The effect of types of banner ad, Web localization, and customer involvement on Internet users' attitudes.

PubMed

Chen, Jengchung Victor; Ross, William H; Yen, David C; Akhapon, Lerdsuwankij

2009-02-01

In this study, three characteristics of Web sites were varied: types of banner ad, Web localization, and involvement in purchasing a product. The dependent variable was attitude toward the site. In laboratory experiments conducted in Thailand and Taiwan, participants browsed versions of a Web site containing different types of banner ads and products. As a within-participants factor, each participant browsed both a standardized English-language Web site and a localized Web site. Results showed that animated (rather than static) banner ads, localized versions (rather than a standardized version) of Web sites, and high (rather than low) product involvement led to favorable attitudes toward the site.

Producing More Persuasive Antiviolence Messages for College Students: Testing the Effects of Framing, Information Sources, and Positive/Negative Fact Appeal

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Yu, Hyunjae

2012-01-01

College students, between the ages of about 18 and 24, are the group of people who are most often exposed to situations involving diverse types of violence. They have greater access to alcohol and drugs and are under far less parental supervision than younger age groups; reports have shown that frequent involvement in several types of violent…

Real Men Do Not Read Labels: The Effects of Masculinity and Involvement on College Students' Food Decisions

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Levi, Annette; Chan, Kenny K.; Pence, Dan

2006-01-01

Consumer literature shows that a decision's degree of personal importance and relevance--one's level of involvement in the decision--indicates which type of intervention strategy will be effective in influencing consumers' choices. The authors surveyed 358 college students at a state university in the western United States to test the…

Adverse Childhood Experiences and the Risk of Criminal Justice Involvement and Victimization Among Homeless Adults With Mental Illness.

PubMed

Edalati, Hanie; Nicholls, Tonia L; Crocker, Anne G; Roy, Laurence; Somers, Julian M; Patterson, Michelle L

2017-12-01

Exposure to adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) is highly prevalent among homeless individuals and is associated with negative consequences during homelessness. This study examined the effect of ACEs on the risk of criminal justice involvement and victimization among homeless individuals with mental illness. The study used baseline data from a demonstration project (At Home/Chez Soi) that provided Housing First and recovery-oriented services to homeless adults with mental illness. The sample was recruited from five Canadian cities and included participants who provided valid responses on an ACEs questionnaire (N=1,888). Fifty percent reported more than four types of ACE, 19% reported three or four types, 19% reported one or two, and 12% reported none. Rates of criminal justice involvement and victimization were significantly higher among those with a history of ACEs. For victimization, the association was significant for all ten types of ACE, and for justice involvement, it was significant for seven types. Logistic regression models indicated that the effect of cumulative childhood adversity on the two outcomes was significant regardless of sociodemographic factors, duration of homelessness, and psychiatric diagnosis, with one exception: the relationship between cumulative childhood adversity and criminal justice involvement did not remain significant when the analysis controlled for a diagnosis of posttraumatic stress disorder and substance dependence. Findings support the need for early interventions for at-risk youths and trauma-informed practice and violence prevention policies that specifically target homeless populations.

An updated and expanded meta-analysis of nonresident fathering and child well-being.

PubMed

Adamsons, Kari; Johnson, Sara K

2013-08-01

Since Amato and Gilbreth's (1999) meta-analysis of nonresident father involvement and child well-being, nonmarital childbirths and nonresident father involvement both have increased. The unknown implications of such changes motivated the present study, a meta-analytic review of 52 studies of nonresident father involvement and child well-being. Consistent with Amato and Gilbreth, we found that positive forms of involvement were associated with benefits for children, with a small but statistically significant effect size. Amounts of father-child contact and financial provision, however, were not associated with child well-being. Going beyond Amato and Gilbreth, we analyzed the associations between different types of fathering and overall child well-being, and between overall father involvement and different types of child well-being. We found that nonresident father involvement was most strongly associated with children's social well-being and also was associated with children's emotional well-being, academic achievement, and behavioral adjustment. The forms of father involvement most strongly associated with child well-being were involvement in child-related activities, having positive father-child relationships, and engaging in multiple forms of involvement. Moderator analyses demonstrated variation in effect sizes based on both study characteristics and demographic variables. We discuss the implications of these findings for policy and practice. © 2013 American Psychological Association

The Effects of Argument Quality and Involvement Type on Attitude Formation and Attitude Change: A Test of Dual-Process and Social Judgment Predictions

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Park, Hee Sun; Levine, Timothy R.; Kingsley Westerman, Catherine Y.; Orfgen, Tierney; Foregger, Sarah

2007-01-01

Involvement has long been theoretically specified as a crucial factor determining the persuasive impact of messages. In social judgment theory, ego-involvement makes people more resistant to persuasion, whereas in dual-process models, high-involvement people are susceptible to persuasion when argument quality is high. It is argued that these…

It's a two-way street: the bidirectional relationship between parenting and delinquency.

PubMed

Gault-Sherman, Martha

2012-02-01

As the primary socializing institution of youth, the family has long been recognized as important for predicting delinquency. Social control theory focuses on the effects of parental behavior on adolescent delinquency but fails to take into account the effect of adolescent delinquency on parental behaviors. This study addresses this problem by estimating eighteen models examining bidirectional relationships between general, property, and violent delinquency and parental attachment, monitoring, and involvement. The magnitude of both parent and child effects were examined using data from 12,505 youth ages twelve to seventeen who participated in the Add Health study. These youth were an average age of 14 and were predominantly white (65%); just over half (50.42%) were female. Cross-lag regressions showed that while parental attachment has an effect on delinquency, an adolescent's delinquency also impacts parental attachment, regardless of the type of delinquency. Findings also revealed no significant parental effects of monitoring or involvement on any type of delinquency, and the only child effects revealed for monitoring or involvement were for involvement, which decreases when overall or property delinquency increases. The findings regarding parental attachment provide strong evidence for the existence of a reciprocal relationship between parenting and delinquency, consistent with the transactional and interactional models of reciprocal parent-child relationships.

Family-focused physical activity, diet and obesity interventions in African-American girls: a systematic review.

PubMed

Barr-Anderson, D J; Adams-Wynn, A W; DiSantis, K I; Kumanyika, S

2013-01-01

Obesity interventions that involve family members may be effective with racial/ethnic minority youth. This review assessed the nature and effectiveness of family involvement in obesity interventions among African-American girls aged 5-18 years, a population group with high rates of obesity. Twenty-six databases were searched between January 2011 and March 2012, yielding 27 obesity pilot or full-length prevention or treatment studies with some degree of family involvement and data specific to African-American girls. Interventions varied in type and level of family involvement, cultural adaptation, delivery format and behaviour change intervention strategies; most targeted parent-child dyads. Some similarities in approach based on family involvement were identified. The use of theoretical perspectives specific to African-American family dynamics was absent. Across all studies, effects on weight-related behaviours were generally promising but often non-significant. Similar conclusions were drawn for weight-related outcomes among the full-length randomized controlled trials. Many strategies appeared promising on face value, but available data did not permit inferences about whether or how best to involve family members in obesity prevention and treatment interventions with African-American girls. Study designs that directly compare different types and levels of family involvement and incorporate relevant theoretical elements may be an important next step. © 2012 The Authors. obesity reviews © 2012 International Association for the Study of Obesity.

The School Psychologist as a Facilitator of Parent Involvement in Decisions Concerning Their Children. An Overview.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lapides, Joseph

Factors influencing decision making are reviewed, and strategies which a school psychologist can use to increase parent involvement in decisions about their handicapped children are delineated. It is explained that four types of interventions are effective in promoting parental involvement: decision counseling, the balance sheet schema to help…

School Involvement of Parents of Linguistic and Racial Minorities and Their Children's Mathematics Performance

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Chang, Mido; Choi, Namok; Kim, Sunha

2015-01-01

The goal of the study was to provide empirical findings on the effects of different types of parents' school involvement (PSI) on their children's mathematics performance. For PSI, we explored parent participation in parent-teacher conferences, voluntary parental involvement in school activities, parent informal contact with school or teachers,…

Thrombin enhances herpes simplex virus infection of cells involving protease-activated receptor 1.

PubMed

Sutherland, M R; Friedman, H M; Pryzdial, E L G

2007-05-01

We have previously shown that the surface of purified herpes family viruses can initiate thrombin production by expressing host-encoded and virus-encoded procoagulant factors. These enable the virus to bypass the normal cell-regulated mechanisms for initiating coagulation, and provide a link between infection and vascular disease. In the current study we investigated why these viruses may have evolved to generate thrombin. Using cytolytic viral plaque assays, the current study examines the effect of thrombin on human umbilical vein endothelial cell (HUVEC) or human foreskin fibroblast (HFF) infection by purified herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV1) and type 2 (HSV2). Demonstrating that the availability of thrombin is an advantage to the virus, purified thrombin added to serum-free inoculation media resulted in up to a 3-fold enhancement of infection depending on the virus strain and cell type. The effect of thrombin on HUVEC infection was generally greater than its effect on HFF. To illustrate the involvement of thrombin produced during inoculation, hirudin was shown to inhibit the infection of each HSV strain, but only when serum containing clotting factors for thrombin production was present in media. The involvement of protease-activated receptor 1 (PAR1) was supported using PAR1-activating peptides in place of thrombin and PAR1-specific antibodies to inhibit the effects of thrombin. These data show that HSV1 and HSV2 initiate thrombin production to increase the susceptibility of cells to infection through a mechanism involving PAR1-mediated cell modulation.

The Effect of Prior Knowledge and Feedback Type Design on Student Achievement and Satisfaction in Introductory Accounting

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Campbell, Donald P.

2013-01-01

This study investigated the effect of student prior knowledge and feedback type on student achievement and satisfaction in an introductory managerial accounting course using computer-based formative assessment tools. The study involved a redesign of the existing Job Order Costing unit using the ADDIE model of instructional design. The…

The rural-urban effect on spatial genetic structure of type II Toxoplasma gondii strains involved in human congenital toxoplasmosis, France, 2002-2009.

PubMed

Ajzenberg, Daniel; Collinet, Frédéric; Aubert, Dominique; Villena, Isabelle; Dardé, Marie-Laure; Devillard, Sébastien

2015-12-01

Congenital toxoplasmosis involves Toxoplasma gondii type II strains in 95% of cases in France. We used spatial principal component analysis (sPCA) and 15 microsatellite markers to investigate the spatial genetic structure of type II strains involved in 240 cases of congenital toxoplasmosis in France from 2002 through 2009. Mailing addresses of patients were geo-referenced a posteriori in decimal degrees and categorized into urban or rural areas of residence. No spatial genetic structure was found for type II strains that infected mothers who were living in urban areas, but a global spatial genetic structure was found for those that infected mothers who were living in a rural environment. Our results suggest that sources of infection by T. gondii are different in rural and urban areas in France, and advocate for targeted messages in the prevention of toxoplasmosis according to the type of residence of susceptible people. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Flow Studies of Decelerators at Supersonic Speeds

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1959-01-01

Wind tunnel tests recorded the effect of decelerators on flow at various supersonic speeds. Rigid parachute models were tested for the effects of porosity, shroud length, and number of shrouds. Flexible model parachutes were tested for effects of porosity and conical-shaped canopy. Ribbon dive brakes on a missile-shaped body were tested for effect of tension cable type and ribbon flare type. The final test involved a plastic sphere on riser lines.

Effective numbers in the partitioning of biological diversity.

PubMed

Gregorius, Hans-Rolf

2016-11-21

Admissible measures of diversity allow specification of the number of types (species, alleles, etc.) that are "effectively" involved in producing the diversity (the "diversity effective number", also referred to as "true diversity") of a community or population. In metacommunities, effective numbers additionally serve in partitioning the total diversity (symbolized by γ) into one component summarizing the diversity within communities (symbolized by α) and an independent component summarizing the differences between communities (symbolized by β). There is growing consensus that the β-component should be treated in terms of an effective number of "distinct" communities in the metacommunity. Yet, the notion of distinctness is shown in the present paper to remain conceptually ambiguous at least with respect to the diversity within the "distinct" communities. To overcome this ambiguity and to provide the means for designing further desirable effective numbers, a new approach is taken that involves a generalized concept of effective number. The approach relies on first specifying the distributional characteristics of partitioning diversity among communities (among which are differentiation, where the same types tend to occur in the same communities, and apportionment, where different types tend to occur in different communities), then developing the indices which measure these characteristics, and finally inferring the effective numbers from these indices. (1) The β-component reflects apportionment characteristics of metacommunity structure and is quantified by the "apportionment effective number" of communities (number of effectively monomorphic communities). Since differentiation between communities arises only as a side effect of apportionment, the common interpretation of the β-component in terms of differentiation is unwarranted. (2) Multiplicative as well as additive methods of partitioning the total type diversity (γ) involve apportionment effective numbers of communities that are based on different apportionment indices. (3) "Differentiation effective numbers" of communities exist but do not conform with the classical concept of partitioning total type diversity into components within and between communities. (4) Differentiation characteristics are measured as effective numbers of distinct types (rather than communities) from the dual perspective, in which the roles of type and community membership are exchanged. This is relevant e.g. in studies of endemism and competitive exclusion. (5) For Shannon-Wiener diversity, all of the differentiation and apportionment effective numbers are equal, with the exception of those representing additive partitioning. (6) Under either perspective, that is dual or non-dual, measures of compositional differentiation (as originally suggested for the assessment of β-diversity) do not figure in the partitioning of total diversity into components, since they do not build on the intrinsic concept of diversity. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Random parameter models of interstate crash frequencies by severity, number of vehicles involved, collision and location type.

PubMed

Venkataraman, Narayan; Ulfarsson, Gudmundur F; Shankar, Venky N

2013-10-01

A nine-year (1999-2007) continuous panel of crash histories on interstates in Washington State, USA, was used to estimate random parameter negative binomial (RPNB) models for various aggregations of crashes. A total of 21 different models were assessed in terms of four ways to aggregate crashes, by: (a) severity, (b) number of vehicles involved, (c) crash type, and by (d) location characteristics. The models within these aggregations include specifications for all severities (property damage only, possible injury, evident injury, disabling injury, and fatality), number of vehicles involved (one-vehicle to five-or-more-vehicle), crash type (sideswipe, same direction, overturn, head-on, fixed object, rear-end, and other), and location types (urban interchange, rural interchange, urban non-interchange, rural non-interchange). A total of 1153 directional road segments comprising of the seven Washington State interstates were analyzed, yielding statistical models of crash frequency based on 10,377 observations. These results suggest that in general there was a significant improvement in log-likelihood when using RPNB compared to a fixed parameter negative binomial baseline model. Heterogeneity effects are most noticeable for lighting type, road curvature, and traffic volume (ADT). Median lighting or right-side lighting are linked to increased crash frequencies in many models for more than half of the road segments compared to both-sides lighting. Both-sides lighting thereby appears to generally lead to a safety improvement. Traffic volume has a random parameter but the effect is always toward increasing crash frequencies as expected. However that the effect is random shows that the effect of traffic volume on crash frequency is complex and varies by road segment. The number of lanes has a random parameter effect only in the interchange type models. The results show that road segment-specific insights into crash frequency occurrence can lead to improved design policy and project prioritization. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Pituitary adenylate cyclase activating polypeptide reduces A-type K+ currents and caspase activity in cultured adult mouse olfactory neurons.

PubMed

Han, P; Lucero, M T

2005-01-01

Pituitary adenylate cyclase activating polypeptide has been shown to reduce apoptosis in neonatal cerebellar and olfactory receptor neurons, however the underlying mechanisms have not been elucidated. In addition, the neuroprotective effects of pituitary adenylate cyclase activating polypeptide have not been examined in adult tissues. To study the effects of pituitary adenylate cyclase activating polypeptide on neurons in apoptosis, we measured caspase activation in adult olfactory receptor neurons in vitro. Interestingly, we found that the protective effects of pituitary adenylate cyclase activating polypeptide were related to the absence of a 4-aminopyridine (IC50=144 microM) sensitive rapidly inactivating potassium current often referred to as A-type current. In the presence of 40 nM pituitary adenylate cyclase activating polypeptide 38, both A-type current and activated caspases were significantly reduced. A-type current reduction by pituitary adenylate cyclase activating polypeptide was blocked by inhibiting the phospholipase C pathway, but not the adenylyl cyclase pathway. Our observation that 5 mM 4-aminopyridine mimicked the caspase inhibiting effects of pituitary adenylate cyclase activating polypeptide indicates that A-type current is involved in apoptosis. This work contributes to our growing understanding that potassium currents are involved with the activation of caspases to affect the balance between cell life and death.

The Effects of School-Based Parental Involvement on Academic Achievement at the Child and Elementary School Level: A Longitudinal Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Park, Sira; Holloway, Susan D.

2017-01-01

Policymakers view parental involvement (PI) as a crucial component of school reform efforts, but evidence of its effect on student achievement is equivocal. Using the Early Childhood Longitudinal Study-Kindergarten Cohort dataset, we examined the long-term impact on student- and school-level achievement of three types of school-based PI: PI to…

The Effects of Message Summaries on the Immediate Free Recall of Main Points.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Shellen, Wesley N.

This study was designed to test the effects of message summaries on the recall of main points of an informative message. Two different types of summary techniques, a mnemonic and a traditional type, were identified and compared with each other and with a third treatment involving no summaries. One hundred and eleven volunteer subjects were…

Thoracic Endovascular Aortic Repair Combined with Assistant Techniques and Devices for the Treatment of Acute Complicated Stanford Type B Aortic Dissections Involving Aortic Arch.

PubMed

Zhang, Tianhua; Jiang, Weiliang; Lu, Haitao; Liu, Jianfeng

2016-04-01

The present study retrospectively reviewed and evaluated the effectiveness of thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) combined with assistant techniques and devices for the treatment of acute complicated Stanford type B aortic dissections involving aortic arch. Fifty-six patients with acute complicated Stanford type B aortic dissection involving aortic arch were treated with TEVAR combined with hybrid procedure, chimney-graft technique, and branched stent grafts from January 2009 to March 2014. Seventeen patients undergone TEVAR combined with hybrid technique. Technical success was achieved in 94.1% with 5.8% of early mortality. Strokes occurred in a patient developing paraplegia, who completely recovered after lumbar drainage. Cardiocirculatory and pulmonary complications, bypass dysfunction or severe endoleak was not observed. Thirty patients undergone TEVAR combined with chimney technique with 100% technical success rate. Chimney-stent compression was observed in 1 patient, and another bare stent was deployed inside the first one. Three patients (10%) died during the study period. Immediate postoperative type I endoleak was detected in 4 cases (13.3%). TEVAR assisted by Castor branched aortic stent grafts in 9 patients was successful. Mortality during perioperative period and 30 days after TEVAR was null. No serious complications such as strokes, acute myocardial infarction, and ischemia of arms occurred. The results indicate that TEVAR combined with hybrid technique, chimney technique, and branched stent grafts is proven to be a technically feasible and effective treatment for acute complicated Stanford type B aortic dissection involving aortic arch in small cohort. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Effect of Different Types of Small-Group Activities on Students' Conversations

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Young, Krista K.; Talanquer, Vicente

2013-01-01

Teaching reform efforts in chemistry education often involve engaging students in small-group activities of different types. This study focused on the analysis of how activity type affected the nature of group conversations. In particular, we analyzed the small-group conversations of students enrolled in a chemistry course for nonscience majors.…

Using Different Types of Dictionaries for Improving EFL Reading Comprehension and Vocabulary Learning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Alharbi, Majed A.

2016-01-01

This study investigated the effects of monolingual book dictionaries, popup dictionaries, and type-in dictionaries on improving reading comprehension and vocabulary learning in an EFL program. An experimental design involving four groups and a post-test was chosen for the experiment: (1) pop-up dictionary (experimental group 1); (2) type-in…

The relation between perceived parental involvement and academic achievement: the roles of Taiwanese students' academic beliefs and filial piety.

PubMed

Chen, Wei-Wen; Ho, Hsiu-Zu

2012-01-01

The excellent academic performance among East-Asian students has drawn international attention from educators and psychologists. However, the process that underlies student academic achievement for this particular group has rarely been documented. The present study examines how the relation between perceived parental involvement and Taiwanese students' academic achievement is mediated by student academic beliefs (i.e., beliefs about effort, academic self-concept, and perceived control). The study further explores whether this mediating effect varies with types of filial piety. Participants were 468 first-year students from colleges and universities in Taiwan. Multiple-group mediating models were analyzed using structural equation modeling (SEM). Results indicated that, for the Taiwanese sample, students' academic beliefs mediated the relation between perceived parental involvement and academic achievement. Furthermore, the mediational effect was significant for the reciprocal filial type, but not for the authoritarian filial type. The importance of the quality of the parent-child relationship and the internalization process related to children's assumptions of their parents' educational values indicate the need for a contextual view when examining predictors of student academic achievement.

Apathy and Type 2 Diabetes among American Indians: Exploring the Protective Effects of Traditional Cultural Involvement

PubMed Central

Carlson, Amanda E.; Aronson, Benjamin D.; Unzen, Michael; Lewis, Melissa; Benjamin, Gabrielle J.; Walls, Melissa L.

2017-01-01

In this study we examine relationships between traditional cultural factors, apathy, and health-related outcomes among a sample of American Indian adults with type 2 diabetes. Participants completed cross-sectional interviewer-assisted paper and pencil surveys. We tested a proposed model using latent variable path analysis in order to understand the relationships between cultural participation, apathy, frequency of high blood sugar symptoms, and health-related quality of life. The model revealed significant direct effects from cultural participation to apathy, and apathy to both health-related outcomes. No direct effect of cultural participation on either health-related outcome was found; however, cultural participation had a negative indirect effect through apathy on high blood sugar and positive indirect effects on health-related quality of life. This study highlights a potential pathway of cultural involvement to positive diabetes outcomes. PMID:28529223

Longitudinal Trajectories of Parental Involvement in Type 1 Diabetes and Adolescents’ Adherence

PubMed Central

King, Pamela S.; Berg, Cynthia A.; Butner, Jonathan; Butler, Jorie M.; Wiebe, Deborah J.

2016-01-01

Objective The purpose of this study was to examine longitudinal trajectories of parental involvement and adolescent adherence to the Type 1 diabetes regimen, to determine whether changes in multiple facets of parental involvement over time predicted subsequent changes in adolescents’ adherence, and to examine whether adolescent self-efficacy mediated the effect of parental involvement on adherence. Method Two hundred fifty-two adolescents (M age = 12.49 years, SD = 1.53; 53.6% females) diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes mellitus, their mothers, and 188 fathers were enrolled in a 2.5-year longitudinal study. Across 5 time points, up to 252 adolescents and their parents completed measures of adherence, parental involvement (diabetes monitoring, behavioral involvement in diabetes management, and acceptance), and adolescent diabetes self-efficacy. Results Using multilevel modeling, analyses indicated significant average declines over time in adherence and most indicators of parental involvement. Lagged multilevel models indicated that declines in mothers’ and fathers’ acceptance and diabetes monitoring predicted subsequent declines in adolescents’ adherence. Additional analyses revealed that longitudinal associations between both maternal acceptance and diabetes monitoring and subsequent adolescent adherence were mediated by adolescents’ self-efficacy. Conclusions Results of this study, which were largely consistent across reporters, highlight the importance of maintaining parental involvement in diabetes across adolescence and suggest that parental involvement is beneficial for adolescents’ adherence, in part, because it contributes to higher self-efficacy for diabetes management among adolescents. PMID:23795709

Pathways from childhood maltreatment to emerging adulthood: investigating trauma-mediated substance use and dating violence outcomes among child protective services-involved youth.

PubMed

Faulkner, Breanne; Goldstein, Abby L; Wekerle, Christine

2014-01-01

Longitudinal survey data were used to examine the relationship between two types of childhood maltreatment, abuse/neglect and exposure to intimate partner violence (IPV), and two outcomes, substance use and dating violence, within the past year. Participants were youth (N = 158, aged 16-19 at Time 3) involved with child protective services (CPS). A parallel multiple mediator model was used to test the hypothesis that trauma symptoms would mediate the relationship between both types of maltreatment and dating violence, marijuana, and alcohol use outcomes. Although both types of maltreatment were not directly associated with dating violence and substance use outcomes, the indirect effects of anxiety, anger, and dissociation on the relationship between maltreatment and substance use/dating violence were significant. Direct effects of both types of maltreatment on past year use of dating violence + alcohol use and dating violence + marijuana use were not significant, but results demonstrated a significant indirect effect for anger on the relationship between exposure to IPV and past year dating violence + marijuana use. No other indirect effects were significant. Findings highlight the negative effects of exposure to IPV and have implications for the development of prevention programming for youth transitioning out of CPS. © The Author(s) 2014.

Types of parental involvement in CBT with anxious youth: a preliminary meta-analysis.

PubMed

Manassis, Katharina; Lee, Trevor Changgun; Bennett, Kathryn; Zhao, Xiu Yan; Mendlowitz, Sandra; Duda, Stephanie; Saini, Michael; Wilansky, Pamela; Baer, Susan; Barrett, Paula; Bodden, Denise; Cobham, Vanessa E; Dadds, Mark R; Flannery-Schroeder, Ellen; Ginsburg, Golda; Heyne, David; Hudson, Jennifer L; Kendall, Philip C; Liber, Juliette; Masia-Warner, Carrie; Nauta, Maaike H; Rapee, Ronald M; Silverman, Wendy; Siqueland, Lynne; Spence, Susan H; Utens, Elisabeth; Wood, Jeffrey J

2014-12-01

Meta-analytic studies have not confirmed that involving parents in cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) for anxious children is therapeutically beneficial. There is also great heterogeneity in the type of parental involvement included. We investigated parental involvement focused on contingency management (CM) and transfer of control (TC) as a potential outcome moderator using a meta-analysis with individual patient data. Investigators of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of CBT for anxious children, identified systematically, were invited to submit their data. Conditions in each RCT were coded based on type of parental involvement in CBT (i.e., low involvement, active involvement without emphasis on CM or TC, active involvement with emphasis on CM or TC). Treatment outcomes were compared using a 1-stage meta-analysis. All cases involved in active treatment (894 of 1,618) were included for subgroup analyses. Across all CBT groups, means of clinical severity, anxiety, and internalizing symptoms significantly decreased posttreatment and were comparable across groups. The group without emphasis on CM or TC showed a higher proportion with posttreatment anxiety diagnoses than the low-involvement group. Between posttreatment and 1-year follow-up, the proportion with anxiety diagnoses significantly decreased in CBT with active parental involvement with emphasis on CM or TC, whereas treatment gains were merely maintained in the other 2 groups. CBT for anxious children is an effective treatment with or without active parental involvement. However, CBT with active parental involvement emphasizing CM or TC may support long-term maintenance of treatment gains. RESULTS should be replicated as additional RCTs are published.

14 CFR 1216.321 - Environmental effects abroad of major Federal actions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... participating with or not otherwise involved in the NASA activity; (3) The export of products or facilities... for Management will provide additional guidance regarding the types of chemical, physical, and biological agents involved. (4) A physical project which, in the U.S., would be prohibited or strictly...

Reading Spoken Words: Orthographic Effects in Auditory Priming

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Chereau, Celine; Gaskell, M. Gareth; Dumay, Nicolas

2007-01-01

Three experiments examined the involvement of orthography in spoken word processing using a task--unimodal auditory priming with offset overlap--taken to reflect activation of prelexical representations. Two types of prime-target relationship were compared; both involved phonological overlap, but only one had a strong orthographic overlap (e.g.,…

Handwriting generates variable visual output to facilitate symbol learning.

PubMed

Li, Julia X; James, Karin H

2016-03-01

Recent research has demonstrated that handwriting practice facilitates letter categorization in young children. The present experiments investigated why handwriting practice facilitates visual categorization by comparing 2 hypotheses: that handwriting exerts its facilitative effect because of the visual-motor production of forms, resulting in a direct link between motor and perceptual systems, or because handwriting produces variable visual instances of a named category in the environment that then changes neural systems. We addressed these issues by measuring performance of 5-year-old children on a categorization task involving novel, Greek symbols across 6 different types of learning conditions: 3 involving visual-motor practice (copying typed symbols independently, tracing typed symbols, tracing handwritten symbols) and 3 involving visual-auditory practice (seeing and saying typed symbols of a single typed font, of variable typed fonts, and of handwritten examples). We could therefore compare visual-motor production with visual perception both of variable and similar forms. Comparisons across the 6 conditions (N = 72) demonstrated that all conditions that involved studying highly variable instances of a symbol facilitated symbol categorization relative to conditions where similar instances of a symbol were learned, regardless of visual-motor production. Therefore, learning perceptually variable instances of a category enhanced performance, suggesting that handwriting facilitates symbol understanding by virtue of its environmental output: supporting the notion of developmental change though brain-body-environment interactions. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved).

Handwriting generates variable visual input to facilitate symbol learning

PubMed Central

Li, Julia X.; James, Karin H.

2015-01-01

Recent research has demonstrated that handwriting practice facilitates letter categorization in young children. The present experiments investigated why handwriting practice facilitates visual categorization by comparing two hypotheses: That handwriting exerts its facilitative effect because of the visual-motor production of forms, resulting in a direct link between motor and perceptual systems, or because handwriting produces variable visual instances of a named category in the environment that then changes neural systems. We addressed these issues by measuring performance of 5 year-old children on a categorization task involving novel, Greek symbols across 6 different types of learning conditions: three involving visual-motor practice (copying typed symbols independently, tracing typed symbols, tracing handwritten symbols) and three involving visual-auditory practice (seeing and saying typed symbols of a single typed font, of variable typed fonts, and of handwritten examples). We could therefore compare visual-motor production with visual perception both of variable and similar forms. Comparisons across the six conditions (N=72) demonstrated that all conditions that involved studying highly variable instances of a symbol facilitated symbol categorization relative to conditions where similar instances of a symbol were learned, regardless of visual-motor production. Therefore, learning perceptually variable instances of a category enhanced performance, suggesting that handwriting facilitates symbol understanding by virtue of its environmental output: supporting the notion of developmental change though brain-body-environment interactions. PMID:26726913

Increased Contextual Fear Conditioning in iNOS Knockout Mice: Additional Evidence for the Involvement of Nitric Oxide in Stress-Related Disorders and Contribution of the Endocannabinoid System

PubMed Central

Gomes, Felipe V.; Silva, Andréia L.; Uliana, Daniela L.; Camargo, Laura H. A.; Guimarães, Francisco S.; Cunha, Fernando Q.; Joca, Sâmia R. L.; Resstel, Leonardo B. M.

2015-01-01

Background: Inducible or neuronal nitric oxide synthase gene deletion increases or decreases anxiety-like behavior in mice, respectively. Since nitric oxide and endocannabinoids interact to modulate defensive behavior, the former effect could involve a compensatory increase in basal brain nitric oxide synthase activity and/or changes in the endocannabinoid system. Thus, we investigated the expression and extinction of contextual fear conditioning of inducible nitric oxide knockout mice and possible involvement of endocannabinoids in these responses. Methods: We evaluated the effects of a preferential neuronal nitric oxide synthase inhibitor, 7-nitroindazol, nitric oxide synthase activity, and mRNA changes of nitrergic and endocannabinoid systems components in the medial prefrontal cortex and hippocampus of wild-type and knockout mice. The effects of URB597, an inhibitor of the fatty acid amide hydrolase enzyme, which metabolizes the endocannabinoid anandamide, WIN55,212-2, a nonselective cannabinoid agonist, and AM281, a selective CB1 antagonist, on contextual fear conditioning were also evaluated. Results: Contextual fear conditioning expression was similar in wild-type and knockout mice, but the latter presented extinction deficits and increased basal nitric oxide synthase activity in the medial prefrontal cortex. 7-Nitroindazol decreased fear expression and facilitated extinction in wild-type and knockout mice. URB597 decreased fear expression in wild-type and facilitated extinction in knockout mice, whereas WIN55,212-2 and AM281 increased it in wild-type mice. Nonconditioned knockout mice showed changes in the mRNA expression of nitrergic and endocannabinoid system components in the medial prefrontal cortex and hippocampus that were modified by fear conditioning. Conclusion: These data reinforce the involvement of the nitric oxide and endocannabinoids (anandamide) in stress-related disorders and point to a deregulation of the endocannabinoid system in situations where nitric oxide signaling is increased. PMID:25618404

Increased Contextual Fear Conditioning in iNOS Knockout Mice: Additional Evidence for the Involvement of Nitric Oxide in Stress-Related Disorders and Contribution of the Endocannabinoid System.

PubMed

Lisboa, Sabrina F; Gomes, Felipe V; Silva, Andréia L; Uliana, Daniela L; Camargo, Laura H A; Guimarães, Francisco S; Cunha, Fernando Q; Joca, Sâmia R L; Resstel, Leonardo B M

2015-01-24

Inducible or neuronal nitric oxide synthase gene deletion increases or decreases anxiety-like behavior in mice, respectively. Since nitric oxide and endocannabinoids interact to modulate defensive behavior, the former effect could involve a compensatory increase in basal brain nitric oxide synthase activity and/or changes in the endocannabinoid system. Thus, we investigated the expression and extinction of contextual fear conditioning of inducible nitric oxide knockout mice and possible involvement of endocannabinoids in these responses. We evaluated the effects of a preferential neuronal nitric oxide synthase inhibitor, 7-nitroindazol, nitric oxide synthase activity, and mRNA changes of nitrergic and endocannabinoid systems components in the medial prefrontal cortex and hippocampus of wild-type and knockout mice. The effects of URB597, an inhibitor of the fatty acid amide hydrolase enzyme, which metabolizes the endocannabinoid anandamide, WIN55,212-2, a nonselective cannabinoid agonist, and AM281, a selective CB1 antagonist, on contextual fear conditioning were also evaluated. Contextual fear conditioning expression was similar in wild-type and knockout mice, but the latter presented extinction deficits and increased basal nitric oxide synthase activity in the medial prefrontal cortex. 7-Nitroindazol decreased fear expression and facilitated extinction in wild-type and knockout mice. URB597 decreased fear expression in wild-type and facilitated extinction in knockout mice, whereas WIN55,212-2 and AM281 increased it in wild-type mice. Nonconditioned knockout mice showed changes in the mRNA expression of nitrergic and endocannabinoid system components in the medial prefrontal cortex and hippocampus that were modified by fear conditioning. These data reinforce the involvement of the nitric oxide and endocannabinoids (anandamide) in stress-related disorders and point to a deregulation of the endocannabinoid system in situations where nitric oxide signaling is increased. © The Author 2015. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of CINP.

Activity-dependent regulation of synaptic strength by PSD-95 in CA1 neurons.

PubMed

Zhang, Peng; Lisman, John E

2012-02-01

CaMKII and PSD-95 are the two most abundant postsynaptic proteins in the postsynaptic density (PSD). Overexpression of either can dramatically increase synaptic strength and saturate long-term potentiation (LTP). To do so, CaMKII must be activated, but the same is not true for PSD-95; expressing wild-type PSD-95 is sufficient. This raises the question of whether PSD-95's effects are simply an equilibrium process [increasing the number of AMPA receptor (AMPAR) slots] or whether activity is somehow involved. To examine this question, we blocked activity in cultured hippocampal slices with TTX and found that the effects of PSD-95 overexpression were greatly reduced. We next studied the type of receptors involved. The effects of PSD-95 were prevented by antagonists of group I metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs) but not by antagonists of ionotropic glutamate receptors. The inhibition of PSD-95-induced strengthening was not simply a result of inhibition of PSD-95 synthesis. To understand the mechanisms involved, we tested the role of CaMKII. Overexpression of a CaMKII inhibitor, CN19, greatly reduced the effect of PSD-95. We conclude that PSD-95 cannot itself increase synaptic strength simply by increasing the number of AMPAR slots; rather, PSD-95's effects on synaptic strength require an activity-dependent process involving mGluR and CaMKII.

Histaminergic Mechanisms for Modulation of Memory Systems

PubMed Central

Köhler, Cristiano André; da Silva, Weber Cláudio; Benetti, Fernando; Bonini, Juliana Sartori

2011-01-01

Encoding for several memory types requires neural changes and the activity of distinct regions across the brain. These areas receive broad projections originating in nuclei located in the brainstem which are capable of modulating the activity of a particular area. The histaminergic system is one of the major modulatory systems, and it regulates basic homeostatic and higher functions including arousal, circadian, and feeding rhythms, and cognition. There is now evidence that histamine can modulate learning in different types of behavioral tasks, but the exact course of modulation and its mechanisms are controversial. In the present paper we review the involvement of the histaminergic system and the effects histaminergic receptor agonists/antagonists have on the performance of tasks associated with the main memory types as well as evidence provided by studies with knockout models. Thus, we aim to summarize the possible effects histamine has on modulation of circuits involved in memory formation. PMID:21876818

P/Q-type and T-type voltage-gated calcium channels are involved in the contraction of mammary and brain blood vessels from hypertensive patients.

PubMed

Thuesen, A D; Lyngsø, K S; Rasmussen, L; Stubbe, J; Skøtt, O; Poulsen, F R; Pedersen, C B; Rasmussen, L M; Hansen, P B L

2017-03-01

Calcium channel blockers are widely used in cardiovascular diseases. Besides L-type channels, T- and P/Q-type calcium channels are involved in the contraction of human renal blood vessels. It was hypothesized that T- and P/Q-type channels are involved in the contraction of human brain and mammary blood vessels. Internal mammary arteries from bypass surgery patients and cerebral arterioles from patients with brain tumours with and without hypertension were tested in a myograph and perfusion set-up. PCR and immunohistochemistry were performed on isolated blood vessels. The P/Q-type antagonist ω-agatoxin IVA (10 -8  mol L -1 ) and the T-type calcium blocker mibefradil (10 -7  mol L -1 ) inhibited KCl depolarization-induced contraction in mammary arteries from hypertensive patients with no effect on blood vessels from normotensive patients. ω-Agatoxin IVA decreased contraction in cerebral arterioles from hypertensive patients. L-type blocker nifedipine abolished the contraction in mammary arteries. PCR analysis showed expression of P/Q-type (Ca v 2.1), T-type (Ca v 3.1 and Ca v 3.2) and L-type (Ca v 1.2) calcium channels in mammary and cerebral arteries. Immunohistochemical labelling of mammary and cerebral arteries revealed the presence of Ca v 2.1 in endothelial and smooth muscle cells. Ca v 3.1 was also detected in mammary arteries. P/Q- and T-type Ca v are present in human internal mammary arteries and in cerebral penetrating arterioles. P/Q- and T-type calcium channels are involved in the contraction of mammary arteries from hypertensive patients but not from normotensive patients. Furthermore, in cerebral arterioles P/Q-type channels importance was restricted to hypertensive patients might lead to that T- and P/Q-type channels could be a new target in hypertensive patients. © 2016 Scandinavian Physiological Society. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Interpretation of quantum yields exceeding unity in photoelectrochemical systems

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

Szklarczyk, M.; Allen, R.E.

1986-10-20

In photoelectrochemical systems involving light shining on a semiconductor interfaced with an electrolyte, the quantum yield as a function of photon frequency ..nu.. is observed to exhibit a peak at h..nu..roughly-equal2E/sub g/, where E/sub g/ is the band gap of the semiconductor. The maximum in this peak is sometimes found to exceed unity. We provide an interpretation involving surface states and inelastic electron-electron scattering. The theory indicates that the effect should be observable for p-type semiconductors, but not n-type.

Acquisition process of typing skill using hierarchical materials in the Japanese language.

PubMed

Ashitaka, Yuki; Shimada, Hiroyuki

2014-08-01

In the present study, using a new keyboard layout with only eight keys, we conducted typing training for unskilled typists. In this task, Japanese college students received training in typing words consisting of a pair of hiragana characters with four keystrokes, using the alphabetic input method, while keeping the association between the keys and typists' finger movements; the task was constructed so that chunking was readily available. We manipulated the association between the hiragana characters and alphabet letters (hierarchical materials: overlapped and nonoverlapped mappings). Our alphabet letter materials corresponded to the regular order within each hiragana word (within the four letters, the first and third referred to consonants, and the second and fourth referred to vowels). Only the interkeystroke intervals involved in the initiation of typing vowel letters showed an overlapping effect, which revealed that the effect was markedly large only during the early period of skill development (the effect for the overlapped mapping being larger than that for the nonoverlapped mapping), but that it had diminished by the time of late training. Conversely, the response time and the third interkeystroke interval, which are both involved in the latency of typing a consonant letter, did not reveal an overlapped effect, suggesting that chunking might be useful with hiragana characters rather than hiragana words. These results are discussed in terms of the fan effect and skill acquisition. Furthermore, we discuss whether there is a need for further research on unskilled and skilled Japanese typists.

Cost effectiveness of group follow-up after structured education for type 1 diabetes: a cluster randomised controlled trial.

PubMed

Gillespie, Paddy; O'Shea, Eamon; O'Hara, Mary Clare; Dinneen, Sean F

2014-06-14

This study examines the cost effectiveness of group follow-up after participation in the Dose Adjustment for Normal Eating (DAFNE) structured education programme for type 1 diabetes. Economic evaluation conducted alongside a cluster randomised controlled trial involving 437 adults with type 1 diabetes in Ireland. Group follow-up involved two group education 'booster' sessions post-DAFNE. Individual follow-up involved two standard one-to-one hospital clinic visits. Incremental costs, quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) gained and cost effectiveness were estimated at 18 months. Uncertainty was explored using sensitivity analysis and by estimating cost effectiveness acceptability curves. Group follow-up was associated with a mean reduction in QALYs gained of 0.04 per patient (P value, 0.052; 95% CI, -0.08 to 0.01, intra-class correlation (ICC), 0.033) and a mean reduction in total healthcare costs of €772 (P value, 0.020; 95% CI, -1,415 to -128: ICC, 0.016) per patient. At alternative threshold values of €5,000, €15,000, €25,000, €35,000, and €45,000, the probability of group follow-up being cost effective was estimated to be 1.000, 0.762, 0.204, 0.078, and 0.033 respectively. The results do not support implementation of group follow-up as the sole means of follow-up post-DAFNE. Given the reported cost savings, future studies should explore the cost effectiveness of alternative models of group care for diabetes. Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN79759174 (assigned: 9 February 2007).

DEPTOR-related mTOR suppression is involved in metformin's anti-cancer action in human liver cancer cells

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

Obara, Akio; Fujita, Yoshihito; Abudukadier, Abulizi

Metformin, one of the most commonly used drugs for patients with type 2 diabetes, recently has received much attention regarding its anti-cancer action. It is thought that the suppression of mTOR signaling is involved in metformin's anti-cancer action. Although liver cancer is one of the most responsive types of cancer for reduction of incidence by metformin, the molecular mechanism of the suppression of mTOR in liver remains unknown. In this study, we investigated the mechanism of the suppressing effect of metformin on mTOR signaling and cell proliferation using human liver cancer cells. Metformin suppressed phosphorylation of p70-S6 kinase, and ribosomemore » protein S6, downstream targets of mTOR, and suppressed cell proliferation. We found that DEPTOR, an endogenous substrate of mTOR suppression, is involved in the suppressing effect of metformin on mTOR signaling and cell proliferation in human liver cancer cells. Metformin increases the protein levels of DEPTOR, intensifies binding to mTOR, and exerts a suppressing effect on mTOR signaling. This increasing effect of DEPTOR by metformin is regulated by the proteasome degradation system; the suppressing effect of metformin on mTOR signaling and cell proliferation is in a DEPTOR-dependent manner. Furthermore, metformin exerts a suppressing effect on proteasome activity, DEPTOR-related mTOR signaling, and cell proliferation in an AMPK-dependent manner. We conclude that DEPTOR-related mTOR suppression is involved in metformin's anti-cancer action in liver, and could be a novel target for anti-cancer therapy. - Highlights: • We elucidated a novel pathway of metformin's anti-cancer action in HCC cells. • DEPTOR is involved in the suppressing effect of metformin on mTOR signaling. • Metformin increases DEPTOR protein levels via suppression of proteasome activity. • DEPTOR-related mTOR suppression is involved in metformin's anti-cancer action.« less

For what applications can probability and non-probability sampling be used?

Treesearch

H. T. Schreuder; T. G. Gregoire; J. P. Weyer

2001-01-01

Almost any type of sample has some utility when estimating population quantities. The focus in this paper is to indicate what type or combination of types of sampling can be used in various situations ranging from a sample designed to establish cause-effect or legal challenge to one involving a simple subjective judgment. Several of these methods have little or no...

The Effects of Stroke Type, Locus, and Extent on Long-Term Outcome of Gait Rehabilitation: The LEAPS Experience.

PubMed

Nadeau, Stephen E; Dobkin, Bruce; Wu, Samuel S; Pei, Qinglin; Duncan, Pamela W

2016-08-01

Background Paresis in stroke is largely a result of damage to descending corticospinal and corticobulbar pathways. Recovery of paresis predominantly reflects the impact on the neural consequences of this white matter lesion by reactive neuroplasticity (mechanisms involved in spontaneous recovery) and experience-dependent neuroplasticity, driven by therapy and daily experience. However, both theoretical considerations and empirical data suggest that type of stroke (large vessel distribution/lacunar infarction, hemorrhage), locus and extent of infarction (basal ganglia, right-hemisphere cerebral cortex), and the presence of leukoaraiosis or prior stroke might influence long-term recovery of walking ability. In this secondary analysis based on the 408 participants in the Locomotor Experience Applied Post-Stroke (LEAPS) study database, we seek to address these possibilities. Methods Lesion type, locus, and extent were characterized by the 2 neurologists in the LEAPS trial on the basis of clinical computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging scans. A series of regression models was used to test our hypotheses regarding the effects of lesion type, locus, extent, and laterality on 2- to 12-month change in gait speed, controlling for baseline gait speed, age, and Berg Balance Scale score. Results Gait speed change at 1 year was significantly reduced in participants with basal ganglia involvement and prior stroke. There was a trend toward reduction of gait speed change in participants with lacunar infarctions. The presence of right-hemisphere cortical involvement had no significant impact on outcome. Conclusions Type, locus, and extent of lesion, and the loss of substrate for neuroplastic effect as a result of prior stroke may affect long-term outcome of rehabilitation of hemiparetic gait. © The Author(s) 2015.

Regulation of Human Skin Pigmentation in situ by Repetitive UV Exposure – Molecular Characterization of Responses to UVA and/or UVB

PubMed Central

Choi, Wonseon; Miyamura, Yoshinori; Wolber, Rainer; Smuda, Christoph; Reinhold, William; Liu, Hongfang; Kolbe, Ludger; Hearing, Vincent J.

2012-01-01

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a major environmental factor that affects pigmentation in human skin and can eventually result in various types of UV-induced skin cancers. The effects of various wavelengths of UV on melanocytes and other types of skin cells in culture have been studied but little is known about gene expression patterns in situ following in situe exposure of human skin to different types of UV (UVA and/or UVB). Paracrine factors expressed by keratinocytes and/or fibroblasts that affect skin pigmentation might be regulated differently by UV, as might their corresponding receptors expressed on melanocytes. To test the hypothesis that different mechanisms are involved in the pigmentary responses of the skin to different types of UV, we used immunohistochemical and whole human genome microarray analyses to characterize human skin in situ to examine how melanocyte-specific proteins and paracrine melanogenic factors are regulated by repetitive exposure to different types of UV compared with unexposed skin as a control. The results show that gene expression patterns induced by UVA or UVB are distinct, UVB eliciting dramatic increases in a large number of genes involved in pigmentation as well as in other cellular functions, while UVA had little or no effect on those. The expression patterns characterize the distinct responses of the skin to UVA or UVB, and identify several potential previously unidentified factors involved in UV-induced responses of human skin. PMID:20147966

Functional and pharmacological consequences of the distribution of voltage-gated calcium channels in the renal blood vessels.

PubMed

Hansen, P B L

2013-04-01

Calcium channel blockers are widely used to treat hypertension because they inhibit voltage-gated calcium channels that mediate transmembrane calcium influx in, for example, vascular smooth muscle and cardiomyocytes. The calcium channel family consists of several subfamilies, of which the L-type is usually associated with vascular contractility. However, the L-, T- and P-/Q-types of calcium channels are present in the renal vasculature and are differentially involved in controlling vascular contractility, thereby contributing to regulation of kidney function and blood pressure. In the preglomerular vascular bed, all the three channel families are present. However, the T-type channel is the only channel in cortical efferent arterioles which is in contrast to the juxtamedullary efferent arteriole, and that leads to diverse functional effects of L- and T-type channel inhibition. Furthermore, by different mechanisms, T-type channels may contribute to both constriction and dilation of the arterioles. Finally, P-/Q-type channels are involved in the regulation of human intrarenal arterial contractility. The calcium blockers used in the clinic affect not only L-type but also P-/Q- and T-type channels. Therefore, the distinct effect obtained by inhibiting a given subtype or set of channels under experimental settings should be considered when choosing a calcium blocker for treatment. T-type channels seem to be crucial for regulating the GFR and the filtration fraction. Use of blockers is expected to lead to preferential efferent vasodilation, reduction of glomerular pressure and proteinuria. Therefore, renovascular T-type channels might provide novel therapeutic targets, and may have superior renoprotective effects compared to conventional calcium blockers. Acta Physiologica © 2013 Scandinavian Physiological Society.

Which Type of Risk Information to Use for Whom? Moderating Role of Outcome-Relevant Involvement in the Effects of Statistical and Exemplified Risk Information on Risk Perceptions.

PubMed

So, Jiyeon; Jeong, Se-Hoon; Hwang, Yoori

2017-04-01

The extant empirical research examining the effectiveness of statistical and exemplar-based health information is largely inconsistent. Under the premise that the inconsistency may be due to an unacknowledged moderator (O'Keefe, 2002), this study examined a moderating role of outcome-relevant involvement (Johnson & Eagly, 1989) in the effects of statistical and exemplified risk information on risk perception. Consistent with predictions based on elaboration likelihood model (Petty & Cacioppo, 1984), findings from an experiment (N = 237) concerning alcohol consumption risks showed that statistical risk information predicted risk perceptions of individuals with high, rather than low, involvement, while exemplified risk information predicted risk perceptions of those with low, rather than high, involvement. Moreover, statistical risk information contributed to negative attitude toward drinking via increased risk perception only for highly involved individuals, while exemplified risk information influenced the attitude through the same mechanism only for individuals with low involvement. Theoretical and practical implications for health risk communication are discussed.

Health education via mobile text messaging for glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

PubMed

Saffari, Mohsen; Ghanizadeh, Ghader; Koenig, Harold G

2014-12-01

Diabetes type 2 is an increasing problem worldwide that may be managed through education. Text-messaging using a cell phone can assist with self-care. The aim of this study was to systematically review the impact of education through mobile text-messaging on glycemic control. The design was a systematic review with meta-analysis. Five electronic databases were searched to access English studies involving a randomized controlled trial design that used text-messaging educational interventions in patients with type 2 diabetes during an 11-year period (2003-2013). Studies were evaluated using a quality assessment scale adapted from Jadad scale and Cochrane handbook. Extraction of data was carried out by two reviewers. A random-effect model with a standardized mean difference and Hedges's g indices was used for conducting the meta-analysis. Subgroup analyses were conducted and a Funnel plot was used to examine publication bias. Ten studies overall were identified that fulfilled inclusion criteria, involving a total of 960 participants. The mean age of the sample was 52.8 years and majority were females. Data were heterogeneous (I(2)=67.6). Analyses suggested a publication bias based on Egger's regression (P<0.05). HbA1c was reduced significantly in experimental groups compared to control groups (P<0.001). The effect size for glycemic control in studies that used text-messaging only was 44%. For studies that used both text-messaging and Internet, the effect size was 86%. Mobile text-messaging for educating Type 2 diabetics appears to be effective on glycemic control. Further investigations on mobile applications to achieve educational goals involving other diseases are recommended. Copyright © 2014 Primary Care Diabetes Europe. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Coping with treatment-related stress: effects on patient adherence in hemodialysis.

PubMed

Christensen, A J; Benotsch, E G; Wiebe, J S; Lawton, W J

1995-06-01

With a modified version of the Ways of Coping Checklist, the relation of coping to adherence among 57 hemodialysis patients was examined. The association of a particular type of coping to adherence was predicted to depend on the specific type of stressful encounter being considered. As predicted, coping efforts involving planful problem solving were associated with more favorable adherence when used in response to stressors involving a relatively controllable aspect of the hemodialysis context. For less controllable stressors, coping efforts involving emotional self-control were associated with more favorable adherence. The seeking of informational support in response to an uncontrollable encounter was associated with poorer fluid-intake adherence. Confrontive coping was associated with poorer adherence for both high- and low-control situations.

Association between types of involvement in school bullying and different dimensions of anxiety symptoms and the moderating effects of age and gender in Taiwanese adolescents.

PubMed

Yen, Cheng-Fang; Huang, Mei-Feng; Kim, Young Shin; Wang, Peng-Wei; Tang, Tze-Chun; Yeh, Yi-Chun; Lin, Huang-Chi; Liu, Tai-Ling; Wu, Yu-Yu; Yang, Pinchen

2013-04-01

The aims of this cross-sectional study were to examine the associations of various types of school bullying involvement experiences with different dimensions of anxiety symptoms on the Multidimensional Anxiety Scale for Children (MASC) and to examine the moderating effects of gender and age on the associations in Taiwanese adolescent students aged at 11-18. Involvement in passive and physical bullying and belongings snatch and multiple dimensions of anxiety symptoms in 5537 adolescents were determined through use of the self-reported Chinese version of the School Bullying Experience Questionnaire (C-SBEQ) and the Taiwanese version of the MASC, respectively. The associations between four types of bullying involvement and four dimensions of anxiety symptoms and the moderating effects of gender and age were examined using linear mixed model analysis. The results indicated that except for the non-significant association between victimization by verbal and relational bullying and harm avoidance, both victims of verbal and relational bullying and physical bullying and belongings snatch reported more severe anxiety symptoms on all four dimensions of MASC-T than non-bullied subjects. While the perpetrators of verbal and relational bullying reported more severe physical symptoms and social anxiety than did non-perpetrators of verbal and relational bullying, the perpetrators of physical bullying and belongings snatch reported less harm avoidance, social anxiety and separation/panic than did non-perpetrators of physical bullying and belongings snatch. Perpetrator-victims of verbal and relational bullying showed more physical symptoms than those who were pure victims or perpetrators of verbal and relational bullying. Perpetrator-victims of physical bullying and belongings snatch had more social anxiety than those who were pure victims or perpetrators. This study also found that gender and age had the moderating effect on the association between some forms of bullying involvement and some dimensions of anxiety symptoms. The results of this study support the necessity to apply the multi-dimensional scale to evaluate anxiety symptoms in adolescents who are involved in bullying and to take the different directions of association into consideration when developing prevention and intervention programs. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Associations between callous-unemotional traits and various types of involvement in school bullying among adolescents in Taiwan.

PubMed

Wang, Peng-Wei; Hsiao, Ray C; Chen, Li Ming; Sung, Yu-Hsien; Hu, Huei-Fan; Yen, Cheng-Fang

2018-01-15

This study examined associations between callous-unemotional (CU) traits and involvement in school bullying among 613 Taiwanese adolescents. CU traits were determined using the self-reported Chinese versions of the Inventory of Callous and Unemotional Traits (C-ICUT) and the School Bullying Experience Questionnaire (C-SBEQ). The study used logistic regression analysis to assess associations between CU traits and types of involvement in school bullying, with controls for the effect of age, sex, and residential background. Higher levels of the callous trait were positively associated with greater risk of being a victim of physical bullying and belongings snatch, or a perpetrator of verbal, relational and physical bullying and belongings snatch. Higher levels of the unemotional trait were positively associated with greater risk of being a victim of verbal and relational bullying. The uncaring trait had no significant associations with any type of bullying involvement. The role played by CU traits should, therefore, be examined when developing programs to detect and prevent school bullying. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier B.V.

The Nature of Cyberbullying and What We Can Do about It

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Smith, Peter K.

2015-01-01

Cyberbullying is a type of bullying, which in turn is a type of aggression. This paper gives a brief history of research, and discusses definitional issues around cyberbullying, and three challenges facing researchers; it then reviews some basic findings about prevalence, age and gender differences, predictors of involvement, and effects and…

A cell-based fluorescent assay to detect the activity of AB toxins that inhibit protein synthesis

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

AB-type protein toxins, produced by numerous bacterial pathogens and some plants, elicit a cytotoxic effect involving the inhibition of protein synthesis. To develop an improved method to detect the inhibition of protein synthesis by AB-type toxins, the present study characterized a Vero cell line t...

Generating Quitline calls during Australia's National Tobacco Campaign: effects of television advertisement execution and programme placement

PubMed Central

Carroll, T; Rock, B

2003-01-01

Objective: The study sought to measure the relative efficiency of different television advertisements and types of television programmes in which advertisements were placed, in generating calls to Australia's national Quitline. Design: The study entailed an analysis of the number of calls generated to the Quitline relative to the weight of advertising exposure (in target audience rating points (TARPs) for particular television advertisements and for placement of these advertisements in particular types of television programmes. A total of 238 television advertisement placements and 1769 calls to the Quitline were analysed in Sydney and Melbourne. Results: The more graphic "eye" advertisement conveying new information about the association between smoking and macular degeneration leading to blindness was more efficient in generating quitline calls than the "tar" advertisement, which reinforced the message of tar in a smoker's lungs. Combining the health effects advertisements with a quitline modelling advertisement tended to increase the efficiency of generating Quitline calls. Placing advertisements in lower involvement programmes appears to provide greater efficiency in generating Quitline calls than in higher involvement programmes. Conclusions: Tobacco control campaign planners can increase the number of calls to telephone quitlines by assessing the efficiency of particular advertisements to generate such calls. Pairing of health effect and quitline modelling advertisements can increase efficiency in generating calls. Placement of advertisements in lower involvement programme types may increase efficiency in generating Quitline calls. PMID:12878772

Generating Quitline calls during Australia's National Tobacco Campaign: effects of television advertisement execution and programme placement.

PubMed

Carroll, T; Rock, B

2003-09-01

The study sought to measure the relative efficiency of different television advertisements and types of television programmes in which advertisements were placed, in generating calls to Australia's national Quitline. The study entailed an analysis of the number of calls generated to the Quitline relative to the weight of advertising exposure (in target audience rating points (TARPs) for particular television advertisements and for placement of these advertisements in particular types of television programmes. A total of 238 television advertisement placements and 1769 calls to the Quitline were analysed in Sydney and Melbourne. The more graphic "eye" advertisement conveying new information about the association between smoking and macular degeneration leading to blindness was more efficient in generating quitline calls than the "tar" advertisement, which reinforced the message of tar in a smoker's lungs. Combining the health effects advertisements with a quitline modelling advertisement tended to increase the efficiency of generating Quitline calls. Placing advertisements in lower involvement programmes appears to provide greater efficiency in generating Quitline calls than in higher involvement programmes. Tobacco control campaign planners can increase the number of calls to telephone quitlines by assessing the efficiency of particular advertisements to generate such calls. Pairing of health effect and quitline modelling advertisements can increase efficiency in generating calls. Placement of advertisements in lower involvement programme types may increase efficiency in generating Quitline calls.

Pressure-induced depression of synaptic transmission in the cerebellar parallel fibre synapse involves suppression of presynaptic N-type Ca2+ channels.

PubMed

Etzion, Y; Grossman, Y

2000-11-01

High pressure induces CNS hyperexcitability while markedly depressing synaptic transmitter release. We studied the effect of pressure (up to 10.1 MPa) on the parallel fibre (PF) synaptic response in biplanar cerebellar slices of adult guinea pigs. Pressure mildly reduced the PF volley amplitude and to a greater extent depressed the excitatory field postsynaptic potential (fPSP). The depression of the PF volley was noted even at supramaximal stimulus intensities, indicating an effect of pressure on the amplitude of the action potential in each axon. Low concentrations of TTX mimicked the effects of pressure on the PF volley without affecting the fPSP. Application omega-conotoxin GVIA (omega-CgTx) reduced the synaptic efficacy by 34.3+/-2.7%. However, in the presence of omega-CgTx the synaptic depression at pressure was significantly reduced. Reduced Ca2+ entry by application of Cd2+ or low [Ca2+]o did not have a similar influence on the effects of pressure. Application of omega-AGA IVA, omega-AGA TK and Funnel-web spider toxin did not affect the synaptic response in concentrations that usually block P-type Ca2+ channels, whilst the N/P/Q-type blocker omega-conotoxin MVIIC reduced the response to 52.7+/-5.0% indicating the involvement of Q-type channels and R-type channels in the non-N-type fraction of Ca2+ entry. The results demonstrate that N-type Ca2+ channels play a crucial role in the induction of PF synaptic depression at pressure. This finding suggests a coherent mechanism for the induction of CNS hyperexcitability at pressure.

Effects of Treatment Type on Alcohol Consumption Partially Mediated by Alcoholics Anonymous Attendance.

PubMed

Karriker-Jaffe, Katherine J; Klinger, Jamie L; Witbrodt, Jane; Kaskutas, Lee Ann

2018-03-21

As insurance coverage, funding sources and venues for drug and alcohol treatment evolve in the United States, it is important to assess how the type of treatment received may impact long-term outcomes. The current study aims were to examine effects of treatment type on alcohol consumption in the year after treatment intake and to test mediators of effects of treatment type on later alcohol use. Longitudinal data from clients in inpatient and outpatient alcohol treatment programs in California (n = 560) were used in ordinary least squares path analysis adjusting for respondent characteristics typically associated with both treatment completion and alcohol use. The primary outcome was amount of alcohol consumed in the 12 months after treatment entry; hypothesized mediators were treatment duration and participation in Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). Despite higher baseline problem severity and a shorter treatment duration, inpatient clients consumed less alcohol after treatment than outpatient clients (B [95% CI] = -0.95 [-1.67, -0.23]). AA involvement was a significant mediator of the relationship between treatment type and alcohol consumption, with inpatient clients being more involved in AA and also drinking less after treatment than outpatient clients; the bias-corrected bootstrap 95% confidence interval for the indirect effect (B = -0.20) was entirely below zero (-0.43 to -0.05). Outpatient clients may benefit from customized posttreatment recommendations to identify additional resources to assist in the recovery process during the first year after treatment.

P-type Ca2+ channels mediate excitatory and inhibitory synaptic transmitter release in crayfish muscle.

PubMed

Araque, A; Clarac, F; Buño, W

1994-05-10

The toxin fraction (FTX) and peptide omega-Aga-IVA from the venom of the funnel-web spider Agelenopsis aperta, as well as a synthetic analogue of FTX, specifically block the P-type voltage-dependent Ca2+ channel (VDCC). The effects of these toxins on synaptic transmission were studied in the neuromuscular synapses of the crayfish opener muscle, which has a single excitatory and a single inhibitory motoneuron. FTX selectively and reversibly blocked excitatory and inhibitory postsynaptic currents and potentials in a dose-dependent manner. FTX had no effect on (i) resting and postsynaptic membrane conductance, (ii) postsynaptic L-type VDCC, and (iii) both glutamate- and gamma-aminobutyric acid-induced postsynaptic responses. Mean amplitude and frequency of miniature postsynaptic potentials were unchanged by FTX. The postsynaptic VDCC was inhibited by nifedipine, a selective dihydropyridine antagonist of L-type VDCC, whereas synaptic transmission was unaffected. Transmission was also undisturbed by omega-conotoxin, suggesting that N-type VDCCs are not involved. The peptide omega-Aga-IVA blocked excitatory and inhibitory transmission without affecting postsynaptic VDCC. Synaptic transmission was also blocked by synthetic FTX. We conclude that presynaptic P-type VDCCs are involved in both evoked excitatory and inhibitory transmitter release in crayfish neuromuscular synapses.

P-type Ca2+ channels mediate excitatory and inhibitory synaptic transmitter release in crayfish muscle.

PubMed Central

Araque, A; Clarac, F; Buño, W

1994-01-01

The toxin fraction (FTX) and peptide omega-Aga-IVA from the venom of the funnel-web spider Agelenopsis aperta, as well as a synthetic analogue of FTX, specifically block the P-type voltage-dependent Ca2+ channel (VDCC). The effects of these toxins on synaptic transmission were studied in the neuromuscular synapses of the crayfish opener muscle, which has a single excitatory and a single inhibitory motoneuron. FTX selectively and reversibly blocked excitatory and inhibitory postsynaptic currents and potentials in a dose-dependent manner. FTX had no effect on (i) resting and postsynaptic membrane conductance, (ii) postsynaptic L-type VDCC, and (iii) both glutamate- and gamma-aminobutyric acid-induced postsynaptic responses. Mean amplitude and frequency of miniature postsynaptic potentials were unchanged by FTX. The postsynaptic VDCC was inhibited by nifedipine, a selective dihydropyridine antagonist of L-type VDCC, whereas synaptic transmission was unaffected. Transmission was also undisturbed by omega-conotoxin, suggesting that N-type VDCCs are not involved. The peptide omega-Aga-IVA blocked excitatory and inhibitory transmission without affecting postsynaptic VDCC. Synaptic transmission was also blocked by synthetic FTX. We conclude that presynaptic P-type VDCCs are involved in both evoked excitatory and inhibitory transmitter release in crayfish neuromuscular synapses. Images PMID:7910404

Myogenic tone is impaired at low arterial pressure in mice deficient in the low-voltage-activated CaV 3.1 T-type Ca(2+) channel.

PubMed

Björling, K; Morita, H; Olsen, M F; Prodan, A; Hansen, P B; Lory, P; Holstein-Rathlou, N-H; Jensen, L J

2013-04-01

Using mice deficient in the CaV 3.1 T-type Ca(2+) channel, the aim of the present study was to elucidate the molecular identity of non-L-type channels involved in vascular tone regulation in mesenteric arteries and arterioles. We used immunofluorescence microscopy to localize CaV 3.1 channels, patch clamp electrophysiology to test the effects of a putative T-type channel blocker NNC 55-0396 on whole-cell Ca(2+) currents, pressure myography and Ca(2+) imaging to test diameter and Ca(2+) responses of the applied vasoconstrictors, and Q-PCR to check mRNA expression levels of several Ca(2+) handling proteins in wild-type and CaV 3.1(-/-) mice. Our data indicated that CaV 3.1 channels are important for the maintenance of myogenic tone at low pressures (40-80 mm Hg), whereas they are not involved in high-voltage-activated Ca(2+) currents, Ca(2+) entry or vasoconstriction to high KCl in mesenteric arteries and arterioles. Furthermore, we show that NNC 55-0396 is not a specific T-type channel inhibitor, as it potently blocks L-type and non-L-type high-voltage-activated Ca(2+) currents in mouse mesenteric vascular smooth muscle cell. Our data using mice deficient in the CaV 3.1 T-type channel represent new evidence for the involvement of non-L-type channels in arteriolar tone regulation. We showed that CaV 3.1 channels are important for the myogenic tone at low arterial pressure, which is potentially relevant under resting conditions in vivo. Moreover, CaV 3.1 channels are not involved in Ca(2+) entry and vasoconstriction to large depolarization with, for example, high KCl. Finally, we caution against using NNC 55-0396 as a specific T-type channel blocker in native cells expressing high-voltage-activated Ca(2+) channels. Acta Physiologica © 2013 Scandinavian Physiological Society.

Computer-aided analysis of Skylab multispectral scanner data in mountainous terrain for land use, forestry, water resource, and geologic applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hoffer, R. M. (Principal Investigator)

1975-01-01

The author has identified the following significant results. One of the most significant results of this Skylab research involved the geometric correction and overlay of the Skylab multispectral scanner data with the LANDSAT multispectral scanner data, and also with a set of topographic data, including elevation, slope, and aspect. The Skylab S192 multispectral scanner data had distinct differences in noise level of the data in the various wavelength bands. Results of the temporal evaluation of the SL-2 and SL-3 photography were found to be particularly important for proper interpretation of the computer-aided analysis of the SL-2 and SL-3 multispectral scanner data. There was a quality problem involving the ringing effect introduced by digital filtering. The modified clustering technique was found valuable when working with multispectral scanner data involving many wavelength bands and covering large geographic areas. Analysis of the SL-2 scanner data involved classification of major cover types and also forest cover types. Comparison of the results obtained wth Skylab MSS data and LANDSAT MSS data indicated that the improved spectral resolution of the Skylab scanner system enabled a higher classification accuracy to be obtained for forest cover types, although the classification performance for major cover types was not significantly different.

Cost effectiveness of group follow-up after structured education for type 1 diabetes: a cluster randomised controlled trial

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background This study examines the cost effectiveness of group follow-up after participation in the Dose Adjustment for Normal Eating (DAFNE) structured education programme for type 1 diabetes. Methods Economic evaluation conducted alongside a cluster randomised controlled trial involving 437 adults with type 1 diabetes in Ireland. Group follow-up involved two group education ‘booster’ sessions post-DAFNE. Individual follow-up involved two standard one-to-one hospital clinic visits. Incremental costs, quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) gained and cost effectiveness were estimated at 18 months. Uncertainty was explored using sensitivity analysis and by estimating cost effectiveness acceptability curves. Results Group follow-up was associated with a mean reduction in QALYs gained of 0.04 per patient (P value, 0.052; 95% CI, −0.08 to 0.01, intra-class correlation (ICC), 0.033) and a mean reduction in total healthcare costs of €772 (P value, 0.020; 95% CI, −1,415 to −128: ICC, 0.016) per patient. At alternative threshold values of €5,000, €15,000, €25,000, €35,000, and €45,000, the probability of group follow-up being cost effective was estimated to be 1.000, 0.762, 0.204, 0.078, and 0.033 respectively. Conclusions The results do not support implementation of group follow-up as the sole means of follow-up post-DAFNE. Given the reported cost savings, future studies should explore the cost effectiveness of alternative models of group care for diabetes. Trial registration Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN79759174 (assigned: 9 February 2007). PMID:24927851

Multiple bottlenecks in hierarchical control of action sequences: what does "response selection" select in skilled typewriting?

PubMed

Yamaguchi, Motonori; Logan, Gordon D; Li, Vanessa

2013-08-01

Does response selection select words or letters in skilled typewriting? Typing performance involves hierarchically organized control processes: an outer loop that controls word level processing, and an inner loop that controls letter (or keystroke) level processing. The present study addressed whether response selection occurs in the outer loop or the inner loop by using the psychological refractory period (PRP) paradigm in which Task1 required typing single words and Task2 required vocal responses to tones. The number of letters (string length) in the words was manipulated to discriminate selection of words from selection of keystrokes. In Experiment 1, the PRP effect depended on string length of words in Task1, suggesting that response selection occurs in the inner loop. To assess contributions of the outer loop, the influence of string length was examined in a lexical-decision task that also involves word encoding and lexical access (Experiment 2), or to-be-typed words were preexposed so outer-loop processing could finish before typing started (Experiment 3). Response time for Task2 (RT2) did not depend on string length with lexical decision, and RT2 still depended on string length with typing preexposed strings. These results support the inner-loop locus of the PRP effect. In Experiment 4, typing was performed as Task2, and the effect of string length on typing RT interacted with stimulus onset asynchrony superadditively, implying that another bottleneck also exists in the outer loop. We conclude that there are at least two bottleneck processes in skilled typewriting. 2013 APA, all rights reserved

Protease-Activated Receptor 2 Activation Inhibits N-Type Ca2+ Currents in Rat Peripheral Sympathetic Neurons

PubMed Central

Kim, Young-Hwan; Ahn, Duck-Sun; Kim, Myeong Ok; Joeng, Ji-Hyun; Chung, Seungsoo

2014-01-01

The protease-activated receptor (PAR)-2 is highly expressed in endothelial cells and vascular smooth muscle cells. It plays a crucial role in regulating blood pressure via the modulation of peripheral vascular tone. Although several mechanisms have been suggested to explain PAR-2-induced hypotension, the precise mechanism remains to be elucidated. To investigate this possibility, we investigated the effects of PAR-2 activation on N-type Ca2+ currents (ICa-N) in isolated neurons of the celiac ganglion (CG), which is involved in the sympathetic regulation of mesenteric artery vascular tone. PAR-2 agonists irreversibly diminished voltage-gated Ca2+ currents (ICa), measured using the patch-clamp method, in rat CG neurons, whereas thrombin had little effect on ICa. This PAR-2-induced inhibition was almost completely prevented by ω-CgTx, a potent N-type Ca2+ channel blocker, suggesting the involvement of N-type Ca2+ channels in PAR-2-induced inhibition. In addition, PAR-2 agonists inhibited ICa–N in a voltage-independent manner in rat CG neurons. Moreover, PAR-2 agonists reduced action potential (AP) firing frequency as measured using the current-clamp method in rat CG neurons. This inhibition of AP firing induced by PAR-2 agonists was almost completely prevented by ω-CgTx, indicating that PAR-2 activation may regulate the membrane excitability of peripheral sympathetic neurons through modulation of N-type Ca2+ channels. In conclusion, the present findings demonstrate that the activation of PAR-2 suppresses peripheral sympathetic outflow by modulating N-type Ca2+ channel activity, which appears to be involved in PAR-2-induced hypotension, in peripheral sympathetic nerve terminals. PMID:25410909

Temperature Dependence Of Single-Event Effects

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Coss, James R.; Nichols, Donald K.; Smith, Lawrence S.; Huebner, Mark A.; Soli, George A.

1990-01-01

Report describes experimental study of effects of temperature on vulnerability of integrated-circuit memories and other electronic logic devices to single-event effects - spurious bit flips or latch-up in logic state caused by impacts of energetic ions. Involved analysis of data on 14 different device types. In most cases examined, vulnerability to these effects increased or remain constant with temperature.

Making Teamwork Work: Team Knowledge for Team Effectiveness.

PubMed

Guchait, Priyanko; Lei, Puiwa; Tews, Michael J

2016-01-01

This study examined the impact of two types of team knowledge on team effectiveness. The study assessed the impact of taskwork knowledge and teamwork knowledge on team satisfaction and performance. A longitudinal study was conducted with 27 service-management teams involving 178 students in a real-life restaurant setting. Teamwork knowledge was found to impact both team outcomes. Furthermore, team learning behavior was found to mediate the relationships between teamwork knowledge and team outcomes. Educators and managers should therefore ensure these types of knowledge are developed in teams along with learning behavior for maximum effectiveness.

Consumer involvement in systematic reviews of comparative effectiveness research.

PubMed

Kreis, Julia; Puhan, Milo A; Schünemann, Holger J; Dickersin, Kay

2013-12-01

The Institute of Medicine recently recommended that comparative effectiveness research (CER) should involve input from consumers. While systematic reviews are a major component of CER, little is known about consumer involvement. To explore current approaches to involving consumers in US-based and key international organizations and groups conducting or commissioning systematic reviews ('organizations'). In-depth, semi-structured interviews with key informants and review of organizations' websites. Seventeen highly regarded US-based and international (Cochrane Collaboration, Campbell Collaboration) organizations. Organizations that usually involve consumers (seven of 17 in our sample) involve them at a programmatic level in the organization or in individual reviews through one-time consultation or on-going collaboration. For example, consumers may suggest topics, provide input on the key questions of the review, provide comments on draft protocols and reports, serve as co-authors or on an advisory group. Organizations involve different types of consumers (individual patients, consumer advocates, families and caregivers), recruiting them mainly through patient organizations and consumer networks. Some offer training in research methods, and one developed training for researchers on how to involve consumers. Little formal evaluation of the effects of consumer involvement is being carried out. Consumers are currently involved in systematic reviews in a variety of ways and for various reasons. Assessing which approaches are most effective in achieving different aims of consumer involvement is now required to inform future recommendations on consumer involvement in CER. © 2012 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Consumer involvement in systematic reviews of comparative effectiveness research

PubMed Central

Kreis, Julia; Puhan, Milo A.; Schünemann, Holger J.; Dickersin, Kay

2012-01-01

Abstract Background  The Institute of Medicine recently recommended that comparative effectiveness research (CER) should involve input from consumers. While systematic reviews are a major component of CER, little is known about consumer involvement. Objective  To explore current approaches to involving consumers in US‐based and key international organizations and groups conducting or commissioning systematic reviews (‘organizations’). Design  In‐depth, semi‐structured interviews with key informants and review of organizations’ websites. Setting and participants  Seventeen highly regarded US‐based and international (Cochrane Collaboration, Campbell Collaboration) organizations. Results  Organizations that usually involve consumers (seven of 17 in our sample) involve them at a programmatic level in the organization or in individual reviews through one‐time consultation or on‐going collaboration. For example, consumers may suggest topics, provide input on the key questions of the review, provide comments on draft protocols and reports, serve as co‐authors or on an advisory group. Organizations involve different types of consumers (individual patients, consumer advocates, families and caregivers), recruiting them mainly through patient organizations and consumer networks. Some offer training in research methods, and one developed training for researchers on how to involve consumers. Little formal evaluation of the effects of consumer involvement is being carried out. Conclusions  Consumers are currently involved in systematic reviews in a variety of ways and for various reasons. Assessing which approaches are most effective in achieving different aims of consumer involvement is now required to inform future recommendations on consumer involvement in CER. PMID:22390732

Social Disparity of Family Involvement in Hong Kong: Effect of Family Resources and Family Network

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ho, Esther Sui-Chu

2006-01-01

Using data from Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) developed by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), this study examines the social disparity of family involvement. A total of 4,405 students from 140 Hong Kong secondary schools participated in the first cycle of PISA study identifying four types of…

Radiation-induced genomic instability and bystander effects: related inflammatory-type responses to radiation-induced stress and injury? A review.

PubMed

Lorimore, S A; Wright, E G

2003-01-01

To review studies of radiation responses in the haemopoietic system in the context of radiation-induced genomic instability, bystander effects and inflammatory-type processes. There is considerable evidence that cells that themselves are not exposed to ionizing radiation but are the progeny of cells irradiated many cell divisions previously may express a high frequency of gene mutations, chromosomal aberrations and cell death. These effects are collectively known as radiation-induced genomic instability. A second untargeted effect results in non-irradiated cells exhibiting responses typically associated with direct radiation exposure but occurs as a consequence of contact with irradiated cells or by receiving soluble signals from irradiated cells. These effects are collectively known as radiation-induced bystander effects. Reported effects include increases or decreases in damage-inducible and stress-related proteins; increases or decreases in reactive oxygen species, cell death or cell proliferation, and induction of mutations and chromosome aberrations. This array of responses is reminiscent of effects mediated by cytokines and other similar regulatory factors that may involve, but do not necessarily require, gap junction-mediated transfer, have multiple inducers and a variety of context-dependent consequences in different cell systems. That chromosomal instability in haemopoietic cells can be induced by an indirect bystander-type mechanism both in vitro and in vivo provides a potential link between these two untargeted effects and there are radiation responses in vivo consistent with the microenvironment contributing secondary cell damage as a consequence of an inflammatory-type response to radiation-induced injury. Intercellular signalling, production of cytokines and free radicals are features of inflammatory responses that have the potential for both bystander-mediated and persisting damage as well as for conferring a predisposition to malignancy. The induction of bystander effects and instabilities may reflect interrelated aspects of a non-specific inflammatory-type response to radiation-induced stress and injury and be involved in a variety of the pathological consequences of radiation exposures.

Effects of Neutral Toys on Sex-Typed Play in Children with Gender Identity Disorder.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Doering, Robert W.; And Others

The study of typical gender development suggests that both approach and avoidance mechanisms are involved in the eventual display of sex-typed behavior. Some experiments have attempted to demonstrate the independent contribution of these two parameters. Studies suggest that avoidance behavior for cross-sex toys is a useful index of sex-role…

Creating context for the use of DNA adduct data in cancer risk assessment: I. Proposed framework for data organization *

EPA Science Inventory

The assessment of human cancer risk from chemical exposure requires the integration of diverse types of data. Such data involve effects at the cell and tissue levels. This report focuses on the specific utility of one type of data, namely DNA adducts. Emphasis is placed on the ap...

Evaluating the Effectiveness of Community-Based Dementia Care Networks: The Dementia Care Networks' Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lemieux-Charles, Louis; Chambers, Larry W.; Cockerill, Rhonda; Jaglal, Susan; Brazil, Kevin; Cohen, Carole; LeClair, Ken; Dalziel, Bill; Schulman, Barbara

2005-01-01

Purpose: The Dementia Care Networks' Study examined the effectiveness of four community-based, not-for-profit dementia networks. The study involved assessing the relationship between the types of administrative and service-delivery exchanges that occurred among the networked agencies and the network members' perception of the effectiveness of…

The Cost and Effectiveness of School-Based Preventive Dental Care.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Klein, Stephen P.; And Others

1985-01-01

The cost and effectiveness of various types and combinations of school-based preventive dental care procedures were assessed in the National Preventive Dentistry Demonstration Program, a four-year study involving more than 20,000 students, from ten schools nationwide. Communal water fluoridation was reaffirmed as the most cost-effective means of…

Analyzing the Generality of Conflict Adaptation Effects

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Funes, Maria Jesus; Lupianez, Juan; Humphreys, Glyn

2010-01-01

Conflict adaptation effects refer to the reduction of interference when the incongruent stimulus occurs immediately after an incongruent trial, compared with when it occurs after a congruent trial. The present study analyzes the key conditions that lead to adaptation effects that are specific to the type of conflict involved versus those that are…

The "memory kinases": roles of PKC isoforms in signal processing and memory formation.

PubMed

Sun, Miao-Kun; Alkon, Daniel L

2014-01-01

The protein kinase C (PKC) isoforms, which play an essential role in transmembrane signal conduction, can be viewed as a family of "memory kinases." Evidence is emerging that they are critically involved in memory acquisition and maintenance, in addition to their involvement in other functions of cells. Deficits in PKC signal cascades in neurons are one of the earliest abnormalities in the brains of patients suffering from Alzheimer's disease. Their dysfunction is also involved in several other types of memory impairments, including those related to emotion, mental retardation, brain injury, and vascular dementia/ischemic stroke. Inhibition of PKC activity leads to a reduced capacity of many types of learning and memory, but may have therapeutic values in treating substance abuse or aversive memories. PKC activators, on the other hand, have been shown to possess memory-enhancing and antidementia actions. PKC pharmacology may, therefore, represent an attractive area for developing effective cognitive drugs for the treatment of many types of memory disorders and dementias. © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The Hypocholesterolemic Effect of Germinated Brown Rice Involves the Upregulation of the Apolipoprotein A1 and Low-Density Lipoprotein Receptor Genes

PubMed Central

Ismail, Maznah; Omar, Abdul Rahman; Ithnin, Hairuszah

2013-01-01

Germinated brown rice (GBR) is rich in bioactive compounds, which confer GBR with many functional properties. Evidence of its hypocholesterolemic effects is emerging, but the exact mechanisms of action and bioactive compounds involved have not been fully documented. Using type 2 diabetic rats, we studied the effects of white rice, GBR, and brown rice (BR) on lipid profile and on the regulation of selected genes involved in cholesterol metabolism. Our results showed that the upregulation of apolipoprotein A1 and low-density lipoprotein receptor genes was involved in the hypocholesterolemic effects of GBR. Additionally, in vitro studies using HEPG2 cells showed that acylated steryl glycoside, gamma amino butyric acid, and oryzanol and phenolic extracts of GBR contribute to the nutrigenomic regulation of these genes. Transcriptional and nontranscriptional mechanisms are likely involved in the overall hypocholesterolemic effects of GBR suggesting that it may have an impact on the prevention and/or management of hypercholesterolemia due to a wide variety of metabolic perturbations. However, there is need to conduct long-term clinical trials to determine the clinical relevance of the hypocholesterolemic effects of GBR determined through animal studies. PMID:23671850

Cannabinoid-1 (CB1) receptors regulate colonic propulsion by acting at motor neurons within the ascending motor pathways in mouse colon.

PubMed

Sibaev, Andrei; Yüce, Birol; Kemmer, Markus; Van Nassauw, Luc; Broedl, Ulli; Allescher, Hans D; Göke, Burkhard; Timmermans, Jean-Pierre; Storr, Martin

2009-01-01

Cannabinoid-1 (CB(1)) receptors on myenteric neurons are involved in the regulation of intestinal motility. Our aim was to investigate CB(1) receptor involvement in ascending neurotransmission in mouse colon and to characterize the involved structures by functional and morphological means. Presence of the CB(1) receptor was investigated by RT-PCR, and immunohistochemistry was used for colabeling studies. Myenteric reflex responses were initiated by electrical stimulation (ES) at different distances, and junction potentials (JP) were recorded from circular smooth muscle cells by intracellular recording in an unpartitioned and a partitioned recording chamber. In vivo colonic propulsion was tested in wild-type and CB(1)(-/-) mice. Immunostaining with the cytoskeletal marker peripherin showed CB(1) immunoreactivity both on Dogiel type I and type II neurons. Further neurochemical characterization revealed CB(1) on choline acetyltransferase-, calretinin-, and 5-HT-immunopositive myenteric neurons, but nitrergic neurons appeared immunonegative for CB(1) immunostaining. Solitary spindle-shaped CB(1)-immunoreactive cells in between smooth muscle cells lacked specific markers for interstitial cells of Cajal or glial cells. ES elicited neuronally mediated excitatory JP (EJP) and inhibitory JP. Gradual increases in distance resulted in a wave-like EJP with EJP amplitudes being maximal at the location of stimulating electrode 6 and a maximal EJP projection distance of approximately 18 mm. The CB(1) receptor agonist WIN 55,212-2 reduced the amplitude of EJP and was responsible for shortening the oral spreading of the excitatory impulse. In a partitioned chamber, WIN 55,212-2 reduced EJP at the separated oral sites, proving that CB(1) activation inhibits interneuron-mediated neurotransmission. These effects were absent in the presence of the CB(1) antagonist SR141716A, which, when given alone, had no effect. WIN 55,212-2 inhibited colonic propulsion in wild-type mice but not in SR141716A-pretreated wild-type or CB(1)(-/-) mice. Activation of the CB(1) receptor modulates excitatory cholinergic neurotransmission in mouse colon by reducing amplitude and spatial spreading of the ascending electrophysiological impulses. This effect on electrophysiological spreading involves CB(1)-mediated effects on motor neurons and ascending interneurons and is likely to underlie the here reported in vivo reduction in colonic propulsion.

Analyzing the generality of conflict adaptation effects.

PubMed

Funes, Maria Jesús; Lupiáñez, Juan; Humphreys, Glyn

2010-02-01

Conflict adaptation effects refer to the reduction of interference when the incongruent stimulus occurs immediately after an incongruent trial, compared with when it occurs after a congruent trial. The present study analyzes the key conditions that lead to adaptation effects that are specific to the type of conflict involved versus those that are conflict general. In the first 2 experiments, we combined 2 types of conflict for which compatibility arises from clearly different sources in terms of dimensional overlap while keeping the task context constant across conflict types. We found a clear pattern of specificity on conflict adaptation across conflict types. In subsequent experiments, we tested whether this pattern could be accounted in terms of feature integration processes contributing differently to repetition versus alternation of conflict types. The results clearly indicated that feature integration was not key to generating conflict type specificity on conflict adaptation. The data are consistent with there being separate modes of control for different types of cognitive conflict.

Types of social participation and psychological distress in Japanese older adults: A five-year cohort study.

PubMed

Amagasa, Shiho; Fukushima, Noritoshi; Kikuchi, Hiroyuki; Oka, Koichiro; Takamiya, Tomoko; Odagiri, Yuko; Inoue, Shigeru

2017-01-01

The most effective type of social participation against psychological distress in older adults is not well documented. The aim of this study was to examine whether different types of social participation are associated with changes in psychological distress level in older men and women in Japan. Two thousand seven hundred community-dwelling older adults (aged 65-74 years, 50% women) were randomly selected from the resident registry of three cities. Of these, participants who reported social participation and psychological distress level in the baseline survey in 2010 were followed up. Psychological distress was evaluated based on K6 scales at baseline and follow-up (in 2015). Social participation level was examined using question items from the National Health and Nutrition Survey in Japan. Exploratory factor analysis was used to derive the underlying factor structure. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to examine the association between social participation and changes in psychological distress level after adjusting for covariates stratified by both gender and age group or living arrangement. Data from 825 community-dwelling older adults (45.3% women) were analyzed. Social participation was categorized into two types using factor analysis: community involvement (volunteer activities, community events, clubs for the elderly) and individual relationship (friendship, communication with family and friends, hobbies). During the 5-year follow-up, 29.5% of participants reported a deterioration in psychological distress. Higher community involvement was independently associated with lower risk of psychological distress for older women (β = 0.099, p = 0.047), whereas there were no associations with individual relationship for either gender. Furthermore, in older women living with others, higher community involvement was also associated with lower risk of psychological distress (β = 0.110, p = 0.048). Community involvement provides older women with mental health benefits regardless of individual relationship level. Promoting community involvement may be an effective strategy for healthy mental aging.

Our Changing Atmosphere.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Clearing, 1988

1988-01-01

Summarizes what is known about two major variables involved in certain types of chemical pollution that seem to be changing the structure of the Earth's atmosphere. Discusses the greenhouse effect and the ozone layer. (TW)

Red-Light-Running Crashes' Classification, Comparison, and Risk Analysis Based on General Estimates System (GES) Crash Database.

PubMed

Zhang, Yuting; Yan, Xuedong; Li, Xiaomeng; Wu, Jiawei; Dixit, Vinayak V

2018-06-19

Red-light running (RLR) has been identified as one of the prominent contributing factors involved in signalized intersection crashes. In order to reduce RLR crashes, primarily, a better understanding of RLR behavior and crashes is needed. In this study, three RLR crash types were extracted from the general estimates system (GES), including go-straight (GS) RLR vehicle colliding with go-straight non-RLR vehicle, go-straight RLR vehicle colliding with left-turn (LT) non-RLR vehicle, and left-turn RLR vehicle colliding with go-straight non-RLR vehicle. Then, crash features within each crash type scenario were compared, and risk analyses of GS RLR and LT RLR were also conducted. The results indicated that for the GS RLR driver, the speed limit displayed the highest effects on the percentages of GS RLR collision scenarios. For the LT RLR driver, the number of lanes displayed the highest effects on the percentages of LT RLR collision scenarios. Additionally, the drivers who were older than 50 years, distracted, and had a limited view were more likely to be involved in LT RLR accidents. Furthermore, the speeding drivers were more likely to be involved in GS RLR accidents. These findings could give a comprehensive understanding of RLR crash features and propensities for each RLR crash type.

Immunoglobulin Light-Chain Amyloidosis: From Basics to New Developments in Diagnosis, Prognosis and Therapy.

PubMed

Muchtar, Eli; Buadi, Francis K; Dispenzieri, Angela; Gertz, Morie A

2016-01-01

Immunoglobulin amyloid light-chain (AL) amyloidosis is the most common form of systemic amyloidosis, where the culprit amyloidogenic protein is immunoglobulin light chains produced by marrow clonal plasma cells. AL amyloidosis is an infrequent disease, and since presentation is variable and often nonspecific, diagnosis is often delayed. This results in cumulative organ damage and has a negative prognostic effect. AL amyloidosis can also be challenging on the diagnostic level, especially when demonstration of Congo red-positive tissue is not readily obtained. Since as many as 31 known amyloidogenic proteins have been identified to date, determination of the amyloid type is required. While several typing methods are available, mass spectrometry has become the gold standard for amyloid typing. Upon confirming the diagnosis of amyloidosis, a pursuit for organ involvement is essential, with a focus on heart involvement, even in the absence of suggestive symptoms for involvement, as this has both prognostic and treatment implications. Details regarding initial treatment options, including stem cell transplantation, are provided in this review. AL amyloidosis management requires a multidisciplinary approach with careful patient monitoring, as organ impairment has a major effect on morbidity and treatment tolerability until a response to treatment is achieved and recovery emerges. © 2016 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Theory Z and Schools: What Can We Learn from Toyota?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

George, Paul S.

1984-01-01

William Ouchi's 1981 book designates as "Type Z" American firms that effectively combine domestic and Japanese management strategies. Applications of this theory to improving school effectiveness would involve combining in each school the components of vital philosophy, curricular clarity, instructional focus, social organization, and…

Gendered Peer Involvement in Girls with Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia: Effects of Prenatal Androgens, Gendered Activities, and Gender Cognitions.

PubMed

Berenbaum, Sheri A; Beltz, Adriene M; Bryk, Kristina; McHale, Susan

2018-05-01

A key question in understanding gender development concerns the origins of sex segregation. Children's tendencies to interact with same-sex others have been hypothesized to result from gender identity and cognitions, behavioral compatibility, and personal characteristics. We examined whether prenatal androgen exposure was related to time spent with boys and girls, and how that gendered peer involvement was related to sex-typed activities and gender identity and cognitions. We studied 54 girls with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) aged 10-13 years varying in degree of prenatal androgen exposure: 40 girls with classical CAH (C-CAH) exposed to high prenatal androgens and 14 girls with non-classical CAH (NC-CAH) exposed to low, female-typical, prenatal androgens. Home interviews and questionnaires provided assessments of gendered activity interests and participation, gender identity, and gender cognitions. Daily phone calls over 7 days assessed time spent in gendered activities and with peers. Girls with both C-CAH and NC-CAH interacted more with girls than with boys, with no significant group differences. The groups did not differ significantly in gender identity or gender cognitions, but girls with C-CAH spent more time in male-typed activities and less time in female-typed activities than did girls with NC-CAH. Time spent with girls reflected direct effects of gender identity/cognitions and gender-typed activities, and an indirect effect of prenatal androgens (CAH type) through gender-typed activities. Our results extend findings that prenatal androgens differentially affect gendered characteristics and that gendered peer interactions reflect combined effects of behavioral compatibility and feelings and cognitions about gender. The study also shows the value of natural experiments for testing hypotheses about gender development.

3,5,6,7,8,3',4'-Heptamethoxyflavone, a Citrus Flavonoid, Inhibits Collagenase Activity and Induces Type I Procollagen Synthesis in HDFn Cells.

PubMed

Kim, Hong-Il; Jeong, Yong-Un; Kim, Jong-Hyeon; Park, Young-Jin

2018-02-22

Citrus fruits contain various types of flavonoids with powerful anti-aging and photoprotective effects on the skin, and have thus been attracting attention as potential, efficacious skincare agents. Here, we aimed to investigate the chemical composition of Citrus unshiu and its protective effects on photoaging. We isolated and identified a bioactive compound, 3,5,6,7,8,3',4'-heptamethoxyflavone (HMF), from C. unshiu peels using ethanol extraction and hexane fractionation. HMF inhibited collagenase activity and increased type I procollagen content in UV-induced human dermal fibroblast neonatal (HDFn) cells. HMF also suppressed the expression of matrix metalloproteinases 1 (MMP-1) and induced the expression of type I procollagen protein in UV-induced HDFn cells. Additionally, HMF inhibited ultraviolet B (UVB)-induced phosphorylation of the mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) cascade signaling components-ERK, JNK, and c-Jun-which are involved in the induction of MMP-1 expression. Furthermore, HMF affected the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway, which is involved in the regulation of type I procollagen expression. In particular, HMF induced Smad3 protein expression and suppressed Smad7 protein expression in UV-induced HDFn cells in a dose-dependent manner. These findings suggest a role for Citrus unshiu in the preparation of skincare products in future.

Food and value motivation: Linking consumer affinities to different types of food products.

PubMed

de Boer, Joop; Schösler, Hanna

2016-08-01

This study uses the consumer affinity concept to examine the multiple motives that may shape consumers' relationships with food. The concept was applied in a study on four broad product types in the Netherlands, which cover a wide range of the market and may each appeal to consumers with different affinities towards foods. These product types may be denoted as 'conventional', 'efficient', 'gourmet' and 'pure'. A comparative analysis, based on Higgins' Regulatory Focus Theory, was performed to examine whether food-related value motivations could explain different consumer affinities for these product types. The affinities of consumers were measured by means of a non-verbal, visual presentation of four samples of food products in a nationwide survey (n = 742) among consumers who were all involved in food purchasing and/or cooking. The affinities found could be predicted fairly well from a number of self-descriptions relating to food and eating, which expressed different combinations of type of value motivation and involvement with food. The analysis demonstrated the contrasting role of high and low involvement as well as the potential complementarity of promotion- and prevention-focused value motivation. It is suggested that knowledge of the relationships between product types, consumer affinities and value motivation can help improve the effectiveness of interventions that seek to promote healthy and sustainable diets in developed countries. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Parental Engagement Using Effective Communication for K-2 Students in an Urban School

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bradley, Lynn Renee'

2013-01-01

Parental involvement is a factor in student achievement. Low parental engagement at home and school has created a problem in an urban elementary school. Guided by Epstein's 6 types of parental involvement, the purpose of this case study was to examine and describe the perspectives of 17 parents of K-2 students in an urban school in Michigan. Few…

Understanding the Direct Involvement of Parents in Policy Development and School Activities in a Primary School

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tobin, Bernie

2017-01-01

It is acknowledged that parental engagement with children's learning and education is of vital importance. But, there is a tendency to confuse engagement with learning with engagement with the school. While all types of parents' involvement can have a positive effect, it is actually what parents do with their child at home that has the greatest…

Effect of type and location of oil groove on the performance of journal bearings

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vijayaraghavan, D.; Keith, T. G., Jr.

1992-01-01

A numerical study is performed of oil groove type (circumferential and axial), groove number (single and double) and groove location on journal bearing performance. The analysis involves the use of a cavitation algorithm. The interaction between cavitation phenomena and grooving is determined. Quantitative information is provided which will aid designers to better locate oil feed grooves.

Some effects of external stores on the static stability of fighter airplanes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Spearman, M. L.

1972-01-01

Fighter airplanes may have a seemingly limitless number of external store arrangements. Some practical considerations and some aerodynamic considerations must be taken into account in the arrangements of the external stores. The nature of the problems concerning the type of store arrangement involved and the type of airplane on which the stores are installed are reported.

The Cost and Effectiveness of School-Based Preventive Dental Care.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Klein, Stephen P.; And Others

The National Preventive Dentistry Demonstration Program assessed the cost and effectiveness of various types and combinations of school-based preventive dental care procedures. The program involved 20,052 first, second, and fifth graders from five fluoridated and five non-fluoridated communities. These children were examined at baseline and…

Comparison of the Effects of Episodic Organizers and Traditional Notetaking on Story Recall. Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Denner, Peter R.

Since the precise nature of the effects of notetaking encoding has not been clearly specified, a study involving 111 suburban seventh graders (southeastern Idaho) explored the differential effects of traditional notetaking and of episodic organizers (a type of semantic web or map) on the encoding of complex narrative passages. Subjects were…

Self-management of type 2 diabetes in gulf cooperation council countries: A systematic review.

PubMed

Al Slamah, Thamer; Nicholl, Barbara I; Alslail, Fatima Y; Melville, Craig A

2017-01-01

This study aimed to systematically review intervention studies on self-management of type 2 diabetes in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries to determine the most effective self-management strategies for individuals with type 2 diabetes in this region. A search strategy was developed using multiple databases: Medline and Embase (via Ovid), CINAHL (via EBSCO), and PubMed. Study and intervention characteristics, intervention structure, content, cultural adaptation, and outcomes were extracted from the included studies. To be included in the review the studies should have met the following criteria: have examined the effectiveness of at least one intervention involving a type 2 DSME programme, have involved participants over 18 years old diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, have taken place to in a GCC country, have a study design that was observational, quasi-experimental or controlled, have reported at least one individual and have a quantitative outcome. A narrative data synthesis was used to describe the studies and comment on their methodological quality. Of the 737 retrieved papers, only eight met the inclusion criteria. Only one study was a randomised controlled trial. A statistically significant improvement in HbA1c was reported in five of the eight studies. There was a significant improvement in physical activity levels as reported in four of the eight studies. Only three studies referred to aspects of cultural design or adaptation of the intervention implemented. Self-management interventions may have a positive impact on HbA1 levels in patients with type 2 diabetes in the GCC area. A greater emphasis placed on culturally appropriate self-management programmes may improve the effectiveness of self-management interventions for adults with type 2 diabetes in the GCC.

Self-management of type 2 diabetes in gulf cooperation council countries: A systematic review

PubMed Central

Nicholl, Barbara I.; Alslail, Fatima Y.; Melville, Craig A.

2017-01-01

Aims This study aimed to systematically review intervention studies on self-management of type 2 diabetes in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries to determine the most effective self-management strategies for individuals with type 2 diabetes in this region. Methods A search strategy was developed using multiple databases: Medline and Embase (via Ovid), CINAHL (via EBSCO), and PubMed. Study and intervention characteristics, intervention structure, content, cultural adaptation, and outcomes were extracted from the included studies. To be included in the review the studies should have met the following criteria: have examined the effectiveness of at least one intervention involving a type 2 DSME programme, have involved participants over 18 years old diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, have taken place to in a GCC country, have a study design that was observational, quasi-experimental or controlled, have reported at least one individual and have a quantitative outcome. A narrative data synthesis was used to describe the studies and comment on their methodological quality. Results Of the 737 retrieved papers, only eight met the inclusion criteria. Only one study was a randomised controlled trial. A statistically significant improvement in HbA1c was reported in five of the eight studies. There was a significant improvement in physical activity levels as reported in four of the eight studies. Only three studies referred to aspects of cultural design or adaptation of the intervention implemented. Conclusions Self-management interventions may have a positive impact on HbA1 levels in patients with type 2 diabetes in the GCC area. A greater emphasis placed on culturally appropriate self-management programmes may improve the effectiveness of self-management interventions for adults with type 2 diabetes in the GCC. PMID:29232697

Theory of agent-based market models with controlled levels of greed and anxiety

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Papadopoulos, P.; Coolen, A. C. C.

2010-01-01

We use generating functional analysis to study minority-game-type market models with generalized strategy valuation updates that control the psychology of agents' actions. The agents' choice between trend-following and contrarian trading, and their vigor in each, depends on the overall state of the market. Even in 'fake history' models, the theory now involves an effective overall bid process (coupled to the effective agent process) which can exhibit profound remanence effects and new phase transitions. For some models the bid process can be solved directly, others require Maxwell-construction-type approximations.

Role of N-type calcium channels in autonomic neurotransmission in guineapig isolated left atria

PubMed Central

Serone, Adrian P; Angus, James A

1999-01-01

Calcium entry via neuronal calcium channels is essential for the process of neurotransmission. We investigated the calcium channel subtypes involved in the operation of cardiac autonomic neurotransmission by examining the effects of selective calcium channel blockers on the inotropic responses to electrical field stimulation (EFS) of driven (4 Hz) guineapig isolated left atria. In this tissue, a previous report (Hong & Chang, 1995) found no evidence for N-type channels involved in the vagal negative inotropic response and only weak involvement in sympathetic responses. The effects of cumulative concentrations of the selective N-type calcium channel blocker, ω-conotoxin GVIA (GVIA; 0.1–10 nM) and the nonselective N-, P/Q-type calcium channel blocker, ω-conotoxin MVIIC (MVIIC; 0.01–10 nM) were examined on the positive (with atropine, 1 μM present) and negative (with propranolol, 1 μM and clonidine, 1 μM present) inotropic responses to EFS (eight trains, each train four pulses per punctate stimulus). GVIA caused complete inhibition of both cardiac vagal and sympathetic inotropic responses to EFS. GVIA was equipotent at inhibiting positive (pIC50 9.29±0.08) and negative (pIC50 9.13±0.17) inotropic responses. MVIIC also mediated complete inhibition of inotropic responses to EFS and was 160 and 85 fold less potent than GVIA at inhibiting positive (pIC50 7.08±0.10) and negative (pIC50 7.20±0.14) inotropic responses, respectively. MVIIC was also equipotent at inhibiting both sympathetic and vagal responses. Our data demonstrates that N-type calcium channels account for all the calcium current required for cardiac autonomic neurotransmission in the guinea-pig isolated left atrium. PMID:10433500

Locomotor Training and Factors Associated with Blood Glucose Regulation After Spinal Cord Injury.

PubMed

Chilibeck, Philip D; Guertin, Pierre A

2017-01-01

Individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI) have increased rates of glucose intolerance, insulin insensitivity, and type II diabetes caused mainly by the deconditioning of paralyzed muscle. The purpose of this systematic review was to determine the effectiveness of locomotor training in individuals with SCI on blood glucose control. We searched studies on locomotor training for individuals with SCI with outcomes of glucose, insulin, or outcomes that could change glucose handling (i.e. increases in muscle mass, shifts in muscle fiber type composition, changes in transport proteins, or enzymes involved in glucose metabolism) in PubMed and EMBASE. Eleven studies (10 with incomplete SCI; 1 with complete SCI) were included in our review. Locomotor training included body weight supported treadmill training (BWSTT) with manual or robotic assistance, with and without functional electrical stimulation (FES), or involved FES-assisted over ground training. Six months of locomotor training in individuals with SCI resulted in significant decreases in glucose (15%) and insulin (33%) areas under the curve during oral glucose tolerance tests. Two to twelve months of locomotor training reversed some of the muscle atrophy - with muscle being the site of most glucose consumption, this is important for glucose control. Training also increased capacity for glucose storage, enzymes involved in glucose phosphorylation (hexokinase) and oxidation (citrate synthase), and glucose transport proteins (GLUT-4). Fiber type composition shifted to a slower fiber type, which favors glucose handling. There were no effects on fat mass. Locomotor training in individuals with SCI (generally an incomplete injury) increases capacity to handle glucose and results in muscular changes that should reduce the risk of type II diabetes. Copyright© Bentham Science Publishers; For any queries, please email at epub@benthamscience.org.

Driver Fusions and Their Implications in the Development and Treatment of Human Cancers.

PubMed

Gao, Qingsong; Liang, Wen-Wei; Foltz, Steven M; Mutharasu, Gnanavel; Jayasinghe, Reyka G; Cao, Song; Liao, Wen-Wei; Reynolds, Sheila M; Wyczalkowski, Matthew A; Yao, Lijun; Yu, Lihua; Sun, Sam Q; Chen, Ken; Lazar, Alexander J; Fields, Ryan C; Wendl, Michael C; Van Tine, Brian A; Vij, Ravi; Chen, Feng; Nykter, Matti; Shmulevich, Ilya; Ding, Li

2018-04-03

Gene fusions represent an important class of somatic alterations in cancer. We systematically investigated fusions in 9,624 tumors across 33 cancer types using multiple fusion calling tools. We identified a total of 25,664 fusions, with a 63% validation rate. Integration of gene expression, copy number, and fusion annotation data revealed that fusions involving oncogenes tend to exhibit increased expression, whereas fusions involving tumor suppressors have the opposite effect. For fusions involving kinases, we found 1,275 with an intact kinase domain, the proportion of which varied significantly across cancer types. Our study suggests that fusions drive the development of 16.5% of cancer cases and function as the sole driver in more than 1% of them. Finally, we identified druggable fusions involving genes such as TMPRSS2, RET, FGFR3, ALK, and ESR1 in 6.0% of cases, and we predicted immunogenic peptides, suggesting that fusions may provide leads for targeted drug and immune therapy. Copyright © 2018 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Modulatory Role of Postsynaptic 5-Hydroxytryptamine Type 1A Receptors in (±)-8-Hydroxy-N,N-dipropyl-2-aminotetralin-Induced Hyperphagia in Mice.

PubMed

Brosda, Jan; Müller, Nadine; Bert, Bettina; Fink, Heidrun

2015-07-15

Brain serotonin (5-HT) is involved in the control of food intake. The ingestive effects of 5-HT are mediated by various receptor subtypes, among others the 5-HT1A receptor. While the involvement of presynaptic 5-HT1A receptors is regarded as certain, the role of postsynaptic 5-HT1A receptors is rather vague. Here, we studied the role of the 5-HT1A receptor on feeding in non-food-deprived and food-deprived (young adult and adult, both sexes) wild-type NMRI mice as well as transgenic NMRI mice, which are characterized by a distinct overexpression of postsynaptic 5-HT1A receptors. The known hyperphagic effect of the 5-HT1A receptor full agonist 8-OH-DPAT ((±)-8-hydroxy-N,N-dipropyl-2-aminotetralin) in non-food-deprived animals was demonstrated in male NMRI wild-type mice and could be antagonized by the selective 5-HT1A receptor antagonist WAY100635. In transgenic mice, this hyperphagic response was induced at lower doses, with an earlier onset and even in females. However, in adult male transgenic mice, the hyperphagic effect did not occur. In food-deprived NMRI wild-type as well as transgenic mice, 8-OH-DPAT first induced a hypophagic and subsequently a hyperphagic effect. Again, in transgenic animals most responses occurred at lower doses and with an earlier onset. The results indicate that postsynaptic 5-HT1A receptors exert a modulatory function in food intake in free-feeding and fasted mice, which for the first time shows an involvement of postsynaptic 5-HT1A receptors in feeding behavior. Understanding the function of pre- and postsynaptic 5-HT1A receptors may help to achieve new insights into the regulation of food intake and foster prospective treatment strategies for eating disorders.

Empathy and involvement in bullying in children and adolescents: a systematic review.

PubMed

van Noorden, Tirza H J; Haselager, Gerbert J T; Cillessen, Antonius H N; Bukowski, William M

2015-03-01

Based on the premise that bullies are deficient in empathy or even lack it completely, bullying prevention and intervention programs often include empathy training. These programs are not always as effective as they aim to be, which may be caused by a failure to acknowledge the multidimensional nature of empathy as well as its complex association with involvement in bullying. To provide a clear overview of the research on the association between empathy and involvement in bullying, this article systematically reviews 40 studies on the association of cognitive empathy (24 studies) and affective empathy (38 studies) with four categories of involvement in bullying: bullying, victimization, defending, and bystanding. The results showed that bullying was negatively associated with cognitive and-in particular-affective empathy. Victimization was negatively associated with cognitive empathy but not with affective empathy. Defending was consistently positively associated with both types of empathy. Contradictory findings were observed in bystanding, with studies reporting both negative and positive associations with cognitive empathy, and studies reporting negative and no associations with affective empathy. Together, the findings stress the importance of the distinction between cognitive and affective empathy in involvement in bullying and suggest different intervention strategies for the four types of involvement in bullying.

CYP2E1-dependent elevation of serum cholesterol, triglycerides, and hepatic bile acids by isoniazid

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

Cheng, Jie; Krausz, Kristopher W.; Li, Feng

Isoniazid is the first-line medication in the prevention and treatment of tuberculosis. Isoniazid is known to have a biphasic effect on the inhibition–induction of CYP2E1 and is also considered to be involved in isoniazid-induced hepatotoxicity. However, the full extent and mechanism of involvement of CYP2E1 in isoniazid-induced hepatotoxicity remain to be thoroughly investigated. In the current study, isoniazid was administered to wild-type and Cyp2e1-null mice to investigate the potential toxicity of isoniazid in vivo. The results revealed that isoniazid caused no hepatotoxicity in wild-type and Cyp2e1-null mice, but produced elevated serum cholesterol and triglycerides, and hepatic bile acids in wild-typemore » mice, as well as decreased abundance of free fatty acids in wild-type mice and not in Cyp2e1-null mice. Metabolomic analysis demonstrated that production of isoniazid metabolites was elevated in wild-type mice along with a higher abundance of bile acids, bile acid metabolites, carnitine and carnitine derivatives; these were not observed in Cyp2e1-null mice. In addition, the enzymes responsible for bile acid synthesis were decreased and proteins involved in bile acid transport were significantly increased in wild-type mice. Lastly, treatment of targeted isoniazid metabolites to wild-type mice led to similar changes in cholesterol, triglycerides and free fatty acids. These findings suggest that while CYP2E1 is not involved in isoniazid-induced hepatotoxicity, while an isoniazid metabolite might play a role in isoniazid-induced cholestasis through enhancement of bile acid accumulation and mitochondria β-oxidation. -- Highlights: ► Isoniazid metabolites were elevated only in wild-type mice. ► Isoniazid caused no hepatotoxicity in wild-type and Cyp2e1-null mice. ► Isoniazid elevated serum cholesterol and triglycerides, and hepatic bile acids. ► Bile acid transporters were significantly decreased in isoniazid-treated mice.« less

Involvement in the US criminal justice system and cost implications for persons treated for schizophrenia.

PubMed

Ascher-Svanum, Haya; Nyhuis, Allen W; Faries, Douglas E; Ball, Daniel E; Kinon, Bruce J

2010-01-28

Individuals with schizophrenia may have a higher risk of encounters with the criminal justice system than the general population, but there are limited data on such encounters and their attendant costs. This study assessed the prevalence of encounters with the criminal justice system, encounter types, and the estimated cost attributable to these encounters in the one-year treatment of persons with schizophrenia. This post-hoc analysis used data from a prospective one-year cost-effectiveness study of persons treated with antipsychotics for schizophrenia and related disorders in the United States. Criminal justice system involvement was assessed using the Schizophrenia Patients Outcome Research Team (PORT) client survey and the victimization subscale of the Lehman Quality of Life Interview (QOLI). Direct cost of criminal justice system involvement was estimated using previously reported costs per type of encounter. Patients with and without involvement were compared on baseline characteristics and direct annual health care and criminal justice system-related costs. Overall, 278 (46%) of 609 participants reported at least 1 criminal justice system encounter. They were more likely to be substance users and less adherent to antipsychotics compared to participants without involvement. The 2 most prevalent types of encounters were being a victim of a crime (67%) and being on parole or probation (26%). The mean annual per-patient cost of involvement was $1,429, translating to 6% of total annual direct health care costs for those with involvement (11% when excluding crime victims). Criminal justice system involvement appears to be prevalent and costly for persons treated for schizophrenia in the United States. Findings highlight the need to better understand the interface between the mental health and the criminal justice systems and the related costs, in personal, societal, and economic terms.

Role of central versus peripheral opioid system in antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory effect of botulinum toxin type A in trigeminal region.

PubMed

Drinovac Vlah, V; Filipović, B; Bach-Rojecky, L; Lacković, Z

2018-03-01

Although botulinum toxin type A (BT-A) is approved for chronic migraine treatment, its site and mechanism of action are still elusive. Recently our group discovered that suppression of CGRP release from dural nerve endings might account for antimigraine action of pericranially injected BT-A. We demonstrated that central antinociceptive effect of BT-A in sciatic region involves endogenous opioid system as well. Here we investigated possible interaction of BT-A with endogenous opioid system within the trigeminal region. In orofacial formalin test we investigated the influence of centrally acting opioid antagonist naltrexone (2 mg/kg, s.c.) versus peripherally acting methylnaltrexone (2 mg/kg, s.c.) on BT-A's (5 U/kg, s.c. into whisker pad) or morphine's (6 mg/kg, s.c.) antinociceptive effect and the effect on dural neurogenic inflammation (DNI). DNI was assessed by Evans blue-plasma protein extravasation. Naltrexone abolished the effect of BT-A on pain and dural plasma protein extravasation, whereas peripherally acting methylnaltrexone did not change either BT-A's effect on pain or its effect on dural extravasation. Naltrexone abolished the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory effects of morphine, as well. However, methylnaltrexone decreased the antinociceptive effect of morphine only partially in the second phase of the test and had no significant effect on morphine-mediated reduction in DNI. Morphine acts on pain in trigeminal region both peripherally and centrally, whereas the effect on dural plasma protein extravasation seems to be only centrally mediated. However, the interaction of BT-A with endogenous opioid system, with consequent inhibition of nociceptive transmission as well as the DNI, occurs primarily centrally. Botulinum toxin type A (BT-A)'s axonal transport and potential transcytosis suggest that its antinociceptive effect might involve diverse neurotransmitters at different sites of trigeminal system. Here we discovered that the reduction in pain and accompanying DNI involves the interaction of BT-A with central endogenous opioid system (probably at the level of trigeminal nucleus caudalis). © 2017 European Pain Federation - EFIC®.

Consumer involvement in dietary guideline development: opinions from European stakeholders.

PubMed

Brown, Kerry A; Hermoso, Maria; Timotijevic, Lada; Barnett, Julie; Lillegaard, Inger Therese L; Řehůřková, Irena; Larrañaga, Ainhoa; Lončarević-Srmić, Azra; Andersen, Lene Frost; Ruprich, Jiří; Fernández-Celemín, Laura; Raats, Monique M

2013-05-01

The involvement of consumers in the development of dietary guidelines has been promoted by national and international bodies. Yet, few best practice guidelines have been established to assist with such involvement. Qualitative semi-structured interviews explored stakeholders' beliefs about consumer involvement in dietary guideline development. Interviews were conducted in six European countries: the Czech Republic, Germany, Norway, Serbia, Spain and the UK. Seventy-seven stakeholders were interviewed. Stakeholders were grouped as government, scientific advisory body, professional and academic, industry or non-government organisations. Response rate ranged from 45 % to 95 %. Thematic analysis was conducted with the assistance of NVivo qualitative software. Analysis identified two main themes: (i) type of consumer involvement and (ii) pros and cons of consumer involvement. Direct consumer involvement (e.g. consumer organisations) in the decision-making process was discussed as a facilitator to guideline communication towards the end of the process. Indirect consumer involvement (e.g. consumer research data) was considered at both the beginning and the end of the process. Cons to consumer involvement included the effect of vested interests on objectivity; consumer disinterest; and complications in terms of time, finance and technical understanding. Pros related to increased credibility and trust in the process. Stakeholders acknowledged benefits to consumer involvement during the development of dietary guidelines, but remained unclear on the advantage of direct contributions to the scientific content of guidelines. In the absence of established best practice, clarity on the type and reasons for consumer involvement would benefit all actors.

THE EFFECTS OF TYPE II BINDING ON METABOLIC STABILITY AND BINDING AFFINITY IN CYTOCHROME P450 CYP3A4

PubMed Central

Peng, Chi-Chi; Pearson, Josh T.; Rock, Dan A.; Joswig-Jones, Carolyn A.; Jones, Jeffrey P.

2010-01-01

One goal in drug design is to decrease clearance due to metabolism. It has been suggested that a compound’s metabolic stability can be increased by incorporation of a sp2 nitrogen into an aromatic ring. Nitrogen incorporation is hypothesized to increase metabolic stability by coordination of nitrogen to the heme iron (termed type II binding). However, questions regarding binding affinity, metabolic stability, and how metabolism of type II binders occurs remain unanswered. Herein, we use pyridinyl quinoline-4-carboxamide analogs to answer these questions. We show that type II binding can have a profound influence on binding affinity for CYP3A4, and the difference in binding affinity can be as high as 1,200 fold. We also find that type II binding compounds can be extensively metabolized, which is not consistent with the dead-end complex kinetic model assumed for type II binders. Two alternate kinetic mechanisms are presented to explain the results. The first involves a rapid equilibrium between the type II bound substrate and a metabolically oriented binding mode. The second involves direct reduction of the nitrogen-coordinated heme followed by oxygen binding. PMID:20346909

The Use of OPAC in a Large Academic Library: A Transactional Log Analysis Study of Subject Searching

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Villen-Rueda, Luis; Senso, Jose A.; de Moya-Anegon, Felix

2007-01-01

The analysis of user searches in catalogs has been the topic of research for over four decades, involving numerous studies and diverse methodologies. The present study looks at how different types of users effect queries in the catalog of a university library. For this purpose, we analyzed log files to determine which was the most frequent type of…

Comparative germination of tree species on various kinds of surface soil material in the western white pine type

Treesearch

George M. Fisher

1935-01-01

In formulating methods for effecting forest regeneration, considerable information is needed as to the germination habits of the species involved. Studies of germination habits have been made for several species in the western white pine type, but heretofore no sufficiently detailed investigation has been made covering the germination habits of all the principal tree...

Lauric Acid Accelerates Glycolytic Muscle Fiber Formation through TLR4 Signaling.

PubMed

Wang, Leshan; Luo, Lv; Zhao, Weijie; Yang, Kelin; Shu, Gang; Wang, Songbo; Gao, Ping; Zhu, Xiaotong; Xi, Qianyun; Zhang, Yongliang; Jiang, Qingyan; Wang, Lina

2018-06-18

Lauric acid (LA), which is the primary fatty acid in coconut oil, was reported to have many metabolic benefits. TLR4 is a common receptor of lipopolysaccharides and involved mainly in inflammation responses. Here, we focused on the effects of LA on skeletal muscle fiber types and metabolism. We found that 200 μM LA treatment in C2C12 or dietary supplementation of 1% LA increased MHCIIb protein expression and the proportion of type IIb muscle fibers from 0.452 ± 0.0165 to 0.572 ± 0.0153, increasing the mRNA expression of genes involved in glycolysis, such as HK2 and LDH2 (from 1.00 ± 0.110 to 1.35 ± 0.0843 and from 1.00 ± 0.123 to 1.71 ± 0.302 in vivo, respectively), decreasing the catalytic activity of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and transforming lactic acid to pyruvic acid. Furthermore, LA activated TLR4 signaling, and TLR4 knockdown reversed the effect of LA on muscle fiber type and glycolysis. Thus, we inferred that LA promoted glycolytic fiber formation through TLR4 signaling.

N- and P-type Ca2+ channels are involved in acetylcholine release at a neuroneuronal synapse: only the N-type channel is the target of neuromodulators.

PubMed Central

Fossier, P; Baux, G; Tauc, L

1994-01-01

Cholinergic transmission in an identified neuro-neuronal synapse of the Aplysia buccal ganglion was depressed by application of a partially purified extract of the funnel-web-spider venom (FTx) or of its synthetic analog (sFTx). This specific blocker of voltage-dependent P-type Ca2+ channels did not interfere with the effect of the N-type Ca2+ channel blocker omega-conotoxin, which could further decrease synaptic transmission after a previous application of FTx. Similar results were obtained when the reversal order of application of these two Ca2+ channel blockers was used. Both P- and N-type Ca2+ currents trigger acetylcholine release in the presynaptic neuron. The neuromodulatory effects of FMRF-amide, histamine, and buccalin on transmitter release disappeared after the blockade of the N-type Ca2+ channels but remained still effective in the presence of FTx. These results indicate that only N-type Ca2+ channels appear to be sensitive to the neuromodulators we have identified. PMID:7910963

N- and P-type Ca2+ channels are involved in acetylcholine release at a neuroneuronal synapse: only the N-type channel is the target of neuromodulators.

PubMed

Fossier, P; Baux, G; Tauc, L

1994-05-24

Cholinergic transmission in an identified neuro-neuronal synapse of the Aplysia buccal ganglion was depressed by application of a partially purified extract of the funnel-web-spider venom (FTx) or of its synthetic analog (sFTx). This specific blocker of voltage-dependent P-type Ca2+ channels did not interfere with the effect of the N-type Ca2+ channel blocker omega-conotoxin, which could further decrease synaptic transmission after a previous application of FTx. Similar results were obtained when the reversal order of application of these two Ca2+ channel blockers was used. Both P- and N-type Ca2+ currents trigger acetylcholine release in the presynaptic neuron. The neuromodulatory effects of FMRF-amide, histamine, and buccalin on transmitter release disappeared after the blockade of the N-type Ca2+ channels but remained still effective in the presence of FTx. These results indicate that only N-type Ca2+ channels appear to be sensitive to the neuromodulators we have identified.

DISE: A Seed-Dependent RNAi Off-Target Effect That Kills Cancer Cells.

PubMed

Putzbach, William; Gao, Quan Q; Patel, Monal; Haluck-Kangas, Ashley; Murmann, Andrea E; Peter, Marcus E

2018-01-01

Off-target effects (OTEs) represent a significant caveat for RNAi caused by substantial complementarity between siRNAs and unintended mRNAs. We now discuss the existence of three types of seed-dependent OTEs (sOTEs). Type I involves unintended targeting through the guide strand seed of an siRNA. Type II is caused by the activity of the seed on the designated siRNA passenger strand when loaded into the RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC). Both type I and II sOTEs will elicit unpredictable cellular responses. By contrast, in sOTE type III the guide strand seed preferentially targets essential survival genes resulting in death induced by survival gene elimination (DISE). In this Opinion article, we discuss DISE as a consequence of RNAi that may preferentially affect cancer cells. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Antiapolipoprotein A-1 IgG chronotropic effects require nongenomic action of aldosterone on L-type calcium channels.

PubMed

Rossier, Michel F; Pagano, Sabrina; Python, Magaly; Maturana, Andres D; James, Richard W; Mach, François; Roux-Lombard, Pascale; Vuilleumier, Nicolas

2012-03-01

Autoantibodies to apolipoprotein A-1 (antiapoA-1 IgG) have been shown to be associated with higher resting heart rate and morbidity in myocardial infarction patients and to behave as a chronotropic agent in the presence of aldosterone on isolated neonatal rat ventricular cardiomyocytes (NRVC). We aimed at identifying the pathways accounting for this aldosterone-dependent antiapoA-1 IgG-positive chronotropic effect on NRVC. The rate of regular spontaneous contractions was determined on NRVC in the presence of different steroid hormones and antagonists. AntiapoA-1 IgG chronotropic response was maximal within 20 min and observed only in aldosterone-pretreated cells but not in those exposed to other steroids. The positive antiapoA-1 IgG chronotropic effect was already significant after 5 min aldosterone preincubation, was dependent on 3-kinase and protein kinase A activities, was not inhibited by actinomycin D, and was fully abrogated by eplerenone (but not by spironolactone), demonstrating the dependence on a nongenomic action of aldosterone elicited through the mineralocorticoid receptor (MR). Under oxidative conditions (but not under normal redox state), corticosterone mimicked the permissive action of aldosterone on the antiapoA-1 IgG chronotropic response. Pharmacological and patch-clamp studies identified L-type calcium channels as crucial effectors of antiapoA-1 IgG chronotropic action, involving two converging pathways that increase the channel activity. The first one involves the rapid, nongenomic activation of the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase enzyme by MR, and the second one requires a constitutive basal protein kinase A activity. In conclusion, our results indicate that, on NRVC, the aldosterone-dependent chronotropic effects of antiapoA-1 IgG involve the nongenomic activation of L-type calcium channels.

Leadership. Using Creative Tension.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cook, David L.

1986-01-01

Leadership involves maintaining a balance of the variables which comprise leadership. Love and fear, types of power, success and effectiveness, and driving and restraining forces are discussed as sources of the creative tension a leader uses to influence others. (MT)

Third-Year High School Mathematics Curriculum: Effects of Content Organization and Curriculum Implementation

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Chávez, Óscar; Tarr, James E.; Grouws, Douglas A.; Soria, Victor M.

2015-01-01

We examined the effect of curriculum organization in US high schools where students could freely choose to study mathematics from textbooks that employed one of two types of content organization, an "integrated" approach or a (traditional) "subject-specific" approach. The study involved 2,242 high school students, enrolled in…

A Naturalistic Alcohol Availability Experiment: Effects on Crime.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kraushaar, Kevin; Alsop, Brent

Previous investigators have looked at many types of criminal offenses in order to determine alcohol involvement in crime. This longitudinal (4-year) naturalistic experimental and control designed study examined the effects of change in alcohol availability on rates of offending in a small provincial region of New Zealand following the closure of…

The Sylvia Plath Effect: Mental Illness in Eminent Creative Writers.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kaufman, James C.

2001-01-01

Two studies involving a total of 2149 writers and other eminent individuals found that female poets were significantly more likely to suffer from mental illness than female fiction writers, than male writers of any type, or than eminent individuals in other fields. This finding has been dubbed the "Sylvia Plath" effect. (Contains…

An Analytic Comparison of Effect Sizes for Differential Item Functioning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Demars, Christine E.

2011-01-01

Three types of effects sizes for DIF are described in this exposition: log of the odds-ratio (differences in log-odds), differences in probability-correct, and proportion of variance accounted for. Using these indices involves conceptualizing the degree of DIF in different ways. This integrative review discusses how these measures are impacted in…

Grounded Learning Experience: Helping Students Learn Physics through Visuo-Haptic Priming and Instruction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huang, Shih-Chieh Douglas

In this dissertation, I investigate the effects of a grounded learning experience on college students' mental models of physics systems. The grounded learning experience consisted of a priming stage and an instruction stage, and within each stage, one of two different types of visuo-haptic representation was applied: visuo-gestural simulation (visual modality and gestures) and visuo-haptic simulation (visual modality, gestures, and somatosensory information). A pilot study involving N = 23 college students examined how using different types of visuo-haptic representation in instruction affected people's mental model construction for physics systems. Participants' abilities to construct mental models were operationalized through their pretest-to-posttest gain scores for a basic physics system and their performance on a transfer task involving an advanced physics system. Findings from this pilot study revealed that, while both simulations significantly improved participants' mental modal construction for physics systems, visuo-haptic simulation was significantly better than visuo-gestural simulation. In addition, clinical interviews suggested that participants' mental model construction for physics systems benefited from receiving visuo-haptic simulation in a tutorial prior to the instruction stage. A dissertation study involving N = 96 college students examined how types of visuo-haptic representation in different applications support participants' mental model construction for physics systems. Participant's abilities to construct mental models were again operationalized through their pretest-to-posttest gain scores for a basic physics system and their performance on a transfer task involving an advanced physics system. Participants' physics misconceptions were also measured before and after the grounded learning experience. Findings from this dissertation study not only revealed that visuo-haptic simulation was significantly more effective in promoting mental model construction and remedying participants' physics misconceptions than visuo-gestural simulation, they also revealed that visuo-haptic simulation was more effective during the priming stage than during the instruction stage. Interestingly, the effects of visuo-haptic simulation in priming and visuo-haptic simulation in instruction on participants' pretest-to-posttest gain scores for a basic physics system appeared additive. These results suggested that visuo-haptic simulation is effective in physics learning, especially when it is used during the priming stage.

Evaluation of an edible blue-green alga, Aphanothece sacrum, for its inhibitory effect on replication of herpes simplex virus type 2 and influenza virus type A.

PubMed

Ogura, Fumie; Hayashi, Kyoko; Lee, Jung-Bum; Kanekiyo, Kenji; Hayashi, Toshimitsu

2010-01-01

A hot-water extract of Aphanothece sacrum, an edible aquacultured blue-green alga, was found to show a remarkable inhibitory effect on the replication of enveloped viruses including herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) and influenza virus type A (IFV-A, H1N1) in vitro. The main active components were suggested to be sulfated polysaccharides in non-dialyzable portion (ASWPH). ASWPH was found to inhibit the viral adsorption to the receptor of the host cells involved in the replication process of HSV-2 and IFV-A. In addition, while the penetration stage of HSV-2 was also significantly suppressed with ASWPH, no such effect was observed in the replication of IFV-A. These results suggest that ASWPH might be useful in the prevention of infectious diseases caused by HSV-2 as well as IFV-A.

Factors associated with involvement in nonmetropolitan LGBTQ organizations: Proximity? Generativity? Minority stress? Social location?

PubMed

Paceley, Megan S; Oswald, Ramona Faith; Hardesty, Jennifer L

2014-01-01

Little is known about involvement in LGBTQ organizations. Factors associated with involvement in nonmetropolitan LGBTQ organizations were examined using logistic regression and survey data from 426 LGBTQ individuals residing in a nonmetropolitan region. Involvement was examined in five types of organizations (professional, social/recreational, religious, political, and community center/charity). The same model testing proximity, generativity, minority stress, and social location hypotheses was repeated for each organization type. Results demonstrate that the generativity hypothesis is most strongly supported. Indeed, emotional attachment to the LGBTQ community significantly increased the odds of involvement in every type of organization. However, the factors associated with involvement otherwise differed by organization type. Implications for organizational leaders are discussed.

Developmental Stage, Muscle and Genetic Type Modify Muscle Transcriptome in Pigs: Effects on Gene Expression and Regulatory Factors Involved in Growth and Metabolism.

PubMed

Ayuso, Miriam; Fernández, Almudena; Núñez, Yolanda; Benítez, Rita; Isabel, Beatriz; Fernández, Ana I; Rey, Ana I; González-Bulnes, Antonio; Medrano, Juan F; Cánovas, Ángela; López-Bote, Clemente J; Óvilo, Cristina

2016-01-01

Iberian pig production includes purebred (IB) and Duroc-crossbred (IBxDU) pigs, which show important differences in growth, fattening and tissue composition. This experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of genetic type and muscle (Longissimus dorsi (LD) vs Biceps femoris (BF)) on gene expression and transcriptional regulation at two developmental stages. Nine IB and 10 IBxDU piglets were slaughtered at birth, and seven IB and 10 IBxDU at four months of age (growing period). Carcass traits and LD intramuscular fat (IMF) content were measured. Muscle transcriptome was analyzed on LD samples with RNA-Seq technology. Carcasses were smaller in IB than in IBxDU neonates (p < 0.001), while growing IB pigs showed greater IMF content (p < 0.05). Gene expression was affected (p < 0.01 and Fold change > 1.5) by the developmental stage (5,812 genes), muscle type (135 genes), and genetic type (261 genes at birth and 113 at growth). Newborns transcriptome reflected a highly proliferative developmental stage, while older pigs showed upregulation of catabolic and muscle functioning processes. Regarding the genetic type effect, IBxDU newborns showed enrichment of gene pathways involved in muscle growth, in agreement with the higher prenatal growth observed in these pigs. However, IB growing pigs showed enrichment of pathways involved in protein deposition and cellular growth, supporting the compensatory gain experienced by IB pigs during this period. Moreover, newborn and growing IB pigs showed more active glucose and lipid metabolism than IBxDU pigs. Moreover, LD muscle seems to have more active muscular and cell growth, while BF points towards lipid metabolism and fat deposition. Several regulators controlling transcriptome changes in both genotypes were identified across muscles and ages (SIM1, PVALB, MEFs, TCF7L2 or FOXO1), being strong candidate genes to drive expression and thus, phenotypic differences between IB and IBxDU pigs. Many of the identified regulators were known to be involved in muscle and adipose tissues development, but others not previously associated with pig muscle growth were also identified, as PVALB, KLF1 or IRF2. The present study discloses potential molecular mechanisms underlying phenotypic differences observed between IB and IBxDU pigs and highlights candidate genes implicated in these molecular mechanisms.

Breadth and depth involvement: Understanding Internet gambling involvement and its relationship to gambling problems.

PubMed

LaPlante, Debi A; Nelson, Sarah E; Gray, Heather M

2014-06-01

The "involvement effect" refers to the finding that controlling for gambling involvement often reduces or eliminates frequently observed game-specific associations with problem gambling. In other words, broader patterns of gambling behavior, particularly the number of types of games played over a defined period, contribute more to problem gambling than playing specific games (e.g., lottery, casino, Internet gambling). This study extends this burgeoning area of inquiry in three primary ways. First, it tests independently and simultaneously the predictive power of two gambling patterns: breadth involvement (i.e., the number of games an individual plays) and depth involvement (i.e., the number of days an individual plays). Second, it includes the first involvement analyses of actual betting activity records that are associated with clinical screening information. Third, it evaluates and compares the linearity of breadth and depth effects. We conducted analyses of the actual gambling activity of 1,440 subscribers to the bwin.party gambling service who completed an online gambling disorder screen. In all, 11 of the 16 games we examined had a significant univariate association with a positive screen for gambling disorder. However, after controlling for breadth involvement, only Live Action Internet sports betting retained a significant relationship with potential gambling-related problems. Depth involvement, though significantly related to potential problems, did not impact game-based gambling disorder associations as much as breadth involvement. Finally, breadth effects appeared steeply linear, with a slight quadratic component manifesting beyond four games played, but depth effects appeared to have a strong linear component and a slight cubic component.

3,5,6,7,8,3′,4′-Heptamethoxyflavone, a Citrus Flavonoid, Inhibits Collagenase Activity and Induces Type I Procollagen Synthesis in HDFn Cells

PubMed Central

Kim, Hong-Il; Jeong, Yong-Un; Kim, Jong-Hyeon

2018-01-01

Citrus fruits contain various types of flavonoids with powerful anti-aging and photoprotective effects on the skin, and have thus been attracting attention as potential, efficacious skincare agents. Here, we aimed to investigate the chemical composition of Citrus unshiu and its protective effects on photoaging. We isolated and identified a bioactive compound, 3,5,6,7,8,3′,4′-heptamethoxyflavone (HMF), from C. unshiu peels using ethanol extraction and hexane fractionation. HMF inhibited collagenase activity and increased type I procollagen content in UV-induced human dermal fibroblast neonatal (HDFn) cells. HMF also suppressed the expression of matrix metalloproteinases 1 (MMP-1) and induced the expression of type I procollagen protein in UV-induced HDFn cells. Additionally, HMF inhibited ultraviolet B (UVB)-induced phosphorylation of the mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) cascade signaling components—ERK, JNK, and c-Jun—which are involved in the induction of MMP-1 expression. Furthermore, HMF affected the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway, which is involved in the regulation of type I procollagen expression. In particular, HMF induced Smad3 protein expression and suppressed Smad7 protein expression in UV-induced HDFn cells in a dose-dependent manner. These findings suggest a role for Citrus unshiu in the preparation of skincare products in future. PMID:29470423

Effect of shoe type on descending a curb.

PubMed

George, Juff; Heller, Michelle; Kuzel, Michael

2012-01-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of shoe type on the performance of women during curb descent. Performance during curb stepping may be explained by biomechanical research that has evaluated the kinematics of overground walking and stair ascent and descent. Studies have reported that women exhibit performance differences when wearing high heels, flip flops and sneakers during overground walking and stair ascent and descent. Thus, in addition to features of the curb, the type of shoe being worn may also affect performance. Although several studies have investigated curb stepping, no known studies have investigated the effects of different types of footwear on curb descent performance. This research was conducted in a real-world environment where participants wore three different types of shoes and performed a series of activities that involved curb stepping. The subjects were videotaped while descending a curb, allowing for observation of changes in gait parameters. Results of this study indicate that wearing high heels leads to performance differences as compared to wearing flip flops or sneakers.

Development of Prescription Drug Information Leaflets: Impact of Cognitive Effort and Patient Involvement on Prescription Medication Information Processing.

PubMed

Patel, Harshali K; Bapat, Shweta S; Bhansali, Archita H; Sansgiry, Sujit S

2018-01-01

The objective of this study was to develop a one-page (1-page) prescription drug information leaflet (PILs) and assess their impact on the information processing variables, across 2 levels of patient involvement. One-page PILs were developed using cognitive principles to lower mental effort and improve comprehension. An experimental, 3 × 2 repeated measures study was conducted to determine the impact of cognitive effort, manipulated using leaflet type on comprehension across 2 levels (high/low) of patient involvement. Adults (≥18 years) in a university setting in Houston were recruited for the study. Each participant was exposed to 3 different types of prescription drug information leaflet (the current practice, preexisting 1-page text-only, and 1-page PILs) for the 3 drugs (Celebrex, Ventolin HFA, Prezista) for a given involvement scenario. A prevalidated survey instrument was used to measure product knowledge, attitude toward leaflet, and intention to read. Multivariate analysis of variance indicated significant positive effect of cognitive effort, involvement, and their interaction effect across all measured variables. Mean scores for product knowledge, attitude toward leaflet, and intention to read were highest for PILs ( P < .001), indicating that PILs exerted lowest cognitive effort. Univariate and post hoc analysis indicate that product knowledge significantly increases with high involvement. Patients reading PILs have higher comprehension compared with the current practice and text-only prototype leaflets evaluated. Higher levels of involvement further improve participant knowledge about the drug, increase their intention to read the leaflet, and change their attitude toward the leaflet. Implementation of PILs would improve information processing for consumers by reducing their cognitive effort.

Complement Coercion: The Joint Effects of Type and Typicality.

PubMed

Zarcone, Alessandra; McRae, Ken; Lenci, Alessandro; Padó, Sebastian

2017-01-01

Complement coercion ( begin a book → reading ) involves a type clash between an event-selecting verb and an entity-denoting object, triggering a covert event ( reading ). Two main factors involved in complement coercion have been investigated: the semantic type of the object (event vs. entity), and the typicality of the covert event ( the author began a book → writing ). In previous research, reading times have been measured at the object. However, the influence of the typicality of the subject-object combination on processing an aspectual verb such as begin has not been studied. Using a self-paced reading study, we manipulated semantic type and subject-object typicality, exploiting German word order to measure reading times at the aspectual verb. These variables interacted at the target verb. We conclude that both type and typicality probabilistically guide expectations about upcoming input. These results are compatible with an expectation-based view of complement coercion and language comprehension more generally in which there is rapid interaction between what is typically viewed as linguistic knowledge, and what is typically viewed as domain general knowledge about how the world works.

Complement Coercion: The Joint Effects of Type and Typicality

PubMed Central

Zarcone, Alessandra; McRae, Ken; Lenci, Alessandro; Padó, Sebastian

2017-01-01

Complement coercion (begin a book →reading) involves a type clash between an event-selecting verb and an entity-denoting object, triggering a covert event (reading). Two main factors involved in complement coercion have been investigated: the semantic type of the object (event vs. entity), and the typicality of the covert event (the author began a book →writing). In previous research, reading times have been measured at the object. However, the influence of the typicality of the subject–object combination on processing an aspectual verb such as begin has not been studied. Using a self-paced reading study, we manipulated semantic type and subject–object typicality, exploiting German word order to measure reading times at the aspectual verb. These variables interacted at the target verb. We conclude that both type and typicality probabilistically guide expectations about upcoming input. These results are compatible with an expectation-based view of complement coercion and language comprehension more generally in which there is rapid interaction between what is typically viewed as linguistic knowledge, and what is typically viewed as domain general knowledge about how the world works. PMID:29225585

Deformation-related recrystallization processes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Drury, Martyn R.; Urai, Janos L.

1990-02-01

Recrystallization is a common microstructural transformation that occurs during deformation, metamorphism and diagenesis of rocks. Studies on minerals and rock analogues have demonstrated that a wide range of recrystallization mechanisms can occur. The range of mechanisms is related to the various ways in which two basic processes, grain boundary migration and new grain boundary formation combine to transform the microstructure. Two recent papers (Drury et al., 1985; Urai et al., 1986) have proposed different schemes for the description of recrystallization mechanisms. The purpose of this paper is to provide a unified framework for the description of mechanisms. Recrystallization mechanisms are divided into three main types; rotation mechanisms which principally involve the formation of new grain boundaries; migration mechanisms which principally involve grain boundary migration; and general mechanisms which involve both basic processes. A further distinction is made on the basis of the continuity of the microstructural transformation with respect to time. Each of the three main types of mechanism can be divided into a number of sub-types depending on whether the processes of grain boundary migration, new grain boundary formation and new grain formation occur in a discontinuous or continuous manner with respect to time. As the terms continuous and discontinuous have been used in the metallurgical literature to signify the spatial continuity of the microstructural transformation, the terms discontinuai and continual are used to refer to the temporal continuity of the transformation. It is recommended that the following aspects should be specified, if possible, in a general description of recrystallization mechanisms: (1) How do the basic processes combine to transform the microstructure. (2) If new grain development occurs, what is the development mechanism, and does new grain formation occur in a continual or discontinuai manner. (3) If grain boundary migration is involved in the transformation, what is the migration mechanism (i.e. fast solute escape migration, slow solute loaded migration, fluid assisted migration, etc.), and is migration a continual or discontinuai process. The application of the unified scheme is illustrated by reviewing studies that have provided detailed information on the recrystallization mechanisms involved. The complicating effects of solid solution impurities, dispersed second phase particles and grain boundary fluid films are also considered and it is demonstrated that variations in content of these types of impurity can significantly effect the types of recrystallization that occur in a given material.

Studies of non-standard effects in atmospheric neutrino oscillations of Super-Kamiokande

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Wei

Neutrino oscillation due to mass eigenstate mixing has become the standard theory accounting for both solar and atmospheric neutrino data. This explanation indicates that neutrinos have small but non-vanishing masses, which is a sign of new physics beyond the Standard Model. In this dissertation, we will compare the standard explanation with three types of alternative theories using Super-Kamiokande (SK) atmospheric neutrino data. The first type of non-standard theory involves sterile neutrinos. By using the neutral current enhanced data samples of SK and by considering matter effect, we conclude it is unlikely that sterile neutrinos are responsible for SK atmospheric neutrino zenith angle distributions. Furthermore, we study the allowance of sterile neutrino admixture in atmospheric neutrino mixing and find an admixture of 23% sterile neutrino is allowed at 90% confidence level based on a 2+2 mass hierarchy model. The second type of non-standard theory involves neutrino oscillation induced by violations of Lorentz invariance (LIV) and CPT symmetry (CPTV). The neutrino oscillations induced by the temporal components of the LIV and CPTV terms in the minimal Standard Model Extension (SME) have different energy and pathlength dependences compared to the standard oscillation. Our analysis indicates that it is unlikely to explain SK atmospheric neutrino data with the oscillation effects induced by the temporal components of the minimal SME separately. By treating LIV- and CPTV-induced oscillations as sub-dominant effects, limits on symmetry-breaking parameters are established. The third category of non-standard theory involves vanishing neutrinos caused by neutrino decoherence and neutrino decay. Our study shows that it is unlikely to explain SK atmospheric neutrino zenith angle distributions using these two non-oscillatory models. By treating them as sub-dominant effects, limits on these two types of new physics are set based on several specific models. Our study shows that the oscillation between muon neutrinos and tau neutrinos is the best model explaining SK atmospheric neutrino data among the models we test. In most cases, limits on new physics established in this study using SK atmospheric neutrino data are the best currently available.

Different mechanisms for the photoinduced production of oxidative DNA damage by fluoroquinolones differing in photostability.

PubMed

Spratt, T E; Schultz, S S; Levy, D E; Chen, D; Schlüter, G; Williams, G M

1999-09-01

Several fluoroquinolone antibacterial agents exhibit an adverse phototoxic effect in humans and are photo-cocarcinogenic in mice. The UV-induced production of reactive oxygen species plays a role in the toxicity and may be involved in carcinogenicity. Four fluoroquinolones were examined for the ability to photochemically produce oxidative damage in naked DNA. The major structural difference in the fluoroquinolones that would have an effect on their photostability is the functionality at the 8-position. At this position, 1-cyclopropyl-7-(2,8-diazbicyclo[4.3.0]non-8-yl)-6, 8-difluoro-1,4-dihydro-4-oxo-3-quinolinecarboxylic acid (BAY y3118) contains a chlorine atom, lomefloxacin a fluorine atom, ciprofloxacin a proton, and moxifloxacin a methoxy group. The formation of 8-oxo-7,8-dihydro-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-oxodGuo) in calf thymus DNA was assessed by HPLC with electrochemical detection, and strand breaks were measured in pBR322 with agarose gel electrophoresis. The relative photolability of the fluoroquinolones correlated to the extent of production of 8-oxodGuo and strand breaks, with both UVA and UVB irradiation, in the following order: BAY y3118 approximately lomefloxacin > ciprofloxacin > moxifloxacin. Experiments were performed to determine whether the mechanism of damage was due to a type I (radical) or type II (singlet oxygen) pathway. Nitrogen depletion of oxygen resulted in a decrease in the extent of formation of 8-oxodGuo, suggesting that oxygen was involved. The use of selective radical or singlet oxygen inhibitors was inconclusive with respect to which pathway was involved. The use of D(2)O as a solvent, which would extend the lifetime of singlet oxygen, suggested that this species is involved in the formation of 8-oxodGuo by moxifloxacin and ciprofloxacin, but not by lomefloxacin and BAY y3118. Similarly, it was found that singlet oxygen was not involved in strand break formation. Thus, the evidence suggests that fluoroquinolones can photochemically produce DNA damage by both type I and type II mechanisms.

The nature and molecular basis of cutaneous photosensitivity reactions to psoralens and coal tar

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

Pathak, M.A.; Joshi, P.C.

1983-06-01

The basic aspects of cutaneous photosensitization reactions and the mode of therapeutic effectiveness of psoralens and coal tar, the two groups of photosensitizing agents used extensively in the photochemotherapy of psoriasis, have been reviewed. Psoralen-induced skin photosensitization and the therapeutic action of psoralens involve two distinct types of reactions, and these two reactions occur independently of each other and concurrently when the psoralen-treated skin (oral or topical) is exposed to 320 to 400 nm of radiation. The first, type I, is an oxygen-independent reaction and primarily involves photoreaction with DNA; the second, type II, is a sensitized reaction dependent onmore » oxygen and involves the formation of singlet oxygen (1O2). The photoreactive form of psoralen is its triplet state, and the sites of reaction are (1) the cell membrane of the epidermal, dermal, and endothelial cells; (2) the cytoplasmic constituents, such as enzymes, RNA, lysosomes, etc.; (3) the cell nuclei (DNA and chromatin); and (4) the sensitized production of 1O2, which is responsible for cell-membrane damage and vasodilation. The major damage would be initiated by a type I reaction and would be seen in the form of nuclear damage to DNA resulting from the interaction of psoralen with DNA and to a lesser extent with RNA. The skin photosensitization response (erythema, edema, membrane damage, etc.) would result from a type II reaction involving the generation of 1O2. Crude coal tar (CCT), widely used in the Goeckerman therapy for psoriasis, also produces type I and type II reactions. The therapeutic and photosensitizing actions of CCT are due to (1) the photoconjugation of the photoreactive ingredients of CCT with DNA, causing interstrand cross-links; and (2) the production of 1O2. CCT is an efficient producer of 1O2, more so than 8-methoxypsoralen, and is responsible for cell-membrane damage and cellular edema.« less

Foreign Object Damage to Tires Operating in a Wartime Environment

DTIC Science & Technology

1991-11-01

barriers were successfully overcome and the method of testing employed can now be confidently used for future test needs of this type. Data Analysis ...combined variable effects. Analysis consideration involved cut types, cut depths, number of cuts, cut/hit probabilities, tire failures, and aircraft...November 1988 with data reduction and analysis continuing into October 1989. All of the cutting tests reported in this report were conducted at the

Red grape (Vitis vinifera L.) flavonoids down-regulate collagen type III expression after UV-A in primary human dermal blood endothelial cells.

PubMed

Di Francesco, Serena; Savio, Monica; Bloise, Nora; Borroni, Giovanni; Stivala, Lucia Anna; Borroni, Riccardo G

2018-05-09

Red grape (Vitis vinifera L.) flavonoids including flavan-3-ols (e.g., catechin and epicatechin), flavonols (e.g., quercetin) and anthocyanins (e.g., malvidin) exert anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities. In the skin they also have a photoprotective action, and their effects have been extensively investigated in keratinocytes, melanocytes and fibroblasts. Despite their known effects also on blood vasculature, little is known on their activities on human dermal blood endothelial cells (HDBECs), which are critically involved in skin homeostasis as well as in the pathogenesis of neoplastic and inflammatory skin diseases. We sought to study the biological effects of selected red grape flavonoids in preventing the consequences of ultraviolet (UV)-A irradiation in vitro. Our results show that red grape flavonoids prevent UV-A-induced sICAM-1 release in HDBECs, suggesting that this cell type could represent an additional target of the anti-inflammatory activity of flavonoids. In addition, flavonoids effectively inhibited UV-A-induced synthesis of collagen type III at both RNA and protein level, indicating that dermal blood microvasculature could be actively involved in ECM remodelling as a consequence of skin photo-ageing, and that this can be prevented by red grape flavonoids. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Correlates of change in student reported parent involvement in schooling: a new look at the National Education Longitudinal Study of 1988.

PubMed

Stone, Susan

2006-10-01

Using a subsample (2174 students, 174 schools) from the National Education Longitudinal Study of 1988 (NELS), this study drew on Eccles and Harold's (1996) framework of parent involvement in schooling to estimate the relative influence of key child, family, and school characteristics on change in three types of student-reported parent involvement in schooling between eighth and tenth grades: home communication about school, monitoring, and direct interactions with schools. It also examines relationships between changes in involvement, change in grade point average (GPA), and dropout. Overall, measured school effects accounted for a small proportion of the variation in changes in home communication and direct parent interactions with schools. Sustained home communication related to higher grades and lower likelihood of dropout, although the size of effects was small. (c) 2007 APA, all rights reserved

Insulin glulisine: a review of its use in the management of diabetes mellitus.

PubMed

Garnock-Jones, Karly P; Plosker, Greg L

2009-05-29

Insulin glulisine (Apidra) is a human insulin analogue approved for the improvement of glycaemic control in adults, adolescents and children with diabetes mellitus. It has similar binding properties, and is associated with a faster onset but similar level of glucose disposal, to regular human insulin (RHI). Insulin glulisine and insulin lispro have similar effects on glucose levels. Insulin glulisine is effective when compared to other short- and rapid-acting insulins, demonstrating either noninferiority, no significant difference, or superiority in primary endpoints in studies involving patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes. It is more effective and has a faster onset and shorter duration of activity than RHI. Insulin glulisine is as effective as insulin lispro in patients with type 1 diabetes; however, there is a need for further, well designed head-to-head comparisons with insulin lispro in patients with type 2 diabetes and with insulin aspart in patients with type 1 or type 2 diabetes to fully establish the place of insulin glulisine in the management of diabetes. Insulin glulisine has a flexible administration period, as it can be administered immediately before or after meals. Hypoglycaemia, a common risk with insulins, occurs at a similar rate among recipients of insulin glulisine to that seen with other insulins. Thus, insulin glulisine is an effective and well tolerated option for the treatment of patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes.

Genotyping of Burkholderia mallei: Effective Subspecies Discrimination Using Ribotyping and Repeat Sequences

DTIC Science & Technology

2005-10-01

1 U.S. Army Soldier and Biological Chemical Command Genotyping of Burkholderia mallei : Effective Subspecies Discrimination using Ribotyping and...number. 1. REPORT DATE 01 OCT 2005 2. REPORT TYPE N/A 3. DATES COVERED - 4. TITLE AND SUBTITLE Genotyping of Burkholderia mallei : Effective...34Also can involve physical, chemical or immunological characteristics 3 Edgewood Chemical Biological Center Burkholderia mallei Biology and Pathogenesis

Emerging Opportunities for Serotypes of Botulinum Neurotoxins

PubMed Central

Peng Chen, Zhongxing; Morris, J. Glenn; Rodriguez, Ramon L.; Shukla, Aparna Wagle; Tapia-Núñez, John; Okun, Michael S.

2012-01-01

Background: Two decades ago, botulinum neurotoxin (BoNT) type A was introduced to the commercial market. Subsequently, the toxin was approved by the FDA to address several neurological syndromes, involving muscle, nerve, and gland hyperactivity. These syndromes have typically been associated with abnormalities in cholinergic transmission. Despite the multiplicity of botulinal serotypes (designated as types A through G), therapeutic preparations are currently only available for BoNT types A and B. However, other BoNT serotypes are under study for possible clinical use and new clinical indications; Objective: To review the current research on botulinum neurotoxin serotypes A-G, and to analyze potential applications within basic science and clinical settings; Conclusions: The increasing understanding of botulinal neurotoxin pathophysiology, including the neurotoxin’s effects on specific neuronal populations, will help us in tailoring treatments for specific diagnoses, symptoms and patients. Scientists and clinicians should be aware of the full range of available data involving neurotoxin subtypes A-G. PMID:23202312

Magnitude comparison with different types of rational numbers.

PubMed

DeWolf, Melissa; Grounds, Margaret A; Bassok, Miriam; Holyoak, Keith J

2014-02-01

An important issue in understanding mathematical cognition involves the similarities and differences between the magnitude representations associated with various types of rational numbers. For single-digit integers, evidence indicates that magnitudes are represented as analog values on a mental number line, such that magnitude comparisons are made more quickly and accurately as the numerical distance between numbers increases (the distance effect). Evidence concerning a distance effect for compositional numbers (e.g., multidigit whole numbers, fractions and decimals) is mixed. We compared the patterns of response times and errors for college students in magnitude comparison tasks across closely matched sets of rational numbers (e.g., 22/37, 0.595, 595). In Experiment 1, a distance effect was found for both fractions and decimals, but response times were dramatically slower for fractions than for decimals. Experiments 2 and 3 compared performance across fractions, decimals, and 3-digit integers. Response patterns for decimals and integers were extremely similar but, as in Experiment 1, magnitude comparisons based on fractions were dramatically slower, even when the decimals varied in precision (i.e., number of place digits) and could not be compared in the same way as multidigit integers (Experiment 3). Our findings indicate that comparisons of all three types of numbers exhibit a distance effect, but that processing often involves strategic focus on components of numbers. Fractions impose an especially high processing burden due to their bipartite (a/b) structure. In contrast to the other number types, the magnitude values associated with fractions appear to be less precise, and more dependent on explicit calculation. PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2014 APA, all rights reserved.

Land use history, environment, and tree composition in a tropical forest

Treesearch

Jill Thompson; Nicholas Brokaw; Jess K. Zimmerman; Robert B. Waide; Edwin M. III Everham; D. Jean Lodge; Charlotte M. Taylor; Diana Garcia-Montiel; Marcheterre Fluet

2002-01-01

The effects of historical land use on tropical forest must be examined to understand present forest characteristics and to plan conservation strategies. We compared the effects of past land use, topography, soil type, and other environmental variables on tree species composition in a subtropical wet forest in the Luquillo Mountains, Puerto Rico. The study involved...

[Oxytocin, a mediator of anti-stress, well-being, social interaction, growth and healing].

PubMed

Uvnas-Moberg, Kerstin; Petersson, Maria

2005-01-01

The neuroendocrine and physiological systems related to pain and stress have long been subjected to study. More recently, the corresponding systems promoting anti-stress and restoration have also come into focus. It is not only important to investigate the mechanisms underlying disease but also to examine the physiological and psychological mechanisms which protect and heal the body and soul. The nonapeptide oxytocin, originally known to stimulate labour and milk ejection, appears to play an important role in this regard. Oxytocin can induce anti-stress-like effects such as reduction of blood pressure and cortisol levels. It increases pain thresholds, exerts an anxiolytic-like effect and stimulates various types of positive social interaction. In addition, it promotes growth and healing. Repeated exposure to oxytocin causes long-lasting effects by influencing the activity of other transmitter systems, a pattern which makes oxytocin potentially clinically relevant. Oxytocin can be released by various types of non-noxious sensory stimulation, for example by touch and warmth. Ingestion of food triggers oxytocin release by activation of vagal afferents. Most likely, oxytocin can also be released by stimulation of other senses such as olfaction, as well as by certain types of sound and light. In addition, purely psychological mechanisms may trigger the release of oxytocin. This means that positive interaction involving touch and psychological support may be health-promoting. The social interaction of daily life, as well as a positive environment, continuously activate this system. In addition, various types of psychotherapy involving transfer of support, warmth and empathy are likely to induce similar effects, which thus contribute to the positive effects of these kinds of therapies.

Pan-Cancer Molecular Classes Transcending Tumor Lineage Across 32 Cancer Types, Multiple Data Platforms, and over 10,000 Cases.

PubMed

Chen, Fengju; Zhang, Yiqun; Gibbons, Don L; Deneen, Benjamin; Kwiatkowski, David J; Ittmann, Michael; Creighton, Chad J

2018-05-01

Purpose: The Cancer Genome Atlas data resources represent an opportunity to explore commonalities across cancer types involving multiple molecular levels, but tumor lineage and histology can represent a barrier in moving beyond differences related to cancer type. Experimental Design: On the basis of gene expression data, we classified 10,224 cancers, representing 32 major types, into 10 molecular-based "classes." Molecular patterns representing tissue or histologic dominant effects were first removed computationally, with the resulting classes representing emergent themes across tumor lineages. Results: Key differences involving mRNAs, miRNAs, proteins, and DNA methylation underscored the pan-cancer classes. One class expressing neuroendocrine and cancer-testis antigen markers represented ∼4% of cancers surveyed. Basal-like breast cancers segregated into an exclusive class, distinct from all other cancers. Immune checkpoint pathway markers and molecular signatures of immune infiltrates were most strongly manifested within a class representing ∼13% of cancers. Pathway-level differences involving hypoxia, NRF2-ARE, Wnt, and Notch were manifested in two additional classes enriched for mesenchymal markers and miR200 silencing. Conclusions: All pan-cancer molecular classes uncovered here, with the important exception of the basal-like breast cancer class, involve a wide range of cancer types and would facilitate understanding the molecular underpinnings of cancers beyond tissue-oriented domains. Numerous biological processes associated with cancer in the laboratory setting were found here to be coordinately manifested across large subsets of human cancers. The number of cancers manifesting features of neuroendocrine tumors may be much higher than previously thought, which disease is known to occur in many different tissues. Clin Cancer Res; 24(9); 2182-93. ©2018 AACR . ©2018 American Association for Cancer Research.

Rapid actions of aldosterone revisited: Receptors in the limelight.

PubMed

Wehling, Martin

2018-02-01

Steroid hormones like aldosterone have been conclusively shown to elicit both late genomic and rapid, nongenomically initiated responses. Aldosterone was among the first for which rapid, clinically relevant effects were even shown in humans. Yet, after over 30 years of research, the nature of receptors involved in rapid actions of aldosterone is still unclear. Such effects may be assigned to the classical, intracellular steroid receptors, in this case mineralocorticoid receptors (MR, class IIa action Mannheim classification). They typically disappear in knockout models and are blocked by MR-antagonists such as spironolactone, as shown for several cellular and physiological, e.g. renal or cardiovascular effects. In contrast, there is also consistent evidence suggesting type IIb effects involving structurally different receptors ("membrane receptors") being insensitive to classic antagonists and persistent in knockout models; IIb effects have lately even been confirmed by atomic force detection of surface receptors which bind aldosterone but not spironolactone. Type IIa and b may coexist in the same cell with IIa often augmenting early IIb effects. So far cloning of IIb receptors was unsuccessful; therefore results on G-protein coupled estrogen receptor 1 (GPER1) being potentially involved in rapid aldosterone action raised considerable interest. Surprisingly, GPER1 does not bind aldosterone. Though under these circumstances GPER1 should not yet be considered as IIb-receptor, it might be an intermediary signaling enhancer of mineralocorticoid action as shown for epithelial growth factor receptors reconciling those results. We still seem to be left without IIb-receptors whose identification would however be highly desirable and essential for clinical translation. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Domino effect in chemical accidents: main features and accident sequences.

PubMed

Darbra, R M; Palacios, Adriana; Casal, Joaquim

2010-11-15

The main features of domino accidents in process/storage plants and in the transportation of hazardous materials were studied through an analysis of 225 accidents involving this effect. Data on these accidents, which occurred after 1961, were taken from several sources. Aspects analyzed included the accident scenario, the type of accident, the materials involved, the causes and consequences and the most common accident sequences. The analysis showed that the most frequent causes are external events (31%) and mechanical failure (29%). Storage areas (35%) and process plants (28%) are by far the most common settings for domino accidents. Eighty-nine per cent of the accidents involved flammable materials, the most frequent of which was LPG. The domino effect sequences were analyzed using relative probability event trees. The most frequent sequences were explosion→fire (27.6%), fire→explosion (27.5%) and fire→fire (17.8%). Copyright © 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Hydrogen environment embrittlement

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gray, H. R.

1972-01-01

Hydrogen embrittlement is classified into three types: internal reversible hydrogen embrittlement, hydrogen reaction embrittlement, and hydrogen environment embrittlement. Characteristics of and materials embrittled by these types of hydrogen embrittlement are discussed. Hydrogen environment embrittlement is reviewed in detail. Factors involved in standardizing test methods for detecting the occurrence of and evaluating the severity of hydrogen environment embrittlement are considered. The effect of test technique, hydrogen pressure, purity, strain rate, stress concentration factor, and test temperature are discussed. Additional research is required to determine whether hydrogen environment embrittlement and internal reversible hydrogen embrittlement are similar or distinct types of embrittlement.

Clostridium perfringens Type E Virulence Traits Involved in Gut Colonization

PubMed Central

Redondo, Leandro M.; Carrasco, Juan M. Díaz; Redondo, Enzo A.; Delgado, Fernando; Miyakawa, Mariano E. Fernández

2015-01-01

Clostridium perfringens type E disease in ruminants has been characterized by hemorrhagic enteritis or sudden death. Although type E isolates are defined by the production of alpha and iota toxin, little is known about the pathogenesis of C. perfringens type E infections. Thus far, the role of iota toxin as a virulence factor is unknown. In this report, iota toxin showed positive effects on adherence and colonization of C. perfringens type E while having negative effect on the adherence of type A cells. In-vitro and in-vivo models suggest that toxinotype E would be particularly adapted to exploit the changes induced by iota toxin in the surface of epithelial cells. In addition, type E strains produce metabolites that affected the growth of potential intra-specific competitors. These results suggest that the alteration of the enterocyte morphology induced by iota toxin concomitantly with the specific increase of type E cell adhesion and the strong intra-specific growth inhibition of other strains could be competitive traits inherent to type E isolates that improve its fitness within the bovine gut environment. PMID:25799452

Ischemic optic neuropathy as a model of neurodegenerative disorder: A review of pathogenic mechanism of axonal degeneration and the role of neuroprotection.

PubMed

Khalilpour, Saba; Latifi, Shahrzad; Behnammanesh, Ghazaleh; Majid, Amin Malik Shah Abdul; Majid, Aman Shah Abdul; Tamayol, Ali

2017-04-15

Optic neuropathy is a neurodegenerative disease which involves optic nerve injury. It is caused by acute or intermittent insults leading to visual dysfunction. There are number of factors, responsible for optic neuropathy, and the optic nerve axon is affected in all type which causes the loss of retinal ganglion cells. In this review we will highlight various mechanisms involved in the cell loss cascades during axonal degeneration as well as ischemic optic neuropathy. These mechanisms include oxidative stress, excitotoxicity, angiogenesis, neuroinflammation and apoptosis following retinal ischemia. We will also discuss the effect of neuroprotective agents in attenuation of the negative effect of factors involve in the disease occurrence and progression. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier B.V.

The analysis of influence of individual and environmental factors on 2-wheeled users' injuries.

PubMed

Marković, Nenad; Pešić, Dalibor R; Antić, Boris; Vujanić, Milan

2016-08-17

Powered 2-wheeled motor vehicles (PTWs) are one of the most vulnerable categories of road users. Bearing that fact in mind, we have researched the effects of individual and environmental factors on the severity and type of injuries of PTW users. The aim was to recognize the circumstances that cause these accidents and take some preventive actions that would improve the level of road safety for PTWs. In the period from 2001 to 2010, an analysis of 139 road accidents involving PTWs was made by the Faculty of Transport and Traffic Engineering in Belgrade. The effects of both individual (age, gender, etc.) and environmental factors (place of an accident, time of day, etc.) on the cause of accidents and severity and type of injuries of PTWs are reported in this article. Analyses of these effects were conducted using logistic regression, chi-square tests, and Pearson's correlation. Factors such as categories of road users, pavement conditions, place of accident, age, and time of day have a statistically significant effect on PTW injuries, whereas other factors (gender, road type; that is, straight or curvy) do not. The article also defines the interdependence of the occurrence of particular injuries at certain speeds. The results show that if PTW users died of a head injury, these were usually concurrent with chest injuries, injuries to internal organs, and limb injuries. It has been shown that there is a high degree of influence of individual factors on the occurrence of accidents involving 2-wheelers (PTWs/bicycles) but with no statistically significant relation. Establishing the existence of such conditionalities enables identifying and defining factors that have an impact on the occurrence of traffic accidents involving bicyclists or PTWs. Such a link between individual factors and the occurrence of accidents makes it possible for system managers to take appropriate actions aimed at certain categories of 2-wheelers in order to reduce casualties in a particular area. The analysis showed that most of the road factors do not have a statistically significant effect on either category of 2-wheeler. Namely, the logistic regression analysis showed that there is a statistically significant effect of the place of accident on the occurrence of accidents involving bicyclists.

Local Discontinuous Galerkin Methods for Partial Differential Equations with Higher Order Derivatives

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yan, Jue; Shu, Chi-Wang; Bushnell, Dennis M. (Technical Monitor)

2002-01-01

In this paper we review the existing and develop new continuous Galerkin methods for solving time dependent partial differential equations with higher order derivatives in one and multiple space dimensions. We review local discontinuous Galerkin methods for convection diffusion equations involving second derivatives and for KdV type equations involving third derivatives. We then develop new local discontinuous Galerkin methods for the time dependent bi-harmonic type equations involving fourth derivatives, and partial differential equations involving fifth derivatives. For these new methods we present correct interface numerical fluxes and prove L(exp 2) stability for general nonlinear problems. Preliminary numerical examples are shown to illustrate these methods. Finally, we present new results on a post-processing technique, originally designed for methods with good negative-order error estimates, on the local discontinuous Galerkin methods applied to equations with higher derivatives. Numerical experiments show that this technique works as well for the new higher derivative cases, in effectively doubling the rate of convergence with negligible additional computational cost, for linear as well as some nonlinear problems, with a local uniform mesh.

Seven Steps to the Diagnosis of NSAIDs Hypersensitivity: How to Apply a New Classification in Real Practice?

PubMed Central

Makowska, Joanna S.

2015-01-01

Frequent use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) has been paralleled by increasing occurrence of adverse reactions, which vary from mild local skin rashes or gastric irritation to severe, generalized symptoms and even life-threatening anaphylaxis. NSAID-induced hypersensitivity reactions may involve both immunological and non-immunological mechanisms and should be differentiated from type A adverse reactions. Clinical diagnosis and effective management of a hypersensitive patient cannot be achieved without identifying the underlying mechanism. In this review, we discuss the current classification of NSAID-induced adverse reactions and propose a practical diagnostic algorithm that involves 7 steps leading to the determination of the type of NSAID-induced hypersensitivity and allows for proper patient management. PMID:25749768

Association of HaeIII single nucleotide polymorphisms in the SLC2A1 gene with risk of diabetic nephropathy; evidence from Kurdish patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

PubMed

Amini, Sabrieh; Javanmardi, Mitra; Mokarizadeh, Aram; Maroofi, Farzad; Jalali, Chiya; Azadi, Namam-Ali; Mohammadi, Hamid; Abdi, Mohammad

2016-06-01

Given the growing rate of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, uncovering the effects of gene polymorphism on diabetes pathogenesis has attracted a lot of attention. Because glucose transporter 1 is involved in glucose uptake, the polymorphism of this gene may be an important risk factor in type 2 diabetes mellitus or in the progression of diabetes complications such as diabetic nephropathy. As far as the authors are concerned, this study is the first one aiming at evaluating the probable effects of solute carrier family 2 facilitated glucose transporter member 1 (SLC2A1) HaeIII polymorphism on clinical and laboratory outcomes of Kurdish patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. This study was conducted involving 126 diabetic nephropathy patients and 150 diabetic patients without renal involvement. Serum levels of Cystatin C, fasting blood glucose, creatinine and urinary albumin; levels of glycated hemoglobin and estimated glomerular filtration rate were measured. Moreover, the Hae III polymorphism of SLC2A1 gene was determined by PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP). The rate of CC genotype was higher (37%) in patients with diabetic nephropathy compared with controls. There were a significant correlation between the CC genotype and risk of diabetic nephropathy. There were significant correlations between genotypes, serum Cystatin C and estimated glomerular filtration rate in patients with diabetic nephropathy. The results demonstrated the high frequency of C allele of SLC2A1 HaeIII in Kurdish patients with diabetic nephropathy. It was also found that this polymorphism is a significant risk factor for diabetic nephropathy. The effect of this polymorphism on clinical and laboratory characteristics of diabetic nephropathy patients was significant. © The Author 2015. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Association of Physicians. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Impact of the type of mask on the effectiveness of and adherence to continuous positive airway pressure treatment for obstructive sleep apnea.

PubMed

Andrade, Rafaela Garcia Santos de; Piccin, Vivien Schmeling; Nascimento, Juliana Araújo; Viana, Fernanda Madeiro Leite; Genta, Pedro Rodrigues; Lorenzi-Filho, Geraldo

2014-01-01

Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is the gold standard for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Although CPAP was originally applied with a nasal mask, various interfaces are currently available. This study reviews theoretical concepts and questions the premise that all types of interfaces produce similar results. We revised the evidence in the literature about the impact that the type of CPAP interface has on the effectiveness of and adherence to OSA treatment. We searched the PubMed database using the search terms "CPAP", "mask", and "obstructive sleep apnea". Although we identified 91 studies, only 12 described the impact of the type of CPAP interface on treatment effectiveness (n = 6) or adherence (n = 6). Despite conflicting results, we found no consistent evidence that nasal pillows and oral masks alter OSA treatment effectiveness or adherence. In contrast, most studies showed that oronasal masks are less effective and are more often associated with lower adherence and higher CPAP abandonment than are nasal masks. We concluded that oronasal masks can compromise CPAP OSA treatment adherence and effectiveness. Further studies are needed in order to understand the exact mechanisms involved in this effect.

Impact of the type of mask on the effectiveness of and adherence to continuous positive airway pressure treatment for obstructive sleep apnea*

PubMed Central

de Andrade, Rafaela Garcia Santos; Piccin, Vivien Schmeling; Nascimento, Juliana Araújo; Viana, Fernanda Madeiro Leite; Genta, Pedro Rodrigues; Lorenzi-Filho, Geraldo

2014-01-01

Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is the gold standard for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Although CPAP was originally applied with a nasal mask, various interfaces are currently available. This study reviews theoretical concepts and questions the premise that all types of interfaces produce similar results. We revised the evidence in the literature about the impact that the type of CPAP interface has on the effectiveness of and adherence to OSA treatment. We searched the PubMed database using the search terms "CPAP", "mask", and "obstructive sleep apnea". Although we identified 91 studies, only 12 described the impact of the type of CPAP interface on treatment effectiveness (n = 6) or adherence (n = 6). Despite conflicting results, we found no consistent evidence that nasal pillows and oral masks alter OSA treatment effectiveness or adherence. In contrast, most studies showed that oronasal masks are less effective and are more often associated with lower adherence and higher CPAP abandonment than are nasal masks. We concluded that oronasal masks can compromise CPAP OSA treatment adherence and effectiveness. Further studies are needed in order to understand the exact mechanisms involved in this effect. PMID:25610507

Cyclists' Anger As Determinant of Near Misses Involving Different Road Users.

PubMed

Marín Puchades, Víctor; Prati, Gabriele; Rondinella, Gianni; De Angelis, Marco; Fassina, Filippo; Fraboni, Federico; Pietrantoni, Luca

2017-01-01

Road anger constitutes one of the determinant factors related to safety outcomes (e.g., accidents, near misses). Although cyclists are considered vulnerable road users due to their relatively high rate of fatalities in traffic, previous research has solely focused on car drivers, and no study has yet investigated the effect of anger on cyclists' safety outcomes. The present research aims to investigate, for the first time, the effects of cycling anger toward different types of road users on near misses involving such road users and near misses in general. Using a daily diary web-based questionnaire, we collected data about daily trips, bicycle use, near misses experienced, cyclist's anger and demographic information from 254 Spanish cyclists. Poisson regression was used to assess the association of cycling anger with near misses, which is a count variable. No relationship was found between general cycling anger and near misses occurrence. Anger toward specific road users had different effects on the probability of near misses with different road users. Anger toward the interaction with car drivers increased the probability of near misses involving cyclists and pedestrians. Anger toward interaction with pedestrians was associated with higher probability of near misses with pedestrians. Anger toward cyclists exerted no effect on the probability of near misses with any road user (i.e., car drivers, cyclists or pedestrians), whereas anger toward the interactions with the police had a diminishing effect on the occurrence of near misses' involving all types of road users. The present study demonstrated that the effect of road anger on safety outcomes among cyclists is different from that of motorists. Moreover, the target of anger played an important role on safety both for the cyclist and the specific road users. Possible explanations for these differences are based on the difference in status and power with motorists, as well as on the potential displaced aggression produced by the fear of retaliation by motorized vehicle users.

Anti-diabetic effect of pyroglutamic acid in type 2 diabetic Goto-Kakizaki rats and KK-Ay mice.

PubMed

Yoshinari, Orie; Igarashi, Kiharu

2011-10-01

With the rapidly increasing prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), specific dietary components with anti-diabetic efficacy could be one strategy with therapeutic potential. In the present study, the anti-diabetic effects of an amino acid, pyroglutamic acid (PA), found in vegetables and fruits were investigated in T2DM models using Goto-Kakizaki (GK) rats and KK-Ay mice by measuring glucose tolerance and other markers of diabetes. Moreover, the effect of PA on gene expression in GK rats was measured by DNA microarray analysis. Oral glucose tolerance and serum insulin levels were reduced by PA in both animal models. Serum and liver total cholesterol levels were also improved by PA. Expression of genes involved with gluconeogenesis and those involved with its related transcription factor were down-regulated by feeding PA. In KK-Ay mice, the glucokinase:glucose-6-phosphatase (G6Pase) activity ratio increased. From these results, it is suggested that dietary PA beneficially modifies glucose and lipid metabolism in diabetic animals, and can potentially contribute to the mitigation of T2DM.

Lycopene depresses glutamate release through inhibition of voltage-dependent Ca2+ entry and protein kinase C in rat cerebrocortical nerve terminals.

PubMed

Lu, Cheng-Wei; Hung, Chi-Feng; Jean, Wei-Horng; Lin, Tzu-Yu; Huang, Shu-Kuei; Wang, Su-Jane

2018-05-01

Lycopene is a natural dietary carotenoid that was reported to exhibit a neuroprotective profile. Considering that excitotoxicity and cell death induced by glutamate are involved in many brain disorders, the effect of lycopene on glutamate release in rat cerebrocortical nerve terminals and the possible mechanism involved in such effect was investigated. We observed here that lycopene inhibited 4-aminopyridine (4-AP)-evoked glutamate release and intrasynaptosomal Ca 2+ concentration elevation. The inhibitory effect of lycopene on 4-AP-evoked glutamate release was markedly reduced in the presence of the Ca v 2.2 (N-type) and Ca v 2.1 (P/Q-type) channel blocker ω-conotoxin MVIIC, but was insensitive to the intracellular Ca 2+ -release inhibitors dantrolene and CGP37157. Furthermore, in the presence of the protein kinase C inhibitors GF109203X and Go6976, the action of lycopene on evoked glutamate release was prevented. These results are the first to suggest that lycopene inhibits glutamate release from rat cortical synaptosomes by suppressing presynaptic Ca 2+ entry and protein kinase C activity.

Influence of glycemic control on some real-time biomarkers of free radical formation in type 2 diabetic patients: An EPR study.

PubMed

Gadjeva, Veselina Georgieva; Goycheva, Petia; Nikolova, Galina; Zheleva, Antoaneta

2017-11-01

The pathology of diabetes is associated with several mechanisms, one of which is oxidative stress (OS). The relationship between OS and diabetic complications has been extensively investigated. OS has been suggested to be involved in the genesis of both macroand microangiopathy. In contrast, the relationship between OS and insulin action is a neglected research area. The aim of this study is to elucidate the effect of glycemic control in type 2 diabetic patients by following the serum levels of some real-time oxidative stress biomarkers. The study group consisted of 53 type 2 diabetic patients (31 with poor glycemic control and 22 with good glycemic control) and 24 healthy control subjects. The oxidative stress biomarkers (ROS, Asc• and •NO) were measured by using electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy (EPR) methods and compared with clinical parameters. The statistically significantly higher levels of ROS products and •NO in type 2 diabetic patients in both groups compared to controls mean that the oxidation processes take place at the time the survey is performed. Free radical overproduction persists after the normalization of the glucose levels, and oxidative stress may be involved in the "metabolic memory" effect. This is confirmed by the positive correlation between ROS levels/•NO and average blood glucose levels, triglycerides, and total cholesterol. Furthermore, the low level of the ascorbate radical in both diabetes groups compared to controls confirmed an increase in oxidation processes. Higher levels of real-time biomarkers show that intensive insulin treatment does not lead to the expected decrease in oxidative processes involving ROS and •NO, probably due to "metabolic memory".

Characteristics of worker accidents on NYSDOT construction projects.

PubMed

Mohan, Satish; Zech, Wesley C

2005-01-01

This paper aims at providing cost-effective safety measures to protect construction workers in highway work zones, based on real data. Two types of accidents that occur in work zones were: (a) construction work area accidents, and (b) traffic accidents involving construction worker(s). A detailed analysis of work zone accidents involving 36 fatalities and 3,055 severe injuries to construction workers on New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) construction projects from 1990 to 2001 established that five accident types: (a) Struck/Pinned by Large Equipment, (b) Trip or Fall (elevated), (c) Contact w/Electrical or Gas Utility, (d) Struck-by Moving/Falling Load, and (e) Crane/Lift Device Failure accounted for nearly 96% of the fatal accidents, nearly 63% of the hospital-level injury accidents, and nearly 91% of the total costs. These construction work area accidents had a total cost of $133.8 million. Traffic accidents that involve contractors' employees were also examined. Statistical analyses of the traffic accidents established that five traffic accident types: (a) Work Space Intrusion, (b) Worker Struck-by Vehicle Inside Work Space, (c) Flagger Struck-by Vehicle, (d) Worker Struck-by Vehicle Entering/Exiting Work Space, and (e) Construction Equipment Struck-by Vehicle Inside Work Space accounted for nearly 86% of the fatal, nearly 70% of the hospital-level injury and minor injury traffic accidents, and $45.4 million (79.4%) of the total traffic accident costs. The results of this paper provide real statistics on construction worker related accidents reported on construction work zones. Potential preventions based on real statistics have also been suggested. The ranking of accident types, both within the work area as well as in traffic, will guide the heavy highway contractor and owner agencies in identifying the most cost effective safety preventions.

Factor Models for Ordinal Variables With Covariate Effects on the Manifest and Latent Variables: A Comparison of LISREL and IRT Approaches

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Moustaki, Irini; Joreskog, Karl G.; Mavridis, Dimitris

2004-01-01

We consider a general type of model for analyzing ordinal variables with covariate effects and 2 approaches for analyzing data for such models, the item response theory (IRT) approach and the PRELIS-LISREL (PLA) approach. We compare these 2 approaches on the basis of 2 examples, 1 involving only covariate effects directly on the ordinal variables…

Analysis of Regional Effects on Market Segment Production

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-06-01

REGIONAL EFFECTS ON MARKET SEGMENT PRODUCTION by James D. Moffitt June 2016 Thesis Advisor: Lyn R. Whitaker Co-Advisor: Jonathan K. Alt...REPORT TYPE AND DATES COVERED Master’s thesis 4. TITLE AND SUBTITLE ANALYSIS OF REGIONAL EFFECTS ON MARKET SEGMENT PRODUCTION 5. FUNDING NUMBERS 6...accessions in Potential Rating Index Zip Code Market New Evolution (PRIZM NE) market segments. This model will aid USAREC G2 analysts involved in

Effect of personality type on pharmacodynamics through changing pharmacokinetics.

PubMed

Xu, Feng

2007-01-01

A few studies have showed that there is an association between the genetic polymorphisms of drug-metabolizing enzyme, CYP2D6, to persons with different personality type. More and more evidences suggested that personality type is kind of behavioral or psychological factor which might influence the pharmacodynamics as well as patient's gender, age, disease, and genetic background. We hypothesized that personality affect the pharmacodynamics through changing pharmacokinetic mediated by different polymorphism of drug-metabolizing enzymes. Since many major diseases, from cancer to infectious disease, are involved with risky Type A personality, we appeal for attention to the clinical pharmacologist and psychiatrists further to study personality pharmacokinetics for individualized medicine.

Nanomaterials in the Context of Type 2 Immune Responses—Fears and Potentials

PubMed Central

Himly, Martin; Mills-Goodlet, Robert; Geppert, Mark; Duschl, Albert

2017-01-01

The type 2 immune response is an adaptive immune program involved in defense against parasites, detoxification, and wound healing, but is predominantly known for its pathophysiological effects, manifesting as allergic disease. Engineered nanoparticles (NPs) are non-self entities that, to our knowledge, do not stimulate detrimental type 2 responses directly, but have the potential to modulate ongoing reactions in various ways, including the delivery of substances aiming at providing a therapeutic benefit. We review, here, the state of knowledge concerning the interaction of NPs with type 2 immune responses and highlight their potential as a multifunctional platform for therapeutic intervention. PMID:28487697

Low-intensity ultrasound adjuvant therapy: enhancement of doxorubicin-induced cytotoxicity and the acoustic mechanisms involved.

PubMed

Kondo, Takashi; Yoshida, Toru; Ogawa, Ryohei; Hassan, Mariame A; Furusawa, Yukihiro; Zhao, Qing-Li; Watanabe, Akihiko; Morii, Akihiro; Feril, Loreto B; Tachibana, Katsuro; Kitagawa, Hiroshi; Tabuchi, Yoshiaki; Takasaki, Ichiro; Shehata, Mohammad H; Kudo, Nobuki; Tsukada, Kazuhiro

2009-06-01

In this study, the effects of low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIU) as an adjuvant to doxorubicin (DOX) treatment was further investigated in comparison to hyperthermia as another widely used adjuvant. The effects were compared with respect to cell killing and apoptosis induction in U937 cells. Human primary liver cancer (PLC) cells were also used to evaluate the effects of the combinations. The use of an echo contrast agent was investigated for further enhancement of cytotoxicity. Finally, the acoustic mechanisms involved were investigated. The effects of different treatment regimens on cell viability were determined using the Trypan blue dye-exclusion test. Apoptosis induction was detected by flow cytometry using fluorescein isothiocyanate-annexin V and propidium iodide staining. The mechanistic study involved electron paramagnetic spin trapping for detecting free radical formation as an indicator of the occurrence of inertial cavitation and spectrophotometry for sucrose hydrolysis as an indicator for noncavitational effects. The combination treatments exerted synergistic effects on cytotoxicity depending on the acoustic conditions used. The use of LIU as an adjuvant to DOX treatment was shown to be superior to the use of hyperthermia as an adjuvant. Moreover, the combination seems to be promising for other cancer types provided that the acoustic conditions are properly selected with respect to drug concentration. The key ultrasound mechanism responsible for the synergism observed was shown to be the production of free radicals by inertial cavitation. Non-cavitational forces were also shown to contribute to the effect. This study is motivating to engage in in vivo research with various cancer types as a step toward clinical applicability and is emphasizing on the importance of developing therapeutic protocols for setting LIU parameters with respect to other therapeutic conditions.

Blood characterization using UV/vis spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mattley, Yvette D.; Mitrani-Gold, F.; Orton, S.; Bacon, Christina P.; Leparc, German F.; Bayona, M.; Potter, Robert L.; Garcia-Rubio, Luis H.

1995-05-01

The current methods used for typing blood involve an agglutination reaction which results from the association of specific antibodies with antigens present on the erythrocyte cell surface. While this method is effective, it requires involved laboratory procedures to detect the cell surface antigens. As an alternative technique, uv/vis spectroscopy has been investigated as a novel way to characterize and differentiate the blood types. Typing with this technique is based on spectral differences which appear throughout portions of both the ultraviolet and visible range. The origin of these spectral differences is unknown and presently under investigation. They may be due to intrinsic absorption differences at the molecular level, and/or they may be due to scattering differences brought about by either subtle variation in cell surface characteristics, cell shape or state of aggregation. As the background optical density in these samples is identified and accounted for, the spectral differences become more defined. This work and the continuation of this project will be included in a general database encompassing a wide range of blood samples. In addition, long term goals involve the investigation of diseased blood with the potential of providing a more rapid diagnosis for blood borne pathogens.

Expression of collagen and related growth factors in rat tendon and skeletal muscle in response to specific contraction types

PubMed Central

Heinemeier, K M; Olesen, J L; Haddad, F; Langberg, H; Kjaer, M; Baldwin, K M; Schjerling, P

2007-01-01

Acute exercise induces collagen synthesis in both tendon and muscle, indicating an adaptive response in the connective tissue of the muscle–tendon unit. However, the mechanisms of this adaptation, potentially involving collagen-inducing growth factors (such as transforming growth factor-β-1 (TGF-β-1)), as well as enzymes related to collagen processing, are not clear. Furthermore, possible differential effects of specific contraction types on collagen regulation have not been investigated. Female Sprague–Dawley rats were subjected to 4 days of concentric, eccentric or isometric training (n = 7–9 per group) of the medial gastrocnemius, by stimulation of the sciatic nerve. RNA was extracted from medial gastrocnemius and Achilles tendon tissue 24 h after the last training bout, and mRNA levels for collagens I and III, TGF-β-1, connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), lysyl oxidase (LOX), metalloproteinases (MMP-2 and -9) and their inhibitors (TIMP-1 and 2) were measured by Northern blotting and/or real-time PCR. In tendon, expression of TGF-β-1 and collagens I and III (but not CTGF) increased in response to all types of training. Similarly, enzymes/factors involved in collagen processing were induced in tendon, especially LOX (up to 37-fold), which could indicate a loading-induced increase in cross-linking of tendon collagen. In skeletal muscle, a similar regulation of gene expression was observed, but in contrast to the tendon response, the effect of eccentric training was significantly greater than the effect of concentric training on the expression of several transcripts. In conclusion, the study supports an involvement of TGF-β-1 in loading-induced collagen synthesis in the muscle–tendon unit and importantly, it indicates that muscle tissue is more sensitive than tendon to the specific mechanical stimulus. PMID:17540706

Expression of collagen and related growth factors in rat tendon and skeletal muscle in response to specific contraction types.

PubMed

Heinemeier, K M; Olesen, J L; Haddad, F; Langberg, H; Kjaer, M; Baldwin, K M; Schjerling, P

2007-08-01

Acute exercise induces collagen synthesis in both tendon and muscle, indicating an adaptive response in the connective tissue of the muscle-tendon unit. However, the mechanisms of this adaptation, potentially involving collagen-inducing growth factors (such as transforming growth factor-beta-1 (TGF-beta-1)), as well as enzymes related to collagen processing, are not clear. Furthermore, possible differential effects of specific contraction types on collagen regulation have not been investigated. Female Sprague-Dawley rats were subjected to 4 days of concentric, eccentric or isometric training (n = 7-9 per group) of the medial gastrocnemius, by stimulation of the sciatic nerve. RNA was extracted from medial gastrocnemius and Achilles tendon tissue 24 h after the last training bout, and mRNA levels for collagens I and III, TGF-beta-1, connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), lysyl oxidase (LOX), metalloproteinases (MMP-2 and -9) and their inhibitors (TIMP-1 and 2) were measured by Northern blotting and/or real-time PCR. In tendon, expression of TGF-beta-1 and collagens I and III (but not CTGF) increased in response to all types of training. Similarly, enzymes/factors involved in collagen processing were induced in tendon, especially LOX (up to 37-fold), which could indicate a loading-induced increase in cross-linking of tendon collagen. In skeletal muscle, a similar regulation of gene expression was observed, but in contrast to the tendon response, the effect of eccentric training was significantly greater than the effect of concentric training on the expression of several transcripts. In conclusion, the study supports an involvement of TGF-beta-1 in loading-induced collagen synthesis in the muscle-tendon unit and importantly, it indicates that muscle tissue is more sensitive than tendon to the specific mechanical stimulus.

Grandparent Involvement and Children’s Health Outcomes: The Current State of the Literature

PubMed Central

Pulgaron, Elizabeth R.; Marchante, Ashley N.; Agosto, Yaray; Lebron, Cynthia N.; Delamater, Alan M.

2016-01-01

Introduction Grandparents are often highly involved as secondary caregivers for their grandchildren and may influence children’s psychological and physical health outcomes. The purpose of the current review was to gather and synthesize research findings on the effects of grandparent involvement on children’s physical health outcomes. Methods PubMed, PsycInfo, and MedLine were searched by three independent reviewers for articles that reported on grandparent involvement and children’s health. Twenty-six articles were included for final review based on selection criteria. Results Relatively few studies have examined the effects of grandparent involvement on children’s health outcomes and therefore the degree of their influence remains unclear. Four categories of children’s health outcomes: disease/illness, weight, eating behaviors, and injury/safety emerged during this review. Results indicated that the majority of studies available reported a negative effect of grandparent involvement on child’s weight status. However, It is important to note that in most of these studies the effects of grandparent involvement were not a primary outcome and the amount of time grandparents spent with their grandchildren was not accounted for. Many studies in this review were qualitative studies, limiting the types of analyses that could be conducted. Additionally, few longitudinal studies have been conducted in this area. Discussion Based on this review, it is clear that grandparents are involved in caretaking for children across many cultures but in order to understand their role in children’s health outcomes, more systematic and longitudinal research needs to be conducted. PMID:27505069

Molecular determinants on the insect sodium channel for the specific action of type II pyrethroid insecticides

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

Du Yuzhe; Nomura, Yoshiko; Luo Ningguang

2009-01-15

Pyrethroid insecticides are classified as type I or type II based on their distinct symptomology and effects on sodium channel gating. Structurally, type II pyrethroids possess an {alpha}-cyano group at the phenylbenzyl alcohol position, which is lacking in type I pyrethroids. Both type I and type II pyrethroids inhibit deactivation consequently prolonging the opening of sodium channels. However, type II pyrethroids inhibit the deactivation of sodium channels to a greater extent than type I pyrethroids inducing much slower decaying of tail currents upon repolarization. The molecular basis of a type II-specific action, however, is not known. Here we report themore » identification of a residue G{sup 1111} and two positively charged lysines immediately downstream of G{sup 1111} in the intracellular linker connecting domains II and III of the cockroach sodium channel that are specifically involved in the action of type II pyrethroids, but not in the action of type I pyrethroids. Deletion of G{sup 1111}, a consequence of alternative splicing, reduced the sodium channel sensitivity to type II pyrethroids, but had no effect on channel sensitivity to type I pyrethroids. Interestingly, charge neutralization or charge reversal of two positively charged lysines (Ks) downstream of G{sup 1111} had a similar effect. These results provide the molecular insight into the type II-specific interaction of pyrethroids with the sodium channel at the molecular level.« less

A randomized controlled trial of a brief intervention for illicit drugs linked to the Alcohol, Smoking and Substance Involvement Screening Test (ASSIST) in clients recruited from primary health-care settings in four countries.

PubMed

Humeniuk, Rachel; Ali, Robert; Babor, Thomas; Souza-Formigoni, Maria Lucia O; de Lacerda, Roseli Boerngen; Ling, Walter; McRee, Bonnie; Newcombe, David; Pal, Hemraj; Poznyak, Vladimir; Simon, Sara; Vendetti, Janice

2012-05-01

This study evaluated the effectiveness of a brief intervention (BI) for illicit drugs (cannabis, cocaine, amphetamine-type stimulants and opioids) linked to the World Health Organization (WHO) Alcohol, Smoking and Substance Involvement Screening Test (ASSIST). The ASSIST screens for problem or risky use of 10 psychoactive substances, producing a score for each substance that falls into either a low-, moderate- or high-risk category. Prospective, randomized controlled trial in which participants were either assigned to a 3-month waiting-list control condition or received brief motivational counselling lasting an average of 13.8 minutes for the drug receiving the highest ASSIST score. Primary health-care settings in four countries: Australia, Brazil, India and the United States. A total of 731 males and females scoring within the moderate-risk range of the ASSIST for cannabis, cocaine, amphetamine-type stimulants or opioids. ASSIST-specific substance involvement scores for cannabis, stimulants or opioids and ASSIST total illicit substance involvement score at baseline and 3 months post-randomization. Omnibus analyses indicated that those receiving the BI had significantly reduced scores for all measures, compared with control participants. Country-specific analyses showed that, with the exception of the site in the United States, BI participants had significantly lower ASSIST total illicit substance involvement scores at follow-up compared with the control participants. The sites in India and Brazil demonstrated a very strong brief intervention effect for cannabis scores (P < 0.005 for both sites), as did the sites in Australia (P < 0.005) and Brazil (P < 0.01) for stimulant scores and the Indian site for opioid scores (P < 0.01). The Alcohol, Smoking and Substance Involvement Screening Test-linked brief intervention aimed at reducing illicit substance use and related risks is effective, at least in the short term, and the effect generalizes across countries. © 2011 The Authors, Addiction © 2011 Society for the Study of Addiction.

Transactivation of TrkB by Sigma-1 receptor mediates cocaine-induced changes in dendritic spine density and morphology in hippocampal and cortical neurons

PubMed Central

Ka, Minhan; Kook, Yeon-Hee; Liao, Ke; Buch, Shilpa; Kim, Woo-Yang

2016-01-01

Cocaine is a highly addictive narcotic associated with dendritic spine plasticity in the striatum. However, it remains elusive whether cocaine modifies spines in a cell type-specific or region-specific manner or whether it alters different types of synapses in the brain. In addition, there is a paucity of data on the regulatory mechanism(s) involved in cocaine-induced modification of spine density. In the current study, we report that cocaine exposure differentially alters spine density, spine morphology, and the types of synapses in hippocampal and cortical neurons. Cocaine exposure in the hippocampus resulted in increased spine density, but had no significant effect on cortical neurons. Although cocaine exposure altered spine morphology in both cell types, the patterns of spine morphology were distinct for each cell type. Furthermore, we observed that cocaine selectively affects the density of excitatory synapses. Intriguingly, in hippocampal neurons cocaine-mediated effects on spine density and morphology involved sigma-1 receptor (Sig-1 R) and its downstream TrkB signaling, which were not the case in cortical neurons. Furthermore, pharmacological inhibition of Sig-1 R prevented cocaine-induced TrkB activation in hippocampal neurons. Our findings reveal a novel mechanism by which cocaine induces selective changes in spine morphology, spine density, and synapse formation, and could provide insights into the cellular basis for the cognitive impairment observed in cocaine addicts. PMID:27735948

Meta-Analysis of Effect Sizes Reported at Multiple Time Points Using General Linear Mixed Model.

PubMed

Musekiwa, Alfred; Manda, Samuel O M; Mwambi, Henry G; Chen, Ding-Geng

2016-01-01

Meta-analysis of longitudinal studies combines effect sizes measured at pre-determined time points. The most common approach involves performing separate univariate meta-analyses at individual time points. This simplistic approach ignores dependence between longitudinal effect sizes, which might result in less precise parameter estimates. In this paper, we show how to conduct a meta-analysis of longitudinal effect sizes where we contrast different covariance structures for dependence between effect sizes, both within and between studies. We propose new combinations of covariance structures for the dependence between effect size and utilize a practical example involving meta-analysis of 17 trials comparing postoperative treatments for a type of cancer, where survival is measured at 6, 12, 18 and 24 months post randomization. Although the results from this particular data set show the benefit of accounting for within-study serial correlation between effect sizes, simulations are required to confirm these results.

LIGHT/TNFSF14 is increased in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and promotes islet cell dysfunction and endothelial cell inflammation in vitro.

PubMed

Halvorsen, Bente; Santilli, Francesca; Scholz, Hanne; Sahraoui, Afaf; Gulseth, Hanne L; Wium, Cecilie; Lattanzio, Stefano; Formoso, Gloria; Di Fulvio, Patrizia; Otterdal, Kari; Retterstøl, Kjetil; Holven, Kirsten B; Gregersen, Ida; Stavik, Benedicte; Bjerkeli, Vigdis; Michelsen, Annika E; Ueland, Thor; Liani, Rossella; Davi, Giovanni; Aukrust, Pål

2016-10-01

Activation of inflammatory pathways is involved in the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes mellitus. On the basis of its role in vascular inflammation and in metabolic disorders, we hypothesised that the TNF superfamily (TNFSF) member 14 (LIGHT/TNFSF14) could be involved in the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Plasma levels of LIGHT were measured in two cohorts of type 2 diabetes mellitus patients (191 Italian and 40 Norwegian). Human pancreatic islet cells and arterial endothelial cells were used to explore regulation and relevant effects of LIGHT in vitro. Our major findings were: (1) in both diabetic cohorts, plasma levels of LIGHT were significantly raised compared with sex- and age-matched healthy controls (n = 32); (2) enhanced release from activated platelets seems to be an important contributor to the raised LIGHT levels in type 2 diabetes mellitus; (3) in human pancreatic islet cells, inflammatory cytokines increased the release of LIGHT and upregulated mRNA and protein levels of the LIGHT receptors lymphotoxin β receptor (LTβR) and TNF receptor superfamily member 14 (HVEM/TNFRSF14); (4) in these cells, LIGHT attenuated the insulin release in response to high glucose at least partly via pro-apoptotic effects; and (5) in human arterial endothelial cells, glucose boosted inflammatory response to LIGHT, accompanied by an upregulation of mRNA levels of HVEM (also known as TNFRSF14) and LTβR (also known as LTBR). Our findings show that patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus are characterised by increased plasma LIGHT levels. Our in vitro findings suggest that LIGHT may contribute to the progression of type 2 diabetes mellitus by attenuating insulin secretion in pancreatic islet cells and by contributing to vascular inflammation.

Temporal Response of Angiogenesis and Hypertrophy to Resistance Training in Young Men.

PubMed

Holloway, Tanya M; Snijders, Tim; VAN Kranenburg, Janneau; VAN Loon, Luc J C; Verdijk, Lex B

2018-01-01

Although endurance exercise training promotes angiogenesis and improves metabolic health, the effect of resistance training on this process is less well defined. We hypothesized that capillarization would increase proportionally, and concurrently, with muscle fiber hypertrophy in response to resistance training in young men. In this double-blind, randomized control trial, 36 men (22 ± 1 yr) were randomized to placebo or protein supplementation, and participated in 12 wk of resistance training. Skeletal muscle biopsies were collected before and after 2, 4, 8, and 12 wk of training. Immunohistochemistry assessed fiber type-specific size and capillarization. Western blot and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction assessed proteins involved in the molecular regulation of angiogenesis. Resistance training effectively increased Type I (15% ± 4%; P < 0.01) and Type II fiber cross-sectional area (28% ± 5%; P < 0.0001), an effect that tended to be further enhanced with protein supplementation in Type II fibers (P = 0.078). Capillary-to-fiber ratio significantly increased in Type I (P = 0.001) and II (P = 0.015) fibers after 12 wk of resistance exercise training and was evident after only 2 wk. Capillary-to-fiber perimeter exchange index increased in the Type I fibers only (P = 0.054) after 12 wk of training. Training resulted in a reduction in vascular endothelial growth factor mRNA. A (P = 0.008), while vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (P = 0.016), hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (P = 0.016), and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (P = 0.01) increased in both groups. Hypoxia-inducible factor 1α protein content was higher in the protein group (main group effect, P = 0.02), and endothelial nitric oxide synthase content demonstrated a divergent relationship (time-group interaction, P = 0.049). This study presents novel evidence that microvascular adaptations and the molecular pathways involved are elevated after 2 wk of a 12-wk resistance training program. Increases in muscle fiber cross-sectional area are effectively matched by the changes in the microvasculature, providing further support for resistance training programs to optimize metabolic health.

Association between school bullying levels/types and mental health problems among Taiwanese adolescents.

PubMed

Yen, Cheng-Fang; Yang, Pinchen; Wang, Peng-Wei; Lin, Huang-Chi; Liu, Tai-Ling; Wu, Yu-Yu; Tang, Tze-Chun

2014-04-01

Few studies have compared the risks of mental health problems among the adolescents with different levels and different types of bullying involvement experiences. Bullying involvement in 6,406 adolescents was determined through use of the Chinese version of the School Bullying Experience Questionnaire. Data were collected regarding the mental health problems, including depression, suicidality, insomnia, general anxiety, social phobia, alcohol abuse, inattention, and hyperactivity/impulsivity. The association between experiences of bullying involvement and mental health problems was examined. The risk of mental health problems was compared among those with different levels/types of bullying involvement. The results found that being a victim of any type of bullying and being a perpetrator of passive bullying were significantly associated with all kinds of mental health problems, and being a perpetrator of active bullying was significantly associated with all kinds of mental health problems except for general anxiety. Victims or perpetrators of both passive and active bullying had a greater risk of some dimensions of mental health problems than those involved in only passive or active bullying. Differences in the risk of mental health problems were also found among adolescents involved in different types of bullying. This difference in comorbid mental health problems should be taken into consideration when assessing adolescents involved in different levels/types of bullying. © 2014.

A systematic review and meta-analysis of type 2 diabetes mellitus treatment based on the "three-typed syndrome differentiation" theory in Chinese medicine.

PubMed

Yan, Xiu-feng; Ni, Qing; Wei, Jun-ping; Lin, Lan

2014-08-01

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of "Three-Typed Syndrome Differentiation" (TTSD) in treating type 2 diabetes mellitus patients. A systematic review and meta-analysis was done based on the clinical diabetes treatment literature of the "TTSD". Overseas databases like the PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Library and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Clinical Trials, and China databases like China Biology Medicine Disc (CBM), Chinese national Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wanfang database, and VIP database, without limitation on language, were included with the time limitation from Jan 1982 to Dec 2012 by retrieval of relative original clinical research articles. Nineteen articles where contains 1,840 diabetes patients were obtained, in which no adverse reactions were reported. Of these, 14 literatures involved the effect of fasting blood glucose (FBG), 10 involved that of postprandial 2-h blood glucose (P2hBG), and 19 involved the overall efficacy based on the national Chinese medicine (CM) diagnosis and treatment standard of diabetes. All the meta-analysis results prefer to the "TTSD" groups (CM+Western medicine Based on TTSD). The results show that, beside the efficacy of Western medicine, the concentrations of FBG and P2hBG in "TTSD" groups continue to drop with statistical significance. For "TTSD" groups, the FBG subsequently dropped 1.03 mmol/L, 95%CI [1.24,0.82] P <0.00001), the P2hBG subsequently dropped 1.09 mmol/L, 95% CI [1.61, 0.57] (P <0.0001), and the overall efficacies benefit 3.46 times those of Western medicine alone, 95% CI [2.67,4.48] (P <0.00001). The CM by the diagnosis and treatment of type 2 diabetes based on TTSD might be safe and effective, and could better improve both blood glucose and the overall status of patients, including symptoms.

L-type calcium channel blockade attenuates morphine withdrawal: in vivo interaction between L-type calcium channels and corticosterone.

PubMed

Esmaeili-Mahani, Saeed; Fathi, Yadollah; Motamedi, Fereshteh; Hosseinpanah, Farhad; Ahmadiani, Abolhassan

2008-02-01

Both opioids and calcium channel blockers could affect hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis function. Nifedipine, as a calcium channel blocker, can attenuate the development of morphine dependence; however, the role of the HPA axis in this effect has not been elucidated. We examined the effect of nifedipine on the induction of morphine dependency in intact and adrenalectomized (ADX) male rats, as assessed by the naloxone precipitation test. We also evaluated the effect of this drug on HPA activity induced by naloxone. Our results showed that despite the demonstration of dependence in both groups of rats, nifedipine is more effective in preventing of withdrawal signs in ADX rats than in sham-operated rats. In groups that received morphine and nifedipine concomitantly, naloxone-induced corticosterone secretion was attenuated. Thus, we have shown the involvement of the HPA axis in the effect of nifedipine on the development of morphine dependency and additionally demonstrated an in vivo interaction between the L-type Ca2+ channels and corticosterone.

Scaffolding for Argumentation in Hypothetical and Theoretical Biology Concepts

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Weng, Wan-Yun; Lin, Yu-Ren; She, Hsiao-Ching

2017-01-01

The present study investigated the effects of online argumentation scaffolding on students' argumentation involving hypothetical and theoretical biological concepts. Two types of scaffolding were developed in order to improve student argumentation: continuous scaffolding and withdraw scaffolding. A quasi-experimental design was used with four…

Comparative analysis of the skeletal changes in tetrapods after brief influence of microgravity.

PubMed

Nikitin, V B; Gulimova, V I; Ilyin, E A; Asadchikov, V E; Buzmakov, A V; Okshtein, I L; Saveliev, S V

2007-07-01

Experiments involving lower tetrapods demonstrate that the degree of skeletal demineralization in spaceflights is related to the type of environmental behaviour of the animal. Probably the sensing of support reaction decreases the negative effect of spaceflight upon the bone tissue.

Evaluating Neurotoxicity of a Mixture of Five OP Pesticides Using a Composite Score

EPA Science Inventory

The evaluation of the cumulative effects of neurotoxic pesticides often involves the analysis of both neurochemical and behavioral endpoints. Multiple statistical tests on many endpoints can greatly inflate Type I error rates. Multiple comparison adjustments are often overly con...

Type III Neuregulin-1 is required for normal sensorimotor gating, memory related behaviors and cortico-striatal circuit components

PubMed Central

Chen, Ying-Jiun J.; Johnson, Madeleine A.; Lieberman, Michael D.; Goodchild, Rose E.; Schobel, Scott; Lewandowski, Nicole; Rosoklija, Gorazd; Liu, Ruei-Che; Gingrich, Jay A.; Small, Scott; Moore, Holly; Dwork, Andrew J.; Talmage, David A.; Role, Lorna W.

2008-01-01

Neuregulin-1 (Nrg1)/erbB signaling regulates neuronal development, migration, myelination, and synaptic maintenance. The Nrg1 gene is a schizophrenia susceptibility gene. To understand the contribution of Nrg1 signaling to adult brain structure and behaviors, we have studied the regulation of Type III Nrg1 expression and evaluated the effect of decreased expression of the Type III Nrg1 isoforms. Type III Nrg1 is transcribed by a promoter distinct from those for other Nrg1 isoforms and, in the adult brain, is expressed in the medial prefrontal cortex, ventral hippocampus and ventral subiculum, regions involved in the regulation of sensorimotor gating and short term memory. Adult heterozygous mutant mice with a targeted disruption for Type III Nrg1 (Nrg1tm1.1Lwr+/-) have enlarged lateral ventricles and decreased dendritic spine density on subicular pyramidal neurons. MRI imaging of Type III Nrg1 heterozygous mice revealed hypo-function in the medial prefrontal cortex and the hippocampal CA1 and subiculum regions. Type III Nrg1 heterozygous mice also have impaired performance on delayed alternation memory tasks, and deficits in prepulse inhibition (PPI). Chronic nicotine treatment eliminated differences in PPI between Type III Nrg1 heterozygous mice and their wild type littermates. Our findings demonstrate a role of Type III Nrg1-signaling in the maintenance of cortico-striatal components, and in the neural circuits involved in sensorimotor gating and short term memory. PMID:18596162

Effects of high- and low-velocity resistance training on the contractile properties of skeletal muscle fibers from young and older humans

PubMed Central

Larkin, Lisa M.; Cederna, Paul S.; Horowitz, Jeffrey F.; Alexander, Neil B.; Cole, Neil M.; Galecki, Andrzej T.; Chen, Shu; Nyquist, Linda V.; Carlson, Bruce M.; Faulkner, John A.; Ashton-Miller, James A.

2011-01-01

A two-arm, prospective, randomized, controlled trial study was conducted to investigate the effects of movement velocity during progressive resistance training (PRT) on the size and contractile properties of individual fibers from human vastus lateralis muscles. The effects of age and sex were examined by a design that included 63 subjects organized into four groups: young (20–30 yr) men and women, and older (65–80 yr) men and women. In each group, one-half of the subjects underwent a traditional PRT protocol that involved shortening contractions at low velocities against high loads, while the other half performed a modified PRT protocol that involved contractions at 3.5 times higher velocity against reduced loads. Muscles were sampled by needle biopsy before and after the 14-wk PRT program, and functional tests were performed on permeabilized individual fiber segments isolated from the biopsies. We tested the hypothesis that, compared with low-velocity PRT, high-velocity PRT results in a greater increase in the cross-sectional area, force, and power of type 2 fibers. Both types of PRT increased the cross-sectional area, force, and power of type 2 fibers by 8–12%, independent of the sex or age of the subject. Contrary to our hypothesis, the velocity at which the PRT was performed did not affect the fiber-level outcomes substantially. We conclude that, compared with low-velocity PRT, resistance training performed at velocities up to 3.5 times higher against reduced loads is equally effective for eliciting an adaptive response in type 2 fibers from human skeletal muscle. PMID:21799130

Aldosterone Target NGAL (Neutrophil Gelatinase-Associated Lipocalin) Is Involved in Cardiac Remodeling After Myocardial Infarction Through NFκB Pathway.

PubMed

Martínez-Martínez, Ernesto; Buonafine, Mathieu; Boukhalfa, Ines; Ibarrola, Jaime; Fernández-Celis, Amaya; Kolkhof, Peter; Rossignol, Patrick; Girerd, Nicolas; Mulder, Paul; López-Andrés, Natalia; Ouvrard-Pascaud, Antoine; Jaisser, Frédéric

2017-12-01

Myocardial infarction (MI) is accompanied by cardiac fibrosis, which contributes to cardiac dysfunction. Mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) antagonists have beneficial effects in patients with left ventricular (LV) dysfunction after MI. We herein investigated the role of the MR target NGAL (neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin) in post-MI cardiac damages. Both higher baseline NGAL and a greater increase in serum NGAL levels during follow-up were significantly associated with lower 6-month LV ejection fraction recovery in a cohort of 119 post-MI patients, as assessed by cardiac magnetic resonance imaging. NGAL protein levels increased in the LV at 7 days post-MI in wild-type mice with MI. This effect was prevented by treatment with the nonsteroidal MR antagonist finerenone (1 mg/kg per day). NGAL knockout mice with MI had lower LV interstitial fibrosis and inflammation, better LV contractility and compliance, and greater stroke volume and cardiac output than wild-type mice with MI at 3 months post-MI. Aldosterone (10 -8 mol/L) increased NGAL expression in cultured human cardiac fibroblasts. Cells treated with aldosterone or NGAL (500 ng/mL) showed increased production of collagen type I. The effects of aldosterone were abolished by finerenone (10 -6 mol/L) or NGAL knockdown. This NGAL-mediated activity relied on NFκB (nuclear factor-κB) activation, confirmed by the use of the NFκB-specific inhibitor BAY11-7082, which prevented the effect of both aldosterone and NGAL on collagen type I production. In conclusion, NGAL, a downstream MR activation target, is a key mediator of post-MI cardiac damage. NGAL may be a potential therapeutic target in cardiovascular pathological situations in which MR is involved. © 2017 American Heart Association, Inc.

Influence of different types of light on the response of the pulp tissue in dental bleaching: a systematic review.

PubMed

Benetti, Francine; Lemos, Cleidiel Aparecido Araújo; de Oliveira Gallinari, Marjorie; Terayama, Amanda Miyuki; Briso, André Luiz Fraga; de Castilho Jacinto, Rogério; Sivieri-Araújo, Gustavo; Cintra, Luciano Tavares Angelo

2018-05-01

This systematic review (PROSPERO register: CRD42016053140) investigated the influence of different types of light on the pulp tissue during dental bleaching. Two independent authors conducted a systematic search and risk of bias evaluations. An electronic search was undertaken (PubMed/Medline, Embase, The Cochrane Library, and other databases) until May 2017. The population, intervention, comparison, outcomes (PICO) question was: "Does the light in dental bleaching change the response of the pulp to the bleaching procedure?" The intervention involved pulp tissue/cells after bleaching with light, while the comparison involved pulp tissue/cells after bleaching without light. The primary outcome was the inflammation/cytotoxicity observed in pulp after bleaching. Out of 2210 articles found, 12 articles were included in the review; four were in vivo studies (one study in dogs/others in human), and eight were in vitro studies (cell culture/with artificial pulp chamber or not). The light source used was halogen, light-emitting diode (LED), and laser. Only one in vivo study that used heat to simulate light effects showed significant pulp inflammation. Only two in vitro studies demonstrated that light influenced cell metabolism; one using halogen light indicated negative effects, and the other using laser therapy indicated positive effects. Given that animal and in vitro studies have been identified, there remain some limitations for extrapolation to the human situation. Furthermore, different light parameters were used. The effects of dental bleaching on the pulp are not influenced by different types of light, but different light parameters can influence these properties. There is insufficient evidence about the influence of different types of light on inflammation/cytotoxicity of the pulp.

Receptor type I and type II binding regions and the peptidyl-prolyl isomerase site of cyclophilin B are required for enhancement of T-lymphocyte adhesion to fibronectin.

PubMed

Carpentier, Mathieu; Allain, Fabrice; Slomianny, Marie-Christine; Durieux, Sandrine; Vanpouille, Christophe; Haendler, Bernard; Spik, Geneviève

2002-04-23

Cyclophilin B (CyPB), a cyclosporin A (CsA) binding protein, interacts with two types of binding sites at the surface of T-lymphocytes. The type I sites correspond to functional receptors involved in endocytosis and the type II sites to sulfated glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). Mutational analysis of CyPB has revealed that W128, which is part of the CsA-binding pocket, is implicated in the binding to the functional type I receptors and that two amino acid clusters located in the N-terminus ensure the binding to GAGs. The peptidyl-prolyl isomerase activity of CyPB is not required for receptor binding. We have recently demonstrated that CyPB enhances adhesion of peripheral blood T-lymphocytes to fibronectin, a component of the extracellular matrix. We intended to identify additional amino acids involved in the binding of CyPB to its functional type I receptor and to determine regions responsible for the stimulation of peripheral blood T-lymphocyte adhesion. We determined that residues R76, G77, K132, D155, and D158 of the calcineurin (CN) interacting region were implicated in the recognition of type I receptor but not of GAGs. We also found that two different changes in the N-terminal extension that abated binding to GAGs prevented adhesion of peripheral blood T-lymphocytes to coated CyPB, whereas abbrogation of the PPIase activity had no effect. On the other hand, the adhesion of peripheral blood T-lymphocytes to coated fibronectin was not stimulated by CyPB mutants devoid of either type I receptor or GAGs binding activity or by mutants of the PPIase site. Altogether, the results demonstrate that different regions of CyPB are involved in peripheral blood T-lymphocyte activation and imply a novel important physiological function for peptidyl-prolyl isomerase activity.

Patient involvement in diabetes care: experiences in nine diabetes care groups

PubMed Central

de Bruin, Simone R.; Struijs, Jeroen N.; Rijken, Mieke; Nijpels, Giel; Baan, Caroline A.

2015-01-01

Introduction Despite the expected beneficial effects on quality of care, patient involvement in diabetes care groups, which deliver a bundled paid integrated care programme for diabetes type 2, seems to be limited. The aim of this study was to gain insight into levels and methods of patient involvement, into facilitators and barriers, and into the future preferences of care groups and patient representatives. Theory and methods Semi-structured interviews were held with 10 representatives of care groups and 11 representatives of patient advocacy groups. An adapted version of Arnstein's ladder of citizen participation was used to define five levels of patient involvement. Results Patient involvement in care groups was mostly limited to informing and consulting patients. Higher levels, i.e., advising, co-producing and decision-making, were less frequently observed. Care groups and patient representatives perceived largely the same barriers and facilitators and had similar preferences regarding future themes and design of patient involvement. Conclusion Constructive collaboration between diabetes care groups and patient representatives to enhance patient involvement in the future seems viable. Several issues such as the lack of evidence for effectiveness of patient involvement, differences in viewpoints on the role and responsibilities of care groups and perceived barriers need to be addressed. PMID:27118961

25 CFR 900.234 - What types of personal conflicts of interest involving tribal officers, employees or...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 25 Indians 2 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false What types of personal conflicts of interest involving... ASSISTANCE ACT Conflicts of Interest § 900.234 What types of personal conflicts of interest involving tribal... in which that person has a financial or employment interest that conflicts with that of the trust...

Disordered gambling, type of gambling and gambling involvement in the British Gambling Prevalence Survey 2007

PubMed Central

Nelson, Sarah E.; LaBrie, Richard A.; Shaffer, Howard J.

2011-01-01

Background: The purpose of this study was to examine the relationships between types of gambling and disordered gambling, with and without controlling for gambling involvement (i.e. the number of types of games with which respondents were involved during the past 12 months). Methods: We completed a secondary data analysis of the 2007 British Gambling Prevalence Survey (BGPS), which collected data in England, Scotland and Wales between September 2006 and March 2007. The sample included 9003 residents, aged 16 or older, recruited from 10 144 randomly selected addresses. 5832 households contributed at least one participant. Post-facto weighting to produce a nationally representative sample yielded 8968 observations. The BGPS included four primary types of measures: participation in gambling (during the past 12 months and during the past 7 days), disordered gambling assessments, attitudes toward gambling and descriptive information. Results: Statistically controlling for gambling involvement substantially reduced or eliminated all statistically significant relationships between types of gambling and disordered gambling. Conclusions: Gambling involvement is an important predictor of disordered gambling status. Our analysis indicates that greater gambling involvement better characterizes disordered gambling than does any specific type of gambling. PMID:19892851

Nonlinear ring resonator: spatial pattern generation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ivanov, Vladimir Y.; Lachinova, Svetlana L.; Irochnikov, Nikita G.

2000-03-01

We consider theoretically spatial pattern formation processes in a unidirectional ring cavity with thin layer of Kerr-type nonlinear medium. Our method is based on studying of two coupled equations. The first is a partial differential equation for temporal dynamics of phase modulation of light wave in the medium. It describes nonlinear interaction in the Kerr-type lice. The second is a free propagation equation for the intracavity field complex amplitude. It involves diffraction effects of light wave in the cavity.

Emerging treatments in alopecia.

PubMed

Falto-Aizpurua, Leyre; Choudhary, Sonal; Tosti, Antonella

2014-12-01

Alopecia is a common concern encountered in the medical practice. Treatment approach varies according to the type and severity of alopecia. However, available treatment options have limited efficacy and several adverse effects. Presently, there are different treatment options being studied to overcome these limitations. Additionally, cellular pathways involved in the pathophysiology of alopecia are further being clarified to potentially target pathogenic molecules. We searched the literature for recently published articles discussing new treatment options as well as mechanisms involved in alopecia. We discuss the use of stem cells, growth factors, cellular pathways and robotic hair transplant, among other emerging therapies used for alopecia. Future looks very promising and new effective treatments such as janus kinase inhibitors could possibly be available for alopecia areata. The stem-cell technology is advancing and companies involved in hair follicle neogenesis are starting clinical trials on patients with androgenetic alopecia.

The effects of stakeholder involvement on perceptions of an evaluation's credibility.

PubMed

Jacobson, Miriam R; Azzam, Tarek

2018-06-01

This article presents a study of the effects of stakeholder involvement on perceptions of an evaluation's credibility. Crowdsourced members of the public and a group of educational administrators read a description of a hypothetical program and two evaluations of the program: one conducted by a researcher and one conducted by program staff (i.e. program stakeholders). Study participants were randomly assigned versions of the scenario with different levels of stakeholder credibility and types of findings. Results showed that both samples perceived the researcher's evaluation findings to be more credible than the program staff's, but that this difference was significantly reduced when the program staff were described to be highly credible. The article concludes with implications for theory and research on evaluation dissemination and stakeholder involvement. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Augmentation of Breast Cancer Growth and Metastasis by Chronic Stressor Exposure

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-07-01

good model for examining NE effects on the tumor stromal cells in the absence of direct involvement of β-AR-expressing tumor cells . In that report...SHG+ fiber content also directly inhibit tumor metastasis, perhaps through direct effects on tumor cell motility, and that this inhibition is induced... effects in different cell types within a tumor that contribute to tumor progression. Nevertheless, the overall result is a protumorigenic signal that

Bioelectrical activity of limb muscles during cold shivering of stimulation of the vestibular apparatus

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kuzmina, G. I.

1980-01-01

The effects of caloric and electric stimulation of the vestibular receptors on the EMG activity of limb muslces in anesthetized cats during cold induced shivering involved flexor muscles alone. Both types of stimulation suppressed bioelectrical activity more effectively in the ipsilateral muscles. The suppression of shivering activity seems to be due to the increased inhibitory effect of descending labyrinth pathways on the function of flexor motoneurons.

A Twenty-First Century Cancer Epidemic Caused by Obesity: The Involvement of Insulin, Diabetes, and Insulin-Like Growth Factors

PubMed Central

Westley, Rosalyne L.; May, Felicity E. B.

2013-01-01

Obesity has reached epidemic proportions in the developed world. The progression from obesity to diabetes mellitus type 2, via metabolic syndrome, is recognised, and the significant associated increase in the risk of major human cancers acknowledged. We review the molecular basis of the involvement of morbidly high concentrations of endogenous or therapeutic insulin and of insulin-like growth factors in the progression from obesity to diabetes and finally to cancer. Epidemiological and biochemical studies establish the role of insulin and hyperinsulinaemia in cancer risk and progression. Insulin-like growth factors, IGF-1 and IGF-2, secreted by visceral or mammary adipose tissue have significant paracrine and endocrine effects. These effects can be exacerbated by increased steroid hormone production. Structural studies elucidate how each of the three ligands, insulin, IGF-1, and IGF-2, interacts differently with isoforms A and B of the insulin receptor and with type I IGF receptor and explain how these protagonists contribute to diabetes-associated cancer. The above should inform appropriate treatment of cancers that arise in obese individuals and in those with diabetes mellitus type 2. Novel drugs that target the insulin and insulin-like growth factor signal transduction pathways are in clinical trial and should be effective if appropriate biomarker-informed patient stratification is implemented. PMID:23983688

Exploring the Educational Involvement of Parents of English Learners

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Vera, Elizabeth M.; Israel, Marla Susman; Coyle, Laura; Cross, Joanna; Knight-Lynn, Laura; Moallem, Isabel; Bartucci, Gina; Goldberger, Nancy

2012-01-01

The purpose of the current investigation was to examine the relationships among a range of specific barriers and facilitators of parent involvement and a variety of types of school involvement within a diverse group of immigrant parents of English Learners (ELs) in four elementary school districts. In-home types of educational involvement such as…

Improvement of diabetes, obesity and hypertension in type 2 diabetic KKA{sup y} mice by bis(allixinato)oxovanadium(IV) complex

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

Adachi, Yusuke; Yoshikawa, Yutaka; Yoshida, Jiro

Previously, we found that bis(allixinato)oxovanadium(IV) (VO(alx){sub 2}) exhibits a potent hypoglycemic activity in type 1-like diabetic mice. Since the enhancement of insulin sensitivity is involved in one of the mechanisms by which vanadium exerts its anti-diabetic effects, VO(alx){sub 2} was further tested in type 2 diabetes with low insulin sensitivity. The effect of oral administration of VO(alx){sub 2} was examined in obesity-linked type 2 diabetic KKA{sup y} mice. Treatment of VO(alx){sub 2} for 4 weeks normalized hyperglycemia, glucose intolerance, hyperinsulinemia, hypercholesterolemia and hypertension in KKA{sup y} mice; however, it had no effect on hypoadiponectinemia. VO(alx){sub 2} also improved hyperleptinemia, followingmore » attenuation of obesity in KKA{sup y} mice. This is the first example in which a vanadium compound improved leptin resistance in type 2 diabetes by oral administration. On the basis of these results, VO(alx){sub 2} is proposed to enhance not only insulin sensitivity but also leptin sensitivity, which in turn improves diabetes, obesity and hypertension in an obesity-linked type 2 diabetic animal.« less

Nicotine recruits a local glutamatergic circuit to excite septohippocampal GABAergic neurons.

PubMed

Wu, Min; Hajszan, Tibor; Leranth, Csaba; Alreja, Meenakshi

2003-09-01

Tonic impulse flow in the septohippocampal GABAergic pathway is essential for normal cognitive functioning and is sustained, in part, by acetylcholine (ACh) that is released locally via axon collaterals of septohippocampal cholinergic neurons. Septohippocampal cholinergic neurons degenerate in Alzheimer's disease and other neurodegenerative disorders. While the importance of the muscarinic effects of ACh on septohippocampal GABAergic neurons is well recognized, the nicotinic effects of ACh remain unstudied despite the reported benefits of nicotine on cognitive functioning. In the present study, using electrophysiological recordings in a rat brain slice preparation, rapid applications of nicotine excited 90% of retrogradely labelled septohippocampal GABA-type neurons with an EC50 of 17 microm and increased the frequency of spontaneously occurring, impulse-dependent fast GABAergic and glutamatergic synaptic currents via the alpha4beta2-nicotinic receptor. Interestingly, tetrodotoxin blocked all effects of nicotine on septohippocampal GABAergic type neurons, suggesting involvement of indirect mechanisms. We demonstrate that the effects of nicotine on septohippocampal GABA-type neurons involve recruitment of a novel, local glutamatergic circuitry as (i). Group I metabotropic glutamatergic receptor antagonists reduced the effects of nicotine; (ii). the number of nicotine responsive neurons was significantly reduced in recordings from slices that had been trimmed so as to reduce the number of glutamate-containing neurons within the slice preparation; (iii). in light and ultrastructural double immunocytochemical labelling studies vesicular glutamate 2 transporter immunoreactive terminals made synaptic contacts with parvalbumin-immunoreactive septohippocampal GABAergic neurons. The discovery of a local glutamatergic circuit within the septum may provide another avenue for restoring septohippocampal GABAergic functions in neurodegenerative disorders associated with a loss of septohippocampal cholinergic neurons.

Evolution of collagen arthritis in mice is arrested by treatment with anti-tumour necrosis factor (TNF) antibody or a recombinant soluble TNF receptor.

PubMed Central

Piguet, P F; Grau, G E; Vesin, C; Loetscher, H; Gentz, R; Lesslauer, W

1992-01-01

Immunization of DBA/1 mice with type II collagen within complete Freund's adjuvant leads to arthritis, lasting more than 3 months. Injection of anti-tumour necrosis factor (TNF) IgG, 2 and 3 weeks after immunization prevented the development of arthritis in the following months. This treatment had no effect when started 2 months after induction of the disease. A soluble form of the human recombinant TNF receptor type-beta (rsTNFR-beta), continuously infused at a rate of 20 micrograms/day during the second and third week after immunization, also had a long-term protective effect. Anti-TNF antibody had no effect upon the production of anti-type II collagen antibodies. These results indicate that TNF is critically involved in an early phase of this arthritis. Images Figure 1 Figure 2 PMID:1337334

A study on the development of public campaign messages for organ donation promotion in Korea.

PubMed

Sun, Hye-Jin

2015-12-01

This study aims to find an effective method of expressing a message in public service ads by investigating whether or not a message framing type affects the outcome. Specifically, the study looks into the effects of messaging on organ donation by identifying how the type of message framing (positive vs. negative) and appeal type (rational vs. emotional) affect the attitude and behavioural intention of the consumer. The individual characteristics of each subject such as altruistic mind, level of self-monitoring and issue involvement were selected as intermediate variables that may affect the impact of a message. The study therefore tries to establish a proposition that can be used to generate an effective promotional message on organ donation in a systematic way. © The Author (2014). Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Effect of hypergravity on lignin formation and expression of lignin-related genes in inflorescence stems of an ethylene-insensitive Arabidopsis mutant ein3-1

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Karahara, Ichirou; Kobayashi, Mai; Tamaoki, Daisuke; Kamisaka, Seiichiro

Our previous studies have shown that hypergravity inhibits growth and promotes lignin forma-tion in inflorescence stems of Arabidopsis thaliana by up-regulation of genes involved in lignin biosynthesis (Tamaoki et al. 2006, 2009). In the present study, we have examined whether ethylene is involved in these responses using an ethylene-insensitive Arabidopsis mutant ein3-1. Our results revealed that hypergravity treatment at 300 G for 24 h significantly inhibited growth of inflorescence stems, promoted both deposition of acetyl bromide extractable lignin and gene expression involved in lignin formation in inflorescence stems of wild type plants. Growth inhibition of inflorescence stems was also observed in ein3-1. However, the effects of hypergravity on the promotion of the deposition of acetyl bromide lignin and the expression of genes involved in lignin formation were not observed in ein3-1, indicating that ethylene sig-naling is involved in the up-regulation of the expression of lignin-related genes as well as the promotion of deposition of lignin by hypergravity in Arabidopsis inflorescence stems.

Leg Muscle Involvement in Facioscapulohumeral Muscular Dystrophy: Comparison between Facioscapulohumeral Muscular Dystrophy Types 1 and 2.

PubMed

Mair, Dorothea; Huegens-Penzel, Monika; Kress, Wolfram; Roth, Christian; Ferbert, Andreas

2017-01-01

Facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD) presents with 2 genetically distinct types. We describe for the first time the MRI patterns of leg muscle involvement in type 2 and compare it with type 1. The intramuscular fat content was assessed on lower extremity axial T1-weighted MRI scans in 6 FSHD1 and 5 FSHD2 patients. Overall, the muscle involvement profile did not differ substantially between FSHD1 and FSHD2. In the thigh, the dorsomedial compartment including the semimembranosus, semitendinosus and adductor magnus was the most affected. The quadriceps was mostly spared, but isolated involvement of the rectus femoris was common. Fat infiltration in the distal soleus and the medial gastrocnemius with sparing of the lateral gastrocnemius was a common finding; involvement of the tibialis anterior was less frequent. A proximal-to-distal increase in fat content was frequently present in some muscles. Muscle involvement appears to be independent of type, confirming a similar pathophysiological pathway in FSHD1 and FSHD2. © 2016 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Effects of Gloss Type on Text Recall and Incidental Vocabulary Learning in Mobile-Assisted L2 Listening

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Çakmak, Fidel; Erçetin, Gülcan

2018-01-01

This study investigates the effects of multimedia glosses on text recall and incidental vocabulary learning in a mobile-assisted L2 listening task. A total of 88 participants with a low level of proficiency in English were randomly assigned to one of four conditions that involved single channel (textual-only, pictorial-only) and dual-channel…

"Deterrability" among Gang and Nongang Juvenile Offenders: Are Gang Members More (or Less) Deterrable than Other Juvenile Offenders?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Maxson, Cheryl L.; Matsuda, Kristy N.; Hennigan, Karen

2011-01-01

This study investigates the effect of the threat of legal sanctions on intentions to commit three types of offenses with a representative sample of 744 officially adjudicated youth with varying histories of offenses and gang involvement. In a departure from previous research, the authors find small severity effects for property crimes that are not…

Drop tube technical tasks

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Workman, G. L.

1986-01-01

Criteria, using fundamental thermochemical dynamics, were developed to assist a scientist using the Drop Tube Facility in designing a good experiment. The types of parameters involved in designing the experiments include the type of furnace, the type of atmosphere, and in general which materials are better behaved than others as determined by past experience in the facility. One of the major advantages of the facility lies in its ability to provide large undercoolings in the cooling curve during the drops. A beginning was to consider the effect of oxygen and other gases upon the amount of undercooling observed. The starting point of the thermochemistry was given by Ellingham and later transformed into what is known as the Richardson Chart. The effect of surface oxidations upon the nucleation phenomena can be observed in each specimen.

A systematic review of the evidence on service user involvement in interpersonal skills training of mental health students.

PubMed

Perry, J; Watkins, M; Gilbert, A; Rawlinson, J

2013-08-01

Service user involvement has become a common feature of education programmes for mental health students. However, little is known about the effects of this type of education on the interpersonal skills of students taking part. This paper reports findings from a systematic review that formed part of a wider investigation into service user involvement in teaching interpersonal skills. The review aimed to locate and assess the quality of the published evidence relating to the effects of service user involvement on mental health students interpersonal skills and to synthesize results, using a definition of interpersonal skill that includes attitudes, empathy and skills as its key components. Results from this study indicate that the quality of evidence in this area is poor. However, sufficient synthesis of the evidence base was possible to allow conclusions and recommendations for both research and practice. Conclusions were that the involvement of service users in this area is both acceptable and valuable for students and had specific impacts on attitudes, empathy and skills. Some difficulties and reservations about the style of involvement are discussed. Recommendations for the conduct of future research are also made. © 2012 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Thermal conversion of electronic and electrical properties of AuCl3-doped single-walled carbon nanotubes.

PubMed

Yoon, Seon-Mi; Kim, Un Jeong; Benayad, Anass; Lee, Il Ha; Son, Hyungbin; Shin, Hyeon-Jin; Choi, Won Mook; Lee, Young Hee; Jin, Yong Wan; Lee, Eun-Hong; Lee, Sang Yoon; Choi, Jae-Young; Kim, Jong Min

2011-02-22

By using carbon-free inorganic atomic layer involving heat treatment from 150 to 300 °C, environmentally stable and permanent modulation of the electronic and electrical properties of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) from p-type to ambi-polar and possibly to n-type has been demonstrated. At low heat treatment temperature, a strong p-doping effect from Au(3+) ions to CNTs due to a large difference in reduction potential between them is dominant. However at higher temperature, the gold species are thermally reduced, and thermally induced CNT-Cl finally occurs by the decomposition reaction of AuCl(3). Thus, in the AuCl(3)-doped SWCNTs treated at higher temperature, the p-type doping effect is suppressed and an n-type property from CNT-Cl is thermally induced. Thermal conversion of the majority carrier type of AuCl(3)-doped SWNTs is systematically investigated by combining various optical and electrical tools.

A tetrapod-like repertoire of innate immune receptors and effectors for coelacanths

USGS Publications Warehouse

Boudinot, Pierre; Zou, Jun; Ota, Tatsuya; Buonocore, Francesco; Scapigliati, Giuseppe; Canapa, Adriana; Cannon, John; Litman, Gary; Hansen, John D.

2014-01-01

The recent availability of both robust transcriptome and genome resources for coelacanth (Latimeria chalumnae) has led to unique discoveries for coelacanth immunity such as the lack of IgM, a central component of adaptive immunity. This study was designed to more precisely address the origins and evolution of gene families involved in the initial recognition and response to microbial pathogens, which effect innate immunity. Several multigene families involved in innate immunity are addressed, including: Toll-like receptors (TLRs), retinoic acid inducible gene 1 (RIG1)-like receptors (RLRs), the nucleotide-binding domain and leucine-rich repeat containing proteins (NLRs), diverse immunoglobulin domain-containing proteins (DICP) and modular domain immune-type receptors (MDIRs). Our analyses also include the tripartite motif-containing proteins (TRIM), which are involved in pathogen recognition as well as the positive regulation of antiviral immunity. Finally, this study addressed some of the downstream effectors of the antimicrobial response including IL-1 family members, type I and II interferons (IFN) and IFN-stimulated effectors (ISGs). Collectively, the genes and gene families in coelacanth that effect innate immune functions share characteristics both in content, structure and arrangement with those found in tetrapods but not in teleosts. The findings support the sister group relationship of coelacanth fish with tetrapods.

Effects of greening and community reuse of vacant lots on crime

PubMed Central

Kondo, Michelle; Hohl, Bernadette; Han, SeungHoon; Branas, Charles

2016-01-01

The Youngstown Neighborhood Development Corporation initiated a ‘Lots of Green’ programme to reuse vacant land in 2010. We performed a difference-in-differences analysis of the effects of this programme on crime in and around newly treated lots, in comparison to crimes in and around randomly selected and matched, untreated vacant lot controls. The effects of two types of vacant lot treatments on crime were tested: a cleaning and greening ‘stabilisation’ treatment and a ‘community reuse’ treatment mostly involving community gardens. The combined effects of both types of vacant lot treatments were also tested. After adjustment for various sociodemographic factors, linear and Poisson regression models demonstrated statistically significant reductions in all crime classes for at least one lot treatment type. Regression models adjusted for spatial autocorrelation found the most consistent significant reductions in burglaries around stabilisation lots, and in assaults around community reuse lots. Spill-over crime reduction effects were found in contiguous areas around newly treated lots. Significant increases in motor vehicle thefts around both types of lots were also found after they had been greened. Community-initiated vacant lot greening may have a greater impact on reducing more serious, violent crimes. PMID:28529389

Maltreatment, Child Welfare, and Recidivism in a Sample of Deep-End Crossover Youth.

PubMed

Baglivio, Michael T; Wolff, Kevin T; Piquero, Alex R; Bilchik, Shay; Jackowski, Katherine; Greenwald, Mark A; Epps, Nathan

2016-04-01

Although research has oft-documented a maltreatment-delinquency link, the effect of involvement in-and timing of-child welfare system involvement on offending has received less attention. We examine whether the timing of child welfare involvement has differential effects on recidivism of deep-end juvenile offenders (youth who have been adjudicated delinquent by the court and placed in juvenile justice residential programs). The current study uses a large, diverse sample of 12,955 youth completing juvenile justice residential programs between 1 January 2010 and 30 June 2013 in Florida (13 % female, 55 % Black, 11 % Hispanic). Additionally, we explore the direct effects of childhood traumatic events on delinquency, as well as their indirect effects through child welfare involvement using structural equation modeling. The findings indicate that adverse childhood experiences fail to exert a direct effect on recidivism, but do exhibit a significant indirect effect on recidivism through child welfare involvement, which is itself associated with recidivism. This means that while having exposures to more types of childhood traumatic events does not, in and of itself, increase the likelihood of re-offending, effects of such experiences operate through child welfare placement. Differences in the effects of maltreatment timing and of adverse childhood experiences are observed across sex and race/ethnicity subgroups. Across all racial subgroups, exposures to adverse childhood experiences have a significant effect on the likelihood of child welfare placement, yet child welfare placement exerts a significant effect on recidivism for White and Hispanic youth, but not for Black youth. Only Hispanic female and White male youth with overlapping child welfare and juvenile justice cases (open cases in both systems at the same time during the study period) were more likely to recidivate than their delinquent-only counterpart youth. Crossover status (child welfare and juvenile justice involvement, whether prior or open cases) was essentially irrelevant with respect to the re-offending of Black youth completing juvenile justice residential programs. The findings indicate the effects of exposure to adverse childhood experiences, and child welfare system and juvenile justice system involvement on re-offending are not uniform across subgroups of youth but that earlier child welfare involvement is more detrimental than concurrent child welfare system involvement when it does matter.

Parental Involvement in Homework: Relations with Parent and Student Achievement-Related Motivational Beliefs and Achievement

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gonida, Eleftheria N.; Cortina, Kai S.

2014-01-01

Background: Parental involvement in homework is a home-based type of involvement in children's education. Research and theory suggest that it is beneficial for learning and achievement under certain conditions and for particular groups of individuals. Aims: The study examined whether different types of parents' involvement in homework…

Short- and Mid-Term Effects of Violent Victimization on Delinquency: A Multilevel Growth-Curve Modeling Approach.

PubMed

Kim, Young S; Lo, Celia C

2016-10-01

The present study investigates how adolescents' experiences of violent victimization exert short- and mid-term effects on their involvement in delinquency. The study compares and contrasts delinquency trajectories of youths whose experiences of violent victimization differ. A multilevel growth-curve modeling approach is applied to analyze data from five waves of the National Youth Survey. The results show that, although delinquency involvement increases as youths experience violent victimization, delinquency trajectories differ with the type of violent victimization, specifically, parental versus non-parental victimization. Violent victimization by parents produced a sharp initial decline in delinquency (short-term effect) followed by a rapid acceleration (mid-term effect). In turn, non-parental violence showed a stable trend over time. The findings have important implications for prevention and treatment services. © The Author(s) 2015.

[A consensual therapeutic recommendation for type 2 diabetes mellitus by the Slovak Diabetes Society (2018)].

PubMed

Martinka, Emil; Uličiansky, Vladimír; Mokáň, Marián; Tkáč, Ivan; Galajda, Peter; Dókušová, Silvia; Schroner, Zbynek

2018-01-01

Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a heterogeneous medical condition involving multiple pathophysiological mechanisms. Its successful treatment requires an individualized approach and frequently combined therapy with utilizing its effect on multiple levels. Current possibilities enable the employment of such procedures to an incomparably greater extent than before. The effects of different classes of oral antidiabetic drugs on the reduction of glycemia and HbA1c is mutually comparable. However differences are observed in the proportions of patients who met the required criteria, regarding the increase in weight, incidence of hypoglycemia as well as the effect on cardiovascular, renal or oncologic morbidity and mortality, and severity of specific adverse effects, potential risks and contraindications. The presented text provides the reader with the information about the Consensual therapeutic algorithm for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus in compliance with SPC, the ADA/EASD amended indicative limitations and recommendations, formulated by the Committee of the Slovak Diabetes Society.Key words: biguanides - gliflozins - gliptins - glitazones - GLP-1-receptor agonists - insulin - sulfonylurea.

Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in Niemann-Pick disease type B monitored by chitotriosidase activity.

PubMed

Quarello, Paola; Spada, Marco; Porta, Francesco; Vassallo, Elena; Timeus, Fabio; Fagioli, Franca

2018-02-01

Here, we report a patient with Niemann-Pick disease type B, with early severe onset of disease and pulmonary involvement, treated with hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) from a bone marrow matched unrelated donor. We confirm that HSCT is feasible and potentially beneficial for patients with severe phenotype. Noteworthy, we discussed the potential usefulness of the activity of peripheral chitotriosidase for the longitudinal evaluation of HSCT success and effectiveness. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Attention Guiding in Multimedia Learning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Jamet, Eric; Gavota, Monica; Quaireau, Christophe

2008-01-01

Comprehension of an illustrated document can involve complex visual scanning in order to locate the relevant information on the screen when this is evoked in spoken explanations. The present study examined the effects of two types of attention-guiding means (color change or step-by-step presentation of diagram elements synchronized with a spoken…

Toward a Science of Learning Games

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Howard-Jones, Paul; Demetriou, Skevi; Bogacz, Rafal; Yoo, Jee H.; Leonards, Ute

2011-01-01

Reinforcement learning involves a tight coupling of reward-associated behavior and a type of learning that is very different from that promoted by education. However, the emerging understanding of its underlying processes may help derive principles for effective learning games that have, until now, been elusive. This article first reviews findings…

An Accounting System for Solid Waste Management in Small Communities.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Zausner, Eric R.

This pamphlet provides a guide to the type and quantity of information to be collected for effective solid waste management in small communities. It is directed at municipal or private personnel involved in the operation and ownership of management facilities. Sample activity reports are included for reference. (CS)

Exercise Prescription.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ribisl, Paul M.

If exercise programs are to become effective in producing the desired results, then the correct exercise prescription must be applied. Four variables should be controlled in the prescription of exercise: (a) type of activity, (b) intensity, (c) duration, and (d) frequency. The long-term prescription of exercise involves the use of a (a) starter…

A Mixed-Methods, Multiprofessional Approach to Needs Assessment for Designing Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Moore, Heidi K.; McKeithen, Tom M.; Holthusen, Amy E.

2011-01-01

Like most hospital units, neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) are multidisciplinary and team-based. As a result, providing optimal nutritional care to premature infants involves using the knowledge and skills of several types of professionals. Using traditional needs assessment methodologies to effectively understand the educational needs…

Enhancing Preschoolers' Understanding of Ambiguity in Communication: A Training Study on Misunderstandings

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Carmiol, Ana M.; Vinden, Penelope G.

2013-01-01

Understanding knowledge acquisition involves a comprehension of the relationship between a person's access to relevant information and that person's subsequent knowledge. This report investigates how preschoolers improve in their ability to evaluate the effects of two distinct types of messages--ambiguous and informative--on a listener's…

Counseling Tips for Elementary School Principals.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kottler, Jeffrey A.; McEwan, Elaine K.

This book suggests that a crucial part of becoming an effective instructional leader is the development of positive relationships with students, staff, and parents. The principal's mission, need for counseling skills, and roles as facilitator and manager are discussed. Life inside the school involves being able to quickly assess many types of…

TSH/IGF-1 Receptor Cross-Talk Rapidly Activates Extracellular Signal-Regulated Kinases in Multiple Cell Types.

PubMed

Krieger, Christine C; Perry, Joseph D; Morgan, Sarah J; Kahaly, George J; Gershengorn, Marvin C

2017-10-01

We previously showed that thyrotropin (TSH)/insulinlike growth factor (IGF)-1 receptor cross-talk appears to be involved in Graves' orbitopathy (GO) pathogenesis and upregulation of thyroid-specific genes in human thyrocytes. In orbital fibroblasts from GO patients, coadministration of TSH and IGF-1 induces synergistic increases in hyaluronan secretion. In human thyrocytes, TSH plus IGF-1 synergistically increased expression of the sodium-iodide symporter that appeared to involve ERK1/2 activation. However, the details of ERK1/2 activation were not known, nor was whether ERK1/2 was involved in this synergism in other cell types. Using primary cultures of GO fibroblasts (GOFs) and human thyrocytes, as well as human embryonic kidney (HEK) 293 cells overexpressing TSH receptors (HEK-TSHRs), we show that simultaneous activation of TSHRs and IGF-1 receptors (IGF-1Rs) causes rapid, synergistic phosphorylation/activation of ERK1 and ERK2 in all three cell types. This effect is partially inhibited by pertussis toxin, an inhibitor of TSHR coupling to Gi/Go proteins. In support of a role for Gi/Go proteins in ERK1/2 phosphorylation, we found that knockdown of Gi(1-3) and Go in HEK-TSHRs inhibited ERK1/2 phosphorylation stimulated by TSH and TSH plus IGF-1. These data demonstrate that the synergistic effects of TSH plus IGF-1 occur early in the TSHR signaling cascade and further support the idea that TSHR/IGF-1R cross-talk is an important mechanism for regulation of human GOFs and thyrocytes.

Inhibitory effect of ginsenoside Rg1 on extracellular matrix production via extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase/activator protein 1 pathway in nasal polyp-derived fibroblasts.

PubMed

Cho, Jung-Sun; Moon, You-Mi; Um, Ji-Young; Moon, Jun-Hyeok; Park, Il-Ho; Lee, Heung-Man

2012-06-01

Nasal polyps are associated with chronic inflammation of the sinonasal mucosa and are involved in myofibroblast differentiation and extracellular matrix (ECM) accumulation. Ginsenoside Rg1, a compound derived from Panax ginseng, shows antifibrotic and anticancer effects. However, the molecular effects of Rg1 on myofibroblast differentiation and ECM production remain unknown. The aims of this study were to investigate the effect of Rg1 on transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1-induced myofibroblast differentiation and ECM production and to determine the molecular mechanism of Rg1 in nasal polyp-derived fibroblasts (NPDFs). NPDFs were isolated from nasal polyps of seven patients who had chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyp. NPDFs were exposed to TGF-β1 with or without Rg1. Expression levels of α-smooth muscle actin (SMA), fibronectin and collagen type Iα1 were determined by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, Western blot and immunofluorescent staining. TGF-β1 signaling molecules, including Smad2/3, extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase (ERK), c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and p38 were analyzed by Western blotting. Transcription factors involved with TGF-β1 signaling, nuclear factor (NF)-κB and activator protein 1 (AP-1) were also assessed by Western blot. The cytotoxic effect of Rg1 was measured by an established viability assay. The mRNA and protein expression levels of α-SMA, fibronectin and collagen type Iα1 were increased in TGF-β1-induced NPDFs. Rg1 inhibited these effects. The inhibitory molecular mechanism of Rg1 was involved in the ERK pathway. Rg1 inhibited the transcription factor activation of AP-1. Rg1 itself was not cytotoxic. The ginsenoside Rg1 has inhibitory effects on myofibroblast differentiation and ECM production. The inhibitory mechanism of Rg1 is involved with the ERK and AP-1 signaling pathways. Rg1 may be useful as an inhibitor of ECM deposition, and has potential to be used as a novel treatment option for nasal polyps.

Adeno-associated virus type 2 rep gene-mediated inhibition of basal gene expression of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 involves its negative regulatory functions.

PubMed Central

Oelze, I; Rittner, K; Sczakiel, G

1994-01-01

Adeno-associated virus type 2 (AAV-2), a human parvovirus which is apathogenic in adults, inhibits replication and gene expression of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) in human cells. The rep gene of AAV-2, which was shown earlier to be sufficient for this negative interference, also down-regulated the expression of heterologous sequences driven by the long terminal repeat (LTR) of HIV-1. This effect was observed in the absence of the HIV-1 transactivator Tat, i.e., at basal levels of LTR-driven transcription. In this work, we studied the involvement of functional subsequences of the HIV-1 LTR in rep-mediated inhibition in the absence of Tat. Mutated LTRs driving an indicator gene (cat) were cointroduced into human SW480 cells together with rep alone or with double-stranded DNA fragments or RNA containing sequences of the HIV-1 LTR. The results indicate that rep strongly enhances the function of negative regulatory elements of the LTR. In addition, the experiments revealed a transcribed sequence element located within the TAR-coding sequence termed AHHH (AAV-HIV homology element derived from HIV-1) which is involved in rep-mediated inhibition. The AHHH element is also involved in down-regulation of basal expression levels in the absence of rep, suggesting that AHHH also contributes to negative regulatory functions of the LTR of HIV-1. In contrast, positive regulatory elements of the HIV-1 LTR such as the NF kappa B and SP1 binding sites have no significant influence on the rep-mediated inhibition. Images PMID:8289357

Cultural Variability in Crew Discourse

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fischer, Ute

1999-01-01

Four studies were conducted to determine features of effective crew communication in response to errors during flight. Study One examined whether US captains and first officers use different communication strategies to correct errors and problems on the flight deck, and whether their communications are affected by the two situation variables, level of risk and degree of face-threat involved in challenging an error. Study Two was the cross-cultural extension of Study One and involved pilots from three European countries. Study Three compared communication strategies of female and male air carrier pilots who were matched in terms of years and type of aircraft experience. The final study assessed the effectiveness of the communication strategies observed in Study One.

Interventions aimed at reducing obesity in early childhood: a meta-analysis of programs that involve parents.

PubMed

Yavuz, H Melis; van Ijzendoorn, Marinus H; Mesman, Judi; van der Veek, Shelley

2015-06-01

Obesity is a growing problem even in very young childhood, resulting in high costs for individuals and society. As a response, numerous obesity prevention and intervention programs have been developed. Previous research has shown that early intervention programs are more effective when parents are involved, but the effectiveness of specific aspects of programs with parental involvement has not been investigated. This meta-analysis aims to investigate the features related to the effectiveness of different types of obesity intervention programs involving parents and targeting young children (0-6-year-olds). The Web of Science, PubMed, PsycInfo, CINAHL, and ERIC databases were searched for childhood obesity prevention and intervention programs involving parents. Data were analyzed using the Comprehensive Meta-analysis (CMA) software. Fifty studies with effect sizes measured at short-term follow-up (within 3 months from the end of the intervention) and 26 studies with effect sizes measured at long-term follow-up (all reported in a total of 49 publications) were identified. The combined effect size of interventions was small but significant at short-term follow-up (d = .08, p < .01). The results suggested the presence of a potential publication bias in studies providing results at long-term follow-up, with a nonsignificant adjusted effect size (d = .02), which indicated that obesity interventions were not effective at long-term follow-up. Multivariate meta-regression analyses showed that interventions were more effective when including either interactive sessions or educational materials as opposed to those including both interactive sessions and noninteractive educational materials. No other moderators regarding sample characteristics, study design, or methodological quality were significant. Interventions targeting young children that require parental involvement are effective at short-term follow-up, specifically when interventions include one mode of intervention rather than two. However, results were not retained in the long run. © 2014 Association for Child and Adolescent Mental Health.

Effect of Message Type on the Visual Attention of Adults With Traumatic Brain Injury.

PubMed

Thiessen, Amber; Brown, Jessica; Beukelman, David; Hux, Karen; Myers, Angela

2017-05-17

The purpose of this investigation was to measure the effect of message type (i.e., action, naming) on the visual attention patterns of individuals with and without traumatic brain injury (TBI) when viewing grids composed of 3 types of images (i.e., icons, decontextualized photographs, and contextualized photographs). Fourteen adults with TBI and 14 without TBI-assigned either to an action or naming message condition-viewed grids composed of 3 different image types. Participants' task was to select/sustain visual fixation on the image they felt best represented a stated message (i.e., action or naming). With final fixation location serving as a proxy for selection, participants in the naming message condition selected decontextualized photographs significantly more often than the other 2 image types. Participants in the action message condition selected contextualized photographs significantly more frequently than the other 2 image types. Minimal differences were noted between participant groups. This investigation provides preliminary evidence of the relationship between image and message type. Clinicians involved in the selection of images used for message representation should consider the message being represented when designing supports for people with TBI. Further research is necessary to fully understand the relationship between images and message type.

[Is it beneficial to involve family member? A literature review to psychosocial interventions in family-centered nursing].

PubMed

Mahrer-Imhof, Romy; Bruylands, Michelle

2014-10-01

Families influence the wellbeing of patients and are influenced by illness themselves. Involving caregivers in patient care was examined in multiple studies. The aim of this literature review was to investigate the different approaches to family-centered interventions (FI) and to evaluate the tested outcomes as well as the detected effect sizes. This search for a systematic literature review of randomized controlled trials and metaanalyses revealed three Meta Analyses with studies until 2007 and six randomized controlled studies from 2007 to 2012. FI showed small to middle positive effects on the outcomes depression, mental health, anxiety of patients and family members and on caregiver burden. A conclusive effect on physical health could not be shown. The results strongly depend on the enrolled patient population, the targeted participants of FI, as well as the focus, type and dose of FI. The studies showed vast differences in the length and type of intervention, the target population and the selection of outcomes. Comparing outcomes was difficult due to the use of different outcome measures. Further research with various populations, different FI intensity but with same, valid outcome measures is needed.

Familiarity effects in the construction of facial-composite images using modern software systems.

PubMed

Frowd, Charlie D; Skelton, Faye C; Butt, Neelam; Hassan, Amal; Fields, Stephen; Hancock, Peter J B

2011-12-01

We investigate the effect of target familiarity on the construction of facial composites, as used by law enforcement to locate criminal suspects. Two popular software construction methods were investigated. Participants were shown a target face that was either familiar or unfamiliar to them and constructed a composite of it from memory using a typical 'feature' system, involving selection of individual facial features, or one of the newer 'holistic' types, involving repeated selection and breeding from arrays of whole faces. This study found that composites constructed of a familiar face were named more successfully than composites of an unfamiliar face; also, naming of composites of internal and external features was equivalent for construction of unfamiliar targets, but internal features were better named than the external features for familiar targets. These findings applied to both systems, although benefit emerged for the holistic type due to more accurate construction of internal features and evidence for a whole-face advantage. STATEMENT OF RELEVANCE: This work is of relevance to practitioners who construct facial composites with witnesses to and victims of crime, as well as for software designers to help them improve the effectiveness of their composite systems.

A Systematic Study of Dysregulated MicroRNA in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus.

PubMed

He, Yuqing; Ding, Yuanlin; Liang, Biyu; Lin, Juanjuan; Kim, Taek-Kyun; Yu, Haibing; Hang, Hanwei; Wang, Kai

2017-02-28

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small noncoding RNAs that modulate the cellular transcriptome at the post-transcriptional level. miRNA plays important roles in different disease manifestation, including type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Many studies have characterized the changes of miRNAs in T2DM, a complex systematic disease; however, few studies have integrated these findings and explored the functional effects of the dysregulated miRNAs identified. To investigate the involvement of miRNAs in T2DM, we obtained and analyzed all relevant studies published prior to 18 October 2016 from various literature databases. From 59 independent studies that met the inclusion criteria, we identified 158 dysregulated miRNAs in seven different major sample types. To understand the functional impact of these deregulated miRNAs, we performed targets prediction and pathway enrichment analysis. Results from our analysis suggested that the altered miRNAs are involved in the core processes associated with T2DM, such as carbohydrate and lipid metabolisms, insulin signaling pathway and the adipocytokine signaling pathway. This systematic survey of dysregulated miRNAs provides molecular insights on the effect of deregulated miRNAs in different tissues during the development of diabetes. Some of these miRNAs and their mRNA targets may have diagnostic and/or therapeutic utilities in T2DM.

The effect of selected health education schemes on knowledge and attitude of the Kanuri towards certain parasitic diseases.

PubMed

Akogun, O B

1992-12-01

The effect of 3 types of intervention schemes on the scientific knowledge and attitude of Kanuri towards malaria, diarrhoea and dysentery and intestinal worms was assessed using the Likert scale response type statements. 1383 respondents in our identical Kanuri villages were used in the study. The effect of still pictures and card games (Goramari), drama songs, storytelling and discussions (Yerimari) and a combination of both (Shetimari) on knowledge and attitude was tested. Gotimari was used as the control. Quarterly assessment of changes in knowledge and attitude showed that Goramari was the least effective while Yerimari and Shetimari were the most effective. Women were more influenced than men by health education schemes which involve drama songs and stories while card games and still pictures had very little effect on them (women). The implication of these findings on disease management through health education is discussed.

Effect of Emotion and Type of Encoding on Memory for Actions: Verbal and Subject-Performed Tasks.

PubMed

Borg, Céline; Bouazza, Zineb; Godeau, Marielle; Getenet, Jean-Claude; Chainay, Hanna

2018-05-29

The present study examines whether the interaction between emotion and the enactment effect (body involvement) improves memory in people with Alzheimer disease (AD). Two experiments with drawings of actions were conducted, in which two types of encoding were used: motor and verbal. In experiment 1, with 13 AD patients and 13 older healthy adults, the encoding was incidental. In experiment 2, with 17 mild AD patients and 21 older healthy adults, it was intentional. In experiment 1, no effect of enactment or emotion was observed in the AD patients. In experiment 2, effects of enactment and emotion (better recall for negative actions) were observed in the AD patients. This pattern of results was also observed in the elderly control adults in both experiments. These results confirm effects observed in normal ageing and indicate a more subtle effect on AD. © 2018 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Multiple Behavior Descriptions Affect the Acquisitions of STI and STT.

PubMed

McCarthy, Randy J; Wells, Brett M; Skowronski, John J; Carlston, Donal E

2017-01-01

Four studies pursued the idea that spontaneous trait inferences (STIs) involve the formation of both inferential knowledge and associative knowledge while spontaneous trait transferences (STTs) involve only the formation of associative knowledge. These studies varied the type and amount of behavioral information from which perceivers could extract trait information. Experiments 1a and 1b used a modified savings-in-relearning paradigm and demonstrated that repeated presentations of an individual and a behavior description increased the strength of association between the target and implied trait, and this effect did not depend on whether the repeated presentations involved redundant information or new information. In comparison, Experiments 2a and 2b used a trait ratings dependent variable and demonstrated that the effects of repetition were stronger for STI, but not STT, when the added information differed from information that was previously encountered, but not when it was redundant with the previously encountered information.

Adult criminal involvement: A cross-sectional inquiry into correlates and mechanisms over the life course

PubMed Central

DePadilla, Lara; Perkins, Molly M.; Elifson, Kirk W.; Sterk, Claire E.

2013-01-01

In this paper, we examine the relative contribution of four domains of predictors that have been linked to adult criminal involvement: (1) socio-demographic characteristics, (2) family-of-origin factors, (3) proximal processes developed during adolescence, and (4) current lifestyle and situational factors. Cross-sectional data were collected through face-to-face interviews with 242 community-recruited adults. Data analysis involved negative binomial regression. Being male, family size, juvenile delinquency, aggression, living with someone involved in illegal activity and recent violent victimization were independently associated with non-violent criminal involvement. Aggression, association with deviant peers, and recent violent victimization were independently associated with violent criminal involvement. Juvenile delinquency and aggression mediated the affect of multiple family-of-origin characteristics on non-violent criminal involvement and aggression mediated the effect of childhood physical abuse on violent criminal involvement. The results emphasize the importance of investigating both antecedents and proximal risk factors predictive of different types of criminal involvement, which, in turn, will assist in developing risk-focused prevention and intervention programs. PMID:24307752

Urbanization effects on soil nitrogen transformations and microbial biomass in the subtropics

Treesearch

Heather A. Enloe; B. Graeme Lockaby; Wayne C. Zipperer; Greg L. Somers

2015-01-01

As urbanization can involve multiple alterations to the soil environment, it is uncertain how urbanization effects soil nitrogen cycling. We established 22–0.04 ha plots in six different land cover types—rural slash pine (Pinus elliottii) plantations (n=3), rural natural pine forests (n=3), rural natural oak forests (n=4), urban pine forests (n=3), urban oak forests (n...

Effects of emotional valence and three-dimensionality of visual stimuli on brain activation: an fMRI study.

PubMed

Dores, A R; Almeida, I; Barbosa, F; Castelo-Branco, M; Monteiro, L; Reis, M; de Sousa, L; Caldas, A Castro

2013-01-01

Examining changes in brain activation linked with emotion-inducing stimuli is essential to the study of emotions. Due to the ecological potential of techniques such as virtual reality (VR), inspection of whether brain activation in response to emotional stimuli can be modulated by the three-dimensional (3D) properties of the images is important. The current study sought to test whether the activation of brain areas involved in the emotional processing of scenarios of different valences can be modulated by 3D. Therefore, the focus was made on the interaction effect between emotion-inducing stimuli of different emotional valences (pleasant, unpleasant and neutral valences) and visualization types (2D, 3D). However, main effects were also analyzed. The effect of emotional valence and visualization types and their interaction were analyzed through a 3 × 2 repeated measures ANOVA. Post-hoc t-tests were performed under a ROI-analysis approach. The results show increased brain activation for the 3D affective-inducing stimuli in comparison with the same stimuli in 2D scenarios, mostly in cortical and subcortical regions that are related to emotional processing, in addition to visual processing regions. This study has the potential of clarify brain mechanisms involved in the processing of emotional stimuli (scenarios' valence) and their interaction with three-dimensionality.

Effects of gender and level of parental involvement among parents in drug treatment.

PubMed

Collins, Cyleste C; Grella, Christine E; Hser, Yih-Ing

2003-05-01

Most studies of parents in drug treatment have focused exclusively on mothers, and few studies have examined the effects of parents' level of involvement with their children on the parents' drug use and psychological functioning, either before or after treatment. This study examined mothers and fathers (n = 331) who were parents of children under the age of 18; participants were sampled from 19 drug treatment programs across four types of treatment modalities in Los Angeles County. A majority of each group (57% of 214 mothers and 51% of 117 fathers) were classified as being highly involved with their children. At the baseline assessment, higher parental involvement was related to lower levels of addiction severity, psychological severity, and symptoms of psychological distress, and to higher levels of self-esteem and perception of parenting skills. In general, fathers had higher levels of alcohol and drug-use severity than did mothers, but fathers who were more involved with their children showed lower levels of addiction severity than fathers who were less involved. Parental involvement at baseline was unrelated to drug use at the 12-month follow-up, although parents who were less involved with their children reported experiencing more stressors. Given the association of parental involvement with lower levels of addiction severity and psychological distress at baseline, treatment protocols should build upon the positive relationships of parents with their children, and seek to improve those of less-involved parents.

Poststroke delusions: What about the neuroanatomical and neurofunctional basis?

PubMed

Torrisi, Michele; De Luca, Rosaria; Pollicino, Patrizia; Leonardi, Simona; Marino, Silvia; Maresca, Giuseppa; Maggio, Maria Grazia; Piccolo, Adriana; Bramanti, Placido; Calabrò, Rocco Salvatore

2018-01-19

Delusion is a belief about yourself, people, or events that has no accordance with reality. Although it is known that stroke could cause various psychiatric and psychological effects, including depression, anxiety, and aggressiveness, psychotic symptoms, especially delusions, are rather uncommon. The most investigated poststroke delusions are paranoid type, nihilistic, and Fregoli syndrome. We will describe two patients showing delusion symptoms (Cotard-like and erotomanic ones) that occurred after a stroke involving the right temporal lobe, the basal ganglia and insular region, persisting for a long period after the stroke onset. We have, therefore, supposed that the simultaneous involvement of these brain areas could be involved in the neuroanatomical basis of delusions, as also demonstrated by the neurofunctional evaluation.

Calcium channel subtypes differ at two types of cholinergic synapse in lumbar sympathetic neurones of guinea-pigs.

PubMed

Ireland, D R; Davies, P J; McLachlan, E M

1999-01-01

1. The involvement of different presynaptic Ca2+ channels in transmission at 'weak' (subthreshold) and 'strong' (suprathreshold) synapses was investigated in guinea-pig paravertebral ganglia isolated in vitro. Selective Ca2+ channel antagonists were used to block excitatory synaptic currents evoked by stimulating single preganglionic axons. 2. The N-type Ca2+ channel blocker, omega-conotoxin GVIA (100 nM), reduced peak synaptic conductance by similar amounts at weak synapses (by 39 +/- 6 %) and strong synapses (34 +/- 6 %). 3. The P-type Ca2+ channel blocker, omega-agatoxin IVA (40 nM), significantly reduced transmitter release at weak synapses (by 42 +/- 6 %) but had only a small effect at strong synapses (reduced by 6 +/- 2 %). 4. Blockers of Q-, L- or T-type Ca2+ channels had no significant effects on peak synaptic conductance at either type of synapse. 5. We conclude that the two functionally distinct types of preganglionic terminal in sympathetic ganglia which synapse on the same neurone differ in their expression of particular types of voltage-dependent Ca2+ channels. Both types utilize N-type channels and channels resistant to blockade by specific antagonists, but Ca2+ entry through P-type channels makes a substantial contribution to acetylcholine release only at weak synapses.

Calcium channel subtypes differ at two types of cholinergic synapse in lumbar sympathetic neurones of guinea-pigs

PubMed Central

Ireland, David R; Davies, Philip J; McLachlan, Elspeth M

1999-01-01

The involvement of different presynaptic Ca2+ channels in transmission at ‘weak’ (subthreshold) and ‘strong’ (suprathreshold) synapses was investigated in guinea-pig paravertebral ganglia isolated in vitro. Selective Ca2+ channel antagonists were used to block excitatory synaptic currents evoked by stimulating single preganglionic axons.The N-type Ca2+ channel blocker, ω-conotoxin GVIA (100 nm), reduced peak synaptic conductance by similar amounts at weak synapses (by 39 ± 6%) and strong synapses (34 ± 6%).The P-type Ca2+ channel blocker, ω-agatoxin IVA (40 nm), significantly reduced transmitter release at weak synapses (by 42 ± 6%) but had only a small effect at strong synapses (reduced by 6 ± 2%).Blockers of Q-, L- or T-type Ca2+ channels had no significant effects on peak synaptic conductance at either type of synapse.We conclude that the two functionally distinct types of preganglionic terminal in sympathetic ganglia which synapse on the same neurone differ in their expression of particular types of voltage-dependent Ca2+ channels. Both types utilize N-type channels and channels resistant to blockade by specific antagonists, but Ca2+ entry through P-type channels makes a substantial contribution to acetylcholine release only at weak synapses. PMID:9831716

Parasitic helminths and their beneficial impact on type 1 and type 2 diabetes.

PubMed

Berbudi, Afiat; Ajendra, Jesuthas; Wardani, Ajeng P F; Hoerauf, Achim; Hübner, Marc P

2016-03-01

It is estimated that by the year 2035 almost 600 million people will suffer from diabetes. In the case of type 2 diabetes, the strongest increase of diabetes incidence occurs in developing and newly industrialized countries. This increase correlates not only with a progressing sedentary lifestyle and nutritional changes, but also environmental changes. Similarly, the increase of type 1 diabetes incidence in industrialized countries over the past decades cannot be explained by genetic factors alone, suggesting that environmental changes are also involved. One such environmental change is a reduced exposure to pathogens because of improved hygiene. Parasitic helminths modulate the immune system of their hosts and induce type 2 as well as regulatory immune responses. As pro-inflammatory immune responses are crucial for the onset of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes, helminth-induced immunomodulation may prevent diabetes onset and ameliorate insulin sensitivity. Several epidemiological studies in human and experimental animal models support such a protective effect of helminths for autoimmune diabetes. Recent studies further suggest that helminths may also provide such a beneficial effect for type 2 diabetes. In this review we summarize studies that investigated parasitic helminths and helminth-derived products and their impact on both type 1 and type 2 diabetes highlighting potential protective mechanisms. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

The effect of Center High Mounted Stop Lamp (CHMSL) on rear-end accidents in Israel.

PubMed

Bar-Gera, Hillel; Schechtman, Edna

2005-05-01

This paper examines the effect of the use of Center High Mounted Stop Lamp (CHMSL) on rear-end accidents, as reflected in Israeli police records from calendar years 1991-2002. The basic analysis, similar to that used in previous CHMSL studies, compares the involvement in accidents of passenger cars of model years 1994-1996 that are equipped with CHMSL with passenger cars of model years 1991-1993 that are not equipped with CHMSL. The number of involvements as the struck vehicle in a rear-end accident was used as the relevant measurement and the number of involvements as the striking vehicle in a rear-end accident was used as the reference measurement. The results yielded an odds ratio of 0.93. The explanation that the CHMSL is responsible for the 7% decrease is intuitively appealing and is consistent with previous findings. However, the strength of this evidence is marginal (p = 0.07). Additional analyses evaluated the model year effect in greater detail, in order to determine whether there exists a change point between 1993 and 1994 as would be expected from a CHMSL effect, or whether the effect is spurious. Detailed analyses were performed on the ratio of struck to striking involvements as well as the rates of involvement of both types. These analyses showed that (1) the chosen reference measurement is an appropriate one, but (2) the 0.93 odds ratio is quite possibly due to other reasons unrelated to the CHMSL, thus further limiting the confidence in CHMSL effectiveness.

Endocannabinoid mechanism in amphetamine-type stimulant use disorders: A short review.

PubMed

Su, Hang; Zhao, Min

2017-12-01

Recent evidence shows that the endocannabinoid system is involved in amphetamine-type stimulants (ATS) use disorders. To elucidate the role of the endocannabinoid system in ATS addiction, we reviewed results of studies using cannabinoid receptor agonists, antagonists as well as knockout model. The endocannabinoid system seems to play a role in reinstatement and relapse of ATS addiction and ATS-induced psychiatric symptoms. The molecular mechanisms of this system remains unclear, the association with dopamine system in nucleus accumbens is most likely involved. However, the function of the endocannabinoid system in anxiety and anti-anxiety effects induced by ATS is more complicated. These findings suggest that the endocannabinoid system may play an important role in the mechanism of ATS addiction and provide new idea for treating ATS addiction. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Subclassification and Clinical Management of Extraction Sockets with Labial Dentoalveolar Dehiscence Defects.

PubMed

Chu, Stephen J; Sarnachiaro, Guido O; Hochman, Mark N; Tarnow, Dennis P

2015-01-01

Immediate implant therapy involving implants placed into intact Type 1 extraction sockets has become a consistent clinical technique. The classification of Type 2 extraction sockets, where the mucosal tissues are present but there is a midfacial osseous dehiscence defect, has been described according to the extent of the buccal bone plate absence. The literature has offered different techniques in the treatment of Type 2 sockets; however, the extent of the defect has never been defined or delineated. In this article, the authors describe a subclassification of Type 2 sockets: Type 2A presents with a dehiscence defect roughly 5 mm to 6 mm from the free gingival margin (FGM) involving the coronal one-third of the labial bone plate; Type 2B presents with a dehiscence defect involving the middle one-third of the labial plate, approximately 7 mm to 9 mm from the FGM; and in Type 2C the dehiscence defect involves the apical one-third of the labial osseous plate roughly 10 mm or greater from the FGM. The authors also offer a protocol and technique employing immediate implant placement, guided bone regeneration, and bone graft containment with a custom two-piece healing abutment that can lead to consistent and satisfactory clinical outcomes in low-smile-line patients. The treatment protocol and sequence is outlined in a clinical case presentation involving a Type 2B socket.

Thyroid hormone accelerates the differentiation of adult hippocampal progenitors.

PubMed

Kapoor, R; Desouza, L A; Nanavaty, I N; Kernie, S G; Vaidya, V A

2012-09-01

Disrupted thyroid hormone function evokes severe physiological consequences in the immature brain. In adulthood, although clinical reports document an effect of thyroid hormone status on mood and cognition, the molecular and cellular changes underlying these behavioural effects are poorly understood. More recently, the subtle effects of thyroid hormone on structural plasticity in the mature brain, in particular on adult hippocampal neurogenesis, have come to be appreciated. However, the specific stages of adult hippocampal progenitor development that are sensitive to thyroid hormone are not defined. Using nestin-green fluorescent protein reporter mice, we demonstrate that thyroid hormone mediates its effects on hippocampal neurogenesis by influencing Type 2b and Type 3 progenitors, although it does not alter proliferation of either the Type 1 quiescent progenitor or the Type 2a amplifying neural progenitor. Thyroid hormone increases the number of doublecortin (DCX)-positive Type 3 progenitors, and accelerates neuronal differentiation into both DCX-positive immature neurones and neuronal nuclei-positive granule cell neurones. Furthermore, we show that this increase in neuronal differentiation is accompanied by a significant induction of specific transcription factors involved in hippocampal progenitor differentiation. In vitro studies using the neurosphere assay support a direct effect of thyroid hormone on progenitor development because neurospheres treated with thyroid hormone are shifted to a more differentiated state. Taken together, our results indicate that thyroid hormone mediates its neurogenic effects via targeting Type 2b and Type 3 hippocampal progenitors, and suggests a role for proneural transcription factors in contributing to the effects of thyroid hormone on neuronal differentiation of adult hippocampal progenitors. © 2012 The Authors. Journal of Neuroendocrinology © 2012 British Society for Neuroendocrinology.

Who wants to be involved in health care decisions? Comparing preferences for individual and collective involvement in England and Sweden.

PubMed

Fredriksson, Mio; Eriksson, Max; Tritter, Jonathan

2017-07-14

Patient and public involvement (PPI) is framed as positive for individuals, the health system, public health, as well as for communities and society as a whole. We investigated whether preferences for PPI differed between two countries with Beveridge type health systems-Sweden and England. We measured willingness to be involved in individual treatment decisions and in decisions about the organization and provision of local health and social care services. This was a comparative cross-sectional study of the general population's preferences. Together, the two samples included 3125 respondents; 1625 in England and 1500 in Sweden. Country differences were analysed in a multinomial regression model controlling for gender, age and educational attainment. Overall, 68% of respondents wanted a passive patient role and 44% wanted to be involved in local decisions about organization and provision of services. In comparison with in Sweden, they were in England less likely to want a health professional such as a GP or consultant to make decisions about their treatment and also more likely to want to make their own decisions. They were also less likely to want to be involved in local service development decisions. An increased likelihood of wanting to be involved in organizational decision-making was associated with individuals wanting to make their own treatment decisions. Women were less likely to want health professionals to make decisions and more likely to want to be involved in organizational decisions. An effective health system that ensures public health must integrate an effective approach to PPI both in individual treatment decisions and shaping local health and social care priorities. To be effective, involvement activities must take in to account the variation in the desire for involvement and the implications that this has for equity. More work is needed to understand the relationship between the desire to be involved and actually being involved, but both appear related to judgements of the impact of involvement on health care decisions.

Anti-allergic effects of Lycopus lucidus on mast cell-mediated allergy model

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

Shin, Tae-Yong; Kim, Sang-Hyun; Suk, Kyoungho

2005-12-15

The current study characterizes the mechanism by which the aqueous extract of Lycopus lucidus Turcz. (Labiatae) (LAE) decreases mast cell-mediated immediate-type allergic reaction. The immediate-type allergic reaction is involved in many allergic diseases such as asthma and allergic rhinitis. LAE has been used as a traditional medicine in Korea and is known to have an anti-inflammatory effect. However, its specific mechanism of action is still unknown. LAE was anally administered to mice for high and fast absorption. LAE inhibited compound 48/80-induced systemic reactions in mice. LAE decreased the local allergic reaction, passive cutaneous anaphylaxis, activated by anti-dinitrophenyl (DNP) IgE antibody.more » LAE dose-dependently reduced histamine release from rat peritoneal mast cells activated by compound 48/80 or anti-DNP IgE. Furthermore, LAE decreased the secretion of TNF-{alpha} and IL-6 in phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) plus calcium ionophore A23187-stimulated human mast cells. The inhibitory effect of LAE on the pro-inflammatory cytokine was p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and nuclear factor-{kappa}B (NF-{kappa}B) dependent. LAE attenuated PMA plus A23187-induced degradation of I{kappa}B{alpha} and nuclear translocation of NF-{kappa}B, and specifically blocked activation of p38 MAPK, but not that of c-jun N-terminal kinase and extracellular signal-regulated kinase. Our findings provide evidence that LAE inhibits mast cell-derived immediate-type allergic reactions and involvement of pro-inflammatory cytokines, p38 MAPK, and NF-{kappa}B in these effects.« less

Progress on Botulinum Toxin Type A-Induced Pain Relief in the Field of Plastics.

PubMed

Lu, Xiaona; Chen, Guocheng; Ren, Pengjie; Yang, Yan; Fan, Fei

2017-11-01

To retrospectively evaluate the effectiveness of Botulinum Toxin Type A (BTX-A) injections relieve pain in the field of plastic surgery and postoperative rehabilitation, and discuss the analgesic mechanism of BTX- A in plastics and related research progress. From appearance to September 1, 2016, PUBMED, EMBASE, and Web of Science were searched, using the key words related to "Botulinum Toxin Type A" and "Pain." Furtherly, nonplastic surgery-related literature was excluded by manual screening. Eleven literatures met the inclusion criteria, including 6 prospective controlled cohorts, 4 patient series, and 1 retrospective cohort. These studies involved Lower Limb, Breast, Hallux, Amputees, and Temporomandibular joint disk disfigurement and enrolled 402 patients. Among the patients, 360 received intraoperative BTX-A injection at the time of the main surgical procedure, 16 injected postoperatively and 26 did not undergo surgery. And 85.32% reported pain alleviation and 69.96% got favorable side effects and no one occurred major adverse effects. But 1.83% accepted injections more than once. Mechanism analysis explained these studies' results and demonstrated the analgesic effectiveness of BTX-A in plastics with nociceptive pain, inflammatory pain, and neuropathic pain. The results suggest that BTX-A may induce postoperative pain associated with plastic surgeries relief. But the available data of outcome assessment involved in this review are inconsistent and failed to meet methodological rigor. And pain alleviations are influenced by many factors. So further randomized controlled clinical trials with large sample sizes are needed to support this practice, determine standard usage methods, and establish corresponding specification systems.

Identification of growth stage molecular markers in Trichoderma sp. 'atroviride type B' and their potential application in monitoring fungal growth and development in soil.

PubMed

Mendoza-Mendoza, Artemio; Steyaert, Johanna; Nieto-Jacobo, Maria Fernanda; Holyoake, Andrew; Braithwaite, Mark; Stewart, Alison

2015-11-01

Several members of the genus Trichoderma are biocontrol agents of soil-borne fungal plant pathogens. The effectiveness of biocontrol agents depends heavily on how they perform in the complex field environment. Therefore, the ability to monitor and track Trichoderma within the environment is essential to understanding biocontrol efficacy. The objectives of this work were to: (a) identify key genes involved in Trichoderma sp. 'atroviride type B' morphogenesis; (b) develop a robust RNA isolation method from soil; and (c) develop molecular marker assays for characterizing morphogenesis whilst in the soil environment. Four cDNA libraries corresponding to conidia, germination, vegetative growth and conidiogenesis were created, and the genes identified by sequencing. Stage specificity of the different genes was confirmed by either Northern blot or quantitative reverse-transcriptase PCR (qRT-PCR) analysis using RNA from the four stages. con10, a conidial-specific gene, was observed in conidia, as well as one gene also involved in subsequent stages of germination (L-lactate/malate dehydrogenase encoding gene). The germination stage revealed high expression rates of genes involved in amino acid and protein biosynthesis, while in the vegetative-growth stage, genes involved in differentiation, including the mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase similar to Kpp7 from Ustilago maydis and the orthologue to stuA from Aspergillus nidulans, were preferentially expressed. Genes involved in cell-wall synthesis were expressed during conidiogenesis. We standardized total RNA isolation from Trichoderma sp. 'atroviride type B' growing in soil and then examined the expression profiles of selected genes using qRT-PCR. The results suggested that the relative expression patterns were cyclic and not accumulative.

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

Gardner, Carol R., E-mail: cgardner@pharmacy.rutgers.edu; Hankey, Pamela; Mishin, Vladimir

Stem cell-derived tyrosine kinase (STK) is a transmembrane receptor reported to play a role in macrophage switching from a classically activated/proinflammatory phenotype to an alternatively activated/wound repair phenotype. In the present studies, STK{sup −/−} mice were used to assess the role of STK in acetaminophen-induced hepatotoxicity as evidence suggests that the pathogenic process involves both of these macrophage subpopulations. In wild type mice, centrilobular hepatic necrosis and increases in serum transaminase levels were observed within 6 h of acetaminophen administration (300 mg/kg, i.p.). Loss of STK resulted in a significant increase in sensitivity of mice to the hepatotoxic effects ofmore » acetaminophen and increased mortality, effects independent of its metabolism. This was associated with reduced levels of hepatic glutathione, rapid upregulation of inducible nitric oxide synthase, and prolonged induction of heme oxygenase-1, suggesting excessive oxidative stress in STK{sup −/−} mice. F4/80, a marker of mature macrophages, was highly expressed on subpopulations of Kupffer cells in livers of wild type, but not STK{sup −/−} mice. Whereas F4/80{sup +} macrophages rapidly declined in the livers of wild type mice following acetaminophen intoxication, they increased in STK{sup −/−} mice. In wild type mice hepatic expression of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-1β, and IL-12, products of classically activated macrophages, increased after acetaminophen administration. Monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (MCP-1) and its receptor, CCR2, as well as IL-10, mediators involved in recruiting and activating anti-inflammatory/wound repair macrophages, also increased in wild type mice after acetaminophen. Loss of STK blunted the effects of acetaminophen on expression of TNFα, IL-1β, IL-12, MCP-1 and CCR2, while expression of IL-10 increased. Hepatic expression of CX3CL1, and its receptor, CX3CR1 also increased in STK{sup −/−} mice treated with acetaminophen. These data demonstrate that STK plays a role in regulating macrophage recruitment and activation in the liver following acetaminophen administration, and in hepatotoxicity. -- Highlights: ► STK regulates alternative macrophage activation after acetaminophen intoxication. ► Loss of STK results in increased sensitivity to acetaminophen. ► Increased toxicity involves oxidative stress and decreases in repair macrophages.« less

Photovoltaic devices having nanoparticle dipoles for enhanced performance and methods for making same

DOEpatents

Williams, George M [Portland, OR; Schut, David M [Philomath, OR; Stonas, Andreas [Albany, OR

2011-08-09

A photovoltaic device has nanoparticles sandwiched between a conductive substrate and a charge selective transport layer. Each of the nanoparticles has a ligand shell attached to the nanoparticle core. A first type of ligand is electron rich and attached to one hemisphere of the nanoparticle core, while a second type of ligand is electron poor and attached to an opposite hemisphere of the core. Consequently, the ligand shell induces an electric field within the nanoparticle, enhancing the photovoltaic effect. The arrangement of ligands types on different sides of the nanoparticle is obtained by a process involving ligand substitution after adhering the nanoparticles to the conductive substrate.

Domain-specific conflict adaptation without feature repetitions.

PubMed

Akçay, Çağlar; Hazeltine, Eliot

2011-06-01

An influential account of how cognitive control deals with conflicting sources of information holds that conflict is monitored by a module that automatically recruits attention to resolve the conflict. This leads to reduced effects of conflict on the subsequent trial, a phenomenon termed conflict adaptation. A prominent question is whether control processes are domain specific--that is, recruited only by the particular type of conflict they resolve. Previous studies that have examined this question used two-choice tasks in which feature repetition effects could be responsible for domain-specific adaptation effects. We report two experiments using four-choice (Experiment 1) and five-choice (Experiment 2) tasks that contain two types of irrelevant sources of potentially conflicting information: stimulus location (Simon conflict) and distractors (flanker conflict). In both experiments, we found within-type conflict adaptation for both types of conflict after eliminating trials on which stimulus features were repeated from one trial to the next. Across-type conflict adaptation, however, was not significant. Thus, conflict adaptation was due to domain-specific recruitment of cognitive control. Our results add converging evidence to the idea that multiple independent control processes are involved in reactive cognitive control, although whether control is always local remains to be determined.

Akt-mediated cardioprotective effects of aldosterone in type 2 diabetic mice.

PubMed

Fazal, Loubina; Azibani, Feriel; Bihry, Nicolas; Coutance, Guillaume; Polidano, Evelyne; Merval, Régine; Vodovar, Nicolas; Launay, Jean-Marie; Delcayre, Claude; Samuel, Jane-Lise

2014-06-01

Studies have shown that aldosterone would have angiogenic effects and therefore would be beneficial in the context of cardiovascular diseases. We thus investigated the potential involvement of aldosterone in triggering a cardiac angiogenic response in the context of type-2 diabetes and the molecular pathways involved. Male 3-wk-old aldosterone synthase (AS)-overexpressing mice and their control wild-type (WT) littermates were fed a standard or high-fat, high-sucrose (HFHS) diet. After 6 mo of diet treatment, mice were euthanized, and cardiac samples were assayed by RT-PCR, immunoblotting, and immunohistology. HFHS diet induced type-2 diabetes in WT (WT-D) and AS (AS-D) mice. VEGFa mRNAs decreased in WT-D (-43%, P<0.05 vs. WT) and increased in AS-D mice (+236%, P< 0.01 vs. WT-D). In WT-D mouse hearts, the proapoptotic p38MAPK was activated (P<0.05 vs. WT and AS-D), whereas Akt activity decreased (-64%, P<0.05 vs. WT). The AS mice, which exhibited a cardiac up-regulation of IGF1-R, showed an increase in Akt phosphorylation when diabetes was induced (P<0.05 vs. WT and AS-D). Contrary to WT-D mice, AS-D mouse hearts did not express inflammatory markers and exhibited a normal capillary density (P<0.05 vs. WT-D). To our knowledge, this is the first study providing new insights into the mechanisms whereby aldosterone prevents diabetes-induced cardiac disorders. © FASEB.

RR-MR transition of a Type V shock interaction in inviscid double-wedge flow with high-temperature gas effects

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xiong, W.; Li, J.; Zhu, Y.; Luo, X.

2018-07-01

The transition between regular reflection (RR) and Mach reflection (MR) of a Type V shock-shock interaction on a double-wedge geometry with non-equilibrium high-temperature gas effects is investigated theoretically and numerically. A modified shock polar method that involves thermochemical non-equilibrium processes is applied to calculate the theoretical critical angles of transition based on the detachment criterion and the von Neumann criterion. Two-dimensional inviscid numerical simulations are performed correspondingly to reveal the interactive wave patterns, the transition processes, and the critical transition angles. The theoretical and numerical results of the critical transition angles are compared, which shows evident disagreement, indicating that the transition mechanism between RR and MR of a Type V shock interaction is beyond the admissible scope of the classical theory. Numerical results show that the collisions of triple points of the Type V interaction cause the transition instead. Compared with the frozen counterpart, it is found that the high-temperature gas effects lead to a larger critical transition angle and a larger hysteresis interval.

The effects of metal ions on the DNA damage induced by hydrogen peroxide.

PubMed

Kobayashi, S; Ueda, K; Komano, T

1990-01-01

The effects of metal ions on DNA damage induced by hydrogen peroxide were investigated using two methods, agarose-gel electrophoretic analysis of supercoiled DNA and sequencing-gel analysis of single end-labeled DNA fragments of defined sequences. Hydrogen peroxide induced DNA damage when iron or copper ion was present. At least two classes of DNA damage were induced, one being direct DNA-strand cleavage, and the other being base modification labile to hot piperidine. The investigation of the damaged sites and the inhibitory effects of radical scavengers revealed that hydroxyl radical was the species which attacked DNA in the reaction of H2O2/Fe(II). On the other hand, two types of DNA damage were induced by H2O2/Cu(II). Type I damage was predominant and inhibited by potassium iodide, but type II was not. The sites of the base-modification induced by type I damage were similar to those by lipid peroxidation products and by ascorbate in the presence of Cu(II), suggesting the involvement of radical species other than free hydroxyl radical in the damaging reactions.

Extended application of WISH type S-form hip brace for patients with bilateral painful hip osteoarthritis: report of two cases.

PubMed

Sato, Takahisa; Yamaji, Takehiko; Inose, Hideyuki; Sato, Ena; Yoshikawa, Ayako; Usuda, Shigeru; Watanabe, Hideomi

2009-06-01

Dynamic lateral instability of the femoral head develops in patients with osteoarthritis (OA) of the hip. Recently we have developed a hip brace, called the WISH-type hip brace, and showed successful response of the patients quantitatively. However, a negligible effect was observed in patients with bilateral involvement. Here, we extended the application of the WISH-type hip brace for two patients with bilateral OA joints. The resultant WISH-type hip brace with two S-form portions for bilateral thighs provided good recovery in hip function. Interestingly Timed Up & Go (TUG) test performed for one patient revealed a positive effect of the brace on the functional mobility. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report elucidating the therapeutic effect of brace therapy with bilateral hip stabilization from hip functional and functional mobility points of view. Application of the present brace should be taken into account for patients with painful bilateral hip OA before easy application of invasive surgery such as total hip arthroplasty.

Organization and PprB-dependent control of the Pseudomonas aeruginosa tad Locus, involved in Flp pilus biology.

PubMed

Bernard, Christophe S; Bordi, Christophe; Termine, Elise; Filloux, Alain; de Bentzmann, Sophie

2009-03-01

Bacterial attachment to the substratum involves several cell surface organelles, including various types of pili. The Pseudomonas aeruginosa Tad machine assembles type IVb pili, which are required for adhesion to abiotic surfaces and to eukaryotic cells. Type IVb pili consist of a major subunit, the Flp pilin, processed by the FppA prepilin peptidase. In this study, we investigated the regulatory mechanism of the tad locus. We showed that the flp gene is expressed late in the stationary growth phase in aerobic conditions. We also showed that the tad locus was composed of five independent transcriptional units. We used transcriptional fusions to show that tad gene expression was positively controlled by the PprB response regulator. We subsequently showed that PprB bound to the promoter regions, directly controlling the expression of these genes. We then evaluated the contribution of two genes, tadF and rcpC, to type IVb pilus assembly. The deletion of these two genes had no effect on Flp production, pilus assembly, or Flp-mediated adhesion to abiotic surfaces in our conditions. However, our results suggest that the putative RcpC protein modifies the Flp pilin, thereby promoting Flp-dependent adhesion to eukaryotic cells.

The effect of an education programme (MEDIAS 2 ICT) involving intensive insulin treatment for people with type 2 diabetes.

PubMed

Hermanns, Norbert; Kulzer, Bernhard; Maier, Berthold; Mahr, Marina; Haak, Thomas

2012-02-01

In a randomized, multi-centre trial, the effect of an education programme (MEDIAS 2 ICT) involving intensive insulin treatment for people with type 2 diabetes was compared with an established education programme as an active comparator condition (ACC). We investigated whether MEDIAS 2 ICT was non-inferior to ACC in overall glycaemic control. Secondary outcomes were the diabetes-related distress, diabetes knowledge, quality of life, self-care behavior, lipids, blood pressure and weight. 186 subjects were randomized. After a six month follow-up the mean HbA1c decrease was 0.37% (from 8.2±1.1% to 7.8±1.5%) in the ACC and 0.63% (from 8.5±1.5% to 7.9±1.2%) in MEDIAS 2 ICT. The mean difference between both groups was -0.26% (95% CI -0.63 to -0.14) in favor of MEDIAS 2 ICT. This result was within the predefined limit for non-inferiority. Diabetes-related distress was significantly more reduced in MEDIAS 2 ICT (-3.4±7.1) than in ACC (0.4±9.0; p=0.31). MEDIAS 2 ICT is as effective in lowering HbA1c as previously established education programmes, but showed superiority in reducing diabetes-related distress. MEDIAS 2 ICT provides an alternative for education of people with type 2 diabetes treated by multiple injection therapy. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Cav1.2, but not Cav1.3, L-type calcium channel subtype mediates nicotine-induced conditioned place preference in miceo.

PubMed

Liu, Yudan; Harding, Meghan; Dore, Jules; Chen, Xihua

2017-04-03

Nicotine use is one of the most common forms of drug addiction. Although L-type calcium channels (LTCCs) are involved in nicotine addiction, the contribution of the two primary LTCC subtypes (Ca v 1.2 and 1.3) is unknown. This study aims to determine the contribution of these two LTCC subtypes to nicotine-induced conditioned place preference (CPP) responses by using transgenic mouse models that do not express Ca v 1.3 (Ca v 1.3 -/- ) or contain a mutation in the dihydropyridine (DHP) site of the Ca v 1.2 (Ca v 1.2DHP -/- ). We found a hyperbolic dose dependent nicotine (0.1-1mg/kg; 0.5mg/kg optimum) effect on place preference in wild type (WT) mice, that could be prevented by the DHP LTCC blocker nifedipine pretreatment. Similarly, Ca v 1.3 -/- mice showed nicotine-induced place preference which was antagonized by nifedipine. In contrast, nifedipine pretreatment of Ca v 1.2DHP -/- mice had no effect on nicotine-induced CPP responses, suggesting an involvement of Ca v 1.2 subtype in the nicotine-induced CPP response. Nifedipine alone failed to produce either conditioned place aversion or CPP in WT mice. These results collectively indicate Ca v 1.2, but not Ca v 1.3 LTCC subtype regulates, at least in part, the reinforcing effects of nicotine use. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The effects of ownership, staffing level and organisational justice on nurse commitment, involvement, and satisfaction: a questionnaire study.

PubMed

Heponiemi, Tarja; Elovainio, Marko; Kouvonen, Anne; Kuusio, Hannamaria; Noro, Anja; Finne-Soveri, Harriet; Sinervo, Timo

2011-12-01

Elderly care systems have undergone a lot of changes in many European countries, including Finland. Most notably, the number of private for-profit firms has increased. Previous studies suggest that employee well-being and the quality of care might differ according to the ownership type. The present study examined whether the ownership type and the staffing level were associated with organisational commitment, job involvement, and job satisfaction. In addition, we examined the potential moderating effect of organisational justice on these associations. Cross-sectional questionnaire study. 1047 Finnish female staff members aged 18-69 years working in sheltered housing or nursing homes (units n=179). The relationships were studied with analyses of covariance (ANCOVA), adjusting for the effects of age and case-mix. Organisational commitment and job satisfaction levels were low in for-profit sheltered homes when justice levels were low, but when justice levels were high, for-profit sheltered homes did not differ from other ownership types. Similarly, organisational justice acted as a buffer against low commitment resulting from low staffing levels. Staffing levels were lowest in public sheltered homes and highest in not-for-profit sheltered homes. The results show that organisational justice can act as a buffer against low organisational commitment that results from low staffing levels and working in for-profit sheltered homes. Increasing justice in regard to the management, outcomes, and procedures in the organisation would thus be important. 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

[Comparative analysis of metabotropic and ionotropic glutamate striatal receptors blockade influence on rats locomotor behaviour].

PubMed

Iakimovskiĭ, A F; Kerko, T V

2013-02-01

The influence of NMDA and metabotropic neostriatal glutamate receptors blockade to avoidance conditioning (in shuttle box) and free locomotor behavior (in open field) in chronic experiments in rats were investigated. The glutamate receptor antagonists were injected bilateral into striatum separately and with the GABA-A receptor antagonist picrotoxin (2 microg), that produced in rats the impairment of avoidance conditioning and choreo-myoklonic hyperkinesis. The most effective in preventing of negative picrotoxin influence on behavior was 5-type metabotropic glutamate receptors antagonist MTEP (3 microg). Separately injected MTEP did not influence on avoidance conditioning and free locomotor behavior. Unlike that, 1-type metabotropic glutamate receptors antagonist EMQMCM (3 microg) impaired normal locomotor behavior and did not prevent the picrotoxin effects. The NMDA glutamate receptors MK 801 (disocilpin--1 and 5 microg) impaired the picrotoxin-induced hyperkinesis, but did not to prevent the negative effects on avoidance conditioning; separately injected MK 801 reduced free locomotor activity. Based on location of investigated receptor types in neostriatal neurons membranes, we proposed that the most effective influence on 5-type metabotropic glutamate receptors is associated with their involvement in "indirect" efferent pathway, suffered in hyperkinetic extrapyramidal motor dysfunction--Huntington's chorea in human.

Transmitter release and presynaptic Ca2+ currents blocked by the spider toxin omega-Aga-IVA.

PubMed

Protti, D A; Uchitel, O D

1993-12-13

Mammalian neuromuscular transmission is resistant to L and N type calcium channel blockers but very sensitive to a low molecular weight funnel web spider venom toxin, FTX, which selectively blocks P type calcium channels. To further characterize the calcium channels involved in neuromuscular transmission we studied the effect of omega Agatoxin (omega-Aga-IVA) a polypeptide P type channel blocker from the same spider venom. We show that omega-Aga-IVA is a potent and irreversible inhibitor of the presynaptic Ca2+ currents and of acetylcholine release induced by electrical stimulation or by K+ depolarization. This provides further evidences that transmitter release at the mammalian neuromuscular junction is mediated by P type Ca2+ channels.

Design and feasibility study for a portable oil recovery turbopump

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1982-01-01

A portable oil recovery turbopump concept, using the Firefly module as primer mover, for the offloading of distressed tank vessels is examined. The demands to be met both in terms of the type of petroleum to be offloaded, as well as the operational requirements placed on the pump, are studied with respect to the capability of different pump configurations. Two configurations, one a centrifugal type and the other a screw type pump, are developed and evaluated. While the centrifugal configuration is found to be effective in a large proportion of tank vessel offloading situations, the screw type will be required where high viscosity cargoes are involved. The feasibility of the turbopump concept, with the Firefly module as prime mover, is established.

Customized Contract Training in Community Colleges: Who Really Benefits? Draft.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pincus, Fred L.

Customized Contract Training (CCT), which involves contracting to design short term, non-credit courses and workshops to meet the training needs of specific employers, is the new buzz-word at community colleges. Though many assume this type of school-business partnership benefits everyone, the potential negative effects on community colleges as…

An Empirical Analysis of Teacher Spillover Effects in Secondary School

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Koedel, Cory

2009-01-01

This paper examines whether educational production in secondary school involves joint production among teachers across subjects. In doing so, it also provides insights into the reliability of value-added modeling. Teacher value-added to reading test scores is estimated for four different teacher types: English, math, science and social-studies.…

Which Children Receive Grandparental Care and What Effect Does It Have?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fergusson, Emma; Maughan, Barbara; Golding, Jean

2008-01-01

Background: Grandparents are increasingly involved in the care of young children, but little is known about factors associated with this type of care, or its implications for children's behavioural development. Methods: We used information collected from 8752 families in the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC) on grandparent…

Cultivating Effective Corpus Use by Language Learners

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kennedy, Claire; Miceli, Tiziana

2017-01-01

While there is widespread agreement on the expected benefits of hands-on access to corpora for language learners, reports abound of the difficulties involved in realising those benefits in practice. A particular focus of discussion is the challenge of transferring the skills of the corpus linguist to learners, so that they can explore this type of…

Slovak High School Students' Attitudes toward Computers

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kubiatko, Milan; Halakova, Zuzana; Nagyova, Sona; Nagy, Tibor

2011-01-01

The pervasive involvement of information and communication technologies and computers in our daily lives influences changes of attitude toward computers. We focused on finding these ecological effects in the differences in computer attitudes as a function of gender and age. A questionnaire with 34 Likert-type items was used in our research. The…

Teachers and External Curriculum Consultants: Can They Function Effectively Together?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mahan, James; And Others

This paper reports on a 2-year field investigation of the frequency and content of interactions between curriculum consultants and elementary school teachers involved in implementing an inquiry-oriented curriculum. The report includes data generated by 45 consultants and 600 teachers in 53 diverse schools. The types of questions teachers ask…

Student and Teacher Perception of Disciplinary Practices: Types, Reasons, Consequences and Alternatives

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mumthas, N. S.; Munavvir, Jouhar; Abdul Gafoor, K.

2014-01-01

Inculcating self-discipline is important for systematic pursuit of learning, development of interest and potential in the child. Punishments involve employing a noxious or painful stimulus that generates a variety of problems and negative side effects to the child. Corporal punishments severely affect the human dignity of children. This study…

Syntactic Reconstruction and Reanalysis, Semantic Dead Ends, and Prefrontal Cortex

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Christensen, Ken Ramshoj

2010-01-01

The left inferior frontal gyrus (LIFG) is crucially has been found to be involved in syntactic processing of various kinds. This study investigates the cortical effects of two types of syntactic processes: (i) Reconstruction in ellipsis (recovery of left-out material given by context, "More people have been to Paris than" [...] "to…

Individualizing the Composition Class.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sieben, J. Kenneth

Students should be encouraged and taught how to write more effectively. This may be accomplished by involving them in two types of writing--the journal and the essay. The student is encouraged to record in his journal what he did and thought during the day, regardless of the trivialities. The journal is never evaluated by the instructor unless the…

The Effect of Contextual and Conceptual Rewording on Mathematical Problem-Solving Performance

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Haghverdi, Majid; Wiest, Lynda R.

2016-01-01

This study shows how separate and combined contextual and conceptual problem rewording can positively influence student performance in solving mathematical word problems. Participants included 80 seventh-grade Iranian students randomly assigned in groups of 20 to three experimental groups involving three types of rewording and a control group. All…

Dams and water developments

Treesearch

Robert H. Schueneman

1979-01-01

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is involved in the construction and regulation of many activities relating to water resource development. Such activities include dams and reservoirs, channelization and erosion control on rivers and tributaries, and coastal works. These activities can result in an array of visual effects depending on the specific activity type and...

THE BRIDGE PROJECT FOLLOWUP STUDY.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

GREENBERG, HAROLD; AND OTHERS

AN EXPERIMENT CONDUCTED AT THE JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL LEVEL IN NEW YORK CITY TO EVALUATE THE EFFECTIVENESS OF A NEW KIND OF LEARNING ENVIRONMENT ON THE EDUCATION OF DISADVANTAGED YOUTH WAS UNDERTAKEN AS A FOLLOWUP TO THE "BRIDGE" PROJECT. THE FUNDAMENTALS INVOLVED USING A NEW TYPE OF TEAM-TEACHING INSTRUCTION IN THE AREAS OF ENGLISH,…

Communication Processes in the Field Research Interview Setting: A Case Study.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mason, Susan A.

For those involved in research of any type, the gathering of complete, relevant, and untainted information is the ultimate goal. The collection of valuable information is particularly challenging in the social sciences, which often call for qualitative field research. The effective field research interviewer must not only be knowledgeable of the…

Impact of professional foresters on timber harvests on West Virginia nonindustrial private forests

Treesearch

Stuart A. Moss; Eric Heitzman

2013-01-01

Timber harvests conducted on 90 nonindustrial private forest properties in West Virginia were investigated to determine the effects that professional foresters have on harvest and residual stand attributes. Harvests were classified based on the type of forester involved: (1) consulting/state service foresters representing landowners, (2) industry foresters representing...

Questioning as a Teaching Tool. The Media Systems Series in Creative Teaching.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Thompson, Carolyn

This two-part learning module was designed to help instructors in making effective use of questioning techniques in promoting the classroom involvement of non-traditional students. Part I identifies the characteristics and uses of three different types of questions: (1) convergent, eliciting questions, which are designed to verify student…

Research Questions: Women and Mass Media.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Busby, Linda J.

Typically, research concerning media presentations of women has involved six types of analysis: (1) content analysis (what is said), (2) cultural and social analysis (why it is said), (3) control or gatekeeper analysis (by whom it is said), (4) audience analysis (to whom it is said), (5) media analysis (in which channel), and (6) effects analysis…

Space based lidar shot pattern targeting strategies for small targets such as streams

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Spiers, Gary D.

2001-01-01

An analysis of the effectiveness of four different types of lidar shot distribution is conducted to determine which is best for concentrating shots in a given location. A simple preemptive targeting strategy is found to work as adequately as a more involved dynamic strategy for most target sizes considered.

76 FR 52034 - Self-Regulatory Organizations; NYSE Arca, Inc.; Order Granting Approval of Proposed Rule Change...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-08-19

... a period of time greater than one day because mathematical compounding prevents the Funds from... not actively managed by traditional methods, which typically involve effecting changes in the... mathematical approach to determine the type, quantity, and mix of investment positions that it believes should...

Aspects of Television Content and Children's Social Behavior.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Collins, W. Andrew; And Others

Three studies examine the impact of different types of television content on the social behavior of children at various ages. The studies represent research into the interrelated problem of the processes involved in media effects and age-related differences. In the first study an action-adventure program, in which a character's reputation and…

Conditions in the Reader that Affect His Embodiment of the Text.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Myers, Jeanette S.

Three factors in the reader have a generalized effect on all perception, including reading: competence, purpose, and set. Competence involves applying past learning to new learning through transference, understanding the conventions of different types of texts, and transforming the text through the perceptual process into a new entity. Competent…

[Effect of high-intensity interval training on the reduction of glycosylated hemoglobin in type-2 diabetic adult patients].

PubMed

Aguilera Eguía, Raúl Alberto; Russell Guzmán, Javier Antonio; Soto Muñoz, Marcelo Enrique; Villegas González, Bastián Eduardo; Poblete Aro, Carlos Emilio; Ibacache Palma, Alejandro

2015-03-05

Type 2 diabetes mellitus is one of the major non-communicable chronic diseases in the world. Its prevalence in Chile is significant, and complications associated with this disease involve great costs, which is why prevention and treatment of this condition are essential. Physical exercise is an effective means for prevention and treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus. The emergence of new forms of physical training, such as "high intensity interval training", presents novel therapeutic alternatives for patients and health care professionals. To assess the validity and applicability of the results regarding the effectiveness of high intensity interval training in reducing glycosylated hemoglobin in adult patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and answer the following question: In subjects with type 2 diabetes, can the method of high intensity interval training compared to moderate intensity exercise decrease glycosylated hemoglobin? We performed a critical analysis of the article "Feasibility and preliminary effectiveness of high intensity interval training in type 2 diabetes". We found no significant differences in the amount of glycosylated hemoglobin between groups of high intensity interval training and moderate-intensity exercise upon completion of the study (p>0.05). In adult patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, high intensity interval training does not significantly improve glycosylated hemoglobin levels. Despite this, the high intensity interval training method shows as much improvement in body composition and physical condition as the moderate intensity exercise program.

Neurotensin type 1 receptor-mediated activation of krox24, c-fos and Elk-1: preventing effect of the neurotensin antagonists SR 48692 and SR 142948.

PubMed

Portier, M; Combes, T; Gully, D; Maffrand, J P; Casellas, P

1998-07-31

Stimulation of neurotensin (NT) type 1 receptors (NT1-R) in transfected CHO cells is followed by the activation of mitogen-activated protein kinases and the expression of the early response gene krox24. By making point mutations and internal deletions in the krox24 promoter, we show that proximal serum responsive elements (SRE) are involved in transcriptional activation by NT. In addition, we show that the related early response gene c-fos and the Ets protein Elk-1 are also induced by NT. The involvement of NT1-R in NT-mediated activation of krox24, c-fos and Elk-1 was demonstrated by the preventing effect of the specific antagonists SR 48692 and SR 142948. Finally, we show that the activation of krox24 and Elk-1 on the one hand, and that of c-fos on the other hand, result from independent transduction pathways since the former are pertussis toxin-sensitive whereas the latter is insensitive to pertussis toxin.

The dynamics and optimal control of spinning spacecraft with movable telescoping appendages. Part C: Effect of flexibility during boom deployment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bainum, P. M.; James, P. K.

1977-01-01

The dynamics of a spinning symmetrical spacecraft system during the deployment (or retraction) of flexible boom-type appendages were investigated. The effect of flexibility during boom deployment is treated by modelling the deployable members as compound spherical pendula of varying length (according to a control law). The orientation of the flexible booms with respect to the hub, is described by a sequence of two Euler angles. The boom members contain a flexural stiffness which can be related to an assumed effective restoring linear spring constant, and structural damping which effects the entire system. Linearized equations of motion for this system, when the boom length is constant, involve periodic coefficients with the frequency of the hub spin. A bounded transformation is found which converts this system into a kinematically equivalent one involving only constant coefficients.

Food environments and dietary intakes among adults: does the type of spatial exposure measurement matter? A systematic review.

PubMed

Bivoltsis, Alexia; Cervigni, Eleanor; Trapp, Gina; Knuiman, Matthew; Hooper, Paula; Ambrosini, Gina Leslie

2018-06-09

The relationships between food environments and dietary intake have been assessed via a range of methodologically diverse measures of spatial exposure to food outlets, resulting in a largely inconclusive body of evidence, limiting informed policy intervention. This systematic review aims to evaluate the influence of methodological choice on study outcomes by examining the within-study effect of availability (e.g., counts) versus accessibility (e.g., proximity) spatial exposure measures on associations with diet. (PROSPERO registration: CRD42018085250). PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus and ScienceDirect databases were searched for empirical studies from 1980 to 2017, in the English language, involving adults and reporting on the statistical association between a dietary outcome and spatial exposure measures of both availability and accessibility. Studies were appraised using an eight-point quality criteria with a narrative synthesis of results. A total of 205 associations and 44 relationships (i.e., multiple measures of spatial exposure relating to a particular food outlet type and dietary outcome) were extracted from 14 eligible articles. Comparative measures were dominated by counts (availability) and proximity (accessibility). Few studies compared more complex measures and all counts were derived from place-based measures of exposure. Sixteen of the 44 relationships had a significant effect involving an availability measure whilst only 8 had a significant effect from an accessibility measure. The largest effect sizes in relationships were mostly for availability measures. After stratification by scale, availability measure had the greatest effect size in 139 of the 176 pairwise comparisons. Of the 33% (68/205) of associations that reached significance, 53/68 (78%) were from availability measures. There was no relationship between study quality and reported study outcomes. The limited evidence suggests that availability measures may produce significant and greater effect sizes than accessibility measures. However, both availability and accessibility measures may be important concepts of spatial exposure depending on the food outlet type and dietary outcome examined. More studies reporting on multi-method effects are required to differentiate findings by the type of spatial exposure assessment and build an evidence base regarding the appropriateness and robustness of measures under different circumstances.

Effectiveness of interventions to prevent falls in people with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias.

PubMed

Jensen, Lou E; Padilla, René

2011-01-01

A systematic review was conducted to determine the effectiveness of interventions to prevent falls in people with Alzheimer's disease (AD) and related dementias. Twelve research reports met inclusion criteria. Studies reported on three types of intervention: (1) exercise- and motor-based interventions, (2) nursing staff-directed interventions, and (3) multidisciplinary interventions. Strategies were offered as single or multifaceted intervention programs. All types of intervention resulted in benefit, although the evidence for effectiveness is tentative because of the studies' limitations. More research is needed to better understand appropriate dosages of intervention. No evidence was found for the effectiveness of prevention programs accessed as part of occasional respite care. Occupational therapy was seldom involved in the interventions researched. Because effective fall prevention programs are embedded in people's daily routines and encouraged participation in occupation, the contribution occupational therapy practitioners can make to the care of people with AD has yet to be fully realized.

Evaluation of scopadulciol-related molecules for their stimulatory effect on the cytotoxicity of acyclovir and ganciclovir against Herpes simplex virus type 1 thymidine kinase gene-transfected HeLa cells.

PubMed

Hayashi, Kyoko; Rahman, S M Abdur; Ohno, Hiroaki; Tanaka, Tetsuaki; Toyooka, Naoki; Nemoto, Hideo; Hayashi, Toshimitsu

2004-08-01

Herpes simplex virus type 1 thymidine kinase (HSV TK) is involved in both antiherpetic therapy and cancer gene therapy with acyclovir (ACV) and ganciclovir (GCV). Enhanced sensitivity to these drugs is advantageous in their clinical use. In the present study, scopadulciol (SDC) and its related compounds were evaluated for their stimulatory effect on the cytotoxicity of ACV and GCV by determination of selective toxicities against HSV TK-expressing HeLa cells. Although SDC remarkably potenciated the cytotoxicity of ACV and GCV, the other tested compounds showed only weak selectivity, except for compound 34.

Effects of selective type I and II adrenal steroid agonists on immune cell distribution.

PubMed

Miller, A H; Spencer, R L; hassett, J; Kim, C; Rhee, R; Ciurea, D; Dhabhar, F; McEwen, B; Stein, M

1994-11-01

Adrenal steroids exert their effects through two distinct adrenal steroid receptor subtypes; the high affinity type I, or mineralocorticoid, receptor and the lower affinity type II, or glucocorticoid, receptor. Adrenal steroids have well known effects on immune cell distribution, and although both type I and II receptors are expressed in immune cells and tissues, few data exist on the relative effects mediated through these two receptor subtypes. Accordingly, we administered selective type I and II adrenal steroid receptor agonists to young adult male Sprague-Dawley rats for 7 days and then measured immune cell distribution in the peripheral blood and spleen. Results were compared with those of similar studies using the naturally occurring glucocorticoid of the rat, corticosterone, which binds both type I and II receptors. The majority of the well characterized effects of adrenal steroids on peripheral blood immune cells (increased neutrophils and decreased lymphocytes and monocytes) were reproduced by the type II receptor agonist, RU28362. RU28362 decreased the numbers of all lymphocyte subsets [T-cells, B-cells, and natural killer (NK) cells] to very low absolute levels. The largest relative decrease (i.e. in percentage) was seen in B-cells, whereas NK cells exhibited the least relative decrease and actually showed a 2-fold increase in relative percentage during RU28362 treatment. Similar to RU28362, the type I receptor agonist, aldosterone, significantly reduced the number of lymphocytes and monocytes. In contrast to RU28362, however, aldosterone significantly decreased the number of neutrophils. Moreover, aldosterone decreased the number of T-helper cells and NK cells, while having no effect on the number of B-cells or T-suppressor/cytotoxic cells. Corticosterone at physiologically relevant concentrations had potent effects on immune cell distribution, which were indistinguishable from those of the type II receptor agonist, RU28362. Taken together, these results indicate that effects of adrenal steroids on immune cell distribution are dependent on the receptor subtype involved as well as the specific cell type targeted. These factors allow for varied and complex effects of adrenal steroids on the immune system under physiological conditions.

The effects of outcome and process feedback

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Johnson, Debra Steele

1990-01-01

A study was conducted to examine the effects of process and outcome feedback on performance during a skill acquisition phase and a transfer test phase. The research also examined the role of two moderators: self-efficacy and intrinsic motivation. Subjects were college students participating for course credit. The task involved using a computerized simulation of the Space Shuttle's Remote Manipulation System (RMS). Results provided evidence of the beneficial effects of process feedback during skill acquisition. Results also provided evidence that self-efficacy and intrinsic motivation moderate the effects of feedback type on performance.

Brief mindfulness-based therapy for chronic tension-type headache: a randomized controlled pilot study.

PubMed

Cathcart, Stuart; Galatis, Nicola; Immink, Maarten; Proeve, Michael; Petkov, John

2014-01-01

Mindfulness-based therapy (MBT) has been demonstrated to be effective for reducing chronic pain symptoms; however, the use of MBT for Chronic Tension-Type Headache (CTH) exclusively has to date not been examined. Typically, MBT for chronic pain has involved an 8-week program based on Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction. Recent research suggests briefer mindfulness-based treatments may be effective for chronic pain. To conduct a pilot study into the efficacy of brief MBT for CTH. We conducted a randomized controlled trial of a brief (6-session, 3-week) MBT for CTH. Results indicated a significant decrease in headache frequency and an increase in the mindfulness facet of Observe in the treatment but not wait-list control group. Brief MBT may be an effective intervention for CTH.

Multiple Neuropeptide-Coding Genes Involved in Planarian Pharynx Extension.

PubMed

Shimoyama, Seira; Inoue, Takeshi; Kashima, Makoto; Agata, Kiyokazu

2016-06-01

Planarian feeding behavior involves three steps: moving toward food, extending the pharynx from their planarian's ventral side after arriving at the food, and ingesting the food through the pharynx. Although pharynx extension is a remarkable behavior, it remains unknown what neuronal cell types are involved in its regulation. To identify neurons involved in regulating pharynx extension, we quantitatively analyzed pharynx extension and sought to identify these neurons by RNA interference (RNAi) and in situ hybridization. This assay, when performed using planarians with amputation of various body parts, clearly showed that the head portion is indispensable for inducing pharynx extension. We thus tested the effects of knockdown of brain neurons such as serotonergic, GABAergic, and dopaminergic neurons by RNAi, but did not observe any effects on pharynx extension behavior. However, animals with RNAi of the Prohormone Convertase 2 (PC2, a neuropeptide processing enzyme) gene did not perform the pharynx extension behavior, suggesting the possible involvement of neuropeptide(s in the regulation of pharynx extension. We screened 24 neuropeptide-coding genes, analyzed their functions by RNAi using the pharynx extension assay system, and identified at least five neuropeptide genes involved in pharynx extension. These was expressed in different cells or neurons, and some of them were expressed in the brain, suggesting complex regulation of planarian feeding behavior by the nervous system.

Signaling pathways involved in human sperm hyperactivated motility stimulated by Zn2.

PubMed

Allouche-Fitoussi, Deborah; Bakhshi, Danit; Breitbart, Haim

2018-05-11

To fertilize the egg, sperm cells must reside in the female reproductive tract for several hours during which they undergo chemical and motility changes collectively called capacitation. During capacitation, the sperm develop a unique type of motility known as hyper-activated motility (HAM). The semen contains Zn 2+ in millimolar concentrations, whereas in the female reproductive tract the concentration is around 1 µM. In this study, we characterize the role of Zn 2+ in human sperm capacitation focusing on its effect on HAM. Western blot analysis revealed the presence of GPR39 type Zn-receptor localized mainly in the sperm tail. Zn 2+ at micromolar concentration stimulates HAM which is mediated by a cascade involving GPR39-Adenylyl Cyclase (AC)-cAMP-PKA-Src-EGFR and phospholipase C (PLC). Both the trans-membrane AC and the soluble-AC are involved in the stimulation of HAM by Zn 2+ . The development of HAM is precisely regulated by cAMP, in which relatively low concentration (5-10 µM) stimulated HAM, whereas at 30 µM no stimulation occurred. A similar response was seen when different concentrations of Zn 2+ were added to the cells; low Zn 2+ stimulated HAM, whereas at relatively high Zn 2+ , no effect was seen. We further demonstrate that the Ca 2+ -channel CatSper involved in Zn 2+ - stimulated HAM. These data support a role for extracellular Zn 2+ acting via GPR39 to regulate signaling pathways in sperm capacitation, leading to HAM induction. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Pioglitazone, a PPARγ Agonist, Upregulates the Expression of Caveolin-1 and Catalase, Essential for Thyroid Cell Homeostasis: A Clue to the Pathogenesis of Hashimoto's Thyroiditis.

PubMed

Werion, Alexis; Joris, Virginie; Hepp, Michael; Papasokrati, Lida; Marique, Lancelot; de Ville de Goyet, Christine; Van Regemorter, Victoria; Mourad, Michel; Lengelé, Benoit; Daumerie, Chantal; Marbaix, Etienne; Brichard, Sonia; Many, Marie-Christine; Craps, Julie

2016-09-01

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) is a transcription factor that regulates the expression of multiple target genes involved in several metabolic pathways as well as in inflammation. The expression and cell localization of caveolin-1 (Cav-1), thyroperoxidase (TPO), and dual oxidase (DUOX), involved in extracellular iodination, is modulated by Th1 cytokines in human normal thyroid cells and in Hashimoto's thyroiditis (HT). The objectives of this study were (i) to analyze the PPARγ protein and mRNA expression at the follicular level in HT versus controls in correlation with the one of Cav-1; (ii) to study the effects of Th1 cytokines on PPARγ and catalase expression in human thyrocyte primary cultures; and (iii) to study the effects of pioglitazone, a PPARγ agonist, on thyroxisome components (Cav-1, TPO, DUOX) and on catalase, involved in antioxidant defense. Although the global expression of PPARγ in the whole gland of patients with HT was not modified compared with controls, there was great heterogeneity among glands and among follicles within the same thyroid. Besides normal (type 1) follicles, there were around inflammatory zones, hyperactive (type 2) follicles with high PPARγ and Cav-1 expression, and inactive (type 3) follicles which were unable to form thyroxine and did not express PPARγ or Cav-1. In human thyrocytes in primary culture, Th1 cytokines decreased PPARγ and catalase expression; pioglitazone increased Cav-1, TPO, and catalase expression. PPARγ may play a central role in normal thyroid physiology by upregulating Cav-1, essential for the organization of the thyroxisome and extracellular iodination. By upregulating catalase, PPARγ may also contribute to cell homeostasis. The inhibitory effect of Th1 cytokines on PPARγ expression may be considered as a new pathogenetic mechanism for HT, and the use of PPARγ agonists could open a new therapeutic approach.

Head-on crashes on two-way interurban roads: a public health concern in road safety.

PubMed

Olabarria, Marta; Santamariña-Rubio, Elena; Marí-Dell'Olmo, Marc; Gotsens, Mercè; Novoa, Ana M; Borrell, Carme; Pérez, Katherine

2015-09-01

To describe the magnitude and characteristics of crashes and drivers involved in head-on crashes on two-way interurban roads in Spain between 2007 and 2012, and to identify the factors associated with the likelihood of head-on crashes on these roads compared with other types of crash. A cross-sectional study was conducted using the National Crash Register. The dependent variables were head-on crashes with injury (yes/no) and drivers involved in head-on crashes (yes/no). Factors associated with head-on crashes and with being a driver involved in a head-on crash versus other types of crash were studied using a multivariate robust Poisson regression model to estimate proportion ratios (PR) and confidence intervals (95% CI). There were 9,192 head-on crashes on two-way Spanish interurban roads. A total of 15,412 men and 3,862 women drivers were involved. Compared with other types of crash, head-on collisions were more likely on roads 7 m or more wide, on road sections with curves, narrowings or drop changes, on wet or snowy surfaces, and in twilight conditions. Transgressions committed by drivers involved in head-on crashes were driving in the opposite direction and incorrectly overtaking another vehicle. Factors associated with a lower probability of head-on crashes were the existence of medians (PR=0.57; 95%CI: 0.48-0.68) and a paved shoulder of less than 1.5 meters (PR=0.81; 95%CI: 0.77-0.86) or from 1.5 to 2.45 meters (PR=0.90; 95%CI: 0.84-0.96). This study allowed the characterization of crashes and drivers involved in head-on crashes on two-way interurban roads. The lower probability observed on roads with median strips point to these measures as an effective way to reduce these collisions. Copyright © 2014 SESPAS. Published by Elsevier Espana. All rights reserved.

What Type of Communication during Conflict is Beneficial for Intimate Relationships?

PubMed Central

Overall, Nickola C.; McNulty, James K.

2016-01-01

What constitutes effective communication during conflict? Answering this question requires (a) clarifying whether communication expresses opposition versus cooperation and is direct versus indirect, (b) assessing the mechanisms through which communication effects relationships, and (c) identifying the contextual factors that determine the impact of communication. Recent research incorporating these components illustrates that direct opposition is beneficial when serious problems need to be addressed and partners are able to change, but can be harmful when partners are not confident or secure enough to be responsive. In contrast, cooperative communication involving affection and validation can be harmful when serious problems need to changed, but may be beneficial when problems are minor, cannot be changed, or involve partners whose defensiveness curtails problem solving. PMID:28025652

Shared Genetic Factors Involved in Celiac Disease, Type 2 Diabetes and Anorexia Nervosa Suggest Common Molecular Pathways for Chronic Diseases.

PubMed

Mostowy, Joanna; Montén, Caroline; Gudjonsdottir, Audur H; Arnell, Henrik; Browaldh, Lars; Nilsson, Staffan; Agardh, Daniel; Torinsson Naluai, Åsa

2016-01-01

Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified several genetic regions involved in immune-regulatory mechanisms to be associated with celiac disease. Previous GWAS also revealed an over-representation of genes involved in type 2 diabetes and anorexia nervosa associated with celiac disease, suggesting involvement of common metabolic pathways for development of these chronic diseases. The aim of this study was to extend these previous analyses to study the gene expression in the gut from children with active celiac disease. Thirty six target genes involved in type 2 diabetes and four genes associated with anorexia nervosa were investigated for gene expression in small intestinal biopsies from 144 children with celiac disease at median (range) age of 7.4 years (1.6-17.8) and from 154 disease controls at a median (range) age 11.4.years (1.4-18.3). A total of eleven of genes were differently expressed in celiac patients compared with disease controls of which CD36, CD38, FOXP1, SELL, PPARA, PPARG, AGT previously associated with type 2 diabetes and AKAP6, NTNG1 with anorexia nervosa remained significant after correction for multiple testing. Shared genetic factors involved in celiac disease, type 2 diabetes and anorexia nervosa suggest common underlying molecular pathways for these diseases.

Retrospective Analysis of Opioid Medication Incidents Requiring Administration of Naloxone

PubMed Central

Neil, Katherine; Marcil, Allison; Kosar, Lynette; Dumont, Zack; Ruda, Lisa; McMillan, Kaitlyn

2013-01-01

Background: Opioid analgesics are high-alert medications known to cause adverse drug events. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to determine the cause of opioid incidents requiring administration of naloxone, an opioid reversal agent. The specific objectives were to determine the number of opioid incidents and the proportion of incidents documented through occurrence reporting and to characterize the incidents by phase in the medication-use process, by type of incident, and by drug responsible for toxic effects. Methods: A retrospective chart analysis was conducted using records from 2 acute care centres in the Regina Qu’Appelle Health Region. The study included inpatients who received naloxone for reversal of opioid toxicity resulting from licit, in-hospital opioid use. Cases were classified as preventable or nonpreventable. Preventable cases were analyzed to determine the phase of the medication-use process during which the incident occurred. These cases were also grouped thematically by the type of incident. The drug most likely responsible for opioid toxicity was determined for each case. The proportion of cases documented by occurrence reporting was also noted. Results: Thirty-six cases involving administration of naloxone were identified, of which 29 (81%) were deemed preventable. Of these 29 preventable cases, the primary medication incident occurred most frequently in the prescribing phase (23 [79%]), but multiple phases were often involved. The cases were grouped into 6 themes according to the type of incident. Morphine was the drug that most frequently resulted in toxic effects (18 cases [50%]). Only two of the cases (5.6%) were documented by occurrence reports. Conclusion: Preventable opioid incidents occurred in the acute care centres under study. A combination of medication safety initiatives involving multiple disciplines may be required to decrease the incidence of these events and to better document their occurrence. PMID:24159230

Defendant mental illness and juror decision-making: A comparison of sample types.

PubMed

Mossière, Annik; Maeder, Evelyn M

2015-01-01

Two studies were conducted with separate student and community samples to explore the effect of sample types and the influence of defendant mental illness on juror decision-making. Following the completion of a pre-trial questionnaire in which jurors' attitudes towards mental illness were assessed, participants were provided with a robbery trial transcript, wherein the mental illness of the defendant was manipulated. Participants then answered a questionnaire to assess their knowledge of the scenario, their verdict, verdict confidence, and sentencing decision. Limited relationships were found between the variables in both Study 1 and Study 2. Neither attitude ratings nor mental illness type had a significant effect on juror decisions. Samples differed in terms of the paths through which juror decisions were achieved. Findings suggest that sample type may be particularly relevant for this topic of study, and that future research is required on legal proceedings for cases involving a defendant with a mental illness. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Involvement of ERK in NMDA receptor-independent cortical neurotoxicity of hydrogen sulfide

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

Kurokawa, Yuko; Sekiguchi, Fumiko; Kubo, Satoko

2011-11-04

Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Hydrogen sulfide causes NMDA receptor-independent neurotoxicity in mouse fetal cortical neurons. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Activation of ERK mediates the toxicity of hydrogen sulfide. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Apoptotic mechanisms are involved in the hydrogen-induced cell death. -- Abstract: Hydrogen sulfide (H{sub 2}S), a gasotransmitter, exerts both neurotoxicity and neuroprotection, and targets multiple molecules including NMDA receptors, T-type calcium channels and NO synthase (NOS) that might affect neuronal viability. Here, we determined and characterized effects of NaHS, an H{sub 2}S donor, on cell viability in the primary cultures of mouse fetal cortical neurons. NaHS caused neuronal death, as assessed by LDH release and trypanmore » blue staining, but did not significantly reduce the glutamate toxicity. The neurotoxicity of NaHS was resistant to inhibitors of NMDA receptors, T-type calcium channels and NOS, and was blocked by inhibitors of MEK, but not JNK, p38 MAP kinase, PKC and Src. NaHS caused prompt phosphorylation of ERK and upregulation of Bad, followed by translocation of Bax to mitochondria and release of mitochondrial cytochrome c, leading to the nuclear condensation/fragmentation. These effects of NaHS were suppressed by the MEK inhibitor. Our data suggest that the NMDA receptor-independent neurotoxicity of H{sub 2}S involves activation of the MEK/ERK pathway and some apoptotic mechanisms.« less

Effect of liquid nitrogen pre-treatment on various types of wool waste fibres for biogas production.

PubMed

Kuzmanova, Elena; Zhelev, Nikolai; Akunna, Joseph C

2018-05-01

This study investigated the role of liquid nitrogen (LN 2 ) in increasing microbial accessibility of wool proteins for biogas production. It involves a mechanical size reduction of four different types of raw wool fibres, namely, Blackface, Bluefaced Leicester, Texel and Scotch Mule, in presence of liquid nitrogen, followed by the determination of the methane production potential of the pre-treated wool fibres. The highest methane yield, 157.3 cm 3 g -1 VS, was obtained from pre-treated Scotch mule wool fibre culture, and represented more than 80% increase when compared to the yield obtained from its raw equivalent culture. The increase in biogas yield was attributed to the effectiveness of LN 2 in enhancing particle size reduction and the consequent increase in wool solubility and bioavailability. Results also showed that LN 2 pre-treatment can enhance size reduction but has limited effect on the molecular structure. The study also showed that the biogas potential of waste wool fibres varies with the type and source of wool.

Temporal and spectral profiles of stimulus-stimulus and stimulus-response conflict processing.

PubMed

Wang, Kai; Li, Qi; Zheng, Ya; Wang, Hongbin; Liu, Xun

2014-04-01

The ability to detect and resolve conflict is an essential function of cognitive control. Laboratory studies often use stimulus-response-compatibility (SRC) tasks to examine conflict processing in order to elucidate the mechanism and modular organization of cognitive control. Inspired by two influential theories regarding cognitive control, the conflict monitoring theory (Botvinick, Braver, Barch, Carter, & Cohen, 2001) and dimensional overlap taxonomy (Kornblum, Hasbroucq, & Osman, 1990), we explored the temporal and spectral similarities and differences between processing of stimulus-stimulus (S-S) and stimulus-response (S-R) conflicts with event related potential (ERP) and time-frequency measures. We predicted that processing of S-S conflict starts earlier than that of S-R conflict and that the two types of conflict may involve different frequency bands. Participants were asked to perform two parallel SRC tasks, both combining the Stroop task (involving S-S conflict) and Simon task (involving S-R conflict). ERP results showed pronounced SRC effects (incongruent vs. congruent) on N2 and P3 components for both S-S and S-R conflicts. In both tasks, SRC effects of S-S conflict took place earlier than those of S-R conflict. Time-frequency analysis revealed that both types of SRC effects modulated theta and alpha bands, while S-R conflict effects additionally modulated power in the beta band. These results indicated that although S-S and S-R conflict processing shared considerable ERP and time-frequency properties, they differed in temporal and spectral dynamics. We suggest that the modular organization of cognitive control should take both commonality and distinction of S-S and S-R conflict processing into consideration. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Type-2 fuzzy logic control of a 2-DOF helicopter (TRMS system)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zeghlache, Samir; Kara, Kamel; Saigaa, Djamel

2014-09-01

The helicopter dynamic includes nonlinearities, parametric uncertainties and is subject to unknown external disturbances. Such complicated dynamics involve designing sophisticated control algorithms that can deal with these difficulties. In this paper, a type 2 fuzzy logic PID controller is proposed for TRMS (twin rotor mimo system) control problem. Using triangular membership functions and based on a human operator experience, two controllers are designed to control the position of the yaw and the pitch angles of the TRMS. Simulation results are given to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed control scheme.

Effects of Elevated Pax6 Expression and Genetic Background on Mouse Eye Development

PubMed Central

Chanas, Simon A.; Collinson, J. Martin; Ramaesh, Thaya; Dorà, Natalie; Kleinjan, Dirk A.; Hill, Robert E.; West, John D.

2009-01-01

Purpose To analyze the effects of Pax6 overexpression and its interaction with genetic background on eye development. Methods Histologic features of eyes from hemizygous PAX77+/− transgenic (high Pax6 gene dose) and wild-type mice were compared on different genetic backgrounds. Experimental PAX77+/−↔wild-type and control wild-type↔wild-type chimeras were analyzed to investigate the causes of abnormal eye development in PAX77+/− mice. Results PAX77+/− mice showed an overlapping but distinct spectrum of eye abnormalities to Pax6+/− heterozygotes (low Pax6 dose). Some previously reported PAX77+/− eye abnormalities did not occur on all three genetic backgrounds examined. Several types of eye abnormalities occurred in the experimental PAX77+/−↔wild-type chimeras, and they occurred more frequently in chimeras with higher contributions of PAX77+/− cells. Groups of RPE cells intruded into the optic nerve sheath, indicating that the boundary between the retina and optic nerve may be displaced. Both PAX77+/− and wild-type cells were involved in this ingression and in retinal folds, suggesting that neither effect was cell-autonomous. Cell-autonomous effects included failure of PAX77+/− and wild-type cells to mix normally and overrepresentation of PAX77+/− in the lens epithelium and RPE. Conclusions The extent of PAX77+/− eye abnormalities depended on PAX77+/− genotype, genetic background, and stochastic variation. Chimera analysis identified two types of cell-autonomous effects of the PAX77+/− genotype. Abnormal cell mixing between PAX77+/− and wild-type cells suggests altered expression of cell surface adhesion molecules. Some phenotypic differences between PAX77+/−↔wild-type and Pax6+/−↔wild-type chimeras may reflect differences in the levels of PAX77+/− and Pax6+/− contributions to chimeric lenses. PMID:19387074

Fatal crash involvement and laws against alcohol-impaired driving.

PubMed

Zador, P L; Lund, A K; Fields, M; Weinberg, K

1989-01-01

It is estimated that in 1985 about 1,560 fewer drivers were involved in fatal crashes because of three types of drinking-driving laws. The laws studied were per se laws that define driving under the influence using blood alcohol concentration (BAC) thresholds; laws that provide for administrative license suspension or revocation prior to conviction for driving under the influence (often referred to as "administrative per se" laws); and laws that mandate jail or community service for first convictions of driving under the influence. It is estimated that if all 48 of the contiguous states adopted laws similar to those studied here, and if these new laws had effects comparable to those reported here, another 2,600 fatal driver involvements could be prevented each year. During hours when typically at least half of all fatally injured drivers have a BAC over 0.10 percent, administrative suspension/revocation is estimated to reduce the involvement of drivers in fatal crashes by about 9 percent; during the same hours, first offense mandatory jail/community service laws are estimated to have reduced driver involvement by about 6 percent. The effect of per se laws was estimated to be a 6 percent reduction during hours when fatal crashes typically are less likely to involve alcohol. These results are based on analyses of drivers involved in fatal crashes in the 48 contiguous states of the United States during the years 1978 to 1985.

The Effect of Diabetes Self-Management Education on Hba1c Level and Fasting Blood Sugar in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients in Primary Health Care in Binjai City of North Sumatera, Indonesia.

PubMed

Rusdiana; Savira, Maya; Amelia, Rina

2018-04-15

The study aimed to evaluate the effect of short-term diabetes self-management education (DSME) on Hba1and Fasting Blood Sugar in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients attending the Primary Health Care (PHC) in Binjai city of North Sumatera, Indonesia. A quasi-experimental (pretest-posttest) study was conducted in 4 PHCs, involving 80 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. The patients in received a 3-months intervention, including an 8 week education on self- management of diabetes mellitus and subsequent 4 weeks of practice of the self- management guidelines.The patients received standard advice on diet management. There was a significant reduction in Hba1c levels. The statistical analysis using t-test found that there was a significant difference of Hba1c value between pre and post education among type 2 diabetes mellitus patients (p < 0.005). Diabetes self-management education in PHC of Binjai city can reduce the Hba1c level in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients.

Role of T-type calcium channels in myogenic tone of skeletal muscle resistance arteries.

PubMed

VanBavel, Ed; Sorop, Oana; Andreasen, Ditte; Pfaffendorf, Martin; Jensen, Boye L

2002-12-01

T-type calcium channels may be involved in the maintenance of myogenic tone. We tested their role in isolated rat cremaster arterioles obtained after CO(2) anesthesia and decapitation. Total RNA was analyzed by RT-PCR and Southern blotting for calcium channel expression. We observed expression of voltage-operated calcium (Ca(V)) channels Ca(V)3.1 (T-type), Ca(V)3.2 (T-type), and Ca(V)1.2 (L-type) in cremaster arterioles (n = 3 rats). Amplification products were observed only in the presence of reverse transcriptase and cDNA. Concentration-response curves of the relatively specific L-type blocker verapamil and the relatively specific T-type blockers mibefradil and nickel were made on cannulated vessels with either myogenic tone (75 mmHg) or a similar level of constriction induced by 30 mM K(+) at 35 mmHg. Mibefradil and nickel were, respectively, 162-fold and 300-fold more potent in inhibiting myogenic tone compared with K(+)-induced constriction [log(IC(50), M): mibefradil, basal -7.3 +/- 0.2 (n = 9) and K(+) -5.1 +/- 0.1 (n = 5); nickel, basal -4.1 +/- 0.2 (n = 5) and K(+) -1.6 +/- 0.5 (n = 5); means +/- SE]. Verapamil had a 17-fold more potent effect [log(IC(50), M): basal -6.6 +/- 0.1 (n = 5); K(+) -5.4 +/- 0.3 (n = 4); all log(IC(50)) P < 0.05, basal vs. K(+)]. These data suggest that T-type calcium channels are expressed and involved in maintenance of myogenic tone in rat cremaster muscle arterioles.

11β-Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenase Type 1 in Obese Subjects With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus.

PubMed

Li, Xia; Wang, Jingli; Yang, Qin; Shao, Shiying

2017-10-01

Obesity is one of the most significant contributors to the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Tissue-specific glucocorticoids regulated by 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase enzyme (11β-HSD) type 1 are involved in central obesity and obesity-related comorbidities. Moderate downregulation of 11β-HSD1 can attenuate insulin insensitivity and the impairment of glucose-stimulated insulin secretion. Some of the beneficial effects of 11β-HSD1 inhibition may be mediated, at least in part, through inactivation of tissue-specific glucocorticoid action related to insulin signaling mechanisms, alleviation of abnormal cytokine profile and the improvement of β-cell function. Thus, 11β-HSD1 is a promising target for the treatment and prevention of type 2 diabetes mellitus with obesity. Copyright © 2017 Southern Society for Clinical Investigation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Who's feeding baby? Non-maternal involvement in feeding and its association with dietary intakes among infants and toddlers.

PubMed

Wasser, Heather M; Thompson, Amanda L; Siega-Riz, Anna Maria; Adair, Linda S; Hodges, Eric A; Bentley, Margaret E

2013-12-01

This study examined non-maternal involvement in feeding during the first 2 years of life and its association with breastfeeding duration, early introduction of complementary foods, and dietary intakes of selected foods and beverages. Data were from the Infant Care, Feeding and Risk of Obesity Study, a cohort of 217 low-income, African-American mother-infant dyads, followed from 3 to 18 months postpartum. Non-maternal caregivers (NMCs) were defined as persons involved in feeding an infant/toddler 50% or more of the total daily feedings. Use of any NMC and the type of NMC was tabulated for each study visit (3, 6, 9, 12, and 18 months). At each time point, more than half of all households reported a NMC. Fathers, grandmothers, and licensed childcare providers were the most common types of NMCs. In longitudinal models adjusted for confounding variables, NMC use was associated with a decreased likelihood of continued breastfeeding, and an increased likelihood of infants and toddlers consuming juice or whole fruit. Given the high prevalence of non-maternal involvement in feeding, interventions targeting multiple family members are warranted as they are likely to be more effective than those targeting the mother alone. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Who’s feeding baby? Non-maternal involvement in feeding and its association with dietary intakes among infants and toddlers

PubMed Central

Wasser, Heather M.; Thompson, Amanda L.; Siega-Riz, Anna Maria; Adair, Linda S.; Hodges, Eric A.; Bentley, Margaret E.

2013-01-01

This study examined non-maternal involvement in feeding during the first two years of life and its association with breastfeeding duration, early introduction of complementary foods, and dietary intakes of selected foods and beverages. Data were from the Infant Care, Feeding and Risk of Obesity Study, a cohort of 217 low-income, African-American mother-infant dyads, followed from 3-18 months postpartum. Non-maternal caregivers (NMCs) were defined as persons involved in feeding an infant/toddler 50% or more of the total daily feedings. Use of any NMC and the type of NMC was tabulated for each study visit (3, 6, 9, 12, and 18 months). At each time point, more than half of all households reported a NMC. Fathers, grandmothers, and licensed childcare providers were the most common types of NMCs. In longitudinal models adjusted for confounding variables, NMC use was associated with a decreased likelihood of continued breastfeeding, and an increased likelihood of infants and toddlers consuming juice or whole fruit. Given the high prevalence of non-maternal involvement in feeding, interventions targeting multiple family members are warranted as they are likely to be more effective than those targeting the mother alone. PMID:23856432

Ectopic Expression of a WRKY Homolog from Glycine soja Alters Flowering Time in Arabidopsis

PubMed Central

Liu, Baohui; Zhu, Dan; Bai, Xi; Cai, Hua; Ji, Wei; Cao, Lei; Wu, Jing; Wang, Mingchao; Ding, Xiaodong; Zhu, Yanming

2013-01-01

Flowering is a critical event in the life cycle of plants; the WRKY-type transcription factors are reported to be involved in many developmental processes sunch as trichome development and epicuticular wax loading, but whether they are involved in flowering time regulation is still unknown. Within this study, we provide clear evidence that GsWRKY20, a member of WRKY gene family from wild soybean, is involved in controlling plant flowering time. Expression of GsWRKY20 was abundant in the shoot tips and inflorescence meristems of wild soybean. Phenotypic analysis showed that GsWRKY20 over-expression lines flowered earlier than the wild-type plants under all conditions: long-day and short-day photoperiods, vernalization, or exogenous GA3 application, indicating that GsWRKY20 may mainly be involved in an autonomous flowering pathway. Further analyses by qRT-PCR and microarray suggests that GsWRKY20 accelerating plant flowering might primarily be through the regulation of flowering-related genes (i.e., FLC, FT, SOC1 and CO) and floral meristem identity genes (i.e., AP1, SEP3, AP3, PI and AG). Our results provide the evidence demonstrating the effectiveness of manipulating GsWRKY20 for altering plant flowering time. PMID:23991184

Understanding marital conflict 7 years later from prenatal representations of marriage.

PubMed

Curran, Melissa; Ogolsky, Brian; Hazen, Nancy; Bosch, Leslie

2011-06-01

We examine how representations of marriage, assessed prenatally, predict different types of marital conflict (cooperation, avoidance/capitulation, stonewalling, and child involvement in parental conflict) at 7 years postpartum (N=132 individuals). We assessed representations of marriage prenatally by interviewing spouses about their own parents' marriage, and then rated the content and insightfulness of their memories. Results show that marital representations characterized by higher insight predict higher cooperation and lower child involvement in parental conflict, whereas content of marital representations was not a significant predictor of marital conflict. Further, individuals who remember negative memories from their parents' marriage with high insight were lowest on child involvement in parental conflict, whereas those who remember negative memories with low insight were highest on child involvement in parental conflict. Finally, women who remember negative content with high insight report the highest cooperation, whereas women who remember negative content with low insight report the lowest cooperation. For men, however, marital representations were less effective in predicting later cooperation. We conclude that marital representations, even when assessed prenatally, influence certain types of marital conflict 7 years later. Using such findings, therapists could help spouses gain insight into how the memories of their parents' marriage relate to the use of specific conflict strategies in their marriage. 2011 © FPI, Inc.

Examining the interaction of parental involvement and parenting style in predicting adherence in youth with type 1 diabetes.

PubMed

Landers, Sara E; Friedrich, Elizabeth A; Jawad, Abbas F; Miller, Victoria A

2016-03-01

This study examined whether aspects of parenting style (specifically, warmth, autonomy support, and coercion) moderated the association between parental involvement and adherence in youth with type 1 diabetes. Children ages 8 to 16 years with type 1 diabetes and a parent completed assessments of parental involvement, parenting style, and adherence. Parent autonomy support and coercion were associated with adherence but warmth was not. Child report of more parental involvement was associated with better adherence. Warmth, autonomy support, and coercion were not moderators. The findings underscore the importance of parental involvement, operationalized as responsibility for diabetes tasks, and parenting style, specifically coercion and autonomy support, for adherence in pediatric chronic illness management. Longitudinal research is needed to better understand how and why dimensions of involvement (e.g., responsibility, monitoring, support) vary over time and whether they impact outcomes differentially. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved).

The Association of Current Violence from Adult Family Members with Adolescent Bullying Involvement and Suicidal Feelings.

PubMed

Fujikawa, Shinya; Ando, Shuntaro; Shimodera, Shinji; Koike, Shinsuke; Usami, Satoshi; Toriyama, Rie; Kanata, Sho; Sasaki, Tsukasa; Kasai, Kiyoto; Okazaki, Yuji; Nishida, Atsushi

2016-01-01

Although several studies have reported that child physical abuse increased the risk for bullying involvement, the effect of current violence from adult family members (CVA) on bullying involvement and suicidal feelings among adolescents has not been sufficiently examined. This study investigated the association of CVA with adolescent bullying involvement and the interaction effect of CVA and bullying involvement on suicidal feelings. This cross-sectional study used data from a school-based survey with a general population of adolescents (grades 7 to 12). Data were collected using a self-report questionnaire completed by 17,530 students. Logistic regression analyses were performed to explore the association of CVA with adolescent bullying involvement and suicidal feelings. The overall response rate was 90.2%. The odds of students being characterized as bullies, victims, and bully-victims were higher among adolescents with CVA than without CVA (odds ratios (OR) = 2.9, 95% confidence interval (CI), [2.3-3.7], 4.6 [3.6-5.8], and 5.8 [4.4-7.6], respectively). Both CVA (OR = 3.4 [95% CI 2.7-4.3]) and bullying (bullies, victims, and bully-victims; OR = 2.0 [95% CI 1.6-2.6], 4.0 [3.1-5.1], 4.1 [3.0-5.6], respectively), were associated with increased odds of current suicidal feelings after adjusting for confounding factors. Furthermore, positive additive effects of CVA and all three types of bullying involvement on suicidal feelings were found. For example, bully-victims with CVA had about 19-fold higher odds of suicidal feelings compared with uninvolved adolescents without CVA. This study, although correlational, suggested that CVA avoidance might prevent bullying involvement and suicidal feelings in adolescents.

The Association of Current Violence from Adult Family Members with Adolescent Bullying Involvement and Suicidal Feelings

PubMed Central

Shimodera, Shinji; Koike, Shinsuke; Usami, Satoshi; Toriyama, Rie; Kanata, Sho; Sasaki, Tsukasa; Kasai, Kiyoto; Okazaki, Yuji; Nishida, Atsushi

2016-01-01

Although several studies have reported that child physical abuse increased the risk for bullying involvement, the effect of current violence from adult family members (CVA) on bullying involvement and suicidal feelings among adolescents has not been sufficiently examined. This study investigated the association of CVA with adolescent bullying involvement and the interaction effect of CVA and bullying involvement on suicidal feelings. This cross-sectional study used data from a school-based survey with a general population of adolescents (grades 7 to 12). Data were collected using a self-report questionnaire completed by 17,530 students. Logistic regression analyses were performed to explore the association of CVA with adolescent bullying involvement and suicidal feelings. The overall response rate was 90.2%. The odds of students being characterized as bullies, victims, and bully-victims were higher among adolescents with CVA than without CVA (odds ratios (OR) = 2.9, 95% confidence interval (CI), [2.3–3.7], 4.6 [3.6–5.8], and 5.8 [4.4–7.6], respectively). Both CVA (OR = 3.4 [95% CI 2.7–4.3]) and bullying (bullies, victims, and bully-victims; OR = 2.0 [95% CI 1.6–2.6], 4.0 [3.1–5.1], 4.1 [3.0–5.6], respectively), were associated with increased odds of current suicidal feelings after adjusting for confounding factors. Furthermore, positive additive effects of CVA and all three types of bullying involvement on suicidal feelings were found. For example, bully-victims with CVA had about 19-fold higher odds of suicidal feelings compared with uninvolved adolescents without CVA. This study, although correlational, suggested that CVA avoidance might prevent bullying involvement and suicidal feelings in adolescents. PMID:27711150

How similar are recognition memory and inductive reasoning?

PubMed

Hayes, Brett K; Heit, Evan

2013-07-01

Conventionally, memory and reasoning are seen as different types of cognitive activities driven by different processes. In two experiments, we challenged this view by examining the relationship between recognition memory and inductive reasoning involving multiple forms of similarity. A common study set (members of a conjunctive category) was followed by a test set containing old and new category members, as well as items that matched the study set on only one dimension. The study and test sets were presented under recognition or induction instructions. In Experiments 1 and 2, the inductive property being generalized was varied in order to direct attention to different dimensions of similarity. When there was no time pressure on decisions, patterns of positive responding were strongly affected by property type, indicating that different types of similarity were driving recognition and induction. By comparison, speeded judgments showed weaker property effects and could be explained by generalization based on overall similarity. An exemplar model, GEN-EX (GENeralization from EXamples), could account for both the induction and recognition data. These findings show that induction and recognition share core component processes, even when the tasks involve flexible forms of similarity.

Atelosteogenesis type II is caused by mutations in the diastrophic dysplasia sulfate-transporter gene (DTDST): Evidence for a phenotypic series involving three chondrodysplasias

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

Haestbacka, J.; Lander, E.S.; Superti-Furga, A.

1996-02-01

Atelosteogenesis type II (AO II) is a neonatally lethal chondrodysplasia whose clinical and histological characteristics resemble those of another chondrodysplasia, the much less severe diastrophic dysplasia (DTD). The similarity suggests a shared pathogenesis involving lesions in the same biochemical pathway and perhaps the same gene. DTD is caused by mutations in the recently identified diastrophic dysplasia sulfate-transporter gene (DTDST). Here, we report that AOII patients also have DTDST mutations, which lead to defective uptake of inorganic sulfate and insufficient sulfation of macromolecules by patient mesenchymal cells in vitro. Together with our recent observation that a third even more severe chondrodysplasia,more » achondrogenesis type IB, is also caused by mutations in DTDST, these results demonstrate a phenotypic series of three chondrodysplasias of increasing severity caused by lesions in a single sulfate-transporter gene. The severity of the phenotype appears to be correlated with the predicted effect of the mutations on the residual activity of the DTDST protein. 24 refs., 6 figs., 1 tab.« less

Understanding physical activity in adults with type 2 diabetes after completing an exercise intervention trial: A mediation model of self-efficacy and autonomous motivation.

PubMed

Sweet, Shane N; Fortier, Michelle S; Guérin, Eva; Tulloch, Heather; Sigal, Ronald J; Kenny, Glen P; Reid, Robert D

2009-08-01

This study was set out to test if autonomous motivation mediated the relationship between self-efficacy and 12-month physical activity (PA) in adults with type 2 diabetes involved in a randomized exercise trial. Participants (n = 234) completed questionnaires measuring barrier self-efficacy at 3 months, autonomous motivation at 6 months, and PA at 12 months. A mediational analysis of longitudinal data revealed that autonomous motivation mediated the relationship between barrier-self-efficacy and PA. High barrier self-efficacy can therefore help predict 12-month PA in adults with type 2 diabetes, although this effect is attenuated by autonomous motivation. Hence, participating in PA for autonomous reasons such as by choice and/or for fun further explains PA at 12 months in this population. Results of this study extend our understanding of the motivational constructs involved in PA in the maintenance phase. This study has important theoretical implications in that it helps to organize and consolidate well-known correlates of PA by proposing a temporal relationship between them that could be tailored in interventions.

The organization of multidisciplinary care teams: modeling internal and external influences on cancer care quality.

PubMed

Fennell, Mary L; Das, Irene Prabhu; Clauser, Steven; Petrelli, Nicholas; Salner, Andrew

2010-01-01

Quality cancer treatment depends upon careful coordination between multiple treatments and treatment providers, the exchange of technical information, and regular communication between all providers and physician disciplines involved in treatment. This article will examine a particular type of organizational structure purported to regularize and streamline the communication between multiple specialists and support services involved in cancer treatment: the multidisciplinary treatment care (MDC) team. We present a targeted review of what is known about various types of MDC team structures and their impact on the quality of treatment care, and we outline a conceptual model of the connections between team context, structure, process, and performance and their subsequent effects on cancer treatment care processes and patient outcomes. Finally, we will discuss future research directions to understand how MDC teams improve patient outcomes and how characteristics of team structure, culture, leadership, and context (organizational setting and local environment) contribute to optimal multidisciplinary cancer care.

Observations on the antibody-dependent cytotoxic cell by scanning electron microscopy.

PubMed Central

Inglis, J R; Penhale, W J; Farmer, A; Irvine, W J; Williams, A E

1975-01-01

The cytotoxic effect of human peripheral blood leucocytes on antibody-coated sheep erythrocyte monolayers has been investigated using scanning electron microscopy. Only a small proportion of leucocytes were found to adhere to the monolayers. A progressive destruction was observed beginning as small plaque-like areas of erythrocyte clearing which later became confluent. Three distinct cell types were found to be associated with the areas of lysis. No destruction was observed in control monolayers incubated for a similar period in the absence of either antibody of leucocytes. Surface changes in the erthrocytes adjacent to the leucocytes suggest that mechanical factors may be involved in erythrocyte lysis in this system. It is concluded that more than one leucocyte type may damage antibody-coated erythrocytes, possibly by a mechanism involving attachment to and mechanical disruption of the red cell membrane. Images FIG. 5 FIG. 2 FIG. 3 FIG. 1 FIG. 2 FIG. 4 PMID:1191386

Case report of meningiomatosis with aspiration of a dental bridge improved by comprehensive rehabilitation therapy

PubMed Central

Suh, Min Ji; Han, Eun Young; Kim, Bo Ryun; Lee, Jong Hoo

2016-01-01

[Purpose] The aim of this study was to ascertain the effect of comprehensive rehabilitation therapy on a quadriplegic patient with meningiomatosis and severe dysphagia. [Subject and Methods] Meningiomatosis is defined as multiple meningiomas involved in several intracranial regions, which occurs more frequently in elderly patients. The prognosis of meningiomatosis is mostly reported as benign, but the prognosis for some malignant cases can be poor. Furthermore, dysphagia in elderly patients with brain lesions may lead to foreign body aspiration, which can be fatal. The removable type of dental prosthesis is a common cause of aspiration, but aspiration is rare with the fixed type. [Results] This report presents a rare case of bronchial aspiration involving a fixed dental prosthesis in an elderly meningiomatosis patient that was improved following comprehensive rehabilitation therapy. [Conclusion] Thorough evaluation and individualized assessment of rehabilitation goals is recommended for the care of severe comorbid elderly patients. PMID:28174477

The Interaction of Endothelin-1 and TGF-β1 Mediates Vascular Cell Remodeling

PubMed Central

Lambers, Christopher; Roth, Michael; Zhong, Jun; Campregher, Christoph; Binder, Petra; Burian, Bernhard; Petkov, Ventzislav; Block, Lutz-Henning

2013-01-01

Background Pulmonary arterial hypertension is characterized by increased thickness of pulmonary vessel walls due to both increased proliferation of pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cell (PASMC) and deposition of extracellular matrix. In patients suffering from pulmonary arterial hypertension, endothelin-1 (ET-1) synthesis is up-regulated and may increase PASMC activity and vessel wall remodeling through transforming growth factor beta-1 (TGF-β1) and connective tissue growth factor. Objective To assess the signaling pathway leading to ET-1 induced proliferation and extracellular matrix deposition by human PASMC. Methods PASMC were serum starved for 24 hours before stimulation with either ET-1 and/or TGF-β1. ET-1 was inhibited by Bosentan, ERK1/2 mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) was inhibited by U0126 and p38 MAPK was inhibited by SB203580. Results ET-1 increased PASMC proliferation when combined with serum. This effect involved the mitogen activated protein kinases (MAPK) ERK1/2 MAPK and was abrogated by Bosentan which caused a G1- arrest through activation of p27(Kip). Regarding the contribution of extracellular matrix deposition in vessel wall remodeling, TGF-β1 increased the deposition of collagen type-I and fibronectin, which was further increased when ET-1 was added mainly through ERK1/2 MAPK. In contrast, collagen type-IV was not affected by ET-1. Bosentan dose-dependently reduced the stimulatory effect of ET-1 on collagen type-I and fibronectin, but had no effect on TGF-β1. Conclusion and Clinical Relevance ET-1 alone does not induce PASMC proliferation and extracellular matrix deposition. However, ET-1 significantly up-regulates serum induced proliferation and TGF-β1 induced extracellular matrix deposition, specifically of collagen type-I and fibronectin. The synergistic effects of ET-1 on serum and TGF-β1 involve ERK1/2 MAPK and may thus present a novel mode of action in the pathogenesis of pulmonary arterial hypertension. PMID:24015303

Theoretical description of magnetocaloric effect in the shape memory alloy exhibiting metamagnetic behavior

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

L'vov, Victor A.; Taras Shevchenko National University, Kyiv 01601; Kosogor, Anna, E-mail: annakosogor@gmail.com

2016-01-07

A simple thermodynamic theory is proposed for the quantitative description of giant magnetocaloric effect observed in metamagnetic shape memory alloys. Both the conventional magnetocaloric effect at the Curie temperature and the inverse magnetocaloric effect at the transition from the ferromagnetic austenite to a weakly magnetic martensite are considered. These effects are evaluated from the Landau-type free energy expression involving exchange interactions in a system of a two magnetic sublattices. The findings of the thermodynamic theory agree with first-principles calculations and experimental results from Ni-Mn-In-Co and Ni-Mn-Sn alloys, respectively.

Real World Crash Evaluation of Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) Technology

PubMed Central

Bahouth, G.

2005-01-01

This study quantifies the effect of Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) in reducing crash involvement rates for a subset of vehicles in the US fleet. Crash rates for a variety of impact types before and after VSC technology was implemented are compared. Police-reported crashes from six available US state files from 1998–2002 were analyzed including 13,987 crash-involved study vehicles not equipped with the technology and 5,671 crashes of vehicles equipped with VSC as a standard feature. Overall, an 11.2% (95% CI: 2.4%, 21.1%) reduction in multi-vehicle frontal crash involvement was identified for VSC-equipped vehicles. A 52.6% (95% CI: 42.5%, 62.7%) reduction in single-vehicle crash rates was found. PMID:16179137

Real world crash evaluation of vehicle stability control (VSC) technology.

PubMed

Bahouth, G

2005-01-01

This study quantifies the effect of Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) in reducing crash involvement rates for a subset of vehicles in the US fleet. Crash rates for a variety of impact types before and after VSC technology was implemented are compared. Police-reported crashes from six available US state files from 1998-2002 were analyzed including 13,987 crash-involved study vehicles not equipped with the technology and 5,671 crashes of vehicles equipped with VSC as a standard feature. Overall, an 11.2% (95% CI: 2.4%, 21.1%) reduction in multi-vehicle frontal crash involvement was identified for VSC-equipped vehicles. A 52.6% (95% CI: 42.5%, 62.7%) reduction in single-vehicle crash rates was found.

Brief report: how adolescent personality moderates the effect of love history on the young adulthood romantic relationship quality?

PubMed

Yu, Rongqin; Branje, Susan; Keijsers, Loes; Meeus, Wim

2014-07-01

This study examined the effect of previous romantic relationship involvement on later romantic relationship quality and tested whether adolescents' personality type (i.e., overcontrollers, undercontrollers, resilients) moderated this link. We answered our research questions in a sample of 320 Dutch participants (213 girls) who had a romantic relationship when they were 21 years old. At 12 years of age, their personality types were identified. At 21 years of age, participants reported their current romantic relationship quality (i.e., commitment, exploration, and reconsideration) and indicated the number of romantic relationships they had before. No main effects of the number of romantic relationships on current romantic relationship quality were found. There were significant interaction effects between personality types and the number of romantic relationships on romantic relationship quality. With more romantic relationship experiences, undercontrollers committed less to and explored less in their current romantic relationship. No such link was found for resilients and overcontrollers. Copyright © 2014 The Foundation for Professionals in Services for Adolescents. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Goal-directed mechanisms that constrain retrieval predict subsequent memory for new "foil" information.

PubMed

Vogelsang, David A; Bonnici, Heidi M; Bergström, Zara M; Ranganath, Charan; Simons, Jon S

2016-08-01

To remember a previous event, it is often helpful to use goal-directed control processes to constrain what comes to mind during retrieval. Behavioral studies have demonstrated that incidental learning of new "foil" words in a recognition test is superior if the participant is trying to remember studied items that were semantically encoded compared to items that were non-semantically encoded. Here, we applied subsequent memory analysis to fMRI data to understand the neural mechanisms underlying the "foil effect". Participants encoded information during deep semantic and shallow non-semantic tasks and were tested in a subsequent blocked memory task to examine how orienting retrieval towards different types of information influences the incidental encoding of new words presented as foils during the memory test phase. To assess memory for foils, participants performed a further surprise old/new recognition test involving foil words that were encountered during the previous memory test blocks as well as completely new words. Subsequent memory effects, distinguishing successful versus unsuccessful incidental encoding of foils, were observed in regions that included the left inferior frontal gyrus and posterior parietal cortex. The left inferior frontal gyrus exhibited disproportionately larger subsequent memory effects for semantic than non-semantic foils, and significant overlap in activity during semantic, but not non-semantic, initial encoding and foil encoding. The results suggest that orienting retrieval towards different types of foils involves re-implementing the neurocognitive processes that were involved during initial encoding. Copyright © 2016 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

Spatial panel analyses of alcohol outlets and motor vehicle crashes in California: 1999–2008

PubMed Central

Ponicki, William R.; Gruenewald, Paul J.; Remer, Lillian G.

2014-01-01

Although past research has linked alcohol outlet density to higher rates of drinking and many related social problems, there is conflicting evidence of density’s association with traffic crashes. An abundance of local alcohol outlets simultaneously encourages drinking and reduces driving distances required to obtain alcohol, leading to an indeterminate expected impact on alcohol-involved crash risk. This study separately investigates the effects of outlet density on (1) the risk of injury crashes relative to population and (2) the likelihood that any given crash is alcohol-involved, as indicated by police reports and single-vehicle nighttime status of crashes. Alcohol outlet density effects are estimated using Bayesian misalignment Poisson analyses of all California ZIP codes over the years 1999–2008. These misalignment models allow panel analysis of ZIP-code data despite frequent redefinition of postal-code boundaries, while also controlling for overdispersion and the effects of spatial autocorrelation. Because models control for overall retail density, estimated alcohol-outlet associations represent the extra effect of retail establishments selling alcohol. The results indicate a number of statistically well-supported associations between retail density and crash behavior, but the implied effects on crash risks are relatively small. Alcohol-serving restaurants have a greater impact on overall crash risks than on the likelihood that those crashes involve alcohol, whereas bars primarily affect the odds that crashes are alcohol-involved. Off-premise outlet density is negatively associated with risks of both crashes and alcohol involvement, while the presence of a tribal casino in a ZIP code is linked to higher odds of police-reported drinking involvement. Alcohol outlets in a given area are found to influence crash risks both locally and in adjacent ZIP codes, and significant spatial autocorrelation also suggests important relationships across geographical units. These results suggest that each type of alcohol outlet can have differing impacts on risks of crashing as well as the alcohol involvement of those crashes. PMID:23537623

Estimation of fatality and injury risk by means of in-depth fatal accident investigation data.

PubMed

Yannis, George; Papadimitriou, Eleonora; Dupont, Emmanuelle; Martensen, Heike

2010-10-01

In this article the factors affecting fatality and injury risk of road users involved in fatal accidents are analyzed by means of in-depth accident investigation data, with emphasis on parameters not extensively explored in previous research. A fatal accident investigation (FAI) database is used, which includes intermediate-level in-depth data for a harmonized representative sample of 1300 fatal accidents in 7 European countries. The FAI database offers improved potential for analysis, because it includes information on a number of variables that are seldom available, complete, or accurately recorded in road accident databases. However, the fact that only fatal accidents are examined requires for methodological adjustments, namely, the correction for two types of effects on a road user's baseline risk: "accident size" effects, and "relative vulnerability" effects. Fatality and injury risk can be then modeled through multilevel logistic regression models, which account for the hierarchical dependences of the road accident process. The results show that the baseline fatality risk of road users involved in fatal accidents decreases with accident size and increases with the vulnerability of the road user. On the contrary, accident size increases nonfatal injury risk of road users involved in fatal accidents. Other significant effects on fatality and injury risk in fatal accidents include road user age, vehicle type, speed limit, the chain of accident events, vehicle maneuver, and safety equipment. In particular, the presence and use of safety equipment such as seat belt, antilock braking system (ABS), and electronic stability program (ESP) are protection factors for car occupants, especially for those seated at the front seats. Although ABS and ESP systems are typically associated with positive effects on accident occurrence, the results of this research revealed significant related effects on accident severity as well. Moreover, accident consequences are more severe when the most harmful event of the accident occurs later within the accident chain.

Action of aluminum, novel TPC1-type channel inhibitor, against salicylate-induced and cold-shock-induced calcium influx in tobacco BY-2 cells.

PubMed

Lin, Cun; Yu, Yawei; Kadono, Takashi; Iwata, Michiaki; Umemura, Kenji; Furuichi, Takuya; Kuse, Masaki; Isobe, Minoru; Yamamoto, Yoko; Matsumoto, Hideaki; Yoshizuka, Kazuharu; Kawano, Tomonori

2005-07-08

Previously, effect of Al ions on calcium signaling was assessed in tobacco cells expressing a Ca2+-monitoring luminescent protein, aequorin and a newly isolated putative plant Ca2+ channel protein from Arabidopsis thaliana, AtTPC1 (two-pore channel 1). TPC1 channels were shown to be the only channel known to be sensitive to Al and they are responsive to reactive oxygen species and cryptogein, a fungal elicitor protein. Thus, involvement of TPC1 channels in calcium signaling leading to development of plant defense mechanism has been suggested. Then, the use of Al as a specific inhibitor of TPC1-type plant calcium channels has been proposed. Here, using transgenic tobacco BY-2 cells expressing aequorin, we report on the evidence in support of the involvement of Al-sensitive signaling pathway requiring TPC1-type channel-dependent Ca2+ influx in response to salicylic acid, a key plant defense-inducing agent, but not to an elicitor prepared from the cell wall of rice blast disease fungus Magnaporthe grisea. In addition, involvement of Al-sensitive Ca2+ channels in response to cold shock was also tested. The data suggested that the elicitor used here induces the Ca2+ influx via Al-insensitive path, while salicylic acid and cold-shock-stimulate the influx of Ca2+ via Al-sensitive mechanism.

36 CFR Appendix A to Part 800 - Criteria for Council Involvement in Reviewing Individual section 106 Cases

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... unusual or noteworthy importance or are a rare property type; or adverse effects to large numbers of... 36 Parks, Forests, and Public Property 3 2013-07-01 2012-07-01 true Criteria for Council... Property ADVISORY COUNCIL ON HISTORIC PRESERVATION PROTECTION OF HISTORIC PROPERTIES Pt. 800, App. A...

36 CFR Appendix A to Part 800 - Criteria for Council Involvement in Reviewing Individual section 106 Cases

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... unusual or noteworthy importance or are a rare property type; or adverse effects to large numbers of... 36 Parks, Forests, and Public Property 3 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Criteria for Council... Property ADVISORY COUNCIL ON HISTORIC PRESERVATION PROTECTION OF HISTORIC PROPERTIES Pt. 800, App. A...

36 CFR Appendix A to Part 800 - Criteria for Council Involvement in Reviewing Individual section 106 Cases

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... unusual or noteworthy importance or are a rare property type; or adverse effects to large numbers of... 36 Parks, Forests, and Public Property 3 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Criteria for Council... Property ADVISORY COUNCIL ON HISTORIC PRESERVATION PROTECTION OF HISTORIC PROPERTIES Pt. 800, App. A...

36 CFR Appendix A to Part 800 - Criteria for Council Involvement in Reviewing Individual section 106 Cases

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... unusual or noteworthy importance or are a rare property type; or adverse effects to large numbers of... 36 Parks, Forests, and Public Property 3 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Criteria for Council... Property ADVISORY COUNCIL ON HISTORIC PRESERVATION PROTECTION OF HISTORIC PROPERTIES Pt. 800, App. A...

36 CFR Appendix A to Part 800 - Criteria for Council Involvement in Reviewing Individual section 106 Cases

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... unusual or noteworthy importance or are a rare property type; or adverse effects to large numbers of... 36 Parks, Forests, and Public Property 3 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Criteria for Council... Property ADVISORY COUNCIL ON HISTORIC PRESERVATION PROTECTION OF HISTORIC PROPERTIES Pt. 800, App. A...

Assessing the Relationship between Different Types of Student Feedback and the Quality of Revised Writing

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Diab, Nuwar Mawlawi

2011-01-01

This paper reports on a quasi-experimental study comparing the effects of peer-editing to self-editing on improving students' revised drafts. The study involved two intact classes (experimental and control groups) of an English course. The experimental group practiced peer-editing while the control group engaged in self-editing. After receiving…

The effect of the 'Hyuuga' soybean lesion type and canopy severity on yield loss in the presence of soybean rust (Phakopsora pachyrhizi)

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Soybean rust, caused by the fungal pathogen Phakopsora pachyrhizi, occurs in many areas of the world and is a destructive foliar disease. Susceptible soybean leaves exhibit a “TAN” reaction characterized by lesions with abundant urediniospores, while resistant reactions involve either an immune resp...

Social, Mental, Academic and Physical Development in Groups Doing Sports

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Nas, Kazim; Temel, Veysel; Akpinar, Selahattin; Akpinar, Oznur

2012-01-01

The aim of this study is to show whether sport has an effect on education/academic success and social, mental and physical development or not. The search involves 160 students studying at Physical Education and Sports High School at Karamanoglu Mehmetbey University. Graded quintet likert type questionnaire was used as a measuring means. The first…

Leveraging International Cooperation Acquisition Opportunities for the Department of Defense

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-09-01

International Involvement as it relates to Defense Acquisition can be conducted through three types of programs; international armaments cooperation...render them more effective coalition partners and assist with establishing stronger international relations . 58 THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT...illicit manufacture and trafficking of narcotic and psychotropic drugs , money laundering, and precursor chemical diversion and the progressive

Pollution control: utility ships adapt for spill cleanups

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

Not Available

1986-02-01

A practical and cost effective approach to oil spill cleanup is being undertaken by Dutch companies. The approach involves constructing and equipping multi-use ships for pollution control. Usually, these ships are maintained in another type of service and come into use for spill cleanup only when needed. The use of these ships in pollution control is discussed.

Language of Children with Disabilities to Peers at Play: Impact of Ecology

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mills, Paulette E.; Beecher, Constance C.; Dale, Philip S.; Cole, Kevin N.; Jenkins, Joseph R.

2014-01-01

Play is a significant aspect of preschool curricula. We report two studies that examine the effects of play-related variables: length of free play, type of language instructional approach, degree of structure of free play, and amount of teacher involvement in communication with peers. For each study, we target three dependent variables: rate of…

A Validation of Cognitive Evaluation Theory.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

McDonald, Charles H.

The role of money and other types of feedback on motivation to do a task or job has long been of interest to managers in business. To examine Deci's hypothesis concerning the effects of contingent rewards on intrinsic task interest, 42 high school students worked puzzles involving the solution of mazes and anagrams. Competence in task was made…

Positive and Negative Effects of Chicano Militancy on the Education of the Mexican American.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gonzalez, Nancie L.

Types of organizations (e.g., conservative, militant, those furthering a specific cause, youth organizations, or social club organizations) involved in Chicano movements operating in the 5 southwestern states and other areas with large numbers of Mexican Americans are described in this paper. Such organizations as the League of United Latin…

Community College Workforce Training Programs: Expanding the Mission To Meet Critical Needs.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Beckman, Brenda Marshall; Doucette, Don

1993-01-01

In fall 1992, the League for Innovation in the Community College conducted a survey of 1,042 community colleges to determine the extent and nature of their involvement in workforce training programs, the types of companies served, funding mechanisms, and perceived obstacles to providing effective training. Study findings, based on a 73.2% response…

A Search for the Sources of Excellence: Applying Contemporary Management Theory to Theatre Research.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Jones, Tom; White, Donald D.

A study was conducted to learn about the effective practice of theatre through the application of research methods developed in studies involving other types of organizations. Successful and unsuccessful play directors, as determined by evaluations of their plays in the Southwest Region of the American College Theatre Festival, were surveyed to…

Pleiotropic effects of the sirtuin inhibitor sirtinol involves concentration-dependent modulation of multiple nuclear receptor-mediated pathways in the androgen-responsive prostate cancer cell LNCaP

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Sirtinol, a purported specific inhibitor of the nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD)-dependent type III histone deacetylase (also known as sirtuin), has been used extensively to identify chemopreventive/chemotherapeutic agents that modulate the activity of this group of enzymes. However, the mole...

[Experimental evidence on the role of different types unsaturated fats in the diet on ageing].

PubMed

González-Alonso, Adrian; Pérez-López, Patricia; Varela-López, Alfonso; Ramírez-Tortosa, M Carmen; Battino, Maurizio; Quiles, José L

2015-01-01

Nutrition has been largely related to the physiological ageing process. Several nutrients, such as certain types of dietary fat and various antioxidants have been shown to have positive effects on age-related diseases. The type of dietary fat affects mitochondrial structure and function, as well as its susceptibility to oxidative stress, all factors involved in ageing. The present review aims to summarise the studies conducted by our research group in the past 10 years, using virgin olive oil, sunflower oil, or fish oil as a source of unsaturated fat diet relative to a rat model of ageing. Copyright © 2014 SEGG. Published by Elsevier Espana. All rights reserved.

Mapping structural influences on sex and HIV education in church and secular schools in Zimbabwe.

PubMed

Mpofu, Elias; Mutepfa, Magen Mhaka; Hallfors, Denise Dion

2012-09-01

The authors used state-of-the-art concept mapping approaches to examine structural institutional effects of church and secular high schools on the types of sexual and HIV-prevention education messages transmitted to learners in Zimbabwe. Participants were school teachers (n = 26), school counselors (n = 28), and pastors involved in student pastoral care (n = 14; males = 27, females = 41). They reported on messages perceived to influence sexual decisions of learners in their school setting. The self-report data were clustered into message types using concept mapping and contrasted for consistency of content and structure both between and within type of school. The authors also engaged in curriculum document study with member checks in the participant schools to determine convergence of the evidence on school-type effects of the messages transmitted to students. Church schools prioritized faith-informed sexual and HIV-prevention messages, whereas both types of schools prioritized Life skills education and a future focus. Secular schools prioritized sex and HIV messages in the context of community norms. Facts about HIV and AIDS were relatively underemphasized by church schools. The implicit knowledge values that differentiate types of schools influence learner access to information important for their sexual decisions.

Mapping Structural Influences on Sex and HIV Education in Church and Secular Schools in Zimbabwe

PubMed Central

Mpofu, Elias; Mutepfa, Magen Mhaka; Hallfors, Denise Dion

2012-01-01

We used state-of-the-art concept mapping approaches to examine structural institutional effects of church and secular schools on the types of sexual and HIV prevention education messages transmitted to learners. Participants were school teachers (n=26), school counselors (n=28) and pastors involved in student pastoral care (n=14) (males =27, females =41). They reported on perceived messages to influence sexual decisions of learners in their school setting. The self-report data were clustered into message types using concept mapping and contrasted for consistency of content and structure both between and within type of school. We also engaged in extended document study with member checks in the participant schools to determine convergence of the evidence on school type effects of the messages transmitted to students. Church schools prioritized faith informed sexual and HIV prevention messages, whereas both types of schools prioritized life skills education and a future focus. Secular schools prioritized sex and HIV messages in the context of community norms. Facts about HIV and AIDS were relatively underemphasized by church schools. The implicit knowledge values that differentiate types of schools influence learner access to information important for their sexual decisions. PMID:22582341

Anterior cruciate ligament deterioration correlates with patella osteoarthritis.

PubMed

Iriuchishima, Takanori; Ryu, Keinosuke; Aizawa, Shin; Yorifuji, Hiroshi; Ohyama, Tetsuji; Fu, Freddie H

2014-04-01

The correlation between anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) condition and patella osteoarthritic (OA) changes has not been well reported. The aim of this study was to reveal the correlation between ACL deterioration and the morphology of OA changes in the patella. The hypothesis was that significant correlation between ACL deterioration and patella OA morphology would be revealed in this study. Two hundred ninety-one cadaveric knees from 151 cadavers were included in this study with a median age of 83 years (54-98). Knees were opened with a sub-vastus approach and the ACL condition was classified as intact or deteriorated. Patella OA lesions were classified using Han's method: type 1, no or minimal lesion; type 2, medial facet lesion without involvement of the ridge; type 3, lateral facet lesion without involvement of the ridge; type 4, lesion involving the ridge only; type 5, medial facet lesion with involvement of the ridge; type 6, lateral facet lesion with involvement of the ridge; and type 7, global lesion. OA depth evaluation was performed following Outerbridge's classification. Statistical analysis of the collected data was performed using generalized estimating equations (GEE). The ACL was intact in 277 knees and deteriorated in 14 knees. Patella OA lesions were observed as follows: type 1, 29%; type 2, 15%; type 3, 2%; type 4, 12%; type 5, 18%; type 6, 2%; and type 7, 22%. Outerbridge's classification of over grade 2 OA depth was observed in 73.5% of subjects. When patella OA was divided into types 1-4 and types 5-7, ACL deterioration was correlated with the occurrence of type 5-7 patella OA [OR 6.44, 95%CI 2.27-18.25, p = 0.000]. When patella OA was divided into types 1-6 and type 7, ACL deterioration was correlated with the occurrence of type 7 patella OA [OR 6.02, 95%CI 2.57-14.09, p = 0.000]. When patella OA depth was divided into grades 1-3 and grade 4, ACL deterioration was highly correlated with the occurrence of grade 4 patella OA [OR 9.31, 95%CI 2.96-29.33, p = 0.025]. ACL deterioration is a strong risk factor of wider and deeper OA changes in the patella. For clinical relevance, subjects with ACL tear should be aware of the progression of patella OA.

Chronic Exposure to Rifaximin Causes Hepatic Steatosis in Pregnane X Receptor-Humanized Mice

PubMed Central

Gonzalez, Frank, J.

2012-01-01

Rifaximin, a nonsystemic antibiotic that exhibits low gastrointestinal absorption, is a potent agonist of human pregnane X receptor (PXR), which contributes to its therapeutic efficacy in inflammatory bowel disease. To investigate the effects of long-term administration of rifaximin on the liver, PXR-humanized mice were administered rifaximin for 6 months; wild-type and Pxr-null mice were treated in parallel as controls. Histological analysis revealed time-dependent intense hepatocellular fatty degeneration and increased hepatic triglycerides in PXR-humanized mice and not in wild-type and Pxr-null mice. After long-term treatment, PXR target genes were induced in small intestine and liver, with significant up-regulation in the expression of hepatic genes related to triglyceride synthesis and lipid accumulation. However, no significant hepatic accumulation of rifaximin was found, even after 6 months of treatment, in PXR-humanized mice. Genes in the small intestine that are involved in the uptake of fatty acids and triglycerides were induced along with increased triglyceride accumulation in intestinal epithelial cells of PXR-humanized mice; this was not observed in wild-type and Pxr-null mice. These findings suggest that long-term administration of rifaximin could lead to PXR-dependent hepatocellular fatty degeneration as a result of activation of genes involved in lipid uptake, thus indicating a potential adverse effect of rifaximin on liver function after long-term exposure. PMID:22790967

Induction of Nrf2-mediated cellular defenses and alteration of phase I activities as mechanisms of chemoprotective effects of coffee in the liver.

PubMed

Cavin, C; Marin-Kuan, M; Langouët, S; Bezençon, C; Guignard, G; Verguet, C; Piguet, D; Holzhäuser, D; Cornaz, R; Schilter, B

2008-04-01

Coffee consumption has been associated with a significant decrease in the risk of developing chronic diseases such as Parkinson disease, diabetes type-2 and several types of cancers (e.g. colon, liver). In the present study, a coffee-dependent induction of enzymes involved in xenobiotic detoxification processes was observed in rat liver and primary hepatocytes. In addition, coffee was found to induce the mRNA and protein expression of enzymes involved in cellular antioxidant defenses. These inductions were correlated with the activation of the Nrf2 transcription factor as shown using an ARE-reporter luciferase assay. The induction of detoxifying enzymes GSTs and AKR is compatible with a protection against both genotoxicity and cytotoxicity of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1). This hypothesis was confirmed in in vitro and ex vivo test systems, where coffee reduced both AFB1-DNA and protein adducts. Interestingly, coffee was also found to inhibit cytochrome CYP1A1/2, indicating that other mechanisms different from a stimulation of detoxification may also play a significant role in the chemoprotective effects of coffee. Further investigations in either human liver cell line and primary hepatocytes indicated that the chemoprotective effects of coffee against AFB1 genotoxicity are likely to be of relevance for humans. These data strongly suggest that coffee may protect against the adverse effects of AFB1. In addition, the coffee-mediated stimulation of the Nrf2-ARE pathway resulting in increased endogenous defense mechanisms against electrophilic but also oxidative insults further support that coffee may be associated with a protection against various types of chemical stresses.

Fruit Self-Thinning: A Trait to Consider for Genetic Improvement of Apple Tree

PubMed Central

Celton, Jean-Marc; Kelner, Jean-Jacques; Martinez, Sébastien; Bechti, Abdel; Khelifi Touhami, Amina; James, Marie José; Durel, Charles-Eric; Laurens, François; Costes, Evelyne

2014-01-01

In apple (Malus×domestica Borkh), as in many fruiting crops, fruit maintenance vs abscission is a major criteria for production profitability. Growers routinely make use of chemical thinning agents to control total fruit load. However, serious threats for the environment lead to the demand for new apple cultivars with self-thinning properties. In this project, we studied the genetic determinism of this trait using a F1 progeny derived from the cross between the hybrid INRA X3263, assumed to possess the self-thinning trait, and the cultivar ‘Belrène’. Both counting and percentage variables were considered to capture the fruiting behaviour on different shoot types and over three consecutive years. Besides low to moderate but significant genetic effects, mixed models showed considerable effects of the year and the shoot type, as well as an interaction effect. Year effect resulted mainly from biennial fruiting. Eight Quantitative Trait Locus (QTL) were detected on several linkage groups (LG), either independent or specific of the year of observation or the shoot type. The QTL with highest LOD value was located on the top third of LG10. The screening of three QTL zones for candidate genes revealed a list of transcription factors and genes involved in fruit nutrition, xylem differentiation, plant responses to starvation and organ abscission that open new avenues for further molecular investigations. The detailed phenotyping performed revealed the dependency between the self-thinning trait and the fruiting status of the trees. Despite a moderate genetic control of the self-thinning trait, QTL and candidate genes were identified which will need further analyses involving other progenies and molecular investigations. PMID:24625529

Do sleep disorders and associated treatments impact glucose metabolism?

PubMed

Punjabi, Naresh M

2009-01-01

Over the past decade substantial evidence has accumulated implicating disorders of sleep in the pathogenesis of various metabolic abnormalities. This review, which is based on workshop discussions that took place at the 6th annual meeting of the International Sleep Disorders Forum: The Art of Good Sleep 2008 and a systematic literature search, provides a critical analysis of the available evidence implicating sleep disorders such as obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA), insomnia, short or long-term sleep duration and restless legs syndrome as potential risk factors for insulin resistance, glucose intolerance, type 2 diabetes mellitus and the metabolic syndrome. The review also highlights the evidence on whether treatment of specific sleep disorders can decrease metabolic risk. In total, 83 published reports were selected for inclusion. Although several studies show clear associations between sleep disorders and altered glucose metabolism, causal effects and the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms involved have not been fully elucidated. OSA appears to have the strongest association with insulin resistance, glucose intolerance, type 2 diabetes and the metabolic syndrome. There are, however, limited data supporting the hypothesis that effective treatment of sleep disorders, including OSA, has a favourable effect on glucose metabolism. Large randomized trials are thus required to address whether improvement of sleep quality and quantity can curtail excess metabolic risk. Research is also required to elucidate the mechanisms involved and to determine whether the effects of treatment for sleep disorders on glucose metabolism are dependent on the specific patient factors, the type of disorder and the duration of metabolic dysfunction. In conclusion, there is limited evidence on whether sleep disorders alter glucose metabolism and whether treatment can reduce the excess metabolic risk.

Basic pharmacology of NMDA receptors.

PubMed

Gonda, Xenia

2012-01-01

NMDA receptors are ionotropic receptors mediating glutamatergic neurotransmission and play a role in several basic functions in the central nervous system, from regulating neurodevelopment and synaptic plasticity, learning and memory formation, cognitive processes, rhythm generation necessary for locomotor activity and breathing, and excitotoxicity. Due to their complex involvement in the above processes, NMDA receptors have been established to play a role in the etiopathology of several neuropsychiatric disorders such as ischaemia and traumatic brain injury, neurodegenerative disorders, pain syndromes, addiction, affective disorders and such neurodevelopmental disorders as autism or schizophrenia. NMDA receptors contain multiple types of subunits with distinct functional and pharmacological properties making the picture more complex. These receptors also offer multiple binding sites to be targeted with pharmacons, however, early broad-spectrum NMDA receptor antagonists had limited clinical use due to their intolerable adverse effect profile. The discovery of several types of subunit selective NMDA receptor antagonists may offer valuable therapeutic possibilities for several disorders, with improved clinical efficacy and decreased side effects. However, in spite of our increasing knowledge concerning the involvement of NMDA receptors in pathological processes, molecules with a selective action, tolerable side effect profile and good clinical efficacy are still only in clinical development in the majority of cases. Nevertheless, NMDA receptors offer a novel opportunity in the treatment of various neuropsychiatric conditions.

Variation in Baiting Intensity Among CO2-Baited Traps Used to Collect Hematophagous Arthropods

PubMed Central

Springer, Yuri P.; Taylor, Jeffrey R.; Travers, Patrick D.

2015-01-01

Hematophagous arthropods transmit the etiological agents of numerous diseases and as a result are frequently the targets of sampling to characterize vector and pathogen populations. Arguably, the most commonly used sampling approach involves traps baited with carbon dioxide. We report results of a laboratory study in which the performance of carbon dioxide-baited traps was evaluated using measures of baiting intensity, the amount of carbon dioxide released per unit time during trap deployment. We evaluated the effects of trap design, carbon dioxide source, and wind speed on baiting intensity and documented significant effects of these factors on the length of sampling (time to baiting intensity = 0), maximum baiting intensity, and variation in baiting intensity during experimental trials. Among the three dry ice-baited trap types evaluated, traps utilizing insulated beverage coolers as dry ice containers sampled for the longest period of time, had the lowest maximum but most consistent baiting intensity within trials and were least sensitive to effects of wind speed and dry ice form (block vs. pellet) on baiting intensity. Results of trials involving traps baited with carbon dioxide released from pressurized cylinders suggested that this trap type had performance comparable to dry ice-baited insulated cooler traps but at considerably higher cost. PMID:26160803

The effects of obesity on balance recovery using an ankle strategy.

PubMed

Matrangola, Sara L; Madigan, Michael L

2011-06-01

Obesity is associated with an increased risk of falls. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of obesity on balance recovery using an ankle strategy. In addition, computer simulations to understand how increased inertia and weight associated with obesity independently influence balance recovery. Ten normal weight (BMI: 22.7±0.6 kg/m(2)) and ten obese (BMI: 32.2±2.2 kg/m(2)) adult male subjects participated in the study. Subjects recovered balance using an ankle strategy after three types of postural perturbations: an initial angular displacement, an initial angular velocity from the natural stance, and an initial angular velocity from a prescribed position. Balance recovery was quantified by the largest initial angular displacement or angular velocity from which balance could be recovered. Obesity impaired balance recovery from perturbations involving an initial angular velocity, but not from an initial angular displacement. Similarly, computer simulations determined that increased inertia is beneficial to balance recovery when there is little to no initial angular velocity. These findings indicate that the effects of obesity on balance recovery are dependent on the type of perturbation, and that increased inertia associated with obesity can be beneficial for perturbations that involve little to no initial angular velocity. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Participant Experiences of Talking Circles on Type 2 Diabetes in Two Northern Plains American Indian Tribes

PubMed Central

Struthers, Roxanne; Hodge, Felicia Schanche; Geishirt-Cantrell, Betty; De Cora, Lorelei

2011-01-01

The Talking Circle, a culturally appropriate, 12-week educational intervention, was employed on two Northern Plains American Indian reservations to provide information on type 2 diabetes. In a phenomenological study, funded as a minority supplement to the Talking Circle intervention, the authors asked 8 American Indian participants of the Talking Circle to describe their experience of being an American Indian Talking Circle participant. Seven common themes describe the phenomenon of participating in a Talking Circle diabetic intervention. The Talking Circle technique was effective in providing information on type 2 diabetes through culturally appropriate community sharing. Type 2 diabetes is viewed by both outsiders and those involved as a chronic disease of the utmost concern in American Indian communities. PMID:14556421

Producing more persuasive antiviolence messages for college students: testing the effects of framing, information sources, and positive/negative fact appeal.

PubMed

Yu, Hyunjae Jay

2012-06-01

College students, between the ages of about 18 and 24, are the group of people who are most often exposed to situations involving diverse types of violence. They have greater access to alcohol and drugs and are under far less parental supervision than younger age groups; reports have shown that frequent involvement in several types of violent behaviors can seriously damage college students physically and psychologically. However, despite the high rate of violence among college students, there has not been enough discussion about how we can produce more effective antiviolence messages targeting college students. This research provides some useful insights into this issue by testing the possible effects of three antiviolence message conditions: gain/loss framing, different information sources, and negative/positive fact appeal. The results reveal that college students in this study find more appeal in antiviolence messages conveyed by a traditional public service announcement (PSA) than in a TV news report. The results also reveal that people pay more attention to messages that use negative fact appeal (e.g., "There are many people losing a lot of precious things because of their violent behaviors") than to those that use positive fact appeal (e.g., "There are many people gaining a lot of precious things by avoiding violent behaviors"). An interaction effect between information sources and positive/negative fact appeal was also detected.

Proliferation of smooth muscle cells stimulated by Porphyromonas gingivalis is inhibited by apple polyphenol.

PubMed

Inaba, Hiroaki; Tagashira, Motoyuki; Kanda, Tomomasa; Amano, Atsuo

2011-11-01

Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg) is thought to be involved in the progression of occlusive arterial lesions, whereas vascular smooth muscle cell (SMC) proliferation is considered to be involved in occlusive arterial disease. We previously showed that bacteremia caused by Pg infection induced proliferation of mouse aortic SMCs. Furthermore, human SMCs stimulated with human plasma incubated with Pg showed a marked transformation from the contractile to proliferative phenotype. In the present study, we examine the involvement of Pg gingipains and fimbriae in induction of the SMC transformation and proliferation, and effective inhibitors. Pg strains including gingipain- and fimbria-null mutants were incubated in human plasma, after which the bacteria were removed and the supernatants were added to cultured SMCs. To evaluate the effects of inhibitors, Pg organisms were incubated in plasma in the presence of apple polyphenol (AP), epigallocatechin gallate, KYT-1 (Arg-gingipain inhibitor), and KYT-36 (Lys-gingipain inhibitor). Plasma supernatants from wild-type and fimbria-mutant cultures markedly stimulated cellular proliferation, whereas those containing gingipain-null mutants showed negligible effects. SMC proliferation was also induced by plasma treated with trypsin. Furthermore, plasma supernatants cultured in the presence of KYT-1/KYT-36 and AP showed significant inhibitory effects on SMC proliferation, whereas cultures with epigallocatechin gallate did not. Our results suggest that Pg gingipains are involved in the induction of SMC transformation and proliferation, whereas this was inhibited by AP.

Spatial variation and density-dependent dispersal in competitive coexistence.

PubMed Central

Amarasekare, Priyanga

2004-01-01

It is well known that dispersal from localities favourable to a species' growth and reproduction (sources) can prevent competitive exclusion in unfavourable localities (sinks). What is perhaps less well known is that too much emigration can undermine the viability of sources and cause regional competitive exclusion. Here, I investigate two biological mechanisms that reduce the cost of dispersal to source communities. The first involves increasing the spatial variation in the strength of competition such that sources can withstand high rates of emigration; the second involves reducing emigration from sources via density-dependent dispersal. I compare how different forms of spatial variation and modes of dispersal influence source viability, and hence source-sink coexistence, under dominance and pre-emptive competition. A key finding is that, while spatial variation substantially reduces dispersal costs under both types of competition, density-dependent dispersal does so only under dominance competition. For instance, when spatial variation in the strength of competition is high, coexistence is possible (regardless of the type of competition) even when sources experience high emigration rates; when spatial variation is low, coexistence is restricted even under low emigration rates. Under dominance competition, density-dependent dispersal has a strong effect on coexistence. For instance, when the emigration rate increases with density at an accelerating rate (Type III density-dependent dispersal), coexistence is possible even when spatial variation is quite low; when the emigration rate increases with density at a decelerating rate (Type II density-dependent dispersal), coexistence is restricted even when spatial variation is quite high. Under pre-emptive competition, density-dependent dispersal has only a marginal effect on coexistence. Thus, the diversity-reducing effects of high dispersal rates persist under pre-emptive competition even when dispersal is density dependent, but can be significantly mitigated under dominance competition if density-dependent dispersal is Type III rather than Type II. These results lead to testable predictions about source-sink coexistence under different regimes of competition, spatial variation and dispersal. They identify situations in which density-independent dispersal provides a reasonable approximation to species' dispersal patterns, and those under which consideration of density-dependent dispersal is crucial to predicting long-term coexistence. PMID:15306322

Enterovirus strain and type-specific differences in growth kinetics and virus-induced cell destruction in human pancreatic duct epithelial HPDE cells.

PubMed

Smura, Teemu; Natri, Olli; Ylipaasto, Petri; Hellman, Marika; Al-Hello, Haider; Piemonti, Lorenzo; Roivainen, Merja

2015-12-02

Enterovirus infections have been suspected to be involved in the development of type 1 diabetes. However, the pathogenetic mechanism of enterovirus-induced type 1 diabetes is not known. Pancreatic ductal cells are closely associated with pancreatic islets. Therefore, enterovirus infections in ductal cells may also affect beta-cells and be involved in the induction of type 1 diabetes. The aim of this study was to assess the ability of different enterovirus strains to infect, replicate and produce cytopathic effect in human pancreatic ductal cells. Furthermore, the viral factors that affect these capabilities were studied. The pancreatic ductal cells were highly susceptible to enterovirus infections. Both viral growth and cytolysis were detected for several enterovirus serotypes. However, the viral growth and capability to induce cytopathic effect (cpe) did not correlate completely. Some of the virus strains replicated in ductal cells without apparent cpe. Furthermore, there were strain-specific differences in the growth kinetics and the ability to cause cpe within some serotypes. Viral adaptation experiments were carried out to study the potential genetic determinants behind these phenotypic differences. The blind-passage of non-lytic CV-B6-Schmitt strain in HPDE-cells resulted in lytic phenotype and increased progeny production. This was associated with the substitution of a single amino acid (K257E) in the virus capsid protein VP1 and the viral ability to use decay accelerating factor (DAF) as a receptor. This study demonstrates considerable plasticity in the cell tropism, receptor usage and cytolytic properties of enteroviruses and underlines the strong effect of single or few amino acid substitutions in cell tropism and lytic capabilities of a given enterovirus. Since ductal cells are anatomically close to pancreatic islets, the capability of enteroviruses to infect and destroy pancreatic ductal cells may also implicate in respect to enterovirus induced type 1 diabetes. In addition, the capability for rapid adaptation to different cell types suggests that, on occasion, enterovirus strains with different pathogenetic properties may arise from less pathogenic ancestors. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Macrophage involvement affects matrix stiffness-related influences on cell osteogenesis under three-dimensional culture conditions.

PubMed

He, Xiao-Tao; Wu, Rui-Xin; Xu, Xin-Yue; Wang, Jia; Yin, Yuan; Chen, Fa-Ming

2018-04-15

Accumulating evidence indicates that the physicochemical properties of biomaterials exert profound influences on stem cell fate decisions. However, matrix-based regulation selected through in vitro analyses based on a given cell population do not genuinely reflect the in vivo conditions, in which multiple cell types are involved and interact dynamically. This study constitutes the first investigation of how macrophages (Mφs) in stiffness-tunable transglutaminase cross-linked gelatin (TG-gel) affect the osteogenesis of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMMSCs). When a single cell type was cultured, low-stiffness TG-gels promoted BMMSC proliferation, whereas high-stiffness TG-gels supported cell osteogenic differentiation. However, Mφs in high-stiffness TG-gels were more likely to polarize toward the pro-inflammatory M1 phenotype. Using either conditioned medium (CM)-based incubation or Transwell-based co-culture, we found that Mφs encapsulated in the low-stiffness matrix exerted a positive effect on the osteogenesis of co-cultured BMMSCs. Conversely, Mφs in high-stiffness TG-gels negatively affected cell osteogenic differentiation. When both cell types were cultured in the same TG-gel type and placed into the Transwell system, the stiffness-related influences of Mφs on BMMSCs were significantly altered; both the low- and high-stiffness matrix induced similar levels of BMMSC osteogenesis. Although the best material parameter for synergistically affecting Mφs and BMMSCs remains unknown, our data suggest that Mφ involvement in the co-culture system alters previously identified material-related influences on BMMSCs, such as matrix stiffness-related effects, which were identified based on a culture system involving a single cell type. Such Mφ-stem cell interactions should be considered when establishing proper matrix parameter-associated cell regulation in the development of biomimetic biomaterials for regenerative applications. The substrate stiffness of a scaffold plays critical roles in modulating both reparative cells, such as mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), and immune cells, such as macrophages (Mφs). Although the influences of material stiffness on either Mφs or MSCs, have been extensively described, how the two cell types respond to matrix cues to dynamically affect each other in a three-dimensional (3D) biosystem remains largely unknown. Here, we report our findings that, in a platform wherein Mφs and bone marrow-derived MSCs coexist, matrix stiffness can influence stem cell fate through both direct matrix-associated regulation and indirect Mφ-based modulation. Our data support future studies of the MSC-Mφ-matrix interplay in the 3D context to optimize matrix parameters for the development of the next biomaterial. Copyright © 2018 Acta Materialia Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Do behavioural health intentions engender health behaviour change? A study on the moderating role of self-affirmation on actual fruit intake versus vegetable intake.

PubMed

Pietersma, Suzanne; Dijkstra, Arie

2011-11-01

The purpose of this persuasion research was to show that self-affirmation (SA) increases intentions in the advocated direction and that these intentions predict actual health behaviour change. That is, these intentions not only serve the function of short-term relief of the threat caused by the persuasive message. We proposed that the effect of SA depends on the level of value-involvement. Participants were randomly assigned to one of two conditions (no SA vs. SA) of a between-subjects design. After the SA manipulation, all participants read a threatening health text about the consequences of insufficient fruit and vegetable intake. At pre-test, value-involvement was determined. Participants included were undergraduate students. The SA manipulation consisted of a writing exercise. After reading the health message, participants reported their intention to eat sufficient fruit and vegetables (N= 537). After 1 week (N= 293) and 4 weeks (N= 261), participants completed self-reports of fruit and vegetable intake. No main effect was found for SA on any outcome measure. We did find that involvement moderated the effect of SA on cooked vegetables consumption. This effect was not present for raw vegetables/salad consumption or for fruit consumption. The moderated effect on cooked vegetable consumption was most evident after 1 week and the effect was mediated by the immediate intentions of participants. SA can lead to genuine intentions that predict actual behaviour, but the effect of SA depends on the type of behaviour and people's value-involvement. ©2011 The British Psychological Society.

Involvement of PPAR-γ in the neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects of angiotensin type 1 receptor inhibition: effects of the receptor antagonist telmisartan and receptor deletion in a mouse MPTP model of Parkinson's disease.

PubMed

Garrido-Gil, Pablo; Joglar, Belen; Rodriguez-Perez, Ana I; Guerra, Maria J; Labandeira-Garcia, Jose L

2012-02-22

Several recent studies have shown that angiotensin type 1 receptor (AT1) antagonists such as candesartan inhibit the microglial inflammatory response and dopaminergic cell loss in animal models of Parkinson's disease. However, the mechanisms involved in the neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects of AT1 blockers in the brain have not been clarified. A number of studies have reported that AT1 blockers activate peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR γ). PPAR-γ activation inhibits inflammation, and may be responsible for neuroprotective effects, independently of AT1 blocking actions. We have investigated whether oral treatment with telmisartan (the most potent PPAR-γ activator among AT1 blockers) provides neuroprotection against dopaminergic cell death and neuroinflammation, and the possible role of PPAR-γ activation in any such neuroprotection. We used a mouse model of parkinsonism induced by the dopaminergic neurotoxin 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) and co-administration of the PPAR-γ antagonist GW9662 to study the role of PPAR-γ activation. In addition, we used AT1a-null mice lesioned with MPTP to study whether deletion of AT1 in the absence of any pharmacological effect of AT1 blockers provides neuroprotection, and investigated whether PPAR-γ activation may also be involved in any such effect of AT1 deletion by co-administration of the PPAR-γ antagonist GW9662. We observed that telmisartan protects mouse dopaminergic neurons and inhibits the microglial response induced by administration of MPTP. The protective effects of telmisartan on dopaminergic cell death and microglial activation were inhibited by co-administration of GW9662. Dopaminergic cell death and microglial activation were significantly lower in AT1a-null mice treated with MPTP than in mice not subjected to AT1a deletion. Interestingly, the protective effects of AT1 deletion were also inhibited by co-administration of GW9662. The results suggest that telmisartan provides effective neuroprotection against dopaminergic cell death and that the neuroprotective effect is mediated by PPAR-γ activation. However, the results in AT1-deficient mice show that blockage of AT1, unrelated to the pharmacological properties of AT1 blockers, also protects against dopaminergic cell death and neuroinflammation. Furthermore, the results show that PPAR-γ activation is involved in the anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects of AT1 deletion.

Aortic Branch Artery Pseudoaneurysms Associated with Intramural Hematoma: When and How to Do Endovascular Embolization

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

Ferro, Carlo; Rossi, Umberto G., E-mail: urossi76@hotmail.com; Seitun, Sara

To describe when and how to perform endovascular embolization of aortic branch artery pseudoaneurysms associated with type A and type B intramural hematoma (IMH) involving the descending thoracic and abdominal aorta (DeBakey I and III) that increased significantly in size during follow-up. Sixty-one patients (39 men; mean {+-} standard deviation age 66.1 {+-} 11.2 years) with acute IMH undergoing at least two multidetector computed tomographic examinations during follow-up for 12 months or longer were enrolled. Overall, 48 patients (31 men, age 65.9 {+-} 11.5) had type A and type B IMH involving the descending thoracic and abdominal aorta (DeBakey Imore » and III). Among the 48 patients, 26 (54 %; 17 men, aged 64.3 {+-} 11.4 years) had 71 aortic branch artery pseudoaneurysms. Overall, during a mean follow-up of 22.1 {+-} 9.5 months (range 12-42 months), 31 (44 %) pseudoaneurysms disappeared; 22 (31 %) decreased in size; two (3 %) remained stable; and 16 (22 %) increased in size. Among the 16 pseudoaneurysms with increasing size, five of these (three intercostal arteries, one combined intercostobronchial/intercostal arteries, one renal artery), present in five symptomatic patients, had a significant increase in size (thickness >10 mm; width and length >20 mm). These five patients underwent endovascular embolization with coils and/or Amplatzer Vascular Plug. In all patients, complete thrombosis and exclusion of aortic pseudoaneurysm and relief of back pain were achieved. Aortic branch artery pseudoaneurysms associated with type A and type B IMH involving the descending thoracic and abdominal aorta (DeBakey I and III) may be considered relatively benign lesions. However, a small number may grow in size or extend longitudinally with clinical symptoms during follow-up, and in these cases, endovascular embolization can be an effective and safe procedure.« less

The Relationship Between True Colors Temperament Types of Primary Caregivers and Literacy Development: An Exploratory Analysis.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Calahan, Charles A.

1996-01-01

Examines the relationship between the "True Colors" temperament type of the primary caregiver and the readiness to involve her child in the social context of extracurricular reading activities (a summer reading program) intended to promote literacy development. Finds that the "Gold" and "Blue" types involved their children in organized, structured…

25 CFR 1000.463 - What types of personal conflicts of interest involving tribal officers, employees or...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 25 Indians 2 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false What types of personal conflicts of interest involving...-DETERMINATION AND EDUCATION ACT Conflicts of Interest § 1000.463 What types of personal conflicts of interest... financial or employment interest that conflicts with that of the trust beneficiary, whether the tribe...

Type A and type B botulism in the North: first reported cases due to toxin other than type E in Alaskan Inuit.

PubMed Central

Barrett, D. H.; Eisenberg, M. S.; Bender, T. R.; Burks, J. M.; Hatheway, C. L.; Dowell, V. R.

1977-01-01

Botulism outbreaks shown to be due to type A and type B toxin occurred in Alaska, a region previously known for only type E botulism. The outbreak due to type A toxin involved three people, two of whom died. The outbreak due to type B toxin involved nine people, none of whom died. Both outbreaks were in Inuit villages, and native foods were incriminated. The occurrence of these outbreaks strongly suggests that Clostridium botulinum, types A and B are indigenous to Alaska. The outbreaks underscore the need for initial treatment of patients with antitoxin that is trivalent (ABE), even in Arctic regions. PMID:332309

Antiproliferative and Apoptotic Effect of Dendrosomal Curcumin Nanoformulation in P53 Mutant and Wide-Type Cancer Cell Lines.

PubMed

Montazeri, Maryam; Pilehvar-Soltanahmadi, Younes; Mohaghegh, Mina; Panahi, Alireza; Khodi, Samaneh; Zarghami, Nosratollah; Sadeghizadeh, Majid

2017-01-01

The aim of this paper is to investigate the effect of dendrosomal curcumin (DNC) on the expression of p53 in both p53 mutant cell lines SKBR3/SW480 and p53 wild-type MCF7/HCT116 in both RNA and protein levels. Curcumin, derived from Curcumin longa, is recently considered in cancer related researches for its cell growth inhibition properties. p53 is a common tumor-suppressor gene involved in cancers and its mutation not only inhibits tumor suppressor activity but also promotes oncogenic activity. Here, p53 mutant/Wild-type cells were employed to study the toxicity of DNC using MTT assay, Flow cytometry and Annexin-V, Real-time PCR and Western blot were used to analyze p53, BAX, Bcl-2, p21 and Noxa changes after treatment. During the time, DNC increased the SubG1 cells and decreased G1, S and G2/M cells, early apoptosis also indicated the inhibition of cell growth in early phase. Real-Time PCR assay showed an increased mRNA of BAX, Noxa and p21 during the time with decreased Bcl-2. The expression of p53 mutant decreased in SKBR3/SW480, and the expression of p53 wild-type increased in MCF7/HCT116. Consequently, p53 plays an important role in mediating the survival by DNC, which can prevent tumor cell growth by modulating the expression of genes involved in apoptosis and proliferation. Copyright© Bentham Science Publishers; For any queries, please email at epub@benthamscience.org.

The Effects of Student and Text Characteristics on the Oral Reading Fluency of Middle-Grade Students

PubMed Central

Barth, Amy E.; Tolar, Tammy D.; Fletcher, Jack M.; Francis, David

2014-01-01

We evaluated the effects of student characteristics (sight word reading efficiency, phonological decoding, verbal knowledge, level of reading ability, grade, gender) and text features (passage difficulty, length, genre, and language and discourse attributes) on the oral reading fluency of a sample of middle-school students in Grades 6–8 (N = 1,794). Students who were struggling (n = 704) and typically developing readers (n = 1,028) were randomly assigned to read five 1-min passages from each of 5 Lexile bands (within student range of 550 Lexiles). A series of multilevel analyses showed that student and text characteristics contributed uniquely to oral reading fluency rates. Student characteristics involving sight word reading efficiency and level of decoding ability accounted for more variability than reader type and verbal knowledge, with small, but statistically significant effects of grade and gender. The most significant text feature was passage difficulty level. Interactions involving student text characteristics, especially attributes involving overall ability level and difficulty of the text, were also apparent. These results support views of the development of oral reading fluency that involve interactions of student and text characteristics and highlight the importance of scaling for passage difficulty level in assessing individual differences in oral reading fluency. PMID:24567659

Analysis of Associations between Behavioral Traits and Four Types of Aggression in Shiba Inu

PubMed Central

KANEKO, Fumihiro; ARATA, Sayaka; TAKEUCHI, Yukari; MORI, Yuji

2013-01-01

ABSTRACT Canine aggression is one of the behavioral problems for which veterinary behaviorists are most frequently consulted. Despite this, the classification of canine aggression is controversial, and there are several classification methodologies. While the etiology of canine aggression differs among the types of aggression, the behavioral background underlying aggression is not well understood. Behavior trait-based evaluation of canine aggression would improve the effectiveness and efficiency of managing canine aggression problems. We developed a questionnaire addressing 14 behavioral items and items related to four types of canine aggression (owner-, child-, stranger- and dog-directed aggression) in order to examine the associations between behavioral traits and aggression in Shiba Inu. A total of 400 Shiba Inu owners recruited through dog events (n=134) and veterinary hospitals (n=266) completed the questionnaire. Factor analysis sorted the behavioral items from both the event and clinic samples into four factors: “sociability with humans,” “reactivity to stimuli,” “chase proneness” and “fear of sounds.” While “reactivity to stimuli” correlated significantly positively with all of the four types of aggression (P=0.007 to <0.001), “sociability with humans” correlated significantly negatively with child- and stranger-directed aggression (P<0.001). These results suggest that the behavioral traits involved in canine aggression differ among the types of aggression and that specific behavioral traits are frequently simultaneously involved in several types of aggression. PMID:23719752

Deep lateral wall orbital decompression following strabismus surgery in patients with Type II ophthalmic Graves' disease.

PubMed

Ellis, Michael P; Broxterman, Emily C; Hromas, Alan R; Whittaker, Thomas J; Sokol, Jason A

2018-01-10

Surgical management of ophthalmic Graves' disease traditionally involves, in order, orbital decompression, followed by strabismus surgery and eyelid surgery. Nunery et al. previously described two distinct sub-types of patients with ophthalmic Graves' disease; Type I patients exhibit no restrictive myopathy (no diplopia) as opposed to Type II patients who do exhibit restrictive myopathy (diplopia) and are far more likely to develop new-onset worsening diplopia following medial wall and floor decompression. Strabismus surgery involving extra-ocular muscle recession has, in turn, been shown to potentially worsen proptosis. Our experience with Type II patients who have already undergone medial wall and floor decompression and strabismus surgery found, when additional decompression is necessary, deep lateral wall decompression (DLWD) appears to have a low rate of post-operative primary-gaze diplopia. A case series of four Type II ophthalmic Graves' disease patients, all of whom had already undergone decompression and strabismus surgery, and went on to develop worsening proptosis or optic nerve compression necessitating further decompression thereafter. In all cases, patients were treated with DLWD. Institutional Review Board approval was granted by the University of Kansas. None of the four patients treated with this approach developed recurrent primary-gaze diplopia or required strabismus surgery following DLWD. While we still prefer to perform medial wall and floor decompression as the initial treatment for ophthalmic Graves' disease, for proptosis following consecutive strabismus surgery, DLWD appears to be effective with a low rate of recurrent primary-gaze diplopia.

Effects provoked by chronic undernourishment on the fibre type composition and contractility of fast muscles in male and female developing rats.

PubMed

Pereyra-Venegas, J; Segura-Alegría, B; Guadarrama-Olmos, J C; Mariscal-Tovar, S; Quiróz-González, S; Jiménez-Estrada, I

2015-10-01

In this study, we compare the effects of pre- and post-natal food deprivation on the relative proportion of fibre types and contractile responses in the extensor digitorum longus (EDL) muscle of female and male rats at different post-natal ages. EDL muscles from undernourished male (UM) rats showed a higher proportion of Type IIB than IIA fibres and larger normalized twitch responses (with respect to muscle weight) than those of controls (CM). In contrast, EDL muscles from control (CF) and undernourished female rats (UF) showed no significant differences in their fibre type composition and normalized twitch forces at most of the ages analysed. Our data are indicative that the EDL muscles from undernourished males are more susceptible to the effects exerted by low food income than the EDL muscles from female rats. It is proposed that changes in the reactive oxygen species (ROS) concentration and hormonal factors, due to undernutrition, are involved in the alterations observed in the fibre type composition and force production of EDL muscles in undernourished male rats and that estrogens may have an antioxidant protective role on the undernourished EDL muscles in female rats. Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition © 2014 Blackwell Verlag GmbH.

Putative Epigenetic Involvement of the Endocannabinoid System in Anxiety- and Depression-Related Behaviors Caused by Nicotine as a Stressor.

PubMed

Hayase, Tamaki

2016-01-01

Like various stressors, the addictive use of nicotine (NC) is associated with emotional symptoms such as anxiety and depression, although the underlying mechanisms have not yet been fully elucidated due to the complicated involvement of target neurotransmitter systems. In the elicitation of these emotional symptoms, the fundamental involvement of epigenetic mechanisms such as histone acetylation has recently been suggested. Furthermore, among the interacting neurotransmitter systems implicated in the effects of NC and stressors, the endocannabinoid (ECB) system is considered to contribute indispensably to anxiety and depression. In the present study, the epigenetic involvement of histone acetylation induced by histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors was investigated in anxiety- and depression-related behavioral alterations caused by NC and/or immobilization stress (IM). Moreover, based on the contributing roles of the ECB system, the interacting influence of ECB ligands on the effects of HDAC inhibitors was evaluated in order to examine epigenetic therapeutic interventions. Anxiety-like (elevated plus-maze test) and depression-like (forced swimming test) behaviors, which were observed in mice treated with repeated (4 days) NC (subcutaneous 0.8 mg/kg) and/or IM (10 min), were blocked by the HDAC inhibitors sodium butyrate (SB) and valproic acid (VA). The cannabinoid type 1 (CB1) agonist ACPA (arachidonylcyclopropylamide; AC) also antagonized these behaviors. Conversely, the CB1 antagonist SR 141716A (SR), which counteracted the effects of AC, attenuated the anxiolytic-like effects of the HDAC inhibitors commonly in the NC and/or IM groups. SR also attenuated the antidepressant-like effects of the HDAC inhibitors, most notably in the IM group. From these results, the combined involvement of histone acetylation and ECB system was shown in anxiety- and depression-related behaviors. In the NC treatment groups, the limited influence of SR against the HDAC inhibitor-induced antidepressant-like effects may reflect the characteristic involvement of histone acetylation within the NC-related neurotransmitter systems other than the ECB system.

Simulating Effects of High Angle of Attack on Turbofan Engine Performance

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Liu, Yuan; Claus, Russell W.; Litt, Jonathan S.; Guo, Ten-Huei

2013-01-01

A method of investigating the effects of high angle of attack (AOA) flight on turbofan engine performance is presented. The methodology involves combining a suite of diverse simulation tools. Three-dimensional, steady-state computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software is used to model the change in performance of a commercial aircraft-type inlet and fan geometry due to various levels of AOA. Parallel compressor theory is then applied to assimilate the CFD data with a zero-dimensional, nonlinear, dynamic turbofan engine model. The combined model shows that high AOA operation degrades fan performance and, thus, negatively impacts compressor stability margins and engine thrust. In addition, the engine response to high AOA conditions is shown to be highly dependent upon the type of control system employed.

The effect of monocular target blur on simulated telerobotic manipulation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Liu, Andrew; Stark, Lawrence

1991-01-01

A simulation involving three types of telerobotic tasks that require information about the spatial position of objects is reported. This is similar to the results of psychophysical experiments examining the effect of blur on stereoacuity. It is suggested that other psychophysical experimental results could be used to predict operator performance for other telerobotic tasks. It is demonstrated that refractive errors in the helmet-mounted stereo display system can affect performance in the three types of telerobotic tasks. The results of two sets of experiments indicate that monocular target blur of two diopters or more degrades stereo display performance to the level of monocular displays. This indicates that moderate levels of visual degradation that affect the operator's stereoacuity may eliminate the performance advantage of stereo displays.

Contributions on the Subject of Longitudinal Movements of Aircraft in Wind Shears. Ph.D. Thesis - Technischen Univ., 1983

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Krauspe, P.

1985-01-01

The effect of downburst-type wind shears on the longitudinal dynamic behavior of an unguided aircraft is simulated numerically on the basis of published meteorological data and the flight characteristics of an A300-B passenger jet. The nonlinear differential equations of the aircraft motion are linearized by conventional methods, and the wind effects are introduced via the linear derivatives of the wind components referred to the wind gradients to obtain simplified technical models of the longitudinal response to all possible types of constant-gradient wind shears during the first 20-60 sec. Graphs, maps, and diagrams are provided, and a number of accidents presumed to have involved wind shears are analyzed in detail.

The effect of electromagnetic radiation of wireless connections on morphology of amniotic fluid

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Novikov, Vsevolod O.; Titova, Natalia; Azarhov, Olexand; Wójcik, Waldemar; GrÄ dz, Å.»aklin; Mussabekova, Assel

2016-09-01

The article considers the effect of wireless networks on the morphology of amniotic fluid (AF) to demonstrate possible risks involving pregnant women. The analysis of AF thesiograms after exposure of the model fluid to Wi-Fi, 3G and β- radiation was chosen as the research method. A comparative analysis of facies structures is carried out, and depth maps of the facies structure are created. This comparative analysis permits an evaluation of the efficiency of morphological changes. It is shown that AF control facies differ in the concentration of areas with a narrow peripheral area and ellipsoidal formations of crystalloids in circumferences center. After exposure of different types of radiation onto AF, the facies structures collapse and form their own conglomerates. The obtained results show that the considered types of radiation have a negative effect on AF.

Perceptions of Teaching Methods for Preclinical Oral Surgery: A Comparison with Learning Styles

PubMed Central

Omar, Esam

2017-01-01

Purpose: Dental extraction is a routine part of clinical dental practice. For this reason, understanding the way how students’ extraction knowledge and skills development are important. Problem Statement and Objectives: To date, there is no accredited statement about the most effective method for the teaching of exodontia to dental students. Students have different abilities and preferences regarding how they learn and process information. This is defined as learning style. In this study, the effectiveness of active learning in the teaching of preclinical oral surgery was examined. The personality type of the groups involved in this study was determined, and the possible effect of personality type on learning style was investigated. Method: This study was undertaken over five years from 2011 to 2015. The sample consisted of 115 students and eight staff members. Questionnaires were submitted by 68 students and all eight staff members involved. Three measures were used in the study: The Index of Learning Styles (Felder and Soloman, 1991), the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI), and the styles of learning typology (Grasha and Hruska-Riechmann). Results and Discussion: Findings indicated that demonstration and minimal clinical exposure give students personal validation. Frequent feedback on their work is strongly indicated to build the cognitive, psychomotor, and interpersonal skills needed from preclinical oral surgery courses. Conclusion: Small group cooperative active learning in the form of demonstration and minimal clinical exposure that gives frequent feedback and students’ personal validation on their work is strongly indicated to build the skills needed for preclinical oral surgery courses. PMID:28357004

Maitotoxin Is a Potential Selective Activator of the Endogenous Transient Receptor Potential Canonical Type 1 Channel in Xenopus laevis Oocytes

PubMed Central

Flores, Pedro L.; Rodríguez, Emma; Zapata, Estrella; Carbó, Roxana; Farías, José María; Martínez, Martín

2017-01-01

Maitotoxin (MTX) is the most potent marine toxin known to date. It is responsible for a particular human intoxication syndrome called ciguatera fish poisoning (CFP). Several reports indicate that MTX is an activator of non-selective cation channels (NSCC) in different cell types. The molecular identity of these channels is still an unresolved topic, and it has been proposed that the transient receptor potential (TRP) channels are involved in this effect. In Xenopus laevis oocytes, MTX at picomolar (pM) concentrations induces the activation of NSCC with functional and pharmacological properties that resemble the activity of TRP channels. The purpose of this study was to characterize the molecular identity of the TRP channel involved in the MTX response, using the small interference RNA (siRNA) approach and the two-electrode voltage-clamp technique (TEVC). The injection of a specifically designed siRNA to silence the transient receptor potential canonical type 1 (TRPC1) protein expression abolished the MTX response. MTX had no effect on oocytes, even at doses 20-fold higher compared to cells without injection. Total mRNA and protein levels of TRPC1 were notably diminished. The TRPC4 siRNA did not change the MTX effect, even though it was important to note that the protein level was reduced by the silencing of TRPC4. Our results suggest that MTX could be a selective activator of TRPC1 channels in X. laevis oocytes and a useful pharmacological tool for further studies on these TRP channels. PMID:28672825

Maitotoxin Is a Potential Selective Activator of the Endogenous Transient Receptor Potential Canonical Type 1 Channel in Xenopus laevis Oocytes.

PubMed

Flores, Pedro L; Rodríguez, Emma; Zapata, Estrella; Carbó, Roxana; Farías, José María; Martínez, Martín

2017-06-25

Maitotoxin (MTX) is the most potent marine toxin known to date. It is responsible for a particular human intoxication syndrome called ciguatera fish poisoning (CFP). Several reports indicate that MTX is an activator of non-selective cation channels (NSCC) in different cell types. The molecular identity of these channels is still an unresolved topic, and it has been proposed that the transient receptor potential (TRP) channels are involved in this effect. In Xenopus laevis oocytes, MTX at picomolar (pM) concentrations induces the activation of NSCC with functional and pharmacological properties that resemble the activity of TRP channels. The purpose of this study was to characterize the molecular identity of the TRP channel involved in the MTX response, using the small interference RNA (siRNA) approach and the two-electrode voltage-clamp technique (TEVC). The injection of a specifically designed siRNA to silence the transient receptor potential canonical type 1 (TRPC1) protein expression abolished the MTX response. MTX had no effect on oocytes, even at doses 20-fold higher compared to cells without injection. Total mRNA and protein levels of TRPC1 were notably diminished. The TRPC4 siRNA did not change the MTX effect, even though it was important to note that the protein level was reduced by the silencing of TRPC4. Our results suggest that MTX could be a selective activator of TRPC1 channels in X. laevis oocytes and a useful pharmacological tool for further studies on these TRP channels.

GPER Signaling in Spermatogenesis and Testicular Tumors.

PubMed

Chimento, Adele; Sirianni, Rosa; Casaburi, Ivan; Pezzi, Vincenzo

2014-01-01

Estrogens play important roles in the regulation of testis development and spermatogenesis. Moreover, several evidences suggest that estrogen signaling can be involved in testicular tumorigenesis. The physiological effects of estrogen are mediated by the classical nuclear estrogen receptors ESR1 and 2, which regulate both genomic and rapid signaling events. In the recent years, a member of the seven-transmembrane G protein-coupled receptor family, GPR30 (GPER), has been identified to promote estrogen action in target cells including testicular cells. Ours and other studies reported that GPER is expressed in normal germ cells (spermatogonia, spermatocytes, spermatids), somatic cells (Sertoli and Leydig cells), and it is also involved in mediating estrogen action during spermatogenesis and testis development. In addition, GPER seems to be involved in modulating estrogen-dependent testicular cancer cell growth. However, in this context, the effects of GPER stimulation on cell survival and proliferation appear to be cell type specific. This review summarizes the current knowledge on the functions regulated by estrogens and mediated by GPER in normal and tumor testicular cells.

GPER Signaling in Spermatogenesis and Testicular Tumors

PubMed Central

Chimento, Adele; Sirianni, Rosa; Casaburi, Ivan; Pezzi, Vincenzo

2014-01-01

Estrogens play important roles in the regulation of testis development and spermatogenesis. Moreover, several evidences suggest that estrogen signaling can be involved in testicular tumorigenesis. The physiological effects of estrogen are mediated by the classical nuclear estrogen receptors ESR1 and 2, which regulate both genomic and rapid signaling events. In the recent years, a member of the seven-transmembrane G protein-coupled receptor family, GPR30 (GPER), has been identified to promote estrogen action in target cells including testicular cells. Ours and other studies reported that GPER is expressed in normal germ cells (spermatogonia, spermatocytes, spermatids), somatic cells (Sertoli and Leydig cells), and it is also involved in mediating estrogen action during spermatogenesis and testis development. In addition, GPER seems to be involved in modulating estrogen-dependent testicular cancer cell growth. However, in this context, the effects of GPER stimulation on cell survival and proliferation appear to be cell type specific. This review summarizes the current knowledge on the functions regulated by estrogens and mediated by GPER in normal and tumor testicular cells. PMID:24639669

Parental Involvement in Cognitive Behavior Therapy for Children with Anxiety Disorders: 3-Year Follow-Up.

PubMed

Walczak, Monika; Esbjørn, Barbara H; Breinholst, Sonja; Reinholdt-Dunne, Marie Louise

2017-06-01

Parental factors have been linked to childhood anxiety, hence, parental involvement in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for anxious children has been examined. However, findings do not consistently show added effects of parent-enhanced CBT, longitudinal investigations are scarce and long-term effects unclear. In the present study, 40 out of 54 families who, 3 years previously, completed one of two types of CBT treatment: with limited or active parental involvement, were assessed using semi-structured diagnostic interviews. Diagnostic status at 3-years follow-up was compared between groups. Changes in diagnostic status across assessment points: posttreatment, 6-month and 3-year follow-up were analyzed within groups. Diagnostic change from 6-month to 3-year follow-up was compared between groups. Intent-to-treat analyses revealed no significant difference in diagnostic status between groups at 3-year follow-up. Nonetheless, children whose parents actively participated in treatment showed significantly more remission from 6-month to 3-year follow-up than children with limited parental participation.

Fiber type conversion alters inactivation of voltage-dependent sodium currents in murine C2C12 skeletal muscle cells.

PubMed

Zebedin, Eva; Sandtner, Walter; Galler, Stefan; Szendroedi, Julia; Just, Herwig; Todt, Hannes; Hilber, Karlheinz

2004-08-01

Each skeletal muscle of the body contains a unique composition of "fast" and "slow" muscle fibers, each of which is specialized for certain challenges. This composition is not static, and the muscle fibers are capable of adapting their molecular composition by altered gene expression (i.e., fiber type conversion). Whereas changes in the expression of contractile proteins and metabolic enzymes in the course of fiber type conversion are well described, little is known about possible adaptations in the electrophysiological properties of skeletal muscle cells. Such adaptations may involve changes in the expression and/or function of ion channels. In this study, we investigated the effects of fast-to-slow fiber type conversion on currents via voltage-gated Na+ channels in the C(2)C(12) murine skeletal muscle cell line. Prolonged treatment of cells with 25 nM of the Ca2+ ionophore A-23187 caused a significant shift in myosin heavy chain isoform expression from the fast toward the slow isoform, indicating fast-to-slow fiber type conversion. Moreover, Na+ current inactivation was significantly altered. Slow inactivation less strongly inhibited the Na+ currents of fast-to-slow fiber type-converted cells. Compared with control cells, the Na+ currents of converted cells were more resistant to block by tetrodotoxin, suggesting enhanced relative expression of the cardiac Na+ channel isoform Na(v)1.5 compared with the skeletal muscle isoform Na(v)1.4. These results imply that fast-to-slow fiber type conversion of skeletal muscle cells involves functional adaptation of their electrophysiological properties.

Leptin receptor deficiency confers resistance to behavioral effects of fluoxetine and desipramine via separable substrates.

PubMed

Guo, M; Lu, X-Y

2014-12-02

Depression is a complex, heterogeneous mental disorder. Currently available antidepressants are only effective in about one-third to one-half of all patients. The mechanisms underlying antidepressant response and treatment resistance are poorly understood. Recent clinical evidence implicates the involvement of leptin in treatment response to antidepressants. In this study, we determined the functional role of the leptin receptor (LepRb) in behavioral responses to the selective serotonergic antidepressant fluoxetine and the noradrenergic antidepressant desipramine. While acute and chronic treatment with fluoxetine or desipramine in wild-type mice elicited antidepressant-like effects in the forced swim test, mice null for LepRb (db/db) displayed resistance to treatment with either fluoxetine or desipramine. Fluoxetine stimulated phosphorylation of Akt(Thr308) and GSK-3β(Ser9) in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex (PFC) of wild-type mice but not in db/db mice. Desipramine failed to induce measurable changes in Akt, GSK-3β or ERK1/2 phosphorylation in the hippocampus and PFC, as well as hypothalamus of either genotype of mice. Deletion of LepRb specifically from hippocampal and cortical neurons resulted in fluoxetine insensitivity in the forced swim test and tail suspension test while leaving the response to desipramine intact. These results suggest that functional LepRb is critically involved in regulating the antidepressant-like behavioral effects of both fluoxetine and desipramine. The antidepressant effects of fluoxetine but not desipramine are dependent on the presence of functional LepRb in the hippocampus and cortex.

Anomalous DC Hall response in noncentrosymmetric tilted Weyl semimetals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mukherjee, S. P.; Carbotte, J. P.

2018-03-01

Weyl nodes come in pairs of opposite chirality. For broken time reversal symmetry (TR) they are displaced in momentum space by {Q} and the anomalous DC Hall conductivity σxy is proportional to {Q} at charge neutrality. For finite doping there are additive corrections to σxy which depend on the chemical potential as well as on the tilt (C ) of the Dirac cones and on their relative orientation. If inversion symmetry (I) is also broken the Weyl nodes are shifted in energy by an amount Q0 . This introduces further changes in σxy and we provide simple analytic formulas for these modifications for both type I (C<1 ) and type II (C>1 , overtilted) Weyl. For type I when the Weyl nodes have equal magnitude but oppositely directed tilts, the correction to σxy is proportional to the chemical potential μ and completely independent of the energy shift Q0 . When instead the tilts are parallel, the correction is linear in Q0 and μ drops out. For type II the corrections involve both μ and Q0 , are nonlinear and also involve a momentum cut off. We discuss the implied changes to the Nernst coefficient and to the thermal Hall effect of a finite Q0 .

The nature and influence of pharmaceutical industry involvement in asthma trials

PubMed Central

Bond, Kenneth; Spooner, Carol; Tjosvold, Lisa; Lemière, Catherine; Rowe, Brian H

2012-01-01

BACKGROUND: Pharmaceutical industry-sponsored research has been shown to be biased toward reporting positive results. Frequent industry participation in trials assessing the efficacy of inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) and long-acting beta2-agonist (LABA) combination treatment makes assessing industry influence difficult and warrants an assessment of specific potential publication bias in this area. OBJECTIVE: To describe the frequency of industry involvement in ICS/LABA trials and explore associations among significant outcomes, type of industry involvement and type of primary outcome. METHODS: A systematic review of trials comparing ICS/LABA combination therapy with ICS monotherapy for asthma was conducted. Data concerning the type of industry sponsorship, primary outcome and statistical results were collected. Comparisons between type of sponsorship and significant results were analyzed using Pearson’s χ2 test and relative risk. RESULTS: Of 91 included studies (median year of publication 2005 [interquartile range 1994 to 2008]), 86 (95%) reported pharmaceutical involvement. Author affiliation was reported in 49 of 86 (57%), and 19 of 86 (22%) were industry-reported trials without full publications. The remainder were published journal articles. Studies with a first or senior author affiliated with industry were 1.5 times more likely to report statistically significant results for the primary outcome compared with studies with other types of industry involvement. Pulmonary measures were 1.5 times more likely to be statistically significant than were measures of asthma control. CONCLUSIONS: The potential biases identified were consistent with other research focused on author role and industry involvement, and suggest that degree of bias may vary with type of affiliation. PMID:22891187

Climate change games as tools for education and engagement

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Jason S.; Lee, Joey J.

2015-05-01

Scientists, educators and policymakers continue to face challenges when it comes to finding effective strategies to engage the public on climate change. We argue that games on the subject of climate change are well-suited to address these challenges because they can serve as effective tools for education and engagement. Recently, there has been a dramatic increase in the development of such games, many featuring innovative designs that blur traditional boundaries (for example, those that involve social media, alternative reality games, or those that involve direct action upon the real world). Here, we present an overview of the types of climate change game currently available, the benefits and trade-offs of their use, and reasons why they hold such promise for education and engagement regarding climate change.

PDE4 and PDE5 regulate cyclic nucleotide contents and relaxing effects on carbachol-induced contraction in the bovine abomasum.

PubMed

Kaneda, Takeharu; Kido, Yuuki; Tajima, Tsuyoshi; Urakawa, Norimoto; Shimizu, Kazumasa

2015-01-01

The effects of various selective phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitors on carbachol (CCh)-induced contraction in the bovine abomasum were investigated. Various selective PDE inhibitors, vinpocetine (type 1), erythro-9-(2-hydroxy-3-nonyl) adenine (EHNA, type 2), milrinone (type 3), Ro20-1724 (type 4), vardenafil (type 5), BRL-50481 (type 7) and BAY73-6691 (type 9), inhibited CCh-induced contractions in a concentration-dependent manner. Among the PDE inhibitors, Ro20-1724 and vardenafil induced more relaxation than the other inhibitors based on the data for the IC50 or maximum relaxation. In smooth muscle of the bovine abomasum, we showed the expression of PDE4B, 4C, 4D and 5 by RT-PCR analysis. In the presence of CCh, Ro20-1724 increased the cAMP content, but not the cGMP content. By contrast, vardenafil increased the cGMP content, but not the cAMP content. These results suggest that Ro20-1724-induced relaxation was correlated with cAMP and that vardenafil-induced relaxation was correlated with cGMP in the bovine abomasum. In conclusion, PDE4 and PDE5 are the enzymes involved in regulation of the relaxation associated with cAMP and cGMP, respectively, in the bovine abomasum.

In silico simulations of experimental protocols for cardiac modeling.

PubMed

Carro, Jesus; Rodriguez, Jose Felix; Pueyo, Esther

2014-01-01

A mathematical model of the AP involves the sum of different transmembrane ionic currents and the balance of intracellular ionic concentrations. To each ionic current corresponds an equation involving several effects. There are a number of model parameters that must be identified using specific experimental protocols in which the effects are considered as independent. However, when the model complexity grows, the interaction between effects becomes increasingly important. Therefore, model parameters identified considering the different effects as independent might be misleading. In this work, a novel methodology consisting in performing in silico simulations of the experimental protocol and then comparing experimental and simulated outcomes is proposed for parameter model identification and validation. The potential of the methodology is demonstrated by validating voltage-dependent L-type calcium current (ICaL) inactivation in recently proposed human ventricular AP models with different formulations. Our results show large differences between ICaL inactivation as calculated from the model equation and ICaL inactivation from the in silico simulations due to the interaction between effects and/or to the experimental protocol. Our results suggest that, when proposing any new model formulation, consistency between such formulation and the corresponding experimental data that is aimed at being reproduced needs to be first verified considering all involved factors.

The Role of Sex of Peers and Gender-Typed Activities in Young Children’s Peer Affiliative Networks: A Longitudinal Analysis of Selection and Influence

PubMed Central

Martin, Carol Lynn; Kornienko, Olga; Schaefer, David R.; Hanish, Laura D.; Fabes, Richard A.; Goble, Priscilla

2012-01-01

A stochastic actor-based model was used to investigate the origins of sex segregation by examining how similarity in sex and time spent in gender-typed activities affected affiliation network selection and how peers influenced children’s (N = 292; M age = 4.3 years) activity involvement. Gender had powerful effects on interactions through direct and indirect pathways. Children selected playmates of the same-sex and with similar levels of gender-typed activities. Selection based on gender-typed activities partially mediated selection based on sex. Children influenced one another’s engagement in gender-typed activities. When mechanisms producing sex segregation were compared, the largest contributor was selection based on sex; less was due to activity-based selection and peer influence. Implications for sex segregation and gender development are discussed. PMID:23252713

Crash sequence based risk matrix for motorcycle crashes.

PubMed

Wu, Kun-Feng; Sasidharan, Lekshmi; Thor, Craig P; Chen, Sheng-Yin

2018-04-05

Considerable research has been conducted related to motorcycle and other powered-two-wheeler (PTW) crashes; however, it always has been controversial among practitioners concerning with types of crashes should be first targeted and how to prioritize resources for the implementation of mitigating actions. Therefore, there is a need to identify types of motorcycle crashes that constitute the greatest safety risk to riders - most frequent and most severe crashes. This pilot study seeks exhibit the efficacy of a new approach for prioritizing PTW crash causation sequences as they relate to injury severity to better inform the application of mitigating countermeasures. To accomplish this, the present study constructed a crash sequence-based risk matrix to identify most frequent and most severe motorcycle crashes in an attempt to better connect causes and countermeasures of PTW crashes. Although the frequency of each crash sequence can be computed from crash data, a crash severity model is needed to compare the levels of crash severity among different crash sequences, while controlling for other factors that also have effects on crash severity such drivers' age, use of helmet, etc. The construction of risk matrix based on crash sequences involve two tasks: formulation of crash sequence and the estimation of a mixed-effects (ME) model to adjust the levels of severities for each crash sequence to account for other crash contributing factors that would have an effect on the maximum level of crash severity in a crash. Three data elements from the National Automotive Sampling System - General Estimating System (NASS-GES) data were utilized to form a crash sequence: critical event, crash types, and sequence of events. A mixed-effects model was constructed to model the severity levels for each crash sequence while accounting for the effects of those crash contributing factors on crash severity. A total of 8039 crashes involving 8208 motorcycles occurred during 2011 and 2013 were included in this study, weighted to represent 338,655 motorcyclists involved in traffic crashes in three years (2011-2013)(NHTSA, 2013). The top five most frequent and severe types of crash sequences were identified, accounting for 23 percent of all the motorcycle crashes included in the study, and they are (1) run-off-road crashes on the right, and hitting roadside objects, (2) cross-median crashes, and rollover, (3) left-turn oncoming crashes, and head-on, (4) crossing over (passing through) or turning into opposite direction at intersections, and (5) side-impacted. In addition to crash sequences, several other factors were also identified to have effects on crash severity: use of helmet, presence of horizontal curves, alcohol consumption, road surface condition, roadway functional class, and nighttime condition. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Involvement of Type 1 Angiontensin II Receptor (AT1) in Cardiovascular Changes Induced by Chronic Emotional Stress: Comparison between Homotypic and Heterotypic Stressors.

PubMed

Costa-Ferreira, Willian; Vieira, Jonas O; Almeida, Jeferson; Gomes-de-Souza, Lucas; Crestani, Carlos C

2016-01-01

Consistent evidence has shown an important role of emotional stress in pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases. Additionally, studies in animal models have demonstrated that daily exposure to different stressor (heterotypic stressor) evokes more severe changes than those resulting from repeated exposure to the same aversive stimulus (homotypic stressor), possibly due to the habituation process upon repeated exposure to the same stressor. Despite these pieces of evidence, the mechanisms involved in the stress-evoked cardiovascular dysfunction are poorly understood. Therefore, the present study investigated the involvement of angiotensin II (Ang II) acting on the type 1 Ang II receptor (AT1) in the cardiovascular dysfunctions evoked by both homotypic and heterotypic chronic emotional stresses in rats. For this purpose, we compared the effect of the chronic treatment with the AT1 receptor antagonist losartan (30 mg/kg/day, p.o.) on the cardiovascular and autonomic changes evoked by the heterotypic stressor chronic variable stress (CVS) and the homotypic stressor repeated restraint stress (RRS). RRS increased the sympathetic tone to the heart and decreased the cardiac parasympathetic activity, whereas CVS decreased the cardiac parasympathetic activity. Additionally, both stressors impaired the baroreflex function. Alterations in the autonomic activity and the baroreflex impairment were inhibited by losartan treatment. Additionally, CVS reduced the body weight and increased the circulating corticosterone; however, these effects were not affected by losartan. In conclusion, these findings indicate the involvement of angiotensin II/AT1 receptors in the autonomic changes evoked by both homotypic and heterotypic chronic stressors. Moreover, the present results provide evidence that the increase in the circulating corticosterone and body weight reduction evoked by heterotypic stressors are independent of AT1 receptors.

Yogurt and Diabetes: Overview of Recent Observational Studies.

PubMed

Salas-Salvadó, Jordi; Guasch-Ferré, Marta; Díaz-López, Andrés; Babio, Nancy

2017-07-01

The effects of dairy consumption on the prevention of type 2 diabetes remain controversial and depend on the dairy subtype. Yogurt intake has received special attention because its association with health benefits is more consistent than that of other types of dairy products. In the present article, we review those observational studies that evaluated the association between yogurt consumption and type 2 diabetes. We also discuss the possible mechanisms involved in these associations. We found that 13 prospective studies evaluated the association between yogurt intake and type 2 diabetes, most of which showed an inverse association between the frequency of yogurt consumption and the risk of diabetes. In addition to the scientific evidence accumulated from individual prospective studies, several meta-analyses have shown that yogurt consumption has a potential role in diabetes prevention. The most recent analysis shows a 14% lower risk of type 2 diabetes when yogurt consumption was 80-125 g/d compared with no yogurt consumption. The intake of fermented dairy products, especially yogurt, has been inversely associated with variables of glucose metabolism. Yogurt may have probiotic effects that could modulate glucose metabolism. We conclude that yogurt consumption, in the context of a healthy dietary pattern, may reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes in healthy and older adults at high cardiovascular risk. Large-scale intervention studies and randomized clinical trials are warranted to determine if yogurt consumption has beneficial effects on insulin sensitivity and reduces the risk of type 2 diabetes. © 2017 American Society for Nutrition.

Fathers of children with Down's syndrome versus other types of intellectual disability: perceptions, stress and involvement.

PubMed

Ricci, L A; Hodapp, R M

2003-01-01

The present study examined fathers' perceptions of, stress relating to and involvement with children with Down's syndrome (DS) (n = 30) versus those with other types of intellectual disability (ID) (n = 20). Fathers and mothers completed questionnaires about their children's personalities and maladaptive behaviours, their own parenting stress, and the fathers' level of involvement. Both fathers and mothers rated their children with DS as having more positive personality traits and fewer maladaptive behaviours. Possibly because of these positive perceptions, fathers of children with DS also reported less child-related stress, particularly in the areas of acceptability, adaptability and demandingness. The two groups of fathers were very similarly involved in child rearing. The personality, age and maladaptive behaviours of the children related to stress levels in the fathers of children with DS, while maladaptive behaviours, gender and the fathers' education levels related to stress levels in the fathers of children with other types of ID. These results highlight the importance of examining parental stress and involvement with children with different types of ID.

Involvement of family members in life with type 2 diabetes: Six interconnected problem domains of significance for family health identity and healthcare authenticity

PubMed Central

Grabowski, Dan; Andersen, Tue Helms; Varming, Annemarie; Ommundsen, Christine; Willaing, Ingrid

2017-01-01

Objectives: Family involvement plays a key role in diabetes management. Problems and challenges related to type 2-diabetes often affect the whole family, and relatives are at increased risk of developing diabetes themselves. We highlight these issues in our objectives: (1) to uncover specific family problems associated with mutual involvement in life with type 2-diabetes and (2) to analytically look at ways of approaching these problems in healthcare settings. Methods: Qualitative data were gathered in participatory problem assessment workshops. The data were analysed in three rounds using radical hermeneutics. Results: Problems were categorized in six domains: knowledge, communication, support, everyday life, roles and worries. The final cross-analysis focusing on the link between family identity and healthcare authenticity provided information on how the six domains can be approached in healthcare settings. Conclusion: The study generated important knowledge about problems associated with family involvement in life with type 2 diabetes and about how family involvement can be supported in healthcare practice. PMID:28839943

Paraduodenal Pancreatitis: Imaging and Pathologic Correlation of 47 Cases Elucidates Distinct Subtypes and the Factors Involved in its Etiopathogenesis.

PubMed

Muraki, Takashi; Kim, Grace E; Reid, Michelle D; Mittal, Pardeep; Bedolla, Gabriela; Memis, Bahar; Pehlivanoglu, Burcin; Freedman, Alexa; Erbarut Seven, Ipek; Choi, Hyejeong; Kooby, David; Maithel, Shishir K; Sarmiento, Juan M; Krasinskas, Alyssa; Adsay, Volkan

2017-10-01

Clinicopathologic characteristics of paraduodenal (groove) pancreatitis (PDP) remain to be fully unraveled. In this study, 47 PDPs with preoperative enhanced images available were subjected to detailed comparative analysis in conjunction with pathologic findings. PDP were predominantly in males (3:1) with a mean age of 50 years, and 60% had a preoperative diagnosis of cancer. Mean lesional size was 3.1 cm. Three distinct subtypes were identified by imaging. Solid-tumoral (type-1) with groove-predominant (type-1A, 36%) forming a distinct solid band between the duodenum and pancreas often with histologic microabscesses (69% vs. 33% in others), and pancreas-involving (type-1B, 19%) forming a pseudotumoral mass spanning into the head-groove area, always diagnosed preoperatively as "cancer," but often lacked parenchymal atrophy of the body (44% vs. 92%). Cyst-forming (type-2) had groove-predominant (type-2A, 15%), often accompanied by Brunner gland hyperplasia, and pancreas-predominant (type-2B, 15%) were in younger (mean: 44 y) females (57% vs. 18%) and had less alcohol/tobacco abuse (50/33% vs. 81/69%). Ill-defined (type-3; 15%) often had main pancreatic duct dilatation (mean: 5.6 vs. 2.8 mm). The capricious presentations of PDP could be attributed to variable effects of different mechanistic and precipitative etiopathogenetic factors such as disturbed accessory duct outflow (dilated Santorini duct, 87%), aggravated by alcohol (77%) with superimposed stasis in the main ampulla (previous cholecystectomy, 47%; choledocholithiasis, 9%), strictured Wirsung duct (68%), and some likely exacerbated by ischemia (hypertension [59%], tobacco abuse [64%], arteriosclerosis in the tissue [23%]). In conclusion, our study identified 3 distinct types of PDP and each may reflect different pathogenetic contributing factors.

Comparison of Program Effects: The Use of Mastery Scores.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Yeh, Jennie P.; Moy, Raymond

The setting of a cut-off score on a mastery test usually involves a consideration of one or more of the following elements: (1) the distribution of observed test scores; (2) the type of mastery criterion used; (3) the level of acceptable risks of mis-classification; (4) the loss of functions of mis-classifications; and (5) the distribution of true…

The Influence of the College Environment and Student Involvement on First-Year Academic Self-Concept

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Stocksdale, Brent

2015-01-01

Enhancing the self-beliefs of college students--in particular, academic self-concept--has been suggested as one way to enhance college student success. However, the literature on the influence of college often does not clearly identify nor effectively assess the type of self-belief being investigated, and little remains known as to how and when…

Effect of seedbed preparation on natural reproduction of spruce and hemlock under dense shade

Treesearch

Grant Davis; Arthur C. Hart

1961-01-01

The cutting practices commonly recommended for spruce-fir stands in the Northeast involve uneven-aged management. The success of this type of management is predicated upon stand structures that have a range of size classes from seedlings to mature trees in intimate mixture. This kind of stand structure requires a continuous supply of reproduction of desirable species....

Ethical and Legal Issues Associated with the Use of Aversives in the Public Schools: The SIBIS Controversy.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Jacob-Timm, Susan

1996-01-01

Explores four types of intervention available in treating self-injurious behavior (SIB). One effective, although controversial, treatment in reducing SIB involves use of Self-Injurious Behavior Inhibiting System (SIBIS), a device which delivers a mild electric shock following a blow to the head. Reviews and explains the ethical and legal issues…

Pro-Oxidant Biological Effects of Inorganic Component of Petroleum: Vanadium and Oxidative Stress

DTIC Science & Technology

1996-08-01

independent existence. Pro-Oxidant Chemicals and Free Radicals Involved in Oxidative Stress Pro-Oxidant Chemicals Chemical and Metabolic Generation... metabolic reactions may generate primary free radicals (Fig. 1). Then, in an avalanche-type process, secondary free radicals and reactive oxygen species...vanadium absorption, distribution, metabolism , and disposition, and no pharmacokinetic model is available describing comparative kinetics and toxicity

When Familiarity Breeds Respect: Toward the Depolarization of Police and Student Attitudes toward Each Other.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Diamond, Michael Jay; And Others

An exploratory project, designed to facilitate non-violent interactions between activist students and police, is described. A total of 30 policemen and 161 volunteer college students, of whom 92 served as a no-treatment control group, were involved. The effects of 3 possible types of contact were studied: (1) squad-car riding; (2) informal dinners…

On the (Elusive) Role of Oral Motor-Movements in Fluency-Based Memory Illusions

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Westerman, Deanne L.; Klin, Celia M.; Lanska, Meredith

2015-01-01

It is well established that the ease with which a stimulus is processed affects many different types of evaluative judgments. Recently, it has been proposed that for verbal stimuli the effect of fluency on such judgments is mediated by the muscles that are involved in speech (Topolinski & Strack, 2009, 2010). Evidence for this claim can be…

Carbon catalysis of reactions in the lithium SOCl2 and SO2 systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kilroy, W. P.

1981-01-01

Certain hazards associated with lithium batteries have delayed widespread acceptance of these power sources. The reactivity of ground lithium carbon mixtures was examined. The effect of carbon types on this reactivity was determined. The basic reaction involved mixtures of lithium and carbon with battery electrolyte. The various parameters that influenced this reactivity included: the nature and freshness of the carbon; the freshness, the purity, and the conductive salt of the electrolyte; and the effect of Teflon or moisture.

Cilnidipine, an L/N-type calcium channel blocker prevents acquisition and expression of ethanol-induced locomotor sensitization in mice.

PubMed

Bhutada, Pravinkumar; Mundhada, Yogita; Patil, Jayshree; Rahigude, Anand; Zambare, Krushna; Deshmukh, Prashant; Tanwar, Dhanshree; Jain, Kishor

2012-04-11

Several evidences indicated the involvement of L- and N-type calcium channels in behavioral effects of drugs of abuse, including ethanol. Calcium channels are implicated in ethanol-induced behaviors and neurochemical responses. Calcium channel antagonists block the psychostimulants induced behavioral sensitization. Recently, it is demonstrated that L-, N- and T-type calcium channel blockers attenuate the acute locomotor stimulant effects of ethanol. However, no evidence indicated the role of calcium channels in ethanol-induced psychomotor sensitization. Therefore, present study evaluated the influence of cilnidipine, an L/N-type calcium channel blocker on acquisition and expression of ethanol-induced locomotor sensitization. The results revealed that cilnidipine (0.1 and 1.0μg/mouse, i.c.v.) attenuates the expression of sensitization to locomotor stimulant effect of ethanol (2.0g/kg, i.p.), whereas pre- treatment of cilnidipine (0.1 and 1.0μg/mouse, i.c.v.) during development of sensitization blocks acquisition and attenuates expression of sensitization to locomotor stimulant effect of ethanol. Cilnidipine per se did not influence locomotor activity in tested doses. Further, cilnidipine had no influence on effect of ethanol on rotarod performance. These results support the hypothesis that neuroadaptive changes in calcium channels participate in the acquisition and the expression of ethanol-induced locomotor sensitization. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Mind the gap—deficits in our knowledge of aspects impacting the bioavailability of phytochemicals and their metabolites—a position paper focusing on carotenoids and polyphenols

PubMed Central

McDougall, Gordon J.; Alegría, Amparo; Alminger, Marie; Arrigoni, Eva; Aura, Anna‐Marja; Brito, Catarina; Cilla, Antonio; El, Sedef N.; Karakaya, Sibel; Martínez‐Cuesta, Marie C.; Santos, Claudia N.

2015-01-01

Various secondary plant metabolites or phytochemicals, including polyphenols and carotenoids, have been associated with a variety of health benefits, such as reduced incidence of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and several types of cancer, most likely due to their involvement in ameliorating inflammation and oxidative stress. However, discrepancies exist between their putative effects when comparing observational and intervention studies, especially when using pure compounds. These discrepancies may in part be explained by differences in intake levels and their bioavailability. Prior to exerting their bioactivity, these compounds must be made bioavailable, and considerable differences may arise due to their matrix release, changes during digestion, uptake, metabolism, and biodistribution, even before considering dose‐ and host‐related factors. Though many insights have been gained on factors affecting secondary plant metabolite bioavailability, many gaps still exist in our knowledge. In this position paper, we highlight several major gaps in our understanding of phytochemical bioavailability, including effects of food processing, changes during digestion, involvement of cellular transporters in influx/efflux through the gastrointestinal epithelium, changes during colonic fermentation, and their phase I and phase II metabolism following absorption. PMID:25988374

US payer perspectives on evidence for formulary decision making.

PubMed

Wang, Anthony; Halbert, Ronald J; Baerwaldt, Tiffany; Nordyke, Robert J

2012-05-01

The perspective of commercial payers on comparative effectiveness research (CER) has not been well researched. This study aims to describe how US commercial payers use and value CER for formulary decision making in different disease states. We recruited 20 medical and pharmaceutical directors from national and regional plans who are involved in pharmaceutical and therapeutics committees to participate in the study. We conducted in-depth qualitative interviews with the payers and asked them to rate the usefulness of CER study types across various disease states and market conditions. The results were analyzed for thematic content. Our findings indicate that payers are interested in a broad range of CER study types, are unsatisfied with the current state of CER, and would like to partner with research groups to develop research and treatment guidelines to better leverage CER. Payers value CER less in oncology than in other disease states because of limitations in their ability to manage oncology therapies. To improve formulary design processes and support payers in providing more effective healthcare, policy makers should consider involving commercial payers in the development of CER as well as in the creation of research and treatment guidelines.

Gangs, clubs, and alcohol: The effect of organizational membership on adolescent drinking behavior.

PubMed

Suh, Chan S; Brashears, Matthew E; Genkin, Michael

2016-07-01

How does adolescent organizational membership in general, and simultaneous membership in distinct types of organizations in particular, impact drinking behavior? While past studies have focused either on the learning effect of involvement with gangs or on the constraining influence of conventional organizations on adolescent problem behavior, we explore the possibility that conventional school clubs can serve as socializing opportunities for existing gang members to engage in drinking behavior with non-gang club members. Using the Add Health data, we show that gang members drink more often, and engage in more binge drinking, than non-members. More importantly, individuals who are members of both gangs and school clubs drink alcohol at greater levels than those who are solely involved in gangs. In addition, non-gang adolescents who are co-members with gang members in the same school club are more likely to drink alcohol than non-members. This result has important implications for understanding the role of organizations in adolescent behavior and suggests that the study of delinquent behaviors would benefit from devoting more attention to individuals who bridge distinct types of organizations. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Synchronisation control for neutral-type multi-slave stochastic hybrid systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhou, Jun; Pan, Feng; Cai, Tingting; Sun, Yuqing; Zhou, Wuneng; Liu, Huashan

2017-10-01

In this paper, an exponential synchronisation problem for neutral-type multi-slave hybrid systems with stochastic perturbation is discussed, where the adaptive synchronisation model involves a master system and multiple slave systems. By the use of generalised It?'s formula and M-matrix method, a sufficient condition is obtained to guarantee the stability of the error system, and the update law of the feedback controller is determined to deduce the synchronisation between the master system and the sum system of all slave systems. Finally, a numerical example is given to illustrate the effectiveness of the results obtained in this paper.

Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor (enalapril maleate) accelerates recovery of mouse skin from UVB-induced wrinkles.

PubMed

Matsuura-Hachiya, Yuko; Arai, Koji Y; Ozeki, Rieko; Kikuta, Ayako; Nishiyama, Toshio

2013-12-06

Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) activity and angiotensin II signaling regulate cell proliferation, differentiation, and tissue remodeling, as well as blood pressure, while in skin, angiotensin II signaling is involved in wound healing, inflammation, and pathological scar formation. Therefore, we hypothesized that angiotensin II is also involved in photoaging of skin. In this study, we examined the effect of enalapril maleate, an ACE inhibitor, on recovery of wrinkled skin of hairless mice exposed to long-term UVB irradiation. Immunohistochemical observation revealed that expression of ACE, angiotensin II, and angiotensin II type 1 (AT1) and type 2 (AT2) receptors in the skin was increased after UVB irradiation (3 times/week at increasing intensities for 8 weeks). Administration of enalapril maleate (5 times/week for 6 weeks, starting 1 week after 10-week irradiation) accelerated recovery from UVB-induced wrinkles, epidermal hyperplasia and epidermal barrier dysfunction, as compared with the vehicle control. Our results indicate that ACE and angiotensin II activity are involved in skin photoaging, and suggest that ACE inhibitor such as enalapril maleate may have potential for improvement of photoaged skin. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

[Anti-synthetase syndrome: anti-PL-7, anti-PL-12 and anti-EJ].

PubMed

Souza, Fernando Henrique Carlos de; Cruellas, Marcela Gran Pina; Levy-Neto, Mauricio; Shinjo, Samuel Katsuyuki

2013-08-01

Due to the scarcity of studies in the literature, we conducted an analysis of a series of patients with the anti-PL-7, PL-12 and EJ types of antisynthetase syndrome (ASS). We conducted a retrospective cohort study of 20 patients with ASS (8 with anti-PL-7, 6 with PL-12, 6 with EJ) monitored in our department between 1982 and 2012. The mean patient age at disease onset was 38.5 ± 12.9 years, and the disease duration was 4.5 ± 6.4 years. Of all the patients, 70% were white and 85% were female. Constitutional symptoms occurred in 90% of cases. All patients presented objective muscle weakness in the limbs; in addition, 30% were bedridden and 65% demonstrated high dysphagia at diagnosis. Joint and pulmonary involvement and Raynaud's phenomenon occurred in 50%, 40% and 65% of cases, respectively, with more than half of the patients presenting incipient pneumopathy, ground-glass opacity and/or pulmonary fibrosis. There were no cases of neurological and/or cardiac involvement. All patients received prednisone or other immunosuppressants depending on tolerance, side effects and/or disease refractoriness. Importantly, patients with the anti-EJ type of ASS demonstrated higher rates of recurrence. Two patients died during follow-up, and 1 patient had breast cancer at the time of diagnosis. ASS (anti-PL-7, PL-12 and EJ) was found to predominantly affect white women. Although the autoantibodies described in the present study are more related to pulmonary than joint involvement, our patients showed a significant percentage of both types of involvement and a high percentage of myopathy. We also observed a low mortality rate.

Family-based Psychoeducation and Care Ambassador Intervention to Improve Glycemic Control in Youth with Type 1 Diabetes: A Randomized Trial

PubMed Central

Katz, Michelle L.; Volkening, Lisa K.; Butler, Deborah A.; Anderson, Barbara J.; Laffel, Lori M.

2013-01-01

Objective Youth with type 1 diabetes frequently do not achieve glycemic targets. We aimed to improve glycemic control with a Care Ambassador (CA) and family-focused psychoeducational intervention. Research Design and Methods In a 2-year, randomized, clinical trial, we compared 3 groups: 1) standard care, 2) monthly outreach by a CA, and 3) monthly outreach by a CA plus a quarterly clinic-based psychoeducational intervention. The psychoeducational intervention provided realistic expectations and problem-solving strategies related to family diabetes management. Data on diabetes management and A1c were collected, and participants completed surveys assessing parental involvement in management, diabetes-specific family conflict, and youth quality of life. The primary outcome was A1c at 2 years; secondary outcomes included maintaining parent involvement and avoiding deterioration in glycemic control. Results We studied 153 youth (56% female, median age 12.9 years) with type 1 diabetes (mean A1c 8.4±1.4%). There were no differences in A1c across treatment groups. Among youth with suboptimal baseline A1c ≥8%, more youth in the psychoeducation group maintained or improved their A1c and maintained or increased parent involvement than youth in the other 2 groups combined (77% vs. 52%, p=.03; 36% vs. 11%, p=.01, respectively) without negative impact on youth quality of life or increased diabetes-specific family conflict. Conclusions No differences in A1c were detected among the 3 groups at 2 years. The psychoeducational intervention was effective in maintaining or improving A1c and parent involvement in youth with suboptimal baseline glycemic control. PMID:23914987

Effects of electrical stimulation on cell proliferation and apoptosis.

PubMed

Love, Maria R; Palee, Siripong; Chattipakorn, Siriporn C; Chattipakorn, Nipon

2018-03-01

The application of exogenous electrical stimulation (ES) to cells in order to manipulate cell apoptosis and proliferation has been widely investigated as a possible method of treatment in a number of diseases. Alteration of the transmembrane potential of cells via ES can affect various intracellular signaling pathways which are involved in the regulation of cellular function. Controversially, several types of ES have proved to be effective in both inhibiting or inducing apoptosis, as well as increasing proliferation. However, the mechanisms through which ES achieves this remain fairly unclear. The aim of this review was to comprehensively summarize current findings from in vitro and in vivo studies on the effects of different types of ES on cell apoptosis and proliferation, highlighting the possible mechanisms through which ES induced these effects and define the optimum parameters at which ES can be used. Through this we hope to provide a greater insight into how future studies can most effectively use ES at the clinical trial stage. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Neural underpinnings for model-oriented therapy of aphasic word production.

PubMed

Abel, Stefanie; Weiller, Cornelius; Huber, Walter; Willmes, Klaus

2014-05-01

Model-oriented therapies of aphasic word production have been shown to be effective, with item-specific therapy effects being larger than generalisation effects for untrained items. However, it remains unclear whether semantic versus phonological therapy lead to differential effects, depending on type of lexical impairment. Functional imaging studies revealed that mainly left-hemisphere, perisylvian brain areas were involved in successful therapy-induced recovery of aphasic word production. However, the neural underpinnings for model-oriented therapy effects have not received much attention yet. We aimed at identifying brain areas indicating (1) general therapy effects using a naming task measured by functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) in 14 patients before and after a 4-week naming therapy, which comprised increasing semantic and phonological cueing-hierarchies. We also intended to reveal differential effects (2) of training versus generalisation, (3) of therapy methods, and (4) of type of impairment as assessed by the connectionist Dell model. Training effects were stronger than generalisation effects, even though both were significant. Furthermore, significant impairment-specific therapy effects were observed for patients with phonological disorders (P-patients). (1) Left inferior frontal gyrus, pars opercularis (IFGoper), was a positive predictor of therapy gains while the right caudate was a negative predictor. Moreover, less activation decrease due to therapy in left-hemisphere temporo-parietal language areas was positively correlated with therapy gains. (2) Naming of trained compared to untrained words yielded less activation decrease in left superior temporal gyrus (STG) and precuneus, bilateral thalamus, and right caudate due to therapy. (3) Differential therapy effects could be detected in the right superior parietal lobule for the semantic method, and in regions involving bilateral anterior and mid cingulate, right precuneus, and left middle/superior frontal gyrus for the phonological method. (4) Impairment-specific changes of activation were found for P-patients in left IFGoper. Patients with semantic disorders (S-patients) relied on right frontal areas involving IFG, pars triangularis. After therapy, they revealed less activation decrease in areas involving left STG, caudate, paracentral lobule, and right rolandic operculum. Regarding naming performance, the present study corroborates previous findings on training and generalisation effects and reveals differential therapy effects for P-patients. Moreover, brain imaging results confirm a predominance of (1) general effects in the left brain hemisphere. (2) Brain regions related to visual strategy, monitoring/feedback, and articulatory patterns were characteristic for the familiar trained items. (3) Distinct regions associated with strategies, monitoring capacities, and linguistic information indicate the specific therapeutic influence on word retrieval. (4) While P-patients relied more on preserved phonological functions in the left hemisphere, S-patients revealed right-sided compensation of semantic processing as well as increased strategic efforts in both hemispheres. Copyright © 2014 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

The effects of electronic stability control (ESC) on crashes--an update.

PubMed

Høye, Alena

2011-05-01

The present study is an update of the meta-analysis by Erke (Erke, A., 2008. Effects of Electronic Stability Control (ESC) on accidents: a review of empirical evidence. Accident Analysis & Prevention, 40 (1), 167-173). Results from 12 studies of the effects of Electronic Stability Control (ESC) on the number of different types of crashes were summarized by means of meta-analysis. The results indicate that ESC prevents about 40% of all crashes involving loss of control. The greatest reductions were found for rollover crashes (-50%), followed by run-off-road (-40%) and single vehicle crashes (-25%). These results are however likely to be somewhat overestimated, especially for non-fatal crashes. Multiple vehicle crashes were found to be largely unchanged. Reductions were found for some types of multiple vehicle crashes. Rear-end collisions are unchanged or may increase. Fatal crashes involving pedestrians, bicycles or animals were found to increase as well. ESC was found to be more effective in preventing fatal crashes than non-fatal crashes. ESC is often found to be more effective in Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs) than in passenger cars. This may be due to differences between drivers of SUVs and passenger cars. The results from meta-analysis indicate that drivers of ESC-equipped vehicles are likely to be safer drivers than other drivers. All the same, ESC may lead to behavioural adaptation in some cases, but it is not likely that behavioural adaptation offsets the positive safety effects. This may be due to a lack of knowledge about ESC. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The effectiveness of policies for reducing dietary trans fat: a systematic review of the evidence

PubMed Central

Thow, Anne Marie; Leeder, Stephen R

2013-01-01

Abstract Objective To systematically review evidence for the effectiveness of policies, including self-regulation, aimed at reducing industrially produced trans fatty acids (TFAs) in food. Methods The Medline, Embase and Cinahl databases were searched to identify peer-reviewed articles examining the effect of TFA policies. In addition, the first 20 pages of Google searches were examined for articles from the grey literature. A study was included if: (i) it was empirical and conducted in a “real-world” setting (i.e. modelling studies were excluded); (ii) it examined a TFA policy involving, for example, labelling, voluntary limits or bans; and (iii) it examined a policy’s effect on TFA levels in food, people’s diets, blood or breast milk. Findings Twenty-six articles met the inclusion criteria: 5 involved voluntary self-regulation; 8, labelling alone; 4, labelling and voluntary limits; 5, local bans and 4, national bans. Overall, the TFA content of food decreased with all types of policy intervention. In general, saturated fat levels increased or decreased, depending on the product type, and total fat content remained stable. National and local bans were most effective at eliminating TFAs from the food supply, whereas mandatory TFA labelling and voluntary TFA limits had a varying degree of success, which largely depended on food category. Conclusion Policies aimed at restricting the TFA content of food were associated with significant reductions in TFA levels, without increasing total fat content. Such policies are feasible, achievable and likely to have an effect on public health. PMID:23599549

Effect of acute exercise on AMPK signaling in skeletal muscle of subjects with type 2 diabetes: a time-course and dose-response study.

PubMed

Sriwijitkamol, Apiradee; Coletta, Dawn K; Wajcberg, Estela; Balbontin, Gabriela B; Reyna, Sara M; Barrientes, John; Eagan, Phyllis A; Jenkinson, Christopher P; Cersosimo, Eugenio; DeFronzo, Ralph A; Sakamoto, Kei; Musi, Nicolas

2007-03-01

Activation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) by exercise induces several cellular processes in muscle. Exercise activation of AMPK is unaffected in lean (BMI approximately 25 kg/m(2)) subjects with type 2 diabetes. However, most type 2 diabetic subjects are obese (BMI >30 kg/m(2)), and exercise stimulation of AMPK is blunted in obese rodents. We examined whether obese type 2 diabetic subjects have impaired exercise stimulation of AMPK, at different signaling levels, spanning from the upstream kinase, LKB1, to the putative AMPK targets, AS160 and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor coactivator (PGC)-1alpha, involved in glucose transport regulation and mitochondrial biogenesis, respectively. Twelve type 2 diabetic, eight obese, and eight lean subjects exercised on a cycle ergometer for 40 min. Muscle biopsies were done before, during, and after exercise. Subjects underwent this protocol on two occasions, at low (50% Vo(2max)) and moderate (70% Vo(2max)) intensities, with a 4-6 week interval. Exercise had no effect on LKB1 activity. Exercise had a time- and intensity-dependent effect to increase AMPK activity and AS160 phosphorylation. Obese and type 2 diabetic subjects had attenuated exercise-stimulated AMPK activity and AS160 phosphorylation. Type 2 diabetic subjects had reduced basal PGC-1 gene expression but normal exercise-induced increases in PGC-1 expression. Our findings suggest that obese type 2 diabetic subjects may need to exercise at higher intensity to stimulate the AMPK-AS160 axis to the same level as lean subjects.

Effect of Acute Exercise on AMPK Signaling in Skeletal Muscle of Subjects With Type 2 Diabetes

PubMed Central

Sriwijitkamol, Apiradee; Coletta, Dawn K.; Wajcberg, Estela; Balbontin, Gabriela B.; Reyna, Sara M.; Barrientes, John; Eagan, Phyllis A.; Jenkinson, Christopher P.; Cersosimo, Eugenio; DeFronzo, Ralph A.; Sakamoto, Kei; Musi, Nicolas

2010-01-01

Activation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) by exercise induces several cellular processes in muscle. Exercise activation of AMPK is unaffected in lean (BMI ~25 kg/m2) subjects with type 2 diabetes. However, most type 2 diabetic subjects are obese (BMI >30 kg/m2), and exercise stimulation of AMPK is blunted in obese rodents. We examined whether obese type 2 diabetic subjects have impaired exercise stimulation of AMPK, at different signaling levels, spanning from the upstream kinase, LKB1, to the putative AMPK targets, AS160 and peroxisome proliferator–activated receptor coactivator (PGC)-1α, involved in glucose transport regulation and mitochondrial biogenesis, respectively. Twelve type 2 diabetic, eight obese, and eight lean subjects exercised on a cycle ergometer for 40 min. Muscle biopsies were done before, during, and after exercise. Subjects underwent this protocol on two occasions, at low (50% VO2max) and moderate (70% VO2max) intensities, with a 4–6 week interval. Exercise had no effect on LKB1 activity. Exercise had a time- and intensity-dependent effect to increase AMPK activity and AS160 phosphorylation. Obese and type 2 diabetic subjects had attenuated exercise-stimulated AMPK activity and AS160 phosphorylation. Type 2 diabetic subjects had reduced basal PGC-1 gene expression but normal exercise-induced increases in PGC-1 expression. Our findings suggest that obese type 2 diabetic subjects may need to exercise at higher intensity to stimulate the AMPK-AS160 axis to the same level as lean subjects. PMID:17327455

Lump-type solutions for the (4+1)-dimensional Fokas equation via symbolic computations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cheng, Li; Zhang, Yi

2017-09-01

Based on the Hirota bilinear form, two classes of lump-type solutions of the (4+1)-dimensional nonlinear Fokas equation, rationally localized in almost all directions in the space are obtained through a direct symbolic computation with Maple. The resulting lump-type solutions contain free parameters. To guarantee the analyticity and rational localization of the solutions, the involved parameters need to satisfy certain constraints. A few particular lump-type solutions with special choices of the involved parameters are given.

Optimal joint remote state preparation in the presence of various types of noises

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hop Nguyen, Van; Bich Cao, Thi; Nguyen, Ba An

2017-03-01

A main obstacle faced by any quantum information processing protocol is the noise that degrades the desired coherence/entanglement. In this work we study by means of Kraus operators the effect of four typical types of noises on the quality of joint remote state preparation of a single-qubit state using a three-qubit Greenberger-Horne-Zeilinger-type state as the initial quantum channel. Assuming that two of the three involved qubits independently suffer a type of noise, we derive analytical expressions not only for the optimal averaged fidelities but also for the boundaries in phase space of the domains in which the joint remote state preparation protocol outperforms the classical one. Detailed discussion is given for each of the total 16 noisy scenarios. We also provide physical interpretation for the obtained results and outline possible future topics.

Screening of the USH1G gene among Spanish patients with Usher syndrome. Lack of mutations and evidence of a minor role in the pathogenesis of the syndrome.

PubMed

Aller, Elena; Jaijo, Teresa; Beneyto, Magdalena; Nájera, Carmen; Morera, Constantino; Pérez-Garrigues, Herminio; Ayuso, Carmen; Millán, Jose

2007-09-01

The Usher syndrome (USH) is an autosomal recessive hereditary disorder characterized by the association of sensorineural hearing loss, retinitis pigmentosa (RP) and, in some cases, vestibular dysfunction. The USH1G gene, encoding SANS, has been found to cause both Usher syndrome type I and atypical Usher syndrome. 109 Spanish unrelated patients suffering from Usher syndrome type I, type II, type III and unclassified Usher syndrome were screened for mutations in this gene, but only eight different changes without a clear pathogenic effect have been detected. Based on these results as well as previous studies in other populations where mutational analysis of this gene has been carried out, one can conclude that USH1G has a minor involvement in Usher syndrome pathogenesis.

[Diabetes and dyslipidemia: Why are they so closely related?

PubMed

Rašlová, Katarína

Diabetes mellitus is a group of metabolic diseases that are characterized by hyperglycemia resulting from defects in insulin secretion, insulin action, or both. The cause of premature death among patients with diabetes predominantly involves cardiovascular diseases. The risk of death from cardiovascular complications is so high that diabetes mellitus is considered a risk equivalent to a manifest atherosclerotic disease. High cardiovascular risk is also determined by dyslipidemia which is present in a large number of patients with diabetes. The review is devoted to the pathogenesis of dyslipidemia in type 1 and type 2 diabetes with an emphasis on atherogenic dyslipidemia. It describes the strategy of therapeutic procedures and their effect on cardiovascular morbidity and mortality.Key words: atherogenic dyslipidemia - fibrates - statins - type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Acceptability of formulations and application methods for vaginal microbicides among drug-involved women: results of product trials in three cities.

PubMed

Hammett, T M; Mason, T H; Joanis, C L; Foster, S E; Harmon, P; Robles, R R; Finlinson, H A; Feudo, R; Vining-Bethea, S; Jeter, G; Mayer, K H; Doherty-Iddings, P; Seage, G R

2000-02-01

Female-controlled methods of HIV prevention, such as vaginal microbicides, are urgently needed, particularly among drug-involved women. Acceptability research is critical to product development. To assess the acceptability of forms and application methods for future microbicides. Eighty-four drug-involved women were introduced in groups to three lubricant products, asked to try each for 3 weeks, and scheduled for individual follow-up interviews. Participants and their partners felt positive about the products, and expressed willingness to use microbicides if they were shown to be effective against HIV. Women agreed on product characteristics that influenced their reactions (e.g. ease of insertion, degree of "messiness"), but often disagreed on whether their reactions to these characteristics were positive or negative. Development of acceptable and effective HIV-prevention products depends on understanding the interaction between characteristics of the products and the characteristics and perceptions of women. Levels of sexual risk and acceptability factors based on drug-use patterns, race and ethnicity, culture, age, and types and attitudes of male partners suggest that a "one size fits all" approach will not win broad acceptance among drug-involved women.

Role of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2/angiotensin-(1-7)/Mas axis in the hypotensive effect of azilsartan.

PubMed

Iwanami, Jun; Mogi, Masaki; Tsukuda, Kana; Wang, Xiao-Li; Nakaoka, Hirotomo; Ohshima, Kousei; Chisaka, Toshiyuki; Bai, Hui-Yu; Kanno, Harumi; Min, Li-Juan; Horiuchi, Masatsugu

2014-07-01

The possible counteracting effect of angiotensin (Ang)-converting enzyme (ACE)2/Ang-(1-7)/Mas axis against the ACE/Ang II/Ang II type 1 (AT1) receptor axis in blood pressure control has been previously described. We examined the possibility that this pathway might be involved in the anti-hypertensive effect of a newly developed AT1 receptor blocker (ARB), azilsartan, and compared azilsartan's effects with those of another ARB, olmesartan. Transgenic mice carrying the human renin and angiotensinogen genes (hRN/hANG-Tg) were given azilsartan or olmesartan. Systolic and diastolic blood pressure, as determined by radiotelemetry, were significantly higher in hRN/hANG-Tg mice than in wild-type (WT) mice. Treatment with azilsartan or olmesartan (1 or 5 mg kg(-1) per day) significantly decreased systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and the blood pressure-lowering effect of azilsartan was more marked than that of olmesartan. The urinary Na concentration decreased in an age-dependent manner in hRN/hANG-Tg mice. Administration of azilsartan or olmesartan increased urinary Na concentration, and this effect was weaker with olmesartan than with azilsartan. Azilsartan decreased ENaC-α mRNA expression in the kidney and decreased the ratio of heart to body weight. Olmesartan had a similar but less-marked effect. ACE2 mRNA expression was lower in the kidneys and hearts of hRN/hANG-Tg mice than in WT mice. This decrease in ACE2 mRNA expression was attenuated by azilsartan, but not by olmesartan. These results suggest that the hypotensive and anti-hypertrophic effects of azilsartan may involve activation of the ACE2/Ang-(1-7)/Mas axis with AT1 receptor blockade.

An Exploration of How Involvement in a Freshman Retention Program Relates to Intention to Complete an Undergraduate Degree

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Clounch, Teresa Lynn

2010-01-01

The study examined the relationship of the level and type of involvement of freshman students in the Hawk Link Retention Program, a first-year program at the University of Kansas, to intent to return and graduate. The study found that participants were retained at a high level but that their type and level of involvement were not related to…

Decision-Making Involvement and Prediction of Adherence in Youth With Type 1 Diabetes: A Cohort Sequential Study.

PubMed

Miller, Victoria A; Jawad, Abbas F

2018-05-17

To assess developmental trajectories of decision-making involvement (DMI), defined as the ways in which parents and children engage each other in decision-making about illness management, in youth with type 1 diabetes (T1D) and examine the effects of DMI on levels of and changes in adherence with age. Participants included 117 youth with T1D, enrolled at ages 8-16 years and assessed five times over 2 years. The cohort sequential design allowed for the approximation of the longitudinal curve from age 8 to 19 from overlapping cohort segments. Children and parents completed the Decision-Making Involvement Scale, which yields subscales for different aspects of DMI, and a self-report adherence questionnaire. Mixed-effects growth curve modeling was used for analysis, with longitudinal measures nested within participant and participants nested within cohort. Most aspects of DMI (Parent Express, Parent Seek, Child Express, and Joint) increased with child age; scores on some child report subscales (Parent Express, Child Seek, and Joint) decreased after age 12-14 years. After accounting for age, Child Seek, Child Express, and Joint were associated with overall higher levels of adherence in both child (estimates = 0.08-0.13, p < .001) and parent (estimates = 0.07- 0.13, p < .01) report models, but they did not predict changes in adherence with age. These data suggest that helping children to be more proactive in T1D discussions, by encouraging them to express their opinions, share information, and solicit guidance from parents, is a potential target for interventions to enhance effective self-management.

ERE environment- and cell type-specific transcriptional effects of estrogen in normal endometrial cells.

PubMed

Lascombe, I; Sallot, M; Vuillermoz, C; Weisz, A; Adessi, G L; Jouvenot, M

1998-04-30

Our previous results have suggested a repression of E2 (17beta-estradiol) effect on the c-fos gene of cultured guinea-pig endometrial cells. To investigate this repression, the expression of three human c-fos gene recombinants, pFC1-BL (-2250/+41), pFC2-BL (-1400/+41) and pFC2E (-1300/-1050 and -230/+41), known to be E2-responsive in Hela cells, was studied in stromal (SC) and glandular epithelial cells (GEC). In both cellular types, pFC1-BL was not induced by E2, even in the presence of growth factors or co-transfected estrogen receptor. The pattern of pFC2-BL and pFC2E expression was strikingly different and depended on the cellular type: pFC2-BL and pFC2E induction was restricted to the glandular epithelial cells and did not occur in the SCs. We argue for a repression of E2 action which is dependent on the estrogen-responsive cis-acting element (ERE) environment and also cell type-specific involving DNA/protein and/or protein/protein interactions with cellular type-specific factors.

The Effect of Diabetes Self-Management Education on Hba1c Level and Fasting Blood Sugar in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients in Primary Health Care in Binjai City of North Sumatera, Indonesia

PubMed Central

Rusdiana; Savira, Maya; Amelia, Rina

2018-01-01

AIM: The study aimed to evaluate the effect of short-term diabetes self-management education (DSME) on Hba1and Fasting Blood Sugar in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients attending the Primary Health Care (PHC) in Binjai city of North Sumatera, Indonesia. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: A quasi-experimental (pretest-posttest) study was conducted in 4 PHCs, involving 80 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. The patients in received a 3-months intervention, including an 8 week education on self- management of diabetes mellitus and subsequent 4 weeks of practice of the self- management guidelines.The patients received standard advice on diet management. RESULTS: There was a significant reduction in Hba1c levels. The statistical analysis using t-test found that there was a significant difference of Hba1c value between pre and post education among type 2 diabetes mellitus patients (p < 0.005). CONCLUSIONS: Diabetes self-management education in PHC of Binjai city can reduce the Hba1c level in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients. PMID:29731946

The effect of pollen source vs. flower type on progeny performance and seed predation under contrasting light environments in a cleistogamous herb.

PubMed

Munguía-Rosas, Miguel A; Campos-Navarrete, María J; Parra-Tabla, Víctor

2013-01-01

Dimorphic cleistogamy is a specialized form of mixed mating system where a single plant produces both open, potentially outcrossed chasmogamous (CH) and closed, obligately self-pollinated cleistogamous (CL) flowers. Typically, CH flowers and seeds are bigger and energetically more costly than those of CL. Although the effects of inbreeding and floral dimorphism are critical to understanding the evolution and maintenance of cleistogamy, these effects have been repeatedly confounded. In an attempt to separate these effects, we compared the performance of progeny derived from the two floral morphs while controlling for the source of pollen. That is, flower type and pollen source effects were assessed by comparing the performance of progeny derived from selfed CH vs. CL and outcrossed CH vs. selfed CH flowers, respectively. The experiment was carried out with the herb Ruellia nudiflora under two contrasting light environments. Outcrossed progeny generally performed better than selfed progeny. However, inbreeding depression ranges from low (1%) to moderate (36%), with the greatest value detected under shaded conditions when cumulative fitness was used. Although flower type generally had less of an effect on progeny performance than pollen source did, the progeny derived from selfed CH flowers largely outperformed the progeny from CL flowers, but only under shaded conditions and when cumulative fitness was taken into account. On the other hand, the source of pollen and flower type influenced seed predation, with selfed CH progeny the most heavily attacked by predators. Therefore, the effects of pollen source and flower type are environment-dependant and seed predators may increase the genetic differences between progeny derived from CH and CL flowers. Inbreeding depression alone cannot account for the maintenance of a mixed mating system in R. nudiflora and other unidentified mechanisms must thus be involved.

One week treatment with the IL-1 receptor antagonist anakinra leads to a sustained improvement in insulin sensitivity in insulin resistant patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus.

PubMed

van Asseldonk, Edwin J P; van Poppel, Pleun C M; Ballak, Dov B; Stienstra, Rinke; Netea, Mihai G; Tack, Cees J

2015-10-01

Inflammation associated with obesity is involved in the development of insulin resistance. We hypothesized that anti-inflammatory treatment with the Interleukin-1 receptor antagonist anakinra would improve insulin sensitivity. In an open label proof-of-concept study, we included overweight patients diagnosed with type 1 diabetes with an HbA1c level over 7.5%. Selecting insulin resistant patients with longstanding type 1 diabetes allowed us to study the effects of anakinra on insulin sensitivity. Patients were treated with 100mg anakinra daily for one week. Insulin sensitivity, insulin need and blood glucose profiles were measured before, after one week and after four weeks of follow-up. Fourteen patients completed the study. One week of anakinra treatment led to an improvement of insulin sensitivity, an effect that was sustained for four weeks. Similarly, glucose profiles, HbA1c levels and insulin needs improved. In conclusion, one week of treatment with anakinra improves insulin sensitivity in patients with type 1 diabetes. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Hibiscus sabdariffa polyphenols alleviate insulin resistance and renal epithelial to mesenchymal transition: a novel action mechanism mediated by type 4 dipeptidyl peptidase.

PubMed

Peng, Chiung-Huei; Yang, Yi-Sun; Chan, Kuei-Chuan; Wang, Chau-Jong; Chen, Mu-Lin; Huang, Chien-Ning

2014-10-08

The epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) is important in renal fibrosis. Ser307 phosphorylation of insulin receptor substrate-1 (IRS-1 (S307)) is a hallmark of insulin resistance. We report that polyphenol extracts of Hibiscus sabdariffa (HPE) ameliorate diabetic nephropathy and EMT. Recently it has been observed that type 4 dipeptidyl peptidase (DPP-4) inhibitor linagliptin is effective for treating type 2 diabetes and albuminuria. We investigated if DPP-4 and insulin resistance are involved in renal EMT and explored the role of HPE. In high glucose-stimulated tubular cells, HPE, like linagliptin, inhibited DPP-4 activation, thereby regulating vimentin (EMT marker) and IRS-1 (S307). IRS-1 knockdown revealed its essential role in mediating downstream EMT. In type 2 diabetic rats, pIRS-1 (S307) abundantly surrounds the tubular region, with increased vimentin in kidney. Both the expressions were reduced by HPE. In conclusion, HPE exerts effects similar to those of linagliptin, which improves insulin resistance and EMT, and could be an adjuvant to prevent diabetic nephropathy.

Differential Left Hippocampal Activation during Retrieval with Different Types of Reminders: An fMRI Study of the Reconsolidation Process

PubMed Central

De Pino, Gabriela; Fernández, Rodrigo Sebastián; Villarreal, Mirta Fabiana; Pedreira, María Eugenia

2016-01-01

Consolidated memories return to a labile state after the presentation of cues (reminders) associated with acquisition, followed by a period of stabilization (reconsolidation). However not all cues are equally effective in initiating the process, unpredictable cues triggered it, predictable cues do not. We hypothesize that the different effects observed by the different reminder types on memory labilization-reconsolidation depend on a differential neural involvement during reminder presentation. To test it, we developed a declarative task and compared the efficacy of three reminder types in triggering the process in humans (Experiment 1). Finally, we compared the brain activation patterns between the different conditions using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) (Experiment 2). We confirmed that the unpredictable reminder is the most effective in initiating the labilization-reconsolidation process. Furthermore, only under this condition there was differential left hippocampal activation during its presentation. We suggest that the left hippocampus is detecting the incongruence between actual and past events and allows the memory to be updated. PMID:26991776

An Explicit Linear Filtering Solution for the Optimization of Guidance Systems with Statistical Inputs

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stewart, Elwood C.

1961-01-01

The determination of optimum filtering characteristics for guidance system design is generally a tedious process which cannot usually be carried out in general terms. In this report a simple explicit solution is given which is applicable to many different types of problems. It is shown to be applicable to problems which involve optimization of constant-coefficient guidance systems and time-varying homing type systems for several stationary and nonstationary inputs. The solution is also applicable to off-design performance, that is, the evaluation of system performance for inputs for which the system was not specifically optimized. The solution is given in generalized form in terms of the minimum theoretical error, the optimum transfer functions, and the optimum transient response. The effects of input signal, contaminating noise, and limitations on the response are included. From the results given, it is possible in an interception problem, for example, to rapidly assess the effects on minimum theoretical error of such factors as target noise and missile acceleration. It is also possible to answer important questions regarding the effect of type of target maneuver on optimum performance.

Potential effects of current drug therapies on cognitive impairment in patients with type 2 diabetes.

PubMed

Palleria, Caterina; Leporini, Christian; Maida, Francesca; Succurro, Elena; De Sarro, Giovambattista; Arturi, Franco; Russo, Emilio

2016-07-01

Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a complex metabolic disease that can cause serious damage to various organs. Among the best-known complications, an important role is played by cognitive impairment. Impairment of cognitive functioning has been reported both in type 1 and 2 diabetes mellitus. While this comorbidity has long been known, no major advances have been achieved in clinical research; it is clear that appropriate control of blood glucose levels represents the best current (although unsatisfactory) approach in the prevention of cognitive impairment. We have focused our attention on the possible effect on the brain of antidiabetic drugs, despite their effects on blood glucose levels, giving a brief rationale on the mechanisms (e.g. GLP-1, BDNF, ghrelin) that might be involved. Indeed, GLP-1 agonists are currently clinically studied in other neurodegenerative diseases (i.e. Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease); furthermore, also other antidiabetic drugs have proven efficacy in preclinical studies. Overall, promising results are already available and finding new intervention strategies represents a current need in this field of research. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Fast electrochemical deposition of Ni(OH)2 precursor involving water electrolysis for fabrication of NiO thin films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Koyama, Miki; Ichimura, Masaya

2018-05-01

Ni(OH)2 precursor films were deposited by galvanostatic electrochemical deposition (ECD), and NiO thin films were fabricated by annealing in air. The effects of the deposition current densities were studied in a range that included current densities high enough to electrolyze water and generate hydrogen bubbles. The films fabricated by ECD involving water electrolysis had higher transparency and smoother surface morphology than those deposited with lower current densities. In addition, the annealed NiO films clearly had preferred (111) orientation when the deposition was accompanied by water electrolysis. p-type conduction was confirmed for the annealed films.

Imaging and Diagnosis of Physical Child Abuse.

PubMed

Johnson, Marlene M

2017-09-01

Child abuse involves grave and disturbing acts of violence that can have lasting physical and emotional consequences for children and their families. The diagnosis of child abuse is emotionally difficult for those involved, and an error in judgment either way can have a detrimental effect on the health and safety of the child. Physicians rely on the skills of the imaging team to produce high-quality images that assist in differentiating inflicted injuries from accidental trauma. This article explores the significance of imaging in child abuse by discussing the types of injuries that occur and the imaging studies that aid in diagnosing physical child abuse. ©2017 American Society of Radiologic Technologists.

Effect of chromium picolinate on modified forced swimming test in diabetic rats: involvement of serotonergic pathways and potassium channels.

PubMed

Khanam, Razia; Pillai, K K

2006-02-01

Depression occurs frequently in patients with diabetes mellitus. Chromium picolinate, an essential trace element is recommended for diabetes and also has been reported to benefit depression, but its mechanism is still debated. To investigate the mechanism, we studied its effects on serum insulin, serum glucose and on modified forced swimming test, a behavioural paradigm for depression in rats. The study involving co-administration of sub-active doses of glimepiride, a K(+) channel blocker and chromium picolinate on blood glucose levels and modified forced swimming test was also performed to probe any role of K(+) channels in its antidiabetic and antidepressants effects. Streptozotocin (55 mg/kg, intraperitoneally) was injected in rats to induce diabetes (Type 1). After a week, chromium picolinate (8 microg/ml in drinking water) was administered for 4 weeks. Normal rats received similar drug treatment. The sub-active doses of chromium picolinate (4 microg/ml in drinking water) and glimeperide (2.5 mg/kg, orally) were co-administered and their effects on modified forced swimming test and on glucose levels were measured. Chromium picolinate (8 microg/ml in drinking water) produced hypoglycaemia in diabetic and normal rats. It had no effects on the streptozotocin-induced reduction in insulin levels. Chromium picolinate (8 microg/ml in drinking water) increased swimming with subsequent decrease in immobility. The sub-active doses of chromium picolinate and glimeperide showed significant additive effects in modified forced swimming test and reduction in serum glucose concentrations, though statistically insignificant. In conclusion chromium picolinate shows antidepressant action on modified forced swimming test affecting only swimming that suggests serotonergic pathways involvement. The additive effects on swimming in modified forced swimming test and reduction in serum glucose levels shows involvement of K(+) channels in antidiabetic and antidepressant actions of chromium picolinate.

On the independence of visual awareness and metacognition: a signal detection theoretic analysis.

PubMed

Jachs, Barbara; Blanco, Manuel J; Grantham-Hill, Sarah; Soto, David

2015-04-01

Classically, visual awareness and metacognition are thought to be intimately linked, with our knowledge of the correctness of perceptual choices (henceforth metacognition) being dependent on the level of stimulus awareness. Here we used a signal detection theoretic approach involving a Gabor orientation discrimination task in conjunction with trial-by-trial ratings of perceptual awareness and response confidence in order to gauge estimates of type-1 (perceptual) orientation sensitivity and type-2 (metacognitive) sensitivity at different levels of stimulus awareness. Data from three experiments indicate that while the level of stimulus awareness had a profound impact on type-1 perceptual sensitivity, the awareness effect on type-2 metacognitive sensitivity was far lower by comparison. The present data pose a challenge for signal detection theoretic models in which both type-1 (perceptual) and type-2 (metacognitive) processes are assumed to operate on the same input. More broadly, the findings challenge the commonly held view that metacognition is tightly coupled to conscious states. (c) 2015 APA, all rights reserved.

Modality of tumor endothelial VEGFR2 silencing-mediated improvement in intratumoral distribution of lipid nanoparticles.

PubMed

Yamamoto, Shoshiro; Kato, Akari; Sakurai, Yu; Hada, Tomoya; Harashima, Hideyoshi

2017-04-10

The vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-mediated enhancement in vascular permeability is considered to be a major factor in tumor-targeting delivery via the enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect. We previously reported that the silencing of the endothelial VEGF receptor (VEGFR2) by a liposomal siRNA system (RGD-MEND) resulted in an enhanced intratumoral distribution of polyethylene glycol (PEG)-modified liposomes (LPs) in a renal cell carcinoma, a type of hypervascularized cancer, although the inhibition of VEGF signaling would be expected to decrease the permeability of the tumor vasculature. We herein report that the enhancement in the intratumoral distribution of LPs by VEGFR2 inhibition was dependent on the vascular type of the tumor (stroma vessel type; SV and tumor vessel type; TV). In the case of TV-type tumors (renal cell carcinoma and hepatocellular carcinoma), inhibiting VEGFR2 improved intratumoral distribution, while no effect was found in the case of SV-type tumors (colorectal cancer). Moreover, through a comparison of the intratumoral distribution of LPs with a variety of physical properties (100nm vs 400nm, neutral vs negative vs positive), VEGFR2 inhibition was found to alter the tumor microenvironment, including heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPGs). In addition, the results regarding the effect of the size of nanoparticles indicated that VEGFR2 inhibition improved the penetration of nanoparticles through the vessel wall, but not via permeability, suggesting the involvement of an unknown mechanism. Our findings suggest that a combination of anti-angiogenic therapy and delivery via the EPR effect would be useful in certain cases, and that altering the tumor microenvironment by VEGFR2 blockade has a drastic effect on the intratumoral distribution of nanoparticles. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Local infiltration of gonyautoxin is safe and effective in treatment of chronic tension-type headache.

PubMed

Lattes, K; Venegas, P; Lagos, N; Lagos, M; Pedraza, L; Rodriguez-Navarro, A J; García, C

2009-04-01

Gonyautoxin are phycotoxins, whose molecular mechanism of action is a reversible block of the voltage-gated sodium channels at axonal level, impeding nerve impulse propagation. To evaluate clinical efficacy of gonyautoxin in the treatment of patients with chronic tensional-type headache. Open trial from September 2004 to 2005 in Hospital Clínico Universidad de Chile. Twenty-seven patients with chronic tension-type headache were locally infiltrated with gonyautoxins (50 micrograms) in ten sites considered as pain trigger points in a fixed infiltration protocol. In each site, a volume of 200 microlitres was injected. EMG recording was performed before and immediately after infiltrations. Main outcome measures are where a significantly drop-off in acute headache pain score occurs and number of days without headache pain. No side effects were detected in the follow-up period. From base line of 2 weeks, 19 patients of 27 (70%) are the successfully responders to the treatment. They showed the remarkable immediate effect after infiltration demonstrated by trapezium EMG recording. Patients reported a fall in pain score 5 minutes post-injection from 5.0 +/- 2.8 to 1.6 +/- 1.6 (mean +/- SD). The responder showed an average of 8.1 +/- 9.9 weeks of headache pain-free, all of them without a second infiltration or use of any additional analgesic medication. The therapeutic properties of gonyautoxin local infiltration in chronic tension-type headache patients are shown to be safe and effective. This report describes a new therapy for chronic tension-type headache involving local infiltrations of gonyautoxins. The immediate headache pain relief effect shown only minutes after toxin infiltrations were the most remarkable feature of this protocol. This is the first gonyautoxins testing report in the treatment of chronic tension-type headache.

bZIP17 regulates the expression of genes related to seed storage and germination, reducing seed susceptibility to osmotic stress.

PubMed

Cifuentes-Esquivel, Nicolás; Celiz-Balboa, Jonathan; Henriquez-Valencia, Carlos; Mitina, Irina; Arraño-Salinas, Paulina; Moreno, Adrián A; Meneses, Claudio; Blanco-Herrera, Francisca; Orellana, Ariel

2018-04-25

Low temperatures, salinity, and drought cause significant crop losses. These conditions involve osmotic stress, triggering transcriptional remodeling, and consequently, the restitution of cellular homeostasis and growth recovery. Protein transcription factors regulate target genes, thereby mediating plant responses to stress. bZIP17 is a transcription factor involved in cellular responses to salinity and the unfolded protein response. Because salinity can also produce osmotic stress, the role of bZIP17 in response to osmotic stress was assessed. Mannitol treatments induced the transcript accumulation and protein processing of bZIP17. Transcriptomic analyses showed that several genes associated with seed storage and germination showed lower expression in bzip17 mutants than in wild-type plants. Interestingly, bZIP17 transcript was more abundant in seeds, and germination analyses revealed that wild-type plants germinated later than bzip17 mutants in the presence of mannitol, but no effects were observed when the seeds were exposed to ABA. Finally, the transcript levels of bZIP17 target genes that control seed storage and germination were assessed in seeds exposed to mannitol treatments, which showed lower expression levels in bzip17 mutants compared to the wild-type seeds. These results suggest that bZIP17 plays a role in osmotic stress, acting as a negative regulator of germination through the regulation of genes involved in seed storage and germination. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

[Impairment of the immune system caused by drugs].

PubMed

Pichler, W J

1987-03-21

The immune response and the ensuing inflammation relies on a complex interaction of cells and mediators. Various drugs can interfere with individual steps of the immune response, and in so doing they often imitate regulatory mechanisms of the immune system itself. The immunosuppressive effect of corticosteroids is based on changes in cell migration, reduced responsiveness of monocytes/macrophages to various stimuli and diminished production of interleukin-2. Cyclosporin A appears to block prolactin binding to prolactin receptors on lymphocytes, thus interfering with the immunostimulatory effect of prolactin. It also appears to have a Calmodulin antagonism and might thus block lymphokine production. Anticoagulants may block delayed type hypersensitivity reactions, since activation of the coagulation cascade is involved in this type of immune reaction. Attempts to use calcium channel blockers as immunosuppressive agents, or to take advantage of the immunoregulatory effects of adrenergic substances/blockers or other neurotransmitters, are of experimental value only.

Effect of perceived benefits on reluctance to trade.

PubMed

Lin, Hung-Ming; Kao, Danny T; Chuang, Shih-Chieh

2007-06-01

People often tend to be reluctant to trade an owned object for an alternative object. This concept of reluctance to trade is generally called "endowment effect". Loss aversion, which denotes that losses are weighted more heavily than gains, has been applied to interpret the endowment effect. Specifically, no "reluctance to trade" will occur when no loss is involved. In this research, 172 (90 women, 82 men; M age=21 yr., SD= 1.2) and 152 (82 women, 70 men; M age=21 yr., SD= 1.8) undergraduates voluntarily participated in two experiments, respectively. Results of both experiments indicated that participants were willing to trade an owned object for an alternative object when both objects were of the same benefit type and were reluctant to trade when objects were different. Clearly, an exchange was perceived as lower loss when the owned object and the alternative object were of the same benefit type, leading to no reluctance to trade.

The Neural Basis of Typewriting: A Functional MRI Study.

PubMed

Higashiyama, Yuichi; Takeda, Katsuhiko; Someya, Yoshiaki; Kuroiwa, Yoshiyuki; Tanaka, Fumiaki

2015-01-01

To investigate the neural substrate of typewriting Japanese words and to detect the difference between the neural substrate of typewriting and handwriting, we conducted a functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) study in 16 healthy volunteers. All subjects were skillful touch typists and performed five tasks: a typing task, a writing task, a reading task, and two control tasks. Three brain regions were activated during both the typing and the writing tasks: the left superior parietal lobule, the left supramarginal gyrus, and the left premotor cortex close to Exner's area. Although typing and writing involved common brain regions, direct comparison between the typing and the writing task revealed greater left posteromedial intraparietal cortex activation in the typing task. In addition, activity in the left premotor cortex was more rostral in the typing task than in the writing task. These findings suggest that, although the brain circuits involved in Japanese typewriting are almost the same as those involved in handwriting, there are brain regions that are specific for typewriting.

The Neural Basis of Typewriting: A Functional MRI Study

PubMed Central

Higashiyama, Yuichi; Takeda, Katsuhiko; Someya, Yoshiaki; Kuroiwa, Yoshiyuki; Tanaka, Fumiaki

2015-01-01

To investigate the neural substrate of typewriting Japanese words and to detect the difference between the neural substrate of typewriting and handwriting, we conducted a functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) study in 16 healthy volunteers. All subjects were skillful touch typists and performed five tasks: a typing task, a writing task, a reading task, and two control tasks. Three brain regions were activated during both the typing and the writing tasks: the left superior parietal lobule, the left supramarginal gyrus, and the left premotor cortex close to Exner’s area. Although typing and writing involved common brain regions, direct comparison between the typing and the writing task revealed greater left posteromedial intraparietal cortex activation in the typing task. In addition, activity in the left premotor cortex was more rostral in the typing task than in the writing task. These findings suggest that, although the brain circuits involved in Japanese typewriting are almost the same as those involved in handwriting, there are brain regions that are specific for typewriting. PMID:26218431

Effectiveness of service linkages in primary mental health care: a narrative review part 1

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Background With the move to community care and increased involvement of generalist health care providers in mental health, the need for health service partnerships has been emphasised in mental health policy. Within existing health system structures the active strategies that facilitate effective partnership linkages are not clear. The objective of this study was to examine the evidence from peer reviewed literature regarding the effectiveness of service linkages in primary mental health care. Methods A narrative and thematic review of English language papers published between 1998 and 2009. Studies of analytic, descriptive and qualitative designs from Australia, New Zealand, UK, Europe, USA and Canada were included. Data were extracted to examine what service linkages have been used in studies of collaboration in primary mental health care. Findings from the randomised trials were tabulated to show the proportion that demonstrated clinical, service delivery and economic benefits. Results A review of 119 studies found ten linkage types. Most studies used a combination of linkage types and so the 42 RCTs were grouped into four broad linkage categories for meaningful descriptive analysis of outcomes. Studies that used multiple linkage strategies from the suite of "direct collaborative activities" plus "agreed guidelines" plus "communication systems" showed positive clinical (81%), service (78%) and economic (75%) outcomes. Most evidence of effectiveness came from studies of depression. Long term benefits were attributed to medication concordance and the use of case managers with a professional background who received expert supervision. There were fewer randomised trials related to collaborative care of people with psychosis and there were almost none related to collaboration with the wider human service sectors. Because of the variability of study types we did not exclude on quality or attempt to weight findings according to power or effect size. Conclusion There is strong evidence to support collaborative primary mental health care for people with depression when linkages involve "direct collaborative activity", plus "agreed guidelines" and "communication systems". PMID:21481236

The Role of Evolutionary Intermediates in the Host Adaptation of Canine Parvovirus

PubMed Central

Stucker, Karla M.; Pagan, Israel; Cifuente, Javier O.; Kaelber, Jason T.; Lillie, Tyler D.; Hafenstein, Susan; Holmes, Edward C.

2012-01-01

The adaptation of viruses to new hosts is a poorly understood process likely involving a variety of viral structures and functions that allow efficient replication and spread. Canine parvovirus (CPV) emerged in the late 1970s as a host-range variant of a virus related to feline panleukopenia virus (FPV). Within a few years of its emergence in dogs, there was a worldwide replacement of the initial virus strain (CPV type 2) by a variant (CPV type 2a) characterized by four amino acid differences in the capsid protein. However, the evolutionary processes that underlie the acquisition of these four mutations, as well as their effects on viral fitness, both singly and in combination, are still uncertain. Using a comprehensive experimental analysis of multiple intermediate mutational combinations, we show that these four capsid mutations act in concert to alter antigenicity, cell receptor binding, and relative in vitro growth in feline cells. Hence, host adaptation involved complex interactions among both surface-exposed and buried capsid mutations that together altered cell infection and immune escape properties of the viruses. Notably, most intermediate viral genotypes containing different combinations of the four key amino acids possessed markedly lower fitness than the wild-type viruses. PMID:22114336

Methods for assessing the stability of slopes during earthquakes-A retrospective

USGS Publications Warehouse

Jibson, R.W.

2011-01-01

During the twentieth century, several methods to assess the stability of slopes during earthquakes were developed. Pseudostatic analysis was the earliest method; it involved simply adding a permanent body force representing the earthquake shaking to a static limit-equilibrium analysis. Stress-deformation analysis, a later development, involved much more complex modeling of slopes using a mesh in which the internal stresses and strains within elements are computed based on the applied external loads, including gravity and seismic loads. Stress-deformation analysis provided the most realistic model of slope behavior, but it is very complex and requires a high density of high-quality soil-property data as well as an accurate model of soil behavior. In 1965, Newmark developed a method that effectively bridges the gap between these two types of analysis. His sliding-block model is easy to apply and provides a useful index of co-seismic slope performance. Subsequent modifications to sliding-block analysis have made it applicable to a wider range of landslide types. Sliding-block analysis provides perhaps the greatest utility of all the types of analysis. It is far easier to apply than stress-deformation analysis, and it yields much more useful information than does pseudostatic analysis. ?? 2010.

Alternative solution model for the ternary carbonate system CaCO3 - MgCO3 - FeCO3 - II. Calibration of a combined ordering model and mixing model

USGS Publications Warehouse

McSwiggen, P.L.

1993-01-01

Earlier attempts at solution models for the ternary carbonate system have been unable to adequately accommodate the cation ordering which occurs in some of the carbonate phases. The carbonate solution model of this study combines a Margules type of interaction model with a Bragg-Williams type of ordering model. The ordering model determines the equilibrium state of order for a crystal, from which the cation distribution within the lattice can be obtained. The interaction model addresses the effect that mixing different cation species within a given cation layer has on the total free energy of the system. An ordering model was derived, based on the Bragg-Williams approach; it is applicable to ternary systems involving three cations substituting on two sites, and contains three ordering energy parameters (WCaMg, WCaFe, and WCaMgFe). The solution model of this study involves six Margules-type interaction parameters (W12, W21, W13, W31, W23, and W32). Values for the two sets of energy parameters were calculated from experimental data and from compositional relationships in natural assemblages. ?? 1993 Springer-Verlag.

Glucose, epithelium, and enteric nervous system: dialogue in the dark.

PubMed

Pfannkuche, H; Gäbel, G

2009-06-01

The gastrointestinal epithelium is in close contact with the various components of the chymus, including nutrients, bacteria and toxins. The epithelial barrier has to decide which components are effectively absorbed and which components are extruded. In the small intestine, a nutrient like glucose is mainly absorbed by the sodium linked glucose cotransporter 1 (SGLT1) and the glucose transporter 2 (GLUT2). The expression and activity of both transport proteins is directly linked to the amount of intraluminal glucose. Besides the direct interaction between glucose and the enterocytes, glucose also stimulates different sensory mechanisms within the intestinal wall. The most important types of cells involved in the sensing of intraluminal contents are enteroendocrine cells and neurones of the enteric nervous system. Regarding glucosensing, a distinct type of enteroendocrine cells, the enterochromaffine (EC) cells are involved. Excitation of EC cells by intraluminal glucose results in the release of serotonin (5-HT), which modulates epithelial functions and activates enteric secretomotorneurones. Enteric neurones are not only activated by 5-HT, but also directly by glucose. The activation of different cell types and the subsequent crosstalk between these cells may trigger appropriate absorptive and secretory processes within the intestine.

Parenting goals: predictors of parent involvement in disease management of children with type 1 diabetes.

PubMed

Robinson, Elizabeth M; Iannotti, Ronald J; Schneider, Stefan; Nansel, Tonja R; Haynie, Denise L; Sobel, Douglas O

2011-09-01

The purpose of this study was to develop a measure of diabetes-specific parenting goals for parents of children with type 1 diabetes and to examine whether parenting goals predict a change in parenting involvement in disease management. An independent sample of primary caretakers of 87 children aged 10 to 16 years with type 1 diabetes completed the measure of parenting goals (diabetes-specific and general goals); both parent and child completed measures of parent responsibility for diabetes management at baseline and 6 months. Parents ranked diabetes-specific parenting goals as more important than general parenting goals, and rankings were moderately stable over time. Parenting goals were related to parent responsibility for diabetes management. The relative ranking of diabetes-specific parenting goals predicted changes in parent involvement over 6 months, with baseline ranking of goals predicting more parental involvement at follow-up. Parenting goals may play an important role in family management of type 1 diabetes.

Neural processing of recollection, familiarity and priming at encoding: evidence from a forced-choice recognition paradigm.

PubMed

Meng, Yingfang; Ye, Xiaohong; Gonsalves, Brian D

2014-10-17

The distinction between neural mechanisms of explicit and implicit expressions of memory has been well studied at the retrieval stage, but less at encoding. In addition, dissociations obtained in many studies are complicated by methodological difficulties in obtaining process-pure measures of different types of memory. In this experiment, we applied a subsequent memory paradigm and a two-stage forced-choice recognition test to classify study ERP data into four categories: subsequent remembered (later retrieved accompanied by detailed information), subsequent known (later retrieved accompanied by a feeling of familiarity), subsequent primed (later retrieved without conscious awareness) and subsequent forgotten (not retrieved). Differences in subsequent memory effects (DM effects) were measured by comparing ERP waveform associated with later memory based on recollection, familiarity or priming with ERP waveform for later forgotten items. The recollection DM effect involved a robust sustained (onset at 300 ms) prefrontal positive-going DM effect which was right-lateralized, and a later (onset at 800 ms) occipital negative-going DM effect. Familiarity involved an earlier (300-400 ms) prefrontal positive-going DM effect and a later (500-600 ms) parietal positive-going DM effect. Priming involved a negative-going DM effect which onset at 600 ms, mainly distributed over anterior brain sites. These results revealed a sequence of components that represented cognitive processes underlying the encoding of verbal information into episodic memory, and separately supported later remembering, knowing and priming. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Charge-induced fluctuation forces in graphitic nanostructures

DOE PAGES

Drosdoff, D.; Bondarev, Igor V.; Widom, Allan; ...

2016-01-21

Charge fluctuations in nanocircuits with capacitor components are shown to give rise to a novel type of long-ranged interaction, which coexist with the regular Casimir–van derWaals force. The developed theory distinguishes between thermal and quantum mechanical effects, and it is applied to capacitors involving graphene nanostructures. The charge fluctuations mechanism is captured via the capacitance of the system with geometrical and quantum mechanical components. The dependence on the distance separation, temperature, size, and response properties of the system shows that this type of force can have a comparable and even dominant effect to the Casimir interaction. Lastly, our results stronglymore » indicate that fluctuation-induced interactions due to various thermodynamic quantities can have important thermal and quantum mechanical contributions at the microscale and the nanoscale.« less

Paramagnetic defects in electron-irradiated yttria-stabilized zirconia: Effect of yttria content

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

Costantini, Jean-Marc; Beuneu, Francois; Morrison-Smith, Sarah E.

2011-12-20

We have studied the effect of the yttria content on the paramagnetic centres in electron-irradiated yttria-stabilized zirconia (ZrO2: Y3+) or YSZ. Single crystals with 9.5 mol% or 18 mol% Y2O3 were irradiated with electrons of 1.0, 1.5, 2.0 and 2.5 MeV. The paramagnetic centre production was studied by X-band EPR spectroscopy. The same paramagnetic centres were identified for both chemical compositions, namely two electron centres, i.e. i) F+-type centres (involving singly ionized oxygen vacancies), and ii) so-called T centres (Zr3+ in a trigonal symmetry site), and hole-centres. A strong effect is observed on the production of hole-centres which are stronglymore » enhanced when doubling the yttria content. However, no striking effect is found on the electron centres (except the enhancement of an extra line associated to the F+-type centres). It is concluded that hole-centres are produced by inelastic interactions, whereas F+-type centres are produced by elastic collisions with no effect of the yttria content on the defect production rate. In the latter case, the threshold displacement energy (Ed) of oxygen is estimated from the electron-energy dependence of the F+-type centre production rate, with no significant effect of the yttria content on Ed. An Ed value larger than 120 eV is found. Accordingly, classical molecular dynamics (MD) simulations with a Buckingham-type potential show that Ed values for Y and O are likely to be in excess of 200 eV. It is concluded that F+-type centres might be actually oxygen divacancies (F2+-type centres). Due to the difficulty in displacing O or Y atoms, the radiation-induced defects may alternatively be a result of Zr atom displacements for Ed = 80 ± 1 eV with subsequent defect re-arrangement.« less

Do all types of restructuring threaten employees' well-being? An exploratory study.

PubMed

Widerszal-Bazyl, Maria; Mockałło, Zofia

2015-01-01

Most research on the negative impact of restructuring on employees' health considers restructuring involving personnel reduction. The aim of this study was to explore the assumption that the type of restructuring, business expansion versus restructuring not involving expansion (only reductions and/or change of ownership), influences its psychological responses: appraisal of the change, psychosocial working conditions and well-being after the change. The study was carried out among 857 employees that experienced restructuring in 2009 and/or 2010 and 538 employees from companies not restructured at that time. The main variables, i.e., assessment of change in terms of personal benefits and losses, psychosocial job characteristics and well-being were measured using a questionnaire developed in "The psychological health and well-being in restructuring: key effects and mechanisms" project (PSYRES). It was found that the employees who experienced business expansion in comparison to those who experienced exclusively change of ownership had a higher appraisal of change, while those who experienced restructuring not involving business expansion did not differ from those who experienced change of ownership. As far as psychosocial working conditions are concerned, those employees who experienced exclusively business expansion did not differ from those in the not restructured companies (except for quantitative demands that were higher), while most psychosocial working conditions of the employees who experienced restructuring not involving expansion were poorer than in the not restructured companies. Also, well-being measures of the employees who experienced exclusively business expansion did not differ from those in the not restructured companies (except for innovative behavior that was even higher), while well-being measure of those who experienced restructuring not involving expansion was poorer than of those in the not restructured companies. Restructuring involving exclusively business expansion is not a threat to psychosocial job characteristics (except for quantitative demands) or to employees' well-being. Therefore, the type of restructuring should be taken into account when the restructuring--psychological health relationship is discussed. This work is available in Open Access model and licensed under a CC BY-NC 3.0 PL license.

Computational Modeling of Molecular Effects of Mutations Causing Snyder-Robinson Syndrome

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Zhe; Teng, Shaolei; Alexov, Emil

2009-11-01

Snyder-Robinson syndrome is an X-linked mental retardation disorder disease. The disease is associated with defects in a particular biomolecule, the spermine synthase (SMS) protein. Specifically, three missense mutations, G56S, I150T and V132G in SMS were identified to cause the disease, but molecular mechanism of their effect is unknown. We apply single-point energy calculations, molecular dynamics simulations and pKa calculations to reveal the effects of these mutations on SMS's stability, flexibility and interactions. It is demonstrated that even saddle changes as very conservative mutations can significantly affect wild type properties of SMS protein. While the mutations do not involve ionizable groups, still slight changes in the protonation of neighboring amino acids are suggested by the computational protocol. The dynamics of SMS was also affected by the mutations resulting in larger structural fluctuations in the mutant protein compared to the wild type. At the same time, the effect on SMS's stability was found to depend on the location of the mutation site with respect to the surface of the protein. Our investigation suggests that the disease is caused by diverse molecular mechanisms depending on the site of mutation and amino acid type substitution.

Role of arsenic exposure in adipose tissue dysfunction and its possible implication in diabetes pathophysiology.

PubMed

Renu, Kaviyarasi; Madhyastha, Harishkumar; Madhyastha, Radha; Maruyama, Masugi; Arunachlam, Sankarganesh; V G, Abilash

2018-03-01

Exposure to arsenic in drinking water can stimulate a diverse number of diseases that originate from impaired lipid metabolism in adipose and glucose metabolism, leading to insulin resistance. Arsenic inhibits differentiation of adipocyte and mediates insulin resistance with diminutive information on arsenicosis on lipid storage and lipolysis. This review focused on different mechanisms and pathways involved in adipogenesis and lipolysis in adipose tissue during arsenic-induced diabetes. Though arsenic is known to cause type2 diabetes through different mechanisms, the role of adipose tissue in causing type2 diabetes is still unclear. With the existing literature, this review exhibits the effect of arsenic on adipose tissue and its signalling events such as SIRT3- FOXO3a signalling pathway, Ras -MAP -AP-1 cascade, PI(3)-K-Akt pathway, endoplasmic reticulum stress protein, C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP10) and GPCR pathway with role of adipokines. There is a need to elucidate the different types of adipokines which are involved in arsenic-induced diabetes. The exhibited information brings to light that arsenic has negative effects on a white adipose tissue (WAT) by decreasing adipogenesis and enhancing lipolysis. Some of the epidemiological studies show that arsenic would causes obesity. Few studies indicate that arsenic might induces lipodystrophy condition. Further research is needed to evaluate the mechanistic link between arsenic and adipose tissue dysfunction which leads to insulin resistance. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The effects of different types of crop straw on the transformation of pentachlorophenol in flooded paddy soil.

PubMed

Lin, Jiajiang; Meng, Jun; He, Yan; Xu, Jianming; Chen, Zuliang; Brookes, Philip C

2018-02-01

The incorporation of various types of crop straw to agricultural soils has long been practiced to improve soil fertility. However, the effects of crop straw on the fate of organo-chlorine pesticides in flooded paddy soils are not well understood. The dechlorination of pentachlorophenol (PCP) in four vertical profiles (0-10, 10-20, 20-30, 30-50 mm depth) of two flooded paddy soils, a Plinthudult (Soil 1) and a Tropudult (Soil 2) was investigated following the application of four crop straws (rice, wheat, rape and Chinese milk vetch) to them. In all treatments, PCP dechlorination decreased with increasing soil depth. In the crop straw treatments, PCP was almost completely dechlorinated within 60 days, and rapidly transformed to 2,3,4,5-tetrachlorophenol, and further to 3,4,5-trichlorophenol. Further dechlorination of 3,4,5-trichlorophenol also occurred in all treatments except for the rape straw. It is possible that the NH 4 + and NO 3 - derived from the straw are responsible for the inhibition of the 3,4,5-trichlorophenol dechlorination. The reduction of Fe (III) and SO 4 2- increased following application of the crop straws. The RDA analysis indicated that the Fe (III) reducing bacteria might be involved in the ortho-dechlorination, while SO 4 2- reducing bacteria were involved in para- and meta-dechlorination of PCP. The complete detoxification of PCP depended upon both the crop straw type and soil properties. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Pre- and postsynaptic type-1 cannabinoid receptors control the alterations of glutamate transmission in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis.

PubMed

Musella, Alessandra; Sepman, Helena; Mandolesi, Georgia; Gentile, Antonietta; Fresegna, Diego; Haji, Nabila; Conrad, Andrea; Lutz, Beat; Maccarrone, Mauro; Centonze, Diego

2014-04-01

Type-1 cannabinoid receptors (CB1R) are important regulators of the neurodegenerative damage in multiple sclerosis (MS) and in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). In GABAergic striatal neurons, CB1R stimulation exerts protective effects by limiting inflammation-induced potentiation of glutamate-mediated spontaneous excitatory postsynaptic currents (sEPSCs). Here we show that CB1R located on GABAergic or on glutamatergic neurons are differentially involved in the pre- and postsynaptic alterations of sEPSCs caused by EAE in the striatum. After induction of EAE, mice selectively lacking CB1R on GABAergic neurons (GABA-CB1R-KO) showed exacerbated alterations of sEPSC duration in GABAergic medium spiny neurons (MSN). On the other hand, EAE-induced alterations of corticostriatal sEPSC frequency were exacerbated only in mice lacking CB1R on glutamatergic neurons (Glu-CB1R-KO), indicating that this subset of receptors controls the effects of inflammation on glutamate release. While EAE severity was enhanced in whole CB1R-KO mice, GABA-CB1R-KO and Glu-CB1R-KO mice had similar motor deficits as the respective wild-type (WT) counterparts. Our results provide further evidence that CB1R are involved in EAE pathophysiology, and suggest that both pre- and postsynaptic alterations of glutamate transmission are important to drive excitotoxic neurodegeneration typical of this disorder. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Early parental loss and depression history: associations with recent life stress in major depressive disorder.

PubMed

Slavich, George M; Monroe, Scott M; Gotlib, Ian H

2011-09-01

Although exposure to early adversity and prior experiences with depression have both been associated with lower levels of precipitating life stress in depression, it is unclear whether these stress sensitization effects are similar for all types of stress or whether they are specific to stressors that may be particularly depressogenic, such as those involving interpersonal loss. To investigate this issue, we administered structured, interview-based measures of early adversity, depression history, and recent life stress to one hundred adults who were diagnosed with major depressive disorder. As predicted, individuals who experienced early parental loss or prolonged separation (i.e., lasting one year or longer) and persons with more lifetime episodes of depression became depressed following lower levels of life stress occurring in the etiologically-central time period of three months prior to onset of depression. Importantly, however, additional analyses revealed that these effects were unique to stressors involving interpersonal loss. These data highlight potential stressor-specific effects in stress sensitization and demonstrate for the first time that individuals exposed to early parental loss or separation, and persons with greater histories of MDD, may be selectively sensitized to stressors involving interpersonal loss. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Involvement with Local Television News: Cognitive and Emotional Dimensions.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Perse, Elizabeth M.

1990-01-01

Examines the validity of audience involvement in the context of local television news by testing the relationships among (1) strength of news viewing motivation and involvement intensity; (2) type of news viewing motivation and involvement orientation; and (3) cognitive and emotional involvement. Finds that audience involvement during message…

Personal and Relationship Challenges of Adults With Type 1 Diabetes

PubMed Central

Trief, Paula M.; Sandberg, Jonathan G.; Dimmock, Jacqueline A.; Forken, Patricia J.; Weinstock, Ruth S.

2013-01-01

OBJECTIVE Little is known about the psychosocial challenges of adults living with type 1 diabetes or its impact on partner relationships. This qualitative study was undertaken to gain better understanding of these issues. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS Four focus groups were held, two with adult type 1 diabetic patients (n = 16) and two with partners (n = 14). Two broad questions were posed: “What are the emotional and interpersonal challenges you have experienced because you have (your partner has) type 1 diabetes?” and “How does the fact that you have (your partner has) type 1 diabetes affect your relationship with your partner, positively and/or negatively?” Sessions were recorded and transcribed, and analyzed by a team of four researchers, using constant comparative methods to identify core domains and concepts. RESULTS Four main domains were identified: 1) impact of diabetes on the relationship, including level of partner involvement, emotional impact of diabetes on the relationship, and concerns about child-rearing; 2) understanding the impact of hypoglycemia; 3) stress of potential complications; and 4) benefits of technology. Themes suggest that, although partner involvement varies (very little to significant), there exists significant anxiety about hypoglycemia and future complications and sources of conflict that may increase relationship stress. Partner support is highly valued, and technology has a positive influence. CONCLUSIONS Adults with type 1 diabetes face unique emotional and interpersonal challenges. Future research should focus on gaining a better understanding of how they cope and the effect of psychosocial stressors and coping on adherence, quality of life, and glycemic control. PMID:23474590

Formation of wood secondary cell wall may involve two type cellulose synthase complexes in Populus.

PubMed

Xi, Wang; Song, Dongliang; Sun, Jiayan; Shen, Junhui; Li, Laigeng

2017-03-01

Cellulose biosynthesis is mediated by cellulose synthases (CesAs), which constitute into rosette-like cellulose synthase complexe (CSC) on the plasma membrane. Two types of CSCs in Arabidopsis are believed to be involved in cellulose synthesis in the primary cell wall and secondary cell walls, respectively. In this work, we found that the two type CSCs participated cellulose biosynthesis in differentiating xylem cells undergoing secondary cell wall thickening in Populus. During the cell wall thickening process, expression of one type CSC genes increased while expression of the other type CSC genes decreased. Suppression of different type CSC genes both affected the wall-thickening and disrupted the multilaminar structure of the secondary cell walls. When CesA7A was suppressed, crystalline cellulose content was reduced, which, however, showed an increase when CesA3D was suppressed. The CesA suppression also affected cellulose digestibility of the wood cell walls. The results suggest that two type CSCs are involved in coordinating the cellulose biosynthesis in formation of the multilaminar structure in Populus wood secondary cell walls.

Picrotoxin-induced seizures modified by morphine and opiate antagonists.

PubMed

Thomas, J; Nores, W L; Kenigs, V; Olson, G A; Olson, R D

1993-07-01

The effects of naloxone, Tyr-MIF-1, and MIF-1 on morphine-mediated changes in susceptibility to picrotoxin-induced seizures were studied. Rats were pretreated with naloxone, MIF-1, Tyr-MIF-1, or saline. At 15-min intervals, they received a second pretreatment of morphine or saline and then were tested for seizures following a convulsant dose of picrotoxin. Several parameters of specific categories of seizures were scored. Morphine increased the number of focal seizure episodes, duration of postseizure akinesis, and incidence of generalized clonic seizures. Naloxone tended to block the morphine-mediated changes in susceptibility. Tyr-MIF-1 had effects similar to naloxone on duration of postseizure immobility but tended to potentiate the effects of morphine on focal seizure episodes. The effects of morphine and the opiate antagonists on focal seizure episodes and postseizure duration suggest the general involvement of several types of opiate receptors in these picrotoxin-induced behaviors. However, the observation of antagonistic effects for Tyr-MIF-1 on immobility but agonistic effects for focal seizures suggests that the type of effect exerted by opiate agents may depend upon other neuronal variables.

Possibilities for LWIR detectors using MBE-grown Si(/Si(1-x)Ge(x) structures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hauenstein, Robert J.; Miles, Richard H.; Young, Mary H.

1990-01-01

Traditionally, long wavelength infrared (LWIR) detection in Si-based structures has involved either extrinsic Si or Si/metal Schottky barrier devices. Molecular beam epitaxially (MBE) grown Si and Si/Si(1-x)Ge(x) heterostructures offer new possibilities for LWIR detection, including sensors based on intersubband transitions as well as improved conventional devices. The improvement in doping profile control of MBE in comparison with conventional chemical vapor deposited (CVD) Si films has resulted in the successful growth of extrinsic Si:Ga, blocked impurity-band conduction detectors. These structures exhibit a highly abrupt step change in dopant profile between detecting and blocking layers which is extremely difficult or impossible to achieve through conventional epitaxial growth techniques. Through alloying Si with Ge, Schottky barrier infrared detectors are possible, with barrier height values between those involving pure Si or Ge semiconducting materials alone. For both n-type and p-type structures, strain effects can split the band edges, thereby splitting the Schottky threshold and altering the spectral response. Measurements of photoresponse of n-type Au/Si(1-x)Ge(x) Schottky barriers demonstrate this effect. For intersubband multiquntum well (MQW) LWIR detection, Si(1-x)Ge(x)/Si detectors grown on Si substrates promise comparable absorption coefficients to that of the Ga(Al)As system while in addition offering the fundamental advantage of response to normally incident light as well as the practical advantage of Si-compatibility. Researchers grew Si(1-x)Ge(x)/Si MQW structures aimed at sensitivity to IR in the 8 to 12 micron region and longer, guided by recent theoretical work. Preliminary measurements of n- and p-type Si(1-x)Ge(x)/Si MQW structures are given.

Human Papillomavirus Type 18 E6 Protein Binds the Cellular PDZ Protein TIP-2/GIPC, Which Is Involved in Transforming Growth Factor β Signaling and Triggers Its Degradation by the Proteasome

PubMed Central

Favre-Bonvin, Arnaud; Reynaud, Caroline; Kretz-Remy, Carole; Jalinot, Pierre

2005-01-01

Several viral proteins expressed by DNA or RNA transforming viruses have the particular property of binding via their C-terminal end to various cellular proteins with PDZ domains. This study is focused on the PDZ protein TIP-2/GIPC, which was originally identified in two-hybrid screens performed with two different baits: the human T-cell leukemia virus type 1 Tax oncoprotein and the regulator of G signaling RGS-GAIP. Further studies have shown that TIP-2/GIPC is also able to associate with the cytoplasmic domains of various transmembrane proteins. In this report we show that TIP-2/GIPC interacts with the E6 protein of human papillomavirus type 18 (HPV-18). This event triggers polyubiquitination and proteasome-mediated degradation of the cellular protein. In agreement with this observation, silencing of E6 by RNA interference in HeLa cells causes an increase in the intracellular TIP-2/GIPC level. This PDZ protein has been previously found to be involved in transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) signaling by favoring expression of the TGF-β type III receptor at the cell membrane. In line with this activity of TIP-2/GIPC, we observed that depletion of this protein in HeLa cells hampers induction of the Id3 gene by TGF-β treatment and also diminishes the antiproliferative effect of this cytokine. Conversely, silencing of E6 increases the expression of Id3 and blocks proliferation of HeLa cells. These results support the notion that HPV-18 E6 renders cells less sensitive to the cytostatic effect of TGF-β by lowering the intracellular amount of TIP-2/GIPC. PMID:15767424

The Roles and Mechanisms of Actions of Vitamin C in Bone: New Developments.

PubMed

Aghajanian, Patrick; Hall, Susan; Wongworawat, Montri D; Mohan, Subburaman

2015-11-01

Vitamin C is an important antioxidant and cofactor that is involved in the regulation of development, function, and maintenance of several cell types in the body. Deficiencies in vitamin C can lead to conditions such as scurvy, which, among other ailments, causes gingivia, bone pain, and impaired wound healing. This review examines the functional importance of vitamin C as it relates to the development and maintenance of bone tissues. Analysis of several epidemiological studies and genetic mouse models regarding the effect of vitamin C shows a positive effect on bone health. Overall, vitamin C exerts a positive effect on trabecular bone formation by influencing expression of bone matrix genes in osteoblasts. Recent studies on the molecular pathway for vitamin C actions that include direct effects of vitamin C on transcriptional regulation of target genes by influencing the activity of transcription factors and by epigenetic modification of key genes involved in skeletal development and maintenance are discussed. With an understanding of mechanisms involved in the uptake and metabolism of vitamin C and knowledge of precise molecular pathways for vitamin C actions in bone cells, it is possible that novel therapeutic strategies can be developed or existing therapies can be modified for the treatment of osteoporotic fractures. © 2015 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.

The Roles and Mechanisms of Actions of Vitamin C in Bone: New Developments

PubMed Central

Aghajanian, Patrick; Hall, Susan; Wongworawat, Montri D.; Mohan, Subburaman

2016-01-01

Vitamin C is an important antioxidant and cofactor which is involved in the regulation of development, function and maintenance of several cell types in the body. Deficiencies in vitamin C can lead to conditions such as scurvy, which, among other ailments, causes gingivia, bone pain and impaired wound healing. This review examines the functional importance of vitamin C as it relates to the development and maintenance of bone tissues. Analysis of several epidemiological studies and genetic mouse models regarding the effect of vitamin C shows a positive effect on bone health. Overall, vitamin C exerts a positive effect on trabecular bone formation by influencing expression of bone matrix genes in osteoblasts. Recent studies on the molecular pathway for vitamin C actions that include direct effects of vitamin C on transcriptional regulation of target genes by influencing the activity of transcription factors and by epigenetic modification of key genes involved in skeletal development and maintenance are discussed. With an understanding of mechanisms involved in the uptake and metabolism of vitamin C and knowledge of precise molecular pathways for vitamin C actions in bone cells, it is possible that novel therapeutic strategies can be developed or existing therapies can be modified for the treatment of osteoporotic fractures. PMID:26358868

Nonlinear interaction of near-planar TS waves and longitudinal vortices in boundary-layer transition

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Smith, F. T.

1988-01-01

The nonlinear interactions that evolve between a planar or nearly planar Tollmien-Schlichting (TS) wave and the associated longitudinal vortices are considered theoretically for a boundary layer at high Reynolds number. The vortex flow is either induced by the TS nonlinear forcing or is input upstream, and similarly for the nonlinear wave development. Three major kinds of nonlinear spatial evolution, Types 1-3, are found. Each can start from secondary instability and then become nonlinear, Type 1 proving to be relatively benign but able to act as a pre-cursor to the Types 2, 3 which turn out to be very powerful nonlinear interactions. Type 2 involves faster stream-wise dependence and leads to a finite-distance blow-up in the amplitudes, which then triggers the full nonlinear 3-D triple-deck response, thus entirely altering the mean-flow profile locally. In contrast, Type 3 involves slower streamwise dependence but a faster spanwise response, with a small TS amplitude thereby causing an enhanced vortex effect which, again, is substantial enough to entirely alter the meanflow profile, on a more global scale. Streak-like formations in which there is localized concentration of streamwise vorticity and/or wave amplitude can appear, and certain of the nonlinear features also suggest by-pass processes for transition and significant changes in the flow structure downstream. The powerful nonlinear 3-D interactions 2, 3 are potentially very relevant to experimental findings in transition.

Effect of hindlimb suspension and clenbuterol treatment on polyamine levels in skeletal muscle

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Abukhalaf, Imad K.; von Deutsch, Daniel A.; Wineski, Lawrence E.; Silvestrov, Natalia A.; Abera, Saare A.; Sahlu, Sinafikish W.; Potter, David E.; Thierry-Palmer, M. (Principal Investigator)

2002-01-01

Polyamines are unbiquitous, naturally occurring small aliphatic, polycationic, endogenous compounds. They are involved in many cellular processes and may serve as secondary or tertiary messengers to hormonal regulation. The relationship of polyamines and skeletal muscle mass of adductor longus, extensor digitorum longus, and gastrocnemius under unloading (hindlimb suspension) conditions was investigated. Unloading significantly affected skeletal muscle polyamine levels in a fiber-type-specific fashion. Under loading conditions, clenbuterol treatment increased all polyamine levels, whereas under unloading conditions, only the spermidine levels were consistently increased. Unloading attenuated the anabolic effects of clenbuterol in predominately slow-twitch muscles (adductor longus), but had little impact on clenbuterol's action as a countermeasure in fast- twitch muscles such as the extensor digitorum longus. Spermidine appeared to be the primary polyamine involved in skeletal muscle atrophy/hypertrophy. Copyright 2002 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Proteases in Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus confer reduced susceptibility to lactoferricin B.

PubMed

Ulvatne, Hilde; Haukland, Hanne Husom; Samuelsen, Ørjan; Krämer, Manuela; Vorland, Lars H

2002-10-01

Lactoferricin B is a cationic antimicrobial peptide derived from the N-terminal part of bovine lactoferrin. The effect of bacterial proteases on the antibacterial activity of lactoferricin B towards Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus was investigated using various protease inhibitors and protease-deficient E. coli mutants. Sodium-EDTA, a metalloprotease inhibitor, was the most efficient inhibitors in both species, but combinations of sodium-EDTA with other types of protease inhibitor gave a synergic effect. The results indicate that several groups of proteases are involved in resistance to lactoferricin B in both E. coli and S. aureus. We also report that genetic inactivation of the heat shock-induced serine protease DegP increased the susceptibility to lactoferricin B in E. coli, suggesting that this protease, at least, is involved in reduced susceptibility to lactoferricin B.

Epidemiologic Approaches to Evaluating the Potential for Human Papillomavirus Type Replacement Postvaccination

PubMed Central

Tota, Joseph E.; Ramanakumar, Agnihotram V.; Jiang, Mengzhu; Dillner, Joakim; Walter, Stephen D.; Kaufman, Jay S.; Coutlée, François; Villa, Luisa L.; Franco, Eduardo L.

2013-01-01

Currently, 2 vaccines exist that prevent infection by the genotypes of human papillomavirus (HPV) responsible for approximately 70% of cervical cancer cases worldwide. Although vaccination is expected to reduce the prevalence of these HPV types, there is concern about the effect this could have on the distribution of other oncogenic types. According to basic ecological principles, if competition exists between ≥2 different HPV types for niche occupation during natural infection, elimination of 1 type may lead to an increase in other type(s). Here, we discuss this issue of “type replacement” and present different epidemiologic approaches for evaluation of HPV type competition. Briefly, these approaches involve: 1) calculation of the expected frequency of coinfection under independence between HPV types for comparison with observed frequency; 2) construction of hierarchical logistic regression models for each vaccine-targeted type; and 3) construction of Kaplan-Meier curves and Cox models to evaluate sequential acquisition and clearance of HPV types according to baseline HPV status. We also discuss a related issue concerning diagnostic artifacts arising when multiple HPV types are present in specific samples (due to the inability of broad-spectrum assays to detect certain types present in lower concentrations). This may result in an apparent increase in previously undetected types postvaccination. PMID:23660798

Presynaptic inhibition of transmitter release from rat sympathetic neurons by bradykinin.

PubMed

Edelbauer, Hannah; Lechner, Stefan G; Mayer, Martina; Scholze, Thomas; Boehm, Stefan

2005-06-01

Bradykinin is known to stimulate neurons in rat sympathetic ganglia and to enhance transmitter release from their axons by interfering with the autoinhibitory feedback, actions that involve protein kinase C. Here, bradykinin caused a transient increase in the release of previously incorporated [3H] noradrenaline from primary cultures of dissociated rat sympathetic neurons. When this effect was abolished by tetrodotoxin, bradykinin caused an inhibition of tritium overflow triggered by depolarizing K+ concentrations. This inhibition was additive to that caused by the alpha2-adrenergic agonist UK 14304, desensitized within 12 min, was insensitive to pertussis toxin, and was enhanced when protein kinase C was inactivated. The effect was half maximal at 4 nm and antagonized competitively by the B2 receptor antagonist Hoe 140. The cyclooxygenase inhibitor indomethacin and the angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor captopril did not alter the inhibition by bradykinin. The M-type K+ channel opener retigabine attenuated the secretagogue action of bradykinin, but left its inhibitory action unaltered. In whole-cell patch-clamp recordings, bradykinin reduced voltage-activated Ca2+ currents in a pertussis toxin-insensitive manner, and this action was additive to the inhibition by UK 14304. These results demonstrate that bradykinin inhibits noradrenaline release from rat sympathetic neurons via presynaptic B2 receptors. This effect does not involve cyclooxygenase products, M-type K+ channels, or protein kinase C, but rather an inhibition of voltage-gated Ca2+ channels.

Variation in Baiting Intensity Among CO2-Baited Traps Used to Collect Hematophagous Arthropods.

PubMed

Springer, Yuri P; Taylor, Jeffrey R; Travers, Patrick D

2015-01-01

Hematophagous arthropods transmit the etiological agents of numerous diseases and as a result are frequently the targets of sampling to characterize vector and pathogen populations. Arguably, the most commonly used sampling approach involves traps baited with carbon dioxide. We report results of a laboratory study in which the performance of carbon dioxide-baited traps was evaluated using measures of baiting intensity, the amount of carbon dioxide released per unit time during trap deployment. We evaluated the effects of trap design, carbon dioxide source, and wind speed on baiting intensity and documented significant effects of these factors on the length of sampling (time to baiting intensity = 0), maximum baiting intensity, and variation in baiting intensity during experimental trials. Among the three dry ice-baited trap types evaluated, traps utilizing insulated beverage coolers as dry ice containers sampled for the longest period of time, had the lowest maximum but most consistent baiting intensity within trials and were least sensitive to effects of wind speed and dry ice form (block vs. pellet) on baiting intensity. Results of trials involving traps baited with carbon dioxide released from pressurized cylinders suggested that this trap type had performance comparable to dry ice-baited insulated cooler traps but at considerably higher cost. © The Author 2015. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Entomological Society of America.

Tachykinin receptors and the airways.

PubMed

Frossard, N; Advenier, C

1991-01-01

The tachykinins, substance P, neurokinin A and neurokinin B, belong to a structural family of peptides. In mammalian airways, substance P and neurokinin A are colocalized to afferent C-fibres. Substance P-containing fibres are close to bronchial epithelium, smooth muscle, mucus glands and blood vessels. Sensory neuropeptides may be released locally, possibly as a result of a local reflex, and produce bronchial obstruction through activation of specific receptors on these various tissues. Three types of tachykinin receptors, namely NK-1, NK-2 and NK-3 receptors, have been characterized by preferential activation by substance P, neurokinin A and neurokinin B respectively. NK-1 and NK-2 receptors were recently cloned. The determination of receptor types involved in the effects of tachykinins in the airways has been done with synthetic agonists and antagonists binding specifically to NK-1, NK-2 and NK-3 receptors. Although the existence of species differences, the conclusion that bronchial smooth muscle contraction is mainly related to activation of NK-2 receptors on bronchial smooth muscle cell has been drawn. The hypothesis of a NK-2 receptor subclassification has been proposed with NK-2A receptor subtype in the guinea-pig airways. Other effects in the airways are related to stimulation of NK-1 receptors on mucus cells, vessels, epithelium and inflammatory cells. A non-receptor-mediated mechanism is also involved in the effect of substance P on inflammatory cells and mast cells.

Efficacy of Pharmacist Based Diabetes Educational Interventions on Clinical Outcomes of Adults With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Network Meta-Analysis.

PubMed

Bukhsh, Allah; Khan, Tahir M; Lee, Shaun W H; Lee, Learn-Han; Chan, Kok-Gan; Goh, Bey-Hing

2018-01-01

Background: Comparative efficacy of different pharmacist based interventions on glycemic control of type 2 diabetes patients is unclear. This review aimed to evaluate and compare the efficacy of different pharmacist based interventions on clinical outcomes of type 2 diabetes patients. Methods: A systematic search was conducted across five databases from date of database inception to September 2017. All randomized clinical trials evaluating the efficacy of pharmacist based interventions on type 2 diabetes patients were included for network meta-analysis (NMA). The protocol is available with PROSPERO (CRD42017078854). Results: A total of 43 studies, involving 6259 type 2 diabetes patients, were included. NMA demonstrated that all interventions significantly lowered glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels compared to usual care, but there was no statistical evidence from this study that one intervention was significantly better than the other for reducing HbA1c levels. Pharmacist based diabetes education plus pharmaceutical care showed maximum efficacy for reducing HbA1c levels [-0.86, 95% CI -0.983, -0.727; p < 0.001]. Pharmacist based diabetes education plus pharmaceutical care was observed to be statistically significant in lowering levels of systolic blood pressure [-4.94; 95%CI -8.65, -1.23] and triglycerides levels [-0.26, 95%CI -0.51, -0.01], as compared to the interventions which involved diabetes education by pharmacist, and for body mass index (BMI) [-0.57; 95%CI -1.25, -0.12] in comparison to diabetes education by health care team involving pharmacist as member. Conclusion: The findings of this review demonstrate that all interventions had a significantly positive effect on HbA1c, but there was no statistical evidence from this study that one intervention was significantly better than the other for achieving glycemic control.Pharmacist based diabetes education plus pharmaceutical care showed maximum efficacy on HbA1c and rest of the clinical outcomes.

Regulation of Alternative Macrophage Activation in the Liver following Acetaminophen Intoxication by Stem Cell-Derived Tyrosine Kinase

PubMed Central

Gardner, Carol R.; Hankey, Pamela; Mishin, Vladimir; Francis, Mary; Yu, Shan; Laskin, Jeffrey D.; Laskin, Debra L.

2012-01-01

Stem cell-derived tyrosine kinase (STK) is a transmembrane receptor reported to play a role in macrophage switching from a classically activated/proinflammatory phenotype to an alternatively activated/wound repair phenotype. In the present studies, STK−/− mice were used to assess the role of STK in acetaminophen-induced hepatotoxicity as evidence suggests that the pathogenic process involves both of these macrophage subpopulations. In wild type mice, centrilobular hepatic necrosis and increases in serum transaminase levels were observed within 6 hr of acetaminophen administration (300 mg/kg, i.p.). Loss of STK resulted in a significant increase in sensitivity of mice to the hepatotoxic effects of acetaminophen and increased mortality, effects independent of its metabolism. This was associated with reduced levels of hepatic glutathione, rapid upregulation of inducible nitric oxide synthase, and prolonged induction of heme oxygenase-1, suggesting excessive oxidative stress in STK−/− mice. F4/80, a marker of mature macrophages, was highly expressed on subpopulations of Kupffer cells in livers of wild type, but not STK −/− mice. Whereas F4/80+ macrophages rapidly declined in the livers of wild type mice following acetaminophen intoxication, they increased in STK−/− mice. In wild type mice hepatic expression of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-1β, and IL-12, products of classically activated macrophages, increased after acetaminophen administration. Monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (MCP-1) and its receptor, CCR2, as well as IL-10, mediators involved in recruiting and activating anti-inflammatory/wound repair macrophages, also increased in wild type mice after acetaminophen. Loss of STK blunted the effects of acetaminophen on expression of TNFα, IL-1β, IL-12, MCP-1 and CCR2, while expression of IL-10 increased. Hepatic expression of CX3CL1, and its receptor, CX3CR1 also increased in STK−/− mice treated with acetaminophen. These data demonstrate that STK plays a role in regulating macrophage recruitment and activation in the liver following acetaminophen administration, and in hepatotoxicity. PMID:22575169

Different Effects of Cognitive and Non-exercise Physical Leisure Activities on Cognitive Function by Age in Elderly Korean Individuals

PubMed Central

Jung, Mi Sook; Kim, Hyunli; Lee, Yeji; Kim, Mijung; Chung, Eunyoung

2017-01-01

Objectives We aimed to examine the effects of various leisure activities on cognitive impairment in young-old (aged 65–74 years) and old-old (aged ≥ 75 years) adults. Methods In total, 10,279 elderly Korean individuals from the 2014 Korean National Survey on Older Adults’ cohort were enrolled in our study. Cognitive impairment was assessed using the standardized score of the Mini-Mental State Examination for Dementia Screening, whereas leisure activities were recorded via self-reporting of the extent and type of leisure activity the subjects involved in over the past year. Multivariate logistic regression was used to assess the effect of leisure activities on cognitive impairment, while controlling for potential covariates. Results The subjects were more likely to participate in cognitive activities than in non-exercise physical activities. After controlling for selected covariates, involvement in cognitive activities was found to be a significant predictor of cognitive impairment in both the groups, whereas involvement in non-exercise physical activities was not a predictor of cognitive impairment in individuals aged ≥ 75 years. Moreover, depressive symptoms, rural residence, and hearing difficulties were common predictors of cognitive impairment among elderly-Korean-individuals. Conclusion Leisure activity involvement may help delay cognitive impairment, which is often concomitant with aging. Hence, an early intervention service may significantly benefit both young-old and old-old individuals. PMID:29164042

Different Effects of Cognitive and Non-exercise Physical Leisure Activities on Cognitive Function by Age in Elderly Korean Individuals.

PubMed

Jung, Mi Sook; Kim, Hyunli; Lee, Yeji; Kim, Mijung; Chung, Eunyoung

2017-10-01

We aimed to examine the effects of various leisure activities on cognitive impairment in young-old (aged 65-74 years) and old-old (aged ≥ 75 years) adults. In total, 10,279 elderly Korean individuals from the 2014 Korean National Survey on Older Adults' cohort were enrolled in our study. Cognitive impairment was assessed using the standardized score of the Mini-Mental State Examination for Dementia Screening, whereas leisure activities were recorded via self-reporting of the extent and type of leisure activity the subjects involved in over the past year. Multivariate logistic regression was used to assess the effect of leisure activities on cognitive impairment, while controlling for potential covariates. The subjects were more likely to participate in cognitive activities than in non-exercise physical activities. After controlling for selected covariates, involvement in cognitive activities was found to be a significant predictor of cognitive impairment in both the groups, whereas involvement in non-exercise physical activities was not a predictor of cognitive impairment in individuals aged ≥ 75 years. Moreover, depressive symptoms, rural residence, and hearing difficulties were common predictors of cognitive impairment among elderly-Korean-individuals. Leisure activity involvement may help delay cognitive impairment, which is often concomitant with aging. Hence, an early intervention service may significantly benefit both young-old and old-old individuals.

Telmisartan protects against diabetic vascular complications in a mouse model of obesity and type 2 diabetes, partially through peroxisome proliferator activated receptor-{gamma}-dependent activity

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

Toyama, Kensuke; Nakamura, Taishi; Kataoka, Keiichiro

2011-07-08

Highlights: {yields} Telmisartan, an angiotensin receptor blocker, acts as a partial PPAR{gamma} agonist. {yields} The protective effects of telmisartan against diabetic vascular injury were associated with attenuation of vascular NF{kappa}B activation and TNF {alpha}. {yields} PPAR{gamma} activity of telmisartan was involved in the normalization of vascular PPAR{gamma} downregulation in diabetic mice. {yields} We provided the first evidence indicating that PPAR{gamma} activity of telmisartan contributed to the protective effects of telmisartan against diabetic vascular complication. -- Abstract: Experimental and clinical data support the notion that peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor {gamma} (PPAR{gamma}) activation is associated with anti-atherosclerosis as well as anti-diabetic effect. Telmisartan,more » an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB), acts as a partial PPAR{gamma} agonist. We hypothesized that telmisartan protects against diabetic vascular complications, through PPAR{gamma} activation. We compared the effects of telmisartan, telmisartan combined with GW9662 (a PPAR{gamma} antagonist), and losartan with no PPAR{gamma} activity on vascular injury in obese type 2 diabetic db/db mice. Compared to losartan, telmisartan significantly ameliorated vascular endothelial dysfunction, downregulation of phospho-eNOS, and coronary arterial remodeling in db/db mice. More vascular protective effects of telmisartan than losartan were associated with greater anti-inflammatory effects of telmisartan, as shown by attenuation of vascular nuclear factor kappa B (NF{kappa}B) activation and tumor necrosis factor {alpha}. Coadministration of GW9662 with telmisartan abolished the above mentioned greater protective effects of telmisartan against vascular injury than losartan in db/db mice. Thus, PPAR{gamma} activity appears to be involved in the vascular protective effects of telmisartan in db/db mice. Moreover, telmisartan, but not losartan, prevented the downregulation of vascular PPAR{gamma} in db/db mice and this effect of telmisartan was cancelled by the coadministration of GW9662. Our data provided the first evidence indicating that PPAR{gamma} activity of telmisartan contributed to the protective effects of telmisartan against diabetic vascular complication. PPAR{gamma} activity of telmisartan was involved in the normalization of vascular PPAR{gamma} downregulation in diabetic mice. Thus, telmisartan seems to exert vascular protective effects in hypertensive patients with diabetes.« less