f1-6external immunohistochemical quality: Topics by Science.gov

Sample records for f1-6external immunohistochemical quality

Immunohistochemical analysis of S6K1 and S6K2 localization in human breast tumors.

PubMed

Filonenko, Valeriy V; Tytarenko, Ruslana; Azatjan, Sergey K; Savinska, Lilya O; Gaydar, Yuriy A; Gout, Ivan T; Usenko, Vasiliy S; Lyzogubov, Valeriy V

2004-12-01

To perform an immunohistochemical analysis of human breast adenomas and adenocarcinomas as well as normal breast tissues in respect of S6 ribosomal protein kinase (S6K) expression and localization in normal and transformed cells. The expression level and localization of S6K have been detected in formalin fixed, paraffin embedded sections of normal human breast tissues, adenomas and adenocarcinomas with different grade of differentiation. Immunohistochemical detection of S6K1 and S6K2 in normal human breast tissues and breast tumors were performed using specific monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies against S6K1 and S6K2 with following semiquantitative analysis. The increase of S6K content in the cytoplasm of epithelial cells in benign and malignant tumors has been detected. Nuclear accumulation of S6K1 and to a greater extend S6K2 have been found in breast adenocarcinomas. About 80% of breast adenocarcinomas cases revealed S6K2 nuclear staining comparing to normal tissues. In 31% of cases more then 50% of cancer cells had strong nuclear staining. Accumulation of S6K1 in the nucleus of neoplastic cells has been demonstrated in 25% of cases. Nuclear localization of S6K in the epithelial cells in normal breast tissues has not been detected. Immunohistochemical analysis of S6K1 and S6K2 expression in normal human breast tissues, benign and malignant breast tumors clearly indicates that both kinases are overexpressed in breast tumors. Semiquantitative analysis of peculiarities of S6K localization in normal tissues and tumors revealed that nucleoplasmic accumulation of S6K (especially S6K2) is a distinguishing feature of cancer cells.
Category 1 external quality assessment program for serum creatinine.

PubMed

González-Lao, Elisabet; Díaz-Garzón, Jorge; Corte, Zoraida; Ricós, Carmen; Perich, Carmen; Álvarez, Virtudes; Simón, Margarita; Minchinela, Joana; García-Lario, José Vicente; Boned, Beatriz; Biosca, Carmen; Cava, Fernando; Fernández-Fernández, Pilar; Fernández-Calle, Pilar

2017-03-01

The Commission of Analytical Quality and the Committee of External Quality Programs of Spanish Society of Laboratory Medicine (SEQC) in collaboration with the Dutch Foundation for the Quality organized the first national category 1 External Quality Assessment Programs (EQAP) pilot study. The aim is to evaluate the standardization of serum creatinine measurements in the Spanish laboratories through a category 1 external quality assurance program with commutable material and reference method assigned values. A total of 87 Spanish laboratories were involved in this program in 2015. Each day a sample control was measured by duplicate during 6 consecutive days. Percentage deviations and coefficients of variation obtained were compared with quality specifications derived from biological variation. A total of 1044 creatinine results were obtained. Laboratories were coded in 11 different method-traceability combinations. Only enzymatic methods get all results within the acceptability limits. To participate in a category 1 EQAP is a valuable tool to assess the standardization degree in our country; a big effort should be made to promote laboratories to change their procedures and to use enzymatic creatinine methods, in order to achieve a satisfactory standardization degree for this important analyte.
Characterization of Uterine Granular Cell Tumors in B6C3F1 Mice: A Histomorphologic, Immunohistochemical, and Ultrastructural Study

PubMed Central

Veit, A. C.; Painter, J. T.; Miller, R. A.; Hardisty, J. F.; Dixon, D.

2009-01-01

The granular cell tumor is most often a benign neoplasm of uncertain origin. Four uterine granular cell tumors in control and treated female B6C3F1 mice were identified in chronic studies at the National Toxicology Program. Two tumors occurred in untreated control animals and 2 in treated animals receiving different compounds. Tissue sections were evaluated histologically and stained with hematoxylin and eosin, periodic acid–Schiff with diastase resistance, Masson’s trichrome, toluidine blue, phosphotungstic acid–hematoxylin, and stained immunohistochemically with a panel of antibodies to muscle (desmin, alpha smooth muscle actin), neural (S-100, neuron specific enolase), epithelial (wide-spectrum cytokeratin), and macrophage (F4/80) markers. The main histomorphologic feature of tumor cells was the presence of abundant cytoplasmic eosinophilic granules that stained positive for periodic acid–Schiff with diastase resistance. Tumors varied in appearance and were comprised of sheets and nests of round to polygonal cells with distinct borders. Nuclei were hyperchromatic, pleomorphic, and centrally to eccentrically located and often contained single nucleoli. Occasional multinucleated giant cells were observed. Tumors were pale pink and homogeneous with trichrome stain and negative with toluidine blue. Three tumors had positive to weakly positive immunoreactivity for desmin, and 1 was positive for alpha smooth muscle actin. Expression of S-100, wide-spectrum cytokeratin, and neuron-specific enolase was negative for all tumors. Ultrastructurally, prominent electron-dense cytoplasmic granules were abundant and contained secondary lysosomes with heterogeneous lysosomal contents. The characteristics of these uterine granular cell tumors were suggestive of a myogenic origin. PMID:18725470
External bone marrow cytological examination quality assurance (EQAhem)--summary after 6 years in Poland.

PubMed

Lewandowski, Krzysztof; Kurpierz, Katarzyna; Sledzinska, Anna

2015-10-01

Bone marrow macroscopic examination remains one of the most difficult and subjective laboratory assessments in hematology. Only a few external quality assurance programs in the field are present worldwide. We have developed an external quality assurance program EQAhem that allows assessment of the whole process of bone marrow examination. The program participants assess blood and bone marrow smears from the patient, identify selected cells from photographs provided to them, and interpret the microscopic results. In this article, the results of the EQAhem program in Poland from 6 years are summarized. During this time, 62 labs were assessed in total, and positive results were achieved by 89.25 % labs, taking into account all tests. Correct responses with respect to the percentage of cell count were provided by ca. 77.5 % labs. Slightly worse results were obtained when megakaryocyte count and cell identification from photographs were tested. The worst results were obtained in case of dysplasia assessment and clinical interpretation of microscopic examination (54.1 and 58.6 % correct responses, respectively). EQAhem delivers precise information about the quality of bone marrow examinations performed in Poland and has a substantial educational value. We believe that after 6 years, EQAhem has significantly improved the quality of bone marrow microscopic examinations performed in Poland.
Upregulation of estrogen receptor expression in the uterus of ovariectomized B6C3F1 mice and Ishikawa cells treated with bromoethane

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

Aoyama, Hiroaki; Couse, John F.; Hewitt, Sylvia C.

2005-12-15

In a 2-year NTP bioassay, Bromoethane (BE) was found to induce endometrial neoplasms in the uterus of B6C3F1 mice [; ]. In women, hormonal influences, such as 'unopposed' estrogenic stimulus, have been implicated as important etiologic factors in uterine cancer. BE, however, does not affect the serum concentrations of sex hormones in female B6C3F1 mice [] and the mechanism of BE-induced uterine carcinogenesis still remains unclear. In the present study, we examined the estrogenic effects of BE on the uterus of ovariectomized B6C3F1 mice and on Ishikawa cells. Groups of 6 mice were given daily s.c. injections of 0, 100,more » 500 or 1000 mg BE/kg for 3 consecutive days. Mice treated with 17{beta}-estradiol served as positive controls. Mice were necropsied 24 h after the final injection, and uteri were weighed and examined histologically and immunohistochemically along with the vagina. Changes observed in the estrogen-treated mice included increased uterine weights, edema and inflammation of the endometrium, increased epithelial layers of the uterine and vaginal lumens and keratinization of the vaginal epithelium. In the BE-treated mice, no such changes occurred; however, immunohistochemical staining of the uterus revealed a significant increase in immunoexpression of the estrogen receptor alpha (ER{alpha}) in the two higher dose groups. Analysis of mRNA also showed slightly increased uterine ER{alpha} expression in these groups. Upregulated expression of ER{alpha} was confirmed in BE-treated Ishikawa cells, in which Western blotting analyses identified an intense signal at approximately 66 kDa, which is consistent with ER{alpha}. These data suggest that upregulated expression of ER{alpha} may be important in the induction of endometrial neoplasms in BE-treated mice.« less
External quality assurance of HER2 fluorescence in situ hybridisation testing: results of a UK NEQAS pilot scheme.

PubMed

Bartlett, John M S; Ibrahim, Merdol; Jasani, Bharat; Morgan, John M; Ellis, Ian; Kay, Elaine; Magee, Hilary; Barnett, Sarah; Miller, Keith

2007-07-01

Trastuzumab provides clinical benefit for advanced and early breast cancer patients whose tumours over-express or have gene amplification of the HER2 oncogene. The UK National External Quality Assessment Scheme (NEQAS) for immunohistochemical testing was established to assess and improve the quality of HER2 immunohistochemical testing. However, until recently, no provision was available for HER2 fluorescence in situ hybridisation (FISH) testing. A pilot scheme was set up to review the performance of FISH testing in clinical diagnostic laboratories. FISH was performed in 6 reference and 31 participating laboratories using a cell line panel with known HER2 status. Using results from reference laboratories as a criterion for acceptable performance, 60% of all results returned by participants were appropriate and 78% either appropriate or acceptable. However, 22.4% of results returned were deemed inappropriate, including 13 cases (4.2%) where a misdiagnosis would have been made had these been clinical specimens. The results of three consecutive runs show that both reference laboratories and a proportion of routine clinical diagnostic (about 25%) centres can consistently achieve acceptable quality control of HER2 testing. Data from a significant proportion of participating laboratories show that further steps are required, including those taken via review of performance under schemes such as NEQAS, to improve quality of HER2 testing by FISH in the "real world".
External quality assessment program for detection of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency in the Guangxi region.

PubMed

Tang, Juan; Zhou, Xiangyang; Liu, Xiaochun; Ning, Leping; Zhou, Weiya; He, Yi

2017-09-01

The aim of this study is to improve the quality of testing for glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency through evaluation and analysis of the laboratory tests for G6PD activity. External quality assessment (EQA) was carried out twice per year with five samples each from 2014 to 2016. Samples were used for quantitative and qualitative assays. Quantitative results were collected, qualitative results were determined with reference values, and information about methods, reagents and instruments from participating laboratories within the required time. Laboratory performance scores, coefficient of variation (CV), and the rates of false negative and positive results were calculated. As a result, a total of 2,834 cases of negative quality control (QC) samples and 2,451 cases of positive QC samples were assessed, where the rates of false negative and false positive results were 1.31% (37/2,834) and 1.34% (33/2,451), respectively. Quantitative results indicated an increasing trend in testing quality, which were consistent with conclusions based on the comparison of EQA full-score and acceptable ratio in six assessments. The 2nd assay in 2016 had the best full-score ratio of 68.9% (135/196) and best acceptable ratio of 84.2% (165/196). There was a decreasing trend in the average CV of six reagents produced in China, and the range of average CV increased to 14.6-23.6% in 2016. The average CV of low level and high level samples was 22.5% and 15.3%, respectively, demonstrating that samples with low G6PD activity have greater interlaboratory CV values. In conclusion, laboratories improved their testing quality and provided better diagnostic service for G6PD deficiency in areas with high incidence after participation in the EQA program in the Guangxi region.
26 CFR 1.280F-6 - Special rules and definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... purpose, e.g., commuting to work, is reported by X as income to the employee and is withheld upon by X... service before July 7, 2003, see § 1.280F-6T as in effect prior to July 7, 2003 (§ 1.280F-6T as contained... automobile under § 1.280F-6T as in effect prior to July 7, 2003 (pre-effective date vehicle): (i) Except as...
26 CFR 1.280F-6 - Special rules and definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... purpose, e.g., commuting to work, is reported by X as income to the employee and is withheld upon by X... service before July 7, 2003, see § 1.280F-6T as in effect prior to July 7, 2003 (§ 1.280F-6T as contained... automobile under § 1.280F-6T as in effect prior to July 7, 2003 (pre-effective date vehicle): (i) Except as...
26 CFR 1.280F-6 - Special rules and definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... purpose, e.g., commuting to work, is reported by X as income to the employee and is withheld upon by X... service before July 7, 2003, see § 1.280F-6T as in effect prior to July 7, 2003 (§ 1.280F-6T as contained... automobile under § 1.280F-6T as in effect prior to July 7, 2003 (pre-effective date vehicle): (i) Except as...
26 CFR 1.280F-6 - Special rules and definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... purpose, e.g., commuting to work, is reported by X as income to the employee and is withheld upon by X... service before July 7, 2003, see § 1.280F-6T as in effect prior to July 7, 2003 (§ 1.280F-6T as contained... automobile under § 1.280F-6T as in effect prior to July 7, 2003 (pre-effective date vehicle): (i) Except as...
Stepfamily Relationship Quality and Children's Internalizing and Externalizing Problems.

PubMed

Jensen, Todd M; Lippold, Melissa A; Mills-Koonce, Roger; Fosco, Gregory M

2017-03-07

The stepfamily literature is replete with between-group analyses by which youth residing in stepfamilies are compared to youth in other family structures across indicators of adjustment and well-being. Few longitudinal studies examine variation in stepfamily functioning to identify factors that promote the positive adjustment of stepchildren over time. Using a longitudinal sample of 191 stepchildren (56% female, mean age = 11.3 years), the current study examines the association between the relationship quality of three central stepfamily dyads (stepparent-child, parent-child, and stepcouple) and children's internalizing and externalizing problems concurrently and over time. Results from path analyses indicate that higher levels of parent-child affective quality are associated with lower levels of children's concurrent internalizing and externalizing problems at Wave 1. Higher levels of stepparent-child affective quality are associated with decreases in children's internalizing and externalizing problems at Wave 2 (6 months beyond baseline), even after controlling for children's internalizing and externalizing problems at Wave 1 and other covariates. The stepcouple relationship was not directly linked to youth outcomes. Our findings provide implications for future research and practice. © 2017 Family Process Institute.
External quality assurance of HER2 fluorescence in situ hybridisation testing: results of a UK NEQAS pilot scheme

PubMed Central

Bartlett, John M S; Ibrahim, Merdol; Jasani, Bharat; Morgan, John M; Ellis, Ian; Kay, Elaine; Magee, Hilary; Barnett, Sarah; Miller, Keith

2007-01-01

Background and Aims Trastuzumab provides clinical benefit for advanced and early breast cancer patients whose tumours over‐express or have gene amplification of the HER2 oncogene. The UK National External Quality Assessment Scheme (NEQAS) for immunohistochemical testing was established to assess and improve the quality of HER2 immunohistochemical testing. However, until recently, no provision was available for HER2 fluorescence in situ hybridisation (FISH) testing. A pilot scheme was set up to review the performance of FISH testing in clinical diagnostic laboratories. Methods FISH was performed in 6 reference and 31 participating laboratories using a cell line panel with known HER2 status. Results Using results from reference laboratories as a criterion for acceptable performance, 60% of all results returned by participants were appropriate and 78% either appropriate or acceptable. However, 22.4% of results returned were deemed inappropriate, including 13 cases (4.2%) where a misdiagnosis would have been made had these been clinical specimens. Conclusions The results of three consecutive runs show that both reference laboratories and a proportion of routine clinical diagnostic (about 25%) centres can consistently achieve acceptable quality control of HER2 testing. Data from a significant proportion of participating laboratories show that further steps are required, including those taken via review of performance under schemes such as NEQAS, to improve quality of HER2 testing by FISH in the “real world”. PMID:16963466
Improved GMP-compliant multi-dose production and quality control of 6-[18F]fluoro-L-DOPA.

PubMed

Luurtsema, G; Boersma, H H; Schepers, M; de Vries, A M T; Maas, B; Zijlma, R; de Vries, E F J; Elsinga, P H

2017-01-01

6-[ 18 F]Fluoro-L-3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (FDOPA) is a frequently used radiopharmaceutical for detecting neuroendocrine and brain tumors and for the differential diagnosis of Parkinson's disease. To meet the demand for FDOPA, a high-yield GMP-compliant production method is required. Therefore, this study aimed to improve the FDOPA production and quality control procedures to enable distribution of the radiopharmaceutical over distances.FDOPA was prepared by electrophilic fluorination of the trimethylstannyl precursor with [ 18 F]F 2 , produced from [ 18 O] 2 via the double-shoot approach, leading to FDOPA with higher specific activity as compared to FDOPA which was synthesized, using [ 18 F]F 2 produced from 20 Ne, leading to FDOPA with a lower specific activity. The quality control of the product was performed using a validated UPLC system and compared with quality control with a conventional HPLC system. Impurities were identified using UPLC-MS. The [ 18 O] 2 double-shoot radionuclide production method yielded significantly more [ 18 F]F 2 with less carrier F 2 than the conventional method starting from 20 Ne. After adjustment of radiolabeling parameters substantially higher amounts of FDOPA with higher specific activity could be obtained. Quality control by UPLC was much faster and detected more side-products than HPLC. UPLC-MS showed that the most important side-product was FDOPA-quinone, rather than 6-hydroxydopa as suggested by the European Pharmacopoeia. The production and quality control of FDOPA were significantly improved by introducing the [ 18 O] 2 double-shoot radionuclide production method, and product analysis by UPLC, respectively. As a result, FDOPA is now routinely available for clinical practice and for distribution over distances.
Associations of Tumor PD-1 Ligands, Immunohistochemical Studies, and Textural Features in 18F-FDG PET in Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Head and Neck.

PubMed

Chen, Rui-Yun; Lin, Ying-Chun; Shen, Wei-Chih; Hsieh, Te-Chun; Yen, Kuo-Yang; Chen, Shang-Wen; Kao, Chia-Hung

2018-01-08

To know tumor PD-L1 expression through IHC or the FDG-PET related radiomics, we investigated the association between programmed cell death protein 1 ligand (PD-L1) expression and immunohistochemical (IHC) biomarkers or textural features of 18F-fluoro-2-deoxdeoxyglucose positron emission tomography ( 18 F-FDG PET) in 53 oropharyngeal or hypopharyngeal cancer patients who were ready to undergo radiotherapy-based treatment. Differences in textural features or biomarkers between tumors with and without PD-L1 expression were tested using a Mann-Whitney U test. The predicted values for PD-L1 expression were examined using logistic regression analysis. The mean percentages of tumor PD-L1 expression were 6.2 ± 13.5. Eighteen tumors had PD-L1 expression ≥5%, whereas 30 tumors ≥1%. Using a 5% cutoff, the p16 staining percentage and the textural index of correlation were two factors associated with PD-L1 expression. The odds ratios (ORs) were 17.00 (p = 0.028) and 0.009 (p = 0.015), respectively. When dichotomizing PD-L1 at 1%, the p16 and Ki-67 staining percentages were two predictors for PD-L1 expression with ORs of 11.41 (p = 0.035) and 757.77 (p = 0.045). p16 and Ki-67 staining percentages and several PET/CT-derived textural features can provide supplemental information to determine tumor PD-L1 expression in HNCs.
Catabolism of 6-ketoprostaglandin F1alpha by the rat kidney cortex.

PubMed

Pace-Asciak, C R; Domazet, Z; Carrara, M

1977-05-25

Homogenates of the rat kidney cortex converted 5,8,9,11,12,14,15-hepta-tritiated 6-ketoprostaglandin F 1alpha into one major product identified by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry of the methoxime-methyl ester trimethylsilyl ether derivative as 6,15-diketo-9,11-dihydroxyprost-13-enoic acid. The sequence of derivatisation i.e. methoximation prior to methylation, was crucial as methylation of 15-keto catabolites of the E, F and 6-keto-F series affords degradation products. The corresponding 15-keto-13,14-dihydro catabolite was formed in much smaller quantities. Time course studies indicated that 6-keto-prostaglandin F1alpha was catabolised at a slower rate (about 2-5 fold) than prostaglandin F1alpha. The catabolic activity was blocked by NADH.
Correlations between pathologic subtypes/immunohistochemical implication and CT characteristics of lung adenocarcinoma ≤ 1 cm with ground-glass opacity.

PubMed

Wu, Fang; Cai, Zu-long; Tian, Shu-ping; Jin, Xin; Jing, Rui; Yang, Yue-qing; Li, Ying-na; Zhao, Shao-hong

2015-04-01

To discuss the correlation of pathologic subtypes and immunohistochemical implication with CT features of lung adenocarcinoma 1 cm or less in diameter with focal ground-glass opacity (fGGO). CT appearances of 59 patients who underwent curative resection of lung adenocarcinoma ≤ 1 cm with fGGO were analyzed in terms of lesion location, size, density, shape (round, oval, polygonal, irregular), margin (smooth, lobular, spiculated, lobular and spiculated), bubble-like sign, air bronchogram, pleural tag, and tumor-lung interface. Histopathologic subtypes were classified according to International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer/ American Thoracic Society/European Respiratory Society classification of lung adenocarcinoma. Common molecular markers in immunohistochemical study included human epidermal growth factor receptor (HER)-1,HER-2,Ki-67, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and DNA topoisomerase 2Α.Patients' age and lesions' size and density were compared with pathologic subtypes using analysis of variance or nonparametric Wilcoxon tests. Patients' gender, lesion location, shape and margin, bubble-like sign, air bronchogram, pleural tag, and tumor-lung interface were compared with histopathologic subtypes and immunohistochemical implication using ψ² test or Fisher's exact test. The patients' gender, age, lesion location, shape, air bronchogram, pleural tag, and tumor-lung interface were not significantly different among different histopathologic subtypes (P=0.194, 0.126, 0.609, 0.678, 0.091, 0.374, and 0.339, respectively), whereas the lesion size,density,bubble-like sign, and margin showed significant differences (P=0.028, 0.002, 0.003, 0.046, respectively). The expression of Ki-67 significantly differed among nodules with different shapes(P=0.015). Statistically significant difference also existed between tumor-lung interface and HER-1 expression (P=0.019) and between bubble sign and HER-2 expression (P=0.049). Of lung adenocarcinoma ≤ 1 cm
Correlation between 18F-FDG Positron-Emission Tomography 18F-FDG Uptake Levels at Diagnosis and Histopathologic and Immunohistochemical Factors in Patients with Breast Cancer

PubMed Central

Uğurluer, Gamze; Yavuz, Sinan; Çalıkuşu, Züleyha; Seyrek, Ertuğrul; Kibar, Mustafa; Serin, Meltem; Ersöz, Canan; Demircan, Orhan

2016-01-01

Objective In this study, we aimed to determine the correlation between pretreatment-staging 18F-FDG total body positron-emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax) levels and histopathologic and immunohistochemical predictive and prognostic factors in patients with breast cancer. Materials and Methods One hundred thirty-nine women with breast cancer who were treated between 2009 and 2015 at our hospital and who had pretreatment-staging PET/CT were included in the study. SUVmax levels and histopathologic and immunohistochemical results were compared. Results The median age was 48 years (range, 29–79 years). The mean tumor diameter was 33.4 mm (range, 7–120 mm). The histology was invasive ductal carcinoma in 80.6% of the patients. In the univariate analysis, SUVmax levels were significantly higher in patients with invasive ductal carcinoma; in patients with a maximum tumor diameter more than 2 cm; patients who were estrogen, progesterone, and combined hormone receptor-negative, triple-negative patients, and in tumors with higher grades (p<0.05). In HER2-positive patients, SUVmax levels were higher even if it was not statistically significant. There was no correlation between lymph node metastases and pathologic stage. In multivariate analysis, tumor diameter was an independent factor. Conclusion SUVmax levels are correlated with known histopathologic and immunohistochemical prognostic factors. PET/CT could be useful in preoperative evaluation of patients with breast cancer to predict biologic characteristics of tumors and prognosis. PMID:28331746
New organic superconductors beta-(BDA-TTP)2X [BDA-TTP + 2,5-bis(1,3-dithian-2ylidene)-1,3,4,6-tetrathiapentalene; X(-) = SbF6(-), AsF6(-), and PF6(-)].

PubMed

Yamada, J; Watanabe, M; Akutsu, H; Nakatsuji, S; Nishikawa, H; Ikemoto, I; Kikuchi, K

2001-05-09

The synthesis, electrochemical properties, and molecular structure of a new pi-electron donor, 2,5-bis(1,3-dithian-2-ylidene)-1,3,4,6-tetrathiapentalene (BDA-TTP), is described. In contrast to the hitherto-known tetrachalcogenafulvalene pi-donors providing organic superconductors, this donor contains only the bis-fused 1,3-dithiole-2-ylidene unit as a pi-electron system, yet produces a series of ambient-pressure superconductors beta-(BDA-TTP)2X [X = SbF6 (magnetic T(c) = 6.9 K, resistive T(c) = 7.5 K), AsF6 (magnetic T(c) = 5.9 K, resistive T(c) = 5.8 K), and PF6 (magnetic T(c) = 5.9 K)], which are isostructural. The values of the intermolecular overlap integrals calculated on the donor layers of these superconductors suggest a two-dimensional (2D) electronic structure with loose donor packing. Tight-binding band calculations also indicate that these superconductors have the 2D band dispersion relations and closed Fermi surfaces.
Immunohistochemical analysis of macroautophagy

PubMed Central

Martinet, Wim; Schrijvers, Dorien M.; Timmermans, Jean-Pierre; Bult, Hidde; De Meyer, Guido R.Y.

2013-01-01

Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) is an indispensable standard method to monitor macroautophagy in tissue samples. Because TEM is time consuming and not suitable for daily routine, many groups try to identify macroautophagy in tissue by conventional immunohistochemistry. The aim of the present study was to evaluate whether immunohistochemical assessment of macroautophagy-related marker proteins such as LC3, ATG5, CTSD/cathepsin D, BECN1/Beclin 1 or SQSTM1/p62 is feasible and autophagy-specific. For this purpose, livers from starved mice were used as a model because hepatocytes are highly sensitive to autophagy induction. ATG7-deficient mouse livers served as negative control. Our findings indicate that unambiguous immunodetection of LC3 in paraffin-embedded tissue specimens was hampered due to low in situ levels of this protein. Maximum sensitivity could only be obtained using high-quality, isoform-specific antibodies, such as antibody 5F10, in combination with Envision+ signal amplification. Moreover, LC3 stains were optimal in neutral-buffered formalin-fixed tissue, immersed in citrate buffer during antigen retrieval. However, even when using this methodology, LC3 monitoring required overexpression of the protein, e.g., in GFP-LC3 transgenic mice. This was not only the case for the liver but also for other organs including heart, skeletal muscle, kidney and gut. Immunohistochemical detection of the autophagy-related proteins ATG5, CTSD or BECN1 is not recommendable for monitoring autophagy, due to lack of differential gene expression or doubtful specificity. SQSTM1 accumulated in autophagy-deficient liver, thus it is not a useful marker for tissue with autophagic activity. We conclude that TEM remains an indispensable technique for in situ evaluation of macroautophagy, particularly in clinical samples for which genetic manipulation or other in vitro techniques are not feasible. PMID:23242143

Immunohistochemical expression of CK7, CK5/6, CK19, and p63 in Warthin tumor.

PubMed

Dăguci, Luminiţa; Stepan, A; Mercuţ, Veronica; Dăguci, C; Bătăiosu, Marilena; Florescu, Alma

2012-01-01

Our study included a number of 24 cases with Warthin tumor, diagnosed between 2007-2011, which were analyzed in terms of clinical, histopathological and immunohistochemistry point of view, using CK7, CK5/6, CK19, and p63 antibodies. Warthin tumor is most often a tumor with a slow evolution, painless, usually affecting males (M/F 3.2/1) in the seventh decade of life. Histopathologically, it is distinguished the predominance of the typical forms of the tumor, with a balanced ratio epithelium/stroma. The immunostaining for CK7 showed positivity in all the investigated cases both in the columnar luminal cells and basal cells. The immunostaining for CK5/6 was positive in all the investigated cases in bilayer epithelial basal cells, both in the structure of the cysts and the papillae. In the case of the immunostaining for p63 we noticed limited nuclear positivity in the basal cells, while the columnar cells' nucleus were negative. The immunohistochemical study of the bilayer epithelial component of Warthin tumor showed different immunstaining of the two types of epithelia, the oncocytary columnar and the basal on, similar to those found in the salivary gland ducts.
Synthesis and preclinical characterization of 1-(6'-deoxy-6'-[18F]fluoro-β-d-allofuranosyl)-2-nitroimidazole (β-6'-[18F]FAZAL) as a positron emission tomography radiotracer to assess tumor hypoxia.

PubMed

Wanek, Thomas; Kreis, Katharina; Križková, Petra; Schweifer, Anna; Denk, Christoph; Stanek, Johann; Mairinger, Severin; Filip, Thomas; Sauberer, Michael; Edelhofer, Patricia; Traxl, Alexander; Muchitsch, Viktoria E; Mereiter, Kurt; Hammerschmidt, Friedrich; Cass, Carol E; Damaraju, Vijaya L; Langer, Oliver; Kuntner, Claudia

2016-11-01

Positron emission tomography (PET) using fluorine-18 ( 18 F)-labeled 2-nitroimidazole radiotracers has proven useful for assessment of tumor oxygenation. However, the passive diffusion-driven cellular uptake of currently available radiotracers results in slow kinetics and low tumor-to-background ratios. With the aim to develop a compound that is actively transported into cells, 1-(6'-deoxy-6'-[ 18 F]fluoro-β-d-allofuranosyl)-2-nitroimidazole (β-[ 18 F]1), a putative nucleoside transporter substrate, was synthetized by nucleophilic [ 18 F]fluoride substitution of an acetyl protected labeling precursor with a tosylate leaving group (β-6) in a final radiochemical yield of 12±8% (n=10, based on [ 18 F]fluoride starting activity) in a total synthesis time of 60min with a specific activity at end of synthesis of 218±58GBq/μmol (n=10). Both radiolabeling precursor β-6 and unlabeled reference compound β-1 were prepared in multistep syntheses starting from 1,2:5,6-di-O-isopropylidene-α-d-allofuranose. In vitro experiments demonstrated an interaction of β-1 with SLC29A1 and SLC28A1/2/3 nucleoside transporter as well as hypoxia specific retention of β-[ 18 F]1 in tumor cell lines. In biodistribution studies in healthy mice β-[ 18 F]1 showed homogenous tissue distribution and excellent metabolic stability, which was unaffected by tissue oxygenation. PET studies in tumor bearing mice showed tumor-to-muscle ratios of 2.13±0.22 (n=4) at 2h after administration of β-[ 18 F]1. In ex vivo autoradiography experiments β-[ 18 F]1 distribution closely matched staining with the hypoxia marker pimonidazole. In conclusion, β-[ 18 F]1 shows potential as PET hypoxia radiotracer which merits further investigation. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Externalizing Behaviors and Callous-Unemotional Traits: Different Associations With Sleep Quality.

PubMed

Denis, Dan; Akhtar, Reece; Holding, Benjamin C; Murray, Christina; Panatti, Jennifer; Claridge, Gordon; Sadeh, Avi; Barclay, Nicola L; O'Leary, Rachael; Maughan, Barbara; McAdams, Tom A; Rowe, Richard; Eley, Thalia C; Viding, Essi; Gregory, Alice M

2017-08-01

Sleep quality is associated with different aspects of psychopathology, but relatively little research has examined links between sleep quality and externalizing behaviors or callous-unemotional traits. We examined: (1) whether an association exists between sleep quality and externalizing behaviors; (2) whether anxiety mediates this association; (3) whether callous-unemotional traits are associated with sleep quality. Data from two studies were used. Study 1 involved 1556 participants of the G1219 study aged 18-27 years (62% female). Questionnaire measures assessed sleep quality, anxiety, externalizing behaviors, and callous-unemotional traits. Study 2 involved 338 participants aged 18-66 years (65% female). Questionnaires measured sleep quality, externalizing behaviors, and callous-unemotional traits. In order to assess objective sleep quality, actigraphic data were also recorded for a week from a subsample of study 2 participants (n = 43). In study 1, poorer sleep quality was associated with greater externalizing behaviors. This association was partially mediated by anxiety and moderated by levels of callous-unemotional traits. There was no significant relationship between sleep quality and callous-unemotional traits. In study 2, poorer sleep quality, as assessed via self-reported but not objective measures, was associated with higher levels of externalizing behaviors. Furthermore, in study 2, better sleep quality (indicated in both questionnaires and actigraphy measures: lower mean activity, and greater sleep efficiency) was associated with higher levels of callous-unemotional traits. Self-reports of poorer sleep quality are associated with externalizing behaviors, and this association is partially mediated by anxiety. Callous-unemotional traits are not associated with poor sleep and may even be related to better sleep quality. This is an exceptional finding given that poor sleep quality appears to be a characteristic of most psychopathology. © Sleep Research
Externalizing Behaviors and Callous-Unemotional Traits: Different Associations With Sleep Quality

PubMed Central

Akhtar, Reece; Holding, Benjamin C; Murray, Christina; Panatti, Jennifer; Claridge, Gordon; Sadeh, Avi; Barclay, Nicola L; O’Leary, Rachael; Maughan, Barbara; McAdams, Tom A; Rowe, Richard; Eley, Thalia C; Viding, Essi

2017-01-01

Abstract Study Objectives Sleep quality is associated with different aspects of psychopathology, but relatively little research has examined links between sleep quality and externalizing behaviors or callous-unemotional traits. We examined: (1) whether an association exists between sleep quality and externalizing behaviors; (2) whether anxiety mediates this association; (3) whether callous-unemotional traits are associated with sleep quality. Methods Data from two studies were used. Study 1 involved 1556 participants of the G1219 study aged 18–27 years (62% female). Questionnaire measures assessed sleep quality, anxiety, externalizing behaviors, and callous-unemotional traits. Study 2 involved 338 participants aged 18–66 years (65% female). Questionnaires measured sleep quality, externalizing behaviors, and callous-unemotional traits. In order to assess objective sleep quality, actigraphic data were also recorded for a week from a subsample of study 2 participants (n = 43). Results In study 1, poorer sleep quality was associated with greater externalizing behaviors. This association was partially mediated by anxiety and moderated by levels of callous-unemotional traits. There was no significant relationship between sleep quality and callous-unemotional traits. In study 2, poorer sleep quality, as assessed via self-reported but not objective measures, was associated with higher levels of externalizing behaviors. Furthermore, in study 2, better sleep quality (indicated in both questionnaires and actigraphy measures: lower mean activity, and greater sleep efficiency) was associated with higher levels of callous-unemotional traits. Conclusions Self-reports of poorer sleep quality are associated with externalizing behaviors, and this association is partially mediated by anxiety. Callous-unemotional traits are not associated with poor sleep and may even be related to better sleep quality. This is an exceptional finding given that poor sleep quality appears to be a
The OsO(3)F(+) and mu-F(OsO(3)F)(2)(+) cations: their syntheses and study by Raman and (19)F NMR spectroscopy and electron structure calculations and X-ray crystal structures of [OsO(3)F][PnF(6)] (Pn = As, Sb), [OsO(3)F][HF](2)[AsF(6)], [OsO(3)F][HF][SbF(6)], and [OsO(3)F][Sb(3)F(16)].

PubMed

Gerken, Michael; Dixon, David A; Schrobilgen, Gary J

2002-01-28

The fluoride ion donor properties of OsO(3)F(2) have been investigated. The salts [OsO(3)F][AsF(6)], [OsO(3)F][HF](2)[AsF(6)], mu-F(OsO(3)F)(2)[AsF(6)], [OsO(3)F][HF](2)[SbF(6)], and [OsO(3)F][HF][SbF(6)] have been prepared by reaction of OsO(3)F(2) with AsF(5) and SbF(5) in HF solvent and have been characterized in the solid state by Raman spectroscopy. The single-crystal X-ray diffraction studies of [OsO(3)F][AsF(6)] (P2(1)/n, a = 7.0001(11) A, c = 8.8629(13) A, beta = 92.270(7) degrees, Z = 4, and R(1) = 0.0401 at -126 degrees C), [OsO(3)F][SbF(6)] (P2(1)/c, a = 5.4772(14) A, b = 10.115(3) A, c = 12.234(3) A, beta = 99.321(5) degrees, Z = 4, and R(1) = 0.0325 at -173 degrees C), [OsO(3)F][HF](2)[AsF(6)] (P2(1)/n, a = 5.1491(9) A, b = 8.129(2) A, c = 19.636(7) A, beta = 95.099(7) degrees, Z = 4, and R(1) = 0.0348 at -117 degrees C), and [OsO(3)F][HF][SbF(6)] (Pc, a = 5.244(4) A, b = 9.646(6) A, c = 15.269(10) A, beta = 97.154(13) degrees, Z = 4, and R(1) = 0.0558 at -133 degrees C) have shown that the OsO(3)F(+) cations exhibit strong contacts to the anions and HF solvent molecules giving rise to cyclic, dimeric structures in which the osmium atoms have coordination numbers of 6. The reaction of OsO(3)F(2) with neat SbF(5) yielded [OsO(3)F][Sb(3)F(16)], which has been characterized by (19)F NMR spectroscopy in SbF(5) and SO(2)ClF solvents and by Raman spectroscopy and single-crystal X-ray diffraction in the solid state (P4(1)m, a = 10.076(6) A, c = 7.585(8) A, Z = 2, and R(1) = 0.0858 at -113 degrees C). The weak fluoride ion basicity of the Sb(3)F(16)(-) anion resulted in an OsO(3)F(+) cation (C(3)(v) point symmetry) that is well isolated from the anion and in which the osmium is four-coordinate. The geometrical parameters and vibrational frequencies of OsO(3)F(+), ReO(3)F, mu-F(OsO(3)F)(2)(+), (FO(3)Os--FPnF(5))(2), and (FO(3)Os--(HF)(2)--FPnF(5))(2) (Pn = As, Sb) have been calculated using density functional theory methods.
Histopathological and immunohistochemical evaluation of nitrogen mustard-induced cutaneous effects in SKH-1 hairless and C57BL/6 mice.

PubMed

Jain, Anil K; Tewari-Singh, Neera; Inturi, Swetha; Orlicky, David J; White, Carl W; Agarwal, Rajesh

2014-03-01

Sulfur mustard (SM) is a vesicant warfare agent which causes severe skin injuries. Currently, we lack effective antidotes against SM-induced skin injuries, in part due to lack of appropriate animal model(s) that can be used for efficacy studies in laboratory settings to identify effective therapies. Therefore, to develop a relevant mouse skin injury model, we examined the effects of nitrogen mustard (NM), a primary vesicant and a bifunctional alkylating agent that induces toxic effects comparable to SM. Specifically, we conducted histopathological and immunohistochemical evaluation of several applicable cutaneous pathological lesions following skin NM (3.2mg) exposure for 12-120h in SKH-1 and C57BL/6 mice. NM caused a significant increase in epidermal thickness, incidence of microvesication, cell proliferation, apoptotic cell death, inflammatory cells (neutrophils, macrophages and mast cells) and myleoperoxidase activity in the skin of both mouse strains. However, there was a more prominent NM-induced increase in epidermal thickness, and macrophages and mast cell infiltration, in SKH-1 mice relative to what was seen in C57BL/6 mice. NM also caused collagen degradation and edema at early time points (12-24h); however, at later time points (72 and 120h), dense collagen staining was observed, indicating either water loss or start of integument repair in both the mouse strains. This study provides quantitative measurement of NM-induced histopathological and immunohistochemical cutaneous lesions in both hairless and haired mouse strains that could serve as useful tools for screening and identification of effective therapies for treatment of skin injuries due to NM and SM. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.
External Quality Arrangements for Scotland's Colleges

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Her Majesty's Inspectorate of Education, 2008

2008-01-01

This document represents an innovative and radical landmark in the development of external quality arrangements for Scotland's colleges. The quality framework and arrangements for annual engagement, subject-based aspect reports, and external review reflect new thinking nationally, within HMIE, in the Scottish Further and Higher Education Funding…
Cyclisation versus 1,1-Carboboration: Reactions of B(C6F5)3 with Propargyl Amides.

PubMed

Melen, Rebecca L; Hansmann, Max M; Lough, Alan J; Hashmi, A Stephen K; Stephan, Douglas W

2013-09-02

A series of propargyl amides were prepared and their reactions with the Lewis acidic compound B(C6F5)3 were investigated. These reactions were shown to afford novel heterocycles under mild conditions. The reaction of a variety of N-substituted propargyl amides with B(C6F5)3 led to an intramolecular oxo-boration cyclisation reaction, which afforded the 5-alkylidene-4,5-dihydrooxazolium borate species. Secondary propargyl amides gave oxazoles in B(C6F5)3 mediated (catalytic) cyclisation reactions. In the special case of disubstitution adjacent to the nitrogen atom, 1,1-carboboration is favoured as a result of the increased steric hindrance (1,3-allylic strain) in the 5-alkylidene-4,5-dihydrooxazolium borate species. Copyright © 2013 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.
42 CFR 438.352 - External quality review protocols.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 42 Public Health 4 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false External quality review protocols. 438.352 Section... SERVICES (CONTINUED) MEDICAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS MANAGED CARE External Quality Review § 438.352 External quality review protocols. Each protocol must specify— (a) The data to be gathered; (b) The sources of the...
Tympanomastoid cholesterol granulomas: Immunohistochemical evaluation of angiogenesis.

PubMed

Iannella, Giannicola; Di Gioia, Cira; Carletti, Raffaella; Magliulo, Giuseppe

2017-08-01

This study investigates the immunohistochemical expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and CD34 in patients treated for middle ear and mastoid cholesterol granulomas to evaluate the angiogenesis and vascularization of this type of lesion. A correlation between the immunohistochemical data and the radiological and intraoperative evidence of temporal bone marrow invasion and blood source connection was performed to validate this hypothesis. Retrospective study. Immunohistochemical expression of VEGF and CD34 in a group of 16 patients surgically treated for cholesterol granuloma was examined. Middle ear cholesteatomas with normal middle ear mucosa and external auditory canal skin were used as the control groups. The radiological and intraoperative features of cholesterol granulomas were also examined. In endothelial cells, there was an increased expression of angiogenetic growth factor receptors in all the cholesterol granulomas in this study. The quantitative analysis of VEGF showed a mean value of 37.5, whereas the CD34 quantitative analysis gave a mean value of 6.8. Seven patients presented radiological or intraoperative evidence of bone marrow invasion, hematopoietic potentialities, or blood source connections that might support the bleeding theory. In all of these cases there was computed tomography or intraoperative evidence of bone erosion of the middle ear and/or temporal bone structures. The mean values of VEGF and CD34 were 41.1 and 7.7, respectively. High values of VEGF and CD34 are present in patients with cholesterol granulomas. Upregulation of VEGF and CD34 is indicative of a remarkable angiogenesis and a widespread vascular concentration in cholesterol granulomas. 3b. Laryngoscope, 127:E283-E290, 2017. © 2017 The American Laryngological, Rhinological and Otological Society, Inc.
[Immunohistochemical examination of MSH2, PMS2, MLH1, MSH6 compared with the analysis of microsatellite instability in colon adenocarcinoma].

PubMed

Raskin, G A; Ianus, G A; Kornilov, A V; Orlova, R V; Petrov, S V; Protasova, A É; Pozharisskiĭ, K M; Imianitov, E N

2014-01-01

Adenocarcinoma of the colon in 10-20% is associated with microsatellite instability, which can occur both in sporadic cancers and in hereditary nonpolyposis colon cancer. Our analysis of 195 cases of adenocarcinoma of the colon showed that microsatellite instability (MSI-H) was found only in 1.5% of patients. Subsequent choice of patients with suspected hereditary Lynch syndrome led to the identification of additional 17 patients with microsatellite instability. They passed an analysis of genes of repair system of unpaired nucleotides of DNA. The study showed that immunohistochemical staining of MSH2, MSH6, MLH1, PMS2 could effectively conduct a preliminary screening of the Lynch syndrome but was unable to divide cases of sporadic and hereditary MSI-H colon cancer.
Growth, reproductive performance, carcass characteristics and meat quality in F1 and F2 progenies of somatic cell-cloned pigs.

PubMed

Adachi, Noritaka; Yamaguchi, Daisuke; Watanabe, Akiyuki; Miura, Narumi; Sunaga, Seiji; Oishi, Hitoshi; Hashimoto, Michiko; Oishi, Takatsugu; Iwamoto, Masaki; Hanada, Hirofumi; Kubo, Masanori; Onishi, Akira

2014-04-24

The objective of this study was to examine the health and meat production of cloned sows and their progenies in order to demonstrate the application of somatic cell cloning to the pig industry. This study compared the growth, reproductive performance, carcass characteristics and meat quality of Landrace cloned sows, F1 progenies and F2 progenies. We measured their body weight, growth rate and feed conversion and performed a pathological analysis of their anatomy to detect abnormalities. Three of the five cloned pigs were used for a growth test. Cloned pigs grew normally and had characteristics similar to those of the control purebred Landrace pigs. Two cloned gilts were bred with a Landrace boar and used for a progeny test. F1 progenies had characteristics similar to those of the controls. Two of the F1 progeny gilts were bred with a Duroc or Large White boar and used for the progeny test. F2 progenies grew normally. There were no biological differences in growth, carcass characteristics and amino acid composition among cloned sows, F1 progenies, F2 progenies and conventional pigs. The cloned sows and F1 progenies showed normal reproductive performance. No specific abnormalities were observed by pathological analysis, with the exception of periarteritis in the F1 progenies. All pigs had a normal karyotype. These results demonstrate that cloned female pigs and their progenies have similar growth, reproductive performance and carcass quality characteristics and that somatic cell cloning could be a useful technique for conserving superior pig breeds in conventional meat production.
Growth, Reproductive Performance, Carcass Characteristics and Meat Quality in F1 and F2 Progenies of Somatic Cell-Cloned Pigs

PubMed Central

ADACHI, Noritaka; YAMAGUCHI, Daisuke; WATANABE, Akiyuki; MIURA, Narumi; SUNAGA, Seiji; OISHI, Hitoshi; HASHIMOTO, Michiko; OISHI, Takatsugu; IWAMOTO, Masaki; HANADA, Hirofumi; KUBO, Masanori; ONISHI, Akira

2014-01-01

The objective of this study was to examine the health and meat production of cloned sows and their progenies in order to demonstrate the application of somatic cell cloning to the pig industry. This study compared the growth, reproductive performance, carcass characteristics and meat quality of Landrace cloned sows, F1 progenies and F2 progenies. We measured their body weight, growth rate and feed conversion and performed a pathological analysis of their anatomy to detect abnormalities. Three of the five cloned pigs were used for a growth test. Cloned pigs grew normally and had characteristics similar to those of the control purebred Landrace pigs. Two cloned gilts were bred with a Landrace boar and used for a progeny test. F1 progenies had characteristics similar to those of the controls. Two of the F1 progeny gilts were bred with a Duroc or Large White boar and used for the progeny test. F2 progenies grew normally. There were no biological differences in growth, carcass characteristics and amino acid composition among cloned sows, F1 progenies, F2 progenies and conventional pigs. The cloned sows and F1 progenies showed normal reproductive performance. No specific abnormalities were observed by pathological analysis, with the exception of periarteritis in the F1 progenies. All pigs had a normal karyotype. These results demonstrate that cloned female pigs and their progenies have similar growth, reproductive performance and carcass quality characteristics and that somatic cell cloning could be a useful technique for conserving superior pig breeds in conventional meat production. PMID:24492641
Ultrafast Self-Crystallization of High-External-Quantum-Efficient Fluoride Phosphors for Warm White Light-Emitting Diodes.

PubMed

Zhou, Wenli; Fang, Mu-Huai; Lian, Shixun; Liu, Ru-Shi

2018-05-30

In this study, we used HF (as good solvent) to dissolve K 2 GeF 6 and K 2 MnF 6 and added ethanol (as poor solvent) to cause ultrafast self-crystallization of K 2 GeF 6 :Mn 4+ crystals, which had an unprecedentedly high external quantum efficiency that reached 73%. By using the red phosphor, we achieved a high-quality warm white light-emitting diode with color-rendering index of R a = 94, R9 = 95, luminous efficacy of 150 lm W -1 , and correlated color temperature at 3652 K. Furthermore, the good-poor solvent strategy can be used to fast synthesize other fluorides.
77 FR 21086 - Patents External Quality Survey (formerly Customer Panel Quality Survey)

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-04-09

... DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE United States Patent and Trademark Office Patents External Quality Survey (formerly Customer Panel Quality Survey) ACTION: Proposed collection; comment request. SUMMARY: The United...: [email protected] . Include ``0651- 0057 Patents External Quality Survey comment'' in the...
Endothelial cell markers in vascular neoplasms: an immunohistochemical study comparing factor VIII-related antigen, blood group specific antigens, 6-keto-PGF1 alpha, and Ulex europaeus 1 lectin.

PubMed

Little, D; Said, J W; Siegel, R J; Fealy, M; Fishbein, M C

1986-06-01

Markers for endothelial cells including Ulex europaeus 1 lectin, blood group A, B, and H, and the prostaglandin metabolite 6-keto-PGF1 alpha were evaluated in paraffin secretions from formalin-fixed benign and malignant vascular neoplasms using a variety of immunohistochemical techniques, and results compared with staining for factor VIII-related antigen. Staining for Ulex appeared more sensitive than factor VIII-related antigen in identifying poorly differentiated neoplasms including haemangiosarcomas and spindle cell proliferations in Kaposi's sarcoma. Staining for blood group related antigens correlated with blood group in all cases. Ulex europaeus 1 lectin was the only marker for endothelial cells in lymphangiomas.
Electron induced ionization of plasma processing gases: C4F x (x = 1–8) and the isomers of C4F6 and C4F8

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gupta, Dhanoj; Choi, Heechol; Kwon, Deuk-Chul; Yoon, Jung-Sik; Song, Mi-Young

2018-04-01

The total ionization cross section (Q ion) for C4F x (x = 1–8) fluorocarbons and the isomers of C4F6 and C4F8 molecules are calculated from ionization threshold to 5 keV using the binary-encounter bethe method. The targets are fully optimized using the Hartree–Fock (HF) method and density function theory (DFT) for their minimum energy structure and orbital parameters. The present Q ion with HF parameters showed good agreement with the experimental data for 1,3-C4F6, 2-C4F6, 2-C4F8 and 1-C4F8. On the other hand, the Q ion with DFT parameters are in good accordance with the recent theoretical results for 1,3-C4F6 and 2-C4F6. The Q ion for c-C4F8 showed much variation among the various results. The isomer effect in Q ion is negligible for the isomers of C4F6 and C4F8 molecules. The calculation of Q ion for C4F, C4F2, C4F3, C4F4, C4F5, c-C4F6, C4F7 and iso-C4F8 is a maiden attempt. The present cross section data are important quantities for low temperature plasma modeling especially related to the fluorocarbon plasmas.
Carcinogenicity of acrylamide in B6C3F(1) mice and F344/N rats from a 2-year drinking water exposure.

PubMed

Beland, Frederick A; Mellick, Paul W; Olson, Greg R; Mendoza, Maria C B; Marques, M Matilde; Doerge, Daniel R

2013-01-01

Acrylamide is a component of roasted coffee and certain baked and fried carbohydrate-rich foods prepared at high temperatures. We have assessed the carcinogenicity of acrylamide in male and female B6C3F(1) mice and F344/N rats administered 0, 0.0875, 0.175, 0.35, or 0.70mM acrylamide in the drinking water ad libitum for 2 years. Acrylamide caused significant dose-related decreasing trends in the body weights of F344/N rats. Acrylamide administration resulted in significant dose-related decreasing trends in survival in both sexes of B6C3F(1) mice and in female F344/N rats. Histopathological analyses indicated significant dose-related increases in Harderian gland and lung tumors in male and female B6C3F(1) mice. Male B6C3F(1) mice also had a significantly increased incidence of forestomach tumors, while female B6C3F(1) mice had significant dose-related increases in mammary gland, ovary, and skin tumors. In male and female F344/N rats, there were significant increases in thyroid tumors. Male F344/N rats also had significant dose-related increases in testes, heart, and pancreas tumors, while female F344 rats demonstrated significant increases in clitoral gland, mammary gland, oral cavity, and skin tumors. These results, combined with previous mechanistic studies, provide strong support for the concept that acrylamide is activated to a carcinogen through metabolism to glycidamide. Published by Elsevier Ltd.
Spin Tests of 1/20-Scale Models of the Chance Vought Revised XF6U-1 and F6U-1 Airplanes, TED No. NACA 2390

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Klinar, Walter J.; Berman, Theodore

1948-01-01

An investigation has been conducted in the Langley 20-foot free-spinning tunnel on the 1/20-scale model of the Chance Vought XF6U-1 airplane altered to represent the XF6U-1 airplane as it will be spin-tested in flight, and also altered to represent the F6U-1 airplane as it will be produced for service use. Spin tests were made to determine the effects of control settings and movements at the normal loading. The results show that the spins obtained on the revised XF6U-1 airplane will be oscillatory in roll and yaw and that recoveries by rudder reversal will be rapid. Model test results indicate that the F6U-1 airplane will probably not spin. Inasmuch as the results of this investigation show that the new designs are as good as or better than the original XF6U-1 design in regard to spin recovery, it is felt that the conclusions and recommendations reached for the original design can be applied to the new designs for all loading conditions.
Functional characterization of barley betaglucanless mutants demonstrates a unique role for CslF6 in (1,3;1,4)-β-D-glucan biosynthesis

PubMed Central

Taketa, Shin; Yuo, Takahisa; Tonooka, Takuji; Tsumuraya, Yoichi; Inagaki, Yoshiaki; Haruyama, Naoto; Larroque, Oscar; Jobling, Stephen A.

2012-01-01

(1,3;1,4)-β-D-glucans (mixed-linkage glucans) are found in tissues of members of the Poaceae (grasses), and are particularly high in barley (Hordeum vulgare) grains. The present study describes the isolation of three independent (1,3;1,4)-β-D-glucanless (betaglucanless; bgl) mutants of barley which completely lack (1,3;1,4)-β-D-glucan in all the tissues tested. The bgl phenotype cosegregates with the cellulose synthase like HvCslF6 gene on chromosome arm 7HL. Each of the bgl mutants has a single nucleotide substitution in the coding region of the HvCslF6 gene resulting in a change of a highly conserved amino acid residue of the HvCslF6 protein. Microsomal membranes isolated from developing endosperm of the bgl mutants lack detectable (1,3;1,4)-β-D-glucan synthase activity indicating that the HvCslF6 protein is inactive. This was confirmed by transient expression of the HvCslF6 cDNAs in Nicotiana benthamiana leaves. The wild-type HvCslF6 gene directed the synthesis of high levels of (1,3;1,4)-β-D-glucans, whereas the mutant HvCslF6 proteins completely lack the ability to synthesize (1,3;1,4)-β-D-glucans. The fine structure of the (1,3;1,4)-β-D-glucan produced in the tobacco leaf was also very different from that found in cereals having an extremely low DP3/DP4 ratio. These results demonstrate that, among the seven CslF and one CslH genes present in the barley genome, HvCslF6 has a unique role and is the key determinant controlling the biosynthesis of (1,3;1,4)-β-D-glucans. Natural allelic variation in the HvCslF6 gene was found predominantly within introns among 29 barley accessions studied. Genetic manipulation of the HvCslF6 gene could enable control of (1,3;1,4)-β-D-glucans in accordance with the purposes of use. PMID:21940720

Immunohistochemical analysis of macroautophagy: recommendations and limitations.

PubMed

Martinet, Wim; Schrijvers, Dorien M; Timmermans, Jean-Pierre; Bult, Hidde; De Meyer, Guido R Y

2013-03-01

Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) is an indispensable standard method to monitor macroautophagy in tissue samples. Because TEM is time consuming and not suitable for daily routine, many groups try to identify macroautophagy in tissue by conventional immunohistochemistry. The aim of the present study was to evaluate whether immunohistochemical assessment of macroautophagy-related marker proteins such as LC3, ATG5, CTSD/cathepsin D, BECN1/Beclin 1 or SQSTM1/p62 is feasible and autophagy-specific. For this purpose, livers from starved mice were used as a model because hepatocytes are highly sensitive to autophagy induction. ATG7-deficient mouse livers served as negative control. Our findings indicate that unambiguous immunodetection of LC3 in paraffin-embedded tissue specimens was hampered due to low in situ levels of this protein. Maximum sensitivity could only be obtained using high-quality, isoform-specific antibodies, such as antibody 5F10, in combination with Envision+ signal amplification. Moreover, LC3 stains were optimal in neutral-buffered formalin-fixed tissue, immersed in citrate buffer during antigen retrieval. However, even when using this methodology, LC3 monitoring required overexpression of the protein, e.g., in GFP-LC3 transgenic mice. This was not only the case for the liver but also for other organs including heart, skeletal muscle, kidney and gut. Immunohistochemical detection of the autophagy-related proteins ATG5, CTSD or BECN1 is not recommendable for monitoring autophagy, due to lack of differential gene expression or doubtful specificity. SQSTM1 accumulated in autophagy-deficient liver, thus it is not a useful marker for tissue with autophagic activity. We conclude that TEM remains an indispensable technique for in situ evaluation of macroautophagy, particularly in clinical samples for which genetic manipulation or other in vitro techniques are not feasible.
42 CFR 438.354 - Qualifications of external quality review organizations.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 42 Public Health 4 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Qualifications of external quality review... HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (CONTINUED) MEDICAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS MANAGED CARE External Quality Review § 438.354 Qualifications of external quality review organizations. (a) General rule. The State must...
Pilot Quality Control Program for Audit RT External Beams at Mexican Hospitals

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

Alvarez R, J T; Tovar M, V M

2008-08-11

A pilot quality control program for audit 18 radiotherapy RT external beams at 13 Mexican hospitals is described--for eleven {sup 60}Co beams and seven photon beams of 6, 10 and 15 MV from accelerators. This program contains five parts: a) Preparation of the TLD-100 powder: washing, drying and annealing (one hour 400 deg. C plus 24 hrs 80 deg. C). b) Sending two IAEA type capsules to the hospitals for irradiation at the hospital to a nominal D{sub W} = 2 Gy{center_dot}c) Preparation at the SSDL of ten calibration curves CC in the range of 0.5 Gy to 6 Gymore » in terms of absorbed dose to water D{sub W} for {sup 60}Co with traceability to primary laboratory NRC (Canada), according to a window irradiation: 26/10/2007-7/12/2007. d) Reading all capsules that match their hospital time irradiation and the SSDL window irradiation. f) Evaluation of the Dw imparted by the hospitals.« less
Inheritance of steroid-independent male sexual behavior in male offspring of B6D2F1 mice.

PubMed

McInnis, Christine M; Bonthuis, Paul J; Rissman, Emilie F; Park, Jin Ho

2016-04-01

The importance of gonadal steroids in modulating male sexual behavior is well established. Individual differences in male sexual behavior, independent of gonadal steroids, are prevalent across a wide range of species, including man. However, the genetic mechanisms underlying steroid-independent male sexual behavior are poorly understood. A high proportion of B6D2F1 hybrid male mice demonstrates steroid-independent male sexual behavior (identified as "maters"), providing a mouse model that opens up avenues of investigation into the mechanisms regulating male sexual behavior in the absence of gonadal hormones. Recent studies have revealed several proteins that play a significant factor in regulating steroid-independent male sexual behavior in B6D2F1 male mice, including amyloid precursor protein (APP), tau, and synaptophysin. The specific goals of our study were to determine whether steroid-independent male sexual behavior was a heritable trait by determining if it was dependent upon the behavioral phenotype of the B6D2F1 sire, and whether the differential expression of APP, tau, and synaptophysin in the medial preoptic area found in the B6D2F1 sires that did and did not mate after gonadectomy was similar to those found in their male offspring. After adult B6D2F1 male mice were bred with C57BL/6J female mice, they and their male offspring (BXB1) were orchidectomized and identified as either maters or "non-maters". A significant proportion of the BXB1 maters was sired only from B6D2F1 maters, indicating that the steroid-independent male sexual behavior behavioral phenotype of the B6D2F1 hybrid males, when crossed with C57BL/6J female mice, is inherited by their male offspring. Additionally, APP, tau, and synaptophysin were elevated in in the medial preoptic area in both the B6D2F1 and BXB1 maters relative to the B6D2F1 and BXB1 non-maters, respectively, suggesting a potential genetic mechanism for the inheritance of steroid-independent male sexual behavior. Copyright
Inheritance of steroid-independent male sexual behavior in male offspring of B6D2F1 mice

PubMed Central

McInnis, Christine M.; Bonthuis, Paul J.; Rissman, Emilie F.; Park, Jin Ho

2016-01-01

The importance of gonadal steroids in modulating male sexual behavior is well established. Individual differences in male sexual behavior, independent of gonadal steroids, are prevalent across a wide range of species, including man. However, the genetic mechanisms underlying steroid-independent male sexual behavior are poorly understood. A high proportion of B6D2F1 hybrid male mice demonstrate steroid-independent male sexual behavior (identified as “maters”), providing a mouse model that opens up avenues of investigation into the mechanisms regulating male sexual behavior in the absence of gonadal hormones. Recent studies have revealed several proteins that play a significant factor in regulating steroid-independent male sexual behavior in B6D2F1 male mice, including amyloid precursor protein (APP), tau, and synaptophysin. The specific goals of our study were to determine whether steroid-independent male sexual behavior was a heritable trait by determining if it was dependent upon the behavioral phenotype of the B6D2F1 sire, and whether the differential expression of APP, tau, and synaptophysin in the medial preoptic area found in the B6D2F1 sires that did and did not mate after gonadectomy was similar to those found in their male offspring. After adult B6D2F1 male mice were bred with C57BL/6J female mice, they and their male offspring (BXB1) were orchidectomized and identified as either maters or “non-maters.” A significant proportion of the BXB1 maters were sired only from B6D2F1 maters, indicating that the steroid-independent male sexual behavior behavioral phenotype of the B6D2F1 hybrid males, when crossed with C57BL/6J female mice, is inherited by their male offspring. Additionally, APP, tau, and synaptophysin were elevated in in the medial preoptic area in both the B6D2F1 and BXB1 maters relative to the B6D2F1 and BXB1 non-maters, respectively, suggesting a potential genetic mechanism for the inheritance of steroid-independent male sexual behavior
Serrated lesions of the appendix: a morphologic and immunohistochemical appraisal.

PubMed

Bellizzi, Andrew M; Rock, Jonathan; Marsh, William L; Frankel, Wendy L

2010-04-01

We performed a histologic and immunohistochemical assessment of 53 noninvasive appendiceal epithelial proliferations, appropriating terminology and using markers shown useful in differentiating serrated colorectal polyps. These were classified as hyperplastic polyp (HP), sessile serrated adenoma (SSA), mixed serrated and adenomatous lesion (MSAL), mucinous cystadenoma (MCA), or conventional adenoma (CAD). Immunohistochemical analysis for cytokeratin (CK) 20, Ki-67, MUC6, and beta-catenin was performed. Diagnoses were as follows: HP, 6; SSA, 12; HP vs SSA, 3; MSAL, 16; MCA, 14; and CAD, 2. All HPs showed expanded (beyond surface) CK20 and expanded or normal (base) Ki-67; 1 was MUC6+. Most SSAs and MSALs were CK20-expanded or expanded with random expression in deep crypts (Ex/I) and Ki-67-expanded, Ex/I (expanded with asymmetry), or normal. All SSAs and 8 of 16 MSALs were MUC6+. CADs were CK20-Ex/I, Ki-67-Ex, and MUC6-; 1 showed nuclear beta-catenin expression. Serrated appendiceal lesions can be categorized using colorectal terminology. MUC6 is associated with SSA morphologic features. Similar immunohistochemical patterns in SSA and MSAL suggest a link between these lesions.
Time-of-flight neutron powder diffraction study on the third row transition metal hexafluorides WF6, OsF6, and PtF6

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Marx, R.; Seppelt, K.; Ibberson, R. M.

1996-05-01

A neutron diffraction study on the third-row transition metal hexafluorides MF6 (M≡W, Os, Pt) has been performed using the high resolution neutron powder diffractometer (HRPD) at the spallation source ISIS, England. The previously unknown structures of the low-temperature phases of OsF6 and PtF6 are reported. WF6, OsF6, and PtF6, which exhibit a (5dt2g)0, (5dt2g)2, and (5dt2g)4 electronic configuration, respectively, are found to be isostructural and crystallize in the UF6 structure, space group Pmnb, (No. 62). The geometry of the MF6 molecules is to good approximation octahedral for each compound, the mean M-F bond length increasing only slightly from 182.5 (W) to 185.0 (Pt). For WF6 deviations from ideal octahedral geometry are only marginally significant [181.8(2) to 183.2(2) pm] and may be interpreted on the basis of packing effects. Deviations for the d2 complex OsF6 are somewhat larger [181.5(2) to 184.4(3) pm] and may be assumed to be caused by packing effects essentially the same as for WF6, in addition to a first-order Jahn-Teller effect arising from the (5dt2g)2 electronic configuration. While eliminating the effects of packing by a comparison of individual M-F bond lengths for WF6 and OsF6, the OsF6 molecule shows to have D4h symmetry with two apical M-F bonds about 1.8 pm longer than the four equatorial bonds as a result of the Jahn-Teller distortion. Only small deviations from ideal octahedral geometry [184.4(3) to 185.8(3) pm] are found for the d4 complex PtF6. Within the series W to Pt a substantial shortening of the F...F van der Waals contact distances is observed. This shortening more than compensates for the increase in the M-F bond lengths and leads to unit cell volumes and cell parameters decreasing continuously from W to Pt. The variation of F...F contact distances and M-F bond lengths may be rationalized in terms of polarization of the F-ligands in the field of the highly charged nuclei of the central atoms which are only incompletely
Arabidopsis RabF1 (ARA6) Is Involved in Salt Stress and Dark-Induced Senescence (DIS)

PubMed Central

Yin, Congfei; Karim, Sazzad; Zhang, Hongsheng; Aronsson, Henrik

2017-01-01

Arabidopsis small GTPase RabF1 (ARA6) functions in endosomal vesicle transport and may play a crucial role in recycling and degradation of molecules, thus involved in stress responses. Here we have reported that complementary overexpression lines RabF1OE (overexpression), GTPase mutants RabF1Q93L (constitutively active) and RabF1S47N (dominant negative) lines show longer root growth than wild-type, rabF1 knockout and N-myristoylation deletion (Δ1−29, N-terminus) complementary overexpression mutant plants under salt induced stress, which indicates that N-myristoylation of RabF1 is indispensable for salt tolerance. Moreover, RabF1 is highly expressed during senescence and RabF1OE lines were more tolerant of dark-induced senescence (DIS) than wild-type and rabF1. PMID:28157156
Summary of External Peer Review and Public Comments and Disposition for 1,3,4,6,7,8-Hexahydro-4,6,6,7,8,8,-hexamethylcyclopenta[γ]-2-benzopyran (HHCB)

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

This document summarizes the public and external peer review comments that the EPA’s Office of Pollution Prevention and Toxics (OPPT) received for the draft work plan risk assessment for 1,3,4,6,7,8-Hexahydro-4,6,6,7,8,8-hexamethylcyclopenta--2-benzopyran
16Oxygen irradiation enhances cued fear memory in B6D2F1 mice

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Raber, Jacob; Marzulla, Tessa; Kronenberg, Amy; Turker, Mitchell S.

2015-11-01

The space radiation environment includes energetic charged particles that may impact cognitive performance. We assessed the effects of 16O ion irradiation on cognitive performance of C57BL/6J × DBA/2J F1 (B6D2F1) mice at OHSU (Portland, OR) one month following irradiation at Brookhaven National Laboratory (BNL, Upton, NY). Hippocampus-dependent contextual fear memory and hippocampus-independent cued fear memory of B6D2F1 mice were tested. 16O ion exposure enhanced cued fear memory. This effect showed a bell-shaped dose response curve. Cued fear memory was significantly stronger in mice irradiated with 16O ions at a dose of 0.4 or 0.8 Gy than in sham-irradiated mice or following irradiation at 1.6 Gy. In contrast to cued fear memory, contextual fear memory was not affected following 16O ion irradiation at the doses used in this study. These data indicate that the amygdala might be particularly susceptible to effects of 16O ion exposure.
26 CFR 1.419A(f)(6)-1 - Exception for 10 or more employer plan.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... cost of coverage for the first year of coverage under Arrangement C is $6,000 for $1 million of death... is not the same for all the employers (employer F is charged $23,000 each year for $1 million of... year G will be charged $30,000 for the $1 million of coverage on R's life. Each year, G's cost of...
26 CFR 1.419A(f)(6)-1 - Exception for 10 or more employer plan.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... cost of coverage for the first year of coverage under Arrangement C is $6,000 for $1 million of death... is not the same for all the employers (employer F is charged $23,000 each year for $1 million of... year G will be charged $30,000 for the $1 million of coverage on R's life. Each year, G's cost of...
Immunohistochemical expression of glucose transporter 1 in keratin-producing odontogenic cysts.

PubMed

Vera-Sirera, Beatriz; Forner-Navarro, Leopoldo; Vera-Sempere, Francisco

2016-03-10

Keratin-producing odontogenic cysts (KPOCs) are a group of cystic lesions that are often aggressive, with high rates of recurrence and multifocality. KPOCs included orthokeratinised odontogenic cyst (OOC) and parakeratotic odontogenic cysts, which are now considered true tumours denominated keratocystic odontogenic tumours (KCOTs). GLUT1 is a protein transporter that is involved in the active uptake of glucose across cell membranes and that is overexpressed in tumours in close correlation with the proliferation rate and positron emission tomography (PET) imaging results. A series of 58 keratin-producing odontogenic cysts was evaluated histologically and immunohistochemically in terms of GLUT1 expression. Different data were correlated using the beta regression model in relation to histological type and immunohistochemical expression of GLUT1, which was quantified using two different morphological methods. KPOC cases comprised 12 OOCs and 46 KCOTs, the latter corresponding to 6 syndromic and 40 sporadic KCOTs. GLUT1 expression was very low in OOC cases compared with KCOT cases, with statistical significant differences when quantification was considered. Different GLUT1 localisation patterns were revealed by immunostaining, with the parabasal cells showing higher reactivity in KCOTs. However, among KCOTs cases, GLUT1 expression was unable to establish differences between syndromic and sporadic cases. GLUT1 expression differentiated between OOC and KCOT cases, with significantly higher expression in KCOTs, but did not differentiate between syndromic and sporadic KCOT cases. However, given the structural characteristics of KCOTs, we hypothesised that PET imaging methodology is probably not a useful diagnostic tool for KCOTs. Further studies of GLUT1 expression and PET examination in KCOT series are needed to confirm this last hypothesis.
Membrane pore architecture of the CslF6 protein controls (1-3,1-4)-β-glucan structure.

PubMed

Jobling, Stephen A

2015-06-01

The cereal cell wall polysaccharide (1-3,1-4)-β-glucan is a linear polymer of glucose containing both β1-3 and β1-4 bonds. The structure of (1-3,1-4)-β-glucan varies between different cereals and during plant growth and development, but little is known about how this is controlled. The cellulose synthase-like CslF6 protein is an integral membrane protein and a major component of the (1-3,1-4)-β-glucan synthase. I show that a single amino acid within the predicted transmembrane pore domain of CslF6 controls (1-3,1-4)-β-glucan structure. A new mechanism for the control of the polysaccharide structure is proposed where membrane pore architecture and the translocation of the growing polysaccharide across the membrane control how the acceptor glucan is coordinated at the active site and thus the proportion of β1-3 and β1-4 bonds within the polysaccharide.
An In-Depth Study on the Impact of External Quality Assurance

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Stensaker, Bjorn; Langfeldt, Liv; Harvey, Lee; Huisman, Jeroen; Westerheijden, Don

2011-01-01

After more than two decades of external quality assurance, there is an increasing interest in questions concerning the impact and effects of this activity. Following an external evaluation of NOKUT--the Norwegian quality assurance agency, this article studies the impact of external quality assurance in detail by analysing quantitative and…
Venous Shunt Versus Venous Ligation for Vascular Damage Control: The Immunohistochemical Evidence.

PubMed

Góes Junior, Adenauer Marinho de Oliveira; Abib, Simone de Campos Vieira; Alves, Maria Teresa de Seixas; Ferreira, Paulo Sérgio Venerando da Silva; Andrade, Mariseth Carvalho de

2017-05-01

To evaluate the expression of immunohistochemical markers of tissue ischemia (iNOS, eNOS, and HSP70) in a vascular damage control experimental model to determine if a venous temporary vascular shunt insertion leads to a better limb perfusion when compared with the ligature of the injured vein. Experimental study in male Sus Scrofa weighting 40 Kg. Animals were distributed into 5 groups: group 1 animals were submitted to right external iliac artery (EIA) shunting and right external iliac vein (EIV) ligation; group 2 animals were submitted to right EIA shunting and right EIV shunting; group 3 animals were submitted to right EIV ligation; group 4 animals were submitted to right EIV shunting; group 5 animals were not submitted to vascular shunting or venous ligation. Transonic Systems flowmeters were used to measure vascular flow on right and left external iliac vessels, and i-STAT (Abbot) portable blood analyzer was used for EIVs blood biochemical analysis. An initial baseline register of invasive arterial pressure, iliac vessels flow, and venous blood analysis was performed. Arterial pressure and iliac vessels flow were taken immediately after right iliac vessels shunting or ligation. Then, hemorrhagic shock was induced by continuous 20 mL/min blood withdraw from the external right jugular vein whereas arterial blood pressure and iliac vessels flow registers were taken every 10 min, and blood samples from EIVs were obtained every 30 min until the vascular flow through right EIA (or through the shunt inserted into the right EIV for group 4 animals) became inexistent or until the animal's death. After the end of the experiments, bilateral hind limb's biopsies were obtained for immunohistochemical analysis. Using image editing and analysis software, the expression of iNOS, eNOS, and HSP70 (3 well-known ischemic associated immunohistochemical markers) was assessed. The mean expression of each marker in the right hind limb was compared between groups. For statistical
MGA, L3MBTL2 and E2F6 determine genomic binding of the non-canonical Polycomb repressive complex PRC1.6

PubMed Central

Stielow, Bastian; Finkernagel, Florian; Stiewe, Thorsten

2018-01-01

Diverse Polycomb repressive complexes 1 (PRC1) play essential roles in gene regulation, differentiation and development. Six major groups of PRC1 complexes that differ in their subunit composition have been identified in mammals. How the different PRC1 complexes are recruited to specific genomic sites is poorly understood. The Polycomb Ring finger protein PCGF6, the transcription factors MGA and E2F6, and the histone-binding protein L3MBTL2 are specific components of the non-canonical PRC1.6 complex. In this study, we have investigated their role in genomic targeting of PRC1.6. ChIP-seq analysis revealed colocalization of MGA, L3MBTL2, E2F6 and PCGF6 genome-wide. Ablation of MGA in a human cell line by CRISPR/Cas resulted in complete loss of PRC1.6 binding. Rescue experiments revealed that MGA recruits PRC1.6 to specific loci both by DNA binding-dependent and by DNA binding-independent mechanisms. Depletion of L3MBTL2 and E2F6 but not of PCGF6 resulted in differential, locus-specific loss of PRC1.6 binding illustrating that different subunits mediate PRC1.6 loading to distinct sets of promoters. Mga, L3mbtl2 and Pcgf6 colocalize also in mouse embryonic stem cells, where PRC1.6 has been linked to repression of germ cell-related genes. Our findings unveil strikingly different genomic recruitment mechanisms of the non-canonical PRC1.6 complex, which specify its cell type- and context-specific regulatory functions. PMID:29381691
Thoughts on Internal and External Quality Assurance

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Zhang, Jianxin

2012-01-01

Quality assurance of higher education is made up of two parts: internal quality assurance (IQA) and external quality assurance (EQA). Both belong to a union of the coexistence and balance of yin and yang. But in reality there exists a paradox of "confusion of quality assurance (QA) subject consciousness, singularity of social QA and lack of QA…
42 CFR 438.362 - Exemption from external quality review.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 42 Public Health 4 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Exemption from external quality review. 438.362 Section 438.362 Public Health CENTERS FOR MEDICARE & MEDICAID SERVICES, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (CONTINUED) MEDICAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS MANAGED CARE External Quality Review § 438.362 Exemption...
42 CFR 438.362 - Exemption from external quality review.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 42 Public Health 4 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Exemption from external quality review. 438.362 Section 438.362 Public Health CENTERS FOR MEDICARE & MEDICAID SERVICES, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (CONTINUED) MEDICAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS MANAGED CARE External Quality Review § 438.362 Exemption...

Mild hydrothermal crystal growth of new uranium(IV) fluorides, Na3.13Mg1.43U6F30 and Na2.50Mn1.75U6F30: Structures, optical and magnetic properties

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yeon, Jeongho; Smith, Mark D.; Tapp, Joshua; Möller, Angela; zur Loye, Hans-Conrad

2016-04-01

Two new uranium(IV) fluorides, Na3.13Mg1.43U6F30 (1) and Na2.50Mn1.75U6F30 (2), were synthesized through an in situ mild hydrothermal route, and were structurally characterized by single crystal X-ray diffraction. The compounds exhibit complex crystal structures composed of corner- or edge-shared UF9 and MF6 (M=Mg, Mn) polyhedra, forming hexagonal channels in the three-dimensional framework, in which ordered or disordered divalent metal and sodium atoms reside. The large hexagonal voids contain the nearly regular M(II)F6 octahedra and sodium ions, whereas the small hexagonal cavities include M(II) and sodium ions on a mixed-occupied site. Magnetic susceptibility measurements yielded effective magnetic moments of 8.36 and 11.6 μB for 1 and 2, respectively, confirming the presence and oxidation states of U(IV) and Mn(II). The large negative Weiss constants indicate the spin gap between a triplet and a singlet state in the U(IV). Magnetization data as a function of applied fields revealed that 2 exhibits paramagnetic behavior due to the nonmagnetic singlet ground state of U(IV) at low temperature. UV-vis diffuse reflectance and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy data were also analyzed.
Energy correction factors of LiF powder TLDs irradiated in high-energy electron beams and applied to mailed dosimetry for quality assurance networks.

PubMed

Marre, D; Ferreira, I H; Bridier, A; Björeland, A; Svensson, H; Dutreix, A; Chavaudra, J

2000-12-01

Absorbed dose determination with thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLDs) generally relies on calibration in 60Co gamma-ray reference beams. The energy correction factor fCo(E) for electron beams takes into account the difference between the response of the TLD in the beam of energy E and in the 60Co gamma-ray beam. In this work, fCo(E) was evaluated for an LiF powder irradiated in electron beams of 6 to 20 MeV (Varian 2300C/D) and 10 to 50 MeV (Racetrack MM50), and its variation with electron energy, TLD size and nature of the surrounding medium was also studied for LiF powder. The results have been applied to the ESTRO-EQUAL mailed dosimetry quality assurance network. Monte Carlo calculations (EGS4, PENELOPE) and experiments have been performed for the LiF powder (rho = 1.4 g cm3) (DTL937, Philitech, France), read on a home made reader and a PCL3 automatic reader (Fimel, France). The TLDs were calibrated using Fricke dosimetry and compared with three ionization chambers (NE2571, NACP02, ROOS). The combined uncertainties in the experimental fCo(E) factors determined in this work are less than about 0.4% (1 SD), which is appreciably smaller than the uncertainties up to 1.4% (1 SD) reported for other calculated values in the literature. Concerning the Varian 2300C/D beams, the measured fCo(E) values decrease from 1.065 to 1.049 +/- 0.004 (1 SD) when the energy at depth in water increases from 2.6 to 14.1 MeV; the agreement with Monte Carlo calculations is better than 0.5%. For the Racetrack MM50 pulsed-scanned beams, the average experimental value of fCo(E) is 1.071 +/- 0.005 (1 SD) for a mean electron energy at depth Ez ranging from 4.3 to 36.3 MeV: fCo(E) is up to 2% higher for the MM50 beams than for the 2300C/D beams in the range of the tested energies. The energy correction factor for LiF powder (3 mm diameter and 15 mm length) varies with beam quality and type (pulsed or pulsed-scanning), cavity size and nature of the surrounding medium. The fCo(E) values obtained
Differences in the metabolism and disposition of inhaled (3H)benzene by F344/N rats and B6C3F1 mice

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

Sabourin, P.J.; Bechtold, W.E.; Birnbaum, L.S.

1988-06-15

Benzene is a potent hematotoxin and has been shown to cause leukemia in man. Chronic toxicity studies indicate that B6C3F1 mice are more susceptible than F334/N rats to benzene toxicity. The purpose of the studies presented in this paper was to determine if there were metabolic differences between F344/N rats and B6C3F1 mice which might be responsible for this increased susceptibility. Metabolites of benzene in blood, liver, lung, and bone marrow were measured during and following a 6-hr 50 ppm exposure to benzene vapor. Hydroquinone glucuronide, hydroquinone, and muconic acid, which reflect pathways leading to potential toxic metabolites of benzene,more » were present in much greater concentrations in the mouse than in rat tissues. Phenylsulfate, a detoxified metabolite, and an unknown water-soluble metabolite were present in approximately equal concentrations in these two species. These results indicate that the proportion of benzene metabolized via pathways leading to the formation of potentially toxic metabolites as opposed to detoxification pathways was much higher in B6C3F1 mice than in F344 rats, which may explain the higher susceptibility of mice to benzene-induced hematotoxicity and carcinogenicity.« less
[Standardization in laboratory hematology by participating in external quality assurance programs].

PubMed

Nazor, Aida; Siftar, Zoran; Flegar-Mestrić, Zlata

2011-09-01

Since 1985, Department of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Merkur University Hospital, Zagreb, has been participating in the International External Quality Assessment Scheme for Hematology (IEQAS-H) organized by the World Health Organization (WHO). Owing to very good results, in 1987 the Department received a certificate of participation in this control scheme. Department has been cooperating in the external quality assessment program in laboratory hematology which has been continuously performed in Croatia since 1986 by the Committee for External Quality Assessment Schemes under the auspices of the Croatian Society of Medical Biochemists and School of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, University of Zagreb. Nowadays, 186 medical biochemical laboratories are included in the National External Quality Assessment program, which is performed three times per year. Our Department has participated in the international projects of the European Committee for External Quality Assurance Programs in Laboratory Medicine (EQALM).
Immunohistochemical detection of XIAP in melanoma.

PubMed

Emanuel, Patrick O M; Phelps, Robert G; Mudgil, Adarsh; Shafir, Michail; Burstein, David E

2008-03-01

The X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein (XIAP) is the most potent of the inhibitor of apoptosis family of eight proteins. High levels of XIAP have been found in melanoma cell lines and are believed to play a role in therapeutic resistance in a number of malignancies. XIAP expression has not been investigated in clinically obtained melanoma tissue samples, nor have studies attempted to correlate XIAP expression with prognostic variables or clinical aggressiveness of melanomas. Sixty-seven patients with primary cutaneous malignant melanoma for whom clinical follow up was available were identified from the records of the Mount Sinai Hospital, comprising 37 thin melanomas (Breslow thickness < 1.0 mm) and 30 thick melanomas (Breslow thickness > 1.0 mm). Archival paraffin sections from primary lesions and corresponding metastases were stained with monoclonal anti-XIAP antibody using routine immunohistochemical methods. Six benign intradermal nevi and four in situ melanomas were XIAP negative. 9 of 37 thin melanomas (24%) were XIAP positive. In contrast, 21 of 30 (73%) thick melanomas were XIAP positive, including 3 of 4 ulcerated melanomas that were strongly positive. Over a follow-up period ranging from 6 months to 6 years, 23 melanomas metastasized (22 thick, 1 thin). In total, XIAP was immunohistochemically detected in 17 of 23 metastases (74%). Metastasis occurred in 1 of 9 XIAP-positive thin melanomas; 0 of 28 XIAP-negative thin melanomas; 17 of 22 XIAP-positive thick melanomas, and 5 of 8 XIAP-negative thick melanomas (63%). XIAP is immunohistochemically detectable nearly three times more frequently in thick compared with thin melanomas. These results suggest that XIAP elevation may be correlated with increasing melanoma thickness and tumor progression.
Technical proficiency in cytopathology: assessment through external quality assurance.

PubMed

Cummings, M C; Greaves, J; Shukor, R A; Perkins, G; Ross, J

2017-04-01

To assess both the feasibility and value of conducting an external quality assurance programme concerning technical aspects of cytopathology laboratory practice, and the interest by laboratories in enrolling in such a programme. Six technical surveys, comprising staining exercises and questionnaires relating to laboratory practice, were distributed over a 4-year period to the approximately 220 laboratories enrolled in the RCPAQAP Cytopathology slide survey modules. Staining exercises using the Papanicolaou and Romanowsky techniques, the preparation of urine and body fluid specimens and immunocytochemistry on the cell block material were assessed. Accompanying relevant questionnaires were included, and one survey comprised a questionnaire alone concerning the collection of urinary tract and body fluid samples. Provision of an external cytopathology technical module was feasible for the RCPAQAP and participation rates (maximum of 87% per survey; average 68% for stained slides and 66% for questionnaires) were commendable, particularly considering these were optional undertakings with some exercises not applicable to all laboratories. The great majority of submitted slides were scored as satisfactory, and there was an especially high standard for the immunocytochemical staining exercise with 95% considered satisfactory, including 50.6% with a perfect score. Reasons for suboptimal scores were provided for potential quality improvement for interested laboratories. A wealth of information relating to laboratory practice was provided to the RCPAQAP which was collated and summarised for laboratory use. The provision of a technical module in cytopathology is both a feasible and valuable undertaking of interest to laboratories which should become standard practice for cytopathology external quality assurance providers. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Comparative Study of Multiplet Structures of Mn4+ in K2SiF6, K2GeF6, and K2TiF6 Based on First-Principles Configuration-Interaction Calculations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Novita, Mega; Ogasawara, Kazuyoshi

2012-02-01

We performed first-principles configuration-interaction calculations of multiplet energies for Mn4+ in K2SiF6, K2GeF6, and K2TiF6 crystals. The results indicate that corrections based on a single-electron calculation are effective for the prediction of 4A2 → 4T2 and 4A2 → 4T1a transition energies, while such corrections are not necessary for the prediction of the 4A2 → 2E transition energy. The cluster size dependence of the multiplet energies is small. However, the 4A2 → 2E transition energy is slightly improved by using larger clusters including K ions. The theoretical multiplet energies are improved further by considering the lattice relaxation effect. As a result, the characteristic multiplet energy shifts depending on the host crystal are well reproduced without using any empirical parameters. Although K2GeF6 and K2TiF6 have lower symmetry than K2SiF6, the results indicate that the variation of the multiplet energy is mainly determined by the Mn-F bond length.
Analytical performance specifications for external quality assessment - definitions and descriptions.

PubMed

Jones, Graham R D; Albarede, Stephanie; Kesseler, Dagmar; MacKenzie, Finlay; Mammen, Joy; Pedersen, Morten; Stavelin, Anne; Thelen, Marc; Thomas, Annette; Twomey, Patrick J; Ventura, Emma; Panteghini, Mauro

2017-06-27

External Quality Assurance (EQA) is vital to ensure acceptable analytical quality in medical laboratories. A key component of an EQA scheme is an analytical performance specification (APS) for each measurand that a laboratory can use to assess the extent of deviation of the obtained results from the target value. A consensus conference held in Milan in 2014 has proposed three models to set APS and these can be applied to setting APS for EQA. A goal arising from this conference is the harmonisation of EQA APS between different schemes to deliver consistent quality messages to laboratories irrespective of location and the choice of EQA provider. At this time there are wide differences in the APS used in different EQA schemes for the same measurands. Contributing factors to this variation are that the APS in different schemes are established using different criteria, applied to different types of data (e.g. single data points, multiple data points), used for different goals (e.g. improvement of analytical quality; licensing), and with the aim of eliciting different responses from participants. This paper provides recommendations from the European Federation of Laboratory Medicine (EFLM) Task and Finish Group on Performance Specifications for External Quality Assurance Schemes (TFG-APSEQA) and on clear terminology for EQA APS. The recommended terminology covers six elements required to understand APS: 1) a statement on the EQA material matrix and its commutability; 2) the method used to assign the target value; 3) the data set to which APS are applied; 4) the applicable analytical property being assessed (i.e. total error, bias, imprecision, uncertainty); 5) the rationale for the selection of the APS; and 6) the type of the Milan model(s) used to set the APS. The terminology is required for EQA participants and other interested parties to understand the meaning of meeting or not meeting APS.
CARCINOGENICITY OF BROMODICHLOROMETHANE ADMINISTERED IN DRINKING WATER TO MALE F344/N RATS AND B6C3F1 MICE

EPA Science Inventory

A life-time exposure study was conducted to assess the carcinogenicity of bromodichloromethane (BDCM) administered in the drinking water to male F344/N rats and B6C3F1 mice. Mouse: Target concentrations of BDCM (dissolved in deionized water containing 0.25% emulphor) were 0.05, ...
Centrosymmetric [N(CH3)4]2TiF6 vs. noncentrosymmetric polar [C(NH2)3]2TiF6: A hydrogen-bonding effect on the out-of-center distortion of TiF6 octahedra

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Eun-ah; Lee, Dong Woo; Ok, Kang Min

2012-11-01

The syntheses, structures, and characterization of organically templated zero-dimensional titanium fluoride materials, A2TiF6 (A[N(CH3)4] or [C(NH2)3]), are reported. Phase pure samples of A2TiF6 were synthesized by either solvothermal reaction method or a simple mixing method. While [N(CH3)4]2TiF6 crystallizes in a centrosymmetric space group, R-3, [C(NH2)3]2TiF6 crystallizes in a noncentrosymmetric polar space group, Cm. The asymmetric out-of-center distortion of TiF6 octahedra in polar [C(NH2)3]2TiF6 are attributable to the hydrogen-bonding interactions between the fluorine atoms in TiF6 octahedra and the nitrogen atoms in the [C(NH2)3]+ cation. Powder second-harmonic generation (SHG) measurements on the [C(NH2)3]2TiF6, using 1064 nm radiation, indicate the material has SHG efficiency of 25× that of α-SiO2, which indicates an average nonlinear optical susceptibility, exp of 2.8 pm/V. Additional SHG measurements reveal that the material is not phase-matchable (Type 1). The magnitudes of out-of-center distortions and dipole moment calculations for TiF6 octahedra will be also reported.
Mild hydrothermal crystal growth of new uranium(IV) fluorides, Na{sub 3.13}Mg{sub 1.43}U{sub 6}F{sub 30} and Na{sub 2.50}Mn{sub 1.75}U{sub 6}F{sub 30}: Structures, optical and magnetic properties

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

Yeon, Jeongho; Smith, Mark D.; Tapp, Joshua

Two new uranium(IV) fluorides, Na{sub 3.13}Mg{sub 1.43}U{sub 6}F{sub 30} (1) and Na{sub 2.50}Mn{sub 1.75}U{sub 6}F{sub 30} (2), were synthesized through an in situ mild hydrothermal route, and were structurally characterized by single crystal X-ray diffraction. The compounds exhibit complex crystal structures composed of corner- or edge-shared UF{sub 9} and MF{sub 6} (M=Mg, Mn) polyhedra, forming hexagonal channels in the three-dimensional framework, in which ordered or disordered divalent metal and sodium atoms reside. The large hexagonal voids contain the nearly regular M(II)F{sub 6} octahedra and sodium ions, whereas the small hexagonal cavities include M(II) and sodium ions on a mixed-occupied site.more » Magnetic susceptibility measurements yielded effective magnetic moments of 8.36 and 11.6 µ{sub B} for 1 and 2, respectively, confirming the presence and oxidation states of U(IV) and Mn(II). The large negative Weiss constants indicate the spin gap between a triplet and a singlet state in the U(IV). Magnetization data as a function of applied fields revealed that 2 exhibits paramagnetic behavior due to the nonmagnetic singlet ground state of U(IV) at low temperature. UV–vis diffuse reflectance and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy data were also analyzed. - Graphical abstract: Two new quaternary U(IV) fluorides, Na{sub 3.13}Mg{sub 1.43}U{sub 6}F{sub 30} and Na{sub 2.50}Mn{sub 1.75}U{sub 6}F{sub 30}, were crystallized via an in situ reduction step of U(VI) to U(IV) under mild hydrothermal conditions. The compounds show complex crystal structures based on the 3-D building block of U{sub 6}F{sub 30}. Magnetic property measurements revealed that the U(IV) exhibits a nonmagnetic singlet ground state at low temperature with a spin gap. - Highlights: • Na{sub 3.13}Mg{sub 1.43}U{sub 6}F{sub 30} and Na{sub 2.50}Mn{sub 1.75}U{sub 6}F{sub 30} have been synthesized and characterized. • The U(IV) fluorides exhibit complex three-dimensional crystal structures. �
External Quality Assessment for Rubella Virus RNA Detection Using Armored RNA in China.

PubMed

Zhang, D; Lin, G; Yi, L; Hao, M; Fan, G; Yang, X; Peng, R; Ding, J; Zhang, K; Zhang, R; Li, J

2017-02-01

Although tremendous efforts have been made to reduce rubella incidence, there are still 300 new cases of congenital rubella syndrome daily; thus, rubella infections remain one of the leading causes of preventable congenital birth defects. An effective surveillance system, which could be achieved and maintained by using an external quality assessment program, is critical for prevention and control of this disease. Armored RNAs, which are noninfectious and RNase-resistant, were used for encapsulation of the E1 gene of rubella virus and for preparation of a 10-specimen panel for external quality assessment. Thirty-two laboratories across mainland China that used nucleic acid tests for rubella virus RNA detection were included in the external quality assessment program organized by the National Center for Clinical Laboratories of China. Different kinds of commercial kits were used by the laboratories for nucleic acid extraction and TaqMan real-time reverse-transcription PCR for rubella virus RNA detection; 99.2% sensitivity and 100% specificity were achieved in this external quality assessment program. Most of the participating laboratories obtained accurate results for rubella nucleic acid tests, thereby achieving the quality required for regional rubella and congenital rubella syndrome elimination.
Hybrid External Fixation for Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Osteosynthesefragen (AO) 43-C Tibial Plafond Fractures.

PubMed

Abd-Almageed, Emad; Marwan, Yousef; Esmaeel, Ali; Mallur, Amarnath; El-Alfy, Barakat

2015-01-01

Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Osteosynthesefragen (AO) type 43-C tibial plafond/pilon fractures represent a challenge for the treating orthopedic surgeon. We assessed the outcomes of using hybrid external fixation for this fracture type. The present prospective cohort study was started in August 2009 and ended by July 2012. Thirty consecutive patients (mean age 37.4 ± 10.7 years) with a type C tibial plafond fracture who had presented to our tertiary care orthopedic hospital were included. Motor vehicle accidents and fall from height were the cause of the fracture in 14 (46.7%) and 13 (43.3%) patients, respectively. A type C3 fracture was present in 25 patients (83.3%), and type C1 and C2 fractures were present in 2 (6.7%) and 3 (10.0%) patients, respectively. Nine fractures (30.0%) were open. Hybrid external fixation was used for all fractures. All fractures were united; clinical healing was achieved by a mean of 18.1 ± 2.2 weeks postoperatively and radiologic healing at a mean of 18.9 ± 1.9 weeks. The fixator was removed at a mean of 20.4 ± 2.0 weeks postoperatively. At a mean follow-up point of 13.4 ± 2.6 months, the mean modified Mazur ankle score was 84.6 ± 10.4. It was not associated with wound classification (p = .256). The most commonly seen complication was ankle osteoarthritis (17 patients; 56.7%); however, it was mild in >50.0% of the affected patients. In conclusion, using hybrid external fixation for type C tibial plafond fractures resulted in good outcomes. However, this should be investigated further in studies with a higher level of evidence. Copyright © 2015 American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Expression of DNA mismatch repair proteins MLH1, MSH2, and MSH6 in recurrent glioblastoma.

PubMed

Stark, Andreas M; Doukas, Alexander; Hugo, Heinz-Herrmann; Hedderich, Jürgen; Hattermann, Kirsten; Maximilian Mehdorn, H; Held-Feindt, Janka

2015-02-01

Methylated O6-methylguanin-DNA-methytransferase (MGMT) promoter methylation is associated with survival in patients with glioblastoma. Current evidence suggests that further mismatch repair genes play a pivotal role in the tumor response to treatment. Candidate genes are MLH1, MSH2, and MSH6. Formerly, we found evidence of prognostic impact of MLH1 and MSH6 immunohistochemical expression in a small series of patients with initial glioblastoma. Two hundred and eleven patients were included who underwent macroscopically total removal of primary glioblastoma and at least one re-craniotomy for recurrence. Immunohistochemical staining was performed on paraffin-embedded specimens of initial tumors with specific antibodies against MLH1, MSH2, and MSH6. RESULTS were compared to the Ki67 proliferation index and patient survival. Additionally, fresh frozen samples from 16 paired initial and recurrent specimens were examined using real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) with specific primers against MLH1, MSH2, and MSH6. RESULTS were compared to MGMT status and survival. (1) Immunohistochemical expression of MSH6 was significantly associated with the Ki67 proliferation index (P<0.001) but not with survival. (2) PCR revealed two patients with increasing expression of MLH1, MLH2, and MSH6 over treatment combined with lacking MGMT methylation. In another two patients, decreased MLH1, MSH2, and MSH6 expression was observed in combination with MGMT promoter methylation. Our data indicate that there may be glioblastoma patient subgroups characterized by MMR-expression changes beyond MGMT promoter methylation. The immunohistochemical expression of MLH1, MSH2, and MSH6 in initial glioblastoma is not associated with patient survival.
f1: a code to compute Appell's F1 hypergeometric function

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Colavecchia, F. D.; Gasaneo, G.

2004-02-01

In this work we present the FORTRAN code to compute the hypergeometric function F1( α, β1, β2, γ, x, y) of Appell. The program can compute the F1 function for real values of the variables { x, y}, and complex values of the parameters { α, β1, β2, γ}. The code uses different strategies to calculate the function according to the ideas outlined in [F.D. Colavecchia et al., Comput. Phys. Comm. 138 (1) (2001) 29]. Program summaryTitle of the program: f1 Catalogue identifier: ADSJ Program summary URL:http://cpc.cs.qub.ac.uk/summaries/ADSJ Program obtainable from: CPC Program Library, Queen's University of Belfast, N. Ireland Licensing provisions: none Computers: PC compatibles, SGI Origin2∗ Operating system under which the program has been tested: Linux, IRIX Programming language used: Fortran 90 Memory required to execute with typical data: 4 kbytes No. of bits in a word: 32 No. of bytes in distributed program, including test data, etc.: 52 325 Distribution format: tar gzip file External subprograms used: Numerical Recipes hypgeo [W.H. Press et al., Numerical Recipes in Fortran 77, Cambridge Univ. Press, 1996] or chyp routine of R.C. Forrey [J. Comput. Phys. 137 (1997) 79], rkf45 [L.F. Shampine and H.H. Watts, Rep. SAND76-0585, 1976]. Keywords: Numerical methods, special functions, hypergeometric functions, Appell functions, Gauss function Nature of the physical problem: Computing the Appell F1 function is relevant in atomic collisions and elementary particle physics. It is usually the result of multidimensional integrals involving Coulomb continuum states. Method of solution: The F1 function has a convergent-series definition for | x|<1 and | y|<1, and several analytic continuations for other regions of the variable space. The code tests the values of the variables and selects one of the precedent cases. In the convergence region the program uses the series definition near the origin of coordinates, and a numerical integration of the third-order differential
[Analysis of the results of the SEIMC External Quality Control Program. Year 2013].

PubMed

de Gopegui Bordes, Enrique Ruiz; Orta Mira, Nieves; Del Remedio Guna Serrano, M; Medina González, Rafael; Rosario Ovies, María; Poveda, Marta; Gimeno Cardona, Concepción

2015-07-01

The External Quality Control Program of the Spanish Society of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology (SEIMC) include controls for bacteriology, serology, mycology, parasitology, mycobacteria, virology, molecular microbiology and HIV-1, HCV and HBV viral loads. This manuscript presents the analysis of results obtained of the participants from the 2013 SEIMC External Quality Control Programme, except viral loads controls, that they are summarized in a manuscript abroad. As a whole, the results obtained in 2013 confirm the excellent skill and good technical standards found in previous editions. However, erroneous results can be obtained in any laboratory and in clinically relevant determinations. Once again, the results of this program highlighted the need to implement both internal and external controls in order to assure the maximal quality of the microbiological tests. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.
SU-F-T-232: Monthly Quality Assurance in External Beam Radiation Therapy Using a Single System

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

Ding, K; Ji, T; Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning

Purpose: Monthly quality assurance (QA) is time consuming for external beam radiation therapy, taking as long as 6–8 hours for each machine. It is due to the use and setup of multiple devices for different QA procedures. We have developed a single system with rotational capability for the measurement of both optical light and radiation which significantly reduces the time spent on Monthly QA. Methods: A single system using mirrors, a phosphor screen and a CCD camera is housed on a cylindrical motor so that it can rotate 360 degrees. For monthly QA, the system is placed on the patientmore » couch of the medical accelerator with the plane of the phosphor screen at isocenter for all measurements. For optical QA such as optical distance indicator, room laser and light field, the optical image is collected directly with the camera. For radiation QA such as beam profile, MLC speed, picket-fence test, collimator rotation, table rotation and gantry rotation, a brass build-up plate is attached to the top of the phosphor screen. Two brass plates with islands of different thickness were designed for photon energy and electron energy constancy checks. Flex map, distortion map and uniformity map were developed to calibrate the motor bearing, camera/lens distortion, and the phosphor screen’s measured response across the field. Results: Following the TG142 guidelines for monthly QA with our system, the overall run time is reduced from 6–8 hours to 1.5 hours. Our system’s rotating design allows for quick testing of the gantry radiation isocenter test that is also independent of the sag of the gantry and the EPID. Conclusion: Our system significantly shortens the time needed for monthly QA by unifying the tests with a single system. Future work will be focused on extending the technology to Brachytherapy, IMRT and proton therapy QAs. This work is funded in part by a sponsor research grant from JPLC who owns the Raven technology. John Wong is a co-founder of JPLC.« less
Steroidogenic Factor 1, Pit-1, and Adrenocorticotropic Hormone: A Rational Starting Place for the Immunohistochemical Characterization of Pituitary Adenoma.

PubMed

McDonald, William C; Banerji, Nilanjana; McDonald, Kelsey N; Ho, Bridget; Macias, Virgilia; Kajdacsy-Balla, Andre

2017-01-01

-Pituitary adenoma classification is complex, and diagnostic strategies vary greatly from laboratory to laboratory. No optimal diagnostic algorithm has been defined. -To develop a panel of immunohistochemical (IHC) stains that provides the optimal combination of cost, accuracy, and ease of use. -We examined 136 pituitary adenomas with stains of steroidogenic factor 1 (SF-1), Pit-1, anterior pituitary hormones, cytokeratin CAM5.2, and α subunit of human chorionic gonadotropin. Immunohistochemical staining was scored using the Allred system. Adenomas were assigned to a gold standard class based on IHC results and available clinical and serologic information. Correlation and cluster analyses were used to develop an algorithm for parsimoniously classifying adenomas. -The algorithm entailed a 1- or 2-step process: (1) a screening step consisting of IHC stains for SF-1, Pit-1, and adrenocorticotropic hormone; and (2) when screening IHC pattern and clinical history were not clearly gonadotrophic (SF-1 positive only), corticotrophic (adrenocorticotropic hormone positive only), or IHC null cell (negative-screening IHC), we subsequently used IHC for prolactin, growth hormone, thyroid-stimulating hormone, and cytokeratin CAM5.2. -Comparison between diagnoses generated by our algorithm and the gold standard diagnoses showed excellent agreement. When compared with a commonly used panel using 6 IHC for anterior pituitary hormones plus IHC for a low-molecular-weight cytokeratin in certain tumors, our algorithm uses approximately one-third fewer IHC stains and detects gonadotroph adenomas with greater sensitivity.
28Silicon Irradiation Impairs Contextual Fear Memory in B6D2F1 Mice.

PubMed

Raber, Jacob; Marzulla, Tessa; Stewart, Blair; Kronenberg, Amy; Turker, Mitchell S

2015-06-01

The space radiation environment consists of multiple species of charged particles, including (28)Si, (48)Ti and protons that may impact cognition, but their damaging effects have been poorly defined. In mouse studies, C57Bl6/J homozygous wild-type mice and genetic mutant mice on a C57Bl6/J background have typically been used for assessing effects of space radiation on cognition. In contrast, little is known about the radiation response of mice on a heterozygous background. Therefore, in the current study we tested the effects of (28)Si, (48)Ti and proton radiation on hippocampus-dependent contextual fear memory and hippocampus-independent cued fear memory in C57Bl6/J × DBA2/J F1 (B6D2F1) mice three months after irradiation. Contextual fear memory was impaired at a 1.6 Gy dose of (28)Si radiation, but not cued fear memory. (48)Ti or proton irradiation did not affect either type of memory. Based on earlier space radiation cognitive data in C57Bl6/J mice, these data highlight the importance of including different genetic backgrounds in studies aimed at assessing cognitive changes after exposure to space radiation.
48 CFR 47.303-6 - F.o.b. destination.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 1 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false F.o.b. destination. 47.303... MANAGEMENT TRANSPORTATION Transportation in Supply Contracts 47.303-6 F.o.b. destination. (a) Explanation of delivery term. F.o.b. destination means— (1) Free of expense to the Government delivered, on board the...

Toxicology and carcinogenesis studies of acrylamide (CASRN 79-06-1) in F344/N rats and B6C3F1 mice (feed and drinking water studies).

PubMed

2012-07-01

Acrylamide, a water-soluble α,β-unsaturated amide, is a contaminant in baked and fried starchy foods, including french fries, potato chips, and bread, as a result of Maillard reactions involving asparagine and reducing sugars. Additional sources of acrylamide exposure include cigarettes, laboratory procedures involving polyacrylamide gels, and various occupations (e.g, monomer production and polymerization processes). Acrylamide is carcinogenic in experimental animals. To obtain data for developing quantitative risk assessments for dietary exposures to acrylamide, the Food and Drug Administration nominated acrylamide for an in-depth toxicological evaluation by the National Toxicology Program. As part of this evaluation, male and female B6C3F1/Nctr (C57BL/6N x C3H/HeN MTV-) mice and male and female F344/N Nctr rats were exposed to acrylamide (at least 99.4% pure) in drinking water for 2 years. 2-WEEK STUDY IN RATS: Groups of four male and four female F344/N rats were administered 0, 0.14, 0.35, 0.70, 1.41, 3.52, or 7.03 mM acrylamide in the drinking water (0, 10, 25, 50, 100, 250, or 500 ppm acrylamide) or 0.0, 7.4, 18.5, 37, 74, 185, or 370 mg acrylamide per kg diet for 14 days. One male rat administered 7.03 mM acrylamide in the drinking water died on day 14. Male and female rats receiving 7.03 mM acrylamide weighed 56% and 64% of controls, respectively. Male and female rats fed 370 mg acrylamide per kg diet weighed 74% and 83% of controls, respectively. Female rats receiving 3.52 mM acrylamide in drinking water and male rats fed 185 mg acrylamide per kg diet weighed 85% and 89% of controls, respectively. Rats receiving 7.03 mM acrylamide in drinking water or 370 mg acrylamide per kg diet exhibited hind-leg paralysis on day 14. Mild to moderate dilatation of the urinary bladder was observed in all rats given 370 mg acrylamide per kg diet, and in three of four male rats and all four female rats given 7.03 mM acrylamide in drinking water, and in one of four male
42 CFR 438.364 - External quality review results.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 42 Public Health 4 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false External quality review results. 438.364 Section 438.364 Public Health CENTERS FOR MEDICARE & MEDICAID SERVICES, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN... quality review results. (a) Information that must be produced. The State must ensure that the EQR produces...
42 CFR 438.364 - External quality review results.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 42 Public Health 4 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false External quality review results. 438.364 Section 438.364 Public Health CENTERS FOR MEDICARE & MEDICAID SERVICES, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN... quality review results. (a) Information that must be produced. The State must ensure that the EQR produces...
42 CFR 438.364 - External quality review results.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 42 Public Health 4 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false External quality review results. 438.364 Section 438.364 Public Health CENTERS FOR MEDICARE & MEDICAID SERVICES, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN... quality review results. (a) Information that must be produced. The State must ensure that the EQR produces...
42 CFR 438.364 - External quality review results.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 42 Public Health 4 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false External quality review results. 438.364 Section 438.364 Public Health CENTERS FOR MEDICARE & MEDICAID SERVICES, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN... quality review results. (a) Information that must be produced. The State must ensure that the EQR produces...
42 CFR 438.364 - External quality review results.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 42 Public Health 4 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false External quality review results. 438.364 Section 438.364 Public Health CENTERS FOR MEDICARE & MEDICAID SERVICES, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN... quality review results. (a) Information that must be produced. The State must ensure that the EQR produces...
Pressure-induced magnetic collapse and metallization of TlF e1.6S e2

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Naumov, P. G.; Filsinger, K.; Shylin, S. I.; Barkalov, O. I.; Ksenofontov, V.; Qi, Y.; Palasyuk, T.; Schnelle, W.; Medvedev, S. A.; Greenblatt, M.; Felser, C.

2017-08-01

The crystal structure, magnetic ordering, and electrical resistivity of TlF e1.6S e2 were studied at high pressures. Below ˜7 GPa , TlF e1.6S e2 is an antiferromagnetically ordered semiconductor with a ThC r2S i2 -type structure. The insulator-to-metal transformation observed at a pressure of ˜7 GPa is accompanied by a loss of magnetic ordering and an isostructural phase transition. In the pressure range ˜7.5 -11 GPa a remarkable downturn in resistivity, which resembles a superconducting transition, is observed below 15 K. We discuss this feature as the possible onset of superconductivity originating from a phase separation in a small fraction of the sample in the vicinity of the magnetic transition.
Optically pumped cerium-doped LiSrAlF.sub.6 and LiCaAlF.sub.6

DOEpatents

Marshall, Christopher D.; Payne, Stephen A.; Krupke, William F.

1996-01-01

Ce.sup.3+ -doped LiSrAlF.sub.6 crystals are pumped by ultraviolet light which is polarized along the c axis of the crystals to effectively energize the laser system. In one embodiment, the polarized fourth harmonic light output from a conventional Nd:YAG laser operating at 266 nm is arranged to pump Ce:LiSrAlF.sub.6 with the pump light polarized along the c axis of the crystal. The Ce:LiSrAlF.sub.6 crystal may be placed in a laser cavity for generating tunable coherent ultraviolet radiation in the range of 280-320 nm. Additionally, Ce-doped crystals possessing the LiSrAlF.sub.6 type of chemical formula, e.g. Ce-doped LiCaAlF.sub.6 and LiSrGaF.sub.6, can be used. Alternative pump sources include an ultraviolet-capable krypton or argon laser, or ultraviolet emitting flashlamps. The polarization of the pump light will impact operation. The laser system will operate efficiently when light in the 280-320 nm gain region is injected or recirculated in the system such that the beam is also polarized along the c axis of the crystal. The Ce:LiSrAlF.sub.6 laser system can be configured to generate ultrashort pulses, and it may be used to pump other devices, such as an optical parametric oscillator.
Rate coefficients for the reaction of O(1D) with the atmospherically long-lived greenhouse gases NF3, SF3CF3, CHF3, C2F6, c-C3F8, n-C5F12, and n-C6F14

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Baasandorj, M.; Hall, B. D.; Burkholder, J. B.

2012-09-01

The contribution of atmospherically persistent (long-lived) greenhouse gases to the radiative forcing of Earth has increased over the past several decades. The impact of highly fluorinated saturated compounds, in particular perfluorinated compounds, on climate change is a concern because of their long atmospheric lifetimes, which are primarily determined by stratospheric loss processes, as well as their strong absorption in the infrared "window" region. A potentially key stratospheric loss process for these compounds is their gas-phase reaction with electronically excited oxygen atoms, O(1D). Therefore, accurate reaction rate coefficient data is desired for input to climate change models. In this work, rate coefficients, k, were measured for the reaction of O(1D) with several key long-lived greenhouse gases, namely NF3, SF5CF3, CHF3 (HFC-23), C2F6, c-C4F8, n-C5F12, and n-C6F14. Room temperature rate coefficients for the total reaction, kTot, corresponding to loss of O(1D), and reactive channel, kR, corresponding to the loss of the reactant compound, were measured for NF3 and SF5CF3 using competitive reaction and relative rate methods, respectively. kR was measured for the CHF3 reaction and improved upper-limits were determined for the perfluorinated compounds included in this study. For NF3, kTot was determined to be (2.55 ± 0.38) × 10-11 cm3 molecule-1 s-1 and kR, which was measured using CF3Cl, N2O, CF2ClCF2Cl (CFC-114), and CF3CFCl2 (CFC-114a) as reference compounds, was determined to be (2.21 ± 0.33) × 10-11 cm3 molecule-1 s-1 corresponding to a reactive branching ratio of 0.87 ± 0.13. For SF5CF3, kTot = (3.24 ± 0.50) × 10-13 cm3 molecule-1 s-1 and kR < 5.8 × 10-14 cm3 molecule-1 s-1 were measured, where kR is a factor of three lower than the current recommendation of kTot for use in atmospheric modeling. For CHF3, kR was determined to be (2.35 ± 0.35) × 10-12 cm3 molecule-1 s-1, which corresponds to a reactive channel yield of 0.26 ± 0.04, and
Biotransformation of ginsenosides F4 and Rg6 in zebrafish.

PubMed

Shen, Wen-Wen; Zhang, Hai-Xia; Qiu, Shou-Bei; Wei, Ying-Jie; Zhu, Fen-Xia; Wang, Jing; Wang, Dan-Dan; Jia, Xiao-Bin; Tang, Dao-Quan; Chen, Bin

2017-03-28

Ginsenosides F 4 and Rg 6 (GF 4 and GRg 6 ), two main active components of steamed notoginseng or red ginseng, are dehydrated disaccharide saponins. In this work, biotransformation of ginsenosides F 4 and Rg 6 in zebrafish was investigated by qualitatively identifying their metabolites and then proposing their possible metabolic pathways. The prediction of possible metabolism of ginsenosides F 4 and Rg 6 using zebrafish model which can effectively simulate existing mammals model was early and quickly performed. Metabolites of ginsenosides F 4 and Rg 6 after exposing to zebrafish for 24 h were identified by Ultraperformance Liquid Chromatography/Quadrupole-Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry. A total of 8 and 6 metabolites of ginsenosides F 4 and Rg 6 were identified in zebrafish, respectively. Of these, 7 and 5, including M1, M3-M5, M7-M9 and N1 (N5), N2, N4 (N9), N7-N8 were reported for the first time as far as we know. The mechanisms of their biotransformation involved were further deduced to be desugarization, glucuronidation, sulfation, dehydroxylation, loss of C-17 and/or C-23 residue pathways. It was concluded that loss of rhamnose at position C-6 and glucuronidation at position C-3 in zebrafish were considered as the main physiologic and metabolic processes of ginsenosides F 4 and ginsenosides Rg 6 , respectively.
X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy as detection tool for coordinated or uncoordinated fluorine atoms demonstrated on fluoride systems NaF, K2TaF7, K3TaF8, K2ZrF6, Na7Zr6F31 and K3ZrF7

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Boča, Miroslav; Barborík, Peter; Mičušík, Matej; Omastová, Mária

2012-07-01

While systems K3TaF8 and K3ZrF7 were prepared by modified molten salt method modified wet pathway was used for reproducible preparation of Na7Zr6F31. Its congruently melting character was demonstrated on simultaneous TG/DSC measurements and XRD patterns. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy was applied for identification of differently bonded fluorine atoms in series of compounds NaF, K2TaF7, K3TaF8, K2ZrF6, Na7Zr6F31 and K3ZrF7. Three different types of fluorine atoms were described qualitatively and quantitatively. Uncoordinated fluorine atoms (F-) provide signals at lowest binding energies, followed by signals from terminally coordinated fluorine atoms (M-F) and then bridging fluorine atoms (M-F-M) at highest energy. Based on XPS F 1s signals assigned to fluorine atoms in compounds with correctly determined structure it was suggested that fluorine atoms in K3ZrF7 have partially bridging character.
Optically pumped cerium-doped LiSrAlF{sub 6} and LiCaAlF{sub 6}

DOEpatents

Marshall, C.D.; Payne, S.A.; Krupke, W.F.

1996-05-14

Ce{sup 3+}-doped LiSrAlF{sub 6} crystals are pumped by ultraviolet light which is polarized along the c axis of the crystals to effectively energize the laser system. In one embodiment, the polarized fourth harmonic light output from a conventional Nd:YAG laser operating at 266 nm is arranged to pump Ce:LiSrAlF{sub 6} with the pump light polarized along the c axis of the crystal. The Ce:LiSrAlF{sub 6} crystal may be placed in a laser cavity for generating tunable coherent ultraviolet radiation in the range of 280-320 nm. Additionally, Ce-doped crystals possessing the LiSrAlF{sub 6} type of chemical formula, e.g. Ce-doped LiCaAlF{sub 6} and LiSrGaF{sub 6}, can be used. Alternative pump sources include an ultraviolet-capable krypton or argon laser, or ultraviolet emitting flashlamps. The polarization of the pump light will impact operation. The laser system will operate efficiently when light in the 280-320 nm gain region is injected or recirculated in the system such that the beam is also polarized along the c axis of the crystal. The Ce:LiSrAlF{sub 6} laser system can be configured to generate ultrashort pulses, and it may be used to pump other devices, such as an optical parametric oscillator. 10 figs.
Stiffness of γ subunit of F(1)-ATPase.

PubMed

Okuno, Daichi; Iino, Ryota; Noji, Hiroyuki

2010-11-01

F(1)-ATPase is a molecular motor in which the γ subunit rotates inside the α(3)β(3) ring upon adenosine triphosphate (ATP) hydrolysis. Recent works on single-molecule manipulation of F(1)-ATPase have shown that kinetic parameters such as the on-rate of ATP and the off-rate of adenosine diphosphate (ADP) strongly depend on the rotary angle of the γ subunit (Hirono-Hara et al. 2005; Iko et al. 2009). These findings provide important insight into how individual reaction steps release energy to power F(1) and also have implications regarding ATP synthesis and how reaction steps are reversed upon reverse rotation. An important issue regarding the angular dependence of kinetic parameters is that the angular position of a magnetic bead rotation probe could be larger than the actual position of the γ subunit due to the torsional elasticity of the system. In the present study, we assessed the stiffness of two different portions of F(1) from thermophilic Bacillus PS3: the internal part of the γ subunit embedded in the α(3)β(3) ring, and the complex of the external part of the γ subunit and the α(3)β(3) ring (and streptavidin and magnetic bead), by comparing rotational fluctuations before and after crosslinkage between the rotor and stator. The torsional stiffnesses of the internal and remaining parts were determined to be around 223 and 73 pNnm/radian, respectively. Based on these values, it was estimated that the actual angular position of the internal part of the γ subunit is one-fourth of the magnetic bead position upon stalling using an external magnetic field. The estimated elasticity also partially explains the accommodation of the intrinsic step size mismatch between F(o) and F(1)-ATPase.
Mismatch Repair Proteins and Microsatellite Instability in Colorectal Carcinoma (MLH1, MSH2, MSH6 and PMS2): Histopathological and Immunohistochemical Study.

PubMed

Ismael, Nour El Hoda S; El Sheikh, Samar A; Talaat, Suzan M; Salem, Eman M

2017-03-15

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common cancers worldwide. Microsatellite instability (MSI) is detected in about 15% of all colorectal cancers. CRC with MSI has particular characteristics such as improved survival rates and better prognosis. They also have a distinct sensitivity to the action of chemotherapy. The aim of the study was to detect microsatellite instability in a cohort of colorectal cancer Egyptian patients using the immunohistochemical expression of mismatch repair proteins (MLH1, MSH2, MSH6 and PMS2). Cases were divided into Microsatellite stable (MSS), Microsatellite unstable low (MSI-L) and Microsatellite unstable high (MSI-H). This Microsatellite stability status was correlated with different clinicopathological parameters. There was a statistically significant correlation between the age of cases, tumor site & grade and the microsatellite stability status. There was no statistically significant correlation between the gender of patients, tumor subtype, stage, mucoid change, necrosis, tumor borders, lymphocytic response, lymphovascular emboli and the microsatellite stability status. Testing for MSI should be done for all colorectal cancer patients, especially those younger than 50 years old, right sided and high-grade CRCs.
Ten Years of External Quality Audit in Australia: Evaluating Its Effectiveness and Success

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Shah, Mahsood

2012-01-01

External quality audits are now being used in universities across the world to improve quality assurance, accountability for quality education and transparency of public funding of higher education. Some countries such as Australia, New Zealand, United Kingdom, Sweden and Denmark have had external quality audits for more than a decade but there…
E6/E7-P53-POU2F1-CTHRC1 axis promotes cervical cancer metastasis and activates Wnt/PCP pathway

PubMed Central

Zhang, Rong; Lu, Huan; Lyu, Yuan-yuan; Yang, Xiao-mei; Zhu, Lin-yan; Yang, Guang-dong; Jiang, Peng-cheng; Re, Yuan; Song, Wei-wei; Wang, Jin-hao; Zhang, Can-can; Gu, Fei; Luo, Tian-jiao; Wu, Zhi-yong; Xu, Cong-jian

2017-01-01

Cervical cancer is an infectious cancer and the most common gynecologic cancer worldwide. E6/E7, the early genes of the high-risk mucosal human papillomavirus type, play key roles in the carcinogenic process of cervical cancer. However, little was known about its roles in modulating tumor microenvironment, particular extracellular matrix (ECM). In this study, we found that E6/E7 could regulate multiple ECM proteins, especially collagen triple helix repeat containing 1 (CTHRC1). CTHRC1 is highly expressed in cervical cancer tissue and serum and closely correlated with clinicopathological parameters. CTHRC1 promotes cervical cancer cell migration and invasion in vitro and metastasis in vivo. E6/E7 regulates the expression of CTHRC1 in cervical cancer by E6/E7-p53-POU2F1 (POU class 2 homeobox 1) axis. Futhermore, CTHRC1 activates Wnt/PCP signaling pathway. Take together, E6/E7-p53-POU2F1-CTHRC1 axis promotes cervical cancer cell invasion and metastasis and may act as a potential therapeutic target for interventions against cervical cancer invasion and metastasis. PMID:28303973
Rate coefficients for the reaction of O(1D) with the atmospherically long-lived greenhouse gases NF3, SF5CF3, CHF3, C2F6, c-C4F8, n-C5F12, and n-C6F14

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Baasandorj, M.; Hall, B. D.; Burkholder, J. B.

2012-12-01

The contribution of atmospherically persistent (long-lived) greenhouse gases to the radiative forcing of Earth has increased over the past several decades. The impact of highly fluorinated, saturated compounds, in particular perfluorinated compounds, on climate change is a concern because of their long atmospheric lifetimes, which are primarily determined by stratospheric loss processes, as well as their strong absorption in the infrared "window" region. A potentially key stratospheric loss process for these compounds is their gas-phase reaction with electronically excited oxygen atoms, O(1D). Therefore, accurate reaction rate coefficient data is desired for input to climate change models. In this work, rate coefficients, k, were measured for the reaction of O(1D) with several key long-lived greenhouse gases, namely NF3, SF5CF3, CHF3 (HFC-23), C2F6, c-C4F8, n-C5F12, and n-C6F14. Room temperature rate coefficients for the total reaction, kTot, corresponding to loss of O(1D), and reactive channel, kR, corresponding to the loss of the reactant compound, were measured for NF3 and SF5CF3 using competitive reaction and relative rate methods, respectively. kR was measured for the CHF3 reaction and improved upper-limits were determined for the perfluorinated compounds included in this study. For NF3, kTot was determined to be (2.55 ± 0.38) × 10-11 cm3 molecule-1 s-1 and kR, which was measured using CF3Cl, N2O, CF2ClCF2Cl (CFC-114), and CF3CFCl2 (CFC-114a) as reference compounds, was determined to be (2.21 ± 0.33) × 10-11 cm3 molecule-1 s-1. For SF5CF3, kTot = (3.24 ± 0.50) × 10-13 cm3 molecule-1 s-1 and kR < 5.8 × 10×14 cm3 molecule-1 s-1 were measured, where kR is a factor of three lower than the current recommendation of kTot for use in atmospheric modeling. For CHF3 kR was determined to be (2.35 ± 0.35) × 10-12 cm3 molecule-1 s-1, which corresponds to a reactive channel yield of 0.26 ± 0.04, and resolves a large discrepancy among previously reported values
^2H(^18F,p)^19F Study at 6 MeV/u

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kozub, R. L.; Nesaraja, C. D.; Moazen, B. H.; Scott, J. P.; Bardayan, D. W.; Blackmon, J. C.; Gross, C. J.; Shapira, D.; Smith, M. S.; Batchelder, J. C.; Brune, C. R.; Champagne, A. E.; Sahin, L.; Cizewski, J. A.; Thomas, J. S.; Davinson, T.; Woods, P. J.; Greife, U.; Jewett, C.; Livesay, R. J.; Ma, Z.; Parker, P. D.

2003-04-01

The degree to which the (p,α) and (p,γ) reactions destroy ^18F at temperatures ˜1-4 x 10^8 K is important for understanding the synthesis of nuclei in nova explosions and for using ^18F as a monitor of nova mechanisms in gamma ray astronomy. The reactions are dominated by low-lying proton resonances near the ^18F+p threshold (E_x=6.411 MeV excitation energy in ^19Ne). To gain further information about these resonances, we have used the inverse ^18F(d,p)^19F neutron transfer reaction at the Holifield Radioactive Ion Beam Facility to selectively populate corresponding mirror states in ^19F. Proton angular distributions were measured for states in ^19F in the excitation energy range 0-9 MeV. Results and implications for the ^18F+p reactions and nuclear structure will be presented. ^1Supported by DOE. ^2ORNL is managed by UT-Battelle, LLC, for the USDOE.
Jahn-Teller effect on the [TiF 4F 4F int] 6-(C 4v) and [NiF 4F 4F int] 7-(C 4v) clusters embedded into SrF 2 crystals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ulanov, V. A.; Zhiteitcev, E. R.; Varlamov, A. G.

2007-07-01

By means of EPR method the associative [TiF 4F 4F int] 6-(C 4v) and [NiF 4F 4F int] 7-(C 4v) centers were revealed in the fluorite type SrF 2:Ti and SrF 2:Ni crystals grown by Bridgman method in helium atmosphere containing some amount of a fluorine gas. It was found that at low temperatures the local structures of these associative centers were exposed to a static rhombic distortion. The reasons of such distortions were accounted for by the assumption that the E ⊗ ( b1 + b2) vibronic interaction became effective due to that the ground orbital states of the [TiF 4F 4F int] 6-(C 4v) and [NiF 4F 4F int] 7-(C 4v) centers occurred to be doubly degenerated.
Rapid solid-phase immunoassay for 6-keto prostaglandin F1 alpha on microplates

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

Schramm, W.; Smith, R.H.; Jackson, T.M.

1990-03-01

We describe, for the measurement of 6-keto prostaglandin F1 alpha in biological media, a solid-phase immunoassay with immobilized antibodies that requires a total processing time of less than 2 h with hands-on time less than 30 min for 40 samples. The method combines the convenience of the microplate format with the sensitivity of radiolabeled prostaglandin derivatives as tracers in a competitive immunoassay. The intra- and interassay variations at 50% displacement of the radiolabeled prostaglandin derivative as tracer were 9.0% and 11.8%, respectively. At 50% displacement of the radiolabeled tracer, the sensitivity is about 20 pg per well. Optimal incubation timemore » is between 60 and 90 min. Nonspecific binding was less than 1% if about 8 pg of tracer (approximately 25,000 counts/min per well) was used. Inhibition curves of samples in different dilutions were parallel to standard curves. The variation of bound radiolabeled prostaglandin derivative within the wells of one microplate (n = 96) was less than 3%. Human plasma samples and medium from tissue culture assayed for 6-keto prostaglandin F1 alpha correlated well with results obtained with a solid-phase assay based on use of magnetic particles (r = 0.99, n = 24) for culture-medium samples; r = 0.99; n = 26 for plasma samples.« less

Systems Perspectives on External Quality Assurance: Implications for Micro-States

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Houston, Don; Maniku, Ahmed Ali

2005-01-01

Quality assurance in higher education is a mess: the "problem" of quality is embedded in complex sets of interacting issues that are of concern to many and varied stakeholders. Developing higher education systems that have responded to issues of quality through a "best practice" model of external quality assurance has produced…
Development of doxorubicin-induced chronic cardiotoxicity in the B6C3F{sub 1} mouse model

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

Desai, Varsha G., E-mail: varsha.desai@fda.hhs.gov; Herman, Eugene H.; Moland, Carrie L.

2013-01-01

Serum levels of cardiac troponins serve as biomarkers of myocardial injury. However, troponins are released into the serum only after damage to cardiac tissue has occurred. Here, we report development of a mouse model of doxorubicin (DOX)-induced chronic cardiotoxicity to aid in the identification of predictive biomarkers of early events of cardiac tissue injury. Male B6C3F{sub 1} mice were administered intravenous DOX at 3 mg/kg body weight, or an equivalent volume of saline, once a week for 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, and 14 weeks, resulting in cumulative DOX doses of 12, 18, 24, 30, 36, and 42 mg/kg, respectively.more » Mice were sacrificed a week following the last dose. A significant reduction in body weight gain was observed in mice following exposure to a weekly DOX dose for 1 week and longer compared to saline-treated controls. DOX treatment also resulted in declines in red blood cell count, hemoglobin level, and hematocrit compared to saline-treated controls after the 2nd weekly dose until the 8th and 9th doses, followed by a modest recovery. All DOX-treated mice had significant elevations in cardiac troponin T concentrations in plasma compared to saline-treated controls, indicating cardiac tissue injury. Also, a dose-related increase in the severity of cardiac lesions was seen in mice exposed to 24 mg/kg DOX and higher cumulative doses. Mice treated with cumulative DOX doses of 30 mg/kg and higher showed a significant decline in heart rate, suggesting drug-induced cardiac dysfunction. Altogether, these findings demonstrate the development of DOX-induced chronic cardiotoxicity in B6C3F{sub 1} mice. -- Highlights: ► 24 mg/kg was a cumulative cardiotoxic dose of doxorubicin in male B6C3F{sub 1} mice. ► Doxorubicin-induced hematological toxicity was in association with splenomegaly. ► Doxorubicin induced severe testicular toxicity in B6C3F{sub 1} male mice.« less
Glucose Transporter 1 Expression in Odontogenic Keratocyst, Dentigerous Cyst, and Ameloblastoma: An Immunohistochemical Study.

PubMed

Bandyopadhyay, Alokenath; Panda, Abikshyeet; Behura, Shyam S; Ramachandra, Sujatha; Dash, Kailash C; Mishra, Pallavi

2017-05-01

An array of odontogenic lesions manifest in the maxillofacial region with variable presentations. The biological behavior of lesions, such as odontogenic keratocyst (OKC), dentigerous cyst (DC), and ameloblastoma (AM) always invite debate. Glucose transporter 1 (GLUT-1) is proven to be an indicator of metabolic behavior of several benign and malignant neoplasms. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the expression of GLUT-1 in OKC, DC, and AM to understand their metabolic behavior. Immunohistochemical expression of GLUT-1 was evaluated in each of the 15 cases of OKC, DC, and AM. The number of labeled cells, staining intensity, and membrane or cytoplasmic expressions were the parameters assessed and analyzed using chi-square test. All cases showed positive GLUT-1 expression: 86.6% OKC showed more than 50% labeled cells followed by DC (40%) and AM (26.5%); 53.3% OKC showed strong intensity in comparison to AM, which showed weak intensity in 53.3% cases; 86.6% of OKCs showed both membrane and cytoplasmic expression followed by DC (40%) and AM (26.6%), whereas 73.3% of AM showed only membrane expression followed by DC (60%) and OKC (13.3%). Odontogenic keratocyst was found out to be more metabolically active followed by DC and AM.
External Quality Monitoring of the Cervical Cytopathological Exams in the Rio de Janeiro City.

PubMed

Rocha, Vânia Stiepanowez de Oliveira; Malfacini, Solange da Silva; Gomes, Alex Moreira; Rocha, Cláudia Ramos Marques da

2018-06-20

To discuss the implementation and contributions of the External Quality Monitoring in the city of Rio de Janeiro and to analyze the performance of the main providers of cervical cytopathology in this city from September 2013 to March 2017, here referred to as "Alpha laboratory" and "Beta laboratory." Observational, cross-sectional, retrospective study using information from the Cervical Cancer Control Information System (SISCOLO, in the Portuguese acronym), municipal coordination module, External Quality Monitoring report. The proportions of false positives, false negatives, unsatisfactory samples and rejected samples were estimated. The agreement among the observers was analyzed through the Kappa index and the reduction of disagreements in the period for each laboratory studied, comparing the results of each cycle. A total of 19,158 examinations were selected, of which 19,130 (99.85%) were monitored, 16.649 (87, 03%) were reviewed by the External Quality Monitoring Unit, 2,481 (12,97%) were rejected and 441 (2,65%) were considered unsatisfactory. The "Beta laboratory" presented excellent concordance in all cycles; the "Alpha laboratory" had good concordance in the first two cycles (K = 0.76 and 0.79), becoming excellent in the following four cycles. The average Kappa index was 0.85, with median of 0.86. The percentage of diagnostic disagreement was 6.63% of the reviewed exams, of which 5.38% required a change of conduct CONCLUSION: External Quality Monitoring is an exercise in diagnostic improvement, and its implementation was fundamental to ensure the reliability of the cytopathological exams in the city of Rio de Janeiro. Thieme Revinter Publicações Ltda Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Endorsing good quality assurance practices in molecular pathology: risks and recommendations for diagnostic laboratories and external quality assessment providers.

PubMed

Tembuyser, Lien; Dequeker, Elisabeth M C

2016-01-01

Quality assurance is an indispensable element in a molecular diagnostic laboratory. The ultimate goal is to warrant patient safety. Several risks that can compromise high quality procedures are at stake, from sample collection to the test performed by the laboratory, the reporting of test results to clinicians, and the organization of effective external quality assessment schemes. Quality assurance should therefore be safeguarded at each level and should imply a holistic multidisciplinary approach. This review aims to provide an overview of good quality assurance practices and discusses certain risks and recommendations to promote and improve quality assurance for both diagnostic laboratories and for external quality assessment providers. The number of molecular targets is continuously rising, and new technologies are evolving. As this poses challenges for clinical implementation and increases the demand for external quality assessment, the formation of an international association for improving quality assurance in molecular pathology is called for.
Carcinogenicity of bromodichloromethane administered in drinking water to Male F344/N Rats and B6C3F1 mice.

PubMed

George, Michael H; Olson, Greg R; Doerfler, Donald; Moore, Tanya; Kilburn, Steve; DeAngelo, Anthony B

2002-01-01

A life-time exposure study was conducted to assess the carcinogenicity of bromodichloromethane (BDCM) administered in the drinking water to male F344/N rats and B6C3F(1) mice. In mouse, the calculated mean daily BDCM concentrations (measured concentrations corrected for on-cage loss of chemical) were 0.06, 0.28 and 0.49 g/l. Time-weighted water consumption of 135, 97, and 89 ml/kg/day resulted in mean daily doses of 8.1, 27.2, and 43.4 mg BDCM/kg/day. No changes in feed consumption, final body weight, or survival were observed. Kidney weights were significantly depressed at 27.2 and 43.4 mg BDCM/kg/day. There was no increase in neoplasia in the liver, kidney, spleen, testis, bladder, sections along the alimentary tract, excised lesions, or at any other organ site. In rat, the corrected mean daily BDCM concentrations were 0.06, 0.33, and 0.62 g/l. Time-weighted water consumption of 65, 63, and 59 ml/kg/day yielded 3.9, 20.6 and 36.3 mg BDCM/kg/day. No alterations in feed consumption, body weight gain, and survival were seen. Kidney weight was significantly depressed in the 36.3-mg/kg/day treatment group. There was a significantly enhanced prevalence and multiplicity of hepatocellular adenomas at 3.9 mg BDCM/kg/day (15.5% and 0.16/animal vs. 2.2% and 0.02/animal for the control). Hepatocellular carcinomas increased from 2.2% and 0.02/animal for the control and 3.9 mg BDCM/kg/day to 8.3% and 0.10/animal at 20.6 mg BDCM/kg/day. The combined neoplasms were enhanced at 3.9 and 20.6 mg BDCM/kg/day. Liver neoplasia was depressed to the control value at 36.3 mg BDCM/kg. The prevalence of basophilic and clear cell, but not eosinophilic cells, altered foci of cells declined with increasing dose. BDCM did not increase cancer in the large bowel, renal tubules, or in any of the other tissues examined. Renal tubular hyperplasia was observed at 36.3 mg BDCM/kg (15.8% vs. 8.7% for the control group). Under the conditions of the study, BDCM in the drinking water was not carcinogenic
Synthesis of Defect Perovskites (He 2–x⟂ x)(CaZr)F 6 by Inserting Helium into the Negative Thermal Expansion Material CaZrF 6

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

Hester, Brett R.; dos Santos, António M.; Molaison, Jamie J.

Defect perovskites (He 2–x⟂ x)(CaZr)F 6 can be prepared by inserting helium into CaZrF 6 at high pressure. They can be recovered to ambient pressure at low temperature. There are no prior examples of perovskites with noble gases on the A-sites. The insertion of helium gas into CaZrF 6 both elastically stiffens the material and reduces the magnitude of its negative thermal expansion. It also suppresses the onset of structural disorder, which is seen on compression in other media. Measurements of the gas released on warming to room temperature and Rietveld analyses of neutron diffraction data at low temperature indicatemore » that exposure to helium gas at 500 MPa leads to a stoichiometry close to (He 1⟂ 1)(CaZr)F 6. Helium has a much higher solubility in CaZrF 6 than silica glass or crystobalite. An analogue with composition (H 2) 2(CaZr)F 6 would have a volumetric hydrogen storage capacity greater than current US DOE targets. We anticipate that other hybrid perovskites with small neutral molecules on the A-site can also be prepared and that they will display a rich structural chemistry.« less
30 CFR 74.6 - Quality control.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 1 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Quality control. 74.6 Section 74.6 Mineral... of the CMDPSU will be maintained in production through adequate quality control procedures, MSHA and... DUST SAMPLING DEVICES Approval Requirements for Coal Mine Dust Personal Sampler Unit § 74.6 Quality...
An overview of the European Organization for External Quality Assurance Providers in Laboratory Medicine (EQALM)

PubMed Central

Stavelin, Anne; Albe, Xavier; Meijer, Piet; Sarkany, Erika; MacKenzie, Finlay

2017-01-01

The European Organisation for External Quality Assurance Providers in Laboratory Medicine (EQALM) was founded in 1996 and currently has members from 29 European countries and 6 countries from outside Europe. EQALM provides a forum for co-operation and exchange of knowledge on quality-related matters in laboratory medicine, especially with regard to external quality assessment (EQA) programs in Europe. In addition, EQALM represent the EQA providers in laboratory medicine at European level vis-ŕ-vis political, professional, scientific and other bodies, including patients’ organisations. To this end EQALM promotes activities such as organizing meetings with scientific and practical themes for members and other interested parties, issuing scientific publications, developing EQA projects and representing laboratory medicine EQA activities within other organisations and networks. EQALM is active in scientific and educational activity in different fields such as survey frequency, haematology, haemostasis, microbiology, nomenclature, virtual microscopy, traceability, accreditation, and quality assurance of the total testing process. The aim of this paper is to give an overview of the EQALM organisation. PMID:28392724
CARCINOGENICITY OF BROMODICHLOROMETHANE ADMINISTERED IN DRINKING WATER TO THE MALE F344/N RAT AND B6C3F, MOUSE

EPA Science Inventory

CARCINOGENICITY OF BROMODICHLOROMETHANE ADMINISTERED IN DRINKING WATER TO THE MALE F344/N RAT AND B6C3F1 MOUSE.

Bromodichloromethane (BDCM) has been shown to produce kidney and large bowel tumors in both male and female F344/N rats, kidney tumors in male B6C3F 1 mice and ...
[Analysis of the results of the SEIMC External Quality Control Program for HIV-1 and HCV viral loads. Year 2008].

PubMed

Mira, Nieves Orta; Serrano, María del Remedio Guna; Martínez, José Carlos Latorre; Ovies, María Rosario; Pérez, José L; Cardona, Concepción Gimeno

2010-01-01

Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) viral load determinations are among the most relevant markers for the follow up of patients infected with these viruses. External quality control tools are crucial to ensure the accuracy of results obtained by microbiology laboratories. This article summarized the results obtained from the 2008 SEIMC External Quality Control Program for HIV-1 and HCV viral loads. In the HIV-1 program, a total of five standards were sent. One standard consisted in seronegative human plasma, while the remaining four contained plasma from 3 different viremic patients, in the range of 2-5 log(10) copies/mL; two of these standards were identical aiming to determine repeatability. The specificity was complete for all commercial methods, and no false positive results were reported by the participants. A significant proportion of the laboratories (24% on average) obtained values out of the accepted range (mean +/- 0.2 log(10) copies/mL), depending on the standard and on the method used for quantification. Repeatability was very good, with up to 95% of laboratories reporting results within the limits (D < 0.5 log(10) copias/mL). The HCV program consisted of two standards with different viral load contents. Most of the participants (88,7%) obtained results within the accepted range (mean +/- 1.96 SD log(10) UI/mL). Post-analytical errors due to mistranscription of the results were detected for HCV, but not for the HIV-1 program. Data from this analysis reinforce the utility of proficiency programmes to ensure the quality of the results obtained by a particular laboratory, as well as the importance of the post-analytical phase on the overall quality. Due to the remarkable interlaboratory variability, it is advisable to use the same method and the same laboratory for patient follow up. 2010 Elsevier España S.L. All rights reserved.
Proceedings of the Technical Forum (3rd) on the F-16 MIL-STD-1750A Microprocessor and the F-16 MIL-STD-1589B Compiler Held at Wright-Patterson AFB, OH on May 5-6, 1982. Volume 1. Papers,

DTIC Science & Technology

1982-05-06

BUS MKS Fucioa Diagram ~ALAOAR *RSAU TT E E 0E U D*iQ MKSXQ16 Microinstruction Word 1 ~ ~5 .6 a7 . 6 1 1,I 1,. 151li "" SP*D ACCA CONTROL JASNTJ EX...result CALLSF 4F FA Call with ID in register GETSID 4F F9 Get re-time ID of function Data Forwarding FWD 4F F6 Forward integer DFWD 4F F5 Forward
[Analysis of the results of the HIV-1, HCV and HBV viral load of SEIMC External Quality Control Program. Year 2013].

PubMed

Orta Mira, Nieves; Del Remedio Guna Serrano, María; Latorre Martínez, José-Carlos; Medina González, Rafael; Rosario Ovies, María; Poveda, Marta; Ruiz de Gopegui, Enrique; Gimeno Cardona, Concepción

2015-07-01

Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) and hepatitis B (HBV) and C virus (HCV) viral load determinations are among the most relevant markers for the follow up of patients infected with these viruses. External quality control tools are crucial to ensure the accuracy of results obtained by microbiology laboratories. This article summarized the results obtained from the 2013 SEIMC External Quality Control Programme for HIV-1, HCV, and HBV viral loads. In the HIV-1 program, a total of five standards were sent. One standard consisted in seronegative human plasma, while the remaining four contained plasma from three different viremic patients, in the range of 2-5 log10 copies/mL; two of these standards were identical aiming to determine repeatability. A significant proportion of the laboratories (25% on average) obtained values out of the accepted range (mean ± 0.25 log10 copies/mL), depending on the standard and on the method used for quantification. Repeatability was excellent, with up to 98.9% of laboratories reporting results within the limits (D < 0.5 log10 copies/mL). The HBV and HCV program consisted of two standards with different viral load contents. Most of the participants, 82% in the case of HCV and 78% in the HBV, obtained all the results within the accepted range (mean ± 1.96 SD log10 UI/mL). Data from this analysis reinforce the utility of proficiency programmes to ensure the quality of the results obtained by a particular laboratory, as well as the importance of the post-analytical phase on the overall quality. Due to the remarkable interlaboratory variability, it is advisable to use the same method and the same laboratory for patient follow up. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.
External quality assessment of malaria microscopy diagnosis in selected health facilities in Western Oromia, Ethiopia.

PubMed

Sori, Getachew; Zewdie, Olifan; Tadele, Geletta; Samuel, Abdi

2018-06-18

Accurate early diagnosis and prompt treatment are one of the key strategies to control and prevent malaria disease. External quality assessment is the most effective method for evaluation of the quality of malaria microscopy diagnosis. The aim of this study was to assess the quality of malaria microscopy diagnosis and its associated factors in selected public health facility laboratories in East Wollega Zone, Western Ethiopia. Facility-based cross-sectional study design was conducted in 30 randomly selected public health facility laboratories from November 2014 to January 2015 in East Wollega Zone, Western Ethiopia. Ten validated stained malaria panel slides with known Plasmodium species, developmental stage and parasite density were distributed. Data were captured; cleaned and analyzed using SPSS version 20 statistical software-multivariate logistic regressions and the agreement in reading between the peripheral diagnostic centers and the reference laboratory were done using kappa statistics. A total of 30 health facility laboratories were involved in the study and the overall quality of malaria microscopy diagnosis was poor (62.3%). The associated predictors of quality in this diagnosis were in-service training [(AOR = 16, 95% CI (1.3, 1.96)], smearing quality [(AOR = 24, 95% CI (1.8, 3.13)], staining quality [(AOR = 15, 95% CI (2.35, 8.61), parasite detection [(AOR = 9, 95% CI (1.1, 8.52)] and identification skills [(AOR = 8.6, 95% CI (1.21, 1.63)]. Eighteen (60%) of health facility laboratories had in-service trained laboratory professionals on malaria microscopy diagnosis. Overall quality of malaria microscopy diagnosis was poor and a significant gap in this service was observed that could impact on its diagnostic services.
Charmless hadronic B →(f1(1285 ),f1(1420 ))P decays in the perturbative QCD approach

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Xin; Xiao, Zhen-Jun; Li, Jing-Wu; Zou, Zhi-Tian

2015-01-01

We study 20 charmless hadronic B →f1P decays in the perturbative QCD (pQCD) formalism with B denoting Bu, Bd, and Bs mesons; P standing for the light pseudoscalar mesons; and f1 representing axial-vector mesons f1(1285 ) and f1(1420 ) that result from a mixing of quark-flavor f1 q[u/u ¯ +d d ¯ √{2 } ] and f1 s[s s ¯ ] states with the angle ϕf1.The estimations of C P -averaged branching ratios and C P asymmetries of the considered B →f1P decays, in which the Bs→f1P modes are investigated for the first time, are presented in the pQCD approach with ϕf 1˜24 ° from recently measured Bd /s→J /ψ f1(1285 ) decays. It is found that (a) the tree (penguin) dominant B+→f1π+(K+) decays with large branching ratios [O (10-6) ] and large direct C P violations (around 14%-28% in magnitude) simultaneously are believed to be clearly measurable at the LHCb and Belle II experiments; (b) the Bd→f1KS0 and Bs→f1(η ,η') decays with nearly pure penguin contributions and safely negligible tree pollution also have large decay rates in the order of 10-6- 10-5 , which can be confronted with the experimental measurements in the near future; (c) as the alternative channels, the B+→f1(π+,K+) and Bd→f1KS0 decays have the supplementary power in providing more effective constraints on the Cabibbo-Kobayashi-Maskawa weak phases α , γ , and β , correspondingly, which are explicitly analyzed through the large decay rates and the direct and mixing-induced C P asymmetries in the pQCD approach and are expected to be stringently examined by the measurements with high precision; (d) the weak annihilation amplitudes play important roles in the B+→f1(1420 )K+ , Bd→f1(1420 )KS0 , Bs→f1(1420 )η' decays, and so on, which would offer more evidence, once they are confirmed by the experiments, to identify the soft-collinear effective theory and the pQCD approach on the evaluations of annihilation diagrams and to help further understand the annihilation mechanism in the heavy
Seal of transparency heritage in the CISMeF quality-controlled health gateway

PubMed Central

Darmoni, SJ; Dahamna, B; Roth-Berghofer, Thomas R

2004-01-01

Background It is an absolute necessity to continually assess the quality of health information on the Internet. Quality-controlled subject gateways are Internet services which apply a selected set of targeted measures to support systematic resource discovery. Methods The CISMeF health gateway became a contributor to the MedCIRCLE project to evaluate 270 health information providers. The transparency heritage consists of using the evaluation performed on providers that are referenced in the CISMeF catalogue for evaluating the documents they publish, thus passing on the transparency label from the publishers to their documents. Results Each site rated in CISMeF has a record in the CISMeF database that generates an RDF into HTML file. The search tool Doc'CISMeF displays information originating from every publisher evaluated with a specific MedCIRCLE button, which is linked to the MedCIRCLE central repository. Starting with 270 websites, this trust heritage has led to 6,480 evaluated resources in CISMeF (49.8% of the 13,012 resources included in CISMeF). Conclusion With the MedCIRCLE project and transparency heritage, CISMeF became an explicit third party. PMID:15367332
Pseudopotential SCF-MO studies of hypervalent compounds. II. XeF+5 and XeF6

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rothman, Michael J.; Bartell, Lawrence S.; Ewig, Carl S.; Van Wazer, John R.

1980-07-01

New evidence bearing upon the anomalous properties of xenon hexafluoride has been obtained via the ab initio molecular orbital approach applied successfully to the di- and tetrafluorides in paper I. Structures of both XeF+5 and XeF6 are governed by a stereochemically active lone pair. In the case of the square-pyramidal cation the Fax-Xe-Feq angle calculated for the bare ion is within 2° of the value observed in the crystalline complex. For the hexafluoride, however, the calculated deformation from Oh symmetry is appreciably greater than that deduced from electron diffraction intensities. Nevertheless, the results of calculations are in sufficient conformity with the Bartell-Gavin, Pitzer-Bernstein interpretation and at variance with the ''electronic-isomers'' interpretation to leave little doubt about the answer. With increasing fluorination in the XeFn series the HOMO-LUMO energy difference decreases and the second-order Jahn-Teller effect is enhanced. Increasing fluorination (and increased positive charge on Xe) also shortens bond lengths; calculated shortenings parallel observed shortenings. The deformation of XeF6 from Oh is along t1u bend and stretch coordinates to a C3v structure with long bonds adjacent to the lone pair, as expected according to the valence-shell-electron-pair-repulsion model. Pure t2g deformations are destabilizing but anharmonic t1u-t2g coupling significantly stabilizes the deformation. Steric aspects of the structure and force field are diagnosed and found to be minor. Values for the force constants f44, f55, f¯4444, f¯444'4', and f¯445 are derived and found to be of the magnitude forecast in the Bartell-Gavin and Pitzer-Bernstein treatments except that the calculations do not reproduce the delicate balances believed to lead to almost free pseudorotation in XeF6.
Band gap opening of bilayer graphene by F4-TCNQ molecular doping and externally applied electric field.

PubMed

Tian, Xiaoqing; Xu, Jianbin; Wang, Xiaomu

2010-09-09

The band gap opening of bilayer graphene with one side surface adsorption of F4-TCNQ is reported. F4-TCNQ doped bilayer graphene shows p-type semiconductor characteristics. With a F4-TCNQ concentration of 1.3 x 10(-10) mol/cm(2), the charge transfer between each F4-TCNQ molecule and graphene is 0.45e, and the built-in electric field, E(bi), between the graphene layers could reach 0.070 V/A. The charge transfer and band gap opening of the F4-TCNQ-doped graphene can be further modulated by an externally applied electric field (E(ext)). At 0.077 V/A, the gap opening at the Dirac point (K), DeltaE(K) = 306 meV, and the band gap, E(g) = 253 meV, are around 71% and 49% larger than those of the pristine bilayer under the same E(ext).
Comparison of Quantity Versus Quality Using Performance, Reliability, and Life Cycle Cost Data. A Case Study of the F-15, F-16, and A-10 Aircraft.

DTIC Science & Technology

1985-09-01

CoC S~04 COMPARISON OF QUANTITY VERSUS QUALITY USING PERFORMANCE, RELIABILITY, AND LIFE CYCLE COST DATA. A CASE STUDY OF THE F-15, F-16, AND A-10...CYCLE COSTIATU.AT CAE AIR ORE HEO OG .- jAITR UIVERSITY W right.,Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio .! 5ൔ ,6 198 C.IT. U AF’IT/GSL,4/L3Q/65:S Ŗ J...COMPARISON OF QUANTITY VERSUS QUALITY USING PERFORMANCE, RELIABILITY, AND LIFE CYCLE COST DATA. A CASE STUDY OF THE F-15, F-16, AND A-10 AIRCRAFT THESIS David
[The external evaluation of study quality: the role in maintaining the reliability of laboratory information].

PubMed

Men'shikov, V V

2013-08-01

The external evaluation of quality of clinical laboratory examinations was gradually introduced in USSR medical laboratories since 1970s. In Russia, in the middle of 1990 a unified all-national system of external evaluation quality was organized known as the Federal center of external evaluation of quality at the basis of laboratory of the state research center of preventive medicine. The main positions of policy in this area were neatly formulated in the guidance documents of ministry of Health. Nowadays, the center of external evaluation of quality proposes 100 and more types of control studies and permanently extends their specter starting from interests of different disciplines of clinical medicine. The consistent participation of laboratories in the cycles of external evaluation of quality intrinsically promotes improvement of indicators of properness and precision of analysis results and increases reliability of laboratory information. However, a significant percentage of laboratories does not participate at all in external evaluation of quality or takes part in control process irregularly and in limited number of tests. The managers of a number of medical organizations disregard the application of the proposed possibilities to increase reliability of laboratory information and limit financing of studies in the field of quality control. The article proposes to adopt the national standard on the basis of ISO 17043 "Evaluation of compliance. The common requirements of professional competence testing".

Amplification and overexpression of cyclin D1 in breast cancer detected by immunohistochemical staining.

PubMed

Gillett, C; Fantl, V; Smith, R; Fisher, C; Bartek, J; Dickson, C; Barnes, D; Peters, G

1994-04-01

Immunohistochemical staining with a monoclonal antibody against human cyclin D1 can be used to identify breast cancers that have an amplification of the q13 region of chromosome 11. In general, the intensity of staining is directly proportional to the degree of DNA amplification. In two unusual tumors, in which the CCND1 locus is highly amplified but staining is relatively weak, it appears that the DNA has undergone rearrangement and that the amplified/rearranged CCND1 allele may have reduced transcriptional activity. More significantly, the immunohistochemical technique identifies additional tumors in which the cyclin D1 gene is overexpressed with only marginal or undetectable increases in copy number, implying that other mechanisms can lead to deregulated expression. These results suggest that the frequency of overexpression is much higher than previously concluded from DNA-based analyses and that more than one-third of human breast cancers may contain excessive levels of cyclin D1. The technique we describe should facilitate the detection of this abnormality in a clinical setting and clarify its prognostic significance.
Friendship Quality, Peer Group Affiliation, and Peer Antisocial Behavior as Moderators of the Link Between Negative Parenting and Adolescent Externalizing Behavior

PubMed Central

Lansford, Jennifer E.; Criss, Michael M.; Pettit, Gregory S.; Dodge, Kenneth A.; Bates, John E.

2009-01-01

Quality of peer relationships and perceived peer antisocial behavior were examined as moderators of the link between negative parenting and externalizing behavior problems in school from middle childhood to early adolescence. Data on negative parenting (i.e., unilateral parental decision making, low supervision and awareness, and harsh discipline) were collected from 362 parents in the summer preceding the adolescents’ entry into Grade 6. Adolescent reports of positive peer relationships and peer antisocial behavior were assessed in the winter of Grade 7. The outcome measure was teacher report of adolescent externalizing behavior in the spring of Grade 7, controlling for externalizing behavior in Grade 5. High levels of friendship quality and peer group affiliation attenuated the association between unilateral parental decision making and adolescent externalizing behavior in school; this was particularly true when adolescents associated with peers perceived to be low in antisocial behavior. In addition, having low-quality peer relationships and having peers perceived to be highly antisocial further amplified the association between unilateral parental decision making and adolescent externalizing behavior problems. Finally, high levels of friend and peer group antisocial behavior exacerbated the predictiveness of harsh discipline for adolescents’ externalizing behavior. PMID:20209019
Cytokine-induced depression during IFN-α treatment: the role of IL-6 and sleep quality

PubMed Central

Prather, Aric A.; Rabinovitz, Mordechai; Pollock, Bruce G.; Lotrich, Francis E.

2009-01-01

Depressive symptoms, poor sleep quality, and systemic markers of inflammation (e.g. interleukin (IL)-6) are frequently associated. Interferon-alpha (IFN-α) therapy results in major depressive disorder (MDD) in some people, offering the possibility to elucidate the relationship of MDD to sleep and inflammation during treatment. In particular, delineating the temporal relations among these factors could help inform their causal relationships. To this end, a cohort of 95 non-depressed hepatitis C patients was followed prospectively for four consecutive months during IFN-α therapy. We found that higher pre-treatment levels of circulating IL-6 predicted incidence of MDD (X2(1)=7.7; p<0.05). Time-lagged mixed-effect analyses supported uni-directional associations in which IL-6 predicted next month’s PSQI scores (F(47, 11.6) = 78.4; p<0.0005), and PSQI scores predicted next month’s depressive Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI) scores (F(16,22.6) = 3.4; p<0.005). In addition, on any given month of treatment, IL-6 levels predicted BDI symptoms the following month (F(16,97.5) = 7.3; p<0.0005), and conversely BDI predicted next month’s IL-6 (F(14,7.4) = 5.2; p<0.05) – providing evidence for a positive feedback relationship between depressive symptoms and systemic inflammation. These data provide further evidence that high levels of inflammation and poor sleep quality may be risk factors for IFN-α induced depression. Furthermore, these findings highlight the complex temporal relationships that exist among sleep, depression, and inflammation, and support the need for further prospective investigations to elucidate the dynamics that underlie depression during IFN-α treatment. PMID:19615438
[Histopathological and immunohistochemical features of cardiac myxomas].

PubMed

Hernández-Bringas, Omar; Ortiz-Hidalgo, Carlos

2013-01-01

Mixomas are the most common primary cardiac tumors with an estimate incidence of 0,5-1 per 10(6) individuals per year. These tumors have generated interest due to their unique location (left side of the atrial septum near the fossa ovalis), variable clinical presentation and undefined histogenesis. Most cardiac myxomas occur sporadically while approximately 10% of diagnosed cases develop as part of Carney complex. This neoplasm is of uncertain histogenesis, however, endothelial, neurogenic, fibroblastic, and cardiac and smooth muscle cells differentiation has been proposed, and rarely glandular differentiation has been observed. Recently, due to the expression of certain cardiomyocyte-specific factors, an origin of mesenchymal cardiomyocytes progenitor cells has been suggested. Histologically cardiac myxomas are mainly composed of stellated, fusiform and polygonal cells, immersed in an amorphous myxoid matrix. Immunohistochemically some endothelial markers, such as CD31, CD34, FVIIIAg, are present. Positive staining has also been reported for S-100 protein, calretinin, vimentin, desmin, smooth muscle myosin, CD56, α1 antitrypsin and α 1antichymotrypsin. Surgical resection is currently the only treatment of choice. We present in this article a histopathological and immunohistochemical review of cardiac myxomas. Copyright © 2012 Instituto Nacional de Cardiología Ignacio Chávez. Published by Masson Doyma México S.A. All rights reserved.
Air Quality Criteria for Ozone and Related Photochemical Oxidants (First External Review Draft)

EPA Science Inventory

This first external review draft of the Air Quality Criteria for Ozone and Related Photochemical Oxidants (Ozone Criteria Document) is being released in January 2005 for public comment and for review by EPA's 1/panels/casacorpanel.html ">Clean A...

Development of Handling Qualities Criteria for Rotorcraft with Externally Slung Loads

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hoh, Roger H.; Heffley, Robert K.; Mitchell, David G.

2006-01-01

Piloted simulations were performed on the NASA-Ames Vertical Motion Simulator (VMS) to explore handling qualities issues for large cargo helicopters, particularly focusing on external slung load operations. The purpose of this work was based upon the need to include handling qualities criteria for cargo helicopters in an upgrade to the U.S. Army's rotorcraft handling qualities specification, Aeronautical Design Standard-33 (ADS-33E-PRF). From the VMS results, handling qualities criteria were developed fro cargo helicopters carrying external slung loads in the degraded visual environment (DVE). If satisfied, these criteria provide assurance that the handling quality rating (HQR) will be 4 or better for operations in the DVE, and with a load mass ratio of 0.33 or less. For lighter loads, flying qualities were found to be less dependent on the load geometry and therefore the significance of the criteria is less. For heavier loads, meeting the criteria ensures the best possible handling qualities, albeit Level 2 for load mass ratios greater than 0.33.
Reduced immunohistochemical expression of adhesion molecules in vitiligo skin biopsies.

PubMed

Reichert Faria, Adriane; Jung, Juliana Elizabeth; Silva de Castro, Caio César; de Noronha, Lucia

2017-03-01

Because defects in adhesion impairment seem to be involved in the etiopathogenesis of vitiligo, this study aimed to compare the immunohistochemical expression of several adhesion molecules in the epidermis of vitiligo and non lesional vitiligo skin. Sixty-six specimens of lesional and non lesional skin from 33 volunteers with vitiligo were evaluated by immunohistochemistry using anti-beta-catenin, anti-E-cadherin, anti-laminin, anti-beta1 integrin, anti-collagen IV, anti-ICAM-1 and anti-VCAM-1 antibodies. Biopsies of vitiligo skin demonstrated a significant reduction in the expression of laminin and integrin. The average value of the immunohistochemically positive reaction area of the vitiligo specimens was 3053.2μm 2 , compared with the observed value of 3431.8μm 2 in non vitiligo skin (p=0.003) for laminin. The immuno-positive area was 7174.6μm 2 (vitiligo) and 8966.7μm 2 (non lesional skin) for integrin (p=0.042). A reduction in ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 expression in the basal layer of the epidermis in vitiligo samples was also observed (p=0.001 and p<0.001, respectively). However, no significant differences were observed with respect to the expression of beta-catenin, E-cadherin, and collagen IV between vitiligo and non lesional skin. Our results suggest that an impairment in adhesion exists in vitiligo skin, which is supported by the diminished immunohistochemical expression of laminin, beta1 integrin, ICAM-1 and VCAM-1. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.
Vibrational Relaxation and Electronic Quenching-Rate Coefficients for BiF (A0+,v1) by SF6

DTIC Science & Technology

1988-08-22

REPORT SD-TR-88-83 LO Vibrational Relaxation and Electronic Quenching-Rate N Coefficients for BiF (AO+ , v ) by SF 6 0) 0) H . HELVAJIAN , J. S...1. J. M. Herbelin and R. A. Klingberg, Int. J. Chem. Kinet. 16, 849 (19824). 2. R. F. Heidner III, H . Helvajian , J. S. Holloway, and J. B. Koffend, J...driven electronic-transfer laser based on the efficient H + NF2 NF(a) + HF reaction. More recently, the rate coefficients for spontaneous emission
External Quality Assessment for Zika Virus Molecular Diagnostic Testing, Brazil.

PubMed

Fischer, Carlo; Pedroso, Celia; Mendrone, Alfredo; Bispo de Filippis, Ana Maria; Vallinoto, Antonio Carlos Rosário; Ribeiro, Bergmann Morais; Durigon, Edison Luiz; Marques, Ernesto T A; Campos, Gubio S; Viana, Isabelle F T; Levi, José Eduardo; Scarpelli, Luciano Cesar; Nogueira, Mauricio Lacerda; Bastos, Michele de Souza; Souza, Nathalia C Santiago; Khouri, Ricardo; Lira, Sanny; Komninakis, Shirley Vasconcelos; Baronti, Cécile; Charrel, Rémi N; Kümmerer, Beate M; Drosten, Christian; Brites, Carlos; de Lamballerie, Xavier; Niedrig, Matthias; Netto, Eduardo Martins; Drexler, Jan Felix

2018-05-01

We conducted an external quality assessment of Zika virus molecular diagnostic tests in Brazil using a new Zika virus standard. Of 15 laboratories, 73% showed limited sensitivity and specificity. Viral load estimates varied significantly. Continuous quality assurance is needed to adequately estimate risk for Zika virus-associated disease and determine patient care.
Roles of spin fluctuation and frustration in the superconductivity of β-(BDA-TTP)2X (X=SbF6,AsF6) under uniaxial compression

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ito, Hiroshi; Ishihara, Tetsuo; Tanaka, Hisaaki; Kuroda, Shin-Ichi; Suzuki, Takeo; Onari, Seiichiro; Tanaka, Yukio; Yamada, Jun-Ichi; Kikuchi, Koichi

2008-11-01

β -type BDA-TTP [ BDA-TTP=2,5 -bis(1,3-dithian-2-ylidene)-1,3,4,6-tetrathiapentalene] salts possess high transition temperatures TC reaching 7 K among organic superconductors. TC of β-(BDA-TTP)2X (X=SbF6,AsF6) is studied by resistive measurements under uniaxial compression. TC once increases and takes a maximum under compression parallel to the donor stack while it decreases under compression perpendicular to the donor stack. These results are in agreement with the half-filled Hubbard model on the triangular lattice in which the compression controls the spin fluctuation and frustration in the weak pressure region.
Determination of the Mn2+ -F- distance from the isotropic superhyperfine constant for [MnF6]4- in ionic lattices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Barriuso, M. T.; Moreno, M.

1984-03-01

This paper is devoted to establish a quantitative nonempirical relation between the experimental isotropic superhyperfine constant As and the metal-ligand distance R for [MnF6]4- placed in different ionic host lattices. By inspection of the theoretical molecular-orbital calculations performed on [MnF6]4-, it is proposed that λs, the 2s (F-) admixture coefficient in the antibonding e*g orbital, is just given by cSs where Ss is the corresponding group overlap integral while the value of the constant c, which is independent of R, should be close to 1.3. In a first step, we have determined R for Mn2+ in fluoroperovskite lattices from the experimental As values using a value c=1.269+/-0.017 derived from the NMR data for KMnF3 and RbMnF3. By means of this procedure, it is predicted that R=2.084+/-0.11 Å for KZnF3:Mn2+ and that R=2.124+/-0.012 Å for RbCdF3:Mn2+, which are in good agreement with recent extended x-ray-absorption fine-structure measurements on such systems. On the other hand, from the As values measured at room temperature and at 4.2 K, we have derived a thermal-expansion coefficient α=(17+/-5)×10-6 K-1 for [MnF6]4- in the KZnF3 lattice which is comparable to the value α=16.52×10-6 K-1 measured at 300 K for RbMnF3. The present method gives also reasonable results for slightly distorted [MnF6]4- clusters. In view of this, it is predicted that R=2.126+/-0.012 Å for the long Mn-F bond in K2MnF4. From this work, it is seen that if R0 (which corresponds to the metal-ligand distance of the host lattice) is less than 2.10 Å, an outward relaxation occurs, whereas the opposite happens if R0 is higher than 2.12 Å-a fact which is consistent with the mainly ionic bond between Mn2+ and F-. Along this line of reasoning it is shown that a significant inwards relaxation ΔRR0=22.1% (ΔR=R-R0) occurs for RbF:Mn2+. The foundations of the method, which is able to detect changes in R down to about 2×10-4 Å, are thoroughly examined in this work. In particular, the
ZnO:Zn/6LiF scintillator-A low afterglow alternative to ZnS:Ag/6LiF for thermal neutron detection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sykora, G. Jeff; Schooneveld, Erik M.; Rhodes, Nigel J.

2018-03-01

Current ZnS:Ag/6LiF based scintillation detectors are often count rate limited by the long lifetime afterglow in the scintillator. Despite this drawback, new instruments at neutron scattering facilities, like ISIS in the UK, would still like to use ZnS:Ag/6LiF detectors due to their low gamma sensitivity, high light output, simplicity of detector design and relatively inexpensive production. One particular advantage of ZnS:Ag/6LiF detectors is their ability to provide strong pulse shape discrimination between neutrons and gammas. Despite the advantages of these detectors, it is becoming clear that new and upgraded instruments will be limited by the count rate capability of ZnS:Ag/6LiF, so an alternative scintillator technology with equivalent simplicity is being sought. ZnO:Zn/6LiF is investigated here as a low afterglow alternative to ZnS:Ag/6LiF. Basic scintillation properties of ZnO:Zn are studied and are discussed. Pulse shape discrimination between neutrons and gammas is explored and taken advantage of through simple single photon counting methods. A further step toward a realistic detector for neutron scattering is also taken by fiber coupling the ZnO:Zn/6LiF to a PMT. In an initial study of this fiber coupled configuration, 60Co gamma sensitivity of ∼ 7 × 10-6 is shown and improvements in count rate capability of at least a factor of 6 over ZnS:Ag/6LiF based neutron detectors are demonstrated.
Investigations of electron attachment to the perfluorocarbon molecules c-C4F8, 2-C4F8, 1,3 C4F6, and c-C5F8

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Feil, Stefan; Märk, Tilmann D.; Mauracher, Andreas; Scheier, Paul; Mayhew, Chris A.

2008-11-01

Non-dissociative and dissociative electron attachment to a series of gas-phase perfluorocarbons (PFCs), namely octafluorocyclobutane, c-C4F8, octafluorobut-2-ene (perfluoro-2-butene), 2-C4F8, hexafluorobuta-1,3-diene (1,3 perfluorobutadiene), 1,3 C4F6, and octafluorocyclopentene (perfluorocyclopentene), c-C5F8, of importance to technological plasmas, have been investigated using two different, but complimentary, instruments available in Innsbruck over the electron energy range 0-20 eV. Anion yields as a function of electron energy have been recorded, with the positions and intensities of the electron attachment resonances being determined. One of these instruments is a double focusing sector field mass spectrometer (VG-ZAB-2SEQ), which has been used for measurements requiring high sensitivity and for obtaining accurate relative anion yields. It has also been used to determine the electron detachment lifetimes of the parent anions under various accelerating voltages, and these results are also presented. The second instrument (CELIA) is a trochoidal electron monochromator coupled to a quadrupole mass filter with a pulse counting system for detecting product anionic species. This provides a much higher energy resolution than the VG-ZAB, which makes it a better instrument to investigate narrow energy resonances close to 0 eV. The results of anion yields, peak positions and the relative intensities presented in this paper are compared with previous data of electron attachment to the above PFCs, including investigations by Professor Eugen Illenberger.
[Analysis of the results of the HIV-1, HCV and HBV viral load of SEIMC External Quality Control Program. Year 2014].

PubMed

Medina González, Rafael; Orta Mira, Nieves; Guna Serrano, María Del Remedio; Latorre Martínez, José-Carlos; Gopegui, Enrique Ruiz de; Rosario Ovies, María; Poveda, Marta; Gimeno Cardona, Concepción

2016-07-01

Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1), hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) viral load determinations are among the most relevant markers for the follow up of patients infected with these viruses. External quality control tools are crucial to ensure the accuracy of results obtained by microbiology laboratories. This article summarizes the results obtained from the 2014 SEIMC (Spanish Society of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology) External Quality Control Programme for HIV-1, HCV, and HBV viral loads. In the HIV-1 program, a total of 5 standards were sent. One standard consisted in seronegative human plasma, while the remaining 4 contained plasma from 3 different viremic patients, in the range of 2-5 log10 copies/mL; 2 of these standards were identical aiming to determine repeatability. A significant proportion of the laboratories (30.8% on average) obtained values out of the accepted range (mean ± 0.25 log10 copies/mL), depending on the standard and on the method used for quantification. Repeatability was excellent, with up to 95.8% of laboratories reporting results within the limits (Δ < 0.5 log10 copies/mL). The HBV and HCV program consisted of 2 standards with different viral load contents. Most of the participants, 83.7% in the case of HCV and 87.9% in the HBV, obtained all the results within the accepted range (mean ± 1.96 standard deviations log10 IU/mL). Data from this analysis reinforce the utility of proficiency programmes to ensure the quality of the results obtained by a particular laboratory, as well as the importance of the post-analytical phase on the overall quality. Due to the remarkable interlaboratory variability, it is advisable to use the same method and the same laboratory for patient follow up. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.
41 CFR 51-6.11 - Quality complaints.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 41 Public Contracts and Property Management 1 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 true Quality complaints. 51-6... § 51-6.11 Quality complaints. (a) When the quality of a commodity received is not considered.... (b) When the quality of a service is not considered satisfactory by the contracting activity, it...
The Effectiveness of External Quality Audits: A Study of Australian Universities

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Shah, Mahsood

2013-01-01

External quality audits have been introduced in many countries as part of higher education reforms. This article is based on research on 30 Australian universities to assess the extent to which audits by the Australian Universities Quality Agency (AUQA) have improved quality assurance in the core and support areas of the universities. The article…
Toxicology and carcinogenesis studies of methylphenidate hydrochloride (Cas No. 298-59-9) in F344/N rats and B6C3F1 mice (feed studies). Technical report series

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

NONE

1995-07-01

Toxicology and carcinogenicity studies were conducted by administration of methylphenidate hydrochloride in feed to groups of 70 F344/N rats of each sex at doses of 0, 100, 500, or 1,0000 ppm and to groups of 70 B6C3F1 mice of each sex at doses of 0, 50, 250, or 500 ppm. Under the conditions of these 2-year feed studies, there was no evidence of carcinogenic activity of methylphenidate hydrochloride in male or female F344/N rats receiving 100, 500, or 1,000 ppm. There was some evidence of carcinogenic activity in male and female B6C3F1 mice, based on the occurrence of hepatocellular neoplasms.more » Treatment of female rats with methylphenidate hydrochloride was associated with a decrease in the incidence of mammary gland fibroadenomas. Administration of methylphenidate hydrochloride to male and female mice resulted in increased incidence of eosinophilic foci in the liver.« less
40 CFR Figure F-1 to Subpart F of... - Designation Testing Checklist

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... tests must be performed:§ 53.62 - Full Wind Tunnel § 53.63 - Inlet Aspiration § 53.64 - Static... 40 Protection of Environment 6 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Designation Testing Checklist F Figure F-1 to Subpart F of Part 53 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED...
40 CFR Figure F-1 to Subpart F of... - Designation Testing Checklist

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... tests must be performed:§ 53.62 - Full Wind Tunnel § 53.63 - Inlet Aspiration § 53.64 - Static... 40 Protection of Environment 6 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Designation Testing Checklist F Figure F-1 to Subpart F of Part 53 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED...
40 CFR Figure F-1 to Subpart F of... - Designation Testing Checklist

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... tests must be performed:§ 53.62 - Full Wind Tunnel § 53.63 - Inlet Aspiration § 53.64 - Static... 40 Protection of Environment 6 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Designation Testing Checklist F Figure F-1 to Subpart F of Part 53 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED...

Immunohistochemical comparative analysis of GFAP, MAP - 2, NOGO - A, OLIG - 2 and WT - 1 expression in WHO 2016 classified neuroepithelial tumours and their prognostic value.

PubMed

Schwab, David Emanuel; Lepski, Guilherme; Borchers, Christian; Trautmann, Katrin; Paulsen, Frank; Schittenhelm, Jens

2018-01-01

Immunohistochemistry is routinely used in differential diagnosis of tumours of the central nervous system (CNS). The latest 2016 WHO 2016 revision now includes molecular data such as IDH mutation and 1p/19q codeletion thus restructuring glioma classification. Direct comparative information between commonly used immunohistochemical markers for glial tumours GFAP, MAP - 2, NOGO - A, OLIG - 2 and WT - 1 concerning quality and quantity of expression and their relation to the new molecular markers are lacking. We therefore compared the immunohistochemical staining results of all five antibodies in 34 oligodendrogliomas, 106 ependymomas and 423 astrocytic tumours. GFAP expression was reduced in cases with higher WHO grade, oligodendroglial differentiation and in IDH wildtype diffuse astrocytomas. By contrast MAP - 2 expression was significantly increased in diffuse astrocytomas with IDH mutation, while NOGO - A expression was not associated with any molecular marker. WT - 1 expression was significantly decreased in tumours with IDH mutation and ATRX loss. OLIG - 2 was increased in IDH-mutant grade II astrocytomas and in cases with higher proliferation rate. In univariate survival analysis high WT - 1 expression was significantly associated with worse outcome in diffuse astrocytic tumours (log rank p < 0.0001; n = 211; median time: 280 days vs 562 days). None of the markers was prognostic in multivariate survival analysis. Among the evaluated markers MAP - 2, OLIG - 2 and WT - 1 showed the best potential to separate between glioma entities and can be recommended for a standardized immunohistochemical panel. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.
Nonleptonic decays of B →(f1(1285 ),f1(1420 ))V in the perturbative QCD approach

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Xin; Xiao, Zhen-Jun; Zou, Zhi-Tian

2016-12-01

We investigate the branching ratios, the polarization fractions, the direct C P -violating asymmetries, and the relative phases in 20 nonleptonic decay modes of B →f1V within the framework of the perturbative QCD approach at leading order with f1 including two 3P1-axial-vector states f1(1285 ) and f1(1420 ) . Here, B denotes B+, B0, and Bs0 mesons and V stands for the lightest vector mesons ρ , K*, ω , and ϕ , respectively. The Bs0→f1V decays are studied theoretically for the first time in the literature. Together with the angle ϕf1≈(24-2.7+3.2)∘ extracted from the measurement through Bd /s→J /ψ f1(1285 ) modes for the f1(1285 )-f1(1420 ) mixing system, it is of great interest to find phenomenologically some modes such as the tree-dominated B+→f1ρ+ and the penguin-dominated B+,0→f1K*+,0 , Bs0→f1ϕ with large branching ratios around O (10-6) or even O (10-5), which are expected to be measurable at the LHCb and/or the Belle-II experiments in the near future. The good agreement (sharp contrast) of branching ratios and decay pattern for B+→f1ρ+ , B+,0→f1(1285 )K*+,0[B+,0→f1(1420 )K*+,0] decays between QCD factorization and perturbative QCD factorization predictions can help us to distinguish these two rather different factorization approaches via precision measurements, which would also be helpful for us in exploring the annihilation decay mechanism through its important roles for the considered B →f1V decays.
Transformation of arachidonate into 6-oxoprostaglandin F1 alpha, thromboxane B2 and prostaglandin E2 by sheep lung microsomal fraction.

PubMed Central

Tai, H H; Yuan, B; Wu, A T

1978-01-01

In the presence of haemoglobin and isoproterenol, the microsomal fraction of sheep lung catalysed the conversion of arachidonate predominantly into thromboxane B2 and to a lesser extent into 6-oxoprostaglandin F1alpha. Very little prostaglandin E2 and prostaglandin F2alpha were formed. If reduced glutathione was added in combination with haemoglobin and isoproterenol, the synthesis of prostaglandin E2 was favoured over that of thromboxane B2 and 6-oxoprostaglandin F1alpha. The identities of these products were confirmed by t.l.c. and by combined g.l.c.-mass spectrometry. These results indicate that microsomal fraction of sheep lung possesses active prostaglandin synthase, prostacyclin synthase and thromboxane synthase activities. PMID:637853
[Analysis of the results of the 2010 External Quality Control Program of the Spanish Society of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology for HIV-1, HCV, and HBV viral loads].

PubMed

Orta Mira, Nieves; Serrano, María del Remedio Guna; Martínez, José-Carlos Latorre; Ovies, María Rosario; Poveda, Marta; de Gopegui, Enrique Ruiz; Cardona, Concepción Gimeno

2011-12-01

Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) and hepatitis B (HBV) and C virus (HCV) viral load determinations are among the most important markers for the follow-up of patients infected with these viruses. External quality control tools are crucial to ensure the accuracy of the results obtained by microbiology laboratories. This article summarized the results obtained in the 2010 External Quality Control Program of the Spanish Society of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology for HIV-1, HCV, and HBV viral loads and HCV genotyping. In the HIV-1 program, a total of five standards were sent. One standard consisted of seronegative human plasma, while the remaining four contained plasma from three different viremic patients, in the range of 3-5 log(10) copies/mL; two of these standards were identical, with the aim of determining repeatability. A significant proportion of the laboratories (22.6% on average) obtained values out of the accepted range (mean ± 0.2 log(10)copies/mL), depending on the standard and on the method used for quantification. Repeatability was very good, with up to 95% of laboratories reporting results within the limits (Δ<0.5 log(10)copies/mL). The HBV and HCV program consisted of two standards with different viral load contents. Most of the participants, 86.1% in the case of HCV and 87.1% in HBV, obtained all the results within the accepted range (mean ± 1.96 SD log(10)UI/mL). Post-analytical errors due to mistranscription of the results were detected in these controls. Data from this analysis reinforce the utility of proficiency programs to ensure the quality of the results obtained by a particular laboratory, as well as the importance of the post-analytical phase in overall quality. Due to interlaboratory variability, use of the same method and the same laboratory for patient follow-up is advisable. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier España S.L. All rights reserved.
12 CFR 563f.6 - General exemption.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 12 Banks and Banking 5 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false General exemption. 563f.6 Section 563f.6 Banks and Banking OFFICE OF THRIFT SUPERVISION, DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY MANAGEMENT OFFICIAL INTERLOCKS... controlled or managed by persons who are members of a minority group, or women; (3) Is a depository...
Magnetic ground state of the two isostructual polymeric quantum magnets [ Cu ( HF 2 ) ( pyrazine ) 2 ] SbF 6 and [ Co ( HF 2 ) ( pyrazine ) 2 ] SbF 6 investigated with neutron powder diffraction

DOE PAGES

Brambleby, J.; Goddard, P. A.; Johnson, R. D.; ...

2015-10-07

The magnetic ground state of two isostructural coordination polymers, (i) the quasi-two-dimensional S=1/2 square-lattice antiferromagnet [Cu(HF 2)(pyrazine) 2]SbF 6 and (ii) a related compound [Co(HF 2)(pyrazine)2]SbF6, was examined with neutron powder diffraction measurements. We find that the ordered moments of the Heisenberg S=1/2 Cu(II) ions in [Cu(HF 2)(pyrazine) 2]SbF 6 are 0.6(1)μ b, while the ordered moments for the Co(II) ions in [Co(HF 2)(pyrazine) 2]SbF 6 are 3.02(6)μ b. For Cu(II), this reduced moment indicates the presence of quantum fluctuations below the ordering temperature. We also show from heat capacity and electron spin resonance measurements that due to the crystalmore » electric field splitting of the S=3/2 Co(II) ions in [Co(HF 2)(pyrazine) 2]SbF 6, this isostructual polymer also behaves as an effective spin-half magnet at low temperatures. Furthermore, the Co moments in [Co(HF 2)(pyrazine) 2]SbF 6 show strong easy-axis anisotropy, neutron diffraction data, which do not support the presence of quantum fluctuations in the ground state, and heat capacity data, which are consistent with 2D or close to 3D spatial exchange anisotropy.« less
Chemical stability and Ce doping of LiMgAlF 6 neutron scintillator

DOE PAGES

Du, M. H.

2014-11-13

We perform density functional calculations to investigate LiMgAlF 6 as a potential neutron scintillator material. The calculations of enthalpy of formation and phase diagram show that single-phase LiMgAlF 6 can be grown but it should be more difficult than growing LiCaAlF 6 and LiSrAlF 6. Moreover, the formation energy calculations for substitutional Ce show that the concentration of Ce on the Al site is negligible but a high concentration (>1 at.%) of Ce on the Mg site is attainable provided that the Fermi level is more than 5 eV lower than the conduction band minimum. Acceptor doping should promote Cemore » incorporation in LiMgAlF 6.« less
External quality assessment on detection of hepatitis C virus RNA in clinical laboratories of China.

PubMed

Wang, Lu-nan; Zhang, Rui; Shen, Zi-yu; Chen, Wen-xiang; Li, Jin-ming

2008-06-05

As with many studies carried out in European countries, a quality assurance program has been established by the National Center for Clinical Laboratories in China (NCCL). The results showed that the external quality assessment significantly improves laboratory performance for quantitative evaluation of hepatitis C virus (HCV) RNA. Serum panels were delivered twice annually to the clinical laboratories which performed HCV RNA detection in China. Each panel made up of 5 coded samples. All laboratories were requested to carry out the detection within the required time period and report on testing results which contained qualitative and/or quantitative test findings, reagents used and relevant information about apparatus. All the positive samples were calibrated against the first International Standard for HCV RNA in a collaborative study and the range of comparison target value (TG) designated as +/- 0.5 log. The numbers of laboratories reporting on qualitative testing results for the first and second time external quality assessment were 168 and 167 in the year of 2003 and increased to 209 and 233 in 2007; the numbers of laboratories reporting on quantitative testing results were 134 and 147 in 2003 and rose to 340 and 339 in 2007. Deviation between the mean value for quantitative results at home in 2003 and the target value was above 0.5 log, which was comparatively high. By 2007, the target value was close to the national average except for the low concentrated specimens (10(3) IU/ml). The percentage of results within the range of GM +/- 0.5 log(10) varied from 8.2% to 93.5%. Some laboratories had some difficulties in the exact quantification of the lowest (3.00 log IU/ml) as well as of the highest viral levels (6.37 log IU/ml) values, very near to the limits of the dynamic range of the assays. The comparison of these results with the previous study confirms that a regular participation in external quality assessment (EQA) assures the achievement of a high
Comparative disposition of (R)-(+)-pulegone in B6C3F1 mice and F344 rats.

PubMed

Chen, L-J; Lebetkin, E H; Burka, L T

2003-07-01

Pulegone is a monoterpene ketone that is usually associated with the herb pennyroyal but is also found in the essential oils from many other mint species. It is the major constituent of pennyroyal oil. Pennyroyal is used as a flavoring and fragrance and as an herbal medicine to induce menstruation and abortion. A disposition study of 14C-pulegone in B6C3F1 mice and F344 rats has been conducted at doses from 0.8 to 80 mg/kg. Mice excrete 85 to 100% of the dose in 24 h. Rats excrete only 59 to 81% of the administered radioactivity in the same time, primarily in urine and feces, with a trace in respired air. Consequently, tissue concentrations are lower in mice than in rats. Male rats tend to have higher tissue concentrations, especially in kidney, than female rats have, but this sex difference is not seen in mice. The residual radioactivity at 24 h demonstrates potential for accumulation of pulegone-derived material in several tissues following multiple doses. The metabolic profile is complex in both species, with at least three pathways involving hydroxylation, reduction, or conjugation with glutathione as first steps. Mercapturic acid pathway metabolites were detected in bile in mice and both bile and urine in rats.
Safety of externally stimulated intracranial electrodes during functional MRI at 1.5T.

PubMed

Bhattacharyya, Pallab K; Mullin, Jeffery; Lee, Bryan S; Gonzalez-Martinez, Jorge A; Jones, Stephen E

2017-05-01

Surgical resection of the epileptogenic zone (EZ) is a potential cure for medically refractory focal epilepsy. Proper identification of the EZ is essential for such resection. Synergistic application of functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) simultaneously with stimulation of a single externalized intracranial stereotactic EEG (SEEG) electrode has the potential to improve identification of the EZ. While most EEG-fMRI studies use the electrodes passively to record electrical activity, it is possible to stimulate the brain using the electrodes by connecting them with conducting cables to the stimulation hardware. In this study, we investigated the effect of MRI-induced heating on a single SEEG electrode and its sensitivity to geometry, configuration, and associated connections required for the stimulation. The temperature increase of a single electrode embedded within a gel phantom and connected to an external stimulation system was measured during 1.5T MRI scans using adjacent fluoroptic temperature sensors. A receive-only split-array head coil and a transmit-receive head coil were used for testing. Sequences included a standard localizer, T1-weighted axial fast low-angle shot (FLASH), gradient echo-planar imaging (GE-EPI) axial fMRI, and a high specific absorption rate T2-weighted turbo spin-echo (TSE) axial scan. Variations of the electrode location and connecting cable configuration were tested. No unacceptable heating was observed with the standard sequences used for evaluation of the EZ. Considerable heating (up to 14°C) was observed with the TSE sequence, which is not used clinically. The temperature increase was insignificant (<0.05°C) for electrode contacts closest to the isocenter and connecting cables lying along the isocenter, and varied with configurations of the connecting cable assembly. Simultaneous intracranial electrode stimulation during fMRI using an externalized stimulation system may be safe with strict adherence to settings tested prior
Reconstructive phase transition in (NH4)3TiF7 accompanied by the ordering of TiF6 octahedra.

PubMed

Molokeev, Maxim; Misjul, S V; Flerov, I N; Laptash, N M

2014-12-01

An unusual phase transition P4/mnc → Pa\\bar 3 has been detected after cooling the (NH4)3TiF7 compound. Some TiF6 octahedra, which are disordered in the room-temperature tetragonal structure, become ordered in the low-temperature cubic phase due to the disappearance of the fourfold axis. Other TiF6 octahedra undergo large rotations resulting in huge displacements of the F atoms by 1.5-1.8 Å that implies a reconstructive phase transition. It was supposed that phases P4/mbm and Pm\\bar 3m could be a high-temperature phase and a parent phase, respectively, in (NH4)3TiF7. Therefore, the sequence of phase transitions can be written as Pm\\bar 3m → P4/mbm → P4/mnc → Pa\\bar 3. The interrelation between (NH4)3TiF7, (NH4)3GeF7 and (NH4)3PbF7 is found, which allows us to suppose phase transitions in relative compounds.
The Influence of Strategy and External Quality Audit on University Performance: An Australian Perspective

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Shah, Mahsood; Nair, Sid

2011-01-01

External quality audits have been introduced in many parts of the world including Asia Pacific, Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Middle East. While external quality audits have been introduced for more than a decade in some countries like New Zealand, the United Kingdom (UK), Denmark, and Sweden, there is limited research on the extent to which such…
Child Diurnal Cortisol Rhythms, Parenting Quality, and Externalizing Behaviors in Preadolescence

PubMed Central

Martin, Christina Gamache; Kim, Hyoun K.; Bruce, Jacqueline; Fisher, Philip A.

2014-01-01

This study examined a neurobiologically–informed model of the emergence of child externalizing behaviors in an ethnically diverse community sample of 232 9–12 year old children. Replicating extensive prior research, our analyses revealed that parents’ inconsistent discipline and poor quality monitoring were predictive of child externalizing behavior. In addition, poor parental monitoring, but not inconsistent discipline, was associated with children having a significantly flatter morning–to–evening cortisol slope, which was in turn, related to higher levels of externalizing behaviors. An indirect effect of parental monitoring on externalizing behaviors, through child diurnal cortisol rhythms, was also supported. These findings highlight the role of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis and its hormonal end product, cortisol, in the relationship between the caregiving environment and the development of externalizing behaviors. PMID:24485489
30 CFR 74.6 - Quality control.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 1 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Quality control. 74.6 Section 74.6 Mineral... control. The applicant shall describe the way in which each lot of components will be sampled and tested... of the CMDPSU will be maintained in production through adequate quality control procedures, MSHA and...
30 CFR 74.6 - Quality control.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 1 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Quality control. 74.6 Section 74.6 Mineral... control. The applicant shall describe the way in which each lot of components will be sampled and tested... of the CMDPSU will be maintained in production through adequate quality control procedures, MSHA and...
30 CFR 74.6 - Quality control.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 1 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Quality control. 74.6 Section 74.6 Mineral... control. The applicant shall describe the way in which each lot of components will be sampled and tested... of the CMDPSU will be maintained in production through adequate quality control procedures, MSHA and...
Hidradenocarcinoma: a histological and immunohistochemical study.

PubMed

Ko, Christine J; Cochran, Alistair J; Eng, William; Binder, Scott W

2006-11-01

The diagnosis of hidradenocarcinoma is difficult due to a combination of factors including inconsistent nomenclature/ classification, rarity of the neoplasm, and variable morphology of cells composing the neoplasm. Immunohistochemistry has not been previously performed on a series of hidradenocarcinomas. We evaluated six cases of hidradenocarcinoma histologically and immunohistochemically using antibodies to gross cystic disease fluid protein-15 (GCDFP-15), carcino-embryonic antigen (CEA), epithelial membrane antigen (EMA), S-100 protein, keratin AE1/3, cytokeratin 5/6, p53, bcl-1, bcl-2, and Ki67. Histology suggested concurrent eccrine and apocrine differentiation of the cases. Ki67 and p53 staining was strongly positive in five of six tumors. The neoplasms stained with antibodies to CEA, S-100 protein, GCDFP-15, EMA, bcl-1, and bcl-2 in no consistent pattern. All tumors studied stained positively for keratin AE1/3 and cytokeratin 5/6. In making the diagnosis of hidradenocarcinoma, it may be unnecessary to separate hidradenocarcinoma into eccrine and apocrine categories, and although Ki67 and p53 may be helpful, histological parameters remain paramount.
Atmospheric fate of hydrofluoroolefins, CxF2x+1CHCH2 (x = 1,2,3,4 and 6): Kinetics with Cl atoms and products.

PubMed

Ballesteros, Bernabé; Jiménez, Elena; Moreno, Alberto; Soto, Amparo; Antiñolo, María; Albaladejo, José

2017-01-01

Rate coefficients for the gas-phase reactions of C x F 2x+1 CHCH 2 (x = 1, 2, 3, 4 and 6) with Cl atoms were determined at (298 ± 2) K and (710 ± 5) Torr of air using a relative rate technique. Two experimental setups with simulation chambers were employed with Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and Gas Chromatography coupled to Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) as detection techniques. The Cl-rate coefficients obtained were (in 10 -10 cm 3 molecule -1 s -1 ): (0.85 ± 0.11) for CF 3 CHCH 2 , (1.11 ± 0.08) for C 2 F 5 CHCH 2 , (1.12 ± 0.18) for C 3 F 7 CHCH 2 , (0.97 ± 0.09) for C 4 F 9 CHCH 2 , and (0.99 ± 0.08) for C 6 F 13 CHCH 2 . Additionally, the gas-phase products were identified and quantified, when possible, by FTIR spectroscopy or GC-MS. The main reaction product was reported to be C x F 2x+1 C(O)CH 2 Cl. The fluorinated species, C x F 2x+1 CHO and C x F 2x+1 C(O)CH 2 Cl, were identified. CF 3 C(O)CH 2 Cl and CF 3 CHO were found to be formed with molar yield of (69 ± 5)% and (9 ± 1)%, respectively. The global lifetime of the investigated C x F 2x+1 CHCH 2 due to their Cl-reaction is more than 100 days so this route does not compete with the removal by OH radicals. This lifetime is long enough for C x F 2x+1 CHCH 2 to be transported to remote areas where they can be degraded. However, at a local scale, in marine regions at dawn the removal of C x F 2x+1 CHCH 2 is expected to occur in ca. 1 day. The atmospheric degradation of these hydrofluoroolefins by Cl atoms is not expected to be a source of bioaccumulative perfluorinated carboxylic acids, C x F 2x+1 C(O)OH. Additionally, the UV absorption cross sections of CF 3 C(O)CH 2 Cl were determined together with the rate coefficient of the OH reaction by an absolute kinetic method at room temperature. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Directionally solidified Eu doped CaF2/Li3AlF6 eutectic scintillator for neutron detection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kamada, Kei; Hishinuma, Kousuke; Kurosawa, Shunsuke; Shoji, Yasuhiro; Pejchal, Jan; Ohashi, Yuji; Yokota, Yuui; Yoshikawa, Akira

2015-12-01

Eu doped CaF2/Li3AlF6 eutectics were grown by μ-PD method. The directionally solidified eutectic with well-aligned 600 nm diameter Eu:CaF2 scintillator fibers surrounded with Li3AlF6 was prepared. The grown eutectics showed an emission peak at 422 nm ascribed to Eu2+ 4f-5d transition from Eu:CaF2 scintillation fiber. Li concentration in the Eu:CaF2-Li3AlF6 eutectic is around 0.038 mol/cm3,which is two times higher than that of LiCaAlF6 single crystal (0.016 mol/cm3). The light yield of Eu:CaF2-Li3AlF6 eutectic was around 7000 ph/neutron. The decay time was about 550 ns (89%) and 1450 ns (11%).
Parvalbumin+ Neurons and Npas1+ Neurons Are Distinct Neuron Classes in the Mouse External Globus Pallidus

PubMed Central

Hernández, Vivian M.; Hegeman, Daniel J.; Cui, Qiaoling; Kelver, Daniel A.; Fiske, Michael P.; Glajch, Kelly E.; Pitt, Jason E.; Huang, Tina Y.; Justice, Nicholas J.

2015-01-01

Compelling evidence suggests that pathological activity of the external globus pallidus (GPe), a nucleus in the basal ganglia, contributes to the motor symptoms of a variety of movement disorders such as Parkinson's disease. Recent studies have challenged the idea that the GPe comprises a single, homogenous population of neurons that serves as a simple relay in the indirect pathway. However, we still lack a full understanding of the diversity of the neurons that make up the GPe. Specifically, a more precise classification scheme is needed to better describe the fundamental biology and function of different GPe neuron classes. To this end, we generated a novel multicistronic BAC (bacterial artificial chromosome) transgenic mouse line under the regulatory elements of the Npas1 gene. Using a combinatorial transgenic and immunohistochemical approach, we discovered that parvalbumin-expressing neurons and Npas1-expressing neurons in the GPe represent two nonoverlapping cell classes, amounting to 55% and 27% of the total GPe neuron population, respectively. These two genetically identified cell classes projected primarily to the subthalamic nucleus and to the striatum, respectively. Additionally, parvalbumin-expressing neurons and Npas1-expressing neurons were distinct in their autonomous and driven firing characteristics, their expression of intrinsic ion conductances, and their responsiveness to chronic 6-hydroxydopamine lesion. In summary, our data argue that parvalbumin-expressing neurons and Npas1-expressing neurons are two distinct functional classes of GPe neurons. This work revises our understanding of the GPe, and provides the foundation for future studies of its function and dysfunction. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Until recently, the heterogeneity of the constituent neurons within the external globus pallidus (GPe) was not fully appreciated. We addressed this knowledge gap by discovering two principal GPe neuron classes, which were identified by their nonoverlapping

Parvalbumin+ Neurons and Npas1+ Neurons Are Distinct Neuron Classes in the Mouse External Globus Pallidus.

PubMed

Hernández, Vivian M; Hegeman, Daniel J; Cui, Qiaoling; Kelver, Daniel A; Fiske, Michael P; Glajch, Kelly E; Pitt, Jason E; Huang, Tina Y; Justice, Nicholas J; Chan, C Savio

2015-08-26

Compelling evidence suggests that pathological activity of the external globus pallidus (GPe), a nucleus in the basal ganglia, contributes to the motor symptoms of a variety of movement disorders such as Parkinson's disease. Recent studies have challenged the idea that the GPe comprises a single, homogenous population of neurons that serves as a simple relay in the indirect pathway. However, we still lack a full understanding of the diversity of the neurons that make up the GPe. Specifically, a more precise classification scheme is needed to better describe the fundamental biology and function of different GPe neuron classes. To this end, we generated a novel multicistronic BAC (bacterial artificial chromosome) transgenic mouse line under the regulatory elements of the Npas1 gene. Using a combinatorial transgenic and immunohistochemical approach, we discovered that parvalbumin-expressing neurons and Npas1-expressing neurons in the GPe represent two nonoverlapping cell classes, amounting to 55% and 27% of the total GPe neuron population, respectively. These two genetically identified cell classes projected primarily to the subthalamic nucleus and to the striatum, respectively. Additionally, parvalbumin-expressing neurons and Npas1-expressing neurons were distinct in their autonomous and driven firing characteristics, their expression of intrinsic ion conductances, and their responsiveness to chronic 6-hydroxydopamine lesion. In summary, our data argue that parvalbumin-expressing neurons and Npas1-expressing neurons are two distinct functional classes of GPe neurons. This work revises our understanding of the GPe, and provides the foundation for future studies of its function and dysfunction. Until recently, the heterogeneity of the constituent neurons within the external globus pallidus (GPe) was not fully appreciated. We addressed this knowledge gap by discovering two principal GPe neuron classes, which were identified by their nonoverlapping expression of the
Still Balancing Improvement and Accountability? Developments in External Quality Assurance in the Nordic Countries 1996-2006

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dano, Trine; Stensaker, Bjorn

2007-01-01

The role and function of external quality assurance is of great importance for the development of an internal quality culture in higher education. Research has shown that external quality assurance can stimulate but also create obstacles for institutional improvement. To strike a balance between improvement and accountability is, therefore, a key…
Methyl isobutyl ketone-induced hepatocellular carcinogenesis in B6C3F1 mice: A constitutive androstane receptor (CAR)-mediated mode of action.

PubMed

Hughes, B J; Thomas, J; Lynch, A M; Borghoff, S J; Green, S; Mensing, T; Sarang, S S; LeBaron, M J

2016-11-01

In a National Toxicology Program (NTP) chronic inhalation study with methyl isobutyl ketone (MIBK), increases in hepatocellular adenomas and hepatocellular adenomas and carcinomas (combined) were observed in male and female B6C3F 1 mice at 1800 ppm. A DNA reactive Mode-of-Action (MOA) for this liver tumor response is not supported by the evidence as MIBK and its major metabolites lack genotoxicity in both in vitro and in vivo studies. Constitutive androstane receptor (CAR) nuclear receptor-mediated activation has been hypothesized as the MOA for MIBK-induced mouse liver tumorigenesis. To further investigate the MOA for MIBK-induced murine liver tumors, male and female B6C3F1, C57BL/6, and CAR/PXR Knockout (KO) mice were exposed to either 0 or 1800 ppm MIBK for 6 h/day, 5 days/week for a total of 10 days. On day 1, mice were implanted with osmotic mini-pumps containing 5-Bromo-2-deoxyuridine (BrdU) 1 h following exposure and humanely euthanized 1-3 h following the final exposure. B6C3F 1 and C57BL/6 mice had statistically significant increases in liver weights compared to controls that corresponded with hepatocellular hypertrophy and increased mitotic figures. Hepatocellular proliferation data indicated induction of S-phase DNA synthesis in B6C3F 1 and C57BL/6 mice exposed to 1800 ppm MIBK compared to control, and no increase was observed in MIBK exposed CAR/PXR KO mice. Liver gene expression changes indicated a maximally-induced Cyp2b10 (CAR-associated) transcript and a slight increase in Cyp3a11(PXR-associated) transcript in B6C3F 1 and C57BL/6 mice exposed to 1800 ppm MIBK compared to controls, but not in Cyp1a1 (AhR-associated) or Cyp4a10 (PPAR-α-associated) transcripts. CAR/PXR KO mice exposed to 1800 ppm MIBK showed no evidence of activation of AhR, CAR, PXR or PPAR-α nuclear receptors via their associated transcripts. MIBK induced hepatic effects are consistent with a phenobarbital-like MOA where the initiating events are activation of the CAR and
40 CFR 130.6 - Water quality management plans.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 22 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Water quality management plans. 130.6... QUALITY PLANNING AND MANAGEMENT § 130.6 Water quality management plans. (a) Water quality management (WQM... when they are needed to address water quality problems. (1) Total maximum daily loads. TMDLs in...
Child diurnal cortisol rhythms, parenting quality, and externalizing behaviors in preadolescence.

PubMed

Martin, Christina Gamache; Kim, Hyoun K; Bruce, Jacqueline; Fisher, Philip A

2014-02-01

This study examined a neurobiologically informed model of the emergence of child externalizing behaviors in an ethnically diverse community sample of 232 9-12 year old children. Replicating extensive prior research, our analyses revealed that parents' inconsistent discipline and poor quality monitoring were predictive of child externalizing behavior. In addition, poor parental monitoring, but not inconsistent discipline, was associated with children having a significantly flatter morning-to-evening cortisol slope, which was in turn, related to higher levels of externalizing behaviors. An indirect effect of parental monitoring on externalizing behaviors, through child diurnal cortisol rhythms, was also supported. These findings highlight the role of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and its hormonal end product, cortisol, in the relationship between the caregiving environment and the development of externalizing behaviors. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Correlation of Glut-1 and Glut-3 expression with F-18 FDG uptake in pulmonary inflammatory lesions

PubMed Central

Wang, Zhen Guang; Yu, Ming Ming; Han, Yu; Wu, Feng Yu; Yang, Guang Jie; Li, Da Cheng; Liu, Si Min

2016-01-01

Abstract The aim of the study was to investigate the correlation of glucose transporter-1 (Glut-1) and glucose transporter-3 (Glut-3) expression with F-18 FDG uptake in pulmonary inflammatory lesions. Twenty-two patients with pulmonary inflammatory lesions underwent positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) examination preoperatively, and Glut-1 and Glut-3 expression were detected by immunohistochemistry in these lesions. Correlations of Glut-1 and Glut-3 with 18F-FDG uptake were assessed using Spearman's rank correlation test. The maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax) of pulmonary inflammatory lesions in 22 patients was 0.50 to 7.50, with a mean value of 3.66 ± 1.62. Immunohistochemical staining scores of Glut-1 and Glut-3 were 2.18 ± 0.96 and 2.82 ± 1.37, respectively. The expression of Glut-1 and Glut-3 was positively correlated with F-18 FDG uptake. Glut-3 expression was evidently higher than Glut-1 expression in 22 patients. Glut-1 and Glut-3 expressions are high in pulmonary inflammatory lesions, and Glut-3 plays a more important role in F-18 FDG uptake in pulmonary inflammatory lesions. PMID:27902598
Improvement of coagulation laboratory practice in Thailand: the first-year experience of the national external quality assessment scheme for blood coagulation.

PubMed

Tientadakul, Panutsaya; Opartkiattikul, Nisarat; Wongtiraporn, Wanida

2009-01-01

In Thailand until 2005 there had been no external quality assessment scheme at the national level for blood coagulation tests. Only a few laboratories had an external quality assessment for these tests. In the year 2005, the Thailand National External Quality Assessment Scheme for Blood Coagulation was founded. To describe the establishment of the Thailand National External Quality Assessment Scheme for Blood Coagulation (including problems encountered and solutions), its progression and expansion, and the improvement of coagulation laboratory practice in Thailand during 2 trial surveys and 4 formal surveys conducted in the first 1 1/2 years. Between 2005 and 2006, the external quality assessment samples for prothrombin time/international normalized ratio and activated partial thromboplastin time were distributed to the participants as well as the instructions and suggestions for the improvement of laboratory practice. From the data collected, the all-method coefficient of variation of the international normalized ratio and activated partial thromboplastin time was calculated for each survey. The number of participants increased during the first 1 1/2 years that the surveys were conducted, from 109 to 127. Survey data demonstrate an improvement in response rate and an increase in the number of laboratories that determine their own reference ranges and repeat this for every change of reagent lot, using the appropriate anticoagulant. The increased precision of tests is indicated by the decrease of the all-method coefficient of variation of the international normalized ratio and activated partial thromboplastin time. Examples of individual laboratory improvement through feedback are also described. The improvement of coagulation laboratory practice both through the instructions provided and liaison with participants was observed during the course of this scheme.
The external pore loop interacts with S6 and S3-S4 linker in domain 4 to assume an essential role in gating control and anticonvulsant action in the Na+ channel

PubMed Central

Yang, Ya-Chin; Hsieh, Jui-Yi

2009-01-01

Carbamazepine, phenytoin, and lamotrigine are widely prescribed anticonvulsants in neurological clinics. These drugs bind to the same receptor site, probably with the diphenyl motif in their structure, to inhibit the Na+ channel. However, the location of the drug receptor remains controversial. In this study, we demonstrate close proximity and potential interaction between an external aromatic residue (W1716 in the external pore loop) and an internal aromatic residue (F1764 in the pore-lining part of the sixth transmembrane segment, S6) of domain 4 (D4), both being closely related to anticonvulsant and/or local anesthetic binding to the Na+ channel. Double-mutant cycle analysis reveals significant cooperativity between the two phenyl residues for anticonvulsant binding. Concomitant F1764C mutation evidently decreases the susceptibility of W1716C to external Cd2+ and membrane-impermeable methanethiosulfonate reagents. Also, the W1716E/F1764R and G1715E/F1764R double mutations significantly alter the selectivity for Na+ over K+ and markedly shift the activation curve, respectively. W1716 and F1764 therefore very likely form a link connecting the outer and inner compartments of the Na+ channel pore (in addition to the selectivity filter). Anticonvulsants and local anesthetics may well traverse this “S6 recess” without trespassing on the selectivity filter. Furthermore, we found that Y1618K, a point mutation in the S3-4 linker (the extracellular extension of D4S4), significantly alters the consequences of carbamazepine binding to the Na+ channel. The effect of Y1618K mutation, however, is abolished by concomitant point mutations in the vicinity of Y1618, but not by those in the internally located inactivation machinery, supporting a direct local rather than a long-range allosteric action. Moreover, Y1618 could interact with D4 pore residues W1716 and L1719 to have a profound effect on both channel gating and anticonvulsant action. We conclude that there are direct
The external pore loop interacts with S6 and S3-S4 linker in domain 4 to assume an essential role in gating control and anticonvulsant action in the Na(+) channel.

PubMed

Yang, Ya-Chin; Hsieh, Jui-Yi; Kuo, Chung-Chin

2009-08-01

Carbamazepine, phenytoin, and lamotrigine are widely prescribed anticonvulsants in neurological clinics. These drugs bind to the same receptor site, probably with the diphenyl motif in their structure, to inhibit the Na(+) channel. However, the location of the drug receptor remains controversial. In this study, we demonstrate close proximity and potential interaction between an external aromatic residue (W1716 in the external pore loop) and an internal aromatic residue (F1764 in the pore-lining part of the sixth transmembrane segment, S6) of domain 4 (D4), both being closely related to anticonvulsant and/or local anesthetic binding to the Na(+) channel. Double-mutant cycle analysis reveals significant cooperativity between the two phenyl residues for anticonvulsant binding. Concomitant F1764C mutation evidently decreases the susceptibility of W1716C to external Cd(2+) and membrane-impermeable methanethiosulfonate reagents. Also, the W1716E/F1764R and G1715E/F1764R double mutations significantly alter the selectivity for Na(+) over K(+) and markedly shift the activation curve, respectively. W1716 and F1764 therefore very likely form a link connecting the outer and inner compartments of the Na(+) channel pore (in addition to the selectivity filter). Anticonvulsants and local anesthetics may well traverse this "S6 recess" without trespassing on the selectivity filter. Furthermore, we found that Y1618K, a point mutation in the S3-4 linker (the extracellular extension of D4S4), significantly alters the consequences of carbamazepine binding to the Na(+) channel. The effect of Y1618K mutation, however, is abolished by concomitant point mutations in the vicinity of Y1618, but not by those in the internally located inactivation machinery, supporting a direct local rather than a long-range allosteric action. Moreover, Y1618 could interact with D4 pore residues W1716 and L1719 to have a profound effect on both channel gating and anticonvulsant action. We conclude that there
Molecular dynamics simulations of the rotary motor F(0) under external electric fields across the membrane.

PubMed

Lin, Yang-Shan; Lin, Jung-Hsin; Chang, Chien-Cheng

2010-03-17

The membrane-bound component F(0), which is a major component of the F(0)F(1)-ATP synthase, works as a rotary motor and plays a central role in driving the F(1) component to transform chemiosmotic energy into ATP synthesis. We conducted molecular dynamics simulations of b(2)-free F(0) in a 1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-phosphatidylcholine lipid bilayer for tens of nanoseconds with two different protonation states of the cAsp-61 residue at the interface of the a-c complex in the absence of electric fields and under electric fields of +/-0.03 V/nm across the membrane. To our surprise, we observed that the upper half of the N-terminal helix of the c(1) subunit rotated about its axis clockwise by 30 degrees . An energetic analysis revealed that the electrostatic repulsion between this N-terminal helix and subunit c(12) was a major contributor to the observed rotation. A correlation map analysis indicated that the correlated motions of residues in the interface of the a-c complex were significantly reduced by external electric fields. The deuterium order parameter (S(CD)) profile calculated by averaging all the lipids in the F(0)-bound bilayer was not very different from that of the pure bilayer system, in agreement with recent (2)H solid-state NMR experiments. However, by delineating the lipid properties according to their vicinity to F(0), we found that the S(CD) profiles of different lipid shells were prominently different. Lipids close to F(0) formed a more ordered structure. Similarly, the lateral diffusion of lipids on the membrane surface also followed a shell-dependent behavior. The lipids in the proximity of F(0) exhibited very significantly reduced diffusional motion. The numerical value of S(CD) was anticorrelated with that of the diffusion coefficient, i.e., the more ordered lipid structures led to slower lipid diffusion. Our findings will help elucidate the dynamics of F(0) depending on the protonation state and electric field, and may also shed some light on the
Use of External Quality Control Material for HIV-1 RNA Testing To Assess the Comparability of Data Generated in Separate Laboratories and the Stability of HIV-1 RNA in Samples after Prolonged Storage.

PubMed

Jennings, Cheryl; Wager, Carrie G; Scianna, Salvatore R; Zaccaro, Daniel J; Couzens, Amy; Mellors, John W; Coombs, Robert W; Bremer, James W

2018-06-01

The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) AIDS Clinical Trials Group (ACTG) stores specimens from its clinical trials in a biorepository and permits the use of these specimens for nonprotocol exploratory studies, once the studies for the original protocol are concluded. We sought to assess the comparability of the data generated from real-time HIV-1 RNA testing during two clinical trials with the data generated from the retesting of different aliquots of the same samples after years of storage at -80°C. Overall, there was 92% agreement in the data generated for 1,570 paired samples (kappa statistic = 0.757; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.716 to 0.797), where samples were tested in one laboratory using the microwell plate (MWP) version of the Roche HIV-1 Monitor test within 1 to 37 days of collection and retested in another laboratory using the Cobas version of the assay after a median of 6.7 years of storage (range, 5.7 to 8.6 years). Historical external quality control data submitted to the NIAID Virology Quality Assurance program (VQA) by client laboratories using the same two versions of the Monitor assay were used to differentiate between systematic differences in the assays to evaluate the stability of HIV-1 RNA in the stored samples. No significant loss of RNA was noted in samples containing either a low concentration (<50 copies/ml) or a high concentration (≥50 copies/ml) of HIV-1 RNA ( P = 0.10 and P = 0.90, respectively) regardless of the time in storage. These data confirm the quality of the plasma samples in the ACTG biorepository following long-term storage. Copyright © 2018 American Society for Microbiology.
42 CFR 438.362 - Exemption from external quality review.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 42 Public Health 4 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Exemption from external quality review. 438.362 Section 438.362 Public Health CENTERS FOR MEDICARE & MEDICAID SERVICES, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN... Medicaid contract has been in effect for at least 2 consecutive years before the effective date of the...
HEPATOCARCINOGENICITY OF CHLORAL HYDRATE, 2-CHLOROACETALDEHYDE, AND DICHLOROACETIC ACID IN THE MALE B6C3F1 MOUSE

EPA Science Inventory

Chloral hydrate (CH) and 2-chloroacetaldehyde (CAA) have been identified as chlorination by-products in drinking water. oth chemicals are genotoxic, but their carcinogenic potential had not been adequately tested. hese bioassays were conducted using male B6C3F1 mice exposed to 1 ...
INDUCTION OF CYP1A1 AD CYP1B1 AND FORMATION OF DNA ADDUCTS IN C57BL/6, BALB/C, AND F1 MICE FOLLOWING IN UTERO EXPOSURE TO 3-METHYLCHOLANTHRENE

EPA Science Inventory

Fetal mice are more sensitive to chemical carcinogens than are adults. Previous studies from our laboratory demonstrated differences in the mutational spectrum induced in the Ki-ras gene from lung tumors isolated from [D2 x B6D2F1]F2 mice and Balb/c mice treated in utero with 3�m...
The neural correlates of internal and external comparisons: an fMRI study.

PubMed

Wen, Xue; Xiang, Yanhui; Cant, Jonathan S; Wang, Tingting; Cupchik, Gerald; Huang, Ruiwang; Mo, Lei

2017-01-01

Many previous studies have suggested that various comparisons rely on the same cognitive and neural mechanisms. However, little attention has been paid to exploring the commonalities and differences between the internal comparison based on concepts or rules and the external comparison based on perception. In the present experiment, moral beauty comparison and facial beauty comparison were selected as the representatives of internal comparison and external comparison, respectively. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) was used to record brain activity while participants compared the level of moral beauty of two scene drawings containing moral acts or the level of facial beauty of two face photos. In addition, a physical size comparison task with the same stimuli as the beauty comparison was included. We observed that both the internal moral beauty comparison and external facial beauty comparison obeyed a typical distance effect and this behavioral effect recruited a common frontoparietal network involved in comparisons of simple physical magnitudes such as size. In addition, compared to external facial beauty comparison, internal moral beauty comparison induced greater activity in more advanced and complex cortical regions, such as the bilateral middle temporal gyrus and middle occipital gyrus, but weaker activity in the putamen, a subcortical region. Our results provide novel neural evidence for the comparative process and suggest that different comparisons may rely on both common cognitive processes as well as distinct and specific cognitive components.
Li(x)FeF6 (x = 2, 3, 4) battery materials: structural, electronic and lithium diffusion properties.

PubMed

Schroeder, Melanie; Eames, Christopher; Tompsett, David A; Lieser, Georg; Islam, M Saiful

2013-12-21

Lithium iron fluoride materials have attracted recent interest as cathode materials for lithium ion batteries. The electrochemical properties of the high energy density Li(x)FeF6 (x = 2, 3, 4) materials have been evaluated using a combination of potential-based and DFT computational methods. Voltages of 6.1 V and 3.0 V are found for lithium intercalation from Li2FeF6 to α-Li3FeF6 and α-Li3FeF6 to Li4FeF6 respectively. The calculated density of states indicate that Li2FeF6 possesses metallic states that become strongly insulating after lithium intercalation to form α-Li3FeF6. The large energy gain associated with this metal-insulator transition is likely to contribute to the associated large voltage of 6.1 V. Molecular dynamics simulations of lithium diffusion in α-Li3FeF6 at typical battery operating temperatures indicate high lithium-ion mobility with low activation barriers. These results suggest the potential for good rate performance of lithium iron fluoride cathode materials.
CsFe3(SeO3)2F6 with S = 5/2 Cube Tile Lattice.

PubMed

Lu, Hongcheng; Kageyama, Hiroshi

2018-05-21

A layered iron selenite fluoride CsFe 3 (SeO 3 ) 2 F 6 1 was hydrothermally synthesized. Single-crystal X-ray diffraction studies show that 1 has a trigonal ( P3̅ m1) lattice, where [Fe 3 (SeO 3 ) 2 F 6 ] - blocks of three iron sublayers are separated by Cs cations. Within the block, only Fe(2)F 6 and Fe(1)O 3 F 3 octahedra are magnetically connected via superexchange Fe(1) -F -Fe(2) pathways, giving an S = 5/2 cube tile (dice) lattice. At low magnetic field, 1 exhibits an antiferromagnetic transition at ∼130 K, where ferrimagnetic cube tile layers are arranged in a staggered manner. At low temperatures, we observed a field-induced transition to a ferrimagnetic state with a one-third magnetization plateau.
[Development of methods and instruments for external quality assurance in inpatient parent-child rehabilitation and prevention].

PubMed

Neuderth, S; Lukasczik, M; Musekamp, G; Gerlich, C; Saupe-Heide, M; Löbmann, R; Vogel, H

2013-02-01

There so far is no standardized program for external quality assurance in inpatient parent-child prevention and rehabilitation in Germany. Therefore, instruments and methods of external quality assurance were developed and evaluated on behalf of the federal-level health insurance institutions. On the level of structure quality, a modular questionnaire for assessing structural features of rehabilitation/prevention centers, basic and allocation criteria as well as a checklist for visitations were developed. Structural data were collected in a nationwide survey of parent-child prevention and rehabilitation centers. Process and outcome quality data were collected in n=38 centers. Process quality was assessed using multiple methods (process-related structural features, case-related routine documentation, and incident-related patient questionnaires). Outcome quality was measured via patient questionnaires (n=1 799 patients). We used a multi-level modelling approach by adjusting relevant confounders on institutional and patient levels. The methods, instruments and analyzing procedures developed for measuring quality on the level of structure, processes and outcomes were adjusted in cooperation with all relevant stakeholders. Results are exemplarily presented for all quality assurance tools. For most of the risk-adjusted outcome parameters, we found no significant differences between institutions. For the first time, a comprehensive, standardized and generally applicable set of methods and instruments for routine use in comparative quality measurement of inpatient parent-child prevention and rehabilitation is available. However, it should be considered that the very heterogeneous field of family-oriented measures can not be covered entirely by an external quality assurance program. Therefore, methods and instruments have to be adapted continuously to the specifics of this area of health care and to new developments. © Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.
Immunotoxicological Profile of Chloroform in Female B6c3f1 Mice When Administered In Drinking Water

EPA Science Inventory

Chloroform can be formed as a disinfection by-product during water chlorination, one of the primary modalities for purifying municipal water supplies for human consumption. The goal of this study was to characterize the immunotoxic effects of chloroform in female B6C3F1 mice when...
''1/f noise'' in music: Music from 1/f noise

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

Voss, R.F.; Clarke, J.

1978-01-01

The spectral density of fluctuations in the audio power of many musical selections and of English speech varies approximately as 1/f (f is the frequency) down to a frequency of 5 x 10/sup -4/ Hz. This result implies that the audio-power fluctuations are correlated over all times in the same manner as ''1/f noise'' in electronic components. The frequency fluctuations of music also have a 1/f spectral density at frequencies down to the inverse of the length of the piece of music. The frequency fluctuations of English speech have a quite different behavior, with a single characteristic time of aboutmore » 0.1 s, the average length of a syllable. The observations on music suggest that 1/f noise is a good choice for stochastic composition. Compositions in which the frequency and duration of each note were determined by 1/f noise sources sounded pleasing. Those generated by white-noise sources sounded too random, while those generated by 1/f/sup 2/ noise sounded too correlated.« less

Functional characterization of the gene FoOCH1 encoding a putative α-1,6-mannosyltransferase in Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense.

PubMed

Li, Min-Hui; Xie, Xiao-Ling; Lin, Xian-Feng; Shi, Jin-Xiu; Ding, Zhao-Jian; Ling, Jin-Feng; Xi, Ping-Gen; Zhou, Jia-Nuan; Leng, Yueqiang; Zhong, Shaobin; Jiang, Zi-De

2014-04-01

Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense (FOC) is the causal agent of banana Fusarium wilt and has become one of the most destructive pathogens threatening the banana production worldwide. However, few genes related to morphogenesis and pathogenicity of this fungal pathogen have been functionally characterized. In this study, we identified and characterized the disrupted gene in a T-DNA insertional mutant (L953) of FOC with significantly reduced virulence on banana plants. The gene disrupted by T-DNA insertion in L953 harbors an open reading frame, which encodes a protein with homology to α-1,6-mannosyltransferase (OCH1) in fungi. The deletion mutants (ΔFoOCH1) of the OCH1 orthologue (FoOCH1) in FOC were impaired in fungal growth, exhibited brighter staining with fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)-Concanavalin A, had less cell wall proteins and secreted more proteins into liquid media than the wild type. Furthermore, the mutation or deletion of FoOCH1 led to loss of ability to penetrate cellophane membrane and decline in hyphal attachment and colonization as well as virulence to the banana host. The mutant phenotypes were fully restored by complementation with the wild type FoOCH1 gene. Our data provide a first evidence for the critical role of FoOCH1 in maintenance of cell wall integrity and virulence of F. oxysporum f. sp. cubense. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Parental Perceptions of Child Care Quality in Centre-Based and Home-Based Settings: Associations with External Quality Ratings

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lehrer, Joanne S.; Lemay, Lise; Bigras, Nathalie

2015-01-01

The current study examined how parental perceptions of child care quality were related to external quality ratings and considered how parental perceptions of quality varied according to child care context (home-based or centre-based settings). Parents of 179 4-year-old children who attended child care centres (n = 141) and home-based settings…
1-mJ Q-switched diode-pumped Nd:BaY2F8 laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Agnesi, Antonio; Carraro, Giovanni; Guandalini, Annalisa; Reali, Giancarlo; Sani, Elisa; Toncelli, Alessandra; Tonelli, Mauro

2004-08-01

We report what is to our knowledge the first high repetition rate Q-switched Nd:BaY2F8 (Nd:BaYF) laser pumped with a multiwatt fiber-coupled diode array tuned at 806 nm. As much as 2.42 W of average power and up to 1.05 mJ of pulse energy were obtained with 6.1 W of absorbed pump power, with excellent beam quality (M2<1.2) and linear polarization.
Comparison of immunoexpression of 2 antibodies for estrogen receptors (1D5 and 6F11) in breast carcinomas using different antigen retrieval and detection methods.

PubMed

Vassallo, J; Pinto, G A; Alvarenga, J M; Zeferino, L C; Chagas, C A; Metze, K

2004-06-01

The importance of in situ immunodetection of hormone receptors for therapy planning and prognostic evaluation in patients with breast carcinoma is well established. Sensitive detection methods are of utmost importance, especially in poorly fixed tissues, which are not uncommon in routine pathologic practice. The purpose of the present study is to compare immunoexpression of estrogen receptors in 20 cases of invasive ductal carcinoma using two antibodies, 1D5 and 6F11, and to verify the effect of different antigen retrieval solutions and detection systems. Immunoperoxidase was performed on paraffin sections using 1D5 and 6F11 as primary antibodies. Heat-induced antigen retrieval was performed using citrate buffer (pH 6.0) or Tris-EDTA buffer (pH 8.9). Detection was achieved using the following systems: EnVision, EnVision Plus, and labeled streptavidin-biotin peroxidase complex. Reaction was semiquantified from 0 to 4. There were no differences between the two markers, 1D5 and 6F11, except when 6F11 was used with EnVision and citrate buffer, in which case weaker reactivity was observed. Only in this combination (6F11/EnVision) was EDTA buffer significantly better than citrate. Labeled streptavidin-biotin peroxidase complex presented the best results, followed by EnVision Plus.
Immunohistochemical study of macrophage migration inhibitory factor in rat liver fibrosis induced by thioacetamide.

PubMed

Hori, Y; Sato, S; Yamate, J; Kurasaki, M; Nishihira, J; Hosokawa, T; Fujita, H; Saito, T

2003-01-01

Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) is a molecule known to regulate macrophage accumulation at sites of inflammation. To elucidate the role of MIF in progression of liver fibrosis, the immunohistochemical localization of MIF and macrophages in the liver were examined. Male Wistar rats received thioacetamide (TA) injections (200 mg/kg, i.p.) for 1 or 6 weeks. In biochemical and histological tests, it was confirmed that liver fibrosis was induced. In immunohistochemical analyses, the expression of MIF protein was seen in hepatocytes in the areas extending out from the central veins to the portal tracts. In particular, at 6 weeks, immunoreactivity was detected in degenerated hepatocytes adjacent to the fibrotic areas but hardly observed in the fibrotic areas. On the other hand, a number of exudate macrophages stained by antibody ED1 were seen in the areas from the central veins to the portal tracts at 1 week and in the fibrotic areas at 6 weeks. Macrophages also showed a significant increase in number as compared with controls. These results revealed that there was a close relationship between the appearance of MIF expression and ED1-positive exudate macrophages in degenerated hepatocytes during the progression of TA-induced liver fibrosis.
Phase Transitions in MIITiF6 · 6H2O (M = Cd, Zn, Co): An EPR Study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jayaram, Geetha

1994-05-01

Paramagnetic Mn2+ ions have been incorporated into CdTiF6 · 6H2O, ZnTiF6 · 6H2O and CoTiF6 · 6H2O single crystals, and EPR spectra have been utilized to investigate the structural phase transitions in these crystals. They are first order in nature with a marked hysteresis in the case of CoTiF6 · 6H2O and are attributed to hindering of rotation of the [M(H2O)6] as well as (TiF6) groups.
Reevaluation and Classification of Duodenal Lesions in B6C3F1 Mice and F344 Rats from 4 Studies of Hexavalent Chromium in Drinking Water.

PubMed

Cullen, John M; Ward, Jerrold M; Thompson, Chad M

2016-02-01

Thirteen-week and 2-year drinking water studies conducted by the National Toxicology Program (NTP) reported that hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) induced diffuse epithelial hyperplasia in the duodenum of B6C3F1 mice but not F344 rats. In the 2-year study, Cr(VI) exposure was additionally associated with duodenal adenomas and carcinomas in mice only. Subsequent 13-week Cr(VI) studies conducted by another group demonstrated non-neoplastic duodenal lesions in B6C3F1 mice similar to those of the NTP study as well as mild duodenal hyperplasia in F344 rats. Because intestinal lesions in mice are the basis for proposed safety standards for Cr(VI), and the histopathology data are relevant to the mode of action, consistency (an important Hill criterion for causality) was assessed across the aforementioned studies. Two veterinary pathologists applied uniform diagnostic criteria to the duodenal lesions in rats and mice from the 4 repeated-dose studies. Comparable non-neoplastic intestinal lesions were evident in mice and rats from all 4 studies; however, the incidence and severity of intestinal lesions were greater in mice than rats. These findings demonstrate consistency across studies and species and highlight the importance of standardized nomenclature for intestinal pathology. The differences in the severity of non-neoplastic lesions also likely contribute to the differential tumor response. © The Author(s) 2015.
Reevaluation and Classification of Duodenal Lesions in B6C3F1 Mice and F344 Rats from 4 Studies of Hexavalent Chromium in Drinking Water

PubMed Central

Cullen, John M.; Ward, Jerrold M.

2015-01-01

Thirteen-week and 2-year drinking water studies conducted by the National Toxicology Program (NTP) reported that hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) induced diffuse epithelial hyperplasia in the duodenum of B6C3F1 mice but not F344 rats. In the 2-year study, Cr(VI) exposure was additionally associated with duodenal adenomas and carcinomas in mice only. Subsequent 13-week Cr(VI) studies conducted by another group demonstrated non-neoplastic duodenal lesions in B6C3F1 mice similar to those of the NTP study as well as mild duodenal hyperplasia in F344 rats. Because intestinal lesions in mice are the basis for proposed safety standards for Cr(VI), and the histopathology data are relevant to the mode of action, consistency (an important Hill criterion for causality) was assessed across the aforementioned studies. Two veterinary pathologists applied uniform diagnostic criteria to the duodenal lesions in rats and mice from the 4 repeated-dose studies. Comparable non-neoplastic intestinal lesions were evident in mice and rats from all 4 studies; however, the incidence and severity of intestinal lesions were greater in mice than rats. These findings demonstrate consistency across studies and species and highlight the importance of standardized nomenclature for intestinal pathology. The differences in the severity of non-neoplastic lesions also likely contribute to the differential tumor response. PMID:26538584
Oscillations and waves in a spatially distributed system with a 1/f spectrum

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Koverda, V. P.; Skokov, V. N.

2018-02-01

A spatially distributed system with a 1/f power spectrum is described by two nonlinear stochastic equations. Conditions for the formation of auto-oscillations have been found using numerical methods. The formation of a 1/f and 1/k spectrum simultaneously with the formation and motion of waves under the action of white noise has been demonstrated. The large extreme fluctuations with 1/f and 1/k spectra correspond to the maximum entropy, which points to the stability of such processes. It is shown that on the background of formation and motion of waves at an external periodic action there appears spatio-temporal stochastic resonance, at which one can observe the expansion of the region of periodic pulsations under the action of white noise.
Massive localized lymphedema of the male external genitalia: a clinicopathologic study of 6 cases.

PubMed

Lee, Stephen; Han, Jeong S; Ross, Hillary M; Epstein, Jonathan I

2013-02-01

Massive localized lymphedema is a reactive pseudotumor strongly associated with obesity. The tumor most commonly presents as pendulous masses in the lower limbs with only 3 reported cases involving external male genitalia. In this study, we report an additional 6 cases localized to the external male genitalia. The cases were retrospectively identified from the surgical pathology database of the Johns Hopkins Hospital. All 6 patients were obese (5 presented with diffuse scrotal edema and 1 with a penile mass). In all cases, the clinical impression was of a benign chronic process developing over 3 months to 1 year. All 3 cases from outside institutions were referred with benign pathologic diagnoses. The lesions ranged in size from 4 to 55 cm. Microscopically, all cases exhibited stromal fibrosis and edema, multinucleated stromal cells, perivascular chronic inflammation, and lymphangiectasia. Entrapped fat was a minor feature and seen in only 3 cases. Variable hyperplasia and hypertrophy of dartos muscle were noted in 6 lesions. Three cases showed prominent microvascular proliferation around the edge of individual dartos muscle bundles. In summary, diagnosis of massive localized lymphedema requires appropriate correlation between clinical and microscopic findings. Lesions in the male external genitalia share many microscopic findings with massive localized lymphedema at other sites, although entrapped adipose tissue is not prominent. Additional, although not specific, findings include variably hyperplastic and hypertrophic dartos muscle and capillary neoangiogenesis at the interface between smooth muscle bundles and stroma. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
External validity of the pediatric cardiac quality of life inventory

PubMed Central

Marino, Bradley S.; Drotar, Dennis; Cassedy, Amy; Davis, Richard; Tomlinson, Ryan S.; Mellion, Katelyn; Mussatto, Kathleen; Mahony, Lynn; Newburger, Jane W.; Tong, Elizabeth; Cohen, Mitchell I.; Helfaer, Mark A.; Kazak, Anne E.; Wray, Jo; Wernovsky, Gil; Shea, Judy A.; Ittenbach, Richard

2012-01-01

Purpose The Pediatric Cardiac Quality of Life Inventory (PCQLI) is a disease-specific, health-related quality of life (HRQOL) measure for pediatric heart disease (HD). The purpose of this study was to demonstrate the external validity of PCQLI scores. Methods The PCQLI development site (Development sample) and six geographically diverse centers in the United States (Composite sample) recruited pediatric patients with acquired or congenital HD. Item response option variability, scores [Total (TS); Disease Impact (DI) and Psychosocial Impact (PI) subscales], patterns of correlation, and internal consistency were compared between samples. Results A total of 3,128 patients and parent participants (1,113 Development; 2,015 Composite) were analyzed. Response option variability patterns of all items in both samples were acceptable. Inter-sample score comparisons revealed no differences. Median item–total (Development, 0.57; Composite, 0.59) and item–subscale (Development, DI 0.58, PI 0.59; Composite, DI 0.58, PI 0.56) correlations were moderate. Subscale–subscale (0.79 for both samples) and subscale–total (Development, DI 0.95, PI 0.95; Composite, DI 0.95, PI 0.94) correlations and internal consistency (Development, TS 0.93, DI 0.90, PI 0.84; Composite, TS 0.93, DI 0.89, PI 0.85) were high in both samples. Conclusion PCQLI scores are externally valid across the US pediatric HD population and may be used for multi-center HRQOL studies. PMID:21188538
Electron-impact-ionization dynamics of S F6

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bull, James N.; Lee, Jason W. L.; Vallance, Claire

2017-10-01

A detailed understanding of the dissociative electron ionization dynamics of S F6 is important in the modeling and tuning of dry-etching plasmas used in the semiconductor manufacture industry. This paper reports a crossed-beam electron ionization velocity-map imaging study on the dissociative ionization of cold S F6 molecules, providing complete, unbiased kinetic energy distributions for all significant product ions. Analysis of these distributions suggests that fragmentation following single ionization proceeds via formation of S F5 + or S F3 + ions that then dissociate in a statistical manner through loss of F atoms or F2, until most internal energy has been liberated. Similarly, formation of stable dications is consistent with initial formation of S F4 2 + ions, which then dissociate on a longer time scale. These data allow a comparison between electron ionization and photoionization dynamics, revealing similar dynamical behavior. In parallel with the ion kinetic energy distributions, the velocity-map imaging approach provides a set of partial ionization cross sections for all detected ionic fragments over an electron energy range of 50-100 eV, providing partial cross sections for S2 +, and enables the cross sections for S F4 2 + from S F+ to be resolved.
Phase transitions in the (Ni,Zn)TiF 6 · 6H 2O system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lichti, R. L.; Jan, I.-Yuan; Casey, K. G.

1989-02-01

Measurements of the transformation rates and the characteristic temperatures of the trigonal ≡ monoclinic structural change in (Ni 1- xZn x)TiF 6 · 6H 2O show a double transition up to x = 0.5. The relationships between the phase changes generally observed in the ABF 6 · 6H 2O system and the internal motions of the octahedral ionic complexes are discussed, and a phase diagram for the mixed nickel/zinc fluorotitanate is established.
Time-course of effects of external beam radiation on [18F]FDG uptake in healthy tissue and bone marrow.

PubMed

Kesner, Adam L; Lau, Victoria K; Speiser, Michael; Hsueh, Wei-Ann; Agazaryan, Nzhde; DeMarco, John J; Czernin, Johannes; Silverman, Daniel H S

2008-06-23

The utility of PET for monitoring responses to radiation therapy have been complicated by metabolically active processes in surrounding normal tissues. We examined the time-course of [18F]FDG uptake in normal tissues using small animal-dedicated PET during the 2 month period following external beam radiation. Four mice received 12 Gy of external beam radiation, in a single fraction to the left half of the body. Small animal [18F]FDG-PET scans were acquired for each mouse at 0 (pre-radiation), 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 12, 19, 24, and 38 days following irradiation. [18F]FDG activity in various tissues was compared between irradiated and non-irradiated body halves before, and at each time point after irradiation. Radiation had a significant impact on [18F]FDG uptake in previously healthy tissues, and time-course of effects differed in different types of tissues. For example, liver tissue demonstrated increased uptake, particularly over days 3-12, with the mean left to right uptake ratio increasing 52% over mean baseline values (p < 0.0001). In contrast, femoral bone marrow uptake demonstrated decreased uptake, particularly over days 2-8, with the mean left to right uptake ratio decreasing 26% below mean baseline values (p = 0.0005). Significant effects were also seen in lung and brain tissue. Radiation had diverse effects on [18F]FDG uptake in previously healthy tissues. These kinds of data may help lay groundwork for a systematically acquired database of the time-course of effects of radiation on healthy tissues, useful for animal models of cancer therapy imminently, as well as interspecies extrapolations pertinent to clinical application eventually.
Zn3Sb4O6F6: Hydrothermal synthesis, crystal structure and nonlinear optical properties

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ali, Sk Imran; Zhang, Weiguo; Halasyamani, P. Shiv; Johnsson, Mats

2017-12-01

Zn3Sb4O6F6 has been synthesized hydrothermally at 230 °C. The crystal structure was determined from single crystal X-ray diffraction data. It crystallizes in the cubic non-centrosymmetric space group I-43m with the unit cell parameter a = 8.1291(4) Å and is isostructural with M3Sb4O6F6 (M = Co, Ni). The new compound is the first oxofluoride containing Zn2+ and a p-element cation with a stereochemically active lone pair. The crystal structure is made up by [ZnO2F4] octahedra forming a network via corner sharing at F-atoms and [SbO3] trigonal pyramids that form [Sb4O6] cages that connect via the O-atoms to the Zn-atoms. Powder second-harmonic generation (SHG) measurements using 1064 nm radiation on Zn3Sb4O6F6 indicate an SHG intensity of approximately 40 × α-SiO2.
External quality assurance performance of clinical research laboratories in sub-saharan Africa.

PubMed

Amukele, Timothy K; Michael, Kurt; Hanes, Mary; Miller, Robert E; Jackson, J Brooks

2012-11-01

Patient Safety Monitoring in International Laboratories (JHU-SMILE) is a resource at Johns Hopkins University that supports and monitors laboratories in National Institutes of Health-funded international clinical trials. To determine the impact of the JHU-SMILE quality assurance scheme in sub-Saharan African laboratories, we reviewed 40 to 60 months of external quality assurance (EQA) results of the College of American Pathologists (CAP) in these laboratories. We reviewed the performance of 8 analytes: albumin, alanine aminotransferase, creatinine, sodium, WBC, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and the human immunodeficiency virus antibody rapid test. Over the 40- to 60-month observation period, the sub-Saharan laboratories had a 1.63% failure rate, which was 40% lower than the 2011 CAP-wide rate of 2.8%. Seventy-six percent of the observed EQA failures occurred in 4 of the 21 laboratories. These results demonstrate that a system of remote monitoring, feedback, and audits can support quality in low-resource settings, even in places without strong regulatory support for laboratory quality.
Higher Education Quality: Perception Differences among Internal and External Stakeholders

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Abidin, Munirul

2015-01-01

Conceptually, education quality of higher education can be determined by evaluation of their stakeholders's satisfaction level. The purpose of this study is to describe how students as external stakeholder and lecturers as internal stakeholder, perceived their satisfaction of learning experience in the university. This study was conducted in…
Some mechanical properties of small specimens cut from 1.79-inch-thick southern pine dried for 6 hours at 300°F or for 5 days at 180°F- A Comparison

Treesearch

P. Koch; W.L. Wellford

1978-01-01

Small specimens cut from 1.79-inch-thick southern pine dried from green condition for 6 hours at a dry-bulb temperature of 300 F suffered no diminution in the mechanical properties determined, when compared to matched wood dried for 5 days at 180 F.
Can a combination of average of normals and "real time" External Quality Assurance replace Internal Quality Control?

PubMed

Badrick, Tony; Graham, Peter

2018-03-28

Internal Quality Control and External Quality Assurance are separate but related processes that have developed independently in laboratory medicine over many years. They have different sample frequencies, statistical interpretations and immediacy. Both processes have evolved absorbing new understandings of the concept of laboratory error, sample material matrix and assay capability. However, we do not believe at the coalface that either process has led to much improvement in patient outcomes recently. It is the increasing reliability and automation of analytical platforms along with improved stability of reagents that has reduced systematic and random error, which in turn has minimised the risk of running less frequent IQC. We suggest that it is time to rethink the role of both these processes and unite them into a single approach using an Average of Normals model supported by more frequent External Quality Assurance samples. This new paradigm may lead to less confusion for laboratory staff and quicker responses to and identification of out of control situations.
Immunohistochemical features of the gastrointestinal tract tumors

PubMed Central

Wong, Hannah H.

2012-01-01

Gastrointestinal tract tumors include a wide variety of vastly different tumors and on a whole are one of the most common malignancies in western countries. These tumors often present at late stages as distant metastases which are then biopsied and may be difficult to differentiate without the aid of immunohistochemical stains. With the exception of pancreatic and biliary tumors where there are no distinct immunohistochemical patterns, most gastrointestinal tumors can be differentiated by their unique immunohistochemical profile. As the size of biopsies decrease, the role of immunohistochemical stains will become even more important in determining the origin and differentiation of gastrointestinal tract tumors. PMID:22943017

NTP technical report on toxicity studies of cadmium oxide (Cas No. 1306-19-0) administered by inhalation to F344/N rats and B6C3f1 mice. Toxicity report series

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

NONE

1995-03-01

Three thousand tons of cadmium are imported or produced annually in the United States, and approximately 90% of this is cadmium oxide. Cadmium oxide is used in batteries, electroplating baths, pigments, plastics, synthetic products, and a variety of other materials. Cadmium oxide was nominated for study by the National Cancer Institute because of its widespread use and to obtain toxicity and carcinogenicity information. This report describes toxicity studies of cadmium oxide aerosol in F344/N rats and B6C3F1 mice, including sperm motility and vaginal cytology evaluations, and developmental toxicity studies of cadmium oxide aerosol in Sprague-Dawley rats and Swiss (CD-1) mice.more » Genetic toxicology studies were done in Salmonella typhimurium and B6C3F1 mice erythrocytes.« less
Isolation and structures of sulfonium salts derived from thioethers: [{o-C(6)H(4)(CH(2)SMe)(2)}H][NbF(6)] and [{[9]aneS(3)}H][NbF(6)].

PubMed

Jura, Marek; Levason, William; Reid, Gillian; Webster, Michael

2009-10-07

Two very unusual sulfonium salts, [{o-C(6)H(4)(CH(2)SMe)(2)}H][NbF(6)] and [{[9]aneS(3)}H][NbF(6)], obtained from reaction of the thioethers with NbF(5) in CH(2)Cl(2) solution, are reported and their structures described; the eight-coordinate tetrafluoro Nb(v) cation of the dithioether is obtained from the same reaction.
Implementation of the External Quality Assessment Program in Brazil.

PubMed

Fleury, Marcos Kneip; Menezes, Maria Elizabeth; Correa, José Abol

2017-02-15

The External Quality Assessment (EQA) in Brazil is performed by the National Health Ministry for diseases that are under supervision of Public Health Department. In addition to the government program, the Brazilian Society of Clinical Analysis and the Brazilian Society of Medical Pathology are allowed to provide their programs under the Supervision of National Agency for Sanitary Surveillance (ANVISA) that regulates laboratories to perform EQA programs.
Perceived family functioning, adolescent psychopathology and quality of life in the general population: a 6-month follow-up study.

PubMed

Jozefiak, Thomas; Wallander, Jan L

2016-04-01

The aim of the study was to investigate whether perceived family functioning of adolescent is moderating or mediating the longitudinal association of adolescent internalizing and externalizing psychopathology with quality of life (QoL) after 6 months in the general population. Using a cluster sampling technique in one Norwegian county 1331, 10- to 16-year-old students were included in the study (51 % girls). Parents completed the Child Behavior Checklist for the assessment of adolescent psychopathology at Time 1. The students completed the General Functioning Scale of the McMaster Family Assessment Device and the Inventory of Life Quality in Children and Adolescents at time 2 6 months later. Psychopathology, family functioning and QoL were treated as latent variables in a structural equation model adjusted for sex, age and parent education. The regression coefficients for paths from psychopathology decreased (β = .199 for the internalizing and β = .102 for the externalizing model) in each case when including the indirect path via family functioning compared with the direct path from psychopathology to QoL. The sum of indirect effects on QoL via family functioning was significant for internalizing β = 0.093 (95 % CI 0.054-0.133) and externalizing β = 0.119 (95 % CI 0.076-0.162) psychopathology. Family functioning significantly mediated the longitudinal association between psychopathology and QoL. Because the family remains an important social domain for adolescents, it must be an important consideration when attempting to reduce or alleviate psychopathology in youth and improve the quality of their life experience throughout this period.
16 CFR Appendix F1 to Part 305 - Standard Clothes Washers

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... 16 Commercial Practices 1 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Standard Clothes Washers F1 Appendix F1 to... LABELING RULEâ) Pt. 305, App. F1 Appendix F1 to Part 305—Standard Clothes Washers Range Information “Standard” includes all household clothes washers with a tub capacity of 1.6 cu. ft. or more. Capacity Range...
NTP toxicity studies of sodium dichromate dihydrate (CAS No. 7789-12-0) administered in drinking water to male and female F344/N rats and B6C3F1 mice and male BALB/c and am3-C57BL/6 mice.

PubMed

Bucher, John R

2007-01-01

Sodium dichromate dihydrate is one of a number of inorganic compounds containing hexavalent chromium (CR VI) found in drinking water supplies as a contaminant resulting from various industrial processes including electroplating operations, leather tanning, and textile manufacturing. Because of the lack of adequate experimental data on the toxicity and carcinogenicity of hexavalent chromium ingested orally, and because hexavalent chromium has been found in human drinking water supplies, the California Congressional delegation and the California Environmental Protection Agency nominated hexavalent chromium to the NTP for study. In study 1, male and female F344/N rats and B6C3F1 mice were exposed to sodium dichromate dihydrate (greater than 99% pure) in drinking water for 3 months. In study 2, sodium dichromate dihydrate was administered in drinking water to male B6C3F1, BALB/c, and am3-C57BL/6 mice for 3 months. Genetic toxicology studies were conducted in Salmonella typhimurium, Escherichia coli, and mouse peripheral blood erythrocytes. In study 1, groups of 10 male and 10 female F344/N rats and B6C3F1 mice were given drinking water containing 0, 62.5, 125, 250, 500, or 1,000 mg sodium dichromate dihydrate/L for 3 months (equivalent to average daily doses of approximately 5, 10, 17, 32, or 60 mg sodium dichromate dihydrate/kg body weight to rats and 9, 15, 26, 45, or 80 mg/kg to mice). On a molecular weight basis, these doses are equivalent to approximately 1.7, 3.5, 5.9, 11.2, and 20.9 mg hexavalent chromium/kg body weight per day to rats and 3.1, 5.2, 9.1, 15.7, and 27.9 mg/kg per day to mice. Additional groups of 10 rats per sex were exposed to the same concentrations of sodium dichromate dihydrate for 4 weeks. All rats and mice survived to the end of the study. Reduced body weights occurred in 500 and 1,000 mg/L male rats, 1,000 mg/L female rats, and in male and female mice exposed to 125 mg/L or greater. Water consumption by male and female rats exposed to 250
Higher quality of molecular testing, an unfulfilled priority: Results from external quality assessment for KRAS mutation testing in colorectal cancer.

PubMed

Tembuyser, Lien; Ligtenberg, Marjolijn J L; Normanno, Nicola; Delen, Sofie; van Krieken, J Han; Dequeker, Elisabeth M C

2014-05-01

Precision medicine is now a key element in clinical oncology. RAS mutational status is a crucial predictor of responsiveness to anti-epidermal growth factor receptor agents in metastatic colorectal cancer. In an effort to guarantee high-quality testing services in molecular pathology, the European Society of Pathology has been organizing an annual KRAS external quality assessment program since 2009. In 2012, 10 formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded samples, of which 8 from invasive metastatic colorectal cancer tissue and 2 artificial samples of cell line material, were sent to more than 100 laboratories from 26 countries with a request for routine KRAS testing. Both genotyping and clinical reports were assessed independently. Twenty-seven percent of the participants genotyped at least 1 of 10 samples incorrectly. In total, less than 5% of the distributed specimens were genotyped incorrectly. Genotyping errors consisted of false negatives, false positives, and incorrectly genotyped mutations. Twenty percent of the laboratories reported a technical error for one or more samples. A review of the written reports showed that several essential elements were missing, most notably a clinical interpretation of the test result, the method sensitivity, and the use of a reference sequence. External quality assessment serves as a valuable educational tool in assessing and improving molecular testing quality and is an important asset for monitoring quality assurance upon incorporation of new biomarkers in diagnostic services. Copyright © 2014 American Society for Investigative Pathology and the Association for Molecular Pathology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Variability in Immunohistochemical Detection of Programmed Death Ligand 1 (PD-L1) in Cancer Tissue Types

PubMed Central

Scognamiglio, Giosuè; De Chiara, Anna; Di Bonito, Maurizio; Tatangelo, Fabiana; Losito, Nunzia Simona; Anniciello, Annamaria; De Cecio, Rossella; D’Alterio, Crescenzo; Scala, Stefania; Cantile, Monica; Botti, Gerardo

2016-01-01

In normal cell physiology, programmed death 1 (PD-1) and its ligand, PD-L1, play an immunoregulatory role in T-cell activation, tolerance, and immune-mediated tissue damage. The PD-1/PD-L1 pathway also plays a critical role in immune escape of tumor cells and has been demonstrated to correlate with a poor prognosis of patients with several types of cancer. However, recent reports have revealed that the immunohistochemical (IHC) expression of the PD-L1 in tumor cells is not uniform for the use of different antibodies clones, with variable specificity, often doubtful topographical localization, and with a score not uniquely defined. The purpose of this study was to analyze the IHC expression of PD-L1 on a large series of several human tumors to correctly define its staining in different tumor tissues. PMID:27213372
Effectiveness of Vascular Markers (Immunohistochemical Stains) in Soft Tissue Sarcomas.

PubMed

Naeem, Namra; Mushtaq, Sajid; Akhter, Noreen; Hussain, Mudassar; Hassan, Usman

2018-05-01

To ascertain the effectiveness of IHC markers of vascular origin like CD31, CD34, FLI1 and ERG in vascular soft tissue sarcomas including angiosarcomas, Kaposi sarcomas, epithelioid hemangioendothelioma and a non-vascular soft tissue sarcoma (Epithelioid sarcoma). Descriptive study. Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital and Research Centre, Lahore, from 2011 to 2017. Diagnosed cases of angiosarcomas (n=48), epithelioid hemangioendothelioma (n=9), Kaposi sarcoma (n=9) and epithelioid sarcoma (n=20) were selected. Immunohistochemical staining as performed on formalin fixed paraffin embedded sections. The sections were stained for the following markers: CD34 (VENTANA clone Q Bend 10), CD31 (Leica clone 1 A 10), FLI1 (CELL MARQUE clone MRQ-1) and ERG (CELL MARQUE clone EP111). A complete panel of CD34, CD31 and ERG was applied on 8/48 cases of angiosarcomas with triple positivity in 6 cases. Eight cases showed positivity for only CD31 and ERG and 2 cases showed positivity for only ERG. A complete panel of CD34, CD31 and ERG was applied on 3/9 cases of epithelioid hemangioendothelioma with positivity for all markers in 2 cases. Combined positivity for ERG and CD34 was seen in 2 cases and on 4 cases only CD31 immunohistochemical was solely applied with 100% positivity. FLI1 was not applied on any case. Among 9 cases of Kaposi sarcoma, ERG, CD34 and CD31 in combination were applied on only 1 case with triple positivity. Remaining cases show positivity for either CD34, CD31 or FLI1. Majority of cases of epithelioid sarcomas were diagnosed on the basis of cytokeratin and CD34 positivity with loss of INI1. The other vascular markers showed negativity in all cases. Among these four markers, ERG immunohistochemical stain is highly effective for endothelial differentiation due to its specific nuclear staining pattern in normal blood vessel endothelial cells (internal control) as well as neoplastic cells of vascular tumors and lack of background staining.
IL-6 and PD-L1 antibody blockade combination therapy reduces tumour progression in murine models of pancreatic cancer.

PubMed

Mace, Thomas A; Shakya, Reena; Pitarresi, Jason R; Swanson, Benjamin; McQuinn, Christopher W; Loftus, Shannon; Nordquist, Emily; Cruz-Monserrate, Zobeida; Yu, Lianbo; Young, Gregory; Zhong, Xiaoling; Zimmers, Teresa A; Ostrowski, Michael C; Ludwig, Thomas; Bloomston, Mark; Bekaii-Saab, Tanios; Lesinski, Gregory B

2018-02-01

Limited efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) has prompted investigation into combination therapy. We hypothesised that interleukin 6 (IL-6) blockade would modulate immunological features of PDAC and enhance the efficacy of anti-programmed death-1-ligand 1 (PD-L1) checkpoint inhibitor therapy. Transcription profiles and IL-6 secretion from primary patient-derived pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) were analyzed via Nanostring and immunohistochemistry, respectively. In vivo efficacy and mechanistic studies were conducted with antibodies (Abs) targeting IL-6, PD-L1, CD4 or CD8 in subcutaneous or orthotopic models using Panc02, MT5 or KPC-luc cell lines; and the aggressive, genetically engineered PDAC model (Kras LSL-G12D , Trp53 LSL-R270H , Pdx1-cre, Brca2 F/F (KPC-Brca2 mice)). Systemic and local changes in immunophenotype were measured by flow cytometry or immunohistochemical analysis. PSCs (n=12) demonstrated prominent IL-6 expression, which was localised to stroma of tumours. Combined IL-6 and PD-L1 blockade elicited efficacy in mice bearing subcutaneous MT5 (p<0.02) and Panc02 tumours (p=0.046), which was accompanied by increased intratumoural effector T lymphocytes (CD62L - CD44 - ). CD8-depleting but not CD4-depleting Abs abrogated the efficacy of combined IL-6 and PD-L1 blockade in mice bearing Panc02 tumours (p=0.0016). This treatment combination also elicited significant antitumour activity in mice bearing orthotopic KPC-luc tumours and limited tumour progression in KPC-Brca2 mice (p<0.001). Histological analysis revealed increased T-cell infiltration and reduced α-smooth muscle actin cells in tumours from multiple models. Finally, IL-6 and PD-L1 blockade increased overall survival in KPC-Brca2 mice compared with isotype controls (p=0.0012). These preclinical results indicate that targeted inhibition of IL-6 may enhance the efficacy of anti-PD-L1 in PDAC. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For
Hard X-ray photoemission study of the Fabre salts (TMTTF)2X (X = SbF6 and PF6)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Medjanik, Katerina; de Souza, Mariano; Kutnyakhov, Dmytro; Gloskovskii, Andrei; Müller, Jens; Lang, Michael; Pouget, Jean-Paul; Foury-Leylekian, Pascale; Moradpour, Alec; Elmers, Hans-Joachim; Schönhense, Gerd

2014-11-01

Core-level photoemission spectra of the Fabre salts with X = SbF6 and PF6 were taken using hard X-rays from PETRA III, Hamburg. In these salts TMTTF layers show a significant stack dimerization with a charge transfer of 1 e per dimer to the anion SbF6 or PF6. At room temperature and slightly below the core-level spectra exhibit single lines, characteristic for a well-screened metallic state. At reduced temperatures progressive charge localization sets in, followed by a 2nd order phase transition into a charge-ordered ground state. In both salts groups of new core-level signals occur, shifted towards lower kinetic energies. This is indicative of a reduced transverse-conductivity across the anion layers, visible as layer-dependent charge depletion for both samples. The surface potential was traced via shifts of core-level signals of an adsorbate. A well-defined potential could be established by a conducting cap layer of 5 nm aluminum which appears "transparent" due to the large probing depth of HAXPES (8-10 nm). At the transition into the charge-ordered phase the fluorine 1 s line of (TMTTF)2SbF6 shifts by 2.8 eV to higher binding energy. This is a spectroscopic fingerprint of the loss of inversion symmetry accompanied by a cooperative shift of the SbF6 anions towards the more positively charged TMTTF donors. This shift does not occur for the X = PF6 compound, most likely due to smaller charge disproportion or due to the presence of charge disorder.
The existence and gas phase acidity of the HAlnF3n+1 superacids (n = 1-4)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Czapla, Marcin; Skurski, Piotr

2015-06-01

Novel strong superacids are proposed and investigated on the basis of ab initio calculations. The gas phase acidity of the HAlF4, HAl2F7, and HAl3F10 systems evaluated by the estimation of the Gibbs free energies of their deprotonation reactions were found significant and comparable to the corresponding value characterizing the HTaF6, whereas the strength of the HAl4F13 acid was predicted to exceed that of the HSbF6 acid (the strongest liquid superacid recognized). The deprotonation energies of the HAlnF3n+1 acids (n = 1-4) turned out to be closely related to the electronic stabilities of their corresponding (AlnF3n+1)- anions.
INHIBITION OF ERN1 SIGNALING ENZYME AFFECTS HYPOXIC REGULATION OF THE EXPRESSION OF E2F8, EPAS1, HOXC6, ATF3, TBX3 AND FOXF1 GENES IN U87 GLIOMA CELLS.

PubMed

Minchenko, O H; Tsymbal, D O; Minchenko, D O; Kovalevska, O V; Karbovskyi, L L; Bikfalvi, A

2015-01-01

Hypoxia as well as the endoplasmic reticulum stress are important factors of malignant tumor growth and control of the expression of genes, which regulate numerous metabolic processes and cell proliferation. Furthermore, blockade of ERN1 (endoplasmic reticulum to nucleus 1) suppresses cell proliferation and tumor growth. We studied the effect of hypoxia on the expression of genes encoding the transcription factors such as E2F8 (E2F transcription factor 8), EPAS1 (endothelial PAS domain protein 1), TBX3 (T-box 3), ATF3 (activating transcription factor 3), FOXF1 (forkhead box F), and HOXC6 (homeobox C6) in U87 glioma cells with and without ERN1 signaling enzyme function. We have established that hypoxia enhances the expression of HOXC6, E2F8, ATF3, and EPAS1 genes but does not change TBX3 and FOXF1 gene expression in glioma cells with ERNI function. At the same time, the expression level of all studied genes is strongly decreased, except for TBX3 gene, in glioma cells without ERN1 function. Moreover, the inhibition of ERN1 signaling enzyme function significantly modifies the effect of hypoxia on the expression of these transcription factor genes. removes or introduces this regulation as well as changes a direction or magnitude of hypoxic regulation. Present study demonstrates that fine-tuning of the expression of proliferation related genes depends upon hypoxia and ERN1-mediated endoplasmic reticulum stress signaling and correlates with slower proliferation rate of glioma cells without ERN1 function.
Longitudinal Associations between Externalizing Problems and Student-Teacher Relationship Quality for Young Children with ASD

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Eisenhower, Abbey S.; Blacher, Jan; Bush Hurst, Hillary

2015-01-01

The associations between student-teacher relationship (STR) quality and externalizing behavior problems in school were examined among 166 children with ASD (82% boys, ages 4-7 years) across three assessments over a 1.5-year period; IQs in the sample range from 50 to 139 (M = 88.7). Unlike other non-ASD populations, the association between STR…
Peripheral photon and neutron doses from prostate cancer external beam irradiation.

PubMed

Bezak, Eva; Takam, Rundgham; Marcu, Loredana G

2015-12-01

Peripheral photon and neutron doses from external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) are associated with increased risk of carcinogenesis in the out-of-field organs; thus, dose estimations of secondary radiation are imperative. Peripheral photon and neutron doses from EBRT of prostate carcinoma were measured in Rando phantom. (6)LiF:Mg,Cu,P and (7)LiF:Mg,Cu,P glass-rod thermoluminescence dosemeters (TLDs) were inserted in slices of a Rando phantom followed by exposure to 80 Gy with 18-MV photon four-field 3D-CRT technique. The TLDs were calibrated using 6- and 18-MV X-ray beam. Neutron dose equivalents measured with CR-39 etch-track detectors were used to derive readout-to-neutron dose conversion factor for (6)LiF:Mg,Cu,P TLDs. Average neutron dose equivalents per 1 Gy of isocentre dose were 3.8±0.9 mSv Gy(-1) for thyroid and 7.0±5.4 mSv Gy(-1) for colon. For photons, the average dose equivalents per 1 Gy of isocentre dose were 0.2±0.1 mSv Gy(-1) for thyroid and 8.1±9.7 mSv Gy(-1) for colon. Paired (6)LiF:Mg,Cu,P and (7)LiF:Mg,Cu,P TLDs can be used to measure photon and neutron doses simultaneously. Organs in close proximity to target received larger doses from photons than those from neutrons whereas distally located organs received higher neutron versus photon dose. © The Author 2015. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.
Comparison of Four PD-L1 Immunohistochemical Assays in Lung Cancer.

PubMed

Hendry, Shona; Byrne, David J; Wright, Gavin M; Young, Richard J; Sturrock, Sue; Cooper, Wendy A; Fox, Stephen B

2018-03-01

Four different programmed death ligand 1 immunohistochemical assays are approved or in development as companion or complementary diagnostics to different immunotherapeutic agents in lung carcinoma. We sought to determine whether these assays are technically equivalent and whether one antibody can be used on an alternate staining platform. Serial sections of tissue microarrays constructed from 368 cases of resected lung cancer were stained for 22C3 and 28-8 on the Dako Link 48 platform (Dako, Carpinteria, Ca) and for SP142 and SP263 on the Ventana Benchmark Ultra platform (Ventana Medical Systems, Tucson, AZ) strictly as per product insert. A protocol was developed to use the 22C3 antibody on the Ventana Benchmark Ultra platform. Differences in mean tumor cell and immune cell staining were observed between the four assays (p < 0.001). Differences between 22C3 and 28-8 were not statistically significant. Concordance of tumor cell scores was good (intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC] = 0.674), particularly when SP142 was excluded as an outlier (ICC = 0.755). The highest concordance was seen between 22C3 and 28-8 (ICC = 0.812). Concordance was poor for immune cell staining (ICC = 0.212). When dichotomized according to clinically relevant cutoffs, pairwise comparisons showed poor to moderate concordance (κ = 0.196-0.578), with positive percent agreement ranging from 15.1% to 90.0%. The 22C3 antibody performed comparably on the Dako Link 48 platform and the alternate Ventana Benchmark Ultra platform (ICC = 0.921, κ = 0.897). Concordance between the four programmed death ligand 1 immunohistochemical assays when performed and scored as intended show that apart from 28-8 and 22C3, they cannot be used interchangeably in clinical practice. A protocol was successfully developed to use 22C3 on an alternate platform, which may help to overcome some barriers to implementation. Copyright © 2017 International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer. All rights
External Quality Assessments for Microbiologic Diagnosis of Diphtheria in Europe

PubMed Central

Both, Leonard; Neal, Shona; De Zoysa, Aruni; Mann, Ginder; Czumbel, Ida

2014-01-01

The European Diphtheria Surveillance Network (EDSN) ensures the reliable epidemiological and microbiologic assessment of disease prevalence in the European Union. Here, we describe a survey of current diagnostic techniques for diphtheria surveillance conducted across the European Union and report the results from three external quality assessment (EQA) schemes performed between 2010 and 2014. PMID:25297336
Time‐course of effects of external beam radiation on [18F]FDG uptake in healthy tissue and bone marrow

PubMed Central

Kesner, Adam L; Lau, Victoria K; Speiser, Michael; Hsueh, Wei‐Ann; Agazaryan, Nzhde; DeMarco, John J; Czernin, Johannes

2008-01-01

The utility of PET for monitoring responses to radiation therapy have been complicated by metabolically active processes in surrounding normal tissues. We examined the time‐course of [18F]FDG uptake in normal tissues using small animal‐dedicated PET during the 2 month period following external beam radiation. Four mice received 12 Gy of external beam radiation, in a single fraction to the left half of the body. Small animal [18F]FDG‐PET scans were acquired for each mouse at 0 (pre‐radiation), 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 12, 19, 24, and 38 days following irradiation. [18F]FDG activity in various tissues was compared between irradiated and non‐irradiated body halves before, and at each time point after irradiation. Radiation had a significant impact on [18F]FDG uptake in previously healthy tissues, and time‐course of effects differed in different types of tissues. For example, liver tissue demonstrated increased uptake, particularly over days 3–12, with the mean left to right uptake ratio increasing 52% over mean baseline values (p<0.0001). In contrast, femoral bone marrow uptake demonstrated decreased uptake, particularly over days 2–8, with the mean left to right uptake ratio decreasing 26% below mean baseline values (p=0.0005). Significant effects were also seen in lung and brain tissue. Radiation had diverse effects on [18F]FDG uptake in previously healthy tissues. These kinds of data may help lay groundwork for a systematically acquired database of the time‐course of effects of radiation on healthy tissues, useful for animal models of cancer therapy imminently, as well as interspecies extrapolations pertinent to clinical application eventually. PACs Number: 87.50.‐a
[THE VIRTUAL CYTOLOGIC SLIDES FOR EXTERNAL EVALUATION OF QUALITY OF IMPLEMENTATION OF CYTOLOGIC ANALYSES IN CLINICAL DIAGNOSTIC LABORATORIES: POSSIBILITIES AND PERSPECTIVES].

PubMed

Djangirova, T V; Shabalova, I P; Pronichev, A N; Polyakov, E V

2015-08-01

The article considers application of technology of analysis of cytological slides in external quality control of clinical diagnostic laboratories. The advantages of virtual slides are demonstrated against other applied technologies of external evaluation of quality i.e. slide plate and digital micro-photography. The conditions of formation of virtual slides for external evaluation of quality of clinical diagnostic laboratories. The technology of their application is described. The success of practical application of considered technology in the Federal system of external evaluation of quality is emphasized.
Haemangiopericytoma: histological spectrum, immunohistochemical characterization and prognosis.

PubMed

Mazzei, Maurizio; Millanta, Francesca; Citi, Simona; Lorenzi, Davide; Poli, Alessandro

2002-02-01

Canine haemangiopericytoma (CHP) is a vascular neoplasm thought to be derived from pericytes. The histological pattern and immunohistochemical profile were studied in 31 CHPs. Twenty-three subjects were followed for 2 years to evaluate the correlation among tumour location, histotype, immunostaining and outcome of the disease. Of the 31 CHPs examined, 20 exhibited a perivascular whorled pattern, 8 were storiform and 3 were epithelioid. All tumours were positive for vimentin and negative for cytokeratin, factor VIII-related antigen, glial fibrillary acidic protein and S-100 protein. Seventeen CHPs were positive for actin and nine co-expressed desmin. Six CHPs were also positive for CD34 antigen. The panel of immunohistochemical markers used confirmed the vascular lineage of CHP and aided in the exclusion of other mesenchymal tumours. Of the 23 dogs submitted to follow-up, 6 had recurrence or metastases of the primary tumour. The epithelioid pattern or a noncutaneous location were associated with a poorer prognosis.

VizieR Online Data Catalog: C/2012 F6 (Lemmon) and C/2012 S1 (ISON) maps (Cordiner+, 2014)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cordiner, M. A.; Remijan, A. J.; Boissier, J.; Milam, S. N.; Mumma, M. J.; Charnley, S. B.; Paganini, L.; Villanueva, G.; Bockelee-Morvan, D.; Kuan, Y.-J.; Chuang, Y.-L.; Lis, D. C.; Biver, N.; Crovisier, J.; Minniti, D.; Coulson, I. M.

2017-04-01

WCS-calibrated fits image files of the molecular flux maps shown in Figure 1 for HCN, HNC and H2CO observed in comets C/2012 F6 (Lemmon) and C/2012 S1 (ISON) using ALMA. The files are labeled with the corresponding comet and molecule names. The files are standard two-dimensional fits images, which can be opened in fits image viewers such as SAOimage DS9, CASA viewer, or Starlink Gaia. GIMP and Adobe Photoshop can also be used, provided the appropriate plugins are present. The images contain flux values (in units of Jansky km/s per beam), as a function of celestial coordinate in the J2000 equatorial system. Due to the cometary motions, the absolute coordinate systems are accurate only at the start of the observations (dates and times are given in Table 1). These images are the result of integrating the (3D) ALMA data cubes over the full widths of the observed spectral lines (equivalent to collapsing the data cubes along their respective spectral/velocity axes). The beam dimensions (BMAJ and BMIN), corresponding to the angular resolution of the images, are given in the image headers in units of degrees. object.dat : -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Code Name Elem q e i H1 d AU deg mag -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- C/2012 F6 Lemmon 2456375.5 0.7312461 0.9985125 82.607966 7.96 C/2012 S1 Ison 2456624.5 0.0124515 0.9998921 64.401571 6.11 (2 data files).
Using institutional theory to analyse hospital responses to external demands for finance and quality in five European countries

PubMed Central

Mendel, Peter; Nunes, Francisco; Wiig, Siri; van den Bovenkamp, Hester; Karltun, Anette; Robert, Glenn; Anderson, Janet; Vincent, Charles; Fulop, Naomi

2015-01-01

Objectives Given the impact of the global economic crisis, delivering better health care with limited finance grows more challenging. Through the lens of institutional theory, this paper explores pressures experienced by hospital leaders to improve quality and constrain spending, focusing on how they respond to these often competing demands. Methods An in-depth, multilevel analysis of health care quality policies and practices in five European countries including longitudinal case studies in a purposive sample of ten hospitals. Results How hospitals responded to the financial and quality challenges was dependent upon three factors: the coherence of demands from external institutions; managerial competence to align external demands with an overall quality improvement strategy, and managerial stability. Hospital leaders used diverse strategies and practices to manage conflicting external pressures. Conclusions The development of hospital leaders’ skills in translating external requirements into implementation plans with internal support is a complex, but crucial, task, if quality is to remain a priority during times of austerity. Increasing quality improvement skills within a hospital, developing a culture where quality improvement becomes embedded and linking cost reduction measures to improving care are all required. PMID:26683885
Using institutional theory to analyse hospital responses to external demands for finance and quality in five European countries.

PubMed

Burnett, Susan; Mendel, Peter; Nunes, Francisco; Wiig, Siri; van den Bovenkamp, Hester; Karltun, Anette; Robert, Glenn; Anderson, Janet; Vincent, Charles; Fulop, Naomi

2016-04-01

Given the impact of the global economic crisis, delivering better health care with limited finance grows more challenging. Through the lens of institutional theory, this paper explores pressures experienced by hospital leaders to improve quality and constrain spending, focusing on how they respond to these often competing demands. An in-depth, multilevel analysis of health care quality policies and practices in five European countries including longitudinal case studies in a purposive sample of ten hospitals. How hospitals responded to the financial and quality challenges was dependent upon three factors: the coherence of demands from external institutions; managerial competence to align external demands with an overall quality improvement strategy, and managerial stability. Hospital leaders used diverse strategies and practices to manage conflicting external pressures. The development of hospital leaders' skills in translating external requirements into implementation plans with internal support is a complex, but crucial, task, if quality is to remain a priority during times of austerity. Increasing quality improvement skills within a hospital, developing a culture where quality improvement becomes embedded and linking cost reduction measures to improving care are all required. © The Author(s) 2015.
Development of f2/f1 ratio functions in humans

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vento, Barbara A.; Durrant, John D.; Sabo, Diane L.; Boston, J. Robert

2004-05-01

Otoacoustic emissions (OAEs) presumably represent active processes within the cochlea fundamental to frequency-selectivity in peripheral auditory function. Maturation of the cochlear amplifier, vis-a-vis frequency encoding or selectivity, has yet to be fully characterized in humans. The purpose of this study was to further investigate the maturation of features of the f2/f1 frequency ratio (Distortion Product OAE amplitude X f2/f1 ratio) presumed to reflect cochlear frequency selectivity. A cross-sectional, multivariate study was completed comparing three age groups: pre-term infants, term infants and young adult subjects. Frequency ratio functions were analyzed at three f2 frequencies-2000, 4000 and 6000 Hz. An analysis included an estimation of the optimal ratio (OR) and a bandwidth-like measure (Q3). Analysis revealed significant interactions of age x frequency x gender for optimal ratio and a significant interaction of age x frequency for Q3. Consistent and statistically significant differences for both OR and Q3 were found in female subjects and when f2=2 or 6 kHz. This supports research by others [Abdala, J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 114, 3239-3250 (2003)] suggesting that the development of cochlear active mechanisms may still be somewhat in flux at least through term birth Furthermore, OAEs appear to demonstrate gender differences in the course of such maturational changes.
Rapid immunohistochemical detection of tumor cells in gastric carcinoma.

PubMed

Mönig, Stefan P; Luebke, Thomas; Soheili, Afsoon; Landsberg, Stephanie; Dienes, H P; Hölscher, Arnulf H; Baldus, Stephan E

2006-11-01

The detection of single tumor cells or tumor cell clusters represents an important issue in intraoperative frozen section analysis. For example, surgical margins may be evaluated in order to minimize the number of additional operations. Furthermore, intraoperative diagnosis of lymph node micrometastasis (LNM) may help to define the area of appropriate lymph node dissection. In addition to haematoxylin and eosin (H&E)-stained sections, immunohistochemical detection of single tumor cells or cell clusters may be helpful in this context. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical significance, reliability and sensitivity of intraoperative rapid immunostaining of frozen sections. Therefore, we compared the results of rapid immunohistochemical staining of frozen sections and paraffin sections applying the EnVision and Histofine(R) detection systems. In a prospective immunohistochemical study, paraffin and frozen sections of 20 gastric cancer specimens were analyzed. Paraffin as well as frozen sections were stained immunohistochemically applying the EnVision and Histofine detection systems. As primary antibodies, AE1/AE3 (anti-cytokeratin), EMA (anti-MUC1) and B lymphocyte marker anti-CD20 were applied. The rapid immunostaining procedure was able to be completed within 10-13 min. Rapid immunohistochemical staining of frozen and paraffin sections of the same tumors resulted in comparable immunoreactivity. The rapid EnVision and Histofine procedures allowed immunostaining of frozen sections in less than 13 min. These methods can represent useful additional tools in routine surgical pathology and research, enabling a more accurate frozen section diagnosis compared to staining with H&E alone. Intraoperative rapid immunostaining can be a simple and useful technique to detect LNM.
Internal motion and its pressure dependence in FeSiF6+6/H2O/.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vaughan, R. W.; Nicolaides, G. L.; Elleman, D. D.

1972-01-01

Both wideline and pulsed NMR techniques were used to examine the internal motion in FeSiF6+6(H2O). Corrections of second moments for bulk paramagnetic effects were essential. At room temperature and pressure, the fluorine-fluorine contribution to the 19F second moment is 0.38 (plus or minus 0.06) G2, and indicates rapid orientation of the SiF6(--) group. Analysis of the second moment within the transition region allows calculation of an activation volume which is 2.4 (plus or minus 0.4) % of the molar volume. The application of pressure slows the internal motion such that the rigid lattice values of the 19F second moment are obtained above 50 kbar.
Enhanced hydrogen storage properties of MgH2 co-catalyzed with K2NiF6 and CNTs.

PubMed

Sulaiman, N N; Ismail, M

2016-12-06

The composite of MgH 2 /K 2 NiF 6 /carbon nanotubes (CNTs) is prepared by ball milling, and its hydrogenation properties are studied for the first time. MgH 2 co-catalyzed with K 2 NiF 6 and CNTs exhibited an improvement in the onset dehydrogenation temperature and isothermal de/rehydrogenation kinetics compared with the MgH 2 -K 2 NiF 6 composite. The onset dehydrogenation temperature of MgH 2 doped with 10 wt% K 2 NiF 6 and 5 wt% CNTs is 245 °C, which demonstrated a reduction of 25 °C compared with the MgH 2 + 10 wt% K 2 NiF 6 composite. In terms of rehydrogenation kinetics, MgH 2 doped with 10 wt% K 2 NiF 6 and 5 wt% CNTs samples absorbed 3.4 wt% of hydrogen in 1 min at 320 °C, whereas the MgH 2 + 10 wt% K 2 NiF 6 sample absorbed 2.6 wt% of hydrogen under the same conditions. For dehydrogenation kinetics at 320 °C, the MgH 2 + 10 wt% K 2 NiF 6 + 5 wt% CNTs sample released 3.3 wt% hydrogen after 5 min of dehydrogenation. By contrast, MgH 2 doped with 10 wt% K 2 NiF 6 released 3.0 wt% hydrogen in the same time period. The apparent activation energy, E a , for the dehydrogenation of MgH 2 doped with 10 wt% K 2 NiF 6 reduced from 100.0 kJ mol -1 to 70.0 kJ mol -1 after MgH 2 was co-doped with 10 wt% K 2 NiF 6 and 5 wt% CNTs. Based on the experimental results, the hydrogen storage properties of the MgH 2 /K 2 NiF 6 /CNTs composite is enhanced because of the catalytic effects of the active species of KF, KH and Mg 2 Ni that are formed in situ during dehydrogenation, as well as the unique structure of CNTs.
[Quality management in intensive care medicine].

PubMed

Martin, J; Braun, J-P

2014-02-01

Treatment of critical ill patients in the intensive care unit is tantamount to well-designed risk or quality management. Several tools of quality management and quality assurance have been developed in intensive care medicine. In addition to external quality assurance by benchmarking with regard to the intensive care medicine, peer review procedures have been established for external quality assurance in recent years. In the process of peer review of an intensive care unit (ICU), external physicians and nurses visit the ICU, evaluate on-site proceedings, and discuss with the managing team of the ICU possibilities for optimization. Furthermore, internal quality management in the ICU is possible based on the 10 quality indicators of the German Interdisciplinary Society for Intensive Care Medicine (DIVI, "Deutschen Interdisziplinären Vereinigung für Intensiv- und Notfallmedizin"). Thereby every ICU has numerous possibilities to improve their quality management system.
[Quality management in intensive care medicine].

PubMed

Martin, J; Braun, J-P

2013-09-01

Treatment of critical ill patients in the intensive care unit is tantamount to well-designed risk or quality management. Several tools of quality management and quality assurance have been developed in intensive care medicine. In addition to extern quality assurance by benchmarking with regard to the intensive care medicine, peer review procedures have been established for external quality assurance in recent years. In the process of peer review of an intensive care unit (ICU), external physicians and nurses visit the ICU, evaluate on-site proceedings, and discuss with the managing team of the ICU possibilities for optimization. Furthermore, internal quality management in the ICU is possible based on the 10 quality indicators of the German Interdisciplinary Society for Intensive Care Medicine (DIVI, "Deutschen Interdisziplinären Vereinigung für Intensiv- und Notfallmedizin"). Thereby every ICU has numerous possibilities to improve their quality management system.
In situ detection of GM1 and GM2 gangliosides using immunohistochemical and immunofluorescent techniques for auxiliary diagnosis of canine and feline gangliosidoses.

PubMed

Kohyama, Moeko; Yabuki, Akira; Ochiai, Kenji; Nakamoto, Yuya; Uchida, Kazuyuki; Hasegawa, Daisuke; Takahashi, Kimimasa; Kawaguchi, Hiroaki; Tsuboi, Masaya; Yamato, Osamu

2016-03-31

GM1 and GM2 gangliosidoses are progressive neurodegenerative lysosomal storage diseases resulting from the excessive accumulation of GM1 and GM2 gangliosides in the lysosomes, respectively. The diagnosis of gangliosidosis is carried out based on comprehensive findings using various types of specimens for histological, ultrastructural, biochemical and genetic analyses. Therefore, the partial absence or lack of specimens might have resulted in many undiagnosed cases. The aim of the present study was to establish immunohistochemical and immunofluorescent techniques for the auxiliary diagnosis of canine and feline gangliosidoses, using paraffin-embedded brain specimens stored for a long period. Using hematoxylin and eosin staining, cytoplasmic accumulation of pale to eosinophilic granular materials in swollen neurons was observed in animals previously diagnosed with GM1 or GM2 gangliosidosis. The immunohistochemical and immunofluorescent techniques developed in this study clearly demonstrated the accumulated material to be either GM1 or GM2 ganglioside. Immunohistochemical and immunofluorescent techniques using stored paraffin-embedded brain specimens are useful for the retrospective diagnosis of GM1 and GM2 gangliosidoses in dogs and cats.
External quality assessment unravels interlaboratory differences in quality of RAS testing for anti-EGFR therapy in colorectal cancer.

PubMed

Tack, Véronique; Ligtenberg, Marjolijn J L; Tembuyser, Lien; Normanno, Nicola; Vander Borght, Sara; Han van Krieken, J; Dequeker, Elisabeth M C

2015-03-01

Regulations for the selection of patients with metastatic colorectal cancer for anti-EGFR treatment changed at the end of 2013. The set of mutations to be tested extended from KRAS codons 12 and 13 to KRAS and NRAS exons 2, 3, and 4. A European external quality assessment scheme monitored the performance of laboratories and evaluated the implementation of the new regulations. The 131 participating laboratories received 10 samples of formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded material, including RAS (exon 2, 3, 4) and BRAF mutations. Mock clinical data were provided for three cases. Using their routine methods, laboratories determined the genotypes and submitted three written reports. Assessors scored the results according to predefined evaluation criteria. Half of the participants (49.3%) had completely implemented the new test requirements (codons 12, 13, 59, 61, 117, and 146 of KRAS and NRAS), and 96 laboratories (73.3%) made no genotype mistakes. Correct nomenclature, according to the Human Genome Variation Society, was used by 82 laboratories (62.6%). Although regulations were effective for several months, many laboratories were not ready for full RAS testing in the context of anti-EGFR therapy. Nevertheless, in each participating country, there are laboratories that provide complete and correct testing. External quality assessments can be used to monitor implementation of new test regulations and to stimulate the laboratories to improve their testing procedures. Because the results of this program are available on the website of the European Society of Pathology, patients and clinicians can refer test samples to a reliable laboratory. ©AlphaMed Press.
The WHO AFRO external quality assessment programme (EQAP): Linking laboratory networks through EQA programmes.

PubMed

Boeras, Debrah I; Peeling, Rosanna W; Onyebujoh, Philip; Yahaya, Ali A; Gumede-Moeletsi, Hieronyma N; Ndihokubwayo, Jean B

2016-01-01

External Quality Assessment (EQA) surveys performed by the World Health Organization Regional Office for Africa (WHO AFRO) revealed the need for the strengthening of public health microbiology laboratories, particularly for testing of epidemic-prone diseases in the African Region. These surveys revealed common issues such as supply chain management, skilled personnel, logistical support and overall lack of quality standards. For sustainable improvements to health systems as well as global health security, deficiencies identified need to be actively corrected through robust quality assurance programmes and implementation of laboratory quality management systems. Given all the pathogens of public health importance, an external quality assessment programme with a focus on vaccine-preventable diseases and emerging and re-emerging dangerous pathogens is important, and should not be stand-alone, but integrated within laboratory networks as seen in polio, measles, yellow fever and rubella. In 2015, WHO AFRO collaborated with the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine and partners in a series of consultations with countries and national and regional EQA providers for the development of quality assurance models to support HIV point-of-care testing and monitoring. These consultations revealed similar challenges as seen in the WHO AFRO surveys. WHO AFRO brought forth its experience in implementing quality standards for health programmes, and also opened discussions on how lessons learned through such established programmes can be utilised to supporting and strengthening the introduction of early infant diagnosis of HIV and viral load point-of-care testing. An optimised external quality assessment programme will impact the ability of countries to meet core capacities, providing improved quality management systems, improving the confidence of diagnostic network services in Africa, and including capacities to detect events
The WHO AFRO external quality assessment programme (EQAP): Linking laboratory networks through EQA programmes

PubMed Central

Yahaya, Ali A.; Gumede-Moeletsi, Hieronyma N.

2016-01-01

External Quality Assessment (EQA) surveys performed by the World Health Organization Regional Office for Africa (WHO AFRO) revealed the need for the strengthening of public health microbiology laboratories, particularly for testing of epidemic-prone diseases in the African Region. These surveys revealed common issues such as supply chain management, skilled personnel, logistical support and overall lack of quality standards. For sustainable improvements to health systems as well as global health security, deficiencies identified need to be actively corrected through robust quality assurance programmes and implementation of laboratory quality management systems. Given all the pathogens of public health importance, an external quality assessment programme with a focus on vaccine-preventable diseases and emerging and re-emerging dangerous pathogens is important, and should not be stand-alone, but integrated within laboratory networks as seen in polio, measles, yellow fever and rubella. In 2015, WHO AFRO collaborated with the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine and partners in a series of consultations with countries and national and regional EQA providers for the development of quality assurance models to support HIV point-of-care testing and monitoring. These consultations revealed similar challenges as seen in the WHO AFRO surveys. WHO AFRO brought forth its experience in implementing quality standards for health programmes, and also opened discussions on how lessons learned through such established programmes can be utilised to supporting and strengthening the introduction of early infant diagnosis of HIV and viral load point-of-care testing. An optimised external quality assessment programme will impact the ability of countries to meet core capacities, providing improved quality management systems, improving the confidence of diagnostic network services in Africa, and including capacities to detect events
[Analysis of the results of the SEIMC External Quality Control Program. Year 2012].

PubMed

de Gopegui Bordes, Enrique Ruiz; Guna Serrano, M del Remedio; Orta Mira, Nieves; Ovies, María Rosario; Poveda, Marta; Gimeno Cardona, Concepción

2014-02-01

The External Quality Control Program of the Spanish Society of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology (SEIMC) include controls for bacteriology, serology, mycology, parasitology, mycobacteria, virology and molecular microbiology. This article presents the most relevant conclusions and lessons from the 2012 controls. As a whole, the results obtained in 2012 confirm the excellent skill and good technical standards found in previous editions. However, erroneous results can be obtained in any laboratory and in clinically relevant determinations. Once again, the results of this program highlighted the need to implement both internal and external controls in order to assure the maximal quality of the microbiological tests. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier España, S.L. All rights reserved.
[Analysis of the results of the SEIMC External Quality Control Program. Year 2014].

PubMed

Gopegui Bordes, Enrique Ruiz de; Guna Serrano, M Del Remedio; Orta Mira, Nieves; Medina González, Rafael; Rosario Ovies, María; Poveda, Marta; Gimeno Cardona, Concepción

2016-07-01

The External Quality Control Program of the Spanish Society of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology (SEIMC) include controls for bacteriology, serology, mycology, parasitology, mycobacteria, virology and molecular microbiology. This article presents the most relevant conclusions and lessons from the 2014 controls. As a whole, the results obtained in 2014 confirm the excellent skill and good technical standards found in previous editions. However, erroneous results can be obtained in any laboratory and in clinically relevant determinations. Once again, the results of the SEIMC program highlighted the need to implement both internal and external controls in order to assure the maximal quality of the microbiological tests. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.
NTP Toxicology and Carcinogenesis Studies of Dimethyl Methylphosphonate (CAS No. 756-79-6) in F344/N Rats and B6C3F1 Mice (Gavage Studies).

PubMed

1987-11-01

Dimethyl methylphosphonate (98% pure) is one of four chemicals nominated by the U.S. Army for toxicology and carcinogenesis studies because it was being considered for use to simulate the physical and spectroscopic (but not the biologic) properties of anticholinesterase (nerve) agents. Dimethyl methylphosphonate is also used as a flame retardant, a preignition additive for gasoline, an antifoam agent, a plasticizer and stabilizer, a textile conditioner and antistatic agent, and an additive for solvents and low-temperature hydraulic fluids. The United States produces 0.2-2 million pounds (91,000-910,000 kg) of per year. Gavage was chosen as the route of administration for all four candidate "simulants" to mimic potential exposure. Experimental Design: Dimethyl methylphosphonate was administered in corn oil by gavage to male and female F344/N rats and B6C3F1 mice in single-administration, 15-day, and 13-week studies to obtain toxicity data, to establish dose levels for the 2-year studies, and to identify target tissues. Additional studies were also performed to determine toxicity to the reproductive system of male F344/N rats and B6C3F1 mice and to study the potential for genetic damage in bacteria, mammalian cells, and Drosophila. Single-Administration Studies: In the single-administration studies, dimethyl methylphosphonate was given to rats and mice at doses up to 6,810 mg/kg body weight. No compound-related deaths were seen in male or female rats or male mice; two high dose female mice died. Rats exhibited inactivity, unsteady gait, and prostration after dosing; mice were inactive after dosing. Fifteen-Day Studies: Rats and mice received doses of 0, 1,250, 2,500, 5,000, 10,000, or 15,000 mg/kg dimethyl methylphosphonate per day. Compound-related deaths occurred in the three highest dose groups of rats and the two highest dose groups of mice. Rats receiving doses of 2,500 mg/kg or higher were inactive and at 5,000 or 10,000 mg/kg had an unsteady gait after dosing
Signet-ring cell lymphoma: clinicopathologic, immunohistochemical, and fluorescence in situ hybridization studies of 7 cases.

PubMed

Zhang, Shanxiang; Sun, Jihong; Fang, Yanan; Nassiri, Mehdi; Liu, Lanting; Zhou, Jiehao; Stohler, Ryan; Choi, Haki; Vance, Gail H

2017-02-01

Signet-ring cell lymphoma (SRCL) is a rare morphologic variant of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Although it was initially reported as a rare morphologic variant of follicular lymphoma (FL), SRCL has to date been described in most types of non-Hodgkin lymphoma, mostly as single-case reports. To study SRCL systematically by immunohistochemical stains and fluorescent in situ hybridization analyses. Seven SRCL cases were stained for CD3, CD5, CD20, PAX-5, CD10, CD21, CD23, cyclin D1, BCL2, BCL6, Ki-67, and MUM-1, and were analyzed by fluorescent in situ hybridization for BCL2, BCL6, MYC, and MALT1 rearrangements. Clinical information and patient outcome were reviewed in all patients. The patients were 3 women and 3 men, ranging in age from 31 to 75 years (average 60.3 years). The lesions involved lymph nodes, tonsil, parotid gland, soft tissue, and breast. There were 4 FLs, 1 diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), 1 DLBCL with FL, and 1 DLBCL with marginal zone lymphoma. All cases had typical signet-ring cell morphology. They were positive for CD20 and BCL-2, and had low-to-intermediate Ki-67 proliferation index (10%-40%) except in the parotid DLBCL with FL (70%). BCL-6 was detected in all but 1 FL (6/7). Fluorescent in situ hybridization detected IGH/BCL2 translocation in 1 FL, increased BCL6 copy number in another FL, BCL6 rearrangement, and increased copy number of MYC and MALT1 in the DLBCL with marginal zone lymphoma. The FL with signet-ring cell morphology (1/5) tends to lack IGH/BCL2 translocation, and an extended immunohistochemical study is recommended for correct diagnosis and classification of SRCL. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Performance of interspecific F1 eucalypt hybrids in Zimbabwe

Treesearch

D. P. Gwaze; Floyd E. Bridgwater; W. J. Lowe

2000-01-01

Survival, growth 2nd stem straightness were assessed at 7 years of age for F1 hybrids of E. grandis with E. saligna, E. pellita and E. urophylla established at a high rainfall area, and the same traits were assessed at 6 years for F1 hybrids of
Immunohistochemical expression of interleukin-2 receptor and interleukin-6 in patients with prostate cancer and benign prostatic hyperplasia: association with asymptomatic inflammatory prostatitis NIH category IV.

PubMed

Engelhardt, Paul Friedrich; Seklehner, Stephan; Brustmann, Hermann; Lusuardi, Lukas; Riedl, Claus R

2015-04-01

This study prospectively investigated the immunohistochemical expression of interleukin-2 receptor (IL-2R) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in patients with prostate cancer and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), and a possible association of these conditions with asymptomatic inflammatory prostatitis National Institutes of Health (NIH) category IV. The study included 139 consecutive patients who underwent transurethral resection of the prostate and transvesical enucleation of the prostate (n = 82) or radical prostatectomy (n = 57). To characterize inflammatory changes the criteria proposed by Irani et al. [J Urol 1997;157:1301-3] were used. IL-2R and IL-6 expression was studied by a standard immunohistochemical method. Results were correlated with tumour, node, metastasis stage, Gleason scores, total prostate-specific antigen, International Prostate Symptom Score and body mass index. IL-2R and IL-6 expression was significantly higher in neoplastic prostate cancer tissue than in normal tissue of prostate cancer patients (p < 0.001 and p < 0.04, respectively). Prostate cancer patients with prostatitis showed significantly higher IL-2R expression than those without inflammation (p < 0.03). In patients with BPH, expression of IL-2R as well as IL-6 was higher in patients with prostatitis than in those without (p < 0.01 and p < 0.02, respectively). IL-2R and IL-6 expression was significantly higher in prostate cancer tissue than in normal tissue. Patients with asymptomatic inflammatory prostatitis NIH category IV showed significantly greater activity.
Synthesis of N-formyl-3,4-di-t-butoxycarbonyloxy-6(trimethylstannyl)-L-phenylalanine ethyl ester and its regioselective radiofluorodestannylation to 6-[{sup 18}F]fluoro-L-dopa

DOEpatents

Satyamurthy, N.; Barrio, J.R.; Bishop, A.J.; Namavari, M.

1995-02-28

A protected 6-trimethylstannyl dopa derivative has been synthesized for the as a precursor for the preparation of 6-[{sup 18}F]fluoro-L-dopa. The tin derivative readily reacts with electrophilic radiofluorinating agents such as [{sup 18}F]F{sub 2}, [{sup 18}F]OF{sub 2} and [{sup 18}F]AcOF. The [{sup 18}F]fluoro intermediate was easily hydrolyzed with HBr and the product 6-[{sup 18}F]fluoro-L-dopa was isolated after HPLC purification in a maximum radiochemical yield of 23%, ready for human use. 1 fig.

Synthesis of N-formyl-3,4-di-t-butoxycarbonyloxy-6(trimethylstannyl)-L-phenylalanine ethyl ester and its regioselective radiofluorodestannylation to 6-[{sup 18}F]fluoro-L-dopa

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

Satyamurthy, N.; Barrio, J.R.; Bishop, A.J.

A protected 6-trimethylstannyl dopa derivative has been synthesized for the as a precursor for the preparation of 6-[{sup 18}F]fluoro-L-dopa. The tin derivative readily reacts with electrophilic radiofluorinating agents such as [{sup 18}F]F{sub 2}, [{sup 18}F]OF{sub 2} and [{sup 18}F]AcOF. The [{sup 18}F]fluoro intermediate was easily hydrolyzed with HBr and the product 6-[{sup 18}F]fluoro-L-dopa was isolated after HPLC purification in a maximum radiochemical yield of 23%, ready for human use. 1 fig.
Internal quality control indicators of cervical cytopathology exams performed in laboratories monitored by the External Quality Control Laboratory.

PubMed

Ázara, Cinara Zago Silveira; Manrique, Edna Joana Cláudio; Tavares, Suelene Brito do Nascimento; de Souza, Nadja Lindany Alves; Amaral, Rita Goreti

2014-09-01

To evaluate the impact of continued education provided by an external quality control laboratory on the indicators of internal quality control of cytopathology exams. The internal quality assurance indicators for cytopathology exams from 12 laboratories monitored by the External Quality Control Laboratory were evaluated. Overall, 185,194 exams were included, 98,133 of which referred to the period preceding implementation of a continued education program, while 87,061 referred to the period following this intervention. Data were obtained from the Cervical Cancer Database of the Brazilian National Health Service. Following implementation of the continued education program, the positivity index (PI) remained within recommended limits in four laboratories. In another four laboratories, the PI progressed from below the limits to within the recommended standards. In one laboratory, the PI remained low, in two laboratories, it remained very low, and in one, it increased from very low to low. The percentage of exams compatible with a high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL) remained within the recommended limits in five laboratories, while in three laboratories it progressed from below the recommended levels to >0.4% of the total number of satisfactory exams, and in four laboratories it remained below the standard limit. Both the percentage of atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance (ASC-US) in relation to abnormal exams, and the ratio between ASC-US and intraepithelial lesions remained within recommended levels in all the laboratories investigated. An improvement was found in the indicators represented by the positivity index and the percentage of exams compatible with a high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion, showing that the role played by the external quality control laboratory in providing continued education contributed towards improving laboratory staff skills in detecting cervical cancer precursor lesions.
Qualitative analysis of ionospheric disorders in Solok earthquake (March 6, 2007) viewed from anomalous critical frequency of layer F (f0F2) and genesis spread F

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pujiastuti, D.; Daniati, S.; Taufiqurrahman, E.; Mustafa, B.; Ednofri

2018-03-01

A qualitative analysis has been conducted by comparing the critical frequency anomalies of layer F (f0F2) and Spread F events to see the correlation with seismic activity before the Solok earthquake (March 6, 2007) in West Sumatra. The ionospherics data used was taken using the FMCW ionosonde at LAPAN SPD Kototabang, Palupuah, West Sumatra. The process of ionogramme scaling is done first to get the daily value of f0F2. The value of f0F2 is then compared with its monthly median to see the daily variations that appear. Anomalies of f0F2 and Spread F events were observed from February 20, 2007 to March 6, 2007. The presence of f0F2 anomalies was the negative deviation and the presence of Spread F before earthquake events were recommended as Solok earthquake precursors as they occurred when geomagneticsics and solar activities were normal.
First External Evaluations of Quality Assurance Agencies--Lessons Learned. ENQA Workshop Report 10

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Costes, Nathalie; Curvale, Bruno; Kraft, Michael G.; Llavori, Rafael; Malan, Thierry; Szanto, Tibor

2010-01-01

This report is a product of an ENQA (European Association for Quality Assurance in Higher Education) seminar on the first external evaluations of quality assurance agencies, held in Paris in July 2008. The seminar took stock of the achieved reviews of agencies to learn lessons from these first outcomes and, hence, provided a platform for…
Disposition of [14C]N,N-dimethyl-p-toluidine in F344 rats and B6C3F1 mice.

PubMed

Dix, Kelly J; Ghanbari, Katayoon; Hedtke-Weber, Briana M

2007-05-15

N,N-Dimethyl-p-toluidine (DMPT) is used as a polymerization accelerator, in industrial glues, and as an intermediate in dye and pesticide synthesis. There is potential for human exposure to DMPT. The disposition of oral and intravenous (i.v.) doses of [14C]DMPT in F344 rats and B6C3F1 mice was investigated. A single i.v. (2.5 mg/kg) or oral (2.5, 25, or 250 mg/kg) dose of [14C]DMPT (1-25 microCi) was administered in an aqueous vehicle to male rats and mice. The 25-mg/kg oral dose was administered to females to investigate possible gender differences in disposition. However, no striking gender differences were observed. Since toxicity studies conducted elsewhere used a corn oil vehicle, the 250-mg/kg oral dose also was administered in corn oil to male rats; disposition was not dependent on vehicle. Excreta (through 24 h) and tissues collected at sacrifice were analyzed for total radioactivity. Dose-dependent differences in toxicity and disposition were observed. Toxicity at the 250-mg/kg oral dose to male mice was consistent with acute renal failure. At the same dose, male rats exhibited clinical signs of toxicity through 12 h but were clinically normal by 24 h. At lower oral doses, [14C]DMPT-derived radioactivity was well absorbed and rapidly excreted, primarily in urine.
Convenient and Efficient Method for Quality Control Analysis of 18F-Fluorocholine: For a Small Scale GMP-based Radiopharmaceuticals Laboratory Set-up.

PubMed

Hassan, Hishar; Abu Bakar, Suharzelim; Halim, Khairul Najah Che A; Idris, Jaleezah; Nordin, Abdul Jalil

2016-01-01

Prostate cancer continues to be the most prevalent cancer in men in Malaysia. As time progresses, the prospect of PET imaging modality in diagnosis of prostate cancer is promising, with on-going improvement on novel tracers. Among all tracers, 18F-Fluorocholine is reported to be a reputable tracer and reliable diagnostic technique for prostate imaging. Nonetheless, only 18F-Fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) is available and used in most oncology cases in Malaysia. With a small scale GMP-based radiopharmaceuticals laboratory set-up, initial efforts have been taken to put Malaysia on 18F-Fluorocholine map. This article presents a convenient, efficient and reliable method for quality control analysis of 18F-Fluorocholine. Besides, the aim of this research work is to assist local GMP radiopharmaceuticals laboratories and local authority in Malaysia for quality control analysis of 18F-Fluorocholine guideline. In this study, prior to synthesis, quality control analysis method for 18F-Fluorocholine was developed and validated, by adapting the equipment set-up used in 18F-Fluorodeoxyglucose (18FFDG) routine production. Quality control on the 18F-Fluorocholine was performed by means of pH, radionuclidic identity, radio-high performance liquid chromatography equipped with ultraviolet, radio- thin layer chromatography, gas chromatography and filter integrity test. Post-synthesis; the pH of 18F-Fluorocholine was 6.42 ± 0.04, with half-life of 109.5 minutes (n = 12). The radiochemical purity was consistently higher than 99%, both in radio-high performance liquid chromatography equipped with ultraviolet (r-HPLC; SCX column, 0.25 M NaH2PO4: acetonitrile) and radio-thin layer chromatography method (r-TLC). The calculated relative retention time (RRT) in r-HPLC was 1.02, whereas the retention factor (Rf) in r-TLC was 0.64. Potential impurities from 18F-Fluorocholine synthesis such as ethanol, acetonitrile, dimethylethanolamine and dibromomethane were determined in gas chromatography
12 CFR 563f.1 - Authority, purpose, and scope.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... situations where the management interlock likely would have an anticompetitive effect. (c) Scope. This part... 12 Banks and Banking 6 2014-01-01 2012-01-01 true Authority, purpose, and scope. 563f.1 Section 563f.1 Banks and Banking OFFICE OF THRIFT SUPERVISION, DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY MANAGEMENT OFFICIAL...
Parenting and Friendship Quality as Predictors of Internalizing and Externalizing Symptoms in Early Adolescence

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gaertner, Alden E.; Fite, Paula J.; Colder, Craig R.

2010-01-01

Research indicates both parents and peers influence child and adolescent adjustment outcomes. Moreover, friendship quality has been found to buffer the influence of parenting on adolescent adjustment, particularly externalizing symptoms. Little to no research, however, has longitudinally examined whether friendship quality moderates the relation…
Age-specific absolute and relative organ weight distributions for B6C3F1 mice.

PubMed

Marino, Dale J

2012-01-01

The B6C3F1 mouse is the standard mouse strain used in toxicology studies conducted by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) and the National Toxicology Program (NTP). While numerous reports have been published on growth, survival, and tumor incidence, no overall compilation of organ weight data is available. Importantly, organ weight change is an endpoint used by regulatory agencies to develop toxicity reference values (TRVs) for use in human health risk assessments. Furthermore, physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) models, which utilize relative organ weights, are increasingly being used to develop TRVs. Therefore, all available absolute and relative organ weight data for untreated control B6C3F1 mice were collected from NCI/NTP studies in order to develop age-specific distributions. Results show that organ weights were collected more frequently in NCI/NTP studies at 2-wk (60 studies), 3-mo (147 studies), and 15-mo (40 studies) intervals than at other intervals, and more frequently from feeding and inhalation than drinking water studies. Liver, right kidney, lung, heart, thymus, and brain weights were most frequently collected. From the collected data, the mean and standard deviation for absolute and relative organ weights were calculated. Results show age-related increases in absolute liver, right kidney, lung, and heart weights and relatively stable brain and right testis weights. The results suggest a general variability trend in absolute organ weights of brain < right testis < right kidney < heart < liver < lung < spleen < thymus. This report describes the results of this effort.
Supplementary Investigation in the Free-Spinning Tunnel of a 1/24-Scale Model of the Grumman F9F-6 Airplane Incorporating only Flaperons for Lateral Control, TED No. NACA DE 364

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Klinar, Walter J.; Lee, Henry A.

1954-01-01

A supplementary investigation was conducted in the Langley 20-foot free-spinning tunnel on a 1/24-scale model of the Grumman F9F-6 airplane. The primary purpose of the investigation was to reevaluate the spin-recovery characteristics of the airplane in view of the fact that the ailerons had been eliminated from the flaperon-aileron lateral control system of the airplane. A spin-tunnel investigation on a model of the earlier version of the F9F-6 airplane had indicated that use of ailerons with the spin (stick right in a right spin) was essential to insure recovery. The results indicate that with.ailerons eliminated, it may be difficult to obtain an erect developed spin but if a fully developed spin is obtained on the airplane, recovery therefrom may be difficult or impossible. Flaperon deflection should have little effect on spins or recoveries.
Robust diagnosis of Ewing sarcoma by immunohistochemical detection of super-enhancer-driven EWSR1-ETS targets

PubMed Central

Marchetto, Aruna; Gerke, Julia S.; Rubio, Rebeca Alba; Kiran, Merve M.; Musa, Julian; Knott, Maximilian M. L.; Ohmura, Shunya; Li, Jing; Akpolat, Nusret; Akatli, Ayse N.; Özen, Özlem; Dirksen, Uta; Hartmann, Wolfgang; de Alava, Enrique; Baumhoer, Daniel; Sannino, Giuseppina; Kirchner, Thomas; Grünewald, Thomas G. P.

2018-01-01

Ewing sarcoma is an undifferentiated small-round-cell sarcoma. Although molecular detection of pathognomonic EWSR1-ETS fusions such as EWSR1-FLI1 enables definitive diagnosis, substantial confusion can arise if molecular diagnostics are unavailable. Diagnosis based on the conventional immunohistochemical marker CD99 is unreliable due to its abundant expression in morphological mimics. To identify novel diagnostic immunohistochemical markers for Ewing sarcoma, we performed comparative expression analyses in 768 tumors representing 21 entities including Ewing-like sarcomas, which confirmed that CIC-DUX4-, BCOR-CCNB3-, EWSR1-NFATc2-, and EWSR1-ETS-translocated sarcomas are distinct entities, and revealed that ATP1A1, BCL11B, and GLG1 constitute specific markers for Ewing sarcoma. Their high expression was validated by immunohistochemistry and proved to depend on EWSR1-FLI1-binding to highly active proximal super-enhancers. Automated cut-off-finding and combination-testing in a tissue-microarray comprising 174 samples demonstrated that detection of high BCL11B and/or GLG1 expression is sufficient to reach 96% specificity for Ewing sarcoma. While 88% of tested Ewing-like sarcomas displayed strong CD99-immunoreactivity, none displayed combined strong BCL11B- and GLG1-immunoreactivity. Collectively, we show that ATP1A1, BCL11B, and GLG1 are EWSR1-FLI1 targets, of which BCL11B and GLG1 offer a fast, simple, and cost-efficient way to diagnose Ewing sarcoma by immunohistochemistry. These markers may significantly reduce the number of misdiagnosed patients, and thus improve patient care. PMID:29416716
Immunohistochemical analysis of the novel marginal zone B-cell marker IRTA1 in malignant lymphoma.

PubMed

Ikeda, Jun-Ichiro; Kohara, Masaharu; Tsuruta, Yoko; Nojima, Satoshi; Tahara, Shinichiro; Ohshima, Kenji; Kurashige, Masako; Wada, Naoki; Morii, Eiichi

2017-01-01

Marginal zone lymphoma (MZL) is a low-grade B-cell lymphoma derived from marginal zone B cells. Because of a lack of specific immunohistochemical markers, MZL is mainly diagnosed based on the cytological appearance and growth pattern of the tumor. Marginal zone B cells were recently shown to selectively express immunoglobulin superfamily receptor translocation-associated 1 (IRTA1), but the antibody used in that study is not commercially available. We therefore investigated the IRTA1 expression in nonneoplastic lymphoid tissues and 261 malignant lymphomas, examining the ability of a commercially available antibody to accurately diagnose MZL. Among 37 MZLs, 23 of 25 extranodal MZLs of mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT lymphomas), 3 of 6 splenic MZLs and 3 of 6 nodal MZLs were positive for IRTA1. Among the 98 diffuse large B-cell lymphomas, 33 were positive for IRTA1, including 1 of 38 follicular lymphomas, and all precursor B-lymphoblastic (2/2) and T-lymphoblastic (7/7) leukemia/lymphomas. Other mature B-cell and T-cell lymphomas, and Hodgkin lymphoma were negative for IRTA1. In MALT lymphoma, positive cells were detected mainly in intraepithelial and subepithelial marginal zone B cells. In 1 case of grade 3 follicular lymphoma, IRTA1 was also expressed in the area of large cell transformation. When tumors were classified as germinal center B cell-like (GCB) or non-GCB using the algorithm of Hans, positive expression of IRTA1 was correlated significantly with non-GCB diffuse large B-cell lymphomas (P < .05). These results demonstrated the ability of the commercially available IRTA1 antibody to distinguish MALT lymphoma from other low-grade B-cell lymphomas. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Kinetic and mechanistic study of the gas-phase reaction of CxF2x+1CHCH2 (x=1, 2, 3, 4 and 6) with O3 under atmospheric conditions.

PubMed

Soto, A; Ballesteros, B; Jiménez, E; Antiñolo, M; Martínez, E; Albaladejo, J

2018-06-01

The relative-rate technique has been used to determine the rate coefficient for the reaction of C x F 2x+1 CHCH 2 (x = 1, 2, 3, 4 and 6) with ozone at (298 ± 2) K and (720 ± 5) Torr of air by FTIR (Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy) and by GC-MS/SPME (Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectroscopy with Solid Phase Micro Extraction) in two different atmospheric simulation chambers. The following rate coefficients, in units of 10 -19  cm 3 molecule -1 s -1 , were obtained: (3.01 ± 0.10) for CF 3 CHCH 2 , (2.11 ± 0.35) for C 2 F 5 CHCH 2 , (2.34 ± 0.42) for C 3 F 7 CHCH 2 , (2.05 ± 0.31) for C 4 F 9 CHCH 2 and (2.07 ± 0.39) for C 6 F 13 CHCH 2 , where uncertainties represent ±2σ statistical error. The atmospheric lifetime of C x F 2x+1 CHCH 2 due to reaction with ozone was estimated from the reported rate coefficients. Additionally, the gaseous products formed in these reactions were investigated in the presence of synthetic air simulating a clean atmosphere. Perfluoroaldehydes, C x F 2x+1 C(O)H (PFALs), formaldehyde, formic acid and CF 2 O were identified as reaction products in the investigated reactions. The identified products made possible to propose a reaction mechanism that justifies the observed products. The atmospheric implications of these results are discussed in terms of the potential contribution of the atmospheric degradation of these species to PFAL and PFCA burden. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
External quality assessment programs in the context of ISO 15189 accreditation.

PubMed

Sciacovelli, Laura; Secchiero, Sandra; Padoan, Andrea; Plebani, Mario

2018-05-23

Effective management of clinical laboratories participating in external quality assessment schemes (EQAS) is of fundamental importance in ensuring reliable analytical results. The International Standard ISO 15189:2012 requires participation in interlaboratory comparison [e.g. external quality assessment (EQA)] for all tests provided by an individual laboratory. If EQAS is not commercially available, alternative approaches should be identified, although clinical laboratories may find it challenging to choose the EQAS that comply with the international standards and approved guidelines. Great competence is therefore required, as well as knowledge of the characteristics and key elements affecting the reliability of an EQAS, and the analytical quality specifications stated in approved documents. Another skill of fundamental importance is the ability to identify an alternative approach when the available EQAS are inadequate or missing. Yet the choice of the right EQA program alone does not guarantee its effectiveness. In fact, the fundamental steps of analysis of the information provided in EQA reports and the ability to identify improvement actions to be undertaken call for the involvement of all laboratory staff playing a role in the specific activity. The aim of this paper was to describe the critical aspects that EQA providers and laboratory professionals should control in order to guarantee effective EQAS management and compliance with ISO 15189 accreditation requirements.
Detection of Hearing Loss Using 2f2-f1 and 2f1-f2 Distortion-Product Otoacoustic Emissions

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fitzgerald, Tracy S.; Prieve, Beth A.

2005-01-01

Although many distortion-product otoacoustic emissions (DPOAEs) may be measured in the ear canal in response to 2 pure tone stimuli, the majority of clinical studies have focused exclusively on the DPOAE at the frequency 2f1-f2. This study investigated another DPOAE, 2f2-f1, in an attempt to determine the following: (a) the optimal stimulus…
The crystal structure of synthetic simmonsite, Na 2LiAlF 6

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ross, Kirk C.; Mitchell, Roger H.; Chakhmouradian, Anton R.

2003-04-01

The structure of the synthetic fluoroperovskite, Na 2LiAlF 6 (simmonsite), has been determined by powder X-ray diffraction using the Rietveld method of structure refinement. The compound adopts space group P2 1/ n [#14; a=5.2842(1); b=5.3698(1); c=7.5063(2) Å; β=89.98(1)°; Z=4), and is a member of the cryolite (Na 2NaAlF 6) structural group characterized by ordering of the B-site cations (Li, Al) and tilting of the BF 6 octahedra according to the tilt scheme a-b-c+. Rotations of the B-site polyhedra are less ( ΦLi=14.9°; ΦAl=17.0°) than those found in cryolite ( ΦNa=18.6; ΦAl=23.5°) because of the larger difference in the ionic radii of the B-site cations in cryolite as compared to those in simmonsite. Na at the A-site is displaced from the special position resulting in 10- and 8-fold coordination in simmonsite and cryolite, respectively. By analogy with the synthetic compound, naturally occurring simmonsite is considered to adopt space group P2 1/ n (#14) and not the P2 1(#4) or P2 1/ m(#11) space groups.
Small 6q16.1 Deletions Encompassing POU3F2 Cause Susceptibility to Obesity and Variable Developmental Delay with Intellectual Disability.

PubMed

Kasher, Paul R; Schertz, Katherine E; Thomas, Megan; Jackson, Adam; Annunziata, Silvia; Ballesta-Martinez, María J; Campeau, Philippe M; Clayton, Peter E; Eaton, Jennifer L; Granata, Tiziana; Guillén-Navarro, Encarna; Hernando, Cristina; Laverriere, Caroline E; Liedén, Agne; Villa-Marcos, Olaya; McEntagart, Meriel; Nordgren, Ann; Pantaleoni, Chiara; Pebrel-Richard, Céline; Sarret, Catherine; Sciacca, Francesca L; Wright, Ronnie; Kerr, Bronwyn; Glasgow, Eric; Banka, Siddharth

2016-02-04

Genetic studies of intellectual disability and identification of monogenic causes of obesity in humans have made immense contribution toward the understanding of the brain and control of body mass. The leptin > melanocortin > SIM1 pathway is dysregulated in multiple monogenic human obesity syndromes but its downstream targets are still unknown. In ten individuals from six families, with overlapping 6q16.1 deletions, we describe a disorder of variable developmental delay, intellectual disability, and susceptibility to obesity and hyperphagia. The 6q16.1 deletions segregated with the phenotype in multiplex families and were shown to be de novo in four families, and there was dramatic phenotypic overlap among affected individuals who were independently ascertained without bias from clinical features. Analysis of the deletions revealed a ∼350 kb critical region on chromosome 6q16.1 that encompasses a gene for proneuronal transcription factor POU3F2, which is important for hypothalamic development and function. Using morpholino and mutant zebrafish models, we show that POU3F2 lies downstream of SIM1 and controls oxytocin expression in the hypothalamic neuroendocrine preoptic area. We show that this finding is consistent with the expression patterns of POU3F2 and related genes in the human brain. Our work helps to further delineate the neuro-endocrine control of energy balance/body mass and demonstrates that this molecular pathway is conserved across multiple species. Copyright © 2016 The American Society of Human Genetics. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Long-term role of external breast prostheses after total mastectomy.

PubMed

Glaus, Simone W; Carlson, Grant W

2009-01-01

After total mastectomy, many women choose to wear external breast prosthesis rather than undergo breast reconstruction. The purpose of this study was to evaluate long-term satisfaction among external breast prosthesis wearers and the impact of satisfaction on prosthesis use. A questionnaire was designed to assess demographic information, prosthesis information provision, prosthesis use, and satisfaction with prosthesis. Fifty-nine women who had undergone total mastectomy without breast reconstruction completed the questionnaire. The majority of women (68%) were at least 5 years out from mastectomy. Approximately half (49%) of the women had received information about breast prostheses prior to mastectomy; 29% received information from the surgeon performing the operation. Frequent and prolonged prosthesis use was prevalent with 64% of participants reporting prosthesis use all the time, 6-7 days/week. Participants showed high rates (83%) of overall satisfaction. However, women who wore their prosthesis out in public only were less satisfied than more frequent wearers (50% versus 89%, chi(2) = 8.83, d.f. = 1, alpha = 0.05). Satisfaction increased over time, as women who were greater than 5 years out from mastectomy were more satisfied than women less that 5 years post-mastectomy (90% versus 67%, chi(2) = 4.43, d.f. = 1, alpha = 0.05). The vast majority of women are satisfied with their external breast prosthesis several years after mastectomy. Most women used their prosthesis all the time and overall satisfaction contributed to higher levels of prosthesis use. Given the long-term importance of external breast prostheses for women who have undergone mastectomy, a greater effort to inform patients about external breast prostheses prior to surgery is needed.
Activation of K-ras by codon 13 mutations in C57BL/6 X C3H F1 mouse tumors induced by exposure to 1,3-butadiene.

PubMed

Goodrow, T; Reynolds, S; Maronpot, R; Anderson, M

1990-08-01

1,3-Butadiene has been detected in urban air, gasoline vapors, and cigarette smoke. It has been estimated that 65,000 workers are exposed to this chemical in occupational settings in the United States. Lymphomas, lung, and liver tumors were induced in female and male C57BL/6 X C3H F1 (hereafter called B6C3F1) mice by inhalation of 6.25 to 625 ppm 1,3-butadiene for 1 to 2 years. The objective of this study was to examine these tumors for the presence of activated protooncogenes by the NIH 3T3 transfection and nude mouse tumorigenicity assays. Transfection of DNA isolated from 7 of 9 lung tumors and 7 of 12 liver tumors induced morphological transformation of NIH 3T3 cells. Southern blot analysis indicated that the transformation induced by 6 lung and 3 liver tumor DNA samples was due to transfer of a K-ras oncogene. Four of the 7 liver tumors that were positive upon transfection contained an activated H-ras gene. The identity of the transforming gene in one of the lung tumors has not been determined but was not a member of the ras family or a met or raf gene. Eleven 1,3-butadiene-induced lymphomas were examined for transforming genes using the nude mouse tumorigenicity assay. Activated K-ras genes were detected in 2 of the 11 lymphomas assayed. DNA sequencing of polymerase chain reaction-amplified ras gene exons revealed that 9 of 11 of the activating K-ras mutations were G to C transversions in codon 13. One liver tumor contained an activated K-ras gene with mutations in both codons 60 and 61. The activating mutation in one of the K-ras genes from a lymphoma was not identified but DNA sequence analysis of amplified regions in proximity to codons 12, 13, and 61 demonstrated that the mutation was not located in or near these codons. Activation of K-ras genes by codon 13 mutations has not been found in any lung or liver tumors or lymphomas from untreated B6C3F1 mice. Thus, the K-ras activation found in 1,3-butadiene-induced B6C3F1 mouse tumors probably occurred as a
Effect of training and level of external auditory feedback on the singing voice: volume and quality

PubMed Central

Bottalico, Pasquale; Graetzer, Simone; Hunter, Eric J.

2015-01-01

Background Previous research suggests that classically trained professional singers rely not only on external auditory feedback but also on proprioceptive feedback associated with internal voice sensitivities. Objectives The Lombard Effect in singers and the relationship between Sound Pressure Level (SPL) and external auditory feedback was evaluated for professional and non-professional singers. Additionally, the relationship between voice quality, evaluated in terms of Singing Power Ratio (SPR), and external auditory feedback, level of accompaniment, voice register and singer gender was analyzed. Methods The subjects were 10 amateur or beginner singers, and 10 classically-trained professional or semi-professional singers (10 males and 10 females). Subjects sang an excerpt from the Star-spangled Banner with three different levels of the accompaniment, 70, 80 and 90 dBA, and with three different levels of external auditory feedback. SPL and the SPR were analyzed. Results The Lombard Effect was stronger for non-professional singers than professional singers. Higher levels of external auditory feedback were associated with a reduction in SPL. As predicted, the mean SPR was higher for professional than non-professional singers. Better voice quality was detected in the presence of higher levels of external auditory feedback. Conclusions With an increase in training, the singer’s reliance on external auditory feedback decreases. PMID:26186810

Effect of Training and Level of External Auditory Feedback on the Singing Voice: Volume and Quality.

PubMed

Bottalico, Pasquale; Graetzer, Simone; Hunter, Eric J

2016-07-01

Previous research suggests that classically trained professional singers rely not only on external auditory feedback but also on proprioceptive feedback associated with internal voice sensitivities. The Lombard effect and the relationship between sound pressure level (SPL) and external auditory feedback were evaluated for professional and nonprofessional singers. Additionally, the relationship between voice quality, evaluated in terms of singing power ratio (SPR), and external auditory feedback, level of accompaniment, voice register, and singer gender was analyzed. The subjects were 10 amateur or beginner singers and 10 classically trained professional or semiprofessional singers (10 men and 10 women). Subjects sang an excerpt from the Star-Spangled Banner with three different levels of the accompaniment, 70, 80, and 90 dBA and with three different levels of external auditory feedback. SPL and SPR were analyzed. The Lombard effect was stronger for nonprofessional singers than professional singers. Higher levels of external auditory feedback were associated with a reduction in SPL. As predicted, the mean SPR was higher for professional singers than nonprofessional singers. Better voice quality was detected in the presence of higher levels of external auditory feedback. With an increase in training, the singer's reliance on external auditory feedback decreases. Copyright © 2016 The Voice Foundation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Human radiation dosimetry of 6-[{sup 18}F]FDG predicted from preclinical studies

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

Muzic, Raymond F., E-mail: raymond.muzic@case.edu; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio 44106; Case Center for Imaging Research, University Hospitals Case Medical Center, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio 44106

Purpose: The authors are developing 6-[{sup 18}F]fluoro-6-deoxy-D-glucose (6-[{sup 18}F]FDG) as an in vivo tracer of glucose transport. While 6-[{sup 18}F]FDG has the same radionuclide half-life as 2-[{sup 18}F]fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose (2-[{sup 18}F]FDG) which is ubiquitously used for PET imaging, 6-[{sup 18}F]FDG has special biologic properties and different biodistributions that make it preferable to 2-[{sup 18}F]FDG for assessing glucose transport. In preparation for 6-[{sup 18}F]FDG use in human PET scanning, the authors would like to determine the amount of 6-[{sup 18}F]FDG to inject while maintaining radiation doses in a safe range. Methods: Rats were injected with 6-[{sup 18}F]FDG, euthanized at specified times, andmore » tissues were collected and assayed for activity content. For each tissue sample, the percent of injected dose per gram was calculated and extrapolated to that for humans in order to construct predicted time-courses. Residence times were calculated as areas under the curves and were used as inputs to OLINDA/EXM in order to calculate the radiation doses. Results: Unlike with 2-[{sup 18}F]FDG for which the urinary bladder wall receives the highest absorbed dose due to urinary excretion, with 6-[{sup 18}F]FDG there is little urinary excretion and osteogenic cells and the liver are predicted to receive the highest absorbed doses: 0.027 mGy/MBq (0.100 rad/mCi) and 0.018 mGy/MBq (0.066 rad/mCi), respectively. Also, the effective dose from 6-[{sup 18}F]FDG, i.e., 0.013 mSv/MBq (0.046 rem/mCi), is predicted to be approximately 30% lower than that from 2-[{sup 18}F]FDG. Conclusions: 6-[{sup 18}F]FDG will be safe for use in the PET scanning of humans.« less
Effect of biotin supplementation on meat quality of F1 Wagyu/Black Angus feedlot steers of known genotype.

PubMed

Lawrence, R J; Doyle, J C; Elliott, R; Norton, B W; Loxton, I

2007-10-01

Biotin (D-biotin) was supplemented to F1 Wagyu/Black Angus steers fed a wheat-based ration to evaluate the effect on meat quality. One hundred and eight steers of known Wagyu sire lines were assigned to three biotin treatments (0, 10 and 20mg/head/day) with each treatment replicated four times using an unfasted liveweight of 410.5kg (±24.42 SD). Biotin supplementation had no effect (P>0.05) on beef marbling standard at either the 5/6th or 10/11th rib quartering site, 10/11th rib intra-muscular fat percentage, intra-muscular fat fatty acid composition or adipose melting points. Wagyu genotype had an effect (P<0.05) on beef marbling standard and intra-muscular fat percentage at the 10/11th rib, inter-muscular and intra-muscular melting point and fatty acid composition of intra-muscular fat. A significant (P<0.001) but poor correlation existed between beef marbling standard and intra-muscular fat percentage (R(2)=0.198). Total conjugated linoleic acid had a highly significantly (P<0.0001) positive correlation to intra-muscular fat percentage (R(2)=0.446).
Activation of Ftz-F1-Responsive Genes through Ftz/Ftz-F1 Dependent Enhancers

PubMed Central

Field, Amanda; Xiang, Jie; Anderson, W. Ray; Graham, Patricia; Pick, Leslie

2016-01-01

The orphan nuclear receptor Ftz-F1 is expressed in all somatic nuclei in Drosophila embryos, but mutations result in a pair-rule phenotype. This was explained by the interaction of Ftz-F1 with the homeodomain protein Ftz that is expressed in stripes in the primordia of segments missing in either ftz-f1 or ftz mutants. Ftz-F1 and Ftz were shown to physically interact and coordinately activate the expression of ftz itself and engrailed by synergistic binding to composite Ftz-F1/Ftz binding sites. However, attempts to identify additional target genes on the basis of Ftz-F1/ Ftz binding alone has met with only limited success. To discern rules for Ftz-F1 target site selection in vivo and to identify additional target genes, a microarray analysis was performed comparing wildtype and ftz-f1 mutant embryos. Ftz-F1-responsive genes most highly regulated included engrailed and nine additional genes expressed in patterns dependent on both ftz and ftz-f1. Candidate enhancers for these genes were identified by combining BDTNP Ftz ChIP-chip data with a computational search for Ftz-F1 binding sites. Of eight enhancer reporter genes tested in transgenic embryos, six generated expression patterns similar to the corresponding endogenous gene and expression was lost in ftz mutants. These studies identified a new set of Ftz-F1 targets, all of which are co-regulated by Ftz. Comparative analysis of enhancers containing Ftz/Ftz-F1 binding sites that were or were not bona fide targets in vivo suggested that GAF negatively regulates enhancers that contain Ftz/Ftz-F1 binding sites but are not actually utilized. These targets include other regulatory factors as well as genes involved directly in morphogenesis, providing insight into how pair-rule genes establish the body pattern. PMID:27723822
Diffusion and the dynamics of displacive phase transitions in cryolite (Na3AlF6) and chiolite (Na5Al3F14): Multi-nuclear NMR studies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Spearing, Dane R.; Stebbins, Jonathan F.; Farnan, Ian

1994-10-01

Cryolite is a mixed-cation perovskite (Na2(NaAl)F6) which undergoes a monoclinic to orthorhombic displacive phase transition at ˜550° C. Chiolite (Na5Al3F14) is associated with cryolite in natural deposits, and consists of sheets of corner sharing [AlF6] octahedra interlayered with edge-sharing [NaF6] octahedra. Multi-nuclear NMR line shape and relaxation time (T1) studies were performed on cryolite and chiolite in order to gain a better understanding of the atomic motions associated with the phase transition in cryolite, and Na diffusion in cryolite and chiolite. 27Al, 23Na, and 19F static NMR spectra and T1's in cryolite suggest that oscillatory motions of the [AlF6] octahedra among four micro-twin and anti-phase domains in α-cryolite begin at least 150° C below the transition temperature and persist above it. Variable temperature 23Na MAS NMR further indicates diffusional exchange at a rate of at least 13 kHz between the Na sites by the time the transition temperature is reached. 27Al and 23Na T1's show the same behavior with increasing temperature, indicating the same relaxation mechanisms are responsible for both. The first order nature of the cryolite transition is apparent as a jump in the 23Na and 27Al T1's. Above the transition temperature, the T1's decrease slightly indicating that the motions responsible for the drop in T1, are still present above the transition, further supporting the dynamic nature of the high temperature phase of cryolite. Chiolite 23Na static spectra decrease in linewidth with increasing temperature, indicating increased Na diffusion, which is interpreted as occurring within the [NaF6] sheets in the chiolite structure, but not between the two different Na sites. 27Al and 23Na T1's show similar behavior as in cryolite, but there is no discontinuity due to a phase transition. 19F T1's are constant from room temperature to 150° C indicating no oscillatory motion of the [AlF6] octahedra in chiolite.
Defect Structures of La1 - y Sr y F3 - y , La1 - y Ba y F3 - y , and Nd1 - y Ca y F3 - y ( y = 0.05, 0.10) Nonstoichiometric Tysonite Phases

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chernaya, T. S.; Verin, I. A.; Khrykina, O. N.; Bolotina, N. B.

2018-01-01

Characteristic features of defect structures of La1 - y Sr y F3 - y , La1 - y Ba y F3 - y , and Nd1 - y Ca y F3 - y ( y = 0.05, 0.10) nonstoichiometric phases of different compositions are determined from X-ray diffraction data. Interest in subtle details of their structure is determined by the possibility of ion transport over fluorine vacancies and by a strong compositional dependence of the ionic conductivity. The La0.95Sr0.05F2.95, La0.95Ba0.05F2.95, and Nd0.95Ca0.05F2.95 phases, as well as the La0.9Ba0.1F2.9 phase, crystallize as β-LaF3 (sp. gr. P3̅c1, Z = 6). The La0.9Sr0.1F2.9 and Nd0.9Ca0.1F2.9 phases lose their superstructure and are described by a cell whose volume is three times smaller (sp. gr. P63/ mmc, Z = 2). Defects of crystal structure R1 - y M y F3 - y are not exhausted by vacancies in fluorine positions. All crystals with a "large" cell are twinned according to the merohedral twin law. The majority of atomic positions in models with a "small" cell are split by group symmetry elements and are occupied statistically.
The Impact of External Quality Assessment on Universities: The Estonian Experience

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Vilgats, Birgit; Heidmets, Mati

2011-01-01

This article seeks to establish what impact external quality assessment had on universities in Estonia between 1997 and 2009. It is based on a study of the analysis of experts' reports of curricula accreditation and interviews with university and programme managers, undertaken between 2007 and 2009. The study included an analysis of 12 curricula…
Immunohistochemical localization of human papilloma virus in conjunctival neoplasias: A retrospective study

PubMed Central

Sharma, Anjana; Panda, Anita

2007-01-01

Background: The extent of association of human papilloma virus (HPV) in human conjunctival neoplasias has been debated in studies originating from different parts of the world, but no substantial evidence has been generated on Indian subjects. This prompted us to carry out a retrospective study on conjunctival neoplasias diagnosed over the past 12 years. Materials and Methods: Histopathological and immunohistochemical analysis of 65 specimens of ocular neoplasias and 30 normal controls diagnosed between 1991 and 2002 at a tertiary eye care hospital, was undertaken. Formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissues were reviewed for confirming histopathological diagnosis, presence of koilocytosis and changes related to actinic keratosis. Immunohistochemical analysis was done using HPV-specific monoclonal antibodies. Clinicopathological correlation and the association of HPV antigen with the histopathological features were performed. Results: Out of the 65 cases analyzed, 35 were papillomas and 30 were ocular surface squamous neoplasias (OSSN). The mean age was 48 years with a male preponderance. Histologically, koilocytosis was observed in 17.1% of papillomas and 36.6% of OSSN. Actinic keratosis was present in 33% of OSSN. Immunohistochemically 17.1% conjunctival papillomas stained positive for HPV antigen, all cases of OSSN were negative for HPV. There was no correlation between koilocytosis or actinic keratosis and the detection of HPV antigen. Conclusions: The association between HPV and conjunctival neoplasias is variable in different geographical areas and also depends on the methods of detection used. This study warrants the need for applying more advanced techniques at a molecular level to determine the possible etiology of HPV in conjunctival neoplasias among Asian-Indians. PMID:17699945
Immunohistochemical detection of a substituted 1,N(2)-ethenodeoxyguanosine adduct by omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acid hydroperoxides in the liver of rats fed a choline-deficient, L-amino acid-defined diet.

PubMed

Kawai, Yoshichika; Kato, Yoji; Nakae, Dai; Kusuoka, Osamu; Konishi, Yoichi; Uchida, Koji; Osawa, Toshihiko

2002-03-01

Endogenous lipid peroxidation products react with DNA and form exocyclic DNA adducts. The purpose of this study was to investigate the in vivo formation of 7-(2-oxo-heptyl)-substituted 1,N(2)-etheno-2'-deoxyguanosine adduct (Oxo-heptyl-varepsilondG), one of the major products from the reaction of 13-hydroperoxyoctadecadienoic acid (13-HPODE) with dG. The monoclonal antibody specific to Oxo-heptyl-varepsilondG was prepared using a chemically synthesized conjugate of Oxo-heptyl-varepsilondG and carrier protein as immunogen. The characterization showed that the obtained antibody (mAb6A3) is specific to the Oxo-heptyl-varepsilondG moiety. Using the novel antibody, the presence of the Oxo-heptyl-varepsilondG adduct in vivo was immunohistochemically revealed in the liver of rats fed a choline-deficient, L-amino acid-defined diet, an endogenous carcinogenesis model, for 3 days. In addition, the Oxo-heptyl-varepsilondG formation was confirmed in DNAs treated with peroxidized linoleic acid, arachidonic acid and gamma-linolenic acid, respectively, suggesting that the hydroperoxides of omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids could be the potential sources of Oxo-heptyl-varepsilondG formation in vivo. Collectively, the results in this study suggest the first evidence that the formation of Oxo-heptyl-varepsilondG, the omega-6 lipid hydroperoxide-mediated DNA adduct, may be a potential biomarker for the early phase of carcinogenesis.
External quality control for embryology laboratories.

PubMed

Castilla, Jose Antonio; Ruiz de Assín, Rafael; Gonzalvo, Maria Carmen; Clavero, Ana; Ramírez, Juan Pablo; Vergara, Francisco; Martínez, Luis

2010-01-01

Participation in external quality control (EQC) programmes is recommended by various scientific societies. Results from an EQC programme for embryology laboratories are presented. This 5-year programme consisted of the annual delivery of (i) materials to test toxicity and (ii) a DVD/CD-ROM with images of zygotes and embryos on days 2 and 3, on the basis of which the participants were asked to judge the embryo quality and to take a clinical decision. A high degree of agreement was considered achieved when over 75% of the laboratories produced similar classifications. With respect to the materials analysed, the specificity was 68% and the sensitivity was 83%. Concerning embryo classification, the proportion of embryos on which a high degree of agreement was achieved increased during this period from 35% to 55%. No improvement was observed in the degree of agreement on the clinical decision to be taken. Day-3 embryos produced a higher degree of agreement (58%) than did day-2 embryos (32%) (P<0.05). Participation in EQC increased the degree of inter-laboratory agreement on embryo classification, but not the corresponding agreement on clinical decision taking. It is necessary to introduce measures aimed at standardizing decision taking procedures in embryology laboratories. Copyright (c) 2009 Reproductive Healthcare Ltd. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Analysis of Oxidative Stress and Wound-Inducible Dinor Isoprostanes F1 (Phytoprostanes F1) in Plants1

PubMed Central

Imbusch, Ruth; Mueller, Martin J.

2000-01-01

Isoprostanes F2 are arachidonate autoxidation products in mammals that have been shown to be induced during several human disorders associated with enhanced free-radical generation. Isoprostanes F2 represent not only extremely reliable markers of oxidative stress in vivo, but they also exert potent biological effects. Therefore, it has been postulated that isoprostanoids are mediators of oxidant injury in vivo. Higher plants, however, do not synthesize arachidonic acid or isoprostanes. Here we show that a series of isoprostane F2 analogs termed phytoprostanes F1 (previously dinor isoprostanes F1) are formed by an analogous pathway from α-linolenate in plants. High-performance liquid chromatography and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry methods using [18O]3phytoprostanes F1 as internal standard have been developed to quantify phytoprostanes F1. In fresh peppermint (Mentha piperita) leaves, phytoprostanes F1 were found in free form (76 ng/g of dry weight) and at about 150-fold higher levels esterified in lipids. It is notable that these levels of phytoprostanes F1 are more than two orders of magnitude higher than the basal levels of isoprostanes F2 in mammalian tissues. Furthermore, wounding, as well as butyl hydroperoxide or cupric acetate stress triggered a dramatic increase of free and esterified phytoprostanes F1. Thus phytoprostanes F1 may represent a sensitive measure of oxidative damage in plants similar to isoprostanes in mammals. However, one of the most exciting issues to be clarified is the possibility that linolenate-derived phytoprostanes F1 exert biological activities in plants and/or animals. PMID:11080305
Simultaneous F 0-F 1 modifications of Arabic for the improvement of natural-sounding

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ykhlef, F.; Bensebti, M.

2013-03-01

Pitch (F 0) modification is one of the most important problems in the area of speech synthesis. Several techniques have been developed in the literature to achieve this goal. The main restrictions of these techniques are in the modification range and the synthesised speech quality, intelligibility and naturalness. The control of formants in a spoken language can significantly improve the naturalness of the synthesised speech. This improvement is mainly dependent on the control of the first formant (F 1). Inspired by this observation, this article proposes a new approach that modifies both F 0 and F 1 of Arabic voiced sounds in order to improve the naturalness of the pitch shifted speech. The developed strategy takes a parallel processing approach, in which the analysis segments are decomposed into sub-bands in the wavelet domain, modified in the desired sub-band by using a resampling technique and reconstructed without affecting the remained sub-bands. Pitch marking and voicing detection are performed in the frequency decomposition step based on the comparison of the multi-level approximation and detail signals. The performance of the proposed technique is evaluated by listening tests and compared to the pitch synchronous overlap and add (PSOLA) technique in the third approximation level. Experimental results have shown that the manipulation in the wavelet domain of F 0 in conjunction with F 1 guarantees natural-sounding of the synthesised speech compared to the classical pitch modification technique. This improvement was appropriate for high pitch modifications.
VizieR Online Data Catalog: C/2012 F6 (Lemmon) and C/2013 R1 (Lovejoy) spectra (Biver+, 2014)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Biver, N.; Bockelee-Morvan, D.; Debout, V.; Crovisier, J.; Boissier, J.; Lis, D. C.; Dello Russo, N.; Moreno, R.; Colom, P.; Paubert, G.; Vervack, R.; Weaver, H. A.

2014-06-01

Sum spectra of the lines of formamide and ethylene-glycol which intensities are listed in Tables 4 and 5. One fits file per spectrum, fits output from class (http://www.iram.fr/IRAMFR/GILDAS/). object.dat : -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Code Name Elem q e i H1 d AU deg mag -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- C/2012 F6 Lemmon 2456375.5 0.7312461 0.9985125 82.607966 7.96 C/2013 R1 Lovejoy 2456651.5 0.8118182 0.9983297 64.040457 11.66 (2 data files).
[Analysis of the results of the SEIMC External Quality Control Program. Year 2011].

PubMed

Ruiz de Gopegui Bordes, Enrique; Guna Serrano, M del Remedio; Orta Mira, Nieves; Ovies, María Rosario; Poveda, Marta; Gimeno Cardona, Concepción

2013-02-01

The External Quality Control Program of the Spanish Society of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology (Sociedad Española de Enfermedades Infecciosas y Microbiología Clínica [SEIMC]) includes controls for bacteriology, serology, mycology, parasitology, mycobacteria, virology, and molecular microbiology. This article presents the most relevant conclusions and lessons from the 2011 controls. Overall, the results obtained in 2011 confirm the excellent skill and good technical standards found in previous years. Nevertheless, erroneous results can be obtained in any laboratory and in clinically relevant determinations. The results of this program highlight the need to implement both internal and external controls, such as those offered by the SEIMC program, in order to ensure maximal quality of microbiological tests. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier España, S.L. All rights reserved.
Feasibility of an intracranial EEG-fMRI protocol at 3T: risk assessment and image quality.

PubMed

Boucousis, Shannon M; Beers, Craig A; Cunningham, Cameron J B; Gaxiola-Valdez, Ismael; Pittman, Daniel J; Goodyear, Bradley G; Federico, Paolo

2012-11-15

Integrating intracranial EEG (iEEG) with functional MRI (iEEG-fMRI) may help elucidate mechanisms underlying the generation of seizures. However, the introduction of iEEG electrodes in the MR environment has inherent risk and data quality implications that require consideration prior to clinical use. Previous studies of subdural and depth electrodes have confirmed low risk under specific circumstances at 1.5T and 3T. However, no studies have assessed risk and image quality related to the feasibility of a full iEEG-fMRI protocol. To this end, commercially available platinum subdural grid/strip electrodes (4×5 grid or 1×8 strip) and 4 or 6-contact depth electrodes were secured to the surface of a custom-made phantom mimicking the conductivity of the human brain. Electrode displacement, temperature increase of electrodes and surrounding phantom material, and voltage fluctuations in electrode contacts were measured in a GE Discovery MR750 3T MR scanner during a variety of imaging sequences, typical of an iEEG-fMRI protocol. An electrode grid was also used to quantify the spatial extent of susceptibility artifact. The spatial extent of susceptibility artifact in the presence of an electrode was also assessed for typical imaging parameters that maximize BOLD sensitivity at 3T (TR=1500 ms; TE=30 ms; slice thickness=4mm; matrix=64×64; field-of-view=24 cm). Under standard conditions, all electrodes exhibited no measurable displacement and no clinically significant temperature increase (<1°C) during scans employed in a typical iEEG-fMRI experiment, including 60 min of continuous fMRI. However, high SAR sequences, such as fast spin-echo (FSE), produced significant heating in almost all scenarios (>2.0°C) that in some cases exceeded 10°C. Induced voltages in the frequency range that could elicit neuronal stimulation (<10 kHz) were well below the threshold of 100 mV. fMRI signal intensity was significantly reduced within 20mm of the electrodes for the imaging parameters
A Selected Immunohistochemical Panel Aids in Differential Diagnosis and Prognostic Stratification of Subtypes of High-grade Endometrial Carcinoma: A Clinicopathologic and Immunohistochemical Study at a Single Institution.

PubMed

Taskin, Orhun Çiğ; Onder, Semen; Topuz, Samet; Sozen, Hamdullah; Sen, Fatma; Ilhan, Ridvan; Yavuz, Ekrem

This study aimed to investigate whether a selected immunohistochemical panel (estrogen receptor, p53, ARID1A, PPP2R1A, HNF-1β) could contribute to the diagnostic process of high-grade endometrial carcinomas (HG-ECs). We also aimed to analyze the correlation of these immunohistochemical results with several morphologic variables and survival data. After revising the diagnosis of 78 HG-ECs, immunohistochemical analysis was performed for each case. After immunohistochemical analysis, a specific diagnosis of prototypic HG-EC was established in most of the cases that were uncertain due to morphologic ambiguity. In the univariate analysis, older patient age, type II morphology, undifferentiated carcinoma and carcinosarcoma type of histology, altered p53 immunostaining, strong membranous staining of PPP2R1A, presence of lymphovascular invasion in serous carcinoma, and microcystic, elongated, and fragmented-type infiltration pattern in endometrioid carcinoma were significantly related to poor prognosis. In the multivariate analysis, only older patient age and carcinosarcoma or undifferentiated/dedifferentiated carcinoma type histology were found to be significantly poor prognostic factors (P=0.011), whereas advanced FIGO stage and type II histology were found to be correlated with poor prognosis, but did not reach statistical significance. We suggest that immunohistochemistry should be used in the differential diagnosis of HG-ECs, especially those with ambiguous morphology. Markers used in this study made a valuable contribution to the diagnostic process as well as prediction of prognosis.
Using IFN-γ antibodies to identify the pathogens of fungal rhinosinusitis: A novel immunohistochemical approach

PubMed Central

Yan, Yuyan; Zhao, Zuotao; Dong, Gehong; Han, Yiding; Yang, Dongmei; Yin, Hongyan; Piao, Yingshi; He, Chunyan; Tian, Cheng; Wan, Hongfei; Li, Xue; Jin, Yulan; Fang, Jugao; Liu, Honggang

2018-01-01

Fungal rhinosinusitis (FRS) is commonly caused by various Aspergillus species (spp) and Mucorales fungi, and the treatment and prognosis of cases differ depending on the causative fungus. The present study describes a novel immunohistochemical method that has high sensitivity and specificity for distinguishing between these two types of fungi in patients with FRS. Three groups were included in the study. Group A included formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded blocks of 51 nasal tissue specimens of patients with FRS (27 Aspergillus spp and 24 Mucorales) that were continuously obtained from the Department of Pathology of Tongren Hospital in Beijing as the experimental group and 34 cultures (26 Aspergillus spp and 8 Mucorales) of FRS that were randomly selected from the bacterial laboratory of Tongren Hospital in Beijing to verify the staining results of the paraffin-embedded blocks. Formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded blocks of 10 esophageal cancer specimens were included in Group B as the positive control group. All specimens in Groups A and B were stained with interferon-γ (IFN-γ) antibody. Group C consisted of the same specimens as described in Group A, however, when performing the immunohistochemical assay, IFN-γ antibody was replaced by PBS and this served as the negative control group. The differences in IFN-γ immunohistochemical staining between Aspergillus spp and Mucorales were analyzed. Staining of IFN-γ in paraffin-embedded samples was positive in 92.6% (25/27) of specimens in which Aspergillus spp were the causative pathogen, which was significantly higher compared with specimens in which Mucorales was causative (P<0.001), with only 4.2% (1/24) of specimens staining positive for IFN-γ. Immunohistochemical staining of cell cultures was 100% positive for Aspergillus spp, whereas all Mucorales were negative. Thus, the results of the current study indicated that IFN-γ antibody immunohistochemical staining may be used as a novel diagnostic tool to distinguish
Free-Spinning-Tunnel Investigation of a 1/24-Scale Model of the Grumman F9F-6 Airplane TED No. NACA DE 364

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Klinar, Walter J.; Healy, Frederick M.

1952-01-01

An investigation of a 1/24-scale model of the Grumman F9F-6 airplane has been conducted in the Langley 20-foot free-spinning tunnel. The erect and inverted spin and recovery characteristics of the model were determined for the normal flight loading with the model in the clean condition. The effect of loading variations was investigated briefly. Spin-recovery parachute tests were also performed. The results indicate that erect spins obtained on the airplane in the clean condition will be satisfactorily terminated for all loading conditions provided full rudder reversal is accompanied by moving the ailerons and flaperons (lateral controls) to full with the spin (stick right in a right spin). Inverted spins should be satisfactorily terminated by full reversal of the rudder alone. The model tests indicate that an 11.4-foot (laid-out-flat diameter) tail parachute (drag coefficient approximately 0.73) should be effective as an emergency spin-recovery device during demonstration spins of the airplane provided the towline is attached above the horizontal stabilizer.
Radiation and Thermal Transformations of Hydrogen Defects in Li6F and LiF:OH

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Akhvlediani, Z. G.; Akhvlediani, I. G.

2010-11-01

Hydrogen and tritium defects formed in LiF under the action of neutron radiation under different conditions have been studied. It is shown that U-centers are registered in LiF:OH without additional heating of the sample after irradiation. The behavior of H0 and T0 atoms in Li6 F irradiated at 20 K was studied, and the places of their stabilization were established.
External quality assessment of clinical laboratories in the United Kingdom

PubMed Central

Whitehead, TP; Woodford, FP

1981-01-01

A review is given of the National External Quality Assessment Schemes (NEQASs) in various pathology disciplines in the United Kingdom, with a discussion of the relative roles of the DHSS, individual laboratory scientists, and the relevant professional bodies. Principles of operation and scientific problems in the design of NEQASs in different disciplines are described and contrasted, and some comparisons with the experience in other European countries and the USA are drawn. PMID:7024326

Phenotypic and immunohistochemical characterization of sarcoglycanopathies

PubMed Central

Ferreira, Ana F. B.; Carvalho, Mary S.; Resende, Maria Bernadete D.; Wakamatsu, Alda; Reed, Umbertina Conti; Marie, Suely Kazue Nagahashi

2011-01-01

INTRODUCTION: Limb-girdle muscular dystrophy presents with heterogeneous clinical and molecular features. The primary characteristic of this disorder is proximal muscular weakness with variable age of onset, speed of progression, and intensity of symptoms. Sarcoglycanopathies, which are a subgroup of the limb-girdle muscular dystrophies, are caused by mutations in sarcoglycan genes. Mutations in these genes cause secondary deficiencies in other proteins, due to the instability of the dystrophin-glycoprotein complex. Therefore, determining the etiology of a given sarcoglycanopathy requires costly and occasionally inaccessible molecular methods. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to identify phenotypic differences among limb-girdle muscular dystrophy patients who were grouped according to the immunohistochemical phenotypes for the four sarcoglycans. METHODS: To identify phenotypic differences among patients with different types of sarcoglycanopathies, a questionnaire was used and the muscle strength and range of motion of nine joints in 45 patients recruited from the Department of Neurology – HC-FMUSP (Clinics Hospital of the Faculty of Medicine of the University of São Paulo) were evaluated. The findings obtained from these analyses were compared with the results of the immunohistochemical findings. RESULTS: The patients were divided into the following groups based on the immunohistochemical findings: α-sarcoglycanopathies (16 patients), β-sarcoglycanopathies (1 patient), γ-sarcoglycanopathies (5 patients), and non-sarcoglycanopathies (23 patients). The muscle strength analysis revealed significant differences for both upper and lower limb muscles, particularly the shoulder and hip muscles, as expected. No pattern of joint contractures was found among the four groups analyzed, even within the same family. However, a high frequency of tiptoe gait was observed in patients with α-sarcoglycanopathies, while calf pseudo-hypertrophy was most common in patients
Integrin β6 serves as an immunohistochemical marker for lymph node metastasis and promotes cell invasiveness in cholangiocarcinoma

PubMed Central

Li, Zequn; Biswas, Siddhartha; Liang, Benjia; Zou, Xueqing; Shan, Liqun; Li, Yang; Fang, Ruliang; Niu, Jun

2016-01-01

Cholangiocarcinoma is a devastating malignancy that is notoriously difficult to diagnose and is associated with a high mortality. Despite extensive efforts to improve the diagnosis and treatment of this neoplasm, limited progress has been made. Integrin β6 is a subtype of integrin that is expressed exclusively on the surfaces of epithelial cells and is associated with a variety of tumors. In the present study, we investigated the expression and roles of integrin β6 in cholangiocarcinoma. β6 upregulation in cholangiocarcinoma was correlated with lymph node metastasis and distant metastasis. Moreover, integrin β6 was identified as a biomarker for the diagnosis of cholangiocarcinoma and an indicator of lymph node metastasis. Integrin β6 significantly promoted the proliferation, migration and invasion of cholangiocarcinoma cells. Furthermore, integrin β6 increased Rac1-GTPase, resulting in the upregulation of metalloproteinase-9 (MMP9) and F-actin polymerization. Taken together, our results indicate that integrin β6 promotes tumor invasiveness in a Rac1-dependent manner and is a potential biomarker for tumor metastasis. Integrin β6 may help to improve the diagnostic accuracy, and targeting β6 may be a novel strategy for the treatment of cholangiocarcinoma. PMID:27440504
Integrin β6 serves as an immunohistochemical marker for lymph node metastasis and promotes cell invasiveness in cholangiocarcinoma.

PubMed

Li, Zequn; Biswas, Siddhartha; Liang, Benjia; Zou, Xueqing; Shan, Liqun; Li, Yang; Fang, Ruliang; Niu, Jun

2016-07-21

Cholangiocarcinoma is a devastating malignancy that is notoriously difficult to diagnose and is associated with a high mortality. Despite extensive efforts to improve the diagnosis and treatment of this neoplasm, limited progress has been made. Integrin β6 is a subtype of integrin that is expressed exclusively on the surfaces of epithelial cells and is associated with a variety of tumors. In the present study, we investigated the expression and roles of integrin β6 in cholangiocarcinoma. β6 upregulation in cholangiocarcinoma was correlated with lymph node metastasis and distant metastasis. Moreover, integrin β6 was identified as a biomarker for the diagnosis of cholangiocarcinoma and an indicator of lymph node metastasis. Integrin β6 significantly promoted the proliferation, migration and invasion of cholangiocarcinoma cells. Furthermore, integrin β6 increased Rac1-GTPase, resulting in the upregulation of metalloproteinase-9 (MMP9) and F-actin polymerization. Taken together, our results indicate that integrin β6 promotes tumor invasiveness in a Rac1-dependent manner and is a potential biomarker for tumor metastasis. Integrin β6 may help to improve the diagnostic accuracy, and targeting β6 may be a novel strategy for the treatment of cholangiocarcinoma.
Chemoprevention of 1,2-dimethylhydrazine-induced colonic preneoplastic lesions in Fischer rats by 6-methylsulfinylhexyl isothiocyanate, a wasabi derivative

PubMed Central

KUNO, TOSHIYA; HIROSE, YOSHINOBU; YAMADA, YASUHIRO; IMAIDA, KATSUMI; TATEMATSU, KENJIRO; MORI, YUKIO; MORI, HIDEKI

2010-01-01

The preventive effects of dietary exposure to a wasabi derivative 6-methylsulfinylhexyl isothiocyanate (6-MSITC) during the initiation and post-initiation phases on the development of 1,2-dimethylhydrazine (DMH)-induced colonic aberrant crypt foci (ACF), and β-catenin-accumulated crypts (BCAC) were investigated in male F344 rats. To induce ACF and BCAC, rats were given four weekly subcutaneous injections of DMH (40 mg/kg body weight). The rats also received diets containing 200 or 400 ppm 6-MSITC during the initiation or post-initiation phases. The experiment was terminated 12 weeks after the start. DMH exposure produced a substantial number of ACF (323.8±69.7/colon) and BCAC (3.80±1.05/cm2) at the end of the study. Dietary administration of 6-MSITC at a dose of 400 ppm during the initiation phase caused a significant reduction in the total number of ACF (52% reduction, P<0.0001), larger ACF (4 or more crypt ACF) (58% reduction, P<0.001) and BCAC (76% reduction, P<0.00001). The dietary exposure to 6-MSITC significantly reduced the size (crypt multiplicity) of BCAC during both initiation and post-initiation treatment when compared to group 1 treated with DMH alone. Immunohistochemically, 6-MSITC administration lowered the proliferating cell nuclear antigen labeling index in ACF and BCAC. In addition, protein levels of hepatic cytochrome P-450 isozymes at 24 h after 6-MSITC exposure were significantly suppressed (P<0.01). The results indicated that 6-MSITC exerted chemopreventive effects in the present short-term colon carcinogenesis bioassay, through alterations in cell proliferation activity and drug metabolizing enzyme levels. PMID:22966293
Chemoprevention of 1,2-dimethylhydrazine-induced colonic preneoplastic lesions in Fischer rats by 6-methylsulfinylhexyl isothiocyanate, a wasabi derivative.

PubMed

Kuno, Toshiya; Hirose, Yoshinobu; Yamada, Yasuhiro; Imaida, Katsumi; Tatematsu, Kenjiro; Mori, Yukio; Mori, Hideki

2010-03-01

The preventive effects of dietary exposure to a wasabi derivative 6-methylsulfinylhexyl isothiocyanate (6-MSITC) during the initiation and post-initiation phases on the development of 1,2-dimethylhydrazine (DMH)-induced colonic aberrant crypt foci (ACF), and β-catenin-accumulated crypts (BCAC) were investigated in male F344 rats. To induce ACF and BCAC, rats were given four weekly subcutaneous injections of DMH (40 mg/kg body weight). The rats also received diets containing 200 or 400 ppm 6-MSITC during the initiation or post-initiation phases. The experiment was terminated 12 weeks after the start. DMH exposure produced a substantial number of ACF (323.8±69.7/colon) and BCAC (3.80±1.05/cm(2)) at the end of the study. Dietary administration of 6-MSITC at a dose of 400 ppm during the initiation phase caused a significant reduction in the total number of ACF (52% reduction, P<0.0001), larger ACF (4 or more crypt ACF) (58% reduction, P<0.001) and BCAC (76% reduction, P<0.00001). The dietary exposure to 6-MSITC significantly reduced the size (crypt multiplicity) of BCAC during both initiation and post-initiation treatment when compared to group 1 treated with DMH alone. Immunohistochemically, 6-MSITC administration lowered the proliferating cell nuclear antigen labeling index in ACF and BCAC. In addition, protein levels of hepatic cytochrome P-450 isozymes at 24 h after 6-MSITC exposure were significantly suppressed (P<0.01). The results indicated that 6-MSITC exerted chemopreventive effects in the present short-term colon carcinogenesis bioassay, through alterations in cell proliferation activity and drug metabolizing enzyme levels.
NTP Toxicology and Carcinogenesis Studies of Benzene (CAS No. 71-43-2) in F344/N Rats and B6C3F1 Mice (Gavage Studies).

PubMed

1986-04-01

Benzene ranks 16th in production volume for chemicals produced in the United States, with approximately 9.9 billion pounds being produced in 1984, 9.1 billion pounds in 1983, and 7.8 billion pounds in 1982. This simplest aromatic chemical in used in the synthesis of styrene (polystyrene plastics and synthetic rubber), phenol (phenolic resins), cyclohexane (nylon), aniline, maleic anhydride (polyester resins), alkylbenzenes (detergents), chlorobenzenes, and other products used in the production of drugs, dyes, insecticides, and plastics. Benzene, along with other light, high-octane aromatic hydrocarbons, such as toluene and xylenes, is a component of motor gasoline. Benzene is also used as a solvent, but for most applications, it has been replaced by less hazardous solvents. During the 17-week studies, groups of 10 or 15 male and female F344/N rats and B6C3F1 mice were gavaged 5 days per week with benzene in corn oil (5 ml/kg) at doses of 0 to 600 mg/kg. No benzene-related deaths occurred; in rats that received benzene, final mean body weights were 14%-22% lower compared with vehicle controls and in mice, slight dose-related reductions were observed (less than 10% differences). Doses for the 2-year studies were selected based on clinical observations (tremors in higher dosed mice), on clinical pathologic findings (lymphoid depletion in rats and leukopenia in mice), and on body weight effects. Two-year toxicology and carcinogenesis studies of benzene (greater than 99.7% pure) were conducted in groups of 50 F344/N rats and 50 B6C3F1 mice of each sex and for each dose. Doses of 0, 50, 100, or 200 mg/kg body weight benzene in corn oil (5 ml/kg) were administered by gavage to male rats, 5 days per week, for 103 weeks. Doses of 0, 25, 50, or 100 mg/kg benzene in corn oil were administered by gavage to female rats and to male and female mice for 103 weeks. Ten additional animals in each of the 16 groups were killed at 12 months and necropsies were performed. Hematologic
Carcass and meat quality traits in Nellore and F1 Nellore-Araguaia crosses.

PubMed

Costa, N V; Aboujaoude, C; Vieira, G S; Paiva, V V; Moraes Neto, R A; Gondim, V S; Alves, L R; Torres, M C L; Antunes, R C

2015-05-22

We evaluated and compared carcass traits and meat quality in Nellore cattle and F1 crosses between Nellore and Araguaia, where 17 individuals were from the Nellore group and 19 were ½ Nellore and ½ Araguaia crosses. All animals belonged to the same birth season and were raised in pasture systems under the same nutritional, environmental, and management conditions. When the animals reached slaughter weight, they were taken to an industrial slaughterhouse where food was not provided for 24 h (free access to water); they were then stunned, bled, the leather was removed, and they were eviscerated. The carcasses were weighed (hot weight), kept in chilled storage for approximately 24 h at 4°C, and weighed again to obtain the chilled carcass weight. Carcass yield, carcass length, carcass width, leg length, thigh perimeter, loin eye area (LEA), retail cuts, cooling loss, pH, fat depth, marbling rate, intramuscular fat, color, and shear force were analyzed and sensory analysis of the meat was conducted. Significant differences (P < 0.05) were observed for the following variables: slaughter weight, hot and chilled carcass weights, carcass and leg lengths, thigh perimeter, LEA, retail cuts, and lightness (L*), where the ½ Nellore ½ Araguaia individuals showed higher means for all of these traits, except leg length and L*. Therefore, crossbreeding between Nellore and Araguaia did not affect the meat's sensory characteristics, but contributed to an improvement in carcass traits, providing an alternative for farmers that aim for good meat quality, with a higher meat percentage.
Toxicology and carcinogenesis studies of milk thistle extract (CAS No. 84604-20-6) in F344/N rats and B6C3F1 mice (Feed Studies).

PubMed

2011-05-01

Milk thistle extracts have been used as medicinal herbs in the treatment of liver cirrhosis, chronic hepatitis (liver inflammation), and gallbladder disorders. Treatment claims also include lowering cholesterol levels; reducing insulin resistance; reducing the growth of cancer cells in breast, cervical, and prostate gland cancers; and antiviral activity. Other reported uses of milk thistle in folk medicine include as a treatment for malarial fever, bronchitis, gallstones, jaundice, peritonitis, uterine congestion, varicose veins, and as a milk production stimulant for nursing mothers. The roots soaked in water overnight are used in food, and the despined leaves are added to salads. Roasted milk thistle fruit has been used as a coffee substitute. Milk thistle extract was nominated for study by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences because it is one of the most widely used herbs in the United States. Male and female F344/N rats and B6C3F1 mice were exposed to an ethanol/water extract of milk thistle fruit (milk thistle extract) containing approximately 65% silymarin in feed for 3 months or 2 years. Genetic toxicology studies were conducted in Salmonella typhimurium and Escherichia coli and mouse peripheral blood erythrocytes. 3-MONTH STUDY IN RATS: Groups of 10 male and 10 female rats were fed diets containing 0, 3,125, 6,250, 12,500, 25,000, or 50,000 ppm milk thistle extract (equivalent to average daily doses of approximately 260, 525, 1,050, 2,180, or 4,500 mg milk thistle extract/kilogram body weight to males and 260, 510, 1,050, 2,150, or 4,550 mg/kg to females) for 14 weeks. All rats survived to the end of the study. Mean body weights of exposed groups were within 10% of those of the controls. Feed consumption by exposed and control groups was similar. The sperm motility in 12,500, 25,000, and 50,000 ppm males was decreased by 5%, 11%, and 9%, respectively, relative to that of the controls; the total number of spermatid heads per testis
The 6dF Galaxy Survey: First Data Release

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jones, H.; Saunders, W.; Colless, M.; Read, M.; Parker, Q.; Watson, F.; Campbell, L.

2005-06-01

The 6dF Galaxy Survey (6dFGS) is currently measuring the redshifts of around 170 000 galaxies and the peculiar velocities of a 15 000-member sub-sample. It will be the largest redshift survey of the local universe and more than an order of magnitude larger than any peculiar velocity survey to date. When complete, it will cover essentially the entire southern sky around a mean redshift of z = 0.05. Central to the survey is the Six-Degree Field (6dF) multi-fibre spectrograph, an instrument able to record 150 simultaneous spectra over the 5.7°-field of the UK Schmidt Telescope. Targets have been drawn from the 2MASS Extended Source Catalog (XSC) to include all galaxies brighter than Ktot = 12.75, supplemented by 2MASS and SuperCOSMOS galaxies that complete the sample to limits of (H, J, rF, bJ) = (13.05, 13.75, 15.6, 16.75). Here we describe the implementation of the survey and the procedures used to select sources and determine redshifts. We also describe early results utilising the First Data Release of ˜ 45 000 redshifts. There is an online database of 6dFGS data accessible from the 6dFGS web site (http://www.mso.anu.edu.au/6dFGS).
[Analysis of the results of the 2010 External Quality Control Program of the Spanish Society of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology].

PubMed

Ruiz de Gopegui Bordes, Enrique; Serrano, M del Remedio Guna; Orta Mira, Nieves; Ovies, María Rosario; Poveda, Marta; Cardona, Concepción Gimeno

2011-12-01

The External Quality Control Program of the Spanish Society of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology includes controls for bacteriology, serology, mycology, parasitology, mycobacteria, virology and molecular microbiology. This article presents the most important conclusions and lessons of the 2010 controls. As a whole, the results obtained in 2010 confirm the excellent skill and good technical standards found in previous years. However, erroneous results can be obtained in any laboratory and in clinically relevant determinations. The results of this program highlight the need to implement both internal and external controls to ensure maximal quality of microbiological tests(1). Copyright © 2011 Elsevier España S.L. All rights reserved.
Mode of delivery after successful external cephalic version: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

PubMed

de Hundt, Marcella; Velzel, Joost; de Groot, Christianne J; Mol, Ben W; Kok, Marjolein

2014-06-01

To assess the mode of delivery in women after a successful external cephalic version by performing a systematic review and meta-analysis. We searched MEDLINE, Embase, ClinicalTrials.gov, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, and the Cochrane Library for studies reporting on the mode of delivery in women after successful external cephalic version at term and women with a spontaneous cephalic-presenting fetus. Two reviewers independently selected studies, extracted data, and assessed study quality. The association between mode of delivery and successful external cephalic version was expressed as a common odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval (CI). We identified three cohort studies and eight case-control studies, reporting on 46,641 women. The average cesarean delivery rate for women with a successful external cephalic version was 21%. Women after successful external cephalic version were at increased risk for cesarean delivery for dystocia (odds ratio [OR] 2.2, 95% CI 1.6-3.0), cesarean delivery for fetal distress (OR 2.2, 95% CI 1.6-2.9), and instrumental vaginal delivery (OR 1.4, 95% CI 1.1-1.7). Women who have had a successful external cephalic version for breech presentation are at increased risk for cesarean delivery and instrumental vaginal delivery as compared with women with a spontaneous cephalic presentation. Nevertheless, with a number needed to treat of three, external cephalic version still remains a very efficient procedure to prevent a cesarean delivery.
Uterine Carcinosarcomas: Clinical, Histopathologic and Immunohistochemical Characteristics.

PubMed

Chen, Xiaowei; Arend, Rebecca; Hamele-Bena, Diane; Tergas, Ana I; Hawver, Melanie; Tong, Guo-Xia; Wright, Thomas C; Wright, Jason D

2017-09-01

Carcinosarcomas (malignant mixed Müllerian tumors or MMMT) are rare malignant tumors in the female genital tract composed of both malignant epithelial and malignant mesenchymal components. They comprise <5% of all neoplasms in the gynecologic tract and have an aggressive clinical course. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the immunophenotype and possible histogenesis of carcinosarcomas of the uterus. Sixty-two cases of uterine carcinosarcomas diagnosed between 1995 and 2011 were retrieved from the gynecologic pathology files at Columbia University Medical Center. Representative tissue blocks containing both epithelial and mesenchymal components were selected from each case for histologic and immunohistochemical studies. Clinical data from each case were retrieved. The epithelial component was poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma in the majority (80.7%) of cases; in 17.7%, the carcinoma was moderately differentiated, and in only 1.6% the carcinoma was well differentiated. 53% of the tumors had homologous stromal elements and 47% displayed heterologous stromal elements. Immunohistochemical study revealed almost equal staining in both epithelial and mesenchymal components of carcinosarcomas for p16 and p53. PAX8 positivity was noted in 73% of epithelial components, but only 13% of stromal components, and PAX8 stromal positivity was never seen in the absence of PAX8 epithelial positivity. Expression of p16, p53, and PAX8 in both malignant components lends support to the monoclonal theory of uterine carcinosarcoma tumorigenesis. The roles of these tumor markers in the diagnosis and pathogenesis of this tumor and associations between clinical characteristics, tumor pathologic features, and prognosis are discussed.
RECEPTOR AFFINITY AND PHOSPHODIESTERASES 4B AND 10A ACTIVITY OF OCTAHYDRO- AND 6,7-DIMETHOXY-3,4-DIHYDRO- ISOQUINOLIN-2(1H)-YL-ALKYL DERIVATIVES OF IMIDAZO- AND PYRIMIDINO[2,1-f]PURINES.

PubMed

Zagórska, Agnieszka; Gryzło, Beata; Satała, Grzegorz; Bojarski, Andrzej J; Głuch-Lutwin, Monika; Mordyl, Barbara; Kazek, Grzegorz; Pawłowski, Maciej

2016-01-01

A series of octahydro- and 6,7-dimethoxy-3,4-dihydro- isoquinolin-2(1H)-yl-alkyl derivatives of imidazo- and pyrimidino[2,1-f]purines were synthesized and biologically evaluated in in vitro competition binding experiments for serotonin 5-HT(1A), 5-HT(6), 5-HT(7), and dopamine D2 receptors and inhibitory potencies for phosphodiesterases - PDE4B1 and PDE10A. The structure-activity relationships allowed to determine the structural features responsible for receptor and enzyme activity. Compound 5 (8-(4-(6,7-dimethoxy-3,4-dihydroiso- quinolin-2(1H)butyl)1,3-dimethyl-H-imidazo[2,1-f]purine-2,4(3H,8H)-dione) could be regarded as promising structure for further modification and detailed mechanistic study for obtained hybrid ligands.
Syntheses, crystal structures and Raman spectra of Ba(BF{sub 4})(PF{sub 6}), Ba(BF{sub 4})(AsF{sub 6}) and Ba{sub 2}(BF{sub 4}){sub 2}(AsF{sub 6})(H{sub 3}F{sub 4}); the first examples of metal salts containing simultaneously tetrahedral BF{sub 4}{sup -} and octahedral AF{sub 6}{sup -} anions

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

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

2009-10-15

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

PubMed

Shaw, C D

2000-06-01

This paper is a summary of the operation, findings and conclusions of a European Union project on external peer review techniques, termed 'ExPeRT', to research the scope, mechanisms and use of external quality mechanisms in the improvement of health care. Many of the themes outlined are described in detail in other papers that have been prepared specifically for this issue of The International Journal for Quality in Health Care. Although the emphasis of this project and of this issue of the Journal is on Europe, the conclusions are more widely relevant.
NTP toxicity studies of dimethylaminopropyl chloride, hydrochloride (CAS No. 5407-04-5) administered by Gavage to F344/N rats and B6C3F1 mice.

PubMed

Abdo, Km

2007-07-01

Dimethylaminopropyl chloride, hydrochloride is used primarily as an industrial and research organic chemical intermediate acting as an alkylating reagent in Grignard and other types of reactions. It is also used as a pharmaceutical intermediate for the synthesis of many types of drugs, as an agricultural chemical intermediate, as a photographic chemical intermediate, and as a biochemical reagent for enzyme and other studies. Human occupational or other accidental exposure can occur by inhalation, ingestion, or skin absorption. Male and female F344/N rats and B6C3F1 mice received dimethylaminopropyl chloride, hydrochloride (greater than 99% pure) in water by gavage for 2 weeks or 3 months. Genetic toxicology studies were conducted in Salmonella typhimurium and mouse peripheral blood erythrocytes. In the 2-week toxicity studies, groups of five male and five female F344/N rats and B6C3F1 mice were administered doses of 0, 6.25, 12.5, 25, 50, or 100 mg dimethylaminopropyl chloride, hydrochloride/kg body weight in deionized water by gavage, 5 days per week for 16 days. All dosed male and female rats and mice survived until the end of the 2-week study; one vehicle control female mouse died early. Mean body weights of all dosed groups of rats and mice were similar to those of the vehicle control groups. No gross or microscopic lesions were considered related to dimethylaminopropyl chloride, hydrochloride administration. In the 3-month toxicity studies, groups of 10 male and 10 female F344/N rats and B6C3F1 mice were administered doses of 0, 6.25, 12.5, 25, 50, or 100 mg/kg in deionized water by gavage, 5 days per week for 3 months. One male rat in the 50 mg/kg group died during week 12 of the study, and one female mouse in the 100 mg/kg group died during week 9 and another during week 13. The final mean body weights of 50 mg/kg male rats and 50 mg/kg female mice were significantly less than those of the vehicle controls. Possible chemical-related clinical findings in rats
Academic Staff Views on External Quality Audit: Post Audit Evaluation in a Private Higher Education College

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Shah, Mahsood; Nair, Chenicheri Sid; Stanford, Sue-Ann

2011-01-01

Governments in many countries have funded independent agencies to undertake quality audits of higher education institutions. Such agencies ensure that universities and other higher education providers have effective systems and processes to assure quality assurance in core and support areas. While external quality audits have been in place for a…
The cyanobacterial cytochrome b6f subunit PetP adopts an SH3 fold in solution.

PubMed

Veit, Sebastian; Nagadoi, Aritaka; Rögner, Matthias; Rexroth, Sascha; Stoll, Raphael; Ikegami, Takahisa

2016-06-01

PetP is a peripheral subunit of the cytochrome b(6)f complex (b(6)f) present in both, cyanobacteria and red algae. It is bound to the cytoplasmic surface of this membrane protein complex where it greatly affects the efficiency of the linear photosynthetic electron flow although it is not directly involved in the electron transfer reactions. Despite the crystal structures of the b(6)f core complex, structural information for the transient regulatory b(6)f subunits is still missing. Here we present the first structure of PetP at atomic resolution as determined by solution NMR. The protein adopts an SH3 fold, which is a common protein motif in eukaryotes but comparatively rare in prokaryotes. The structure of PetP enabled the identification of the potential interaction site for b(6)f binding by conservation mapping. The interaction surface is mainly formed by two large loop regions and one short 310 helix which also exhibit an increased flexibility as indicated by heteronuclear steady-state {(1)H}-(15)N NOE and random coil index parameters. The properties of this potential b(6)f binding site greatly differ from the canonical peptide binding site which is highly conserved in eukaryotic SH3 domains. Interestingly, three other proteins of the photosynthetic electron transport chain share this SH3 fold with PetP: NdhS of the photosynthetic NADH dehydrogenase-like complex (NDH-1), PsaE of the photosystem 1 and subunit α of the ferredoxin-thioredoxin reductase have, similar to PetP, a great impact on the photosynthetic electron transport. Finally, a model is presented to illustrate how SH3 domains modulate the photosynthetic electron transport processes in cyanobacteria. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Synthesis and X-ray structural investigation of (5R*,6S*)-1-benzoyl-5-methylthio-6-methoxy-1-azapenam

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Krajewski, J. W.; Gluziński, P.; Grochowski, E.; Pupek, K.; Mishnyov, A.; Kemme, A.

1992-08-01

The compound (5R*,6S*)-1-benzoyl-5-methylthio-6-methoxy-1-azapenam ( 3) has been synthesized and its structure investigated by X-ray diffraction. The compound crystallizes in a monoclinic system, space group Cc, Z = 4, a = 12.01(1), b = 16.51(1), c = 8.048(6) Å, β = 115.87(6)°. The structure was solved by direct methods and refined by a full-matrix, least-squares procedure to give R = 0.070, Rw = 0.046, w = 1.34/(σ 2F). The expected cis configuration around the β-lactam ring was fully confirmed.
Electron impact elastic and excitation cross-sections of the isomers of C4F6 molecule for plasma modeling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gupta, Dhanoj; Song, Mi-Young; Baluja, K. L.; Choi, Heechol; Yoon, Jung-Sik

2018-06-01

We report the calculations of elastic (along with its symmetry components) and electronic excitation cross sections by electron impact of the three isomers of C4F6, namely, hexafluoro-1,3-butadiene (1,3-C4F6), hexafluoro-2-butyne (2-C4F6), and hexafluorocyclobutene (c-C4F6) belonging to the point groups C2, D3d, and C2v, respectively, using the R-matrix approach. The electron energy range is from 0.01 eV to 12 eV. We have employed the cc-pVTZ basis set for C and F atoms to generate self-consistent field molecular orbitals to construct the target states for all the isomers included in our calculations. All the target states are constructed by including correlation effects in a configuration interaction (CI) approach. The target properties such as vertical excitation energies and dipole moment of all the isomers are in reasonable agreement with the literature values. Differences in the cross sections of these isomers are strongly influenced by the effect of correlation and polarization effects and their geometrical extent. We have included the ground state and many excited states of each isomer in the trial wave function of the entire scattering system. The resulting elastic cross sections are compared with the available experimental results. The agreement is reasonably good for energies above 5 eV. The shape resonances detected at 2.57, 2.95, and 3.20 eV for c-C4F6, 1,3-C4F6, and 2-C4F6 isomers are associated with the negative anion formation of C3F3- as observed in the mass spectrometry experiments. We have also performed 1-state CI calculation for all the isomers that include only the correlated ground state. The position of resonances shifts to lower energies as the number of target states is increased compared to 1-state calculation for all the isomers. The elastic cross section for 2-C4F6 isomer is larger than the other isomers because of its larger spatial extent. The present cross section data are important for plasma simulation and modeling, especially

Comparative assessment of 6-[18 F]fluoro-L-m-tyrosine and 6-[18 F]fluoro-L-dopa to evaluate dopaminergic presynaptic integrity in a Parkinson's disease rat model.

PubMed

Becker, Guillaume; Bahri, Mohamed Ali; Michel, Anne; Hustadt, Fabian; Garraux, Gaëtan; Luxen, André; Lemaire, Christian; Plenevaux, Alain

2017-05-01

Because of the progressive loss of nigro-striatal dopaminergic terminals in Parkinson's disease (PD), in vivo quantitative imaging of dopamine (DA) containing neurons in animal models of PD is of critical importance in the preclinical evaluation of highly awaited disease-modifying therapies. Among existing methods, the high sensitivity of positron emission tomography (PET) is attractive to achieve that goal. The aim of this study was to perform a quantitative comparison of brain images obtained in 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) lesioned rats using two dopaminergic PET radiotracers, namely [ 18 F]fluoro-3,4-dihydroxyphenyl-L-alanine ([ 18 F]FDOPA) and 6-[ 18 F]fluoro-L-m-tyrosine ([ 18 F]FMT). Because the imaging signal is theoretically less contaminated by metabolites, we hypothesized that the latter would show stronger relationship with behavioural and post-mortem measures of striatal dopaminergic deficiency. We used a within-subject design to measure striatal [ 18 F]FMT and [ 18 F]FDOPA uptake in eight partially lesioned, eight fully lesioned and ten sham-treated rats. Animals were pretreated with an L-aromatic amino acid decarboxylase inhibitor. A catechol-O-methyl transferase inhibitor was also given before [ 18 F]FDOPA PET. Quantitative estimates of striatal uptake were computed using conventional graphical Patlak method. Striatal dopaminergic deficiencies were measured with apomorphine-induced rotations and post-mortem striatal DA content. We observed a strong relationship between [ 18 F]FMT and [ 18 F]FDOPA estimates of decreased uptake in the denervated striatum using the tissue-derived uptake rate constant K c . However, only [ 18 F]FMT K c succeeded to discriminate between the partial and the full 6-OHDA lesion and correlated well with the post-mortem striatal DA content. This study indicates that the [ 18 F]FMT could be more sensitive, with respect of [ 18 F]FDOPA, to investigate DA terminals loss in 6-OHDA rats, and open the way to in vivo L
The Introduction of External Quality Assurance in South African Higher Education: An Analysis of Stakeholder Response

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Luckett, Kathy

2007-01-01

This paper analyses the take-up of proposals for a national quality assurance system in South Africa using different approaches to quality assurance to classify stakeholder responses to survey and interview questions. The context of the study was the introduction of an external quality assurance system for South African higher education by an…
Fast preparation of a long chimeric armored RNA as controls for external quality assessment for molecular detection of Zika virus.

PubMed

Lin, Guigao; Zhang, Kuo; Zhang, Dong; Han, Yanxi; Xie, Jiehong; Li, Jinming

2017-03-01

The emergence of Zika virus demands accurate laboratory diagnostics. Nucleic acid testing is currently the definitive method for diagnosis of Zika infection. In 2016, an external quality assurance (EQA) for assessing the quality of molecular testing of Zika virus was carried out in China. A single armored RNA encapsulating a 4942-nucleotides (nt) long specific RNA sequence of Zika virus was prepared and used as positive samples. A pre-tested EQA panel, consisting of 4 negative and 6 positive samples with different concentrations of armored RNA, was distributed to 38 laboratories that perform molecular detection of Zika virus. A total of 39 data sets (1 laboratory used two test kits in parallel), produced by using commercial (n=38) or laboratory developed (n=1) quantitative reverse-transcriptase PCR (qRT-PCR) kits, were received. Of these, 35 (89.7%) had correct results for all 10 samples, and 4 (10.3%) reported at least 1 error (11 in total). The testing errors were all false-negatives, highlighting the need of improvements in detecting sensitivity. The EQA reveals that the majority of participating laboratories are proficient in molecular testing of Zika virus. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Morphological and immunohistochemical diversity of endometrial stromal sarcoma in rats.

PubMed

Kumabe, Shino; Sato, Junko; Tomonari, Yuki; Takahashi, Miwa; Inoue, Kaoru; Yoshida, Midori; Doi, Takuya; Wako, Yumi; Tsuchitani, Minoru

2018-04-01

To clarify the histopathological characteristics of rat endometrial stromal sarcoma (ESS), we morphologically reviewed 12 malignant uterine tumors protruding into the lumen in previous rat carcinogenicity studies. The 12 cases were classified into the following 6 types based on their morphological features: spindle cell and collagen rich type, pleomorphic/spindle cell and compact type, decidual alteration type, histiocytic and multinucleated giant cell mixture type, Antoni A-type schwannoma type, and Antoni B-type schwannoma type. Immunohistochemically, tumor cells in all cases exhibited focal or diffuse positive reactions for vimentin, and 11 of the 12 cases were positive for S-100. Interestingly, 9 cases were positive for desmin or αSMA, indicating tumor cells expressing smooth muscle properties. Both Antoni A- and B-type schwannoma types showed low reactions for both muscle markers. Positive results for estrogen receptor α in the 11 cases suggested that they were derived from endometrial stromal cells. On the basis of their immunohistochemical profiles, they were considered to be derived from endometrial stromal cells while they showed morphological variation. The detection of a basement membrane surrounding tumor cells might not be a definitive indicator for differential diagnosis of ESS from malignant schwannoma. In conclusion, ESS could exhibit wide morphological and immunohistochemical variation including features of schwannoma or smooth muscle tumor.
Immunohistochemical analysis of the distribution of desmoglein 1 and 2 in the skin of dogs and cats.

PubMed

Miragliotta, Vincenzo; Coli, Alessandra; Ricciardi, Maria P; Podestà, Adriano; Abramo, Francesca

2005-11-01

To compare the distribution of desmoglein (Dsg) 1 and 2 in skin specimens obtained from dogs and cats to provide information about the possible role of the density of Dsg 1 and 2 in the localization of lesions attributable to pemphigus foliaceus in these 2 species. Skin biopsy specimens obtained from 4 dogs and 4 cats. Biopsy specimens were collected from the muzzle, bridge of the nose, ear, dorsum, abdomen, area adjacent to the teats, and footpads of each animal. Immunohistochemical analysis was performed on formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded skin samples by use of a biotinylated mouse monoclonal anti-Dsg 1 and 2 antibody raised against bovine muzzle. Color development was performed by use of the streptavidin-biotin-peroxidase method with a chromogenic substrate. Immunohistochemical staining yielded a positive reaction in skin samples obtained from all anatomic sites. The intensity and distribution of staining were related to the number of layers of the stratum spinosum. No differences were detected between samples obtained from dogs and cats. No differences in intensity of Dsg 1 and 2 antigen were observed in the stratum spinosum between skin samples obtained from dogs and cats. Analysis of this result suggests that factors other than the distribution of Dsg may be responsible for the differences in localization of primary clinical lesions in dogs and cats with pemphigus foliaceus.
Development of an evidence-based approach to external quality assurance for breast cancer hormone receptor immunohistochemistry: comparison of reference values.

PubMed

Makretsov, Nikita; Gilks, C Blake; Alaghehbandan, Reza; Garratt, John; Quenneville, Louise; Mercer, Joel; Palavdzic, Dragana; Torlakovic, Emina E

2011-07-01

External quality assurance and proficiency testing programs for breast cancer predictive biomarkers are based largely on traditional ad hoc design; at present there is no universal consensus on definition of a standard reference value for samples used in external quality assurance programs. To explore reference values for estrogen receptor and progesterone receptor immunohistochemistry in order to develop an evidence-based analytic platform for external quality assurance. There were 31 participating laboratories, 4 of which were previously designated as "expert" laboratories. Each participant tested a tissue microarray slide with 44 breast carcinomas for estrogen receptor and progesterone receptor and submitted it to the Canadian Immunohistochemistry Quality Control Program for analysis. Nuclear staining in 1% or more of the tumor cells was a positive score. Five methods for determining reference values were compared. All reference values showed 100% agreement for estrogen receptor and progesterone receptor scores, when indeterminate results were excluded. Individual laboratory performance (agreement rates, test sensitivity, test specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and κ value) was very similar for all reference values. Identification of suboptimal performance by all methods was identical for 30 of 31 laboratories. Estrogen receptor assessment of 1 laboratory was discordant: agreement was less than 90% for 3 of 5 reference values and greater than 90% with the use of 2 other reference values. Various reference values provide equivalent laboratory rating. In addition to descriptive feedback, our approach allows calculation of technical test sensitivity and specificity, positive and negative predictive values, agreement rates, and κ values to guide corrective actions.
Tribulus terrestris Alters the Expression of Growth Differentiation Factor 9 and Bone Morphogenetic Protein 15 in Rabbit Ovaries of Mothers and F1 Female Offspring.

PubMed

Abadjieva, Desislava; Kistanova, Elena

2016-01-01

Although previous research has demonstrated the key role of the oocyte-derived factors, bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) 15 and growth differentiation factor (GDF) 9, in follicular development and ovulation, there is a lack of knowledge on the impact of external factors, which females are exposed to during folliculogenesis, on their expression. The present study investigated the effect of the aphrodisiac Tribulus terrestris on the GDF9 and BMP15 expression in the oocytes and cumulus cells at mRNA and protein levels during folliculogenesis in two generations of female rabbits. The experiment was conducted with 28 New Zealand rabbits. Only the diet of the experimental mothers group was supplemented with a dry extract of T. terrestris for the 45 days prior to insemination. The expression of BMP15 and GDF9 genes in the oocytes and cumulus cells of mothers and F1 female offspring was analyzed using real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). The localization of the GDF9 and BMP15 proteins in the ovary tissues was determined by immunohistochemical analysis. The BMP15 and GDF9 transcripts were detected in the oocytes and cumulus cells of rabbits from all groups. T. terrestris caused a decrease in the BMP15 mRNA level in the oocytes and an increase in the cumulus cells. The GDF9 mRNA level increased significantly in both oocytes and cumulus cells. The downregulated expression of BMP15 in the treated mothers' oocytes was inherited in the F1 female offspring born to treated mothers. BMP15 and GDF9 show a clearly expressed sensitivity to the bioactive compounds of T. terrestris.
Tribulus terrestris Alters the Expression of Growth Differentiation Factor 9 and Bone Morphogenetic Protein 15 in Rabbit Ovaries of Mothers and F1 Female Offspring

PubMed Central

2016-01-01

Although previous research has demonstrated the key role of the oocyte-derived factors, bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) 15 and growth differentiation factor (GDF) 9, in follicular development and ovulation, there is a lack of knowledge on the impact of external factors, which females are exposed to during folliculogenesis, on their expression. The present study investigated the effect of the aphrodisiac Tribulus terrestris on the GDF9 and BMP15 expression in the oocytes and cumulus cells at mRNA and protein levels during folliculogenesis in two generations of female rabbits. The experiment was conducted with 28 New Zealand rabbits. Only the diet of the experimental mothers group was supplemented with a dry extract of T. terrestris for the 45 days prior to insemination. The expression of BMP15 and GDF9 genes in the oocytes and cumulus cells of mothers and F1 female offspring was analyzed using real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). The localization of the GDF9 and BMP15 proteins in the ovary tissues was determined by immunohistochemical analysis. The BMP15 and GDF9 transcripts were detected in the oocytes and cumulus cells of rabbits from all groups. T. terrestris caused a decrease in the BMP15 mRNA level in the oocytes and an increase in the cumulus cells. The GDF9 mRNA level increased significantly in both oocytes and cumulus cells. The downregulated expression of BMP15 in the treated mothers’ oocytes was inherited in the F1 female offspring born to treated mothers. BMP15 and GDF9 show a clearly expressed sensitivity to the bioactive compounds of T. terrestris. PMID:26928288
Crystal Structures of An F420-Dependent Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase Fgd1 Involved in the Activation of the Anti-Tb Drug Candidate Pa-824 Reveal the Basis of Coenzyme And Substrate Binding

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

Bashiri, G.; Squire, C.J.; Moreland, N.J.

2009-05-11

The modified flavin coenzyme F{sub 420} is found in a restricted number of microorganisms. It is widely distributed in mycobacteria, however, where it is important in energy metabolism, and in Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) is implicated in redox processes related to non-replicating persistence. In Mtb, the F{sub 420}-dependent glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase FGD1 provides reduced F{sub 420} for the in vivo activation of the nitroimidazopyran prodrug PA-824, currently being developed for anti-tuberculosis therapy against both replicating and persistent bacteria. The structure of M. tuberculosis FGD1 has been determined by x-ray crystallography both in its apo state and in complex with F{sub 420} andmore » citrate at resolutions of 1.90 and 1.95{angstrom}, respectively. The structure reveals a highly specific F{sub 420} binding mode, which is shared with several other F{sub 420}-dependent enzymes. Citrate occupies the substrate binding pocket adjacent to F{sub 420} and is shown to be a competitive inhibitor (IC{sub 50} 43 {micro}m). Modeling of the binding of the glucose 6-phosphate (G6P) substrate identifies a positively charged phosphate binding pocket and shows that G6P, like citrate, packs against the isoalloxazine moiety of F{sub 420} and helps promote a butterfly bend conformation that facilitates F{sub 420} reduction and catalysis.« less
Internal steel structure of M2-F1

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1963-01-01

The internal steel structure for the M2-F1 was built at the Flight Research Center (predecessor of the Dryden Flight Research Center, Edwards, CA) in a section of the calibration hangar dubbed 'Wright Bicycle Shop.' Visible are the stick, rudder pedals, and ejection seat. The external wooden shell was attached to the steel structure. The wingless, lifting body aircraft design was initially conceived as a means of landing an aircraft horizontally after atmospheric reentry. The absence of wings would make the extreme heat of re-entry less damaging to the vehicle. In 1962, Dryden management approved a program to build a lightweight, unpowered lifting body as a prototype to flight test the wingless concept. It would look like a 'flying bathtub,' and was designated the M2-F1, the 'M' referring to 'manned' and 'F' referring to 'flight' version. It featured a plywood shell placed over a tubular steel frame crafted at Dryden. Construction was completed in 1963. The first flight tests of the M2-F1 were over Rogers Dry Lake at the end of a tow rope attached to a hopped-up Pontiac convertible driven at speeds up to about 120 mph. This vehicle needed to be able to tow the M2-F1 on the Rogers Dry Lakebed adjacent to NASA's Flight Research Center (FRC) at a minimum speed of 100 miles per hour. To do that, it had to handle the 400-pound pull of the M2-F1. Walter 'Whitey' Whiteside, who was a retired Air Force maintenance officer working in the FRC's Flight Operations Division, was a dirt-bike rider and hot-rodder. Together with Boyden 'Bud' Bearce in the Procurement and Supply Branch of the FRC, Whitey acquired a Pontiac Catalina convertible with the largest engine available. He took the car to Bill Straup's renowned hot-rod shop near Long Beach for modification. With a special gearbox and racing slicks, the Pontiac could tow the 1,000-pound M2-F1 110 miles per hour in 30 seconds. It proved adequate for the roughly 400 car tows that got the M2-F1 airborne to prove it could fly
Hexavalent Chromium Is Carcinogenic to F344/N Rats and B6C3F1 Mice after Chronic Oral Exposure

PubMed Central

Stout, Matthew D.; Herbert, Ronald A.; Kissling, Grace E.; Collins, Bradley J.; Travlos, Gregory S.; Witt, Kristine L.; Melnick, Ronald L.; Abdo, Kamal M.; Malarkey, David E.; Hooth, Michelle J.

2009-01-01

Background Hexavalent chromium [Cr(VI)] is a human carcinogen after inhalation exposure. Humans also ingest Cr(VI) from contaminated drinking water and soil; however, limited data exist on the oral toxicity and carcinogenicity of Cr(VI). Objective We characterized the chronic oral toxicity and carcinogenicity of Cr(VI) in rodents. Methods The National Toxicology Program (NTP) conducted 2-year drinking water studies of Cr(VI) (as sodium dichromate dihydrate) in male and female F344/N rats and B6C3F1 mice. Results Cr(VI) exposure resulted in increased incidences of rare neoplasms of the squamous epithelium that lines the oral cavity (oral mucosa and tongue) in male and female rats, and of the epithelium lining the small intestine in male and female mice. Cr(VI) exposure did not affect survival but resulted in reduced mean body weights and water consumption, due at least in part to poor palatability of the dosed water. Cr(VI) exposure resulted in transient microcytic hypochromic anemia in rats and microcytosis in mice. Nonneoplastic lesions included diffuse epithelial hyperplasia in the duodenum and jejunum of mice and histiocytic cell infiltration in the duodenum, liver, and mesenteric and pancreatic lymph nodes of rats and mice. Conclusions Cr(VI) was carcinogenic after administration in drinking water to male and female rats and mice. PMID:19479012
Lack of grading agreement among international hemostasis external quality assessment programs

PubMed Central

Olson, John D.; Jennings, Ian; Meijer, Piet; Bon, Chantal; Bonar, Roslyn; Favaloro, Emmanuel J.; Higgins, Russell A.; Keeney, Michael; Mammen, Joy; Marlar, Richard A.; Meley, Roland; Nair, Sukesh C.; Nichols, William L.; Raby, Anne; Reverter, Joan C.; Srivastava, Alok; Walker, Isobel

2018-01-01

Laboratory quality programs rely on internal quality control and external quality assessment (EQA). EQA programs provide unknown specimens for the laboratory to test. The laboratory's result is compared with other (peer) laboratories performing the same test. EQA programs assign target values using a variety of methods statistical tools and performance assessment of ‘pass’ or ‘fail’ is made. EQA provider members of the international organization, external quality assurance in thrombosis and hemostasis, took part in a study to compare outcome of performance analysis using the same data set of laboratory results. Eleven EQA organizations using eight different analytical approaches participated. Data for a normal and prolonged activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) and a normal and reduced factor VIII (FVIII) from 218 laboratories were sent to the EQA providers who analyzed the data set using their method of evaluation for aPTT and FVIII, determining the performance for each laboratory record in the data set. Providers also summarized their statistical approach to assignment of target values and laboratory performance. Each laboratory record in the data set was graded pass/fail by all EQA providers for each of the four analytes. There was a lack of agreement of pass/fail grading among EQA programs. Discordance in the grading was 17.9 and 11% of normal and prolonged aPTT results, respectively, and 20.2 and 17.4% of normal and reduced FVIII results, respectively. All EQA programs in this study employed statistical methods compliant with the International Standardization Organization (ISO), ISO 13528, yet the evaluation of laboratory results for all four analytes showed remarkable grading discordance. PMID:29232255
AIR QUALITY CRITERIA FOR PARTICULATE MATTER, VOLUMES I-III, (EXTERNAL REVIEW DRAFT, 1995)

EPA Science Inventory

There is no abstract available for these documents.

If further information is requested, please refer to the bibliographic citation and contact the Technical Information Staff at the number listed above.
- Air Quality Criteria for Particulate Matter, Volume I, Extern...
- Design, synthesis and luminescence properties of Ba2 YB2 O6 Cl- and Ba2 YB2 O6 F-based phosphors.
  
  PubMed
  
  Chen, Wanping; Yang, Xin; Liu, Yan; Dai, Xiaoyan
  
  2015-05-01
  
  Using a high-temperature solid-state reaction, the chlorine in Ba2 YB2 O6 Cl is gradually replaced by F, and a new compound with the nominal chemical formula Ba2 YB2 O6 F and two phosphors doped with Ce(3+) and Eu(3+) , respectively, are obtained. X-Ray diffraction and photoluminescence spectroscopy are used to characterize the as-synthesized samples. The as-synthesized Ba2 YB2 O6 Cl exhibits bright blue emission in the spectral range ~ 330-410 nm with a maximum around 363 nm under X-ray or UV excitation. Ba2 YB2 O6 F:0.01Ce(3+) exhibits blue emission in the range ~ 340-570 nm with a maximum around 383 nm. Ba2 YB2 O6 F:0.01Eu(3+) exhibits a predominantly (5) D0 -(7) F2 emission (~610 nm) and the relative intensities of the (5) D0 -(7) F0,1,2 emissions are tunable under different wavelength UV excitation. The luminescence behaviors of the two phosphors are explained simply in terms of the host composition and site occupancy probability of Ce(3+) and Eu(3+) , respectively. The results indicate that these phosphors have potential application as a blue phosphor or as a red phosphor. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
- Associations of Perceived Sibling and Parent-Child Relationship Quality with Internalizing and Externalizing Problems: Comparing Indian and Dutch Early Adolescents
  
  ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
  
  Buist, Kirsten L.; Verhoeven, Marjolein; Hoksbergen, René; ter Laak, Jan; Watve, Sujala; Paranjpe, Analpa
  
  2017-01-01
  
  The aims of the present study were (a) to examine whether Dutch and Indian early adolescents differ concerning sibling and parent-child relationship quality and externalizing and internalizing problems, and (b) to compare the associations between sibling and parent-child relationship quality and externalizing and internalizing problems for Indian…
- Imaging cellular pharmacokinetics of 18F-FDG and 6-NBDG uptake by inflammatory and stem cells.
  
  PubMed
  
  Zaman, Raiyan T; Tuerkcan, Silvan; Mahmoudi, Morteza; Saito, Toshinobu; Yang, Phillip C; Chin, Frederick T; McConnell, Michael V; Xing, Lei
  
  2018-01-01
  
  Myocardial infarction (MI) causes significant loss of cardiomyocytes, myocardial tissue damage, and impairment of myocardial function. The inability of cardiomyocytes to proliferate prevents the heart from self-regeneration. The treatment for advanced heart failure following an MI is heart transplantation despite the limited availability of the organs. Thus, stem-cell-based cardiac therapies could ultimately prevent heart failure by repairing injured myocardium that reverses cardiomyocyte loss. However, stem-cell-based therapies lack understanding of the mechanisms behind a successful therapy, including difficulty tracking stem cells to provide information on cell migration, proliferation and differentiation. In this study, we have investigated the interaction between different types of stem and inflammatory cells and cell-targeted imaging molecules, 18F-FDG and 6-NBDG, to identify uptake patterns and pharmacokinetics in vitro. Macrophages (both M1 and M2), human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs), and human amniotic mesenchymal stem cells (hAMSCs) were incubated with either 18F-FDG or 6-NBDG. Excess radiotracer and fluorescence were removed and a 100 μm-thin CdWO4 scintillator plate was placed on top of the cells for radioluminescence microscopy imaging of 18F-FDG uptake, while no scintillator was needed for fluorescence imaging of 6-NBDG uptake. Light produced following beta decay was imaged with a highly sensitive inverted microscope (LV200, Olympus) and an Electron Multiplying Charge-Couple Device (EM-CCD) camera. Custom-written software was developed in MATLAB for image processing. The average cellular activity of 18F-FDG in a single cell of hAMSCs (0.670±0.028 fCi/μm2, P = 0.001) was 20% and 36% higher compared to uptake in hiPSCs (0.540±0.026 fCi/μm2, P = 0.003) and macrophages (0.430±0.023 fCi/μm2, P = 0.002), respectively. hAMSCs exhibited the slowest influx (0.210 min-1) but the fastest efflux (0.327 min-1) rate compared to the other tested
- Simultaneous immunohistochemical expression of HBME-1 and galectin-3 differentiates papillary carcinomas from hyperfunctioning lesions of the thyroid.
  
  PubMed
  
  Rossi, E D; Raffaelli, M; Mule', A; Miraglia, A; Lombardi, C P; Vecchio, F M; Fadda, G
  
  2006-06-01
  
  The histological diagnosis is critical for the postsurgical management and follow-up of thyroid malignancies. The differential diagnosis between papillary carcinoma and hyperfunctioning lesions, either with papillary hyperplasia or with a follicular architecture, can create real diagnostic difficulty. The aim of this study was to evaluate the expression of several antibodies considered to be markers of malignancy in malignant and hyperfunctioning thyroid neoplasms and to include the most effective of them in a diagnostic panel. One hundred resected thyroid nodules--58 hyperfunctioning benign lesions and 42 papillary carcinomas (14 follicular variant, 14 macrofollicular variant and 14 classic type)--were immunohistochemically studied for HBME-1, galectin-3, cytokeratin (CK) 19 and RET-proto-oncogene. HBME-1 and galectin-3 showed 92.8% and 89% sensitivity, respectively, and their coexpression was present in 36 out of 42 papillary carcinomas (85.7%) and absent in non-malignant lesions. Their association increased sensitivity to 94.7% and the diagnostic accuracy to 97.9% and involved the highest number of cases (95%) in comparison with two other panels including, respectively, three (HBME-1, galectin-3, CK19) and all four antibodies. An immunohistochemical panel consisting of HBME-1 and galectin-3 can make a correct distinction between malignant and hyperfunctioning thyroid neoplasms with high diagnostic accuracy.
- Genistein modulation of streptozotocin diabetes in male B6C3F1 mice can be induced by diet
  
  DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)
  
  Guo, Tai L., E-mail: tlguo1@uga.edu; Wang, Yunbiao; Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecology and Environment, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun 130102
  
  Diet and phytoestrogens affect the development and progression of diabetes. The objective of the present study was to determine if oral exposure to phytoestrogen genistein (GE) by gavage changed blood glucose levels (BGL) through immunomodulation in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic male B6C3F1 mice fed with three different diets. These three diets were: NTP-2000 diet (NTP), soy- and alfalfa-free 5K96 diet (SOF) and high fat diet (HFD) with 60% of kcal from fat, primarily rendered fat of swine. The dosing regimen for STZ consisted of three 100 mg/kg doses (i.p.): the first dose was administered at approximately 2 weeks following the initiationmore » of daily GE (20 mg/kg) gavage, and the second dose was on day 19 following the first dose, and the third dose was on day 57 following the first dose. In mice on the NTP diet, GE treatment decreased BGL with statistical significances observed on days 33 and 82 following the first STZ injection. In mice fed the HFD diet, GE treatment produced a significant decrease and a significant increase in BGL on days 15 and 89 following the first STZ injection, respectively. In mice fed the SOF diet, GE treatment had no significant effects on BGL. Although GE treatment affected phenotypic distributions of both splenocytes (T cells, B cells, natural killer cells and neutrophils) and thymocytes (CD4/CD8 and CD44/CD25), and their mitochondrial transmembrane potential and generation of reactive oxygen species, indicators of cell death (possibly apoptosis), GE modulation of neutrophils was more consistent with its diabetogenic or anti-diabetic potentials. The differential effects of GE on BGL in male B6C3F1 mice fed with three different diets with varied phytoestrogen contents suggest that the estrogenic properties of this compound may contribute to its modulation of diabetes. - Highlights: • Diets affected streptozotocin-induced diabetes in male B6C3F1 mice. • Genistein modulation of streptozotocin diabetes can be induced by
- ¹¹¹In-anti-F4/80-A3-1 antibody: a novel tracer to image macrophages.
  
  PubMed
  
  Terry, Samantha Y A; Boerman, Otto C; Gerrits, Danny; Franssen, Gerben M; Metselaar, Josbert M; Lehmann, Steffi; Oyen, Wim J G; Gerdes, Christian A; Abiraj, Keelara
  
  2015-08-01
  
  Here, the expression of F4/80 on the cell surface of murine macrophages was exploited to develop a novel imaging tracer that could visualize macrophages in vivo. The immunoreactive fraction and IC50 of anti-F4/80-A3-1, conjugated with diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (DTPA) and radiolabelled with (111)In, were determined in vitro using murine bone marrow-derived macrophages. In vivo biodistribution studies were performed with (111)In-anti-F4/80-A3-1 and isotype-matched control antibody (111)In-rat IgG2b at 24 and 72 h post-injection (p.i.) in SCID/Beige mice bearing orthotopic MDA-MB-231 xenografts. In some studies mice were also treated with liposomal clodronate. Macrophage content in tissues was determined immunohistochemically. Micro-single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT)/CT images were also acquired. In vitro binding assays showed that (111)In-anti-F4/80-A3-1 specifically binds F4/80 receptor-positive macrophages. The immunoreactivity of anti-F4/80-A3-1 was 75 % and IC50 was 0.58 nM. In vivo, injection of 10 or 100 μg (111)In-anti-F4/80-A3-1 resulted in splenic uptake of 78 %ID/g and 31 %ID/g, respectively, and tumour uptake of 1.38 %ID/g and 4.08 %ID/g, respectively (72 h p.i.). Liposomal clodronate treatment reduced splenic uptake of 10 μg (111)In-anti-F4/80-A3-1 from 248 %ID/g to 114 %ID/g and reduced (111)In-anti-F4/80-A3-1 uptake in the liver and femur (24 h p.i.). Tracer retention in the blood and tumour uptake increased (24 h p.i.). Tumour uptake of (111)In-anti-F4/80-A3-1 was visualized by microSPECT/CT. Macrophage density in the spleen and liver decreased in mice treated with liposomal clodronate. Uptake of (111)In-rat IgG2b was lower in the spleen, liver and femur when compared to (111)In-anti-F4/80-A3-1. Radiolabelled anti-F4/80-A3-1 antibodies specifically localize in tissues infiltrated by macrophages in mice and can be used to visualize tumours. The liver and spleen act as antigen sink organs for macrophage-specific tracers.
- Inhibitory Effects of (2'R)-2',3'-dihydro-2'-(1-hydroxy-1-methylethyl)-2,6'-bibenzofuran-6,4'-diol on Mushroom Tyrosinase and Melanogenesis in B16-F10 Melanoma Cells.
  
  PubMed
  
  Zhu, Jing-Jie; Yan, Gui-Rui; Xu, Zhi-Jian; Hu, Xiao; Wang, Gai-Hong; Wang, Ting; Zhu, Wei-Liang; Hou, Ai-Jun; Wang, He-Yao
  
  2015-07-01
  
  (2'R)-2',3'-Dihydro-2'-(1-hydroxy-1-methylethyl)-2,6'-bibenzofuran-6,4'-diol (DHMB) is a natural compound extracted from Morus notabilis. It was found that DHMB acts as a competitive inhibitor against mushroom tyrosinase with a Ki value of 14.77 μM. Docking results further indicated that it could form strong interactions with one copper ion with a distance of 2.7 Å, suggesting the mechanism of inhibition might be due to chelating copper ions in the active site. Furthermore, melanin production in B16-F10 murine melanoma cells was significantly inhibited by DHMB in a concentration-dependent manner without cytotoxicity. The results of western blotting also showed that DHMB decreased 3-isobuty-1-methxlzanthine-induced mature tyrosinase expression. Taken together, these findings indicated that DHMB may be a new promising pigmentation-altering agent for agriculture, cosmetic, and therapeutic applications. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Immunohistochemical identification of messenger RNA-related proteins in basophilic inclusions of adult-onset atypical motor neuron disease.

PubMed

Fujita, Kengo; Ito, Hidefumi; Nakano, Satoshi; Kinoshita, Yoshimi; Wate, Reika; Kusaka, Hirofumi

2008-10-01

This report concerns an immunohistochemical investigation on RNA-related proteins in the basophilic inclusions (BIs) from patients with adult-onset atypical motor neuron disease. Formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded sections of the motor cortex and the lumbar spinal cord were examined. The BIs appeared blue in color with H&E and Nissl stain, and pink with methylgreen-pyronin stain. Ribonuclease pretreatment abolished the methylgreen-pyronin staining, suggesting that the BIs contained RNA. Immunohistochemically, the BIs were distinctly labeled with the antibodies against poly(A)-binding protein 1, T cell intracellular antigen 1, and ribosomal protein S6. These proteins are essential constituents of stress granules. In contrast, the BIs were not immunoreactive for ribosomal protein L28 and decapping enzyme 1, which are core components of transport ribonucleoprotein particles and processing bodies, respectively. Moreover, the BIs were not immunopositive for TDP-43. Our results imply that translation attenuation could be involved in the processes of BI formation in this disorder.
Systematic immunohistochemical screening for Lynch syndrome in colorectal cancer: a single centre experience of 486 patients.

PubMed

Zumstein, Valentin; Vinzens, Fabrizio; Zettl, Andreas; Heinimann, Karl; Koeberle, Dieter; von Flüe, Markus; Bolli, Martin

2016-01-01

Germline mutations in DNA mismatch repair (MMR) genes MLH1, MSH2, MSH6 and PMS2 cause autosomal dominantly inherited Lynch syndrome. Lynch syndrome patients and their families benefit from life-saving intensive cancer surveillance. Approximately one in 30 colorectal cancers arises in the setting of Lynch syndrome. The aim of this study was to assess the detection rate of Lynch syndrome at our institution after introduction of systematic immunohistochemical screening for MMR deficiency in colorectal cancers from 2011 to 2015. Following the recommendations by the Evaluation of Genomic Applications in Practice and Prevention working group all colorectal cancers were immunohistochemically stained for the presence of MMR proteins MLH1, PMS2, MSH2 and MSH6, independent of clinical criteria. In the case of loss of MLH1, the somatic BRAF mutation V600E was assessed with molecular testing and/or immunohistochemistry. Clinical follow-up of potential Lynch syndrome carriers (patients with tumours showing loss of MLH1 expression with absence of BRAFV600E, loss of PMS2, MSH2 or MSH6) was evaluated. Of all patients (n = 486), loss of MMR protein expression was found in 73 (15.0%) tumours. Twenty-eight (6.0%) were classified as potential Lynch syndrome carriers. Of the genetically tested potential Lynch syndrome carriers (10 out of 28 patients), 40% were first diagnosed with Lynch syndrome. Implementation of systematic immunohistochemistry screening for Lynch syndrome showed that 6% of colorectal cancers were potentially Lynch-syndrome related. Tumour board protocols should systematically contain information on MMR status of all colorectal cancers and, in MMR deficient cases, include clear recommendations for genetic counselling for all potential Lynch syndrome patients.
External beam ionizing radiation for inhibition of myointimal hyperplasia after dilatation and anastomoses: experimental models and results.

PubMed

Ducasse, Eric; Cosset, Jean-Marc; Eschwege, François; Creusy, Colette; Chevalier, Jacques; Puppinck, Paul; Lartigau, Eric

2004-01-01

In recent years there has been intensive research on the use of ionizing radiation for inhibition of intimal hyperplasia (IH). Results have clearly established that beta ionizing radiation delivered from an endoluminal source after angioplasty inhibits intimal restenosis. This effect has been confirmed by recent multicenter clinical trials in patients undergoing coronary dilatation. The purpose of this study was to determine if gamma radiation therapy delivered superficially from an external source also reduced smooth muscle cell proliferation in two animals models-the first involving experimentally induced restenosis and the second involving anastomosis between a prosthesis and artery. Ultimately we hope to develop a therapeutic application for patients undergoing peripheral anastomoses, especially in the lower extremities. Two different animal models were used in this two-stage study. The first-stage rabbit model (model 1) involved balloon injury of the aorta to validate the dose effect of external beam irradiation. The second-stage porcine model (model 2) involved aortic bypass followed by external beam irradiation of the distal anastomosis site. In model 1 a total of 56 rabbits were studied. They were divided into five groups including one control group in which external radiation was not applied after balloon injury and four test groups in which external radiation was applied in a single fraction on day 0 at four different doses: 10 grays, 15 grays, 20 grays, and 25 grays. In model 2, a total of 24 pigs underwent aortic bypass with a 6-mm PTFE graft followed by irradiation of the distal end-to-side anastomosis at a dose of 20 grays on day 0. In both models specimens were harvested after 6 weeks and studied histologically after staining with HES and orcein, histomorphometrically by measuring intimal hyperplasia, and immunohistochemically using actin and factor VIII/von Willebrand factor (F VIII/vWF). The zones of study on the anastomosis were separated into
Air Quality Criteria for Ozone and Related Photochemical Oxidants (Second External Review Draft)

EPA Science Inventory

This second external review draft of the Air Quality Criteria for Ozone and Related Photochemical Oxidants, Volumes I-III (Ozone Criteria Document) is being released for public comment and for review by EPA's Clean Air Scientific Advisory Committee (CASAC) r...
[National External Quality Assessment for medical biology laboratories in Burkina Faso: an overview of three years of activity].

PubMed

Sakande, Jean; Nikièma, Abdoulaye; Kabré, Elie; Nacoulma, Eric; Sawadogo, Charles; Lingani, Virginie; Traoré, Lady Kady; Kouanda, Abdoulaye; Kientéga, Youssouf; Somda, Joseph; Kagambéga, Faustin; Sanou, Mahamoudou; Sangaré, Lassana; Traoré-Ouédraogo, Rasmata

2010-01-01

We report results of the National External Quality Assessment for (NEQA) laboratories in Burkina Faso, a country with limited resources located in West Africa whose epidemiology is dominated by infectious diseases. The national laboratory network consists of 160 laboratories including 40 private. The Government of Burkina Faso has adopted a national laboratory policy. One of the objectives of this policy is to improve the quality of laboratory results. One of the strategies to achieve this objective is the establishment of a NEQA. The NEQA is a panel testing also called proficiency testing. It is mandatory for all laboratories to participate to the NEQA. The NEQA is organized twice a year and covers all areas of laboratories (bacteriology-virology, biochemistry, hematology, parasitology and immunology). The review of three years of activity (2006-2008) shows the following results: (1) for microscopic examination of bacteria after Gram staining, the error rate decreased from 24.7% in 2006 to 13.1% in 2007 and 13% in 2008; (2) errors rate in reading slides for the microscopic diagnosis of malaria were 23.4%, 14.6% and 10.2% respectively in 2006, 2007 and 2008; (3) for biochemistry, the percentages of unsatisfactory results were respectively 12.5%, 14.8% and 13.8% in 2006, 2007 and 2008 for the overall parameters assessed. The analysis of the results generated by the laboratories during these three years shows a quality improvement. However, the NEQA should be strengthened through ongoing training and quality control of reagents and equipment.
Investigation of the 2f1-f2 and 2f2-f1 distortion product otoacoustic emissions using a computational model of the gerbil ear.

PubMed

Wen, Haiqi; Bowling, Thomas; Meaud, Julien

2018-05-19

In this work, a three-dimensional computational model of the gerbil ear is used to investigate the generation of the 2f 1 -f 2 and 2f 2 -f 1 distortion product otoacoustic emissions (DPOAEs). In order to predict both the distortion and reflection sources, cochlear roughness is modeled by introducing random inhomogeneities in the outer hair cell properties. The model was used to simulate the generation of DPOAEs in response to a two-tone stimulus for various primary stimulus levels and frequency ratios. As in published experiments, the 2f 1 -f 2 DPOAEs are mostly dominated by the distortion component while the 2f 2 -f 1 DPOAEs are dominated by the reflection component; furthermore, the influence of the levels and frequency ratio of the primaries are consistent with measurements. Analysis of the intracochlear response shows that the distortion component has the highest magnitude at all longitudinal locations for the 2f 1 -f 2 distortion product (DP) while the distortion component only dominates close to the DP best place in the case of the 2f 2 -f 1 DP. Decomposition of the intracochlear DPs into forward and reverse waves demonstrates that the 2f 1 -f 2 DP generates reverse waves for both the distortion and reflection components; however, a reverse wave is only generated for the reflection component in the case of the 2f 2 -f 1 DP. As in experiments in the gerbil, the group delay of the reflection component of the DPOAE is between 1× and 2× the forward group delay, which is consistent with the propagation of DP towards the stapes as slow reverse waves. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Wind-Tunnel Tests of a 1/8-Scale Powered Model of the XTB3F-1 Airplane, TED No. NACA 2382

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

McKee, John W.; Vogler, Raymond D.

1947-01-01

A 1/8 scale model of the Grumman XTB3F-1 airplane was tested in the Langley 7- by 10-foot tunnel to determine the stability and control characteristics and to provide data for estimating the airplane handling qualities. The report includes longitudinal and lateral stability and control characteristics of the complete model, the characteristics of the isolated horizontal tail, the effects of various flow conditions through the jet duct, tests with external stores attached to the underside of the wing, ana tests simulating landing and take-off conditions with a ground board. The handling characteristics of the airplane have not been computed but some conclusions were indicated by the data. An improvement in the longitudinal stability was obtained by tilting the thrust line down. It is shown that if the wing flap is spring loaded so that the flap deflection varies with airspeed, the airplanes will be less stable than with the flap retracted or fully deflected. An increase in size of the vertical tail and of the dorsal fin gave more desirable yawing-moment characteristics than the original vertical tail and dorsal fin. Preventing air flow through the jet duct system or simulating jet operation with unheated air produced only small changes in the model characteristics. The external stores on the underside of the wing had only small effects on the model characteristics. After completion of the investigation, the model was returned to the contractor for modifications indicated by the test results.
40 CFR Appendix F to Part 132 - Great Lakes Water Quality Initiative Implementation Procedures

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... aquatic life criteria or values may be developed when: i. The local water quality characteristics such as... 40 Protection of Environment 23 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Great Lakes Water Quality Initiative... (CONTINUED) WATER PROGRAMS WATER QUALITY GUIDANCE FOR THE GREAT LAKES SYSTEM Pt. 132, App. F Appendix F to...
Overcoming Film Quality Issues for Conjugated Polymers Doped with F4TCNQ by Solution Sequential Processing: Hall Effect, Structural, and Optical Measurements.

PubMed

Scholes, D Tyler; Hawks, Steven A; Yee, Patrick Y; Wu, Hao; Lindemuth, Jeffrey R; Tolbert, Sarah H; Schwartz, Benjamin J

2015-12-03

We demonstrate that solution-sequential processing (SqP) can yield heavily doped pristine-quality films when used to infiltrate the molecular dopant 2,3,5,6-tetrafluoro-7,7,8,8-tetracyanoquinodimethane (F4TCNQ) into pure poly(3-hexylthiophene) (P3HT) polymer layers. Profilometry measurements show that the SqP method produces doped films with essentially the same surface roughness as pristine films, and 2-D grazing-incidence wide-angle X-ray scattering (GIWAXS) confirms that SqP preserves both the size and orientation of the pristine polymer's crystallites. Unlike traditional blend-cast F4TCNQ/P3HT doped films, our sequentially processed layers have tunable and reproducible conductivities reaching as high as 5.5 S/cm even when measured over macroscopic (>1 cm) distances. The high conductivity and superb film quality allow for meaningful Hall effect measurements, which reveal p-type conduction and carrier concentrations tunable from 10(16) to 10(20) cm(-3) and hole mobilities ranging from ∼0.003 to 0.02 cm(2) V(-1) s(-1) at room temperature over the doping levels examined.
Immunohistochemical and genetic profiles of endometrioid endometrial carcinoma arising from atrophic endometrium.

PubMed

Geels, Yvette P; van der Putten, Louis J M; van Tilborg, Angela A G; Lurkin, Irene; Zwarthoff, Ellen C; Pijnenborg, Johanna M A; van den Berg-van Erp, Saskia H; Snijders, Marc P L M; Bulten, Johan; Visscher, Daniel W; Dowdy, Sean C; Massuger, Leon F A G

2015-05-01

Endometrial carcinomas are divided into type I endometrioid endometrial carcinomas (EECs), thought to arise from hyperplastic endometrium, and type II nonendometrioid endometrial carcinomas, thought to arise from atrophic endometrium. However, a minority (20%) of EECs have atrophic background endometrium, which was shown to be a marker of a worse prognosis. This study compares the immunohistochemical and genetic profiles of this possible third type to that of the known two types. 43 patients with grade 1 EEC and hyperplastic background endometrium (type I), 43 patients with grade 1 EEC and atrophic background endometrium (type III) and 21 patients with serous carcinoma (type II) were included (n=107). Tissue microarrays of tumor samples were immunohistochemically stained for PTEN, L1CAM, ER, PR, p53, MLH1, PMS2, β-catenin, E-cadherin and MIB1. The BRAF, KRAS, and PIK3CA genes were analyzed for mutations. A significantly higher expression of ER and PR, and a lower expression of L1CAM, p53 and MLH1 were found in type I and III compared to type II carcinomas. Expression of E-cadherin was significantly reduced in type III compared to type I carcinomas. Mutation analysis showed significantly less mutations of KRAS in type III compared to type I and II carcinomas (p<0.01). There appear to be slight immunohistochemical and genetic differences between EECs with hyperplastic and atrophic background endometrium. Carcinogenesis of EEC in atrophic endometrium seems to be characterized by loss of E-cadherin and a lack of KRAS mutations. As expected, endometrioid and serous carcinomas were immunohistochemically different. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Sensory irritation structure-activity study of inhaled aldehydes in B6C3F1 and Swiss-Webster mice

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

Steinhagen, W.H.; Barrow, C.S.

1984-03-15

The sensory irritation potential of a series of saturated and unsaturated aliphatic and cyclic aldehydes was investigated in B6C3F1 and Swiss-Webster mice. With the reflex decrease in respiratory rate as the endpoint response, alpha, beta-unsaturated aliphatic aldehydes yielded RD/sub 50/ values (concentration which elicits a 50% decrease in respiratory rate) ranging from 1 to 5 ppm while saturated aliphatic aldehydes with two or more carbons produced RD/sub 50/ values from 750 to 4200 ppm. Cyclic aldehydes produced intermediate RD/sub 50/ values which ranged from 60 to 400 ppm. No statistically significant differences were found between concentration-response curves of B6C3F1 andmore » Swiss-Webster mice. Saturated aliphatic aldehydes with two or more carbons were nearly 1000 times less potent than formaldehyde. Although the mechanisms responsible for stimulation of trigeminal nerve endings by airborne chemicals are poorly understood, several hypotheses may help to explain the differences seen in this study. For example, the sensory irritation potency of the saturated aliphatic aldehydes diminished with their reported dehydration constants which may determine the degree to which these aldehydes crosslink with receptor proteins. The sensory irritation potency of acrolein and crotonaldehyde was probably due to 1,2 or 1,4 addition reactions. Additionally, molecular conformation and a recently published physical mechanism may contribute to sensory irritation responses, particularly for the less reactive aldehydes. Tentative threshold limit values (TLVs), based upon prevention of sensory irritation, were extrapolated from the RD/sub 50/ values of Swiss-Webster mice. With the exception of crotonaldehyde, good agreement was found with currently published TLVs.« less
Highly Regular, Uniform K3ScF6:Mn4+ Phosphors: Facile Synthesis, Microstructures, Photoluminescence Properties, and Application in Light-Emitting Diode Devices.

PubMed

Ming, Hong; Liu, Shuifu; Liu, Lili; Peng, Jiaqing; Fu, Junxiang; Du, Fu; Ye, Xinyu

2018-06-13

A new generation of red phosphors of complex fluoride matrices activated with Mn 4+ has gained a broad interest in getting high color quality and low color temperature of solid-state white light-emitting diodes (WLEDs). However, besides their instability toward moisture, the extremely irregular and nonuniform morphologies of these phosphors have limited their practical industry applications. In the present study, a novel type of K 3 ScF 6 :Mn 4+ red phosphor with highly regular, uniform, and high color purity was obtained successfully through a facile coprecipitation route under mild conditions. The crystal structure was identified with aids of the powder X-ray diffraction, Rietveld refinement, and density functional theory calculations. The prototype crystallizes in the space group Fm3 m with a cubic structure, and the lattice parameters are fitted well to be a = b = c = 8.4859(8) Å and V = 611.074(2) Å 3 . The Mn 4+ ions occupy Sc 3+ sites and locate at the centers of the distorted ScF 6 octahedrons. A wide band gap of approximately 6.15 eV can provide sufficient space to accommodate impurity energy levels. Unlike most other Mn 4+ ion-activated fluoride phosphors, the as-prepared K 3 ScF 6 :Mn 4+ phosphors demonstrate highly uniform and regular morphologies with shapes transforming from cube to octahedron with increasing Mn 4+ ion concentration. Under blue light excitation, the as-prepared K 3 ScF 6 :Mn 4+ sample exhibits intense sharp-line red fluorescence (the strongest peak located at 631 nm) with high color purity. An excellent recovery in luminescence upon heating and cooling processes implies high stability of K 3 ScF 6 :Mn 4+ . Furthermore, a warm WLED fabricated with blue GaN chips merged with the mixture of K 3 ScF 6 :Mn 4+ and the well-known commercial YAG:Ce 3+ yellow phosphors exhibits wonderful color quality with lower correlated color temperature (3250 K) and higher color-rendering index ( R a = 86.4). These results suggest that the K 3 ScF 6 :Mn
The Cytochrome b 6 f Complex: Biophysical Aspects of Its Functioning in Chloroplasts.

PubMed

Tikhonov, Alexander N

2018-01-01

This chapter presents an overview of structural properties of the cytochrome (Cyt) b 6 f complex and its functioning in chloroplasts. The Cyt b 6 f complex stands at the crossroad of photosynthetic electron transport pathways, providing connectivity between Photosystem (PSI) and Photosysten II (PSII) and pumping protons across the membrane into the thylakoid lumen. After a brief review of the chloroplast electron transport chain, the consideration is focused on the structural organization of the Cyt b 6 f complex and its interaction with plastoquinol (PQH 2 , reduced form of plastoquinone), a mediator of electron transfer from PSII to the Cyt b 6 f complex. The processes of PQH 2 oxidation by the Cyt b 6 f complex have been considered within the framework of the Mitchell's Q-cycle. The overall rate of the intersystem electron transport is determined by PQH 2 turnover at the quinone-binding site Q o of the Cyt b 6 f complex. The rate of PQH 2 oxidation is controlled by the intrathylakoid pH in , which value determines the protonation/deprotonation events in the Q o -center. Two other regulatory mechanisms associated with the Cyt b 6 f complex are briefly overviewed: (i) redistribution of electron fluxes between alternative (linear and cyclic) pathways, and (ii) "state transitions" related to redistribution of solar energy between PSI and PSII.
26 CFR 1.860F-1 - Qualified liquidations.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 26 Internal Revenue 9 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Qualified liquidations. 1.860F-1 Section 1.860F-1 Internal Revenue INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY (CONTINUED) INCOME TAX (CONTINUED) INCOME TAXES Real Estate Investment Trusts § 1.860F-1 Qualified liquidations. A plan of...
26 CFR 1.860F-1 - Qualified liquidations.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 26 Internal Revenue 9 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Qualified liquidations. 1.860F-1 Section 1.860F-1 Internal Revenue INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY (CONTINUED) INCOME TAX (CONTINUED) INCOME TAXES (CONTINUED) Real Estate Investment Trusts § 1.860F-1 Qualified liquidations. A plan...
26 CFR 1.860F-1 - Qualified liquidations.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... 26 Internal Revenue 9 2014-04-01 2014-04-01 false Qualified liquidations. 1.860F-1 Section 1.860F-1 Internal Revenue INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY (CONTINUED) INCOME TAX (CONTINUED) INCOME TAXES (CONTINUED) Real Estate Investment Trusts § 1.860F-1 Qualified liquidations. A plan...
26 CFR 1.860F-1 - Qualified liquidations.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... 26 Internal Revenue 9 2012-04-01 2012-04-01 false Qualified liquidations. 1.860F-1 Section 1.860F-1 Internal Revenue INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY (CONTINUED) INCOME TAX (CONTINUED) INCOME TAXES (CONTINUED) Real Estate Investment Trusts § 1.860F-1 Qualified liquidations. A plan...
26 CFR 1.860F-1 - Qualified liquidations.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... 26 Internal Revenue 9 2013-04-01 2013-04-01 false Qualified liquidations. 1.860F-1 Section 1.860F-1 Internal Revenue INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY (CONTINUED) INCOME TAX (CONTINUED) INCOME TAXES (CONTINUED) Real Estate Investment Trusts § 1.860F-1 Qualified liquidations. A plan...
Application of visible/near-infrared reflectance spectroscopy for predicting internal and external quality in pepper.

PubMed

Toledo-Martín, Eva María; García-García, María Carmen; Font, Rafael; Moreno-Rojas, José Manuel; Gómez, Pedro; Salinas-Navarro, María; Del Río-Celestino, Mercedes

2016-07-01

The characterization of internal (°Brix, pH, malic acid, total phenolic compounds, ascorbic acid and total carotenoid content) and external (color, firmness and pericarp wall thickness) pepper quality is necessary to better understand its possible applications and increase consumer awareness of its benefits. The main aim of this work was to examine the feasibility of using visible/near-infrared reflectance spectroscopy (VIS-NIRS) to predict quality parameters in different pepper types. Commercially available spectrophotometers were evaluated for this purpose: a Polychromix Phazir spectrometer for intact raw pepper, and a scanning monochromator for freeze-dried pepper. The RPD values (ratio of the standard deviation of the reference data to the standard error of prediction) obtained from the external validation exceeded a value of 3 for chlorophyll a and total carotenoid content; values ranging between 2.5 < RPD < 3 for total phenolic compounds; between 1.5 < RPD <2.5 for °Brix, pH, color parameters a* and h* and chlorophyll b; and RPD values below 1.5 for fruit firmness, pericarp wall thickness, color parameters C*, b* and L*, vitamin C and malic acid content. The present work has led to the development of multi-type calibrations for pepper quality parameters in intact and freeze-dried peppers. The majority of NIRS equations obtained were suitable for screening purposes in pepper breeding programs. Components such as pigments (xanthophyll, carotenes and chlorophyll), glucides, lipids, cellulose and water were used by modified partial least-squares regression for modeling the predicting equations. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry.
Warthin-like papillary renal cell carcinoma: Clinicopathologic, morphologic, immunohistochemical and molecular genetic analysis of 11 cases.

PubMed

Skenderi, Faruk; Ulamec, Monika; Vanecek, Tomas; Martinek, Petr; Alaghehbandan, Reza; Foix, Maria Pane; Babankova, Iva; Montiel, Delia Perez; Alvarado-Cabrero, Isabel; Svajdler, Marian; Dubinský, Pavol; Cempirkova, Dana; Pavlovsky, Michal; Vranic, Semir; Daum, Ondrej; Ondic, Ondrej; Pivovarcikova, Kristyna; Michalova, Kvetoslava; Hora, Milan; Rotterova, Pavla; Stehlikova, Adela; Dusek, Martin; Michal, Michal; Hes, Ondrej

2017-04-01

Oncocytic papillary renal cell carcinoma (PRCC) is a distinct subtype of PRCC, listed as a possible new variant of PRCC in the 2016 WHO classification. It is composed of papillae aligned by large single-layered eosinophilic cells showing linearly arranged oncocytoma-like nuclei. We analyzed clinicopathologic, morphologic, immunohistochemical and molecular-genetic characteristics of 11 oncocytic PRCCs with prominent tumor lymphocytic infiltrate, morphologically resembling Warthin's tumor. The patients were predominantly males (8/11, 73%), with an average age of 59years (range 14-76), and a mean tumor size of 7cm (range 1-22cm). Tumors had the features of oncocytic PRCCs with focal pseudostratification in 8/11 cases and showed dense stromal inflammatory infiltration in all cases. Papillary growth pattern was predominant, comprising more than 60% of tumor volume. Tubular and solid components were present in 5 and 3 cases, respectively. Uniform immunohistochemical positivity was found for AMACR, PAX-8, MIA, vimentin, and OSCAR. Tumors were mostly negative for carboanhydrase 9, CD117, CK20, and TTF-1. Immunohistochemical stains for DNA mismatch repair proteins MLH1 and PMS2 were retained in all cases, while MSH2 and MSH6 were negative in 1 case. Tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) consisted of both B and T cells. Chromosomal copy number variation analysis showed great variability in 5 cases, ranging from a loss of one single chromosome to complex genome rearrangements. Only one case showed gains of chromosomes 7 and 17, among other aberrations. In 4 cases no numerical imbalance was found. Follow up data was available for 9 patients (median 47.6months, range 1-132). In 6 patients no lethal progression was noted, while 3 died of disease. In conclusion, Warthin-like PRCC is morphologically very close to oncocytic PRCC, from which it differs by the presence of dense lymphoid stroma. Chromosomal numerical aberration pattern of these tumors is variable; only one case showed

Synthesis of N-formyl-3,4-di-t-butoxycarbonyloxy-6(trimethylstannyl)-L-phenylalanine ethyl ester and its regioselective radiofluorodestannylation to 6-[{sup 18}F]fluoro-1-dopa

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

Satyamurthy, N.; Barrio, J.R.; Bishop, A.J.

A process is revealed for forming a 6-fluoro derivative of compounds in the L-Dopa family comprising the steps of protecting the groups attached to the benzene ring in the compound followed by serially reacting the protected compound with (a) iodine and silver trifluoroacetic acid; (b) Bb{sub 3}; (c) dit-butyldicarbonate; (d) hexamethyltin; (e) a fluoro compound; (f) hydrobromic acid; and (g) raising the pH to {<=}7. 1 fig.
Synthesis of N-formyl-3,4-di-t-butoxycarbonyloxy-6(trimethylstannyl)-L-phenylalanine ethyl ester and its regioselective radiofluorodestannylation to 6-[{sup 18}F]fluoro-1-dopa

DOEpatents

Satyamurthy, N.; Barrio, J.R.; Bishop, A.J.; Namavari, M.; Bida, G.T.

1996-04-23

A process is revealed for forming a 6-fluoro derivative of compounds in the L-Dopa family comprising the steps of protecting the groups attached to the benzene ring in the compound followed by serially reacting the protected compound with (a) iodine and silver trifluoroacetic acid; (b) Bb{sub 3}; (c) dit-butyldicarbonate; (d) hexamethyltin; (e) a fluoro compound; (f) hydrobromic acid; and (g) raising the pH to {<=}7. 1 fig.
Fluorine-substitution induced switching of dissociation patterns of C6H4*+ produced by photoelimination of MgF2 from the complexes of mg*+ (multifluorobenzene).

PubMed

Liu, Hai-Chuan; Zhang, Xin-Hao; Wu, Yun-Dong; Yang, Shihe

2005-03-07

Complexes of fluorinated benzenes (o-C6H4-nF2+n) and Mg*+ are subjected to ultraviolet photodissociation (260-340 nm), producing efficiently benzyne radical cations (C6H4-nFn*+) besides Mg*+ and MgF+. We show that the consecutive dissociation of C6H4-nFn*+ follows the [C4(+) + C2] pattern exclusively for n < or = 2 after the parent complexes absorb one or two photons. However, the dissociation pattern is switched to [C5(+) + C1] and [C1 + C5] for n > or = 3. In particular, upon two-photon absorption at 340 nm by the complexes of Mg*+ (C6HF5) (1) and Mg*+ (C6F6) (2), photoproducts of CF+, C5H+, and C5HF*+ from C6HF3*+ and CF+, C5F+, C5F2*+, and C5F3+ from C6F4*+ are detected, respectively. Theoretical calculations are used to explain the switching of the dissociation patterns induced by the fluorine substitutions. It was found that the formation of C5+ + C1 is energetically more favorable than that of C4(+) + C2 from C6HF3*+ and C6F4*+ and of C1(+) + C5. Except for C5H2F(+) + CF, all the channels of [C5(+) + C1] and [C1(+) + C5] are energetically less favorable than those of [C4(+) + C2] from C6H3F*+ and C6H2F2*+. In most cases, the calculated results agree well with the experimental observations.
External Guide Sequences Targeting the aac(6′)-Ib mRNA Induce Inhibition of Amikacin Resistance▿

PubMed Central

Bistué, Alfonso J. C. Soler; Ha, Hongphuc; Sarno, Renee; Don, Michelle; Zorreguieta, Angeles; Tolmasky, Marcelo E.

2007-01-01

The dissemination of AAC(6′)-I-type acetyltransferases have rendered amikacin and other aminoglycosides all but useless in some parts of the world. Antisense technologies could be an alternative to extend the life of these antibiotics. External guide sequences are short antisense oligoribonucleotides that induce RNase P-mediated cleavage of a target RNA by forming a precursor tRNA-like complex. Thirteen-nucleotide external guide sequences complementary to locations within five regions accessible for interaction with antisense oligonucleotides in the mRNA that encodes AAC(6′)-Ib were analyzed. While small variations in the location targeted by different external guide sequences resulted in big changes in efficiency of binding to native aac(6′)-Ib mRNA, most of them induced high levels of RNase P-mediated cleavage in vitro. Recombinant plasmids coding for selected external guide sequences were introduced into Escherichia coli harboring aac(6′)-Ib, and the transformant strains were tested to determine their resistance to amikacin. The two external guide sequences that showed the strongest binding efficiency to the mRNA in vitro, EGSC3 and EGSA2, interfered with expression of the resistance phenotype at different degrees. Growth curve experiments showed that E. coli cells harboring a plasmid coding for EGSC3, the external guide sequence with the highest mRNA binding affinity in vitro, did not grow for at least 300 min in the presence of 15 μg of amikacin/ml. EGSA2, which had a lower mRNA-binding affinity in vitro than EGSC3, inhibited the expression of amikacin resistance at a lesser level; growth of E. coli harboring a plasmid coding for EGSA2, in the presence of 15 μg of amikacin/ml was undetectable for 200 min but reached an optical density at 600 nm of 0.5 after 5 h of incubation. Our results indicate that the use of external guide sequences could be a viable strategy to preserve the efficacy of amikacin. PMID:17387154
Histologic and immunohistochemical assessment of penile carcinomas in a North American population.

PubMed

Mentrikoski, Mark J; Stelow, Edward B; Culp, Stephen; Frierson, Henry F; Cathro, Helen P

2014-10-01

Penile squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is sometimes an aggressive disease that has a variable worldwide incidence, in part due to differing rates of inflammatory and infectious risk factors. In the developed world, penile SCC is a rare malignancy, and most studies therefore originate in less developed countries. The current study was undertaken to examine the morphologic and immunohistochemical features of penile SCC from a region with low disease incidence. Sixty-two complete or partial penectomy specimens from 59 patients were reviewed. Twenty-six patients had metastasis, 3 had recurrent disease, and 7 were dead due to tumor. Most patients were uncircumcised (72%). Twenty-two percent of carcinomas were associated with lichen sclerosis. Perineural invasion was significantly associated with metastasis (P=0.007). Most SCCs (65%) had the usual keratinizing morphology, and these tumors were significantly associated with the differentiated form of intraepithelial lesion (P<0.0001), p53 positivity (P=0.002), cyclin D1 positivity (P=0.007), and EGFR overexpression (P=0.003). Human papilloma virus (HPV)-associated tumors accounted for 27% and were basaloid (8%), warty (10%), mixed (6%), or lymphoepithelioma-like carcinoma (4%) variants. These were significantly associated with p16 expression (P<0.0001) and the undifferentiated form of intraepithelial lesion (P<0.001). Among all SCCs, there was no difference in the immunohistochemical or in situ hybridization profile between primary tumors and metastases. Although penile SCC is rare in the United States, the tumor variants, immunohistochemical profiles, and proportion of HPV-associated tumors are similar to those in less developed countries. Two distinct pathways appear to lead to carcinogenesis; one is related to underlying chronic inflammatory states, involves p53 mutation, cyclin D1 overexpression, and culminates in classic keratinizing SCC. The other pathway involves high-risk HPV infection, demonstrates strong p16
Engineering Strategies and Methods for Avoiding Air-Quality Externalities: Dispersion Modeling, Home Energy Conservation, and Scenario Planning

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Knox, Andrew James

Energy conservation can improve air quality by reducing emissions from fuel combustion. The human health value retained through better air quality can then offset the cost of energy conservation. Through this thesis' innovative yet widely-accessible combination of air pollution dispersion modeling and atmospheric chemistry, it is estimated that the health value retained by avoiding emissions from Ontario's former coal-fired generating stations is 5.74/MWh (using an upper-bound value of 265,000 per year of life lost). This value is combined with energy modeling of homes in the first-ever assessment of the air-quality health benefits of low-energy buildings. It is shown that avoided health damages can equal 7% of additional construction costs of energy efficient buildings in Ontario. At 7%, health savings are a significant item in the cost analysis of efficient buildings. Looking to energy efficiency in the context of likely future low-resource natural gas scenarios, building efficient buildings today is shown to be more economically efficient than any building retrofit option. Considering future natural gas scarcity in the context of Ontario's Long-Term Energy Plan reveals that Ontario may be forced to return to coal-fired electricity. Projected coal use would result in externalities greater than $600 million/year; 80% more than air-quality externalities from Ontario's electricity in 1985. Radically aggressive investment in electricity conservation (75% reduction per capita by 2075) is one promising path forward that keeps air-quality externalities below 1985 levels. Non-health externalities are an additional concern, the quantification, and ultimately monetization, of which could be practical using emerging air pollution monitoring technologies. Energy, conservation, energy planning, and energy's externalities form a complex situation in which today's decisions are critical to a successful future. It is clear that reducing the demand for energy is essential and
Delineation of Chondroid Lipoma: An Immunohistochemical and Molecular Biological Analysis

PubMed Central

de Vreeze, Ronald S. A.; van Coevorden, Frits; Boerrigter, Lucie; Nederlof, Petra M.; Haas, Rick L.; Bras, Johannes; Rosenwald, Andreas; Mentzel, Thomas; de Jong, Daphne

2011-01-01

Aims. Chondroid lipoma (CL) is a benign tumor that mimics a variety of soft tissue tumors and is characterized by translocation t(11;16). Here, we analyze CL and its histological mimics. Methods. CL (n = 4) was compared to a variety of histological mimics (n = 83) for morphological aspects and immunohistochemical features including cyclinD1(CCND1). Using FISH analysis, CCND1 and FUS were investigated as potential translocation partners. Results. All CLs were strongly positive for CCND1. One of 4 myoepitheliomas, CCND1, was positive. In well-differentiated lipomatous tumors and in chondrosarcomas, CCND1 was frequently expressed, but all myxoid liposarcomas were negative. FISH analysis did not give support for direct involvement of CCND1 and FUS as translocation partners. Conclusions. Chondroid lipoma is extremely rare and has several and more prevalent histological mimics. The differential diagnosis of chondroid lipomas can be unraveled using immunohistochemical and molecular support. PMID:21559269
Giant enhancement of fluctuation in small biological systems under external fields

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hayashi, Kumiko; Hasegawa, Shin; Tsunoda, Satoshi P.

2016-05-01

The giant enhancement (GE) of fluctuation under an external field is a universal phenomenon predicted by the theoretical analysis given in (Reimann et al 2001 Phys. Rev. Lett.). Here, we propose the application of the theory of the GE of fluctuation to estimate the energy barrier of a biomolecule that exhibits its function subject to thermal noise. The rotary motor protein F1 was used as a model, which is a component of FoF1 adenosine triphosphate (ATP)-synthase. In the single-molecule experiment on F1, the diffusion coefficients of a rotary probe attached to F1, which characterised the fluctuation of the system, were measured under the influence of an electro-rotary field. These diffusion coefficients were then used to estimate a high-energy barrier of the rotary potential of F1 based on the theory of the GE of fluctuation. Furthermore, the ion channel protein channelrhodopsin (ChR) was used as another research model. The current fluctuations of ions moving through ChR were numerically investigated using a simulation model of the protein in the presence of an external voltage. The energy barrier for ion conduction is discussed based on the current fluctuations.
Characteristics of energy exchange between inter- and intramolecular degrees of freedom in crystalline 1,3,5-triamino-2,4,6-trinitrobenzene (TATB) with implications for coarse-grained simulations of shock waves in polyatomic molecular crystals

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

Kroonblawd, Matthew P.; Sewell, Thomas D., E-mail: sewellt@missouri.edu; Maillet, Jean-Bernard, E-mail: jean-bernard.maillet@cea.fr

2016-02-14

In this report, we characterize the kinetics and dynamics of energy exchange between intramolecular and intermolecular degrees of freedom (DoF) in crystalline 1,3,5-triamino-2,4,6-trinitrobenzene (TATB). All-atom molecular dynamics (MD) simulations are used to obtain predictions for relaxation from certain limiting initial distributions of energy between the intra- and intermolecular DoF. The results are used to parameterize a coarse-grained Dissipative Particle Dynamics at constant Energy (DPDE) model for TATB. Each TATB molecule in the DPDE model is represented as an all-atom, rigid-molecule mesoparticle, with explicit external (molecular translational and rotational) DoF and coarse-grained implicit internal (vibrational) DoF. In addition to conserving linearmore » and angular momentum, the DPDE equations of motion conserve the total system energy provided that particles can exchange energy between their external and internal DoF. The internal temperature of a TATB molecule is calculated using an internal equation of state, which we develop here, and the temperatures of the external and internal DoF are coupled using a fluctuation-dissipation relation. The DPDE force expression requires specification of the input parameter σ that determines the rate at which energy is exchanged between external and internal DoF. We adjusted σ based on the predictions for relaxation processes obtained from MD simulations. The parameterized DPDE model was employed in large-scale simulations of shock compression of TATB. We show that the rate of energy exchange governed by σ can significantly influence the transient behavior of the system behind the shock.« less
Cleanup Verification Package for the 118-F-6 Burial Ground

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

H. M. Sulloway

2008-10-02

This cleanup verification package documents completion of remedial action for the 118-F-6 Burial Ground located in the 100-FR-2 Operable Unit of the 100-F Area on the Hanford Site. The trenches received waste from the 100-F Experimental Animal Farm, including animal manure, animal carcasses, laboratory waste, plastic, cardboard, metal, and concrete debris as well as a railroad tank car.
26 CFR 1.267(f)-1 - Controlled groups.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... 26 Internal Revenue 3 2013-04-01 2013-04-01 false Controlled groups. 1.267(f)-1 Section 1.267(f)-1...) INCOME TAXES (CONTINUED) Items Not Deductible § 1.267(f)-1 Controlled groups. (a) In general—(1) Purpose... transactions between members of a controlled group (intercompany sales). The purpose of this section is to...
26 CFR 1.267(f)-1 - Controlled groups.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... 26 Internal Revenue 3 2014-04-01 2014-04-01 false Controlled groups. 1.267(f)-1 Section 1.267(f)-1...) INCOME TAXES (CONTINUED) Items Not Deductible § 1.267(f)-1 Controlled groups. (a) In general—(1) Purpose... transactions between members of a controlled group (intercompany sales). The purpose of this section is to...
26 CFR 1.267(f)-1 - Controlled groups.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... 26 Internal Revenue 3 2012-04-01 2012-04-01 false Controlled groups. 1.267(f)-1 Section 1.267(f)-1...) INCOME TAXES (CONTINUED) Items Not Deductible § 1.267(f)-1 Controlled groups. (a) In general—(1) Purpose... transactions between members of a controlled group (intercompany sales). The purpose of this section is to...
Is It Possible? Investigating the Influence of External Quality Audit on University Performance

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Carr, Sarah; Hamilton, Emma; Meade, Phil

2005-01-01

This paper explores whether it is possible to isolate independent effects of external quality audit (EQA) and concludes that effectiveness evaluations have a stronger foundation when the combined effects of university governance and management initiatives and government initiatives are examined together with EQA. The issue of how successful these…
A stitch in time saves nine: external quality assessment rounds demonstrate improved quality of biomarker analysis in lung cancer

PubMed Central

Keppens, Cleo; Tack, Véronique; Hart, Nils ‘t; Tembuyser, Lien; Ryska, Ales; Pauwels, Patrick; Zwaenepoel, Karen; Schuuring, Ed; Cabillic, Florian; Tornillo, Luigi; Warth, Arne; Weichert, Wilko; Dequeker, Elisabeth

2018-01-01

Biomarker analysis has become routine practice in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). To ensure high quality testing, participation to external quality assessment (EQA) schemes is essential. This article provides a longitudinal overview of the EQA performance for EGFR, ALK, and ROS1 analyses in NSCLC between 2012 and 2015. The four scheme years were organized by the European Society of Pathology according to the ISO 17043 standard. Participants were asked to analyze the provided tissue using their routine procedures. Analysis scores improved for individual laboratories upon participation to more EQA schemes, except for ROS1 immunohistochemistry (IHC). For EGFR analysis, scheme error rates were 18.8%, 14.1% and 7.5% in 2013, 2014 and 2015 respectively. For ALK testing, error rates decreased between 2012 and 2015 by 5.2%, 3.2% and 11.8% for the fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), FISH digital, and IHC subschemes, respectively. In contrast, for ROS1 error rates increased between 2014 and 2015 for FISH and IHC by 3.2% and 9.3%. Technical failures decreased over the years for all three markers. Results show that EQA contributes to an ameliorated performance for most predictive biomarkers in NSCLC. Room for improvement is still present, especially for ROS1 analysis. PMID:29755669
26 CFR 1.691(f)-1 - Cross reference.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 26 Internal Revenue 8 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Cross reference. 1.691(f)-1 Section 1.691(f)-1 Internal Revenue INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY (CONTINUED) INCOME TAX (CONTINUED) INCOME TAXES Income in Respect of Decedents § 1.691(f)-1 Cross reference. See section 753 and the...
26 CFR 1.415(f)-1 - Aggregating plans.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 26 Internal Revenue 5 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Aggregating plans. 1.415(f)-1 Section 1.415(f)-1...) INCOME TAXES Pension, Profit-Sharing, Stock Bonus Plans, Etc. § 1.415(f)-1 Aggregating plans. (a) In general. Except as provided in paragraph (g) of this section (regarding multiemployer plans), and taking...
[Evaluation of external quality assurance in accordance with sect. 137 SGB V at the Carl Gustav Carus university hospital in Dresden].

PubMed

Petzold, Thomas; Steinwitz, Adrienne; Schmitt, Jochen; Eberlein-Gonska, Maria

2013-01-01

Obligatory external quality assurance is an established method used to ensure the quality of inpatient care in Germany. The comprehensive approach is unique in international comparison. In addition to the statutory requirement, the health insurance funds require this form of external quality control in order to foster quality-based competition between hospitals. Ever since its introduction, healthcare providers have scrutinised the effects of the mandatory use of this survey. The study was based on all patients in the University Hospital Dresden, for whom a quality assurance sheet (n = 45,639) had to be recorded between 2003 and 2011. The documentation of these sheets was carried out by specially trained personnel. For each performance area, the duration of the documentation quality sheets was assessed, and a descriptive analysis of all quality assurance sheets was conducted. In the presence of statistical significance the so-called "Structured Dialogues" were analysed. Over the whole period, 167 statistically noticeable problems occurred. Nine of these have been rated as noticeable problems in medical quality by the specialised working groups of the project office quality assurance (PGSQS) at the Saxon State Medical Association (SLÄK). The remaining 158 statistical anomalies included 25 documentation errors; 96 were classified as statistically significant, and only 37 were marked to indicate that re-observation by the PGSQS was required. The total effort estimate for the documentation of quality assurance sheets was approximately 1,420 working days in the observation period. As far as the quality of patient care is concerned, the results can be considered positive because only a small number of quality indicators indicate noticeable qualitative problems. This statement is based primarily on the comparison of the groups of Saxony and Germany, which are included in the quality report of external quality assurance in accordance with sect. 137 SGB V. The majority of
Theoretical model of the ionic mechanism of 1/f noise in nerve membrane.

PubMed Central

Clay, J R; Shlesinger, M F

1976-01-01

A model is presented for the ionic mechanism of low frequency 1/f electrical noise which has been observed in axonal membranes. The model consists of narrow channels which open randomly throughout the membrane and remain open for only a short time compared with f-1max where fmax approximately 2 kHz is the maximum frequency for which 1/f noise is observed. The fluctuation in channel formation is coupled to low frequency normal mode vibrations in liquid crystals which have properties similar to nerve membranes. Ionic current flow through the channels is assumed to occur via single file diffusion. The diffusion process is regarded as a non-Markovian random walk on a one-dimensional lattice which is mathematically decomposed into its spatial and temporal components. This technique allows calculation of the mean and variance of the number of ions which flow through any single short-lived channel. The final result for the current noise power spectrum, S, is S(f) = (A + k/I/2)/f, where I is the mean membrane current and A and k are parameters which are independent of membrane voltage. The theoretical result is consistent with observations of 1/f noise in lobster axon by Poussart (1971, Biophys. J. 11:212.) on the dependence of S(f) on the mean steady-state current and the external potassium concentration. We also calculate the mean channel density and the Frank elastic constant of the membrane. This work is an extension of a macroscopic model of Lundström and McQueen (1974, J. Theor. Biol. 45:405.) who obtain a spectral density of the form S approximately /I/2/f. PMID:1247642
Design and implementation of an external quality assessment program for HIV viral load measurements using dried blood spots.

PubMed

Prach, Lisa M; Puren, Adrian; Lippman, Sheri A; Carmona, Sergio; Stephenson, Sophie; Cutler, Ewalde; Barnhart, Scott; Liegler, Teri

2015-03-01

An external quality assurance program was developed for HIV-1 RNA viral load measurements taken from dried blood spots using a reference panel and field-collected specimens. The program demonstrated that accurate and reproducible quantitation can be obtained from field-collected specimens. Residual proviral DNA may confound interpretation in virologically suppressed subjects. Copyright © 2015, American Society for Microbiology. All Rights Reserved.

The chemo-mechanical coupled model for F(1)F(0)-motor.

PubMed

Xu, Lizhong; Liu, Fang

2012-04-01

F(1)F(0)-motor (ATP synthase) is the universal enzyme in biological energy conversion that is present in the membranes of mitochondria, chloroplasts and bacteria. It uses the energy of the proton gradient across the membrane to synthesize ATP. Previous theory and model about rotation of the ATP synthase is reviewed, then a novel chemo-mechanical coupled model for rotation of the F(1)F(0)-motor is proposed. In the model, more events are considered simultaneously that includes the movement of F(1), the movement of F(0), reactions at F(1) and reactions at F(0). Using the model, the possible substep modes of the rotation for F(1)F(0) are predicted, the dependence of the motor efficiency and its rotation rate on the rigidity of the γ shaft is investigated. We conclude that the γ shaft has a large rotation rate for a limited driving potential because two ends of the γ shaft can rotate alternately for its flexibility. The flexibility also makes the efficiency of F(1)F(0) drop because elastic twisting deformation power is needed during alternate rotation of the γ shaft at two ends. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
External Quality Assessment for the Detection of Measles Virus by Reverse Transcription-PCR Using Armored RNA

PubMed Central

Jia, Tingting; Zhang, Lei; Wang, Guojing; Zhang, Rui; Zhang, Kuo; Lin, Guigao; Xie, Jiehong; Wang, Lunan; Li, Jinming

2015-01-01

In recent years, nucleic acid tests for detection of measles virus RNA have been widely applied in laboratories belonging to the measles surveillance system of China. An external quality assessment program was established by the National Center for Clinical Laboratories to evaluate the performance of nucleic acid tests for measles virus. The external quality assessment panel, which consisted of 10 specimens, was prepared using armored RNAs, complex of noninfectious MS2 bacteriophage coat proteins encapsulated RNA of measles virus, as measles virus surrogate controls. Conserved sequences amplified from a circulating measles virus strain or from a vaccine strain were encapsulated into these armored RNAs. Forty-one participating laboratories from 15 provinces, municipalities, or autonomous regions that currently conduct molecular detection of measles virus enrolled in the external quality assessment program, including 40 measles surveillance system laboratories and one diagnostic reagent manufacturer. Forty laboratories used commercial reverse transcription-quantitative PCR kits, with only one laboratory applying a conventional PCR method developed in-house. The results indicated that most of the participants (38/41, 92.7%) were able to accurately detect the panel with 100% sensitivity and 100% specificity. Although a wide range of commercially available kits for nucleic acid extraction and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction were used by the participants, only two false-negative results and one false-positive result were generated; these were generated by three separate laboratories. Both false-negative results were obtained with tests performed on specimens with the lowest concentration (1.2 × 104 genomic equivalents/mL). In addition, all 18 participants from Beijing achieved 100% sensitivity and 100% specificity. Overall, we conclude that the majority of the laboratories evaluated have reliable diagnostic capacities for the detection of measles virus
External Quality Assessment for the Detection of Measles Virus by Reverse Transcription-PCR Using Armored RNA.

PubMed

Zhang, Dong; Sun, Yu; Jia, Tingting; Zhang, Lei; Wang, Guojing; Zhang, Rui; Zhang, Kuo; Lin, Guigao; Xie, Jiehong; Wang, Lunan; Li, Jinming

2015-01-01

In recent years, nucleic acid tests for detection of measles virus RNA have been widely applied in laboratories belonging to the measles surveillance system of China. An external quality assessment program was established by the National Center for Clinical Laboratories to evaluate the performance of nucleic acid tests for measles virus. The external quality assessment panel, which consisted of 10 specimens, was prepared using armored RNAs, complex of noninfectious MS2 bacteriophage coat proteins encapsulated RNA of measles virus, as measles virus surrogate controls. Conserved sequences amplified from a circulating measles virus strain or from a vaccine strain were encapsulated into these armored RNAs. Forty-one participating laboratories from 15 provinces, municipalities, or autonomous regions that currently conduct molecular detection of measles virus enrolled in the external quality assessment program, including 40 measles surveillance system laboratories and one diagnostic reagent manufacturer. Forty laboratories used commercial reverse transcription-quantitative PCR kits, with only one laboratory applying a conventional PCR method developed in-house. The results indicated that most of the participants (38/41, 92.7%) were able to accurately detect the panel with 100% sensitivity and 100% specificity. Although a wide range of commercially available kits for nucleic acid extraction and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction were used by the participants, only two false-negative results and one false-positive result were generated; these were generated by three separate laboratories. Both false-negative results were obtained with tests performed on specimens with the lowest concentration (1.2 × 104 genomic equivalents/mL). In addition, all 18 participants from Beijing achieved 100% sensitivity and 100% specificity. Overall, we conclude that the majority of the laboratories evaluated have reliable diagnostic capacities for the detection of measles virus.
Sol-gel synthesis of K{sub 3}InF{sub 6} and structural characterization of K{sub 2}InC{sub 10}O{sub 10}H{sub 6}F{sub 9}, K{sub 3}InC{sub 12}O{sub 14}H{sub 4}F{sub 18} and K{sub 3}InC{sub 12}O{sub 12}F{sub 18}

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

Labeguerie, Jessica; Gredin, Patrick; Marrot, Jerome

2005-10-15

K{sub 3}InF{sub 6} is synthesized by a sol-gel route starting from indium and potassium acetates dissolved in isopropanol in the stoichiometry 1:3, with trifluoroacetic acid as fluorinating agent. The crystal structures of the organic precursors were solved by X-ray diffraction methods on single crystals. Three organic compounds were isolated and identified: K{sub 2}InC{sub 10}O{sub 10}H{sub 6}F{sub 9}, K{sub 3}InC{sub 12}O{sub 14}H{sub 4}F{sub 18} and K{sub 3}InC{sub 12}O{sub 12}F{sub 18}. The first one, deficient in potassium in comparison with the initial stoichiometry, is unstable. In its crystal structure, acetate as well as trifluoroacetate anions are coordinated to the indium atom. Themore » two other precursors are obtained, respectively, by quick and slow evaporation of the solution. They correspond to the final organic compounds, which give K{sub 3}InF{sub 6} by decomposition at high temperature. The crystal structure of K{sub 3}InC{sub 12}O{sub 14}H{sub 4}F{sub 18} is characterized by complex anions [In(CF{sub 3}COO){sub 4}(OH{sub x}){sub 2}]{sup (5-2x)-} and isolated [CF{sub 3}COOH{sub 2-x}]{sup (x-1)-} molecules with x=2 or 1, surrounded by K{sup +} cations. The crystal structure of K{sub 3}InC{sub 12}O{sub 12}F{sub 18} is only constituted by complex anions [In(CF{sub 3}COO){sub 6}]{sup 3-} and K{sup +} cations. For all these compounds, potassium cations ensure only the electroneutrality of the structure. IR spectra of K{sub 2}InC{sub 10}O{sub 10}H{sub 6}F{sub 9} and K{sub 3}InC{sub 12}O{sub 12}F{sub 18} were also performed at room temperature on pulverized crystals.« less
External Quality Arrangements for the Review of Modern Apprenticeship Off-the-Job Training

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Education Scotland, 2015

2015-01-01

This publication provides a quality framework to provide a structure for external review of Modern Apprenticeship off-the-job training.? The indicators in this framework are arranged under three key principles, addressing five questions which Education Scotland is adopting for evaluation purposes. These are underpinned by a wider principle on the…
External Validation of the Acoustic Voice Quality Index Version 03.01 With Extended Representativity.

PubMed

Barsties, Ben; Maryn, Youri

2016-07-01

The Acoustic Voice Quality Index (AVQI) is an objective method to quantify the severity of overall voice quality in concatenated continuous speech and sustained phonation segments. Recently, AVQI was successfully modified to be more representative and ecologically valid because the internal consistency of AVQI was balanced out through equal proportion of the 2 speech types. The present investigation aims to explore its external validation in a large data set. An expert panel of 12 speech-language therapists rated the voice quality of 1058 concatenated voice samples varying from normophonia to severe dysphonia. The Spearman rank-order correlation coefficients (r) were used to measure concurrent validity. The AVQI's diagnostic accuracy was evaluated with several estimates of its receiver operating characteristics (ROC). Finally, 8 of the 12 experts were chosen because of reliability criteria. A strong correlation was identified between AVQI and auditoryperceptual rating (r = 0.815, P = .000). It indicated that 66.4% of the auditory-perceptual rating's variation was explained by AVQI. Additionally, the ROC results showed again the best diagnostic outcome at a threshold of AVQI = 2.43. This study highlights external validation and diagnostic precision of the AVQI version 03.01 as a robust and ecologically valid measurement to objectify voice quality. © The Author(s) 2016.
Evaluation of 6-([18F] fluoroacetamido)-1-hexanoic-anilide (18F-FAHA) as imaging probe in tumor xenograft mice model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Fiona; Cho, Sung Ju; Yu, Lihai; Hudson, Robert H. E.; Luyt, Leonard G.; Pin, Christopher L.; Kovacs, Michael S.; Koropatnick, James; Lee, Ting-Yim

2016-03-01

Alteration in genetic expression is as important as gene mutation in cancer development and proliferation. Epigenetic changes affect gene expression without altering the DNA sequence. Histone deacetylase (HDAC), an enzyme facilitating histone remodelling, can lead to silencing of tumor suppressor genes making HDAC inhibitors viable anticancer drugs against tumors with increased activity of the enzyme. In this study we evaluated 18F-fluroacetamido-1-hexanoicanilide (18F-FAHA), an artificial HDAC substrate, as imaging probe of HDAC activity of human tumor xenografts in immunocompromised host mice. Human breast and melanoma cell lines, MDA-MB-468 and MDA-MB-435 respectively, known to overexpress HDAC activity were xenografted into immunocompromised mice and HDAC activity was imaged using 18F-FAHA. The melanoma group was treated with saline, SAHA (suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid, an approved anticancer HDAC inhibitor) in DMSO, or DMSO as positive control. Tracer kinetic modelling and SUV were used to estimate HDAC activity from dynamic PET data. Both breast tumor and melanoma group showed great variability in binding rate constant (BRC) of 18F-FAHA suggesting highly variable inter- and intra-tumoral HDAC activity. For the SAHA treated melanoma group, HDAC activity, as monitored by BRC of 18F-FAHA, decreased more than the two (positive and negative) control groups but not tumor growth. Our preliminary study showed that noninvasive PET imaging with 18F-FAHA has the potential to identify patients for whom treatment with HDAC inhibitors are appropriate, to assess the effectiveness of that treatment as an early marker of target reduction, and also eliminate the need for invasive tissue biopsy to individualize treatment.
Function of Coenzyme F420 in Aerobic Catabolism of 2,4,6-Trinitrophenol and 2,4-Dinitrophenol by Nocardioides simplex FJ2-1A

PubMed Central

Ebert, Sybille; Rieger, Paul-Gerhard; Knackmuss, Hans-Joachim

1999-01-01

2,4,6-Trinitrophenol (picric acid) and 2,4-dinitrophenol were readily biodegraded by the strain Nocardioides simplex FJ2-1A. Aerobic bacterial degradation of these π-electron-deficient aromatic compounds is initiated by hydrogenation at the aromatic ring. A two-component enzyme system was identified which catalyzes hydride transfer to picric acid and 2,4-dinitrophenol. Enzymatic activity was dependent on NADPH and coenzyme F420. The latter could be replaced by an authentic preparation of coenzyme F420 from Methanobacterium thermoautotrophicum. One of the protein components functions as a NADPH-dependent F420 reductase. A second component is a hydride transferase which transfers hydride from reduced coenzyme F420 to the aromatic system of the nitrophenols. The N-terminal sequence of the F420 reductase showed high homology with an F420-dependent NADP reductase found in archaea. In contrast, no N-terminal similarity to any known protein was found for the hydride-transferring enzyme. PMID:10217752
External quality assessment of malaria microscopy in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Background External quality assessments (EQA) are an alternative to cross-checking of blood slides in the quality control of malaria microscopy. This study reports the findings of an EQA of malaria microscopy in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Methods After validation, an EQA slide panel and a questionnaire were delivered to diagnostic laboratories in four provinces of DRC. The panel included three samples for diagnosis (sample 1: Plasmodium falciparum, 177,000/μl, sample 2: P. falciparum, 2,500/μl, sample 3: no parasites seen), one didactic sample (Howell-Jolly bodies) and one sample for assessing the quality of staining. Participating laboratories were addressed and selected through the network of the National Tuberculosis Control Programme. Participants were asked to return the responses together with a stained thin and thick blood film for evaluation of Giemsa stain quality. Results Among 174 participants (response rate 95.1%), 26.2% scored samples 1, 2 and 3 correctly and 34.3%, 21.5% and 5.8% of participants reported major errors in one, two or three samples respectively. Major errors included reporting "no malaria" or "non-falciparum malaria" for Plasmodium falciparum-positive samples 1 and 2 (16.1% and 34.9% of participants respectively) and "P. falciparum" for Plasmodium negative sample 3 (24.0%). Howell-Jolly bodies (didactic sample) were not recognized by any of the participants but reported as "P. falciparum" by 16.7% of participants. With parasite density expressed according to the "plus system", 16.1% and 21.5% of participants scored one "+" different from the reference score for samples 1 and 2 respectively and 9.7% and 2.9% participants scored more than two "+" different. When expressed as counts of asexual parasites/μl, more than two-thirds of results were outside the mean ± 2SD reference values. The quality of the Giemsa stain was poor, with less than 20% slides complying with all criteria assessed. Only one quarter of participants
The effect of study type on body weight and tumor incidence in B6C3F1 mice fed the NTP-2000 diet.

PubMed

Marino, Dale J

2012-07-01

The B6C3F1 mouse is the standard mouse strain used in National Toxicology Program (NTP) carcinogenesis studies. Over time, increased liver tumorigenesis that was correlated with elevated body weights was noted in males and females. NTP therefore replaced the NIH-07 diet with the NTP-2000 diet and returned to group housing of females as lower body weights were noted in group housed mice. However, recent studies reported study-type differences in body weights at 3 months using the NTP-2000 diet with higher weights evident in drinking water and inhalation studies compared to feed studies. Therefore, body weight and tumor incidence data were collected for untreated control mice from all 2-year NTP feed (12), drinking water (8), water gavage (6) and inhalation (10) studies that used the NTP-2000 diet in order to assess the impact of study type on body weights and tumor incidences. Results show statistically significant elevated body weights and liver tumor incidences in males and females from drinking water, water gavage and inhalation studies compared to results from feed studies. Thus, the elevated body weights and liver tumorigenesis noted in mice using the NIH-07 diet were also evident using the NTP-2000 diet, which was introduced to address body weight elevations. Given the study-type dependent effects noted, these results emphasize the importance of carefully selecting historical control data for B6C3F1 mice. Moreover, because of the association between body weight and liver tumorigenesis, these results may have implications regarding dose-level selection for carcinogenicity studies involving B6C3F1 mice based on the maximum tolerated dose.
Caspase-6 Activation in Familial Alzheimer Disease Brains Carrying Amyloid Precursor Protein, Presenilin I or Presenilin II Mutations

PubMed Central

Albrecht, Steffen; Bogdanovic, Nenad; Ghetti, Bernardino; Winblad, Bengt; LeBlanc, Andréa C.

2010-01-01

We previously demonstrated the activation of Caspase-6 in the hippocampus and cortex in cases of mild, moderate, severe and very severe Alzheimer disease (AD). To determine whether Caspase-6 is also activated in familial AD, we performed an immunohistochemical analysis of active Caspase-6 and Tau cleaved by Caspase-6 in temporal cortex and hippocampal tissue sections from cases of familial AD. The cases included 5 carrying the amyloid precursor protein K670N, M671L Swedish mutation, 1 carrying the amyloid precursor protein E693G Arctic mutation, 2 each carrying the Presenilin I M146V, F105L, A431E, V261F, Y115C mutations, and 1 with the Presenilin II N141I mutation. Active Caspase-6 immunoreactivity was found in all cases. Caspase-6 immunoreactivity was observed in neuritic plaques or cotton wool plaques in some cases, neuropil threads and neurofibrillary tangles. These results indicate that Caspase-6 is activated in familial forms of AD, as previously observed in sporadic forms. Since sporadic and familial AD cases have similar pathological features, these results support a fundamental role of Caspase-6 in the pathophysiology of both familial and sporadic AD. PMID:19915487
40 CFR 130.6 - Water quality management plans.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 23 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Water quality management plans. 130.6 Section 130.6 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) WATER PROGRAMS WATER QUALITY PLANNING AND MANAGEMENT § 130.6 Water quality management plans. (a) Water quality management (WQM...
40 CFR 130.6 - Water quality management plans.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 23 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Water quality management plans. 130.6 Section 130.6 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) WATER PROGRAMS WATER QUALITY PLANNING AND MANAGEMENT § 130.6 Water quality management plans. (a) Water quality management (WQM...
40 CFR 130.6 - Water quality management plans.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 22 2014-07-01 2013-07-01 true Water quality management plans. 130.6 Section 130.6 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) WATER PROGRAMS WATER QUALITY PLANNING AND MANAGEMENT § 130.6 Water quality management plans. (a) Water quality management (WQM...
Alcoholic Fractions F5 and F6 from Withania somnifera Leaves Show a Potent Antileishmanial and Immunomodulatory Activities to Control Experimental Visceral Leishmaniasis

PubMed Central

Chandrasekaran, Sambamurthy; Veronica, Jalaja; Sundar, Shyam; Maurya, Radheshyam

2017-01-01

Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) causes fatal life-threatening disease, if left untreated. The current drugs have various limitations; hence, natural products from medicinal plants are being focused in search of new drugs to treat leishmaniasis. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the antileishmanial and immunomodulatory activities of F5 and F6 alcoholic fractions from Withania somnifera leaves and purified withaferin-A in Leishmania donovani-infected peritoneal macrophages and BALB/c mice. We observed that F5 (15 µg/mL), F6 (10 µg/mL), and withaferin-A (1.5 µM) reduce amastigote count in peritoneal macrophages and induce reactive oxygen species and significant decrease in IL-10 mRNA expression compared to control upon treatment. Subsequently, in vivo study mice were treated with F5 (25 and 50 mg/kg b.wt.), F6 (25 and 50 mg/kg b.wt.) orally, and withaferin-A (2 mg/kg b.wt.) intraperitoneally for 10 consecutive days and a drastic reduction in parasite burden in both spleen and liver were observed. The treatment resulted in the reduction in IL-10, IL-4, and TGF-β mRNA expression and a significant increase in IFN-γ/IL-10 expression ratio in the treated group compared to control. The humoral response of these alcoholic fractions and withaferin-A shows increased IgG2a levels when compared with IgG1 in treated mice. Taken together, our result concludes that withanolides in alcoholic fractions demonstrate a potent antileishmanial and immunomodulatory activities in experimental VL. PMID:28553635
Pathology of Serially Sacrificed Female B6C3F1 Mice Continuously Exposed to Very Low-Dose-Rate Gamma Rays.

PubMed

Tanaka, I B; Komura, J; Tanaka, S

2017-03-01

We have previously reported on life span shortening as well as increased incidence rates in several neoplasms in B6C3F1 mice that were continuously exposed to 21 mGy/day of gamma rays for 400 days. To clarify whether the life shortening was due to early appearance of neoplasms (shortened latency) or increased promotion/progression, 8-week-old female specific-pathogen-free B6C3F1 mice were gamma-ray irradiated at a low dose rate of 20 mGy/day for 400 days. At 100 days postirradiation, 60-90 mice were sacrificed, and thereafter every 100 days alongside the age-matched nonirradiated controls, for 700 days. Additional groups were allowed to live out their natural life span. Pathological examination was performed on all mice to identify lesions, non-neoplastic and neoplastic, as well as to determine the cause of death. Body weights were significantly increased in irradiated mice from sacrifice days 200-500. Incidence rates for spontaneously occurring non-neoplastic lesions, such as adrenal subcapsular cell hyperplasia, fatty degeneration of the liver, atrophy and tubulostromal hyperplasia of the ovaries, were significantly increased in irradiated mice. Significantly increased incidence rates with no shortening of latency periods were observed in irradiated mice for malignant lymphomas, hepatocellular adenomas/carcinomas, bronchioloalveolar adenomas, harderian gland adenoma/adenocarcinoma. Shortened latencies with significantly increased incidence rates were observed for adrenal subcapsular cell adenomas and ovarian neoplasms (tubulostromal adenoma, granulosa cell tumors) in irradiated mice. Life span shortening in mice exposed to 20 mGy/day was mostly due to malignant lymphomas. Multiple primary neoplasms were significantly increased in mice exposed to 20 mGy/day from sacrifice days 400-700 and in the life span group. Our results confirm that continuous low-dose-rate gamma-ray irradiation of female B6C3F1 mice causes both cancer induction (shortened latency) and
Fluorometric determination of Vibrio parahaemolyticus using an F0F1-ATPase-based aptamer and labeled chromatophores.

PubMed

Duan, Nuo; Wu, Shijia; Zhang, Huiling; Zou, Ying; Wang, Zhouping

2018-05-18

An F 0 F 1 -ATPase-based aptasensor is described for the fluorometric determination of Vibrio parahaemolyticus. Chromatophores containing F 0 F 1 -ATPases were first prepared from Rhodospirillum rubrum cells. Then, an aptamer-functionalized chromatophore acts as the capture probe, and a chromatophore labeled with the pH probe fluorescein acts as the signalling probe. In the presence of V. parahaemolyticus, the rotation rate of F 0 F 1 -ATPase is decreased due to the formation of the aptamer-chromatophore complex. This leads to a retarded proton flux out of the chromatophores. As a result, the pH value inside the chromatophores is reduced, and the fluorescence of the pH probe F1300 is accordingly decreased. The relative fluorescence varies linearly over the 15 to 1.5 × 10 6 cfu·mL -1 Vibrio parahaemolyticus concentration range, and the limit of detection is 15 cfu·mL -1 . The method was applied to analyze artificially contaminated salmon samples where it showed excellent perfomance. Graphical abstract In this assay, aptamer functionalized chromatophores act as a capture probe, and the fluoresce in labeled chromatophores as signalling probe. The formation of aptamer-chromatophore complex leads to a retarded proton flux out of the chromatophores. As a result, the pH value inside the chromatophores is reduced, and fluorescence intensity is accordingly decreased.
Co-infection of turkeys with Escherichia coli (O78) and H6N1 avian influenza virus.

PubMed

Umar, Sajid; Delverdier, Maxence; Delpont, Mattias; Belkasmi, Sakhia F Z; Teillaud, Angélique; Bleuart, Céline; Pardo, Isabelle; El Houadfi, Mohammed; Guérin, Jean-Luc; Ducatez, Mariette F

2018-06-01

Respiratory diseases are responsible for major economic losses in poultry farms. While in most cases a single pathogen is not alone responsible for the clinical outcome, the impact of co-infections is not well known, especially in turkeys. The purpose of this study was to assess the possible synergism between Escherichia coli (O78) and low pathogenic avian influenza virus (LPAIV, H6N1), in the turkey model. Four-week-old commercial turkeys were inoculated with either H6N1, O78 or both agents simultaneously or three days apart. We have established an experimental infection model of turkeys using aerosolization that better mimics field infections. Birds were observed clinically and swabbed on a daily basis. Necropsies were performed at 4 and 14 days post single or dual inoculation and followed by histological and immunohistochemical analyses. Combined LPAIV/E. coli infections resulted in more severe clinical signs, were associated with higher mortality and respiratory organ lesions (mucous or fibrinous exudative material in lungs and air sacs), in comparison with the groups given single infections (P < 0.05). The time interval or the sequence between H6N1 and E. coli inoculation (none or three days) did not have a significant effect on the outcome of the dual infection and disease although slightly greater (P > 0.05) respiratory signs were observed in turkeys of the E. coli followed by H6N1 inoculated group. Microscopic lesions and immunohistochemical staining supported clinical and macroscopic findings. Efficient virus and bacteria replication was observed in all inoculated groups. E. coli and H6N1 thus exercise an additive or synergistic pathogenic effect in the reproduction of respiratory disease.
Mutagenicity of furan in female Big Blue B6C3F1 mice

PubMed Central

Terrell, Ashley N.; Huynh, Mailee; Grill, Alex E.; Kovi, Ramesh C.; O’Sullivan, M. Gerard; Guttenplan, Joseph B.; Ho, Yen-Yi; Peterson, Lisa A.

2014-01-01

Furan is an abundant food and environmental contaminant that is a potent liver carcinogen in rodent models. To determine if furan is genotoxic in vivo, female B6C3F1 Big Blue transgenic mice were treated with 15 mg/kg bw furan by gavage 5 days a week for 6 weeks, or once weekly for 3 weeks. Liver cII trans-gene mutation-frequency and mutation spectra were determined. Furan did not increase the mutation frequency under either treatment condition. In the 6-week treatment regimen, there was a change in the cII transgene mutation-spectrum, with the fraction of GC to AT transitions significantly reduced. The only other significant change was an increase in GC to CG transversions; these represented a minor contribution to the overall mutation spectrum. A much larger furan-dependent shift was observed in the 3-week study. There was a significant increase in transversion mutations, predominantly GC to TA transversions as well as smaller non-significant changes in GC to CG and AT to TA transversions. To determine if these mutations were caused by cis-2-butene-1,4-dial (BDA), a reactive metabolite of furan, the mutagenic activity and the mutation spectrum of BDA was determined in vitro, in Big Blue mouse embryonic fibroblasts. This compound did not increase the cII gene mutation-frequency but caused a substantial increase in AT to CG transversions. This increase, however, lost statistical significance when adjusted for multiple comparisons. Together, these findings suggest that BDA may not be directly responsible for the in-vivo effects of furan on mutational spectra. Histopathological analysis of livers from furan-treated mice revealed that furan induced multifocal, hepatocellular necrosis admixed with reactive leukocytes and pigment-laden Kupffer cells, enhanced oval-cell hyperplasia, and increased hepatocyte mitoses, some of which were atypical. An indirect mechanism of genotoxicity is proposed in which chronic toxicity followed by inflammation and secondary cell
SiglecF+Gr1hi eosinophils are a distinct subpopulation within the lungs of allergen-challenged mice.

PubMed

Percopo, Caroline M; Brenner, Todd A; Ma, Michelle; Kraemer, Laura S; Hakeem, Reem M A; Lee, James J; Rosenberg, Helene F

2017-01-01

Although eosinophils as a group are readily identified by their unique morphology and staining properties, flow cytometry provides an important means for identification of subgroups based on differential expression of distinct surface Ags. Here, we characterize an eosinophil subpopulation defined by high levels of expression of the neutrophil Ag Gr1 (CD45 + CD11c - SiglecF + Gr1 hi ). SiglecF + Gr1 hi eosinophils, distinct from the canonical SiglecF + Gr1 - eosinophil population, were detected in allergen-challenged wild-type and granule protein-deficient (EPX -/- and MBP-1 -/- ) mice, but not in the eosinophil-deficient ΔdblGATA strain. In contrast to Gr1 + neutrophils, which express both cross-reacting Ags Ly6C and Ly6G, SiglecF + Gr1 hi eosinophils from allergen-challenged lung tissue are uniquely Ly6G + Although indistinguishable from the more-numerous SiglecF + Gr1 - eosinophils under light microscopy, FACS-isolated populations revealed prominent differences in cytokine contents. The lymphocyte-targeting cytokines CXCL13 and IL-27 were identified only in the SiglecF + Gr1 hi eosinophil population (at 3.9 and 4.8 pg/10 6 cells, respectively), as was the prominent proinflammatory mediator IL-13 (72 pg/10 6 cells). Interestingly, bone marrow-derived (SiglecF + ), cultured eosinophils include a more substantial Gr1 + subpopulation (∼50%); Gr1 + bmEos includes primarily a single Ly6C + and a smaller, double-positive (Ly6C + Ly6G + ) population. Taken together, our findings characterize a distinct SiglecF + Gr1 hi eosinophil subset in lungs of allergen-challenged, wild-type and granule protein-deficient mice. SiglecF + Gr1 hi eosinophils from wild-type mice maintain a distinct subset of cytokines, including those active on B and T lymphocytes. These cytokines may facilitate eosinophil-mediated immunomodulatory responses in the allergen-challenged lung as well as in other distinct microenvironments. © Society for Leukocyte Biology.

RAS screening in colorectal cancer: a comprehensive analysis of the results from the UK NEQAS colorectal cancer external quality assurance schemes (2009-2016).

PubMed

Richman, Susan D; Fairley, Jennifer; Butler, Rachel; Deans, Zandra C

2017-12-01

Evidence strongly indicates that extended RAS testing should be undertaken in mCRC patients, prior to prescribing anti-EGFR therapies. With more laboratories implementing testing, the requirement for External Quality Assurance schemes increases, thus ensuring high standards of molecular analysis. Data was analysed from 15 United Kingdom National External Quality Assessment Service (UK NEQAS) for Molecular Genetics Colorectal cancer external quality assurance (EQA) schemes, delivered between 2009 and 2016. Laboratories were provided annually with nine colorectal tumour samples for genotyping. Information on methodology and extent of testing coverage was requested, and scores given for genotyping, interpretation and clerical accuracy. There has been a sixfold increase in laboratory participation (18 in 2009 to 108 in 2016). For RAS genotyping, fewer laboratories now use Roche cobas®, pyrosequencing and Sanger sequencing, with more moving to next generation sequencing (NGS). NGS is the most commonly employed technology for BRAF and PIK3CA mutation screening. KRAS genotyping errors were seen in ≤10% laboratories, until the 2014-2015 scheme, when there was an increase to 16.7%, corresponding to a large increase in scheme participants. NRAS genotyping errors peaked at 25.6% in the first 2015-2016 scheme but subsequently dropped to below 5%. Interpretation and clerical accuracy scores have been consistently good throughout. Within this EQA scheme, we have observed that the quality of molecular analysis for colorectal cancer has continued to improve, despite changes in the required targets, the volume of testing and the technologies employed. It is reassuring to know that laboratories clearly recognise the importance of participating in EQA schemes.
Remedial Investigation Report, Presidio Main Installation, Presidio of San Francisco. Volume 6: Appendices A-F

DTIC Science & Technology

1997-01-01

Version 1 .0 )9-/77 Background data analysis Az. CdB . C t_ I eF2 G S21.4 Cal-Ba Method• detection limit Mediki czi.ii- 23.6 Cl-B O.. 13.9ol DATA15 Ca...E F G H T2 4124 CoI-Cr TTL5 i.2 305 0-0 Ca=Lonomllmen97.534 Create ineprt 41.1 Cal-Cr ENTER DATA 7 J42,8251 Histogram 41.2 Wa-0 IT 42.1 Cdct Ditibto
External Theory for Stochastic Processes.

DTIC Science & Technology

1985-11-01

1.2 1.4 1.8 11111125 11.I6 MICROCOP RESOLUTION TEST CHART M.. MW’ PAPI ~ W W ’W IV AV a a W 4 * S6 _ ~.. r dV . Unclassif’ DA 7 4 9JT FILE COPY...intensity measure has the Laplace : <-f Transform L (f)=exp(-x (l-e - f ) whereas a Compound Poisson Process has Laplace Transform (2.3.1) L (f...see Example 2.2.4 as an illustration of this). The result is a clustering of exceedances, leading to a compounding of events in the limiting point
SULFURHEXAFLUORIDE (SF6) VERSUS PERFLUOROPROPANE (C3F8) GAS AS TAMPONADE IN MACULAR HOLE SURGERY.

PubMed

Modi, Aditya; Giridhar, Anantharaman; Gopalakrishnan, Mahesh

2017-02-01

To compare outcomes of macular hole surgery using sulfurhexafluoride (SF6) versus perfluoropropane (C3F8) gas. This is a retrospective, interventional, comparative study. A total of 177 eyes of 166 patients operated over a 3-year period for idiopathic macular holes were included. Sixty-seven eyes had tamponade with SF6 gas (Group 1), whereas 111 eyes received C3F8 (Group 2) as the tamponading agent. The primary outcome measure was the macular hole closure rate. Statistical analysis was done using SPSSv16. Spectral domain optical coherence tomography-based stagewise distribution of macular holes were similar across both groups (P = 0.99). The hole closure rate was 57/66 (86.4%) with SF6 and 96/111 (86.5%) with C3F8 gas (P = 0.98). Subanalysis demonstrated no significant difference in closure rates regarding macular hole size, stage, or duration. Best-corrected visual acuity improved by a mean of 0.28 logMAR in the SF6 group (P = 0.00) and 0.42 logMAR in the C3F8 group, corresponding to 3 lines and 4 lines of improvement, respectively, on the Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study chart (P < 0.05). The difference was not significant (P = 0.06). Rise in intraocular pressure was higher in the C3F8 group (P < 0.05). Progression of cataract was also greater in the C3F8 group (83.3 vs.73.9%), but it was not statistically significant (P = 0.20). Resurgery was done in 9/177 eyes. The closure rate with C3F8 and SF6 reinjections was 3/4 (75%) and 1/5 (20%). Moreover, anatomical hole closure after resurgeries was better in Group 1 (4/5 eyes) than in Group 2 (0/4 eyes). The macular hole closure rate was similar with sulfurhexafluoride and perfluoropropane, irrespective of hole size, stage, or duration. However, sulfurhexafluoride exhibited a decreased incidence of cataract and ocular hypertension with shorter tamponade duration. Perfluoropropane may have a role as the preferred endotamponading agent in failed primary surgeries.
Tg.rasH2 Mice and not CByB6F1 Mice Should Be Used for 28-Day Dose Range Finding Studies Prior to 26-Week Tg.rasH2 Carcinogenicity Studies.

PubMed

Paranjpe, Madhav G; Belich, Jessica; Vidmar, Tom J; Elbekai, Reem H; McKeon, Marie; Brown, Caren

Our recent retrospective analysis of data, collected from 29 Tg.rasH2 mouse carcinogenicity studies, determined how successful the strategy of choosing the high dose for the 26-week studies was based on the estimated maximum tolerated dose (EMTD) derived from earlier 28-day dose range finding (DRF) studies conducted in CByB6F1 mice. Our analysis demonstrated that the high doses applied at EMTD in the 26-week Tg.rasH2 studies failed to detect carcinogenic effects. To investigate why the dose selection process failed in the 26-week carcinogenicity studies, the initial body weights, terminal body weights, body weight gains, food consumption, and mortality from the first 4 weeks of 26-week studies with Tg.rasH2 mice were compared with 28-day DRF studies conducted with CByB6F1 mice. Both the 26-week and the earlier respective 28-day studies were conducted with the exact same vehicle, test article, and similar dose levels. The analysis of our results further emphasizes that the EMTD and subsequent lower doses, determined on the basis of the 28-day studies in CByB6F1 mice, may not be an accurate strategy for selecting appropriate dose levels for the 26-week carcinogenicity studies in Tg.rasH2 mice. Based on the analysis presented in this article, we propose that the Tg.rasH2 mice and not the CByB6F1 mice should be used in future DRF studies. The Tg.rasH2 mice demonstrate more toxicity than the CByB6F1 mice, possibly because of their smaller size compared to CByB6F1 mice. Also, the Tg.rasH2 males appear to be more sensitive than the female Tg.rasH2 mice.
We are Family: the Conformations of 1-FLUOROALKANES, C_nH2n+1F (n = 2,3,4,5,6,7,8)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Obenchain, Daniel A.; Orellana, W.; Cooke, S. A.

2016-06-01

he pure rotational spectra of the n = 5, 6, 7, and 8 members of the 1-fluoroalkane family have been recorded between 7 GHz and 14 GHz using chirped pulse Fourier transform microwave spectroscopy. The spectra have been analyzed and results will be presented and compared with previous work on the n= 2, 3, and 4 members. The lowest energy conformer for all family members has the common feature that the fluorine is in a gauche position relative to the alkyl tail for which all other heavy atom dihedral angles, where appropriate, are 180 degrees. For the n = 3 and higher family members the second lowest energy conformer has all heavy atom dihedral angles equal to 180 degrees. For each family member transitions carried by both low energy conformers were observed in the collected rotational spectra. Quantum chemical calculations were performed and trends in the energy separations between these two common conformers will be presented as a function of chain length. Furthermore, longer chain lengths have been examined using only quantum chemical calculations and results will be presented. M. Hayashi, M. Fujitake, T. Inagusa, S. Miyazaki, J.Mol.Struct., 216, 9-26, 1990 W. Caminati, A. C. Fantoni, F. Manescalchi, F. Scappini, Mol.Phys., 64, 1089 ,1988 L. B. Favero, A. Maris, A. Degli Esposti, P. G. Favero, W. Caminati, G. Pawelke, Chem.Eur.J., 6(16), 3018-3025, 2000
External radioactive markers for PET data-driven respiratory gating in positron emission tomography.

PubMed

Büther, Florian; Ernst, Iris; Hamill, James; Eich, Hans T; Schober, Otmar; Schäfers, Michael; Schäfers, Klaus P

2013-04-01

Respiratory gating is an established approach to overcoming respiration-induced image artefacts in PET. Of special interest in this respect are raw PET data-driven gating methods which do not require additional hardware to acquire respiratory signals during the scan. However, these methods rely heavily on the quality of the acquired PET data (statistical properties, data contrast, etc.). We therefore combined external radioactive markers with data-driven respiratory gating in PET/CT. The feasibility and accuracy of this approach was studied for [(18)F]FDG PET/CT imaging in patients with malignant liver and lung lesions. PET data from 30 patients with abdominal or thoracic [(18)F]FDG-positive lesions (primary tumours or metastases) were included in this prospective study. The patients underwent a 10-min list-mode PET scan with a single bed position following a standard clinical whole-body [(18)F]FDG PET/CT scan. During this scan, one to three radioactive point sources (either (22)Na or (18)F, 50-100 kBq) in a dedicated holder were attached the patient's abdomen. The list mode data acquired were retrospectively analysed for respiratory signals using established data-driven gating approaches and additionally by tracking the motion of the point sources in sinogram space. Gated reconstructions were examined qualitatively, in terms of the amount of respiratory displacement and in respect of changes in local image intensity in the gated images. The presence of the external markers did not affect whole-body PET/CT image quality. Tracking of the markers led to characteristic respiratory curves in all patients. Applying these curves for gated reconstructions resulted in images in which motion was well resolved. Quantitatively, the performance of the external marker-based approach was similar to that of the best intrinsic data-driven methods. Overall, the gain in measured tumour uptake from the nongated to the gated images indicating successful removal of respiratory motion
We Can't Go Home Again: Insights from a Quarter Century of Experiments in External Academic Quality Assurance

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dill, David D.

2010-01-01

What have we learned from 25 years of experience with external academic quality assurance that can help design more effective framework conditions for assuring academic standards? The key elements appear to be the structure and means of evaluating national academic quality assurance agencies, the nature of academic quality information mandated by…
18F-FDG PET/CT oncologic imaging at extended injection-to-scan acquisition time intervals derived from a single-institution 18F-FDG-directed surgery experience: feasibility and quantification of 18F-FDG accumulation within 18F-FDG-avid lesions and background tissues

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) is a well-established imaging modality for a wide variety of solid malignancies. Currently, only limited data exists regarding the utility of PET/CT imaging at very extended injection-to-scan acquisition times. The current retrospective data analysis assessed the feasibility and quantification of diagnostic 18F-FDG PET/CT oncologic imaging at extended injection-to-scan acquisition time intervals. Methods 18F-FDG-avid lesions (not surgically manipulated or altered during 18F-FDG-directed surgery, and visualized both on preoperative and postoperative 18F-FDG PET/CT imaging) and corresponding background tissues were assessed for 18F-FDG accumulation on same-day preoperative and postoperative 18F-FDG PET/CT imaging. Multiple patient variables and 18F-FDG-avid lesion variables were examined. Results For the 32 18F-FDG-avid lesions making up the final 18F-FDG-avid lesion data set (from among 7 patients), the mean injection-to-scan times of the preoperative and postoperative 18F-FDG PET/CT scans were 73 (±3, 70-78) and 530 (±79, 413-739) minutes, respectively (P < 0.001). The preoperative and postoperative mean 18F-FDG-avid lesion SUVmax values were 7.7 (±4.0, 3.6-19.5) and 11.3 (±6.0, 4.1-29.2), respectively (P < 0.001). The preoperative and postoperative mean background SUVmax values were 2.3 (±0.6, 1.0-3.2) and 2.1 (±0.6, 1.0-3.3), respectively (P = 0.017). The preoperative and postoperative mean lesion-to-background SUVmax ratios were 3.7 (±2.3, 1.5-9.8) and 5.8 (±3.6, 1.6-16.2), respectively, (P < 0.001). Conclusions 18F-FDG PET/CT oncologic imaging can be successfully performed at extended injection-to-scan acquisition time intervals of up to approximately 5 half-lives for 18F-FDG while maintaining good/adequate diagnostic image quality. The resultant increase in the 18F-FDG-avid lesion SUVmax values, decreased background SUVmax values, and
Toward development of a comprehensive external quality assurance program for polyfunctional intracellular cytokine staining assays

PubMed Central

Staats, Janet S.; Enzor, Jennifer H.; Sanchez, Ana M.; Rountree, Wes; Chan, Cliburn; Jaimes, Maria; Chan, Ray Chun-Fai; Gaur, Amitabh; Denny, Thomas N.; Weinhold, Kent J.

2014-01-01

The External Quality Assurance Program Oversight Laboratory (EQAPOL) Flow Cytometry Program assesses the proficiency of NIH/NIAID/DAIDS-supported and potentially other interested research laboratories in performing Intracellular Cytokine Staining (ICS) assays. The goal of the EQAPOL Flow Cytometry External Quality Assurance Program (EQAP) is to provide proficiency testing and remediation for participating sites. The program is not punitive; rather, EQAPOL aims to help sites identify areas for improvement. EQAPOL utilizes a highly standardized ICS assay to minimize variability and readily identify those sites experiencing technical difficulties with their assays. Here, we report the results of External Proficiency 3 (EP3) where participating sites performed a 7-color ICS assay. On average, sites perform well in the Flow Cytometry EQAP (median score is “Good”). The most common technical issues identified by the program involve protocol adherence and data analysis; these areas have been the focus of site remediation. The EQAPOL Flow Cytometry team is now in the process of expanding the program to 8-color ICS assays. Evaluating polyfunctional ICS responses would align the program with assays currently being performed in support of HIV immune monitoring assays. PMID:24968072
Immunohistochemical demonstration of EphA2 processing by MT1-MMP in invasive cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma.

PubMed

Tatsukawa, Ryoko; Koga, Kaori; Aoki, Mikiko; Koshikawa, Naohiko; Imafuku, Shinichi; Nakayama, Juichiro; Nabeshima, Kazuki

2016-07-01

Erythropoietin-producing hepatocellular receptor-2 (EphA2) overexpression is prevalent in many types of human cancers, and it has been reported that high EphA2 expression is correlated with malignancy. Recent studies revealed that processing of EphA2 by cleaving off the N-terminal portion by membrane-type 1 matrix metalloproteinase (MT1-MMP) promotes invasion via stimulation of Ras in cancer cells in vitro. The objectives of this study were to investigate the presence and role of EphA2 processing in cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) tissues. EphA2 (C-terminal and N-terminal) and MT1-MMP expression patterns and levels were analyzed immunohistochemically in SCC (n = 70) and Bowen disease (BD; n = 20). Levels of MT1-MMP and EphA2 expression were evaluated using digital image analysis. Proximity between MT1-MMP and EphA2 in cancer cells and its effect on EphA2 processing were investigated using a combination of in situ proximity ligation assay (PLA) and Western blotting. Immunohistochemical analyses showed that levels of EphA2 N-terminal expression were significantly lower than those of EphA2 C-terminal expression in SCC, whereas levels of EphA2 C- and N-terminal expression were similar in BD. Western blotting showed processed EphA2 fragments in human SCC tissues. Expression levels of MT1-MMP, EphA2, and processed EphA2 fragments were higher in SCC than BD. Proximity between MT1-MMP and EphA2 in SCC was demonstrated by in situ PLA. Our results suggest possible involvement of MT1-MMP processing of EphA2 in invasiveness of cutaneous SCC.
The Unexpectedly Bright Comet C-2012 F6 (Lemmon) Unveiled at Near-Infrared Wavelengths

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Paganini, Lucas; Disanti, Michael A.; Mumma, Michael J.; Villanueva, Geronimo L.; Bonev, Boncho P.; Keane, Jacqueline V.; Gibb, Erika L.; Boehnhardt, Hermann; Meech, Karen J.

2013-01-01

We acquired near-infrared spectra of the Oort cloud comet C/2012 F6 (Lemmon) at three different heliocentric distances (R h) during the comet's 2013 perihelion passage, providing a comprehensive measure of the outgassing behavior of parent volatiles and cosmogonic indicators. Our observations were performed pre-perihelion at R h = 1.2 AU with CRIRES (on 2013 February 2 and 4), and post-perihelion at R h = 0.75 AU with CSHELL (on March 31 and April 1) and R h = 1.74 AU with NIRSPEC (on June 20). We detected 10 volatile species (H2O, OH* prompt emission, C2H6, CH3OH, H2CO, HCN, CO, CH4, NH3, and NH2), and obtained upper limits for two others (C2H2 and HDO). One-dimensional spatial profiles displayed different distributions for some volatiles, confirming either the existence of polar and apolar ices, or of chemically distinct active vents in the nucleus. The ortho-para ratio for water was 3.31 +/- 0.33 (weighted mean of CRIRES and NIRSPEC results), implying a spin temperature >37 K at the 95% confidence limit. Our (3s) upper limit for HDO corresponds to D/H < 2.45 × 10-3 (i.e., <16 Vienna Standard Mean Ocean Water, VSMOW). At R h = 1.2 AU (CRIRES), the production rate for water was Q(H2O) = 1.9 +/- 0.1 × 1029 s-1 and its rotational temperature was T rot 69 K. At R h = 0.75 AU (CSHELL), we measured Q(H2O) = 4.6 +/- 0.6 × 1029 s-1 and T rot = 80 K on March 31, and 6.6 +/- 0.9 × 1029 s-1 and T rot = 100 K on April 1. At R h = 1.74 AU (NIRSPEC), we obtained Q(H2O) = 1.1 +/- 0.1 × 1029 s-1 and T rot 50 K. The measured volatile abundance ratios classify comet C/2012 F6 as rather depleted in C2H6 and CH3OH, while HCN, CH4, and CO displayed abundances close to their median values found among comets. H2CO was the only volatile showing a relative enhancement. The relative paucity of C2H6 and CH3OH (with respect to H2O) suggests formation within warm regions of the nebula. However, the normal abundance of HCN and hypervolatiles CH4 and CO, and the enhancement of H2CO, may
Clinical, morphologic, and immunohistochemical features of canine orbital hibernomas.

PubMed

Ravi, M; Schobert, C S; Kiupel, M; Dubielzig, R R

2014-05-01

Hibernomas are uncommon benign tumors of brown fat that occur in humans and various animal species. They have not been observed in the orbit of dogs, humans, or other animals. Here we report clinical, light and electron microscopic, and immunohistochemical features of a series of 7 hibernomas arising in the orbital region of dogs. These neoplasms occurred in adult dogs with no breed predilection. The mean age of the affected dogs was 10.4 years (range, 8-13 years). All neoplasms presented as soft lobular masses composed of predominantly round or polygonal neoplastic cells with granular eosinophilic and vacuolated cytoplasm resembling adipocytes. The cytoplasm contained large numbers of pleomorphic mitochondria with dense matrices and indistinct cristae. Immunohistochemical evaluation confirmed positive labeling of neoplastic cells from all cases with uncoupling protein 1 (UCP-1) consistent with brown fat differentiation. Interestingly, rare neoplastic cells also expressed myogenin and myoD, possibly suggesting a common progenitor cell for neoplastic brown adipose and skeletal muscle cells.
40 CFR 130.6 - Water quality management plans.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 21 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Water quality management plans. 130.6... QUALITY PLANNING AND MANAGEMENT § 130.6 Water quality management plans. (a) Water quality management (WQM... and certified and approved updates to those plans. Continuing water quality planning shall be based...
The dark side of the immunohistochemical moon: industry.

PubMed

Kalyuzhny, Alexander E

2009-12-01

Modern biological research is dependent on tools developed and provided by commercial suppliers, and antibodies for immunohistochemistry are among the most frequently used of these tools. Not all commercial antibodies perform as expected, however; this problem leads researchers to waste time and money when using antibodies that perform inadequately. Different commercial suppliers offer antibodies of varying degrees of quality and, in some cases, are unable to provide expert technical support for the immunohistochemical use of their antibodies. This article briefly describes the production of commercial antibodies from the manufacturer's perspective and presents some guidelines for choosing appropriate commercial antibodies for immunohistochemistry. Additionally, the article suggests steps to establish mutually beneficial relationships between commercial antibody suppliers and researchers who use them.
Homeostasis 6: nurses as external control agents in rheumatoid arthritis.

PubMed

Clancy, John; McVicar, Andrew; Mooney, Janice

All disorders involve a disturbance of cellular and hence chemical function in the body. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic, systemic, inflammatory disease that usually attacks synovial joints and surrounding ligaments, muscles and their tendons and blood vessels. This article applies the concept of health professionals operating as external agents of homeostatic control (Clancy and McVicar, 20011a; 2011b) to RA and to the care of affected patients, using a case scenario to illustrate attempts to minimize homeostatic imbalances. After reading the article, nurses should be able to understand: how the principles of homeostatic theory apply to skeletomuscular function, in particular to synovial joint function; the skeletomuscular homeostatic role in movement; and that homeostatic failure of reduced mobility, as in RA, is a result of nature-nurture interaction; that illness arises from a cellular, hence chemical, homeostatic imbalance(s) (Clancy and McVicar, 2011a; 2011b; 2011c; 2011d; 2011e). RA is considered a cellular (B-lymphocyte) hence chemical (autoantibody) imbalance that causes the homeostatic imbalances (inflammatory pain, reduced mobility, reduced activities of daily living) associated with the condition. Health professionals are able at act as external agents of homeostatic control to only a limited extent when caring for people with RA because, as with any progressive disorder, they will only be managing signs and symptoms to improve patients' quality of life.
40 CFR Appendix F to Part 132 - Great Lakes Water Quality Initiative Implementation Procedures

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... use of this methodology may be found in the Great Lakes Water Quality Initiative Technical Support... (CONTINUED) WATER PROGRAMS WATER QUALITY GUIDANCE FOR THE GREAT LAKES SYSTEM Pt. 132, App. F Appendix F to... that is freely dissolved in the ambient water is different than that used to derive the system-wide...
40 CFR Appendix F to Part 132 - Great Lakes Water Quality Initiative Implementation Procedures

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... use of this methodology may be found in the Great Lakes Water Quality Initiative Technical Support... (CONTINUED) WATER PROGRAMS WATER QUALITY GUIDANCE FOR THE GREAT LAKES SYSTEM Pt. 132, App. F Appendix F to... that is freely dissolved in the ambient water is different than that used to derive the system-wide...
Thalidomide enhances both primary and secondary host resistances to Listeria monocytogenes infection by a neutrophil-related mechanism in female B6C3F1 mice

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

Guo, Tai L.; Chi, Rui P.; Karrow, Niel A.

2005-12-15

Previously, we have reported that thalidomide can modulate the immune responses in female B6C3F1 mice. Furthermore, thalidomide immunomodulation increased primary host resistance to intravenously infected Listeria monocytogenes. The present study was intended to evaluate the mechanisms underlying the enhanced host resistance to L. monocytogenes by focusing on the neutrophils. Female B6C3F1 mice were treated intraperitoneally with thalidomide (100 mg/kg) for 15 days. Exposure to thalidomide increased the numbers of neutrophils in the spleens and livers of L. monocytogenes-infected mice when compared to the L. monocytogenes-infected control mice. Additionally, the percentage of neutrophils was also significantly increased after Thd treatment inmore » L. monocytogenes-infected mice. Further studies using antibodies to deplete corresponding cells indicated that thalidomide-mediated increase in primary host resistance (both the moribundity and colony counts in the liver and spleen) to L. monocytogenes infection was due to its effect on neutrophils but not CD8{sup +} T cells or NK cells. Finally, Thd exposure also increased host resistance to secondary host resistance to L. monocytogenes infection, and depletion of neutrophils abolished the protective effect. In conclusion, thalidomide enhanced host resistance to both primary and secondary L. monocytogenes infections by a neutrophil-related mechanism in female B6C3F1 mice.« less
Determinants of Quality Perception in Educational Administration: Potential Conflict between the Requirements of Internal and External Customers.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Galloway, R. L.; Wearn, Katrina

1998-01-01

Attempts to measure perceived quality, based on customers' views within the context of a (British) university faculty office, using a modified SERVQUAL instrument. Internal customers demonstrated that perceived quality is driven by task-focused issues, stressing clarity, accuracy, and reliability. External customers, whose usage is more casual,…

Prenatal diethylstilbestrol induces malformation of the external genitalia of male and female mice and persistent second-generation developmental abnormalities of the external genitalia in two mouse strains

PubMed Central

Mahawong, Phitsanu; Sinclair, Adriane; Li, Yi; Schlomer, Bruce; Rodriguez, Esequiel; Max, Ferretti M.; Liu, Baomei; Baskin, Laurence S.; Cunha, Gerald R.

2014-01-01

Potential trans-generational influence of diethylstilbestrol (DES) exposure emerged with reports of effects in grandchildren of DES-treated pregnant women and of reproductive tract tumors in offspring of mice exposed in utero to DES. Accordingly, we examined the trans-generational influence of DES on development of external genitalia (ExG) and compared effects of in utero DES exposure in CD-1 and C57BL/6 mice injected with oil or DES every other day from gestational days 12 to 18. Mice were examined at birth, and on 5 to 120 days postnatal to evaluate ExG malformations. Of 23 adult (≥60 days) prenatally DES-exposed males, features indicative of urethral meatal hypospadias (see text for definitions) ranged from 18 to 100% in prenatally DES-exposed CD-1 males and 31 to 100% in prenatally DES-exposed C57BL/6 males. Thus, the strains differed in the incidence of male urethral hypospadias. Ninety-one percent of DES-exposed CD-1 females and 100% of DES-exposed C57BL/6 females had urethral-vaginal fistula. All DES-exposed CD-1 and C57BL/6 females lacked an os clitoris. None of the prenatally oil-treated CD-1 and C57BL/6 male and female mice had ExG malformations. For the second-generation study, 10 adult CD-1 males and females, from oil- and DES-exposed groups, respectively, were paired with untreated CD-1 mice for 30 days, and their offspring evaluated for ExG malformations. None of the F1 DES-treated females were fertile. Nine of 10 prenatally DES-exposed CD-1 males sired offspring with untreated females, producing 55 male and 42 female pups. Of the F2 DES-lineage adult males, 20% had exposed urethral flaps, a criterion of urethral meatal hypospadias. Five of 42 (11.9%) F2 DES lineage females had urethral-vaginal fistula. In contrast, all F2 oil-lineage males and all oil-lineage females were normal. Thus, prenatal DES exposure induces malformations of ExG in both sexes and strains of mice, and certain malformations are transmitted to the second-generation. PMID
Photoluminescence of A- and B-site Eu{sup 3+}-substituted (Sr{sub x}Ba{sub 1−x}){sub 2}CaW{sub y}Mo{sub 1−y}O{sub 6} phosphors

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

Sletnes, M.; Lindgren, M.; Valmalette, J.C.

The photoluminescence of two series of A- and B-site Eu{sup 3+} substituted (Sr{sub x}Ba{sub 1−x}){sub 2}CaW{sub y}Mo{sub 1−y}O{sub 6} double perovskite phosphor materials, (Sr{sub x}Ba{sub 1−x}){sub 1.96}Eu{sub 0.02}K{sub 0.02}CaW{sub y}Mo{sub 1−y}O{sub 6} and (Sr{sub x}Ba{sub 1−x}){sub 2}Ca{sub 0.96}Eu{sub 0.02}Li{sub 0.02}W{sub y}Mo{sub 1−y}O{sub 6} (x and y=0, 0.25, 0.50, 0.75, and 1), were studied systematically as a function of stoichiometry and crystal structure. The Eu{sup 3+} lattice sites controlled by co-doping with either K or Li were confirmed by Raman spectroscopy. The variation in integrated emission intensity and emission colour over the experimental matrix was examined using statistical tools, and themore » observed trends were rationalized based on the physical and electronic structure of the phosphors. Phosphors with Eu on B-site with maximum Sr content had remarkably higher emission intensities than all other materials, but the emission was more orange than red due to domination of the {sup 5}D{sub 0}–{sup 7}F{sub 1} (595 nm) transition of Eu{sup 3+}. The relative intensities of the {sup 5}D{sub 0}–{sup 7}F{sub 2} (615 nm) and {sup 5}D{sub 0}–{sup 7}F{sub 1} transitions of Eu{sup 3+}, and thus the red-shift of the emission, decreased linearly with increasing Sr content in the A-site Eu-substituted phosphors, and reached a maximum for Sr{sub 1.96}Eu{sub 0.02}K{sub 0.02}CaW{sub 0.25}Mo{sub 0.75}O{sub 6}. A maximum external quantum efficiency of 17% was obtained for the phosphor Sr{sub 2}Ca{sub 0.7}Eu{sub 0.15}Li{sub 0.15}W{sub 0.5}Mo{sub 0.5}O{sub 6} with Eu on B-site. - Highlights: • Systematic study of the photoluminescence of Eu{sup 3+}-doped (Sr{sub x}Ba{sub 1−x}){sub 2}CaW{sub y}Mo{sub 1−y}O{sub 6}. • The Eu{sup 3+} lattice sites were confirmed by Raman spectroscopy. • A large parameter space was investigated using statistical tools. • A maximum external QE of 17% was obtained for Sr{sub 2}Ca{sub 0.7}Eu{sub 0
Carcinogenicity of glycidamide in B6C3F1 mice and F344/N rats from a two-year drinking water exposure.

PubMed

Beland, Frederick A; Olson, Greg R; Mendoza, Maria C B; Marques, M Matilde; Doerge, Daniel R

2015-12-01

Acrylamide is a contaminant in baked and fried starchy foods, roasted coffee, and cigarette smoke. Previously we reported that acrylamide is a multi-organ carcinogen in B6C3F1 mice and F344/N rats, and hypothesized that acrylamide is activated to an ultimate carcinogen through metabolism to the epoxide glycidamide. We have now examined the carcinogenic effects of glycidamide administered at 0, 0.0875, 0.175, 0.35 and 0.70 mM in drinking water to the same strains of rodents for two years. In male and female mice, there were significant increases in tumors of the Harderian gland, lung, forestomach, and skin. Female mice also had an increased incidence of tumors of the mammary gland and ovary. In male and female rats, there were significant increases in thyroid gland and oral cavity neoplasms and mononuclear cell leukemia. Male rats also had increases in tumors of the epididymis/testes and heart, while female rats demonstrated increases in tumors of the mammary gland, clitoral gland, and forestomach. A similar spectrum of tumors was obtained in mice and rats administered acrylamide. These data indicate that, under the conditions of these bioassays, acrylamide is efficiently metabolized to glycidamide and that the carcinogenic activity of acrylamide is due to its conversion into glycidamide. Published by Elsevier Ltd.
External quality assurance in nongynecologic cytology: The Australasian experience.

PubMed

Shield, Paul W; Frost, Felicity; Finnimore, Jo L; Wright, R Gordon; Cummings, Margaret C

2017-05-01

The Royal College of Pathologists of Australasia Cytopathology Quality Assurance Program has operated an external quality assurance program in nongynecologic cytopathology since 1993. Glass slide preparations of a wide range of nongynecologic cases were circulated to approximately 200 cytopathology laboratories in 16 countries. General nongynecologic cytology cases were manufactured from residual specimens after routine diagnosis. Fine-needle aspiration (FNA) cases were made by sampling fresh tissue and making direct specimens. The majority of cases consisted of both air-dried and fixed preparations. Results returned to laboratories included illustrated case discussions highlighting diagnostic features, key differential diagnoses, and useful adjunctive tests. The current study reviewed >22,000 results for 123 nongynecologic cases. Cases found to cause the most diagnostic difficulties included serous effusion cases with metastatic carcinoma in a dispersed pattern, well-differentiated carcinoma, and cellular reactive cases; urine specimens with sparse malignant cells; reactive pneumocytes in a bronchoalveolar lavage; breast FNA cases with papillary lesions; gestational specimens; and fibroadenoma. FNA specimens from the lung and thyroid, particularly papillary thyroid carcinoma, generally were well reported. The use of multiple preparations of the same specimen has allowed interlaboratory comparison, and the quality assurance program has played an educational role as well as informing the laboratory accreditation process. Cancer Cytopathol 2017;125:349-361. © 2017 American Cancer Society. © 2017 American Cancer Society.
Improving the Optical Quality Factor of the WGM Resonator

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Savchenkov, Anatoliy; Matsko, Andrey; Iltchenko, Vladimir

2008-01-01

Resonators usually are characterized with two partially dependent values: finesse (F) and quality factor (Q). The finesse of an empty Fabry-Perot (FP) resonator is defined solely by the quality of its mirrors and is calculated as F=piR(exp 1/2)/(1-R). The maximum up-to-date value of reflectivity R approximately equal to 1 - 1.6 x 10(exp -6) is achieved with dielectric mirrors. An FP resonator made with the mirrors has finesse F=1.9 x 10(exp 6). Further practical increase of the finesse of FP resonators is problematic because of the absorption and the scattering of light in the mirror material through fundamental limit on the reflection losses given by the internal material losses and by thermodynamic density fluctuations on the order of parts in 109. The quality factor of a resonator depends on both its finesse and its geometrical size. A one-dimensional FP resonator has Q=2 F L/lambda, where L is the distance between the mirrors and lambda is the wavelength. It is easy to see that the quality factor of the resonator is unlimited because L is unlimited. F and Q are equally important. In some cases, finesse is technically more valuable than the quality factor. For instance, buildup of the optical power inside the resonator, as well as the Purcell factor, is proportional to finesse. Sometimes, however, the quality factor is more valuable. For example, inverse threshold power of intracavity hyperparametric oscillation is proportional to Q(exp 2) and efficiency of parametric frequency mixing is proportional to Q(exp 3). Therefore, it is important to know both the maximally achievable finesse and quality factor values of a resonator. Whispering gallery mode (WGM) resonators are capable of achieving larger finesse compared to FP resonators. For instance, fused silica resonators with finesse 2.3 x 10(exp 6) and 2.8 x 10(exp 6) have been demonstrated. Crystalline WGM resonators reveal even larger finesse values, F=6.3 x 10(exp 6), because of low attenuation of light in the
Parameters to Maximize 2f2-f1 Distortion Product Otoacoustic Emission Levels

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Horn, Jennifer H.; Pratt, Shiela R.; Durrant, John D.

2008-01-01

Purpose: Past research has established parameters for the 2f1-f2 distortion product otoacoustic emissions (DPOAEs) that enhance response levels (e.g., L1 - L2 = 10 dB; f2/f1 = 1.22; L1, L2 = 65, 55 dB SPL). These same parameters do not optimize 2f2-f1 DPOAEs. Therefore, this study was conducted to evaluate more completely those parameters that…
40 CFR Table F-6 to Subpart F of... - Estimated Mass Concentration Measurement of PM2.5 for Idealized Fine Aerosol Size Distribution

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 5 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Estimated Mass Concentration... Equivalent Methods for PM2.5 Pt. 53, Subpt. F, Table F-6 Table F-6 to Subpart F of Part 53—Estimated Mass... (µm) Test Sampler Fractional Sampling Effectiveness Interval Mass Concentration (µg/m3) Estimated Mass...
40 CFR Table F-6 to Subpart F of... - Estimated Mass Concentration Measurement of PM2.5 for Idealized Fine Aerosol Size Distribution

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 5 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Estimated Mass Concentration... Equivalent Methods for PM2.5 Pt. 53, Subpt. F, Table F-6 Table F-6 to Subpart F of Part 53—Estimated Mass... (µm) Test Sampler Fractional Sampling Effectiveness Interval Mass Concentration (µg/m3) Estimated Mass...
M2-F1 cockpit

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1963-01-01

This photo shows the cockpit configuration of the M2-F1 wingless lifting body. With a top speed of about 120 knots, the M2-F1 had a simple instrument panel. Besides the panel itself, the ribs of the wooden shell (left) and the control stick (center) are also visible. The wingless, lifting body aircraft design was initially conceived as a means of landing an aircraft horizontally after atmospheric reentry. The absence of wings would make the extreme heat of re-entry less damaging to the vehicle. In 1962, Dryden management approved a program to build a lightweight, unpowered lifting body as a prototype to flight test the wingless concept. It would look like a 'flying bathtub,' and was designated the M2-F1, the 'M' referring to 'manned' and 'F' referring to 'flight' version. It featured a plywood shell placed over a tubular steel frame crafted at Dryden. Construction was completed in 1963. The first flight tests of the M2-F1 were over Rogers Dry Lake at the end of a tow rope attached to a hopped-up Pontiac convertible driven at speeds up to about 120 mph. This vehicle needed to be able to tow the M2-F1 on the Rogers Dry Lakebed adjacent to NASA's Flight Research Center (FRC) at a minimum speed of 100 miles per hour. To do that, it had to handle the 400-pound pull of the M2-F1. Walter 'Whitey' Whiteside, who was a retired Air Force maintenance officer working in the FRC's Flight Operations Division, was a dirt-bike rider and hot-rodder. Together with Boyden 'Bud' Bearce in the Procurement and Supply Branch of the FRC, Whitey acquired a Pontiac Catalina convertible with the largest engine available. He took the car to Bill Straup's renowned hot-rod shop near Long Beach for modification. With a special gearbox and racing slicks, the Pontiac could tow the 1,000-pound M2-F1 110 miles per hour in 30 seconds. It proved adequate for the roughly 400 car tows that got the M2-F1 airborne to prove it could fly safely and to train pilots before they were towed behind a C-47
Highly Stable K2SiF6:Mn4+@K2SiF6 Composite Phosphor with Narrow Red Emission for White LEDs.

PubMed

Huang, Lin; Liu, Yong; Yu, Jinbo; Zhu, Yiwen; Pan, Fengjuan; Xuan, Tongtong; Brik, Mikhail G; Wang, Chengxin; Wang, Jing

2018-05-30

Poor water resistance and nongreen synthesis remain great challenges for commercial narrow red-emitting phosphor A 2 MF 6 :Mn 4+ (A = alkali metal ion; M = Si, Ge, Ti) for solid-state lighting and display. We develop here a simple and green growth route to synthesize homogeneous red-emitting composite phosphor K 2 SiF 6 :Mn 4+ @K 2 SiF 6 (KSFM@KSF) with excellent water resistance and high efficiency without the usage of toxic and volatile hydrogen fluoride solution. After immersing into water for 6 h, the as-obtained water-resistant products maintain 76% of the original emission intensity, whereas the emission intensity of non-water-resistant ones steeply drops down to 11%. A remarkable result is that after having kept at 85% humidity and at 85 °C for 504 h (21 days), the emission intensity of the as-obtained water-resistant products is at 80-90%, from its initial value, which is 2-3 times higher than 30-40% for the non-water-resistant products. The surface deactivation-enabled growth mechanism for these phosphors was proposed and investigated in detail. We found that nontoxic H 3 PO 4 /H 2 O 2 aqueous solution promotes the releasing and decomposition of the surface [MnF 6 ] 2- ions and the transformation of the KSFM surface to KSF, which finally contributes to the homogeneous KSFM@KSF composite structure. This composite structure strategy was also successfully used to treat KSFM phosphor prepared by other methods. We believe that the results obtained in the present paper will open the pathway for the large-scale environmentally friendly synthesis of the excellent antimoisture narrow red-emitting A 2 MF 6 :Mn 4+ phosphor to be used for white light-emitting diode applications.
External quality assessment for CD4 + T-lymphocyte count test

PubMed Central

Gaspar, Pâmela Cristina; Wohlke, Bruna Lovizutto Protti; Brunialti, Milena Karina Coló; Pires, Ana Flávia; Kohiyama, Igor Massaki; Salomão, Reinaldo; Alonso Neto, José Boullosa; Júnior, Orlando da Costa Ferreira; Franchini, Miriam; Bazzo, Maria Luiza; Benzaken, Adele Schwartz

2018-01-01

Abstract The National Network for CD4+ T-lymphocyte counting of Brazil comprises 93 laboratories. This study reports the laboratory performances achieved in external quality assessment (EQA) rounds provides by Ministry of Health to evaluate the quality of the kits used and the performance of test by the technicians. Ten EQA rounds were analyzed according the EQA criteria aimed to evaluate individual laboratory performance on the basis of the accuracy of their results compared to the general mean obtained by all participating laboratories and the reproducibility of the results obtained between 2 samples from the same donor. The percentage of approved and failed laboratories in the EQAs tends to follow a uniform pattern. Since 2011, approval has remained above 80% and the failure rate has never exceeded 15%. EQA is very important to evaluate the performance of the laboratories, to identify monitor, and to resolve errors as quickly as possible. PMID:29794603
Assessing the Organisational Impact of External Quality Assurance: Hypothesising Key Dimensions and Mechanisms

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Stensaker, Bjørn; Leiber, Theodor

2015-01-01

The aim of the article is to provide a framework in which the organisational impact of external quality assurance (EQA) can be assessed. Based on existing studies of the impact of EQA in universities and colleges it is suggested that greater systematisation of how impact is measured is needed for a better understanding of how EQA can be used as a…
Examination of orbital tissues in murine models of Graves' disease reveals expression of UCP-1 and the TSHR in retrobulbar adipose tissues.

PubMed

Johnson, K T M; Wiesweg, B; Schott, M; Ehlers, M; Müller, M; Minich, W B; Nagayama, Y; Gulbins, E; Eckstein, A K; Berchner-Pfannschmidt, U

2013-06-01

Over the past decade a number of murine models of Graves' disease (GD) have been described. The full symptom complex, including typical orbital changes, however, could not yet be induced. In this report, we examined the influence of modified immunization protocols on orbital pathology. C57BL/6 and BALB/c mice were immunized against the human TSH receptor (TSHR), using either a TSHR encoding plasmid or a TSHR A-subunit adenovirus. Prior to immunization with the TSHR plasmid, regulatory T cells were depleted in one group of each strain. TSHR-stimulating antibodies (TSAbs) were evaluated and orbits were stained immunohistochemically for F4/80, uncoupling protein-1 (UCP-1) and the TSHR. We found that after depletion of regulatory T cells, incidence of TSAb was increased in TSHR plasmid immunized C57BL/6 mice. Examination of early immunized mice showed no antibody production. However, a TSHR epitope-specific cellular immune response could be detected by tetramer-analyses. Adenoviral immunization lead to TSAb production in all but one animal. Analysis of F4/80 positive cells in retrobulbar fat revealed no significant macrophage infiltration in the orbits of immunized mice. Immunohistochemical staining shows co-localization of F4/80 positive cells, UCP-1 and the TSHR in retrobulbar fat. Though targets for TSHR autoimmunity could clearly be shown, immunization methods were not efficient enough to cause clear signs of orbital inflammation. © Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.
Cross-Diels-Alder reactions of 6-oxo-1-sulfonyl-1,6-dihydropyridine-3-carboxylates.

PubMed

Teyssot, Marie-Laure; Lormier, Anh-Tuan; Chataigner, Isabelle; Piettre, Serge R

2007-03-30

Electron-poor 6-oxo-1-sulfonyl-1,6-dihydropyridine-3-carboxylates 1b-d undergo cross-Diels-Alder reactions with electron-rich dienes 4a-f under hyperbaric conditions, reacting either as dienophiles to yield normal-electron-demand (NED) cycloadducts 10 and/or 11 or as dienes to give inverse-electron-demand (IED) cycloadducts 12 and/or 13. The latter are converted into 14 and/or 15 through an NED cycloaddition with a second equivalent of electron-rich diene. Acyclic dienes display a propensity to yield NED products, whereas cyclic dienes tend to favor IED cycloadducts. High-pressure activation compares favorably with thermal or microwave activation in terms of both yields and suppression of the transformation of 1 into unreactive pyridines 3. Whereas the Cope rearrangement from IED to NED occurs under thermal conditions, no evidence of its involvement under high pressure could be detected. These and other data point to similar activation energies for the NED and IED processes under these conditions.
External quality assessment for EGFR mutations in Italy: improvements in performances over the time.

PubMed

Normanno, Nicola; Fenizia, Francesca; Castiglione, Francesca; Barberis, Massimo; Taddei, Gian Luigi; Truini, Mauro; De Rosa, Gaetano; Pinto, Carmine; Marchetti, Antonio

2017-01-01

External quality assessment (EQA) schemes are essential procedures to assess the quality level of laboratories performing molecular testing of the epidermal growth factor receptor ( EGFR ) gene in non-small cell lung cancer. The Italian Association of Medical Oncology (AIOM) and the Italian Society of Pathology (SIAPEC-IAP) organise EGFR EQA programmes to ensure that the Italian laboratories achieve the quality standard levels required. Comparing the 2011, 2013 and 2015 EGFR EQA schemes, it was possible to observe improvements in the methodologies used and the outcomes. The use of direct sequencing was reduced from 78.7% in 2011 to only 14.1% in 2015, whereas the use of pyrosequencing and real-time PCR increased. The number of rounds in which centres using direct sequencing failed was significantly higher than the number of rounds that failed using other methods, both when analysing each single scheme and when combining the three EQAs together. In 2011 and 2013, about 29% of the participants failed the first phase of the programmes, compared with the 13% of centres failing in 2015, suggesting that the switch to more sensitive and robust methods could allow to increase the percentage of good performers. Although the molecular analyses are performed with good quality in Italy, the continuous education carried out by AIOM and SIAPEC-IAP remains a fundamental tool to maintain this quality level.
External quality assessment for EGFR mutations in Italy: improvements in performances over the time

PubMed Central

Normanno, Nicola; Fenizia, Francesca; Castiglione, Francesca; Barberis, Massimo; Taddei, Gian Luigi; Truini, Mauro; De Rosa, Gaetano; Pinto, Carmine; Marchetti, Antonio

2017-01-01

External quality assessment (EQA) schemes are essential procedures to assess the quality level of laboratories performing molecular testing of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) gene in non-small cell lung cancer. The Italian Association of Medical Oncology (AIOM) and the Italian Society of Pathology (SIAPEC-IAP) organise EGFR EQA programmes to ensure that the Italian laboratories achieve the quality standard levels required. Comparing the 2011, 2013 and 2015 EGFR EQA schemes, it was possible to observe improvements in the methodologies used and the outcomes. The use of direct sequencing was reduced from 78.7% in 2011 to only 14.1% in 2015, whereas the use of pyrosequencing and real-time PCR increased. The number of rounds in which centres using direct sequencing failed was significantly higher than the number of rounds that failed using other methods, both when analysing each single scheme and when combining the three EQAs together. In 2011 and 2013, about 29% of the participants failed the first phase of the programmes, compared with the 13% of centres failing in 2015, suggesting that the switch to more sensitive and robust methods could allow to increase the percentage of good performers. Although the molecular analyses are performed with good quality in Italy, the continuous education carried out by AIOM and SIAPEC-IAP remains a fundamental tool to maintain this quality level. PMID:29181190
THE INDUCTION OF HEPATOCELLULAR NEOPLASIA BY TRICHLOROACETIC ACID ADMINISTERED IN THE DRINKING WATER OF THE MALE B6C3F1 MOUSE

EPA Science Inventory

Summary What is the study? The study is a chronic bioassay (2 years) of trichloroacetic acid, a drinking water disinfection by-product, in the male B6C3F1 mouse.
What is the impact to the field and the Agency?
The impact of this study will derive from the use of...
DIFFERING HEPATOTOXICITY AND LETHALITY AFTER SUBACUTE TRICHLOROETHYLENE EXPOSURE IN AQUEOUS OR CORN OIL GAVAGE VEHICLES IN B6C3F1 MICE

EPA Science Inventory

Subacute toxicity of trichloroethylene (TCE) was evaluated in male and female B6C3F1 mice using corn oil or aqueous gavage vehicles. Mice received oral doses of TCE five times a week for 4 weeks at 600, 1200 and 2400 mg/kg/day for males and 450, 900 and 1800 mg/kg/day for females...
SiglecF+Gr1hi eosinophils are a distinct subpopulation within the lungs of allergen-challenged mice

PubMed Central

Percopo, Caroline M.; Brenner, Todd A.; Ma, Michelle; Kraemer, Laura S.; Hakeem, Reem M. A.; Lee, James J.; Rosenberg, Helene F.

2017-01-01

Although eosinophils as a group are readily identified by their unique morphology and staining properties, flow cytometry provides an important means for identification of subgroups based on differential expression of distinct surface Ags. Here, we characterize an eosinophil subpopulation defined by high levels of expression of the neutrophil Ag Gr1 (CD45+CD11c−SiglecF+Gr1hi). SiglecF+Gr1hi eosinophils, distinct from the canonical SiglecF+Gr1− eosinophil population, were detected in allergen-challenged wild-type and granule protein-deficient (EPX−/− and MBP-1−/−) mice, but not in the eosinophil-deficient ΔdblGATA strain. In contrast to Gr1+ neutrophils, which express both cross-reacting Ags Ly6C and Ly6G, SiglecF+Gr1hi eosinophils from allergen-challenged lung tissue are uniquely Ly6G+. Although indistinguishable from the more-numerous SiglecF+Gr1− eosinophils under light microscopy, FACS-isolated populations revealed prominent differences in cytokine contents. The lymphocyte-targeting cytokines CXCL13 and IL-27 were identified only in the SiglecF+Gr1hi eosinophil population (at 3.9 and 4.8 pg/106 cells, respectively), as was the prominent proinflammatory mediator IL-13 (72 pg/106 cells). Interestingly, bone marrow-derived (SiglecF+), cultured eosinophils include a more substantial Gr1+ subpopulation (∼50%); Gr1+ bmEos includes primarily a single Ly6C+ and a smaller, double-positive (Ly6C+Ly6G+) population. Taken together, our findings characterize a distinct SiglecF+Gr1hi eosinophil subset in lungs of allergen-challenged, wild-type and granule protein-deficient mice. SiglecF+Gr1hi eosinophils from wild-type mice maintain a distinct subset of cytokines, including those active on B and T lymphocytes. These cytokines may facilitate eosinophil-mediated immunomodulatory responses in the allergen-challenged lung as well as in other distinct microenvironments. PMID:27531929
A TWO-YEAR DOSE-RESPONSE STUDY OF LESION SEQUENCES DURING HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOGENESIS IN THE MALE B6C3F1 MOUSE GIVEN THE DRINKING WATER CHEMICAL DICHLOROACETIC ACID

EPA Science Inventory

ABSTRACT

Dichloroacetic acid (DCA) is carcinogenic to the B6C3F 1 mouse and the F344 rat. Given the carcinogenic potential of DCA in rodent liver, and the known concentrations of this compound in drinking water, reliable biologically-based models to reduce the uncertai...

Verification of Production Hole Quality. Volume 1

DTIC Science & Technology

1977-11-01

good metallurgical quality in that the surfaces...V < -< .. w / / ^1 -! .. 2 tf / / M O D E : A X IA F R E Q U E N C Y O R IE N T A T IO T E M P E R A T U n/ OJ / in o r | / / 0/ 0...i H / I 2 < 1. 1 u « 1 L Y S IS - O P - A X IA L S C • .0. u ^ 1 1 ^ 1 H 1 M 1 -1 1 n 1 1 0 <-
Ntp report on the toxicity studies of ethylbenzene in f344/n rats and b6c3f1 mice (inhalation studies). Report for 29 March-30 June 1988

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

Chan, P.

1992-03-01

Inhalation toxicology studies of ethylbenzene (99% pure) were conducted by exposing groups of F344/N rats and B6C3F1 mice of each sex to ethylbenzene vapor at chamber concentrations of 0 to 1000 ppm, 6 hours per day, 5 days per week for 13 weeks. No rats or mice died during the 13-week exposure. Body weight gains were slightly lower in the high dose groups of male and female rats, but the differences were not statistically significant. Absolute and relative kidney, liver, and lung weights were increased in the exposed rats, while weight increases occurred only in the livers of exposed mice.more » No changes were observed in the evaluation of sperm or vaginal cytology in rats or mice. Ethylbenzene was not mutagenic in Salmonella and did not induce chromosomal aberrations or sister chromatid exchanges in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells in vitro, though it did induce trifluorothymidine resistance in mouse lymphoma cells at the highest concentration tested. Micronuclei assays in peripheral blood of mice were negative.« less
NTP toxicology and carcinogenesis studies of chromium picolinate monohydrate (CAS No. 27882-76-4) in F344/N rats and B6C3F1 mice (feed studies).

PubMed

2010-06-01

Chromium picolinate monohydrate is the commercially available form of chromium picolinate. Chromium picolinate is one of a number of compounds that contain chromium in the trivalent state (Cr III), which is the predominant form of chromium in nature. Humans ingest Cr III in food and dietary supplements. The major uses of Cr III in the chemical and manufacturing industries include production of chromium pigments and leather tanning. Chromium picolinate was nominated by the National Cancer Institute and a private individual for testing based on the potential for widespread consumer exposure from use as a dietary supplement. Male and female F344/N rats and B6C3F1 mice were exposed to chromium picolinate monohydrate (95% to 96% pure) in feed for 3 months or 2 years. Genetic toxicology studies with chromium picolinate monohydrate were conducted in Salmonella typhimurium and mouse peripheral blood erythrocytes. Genetic toxicology studies with chromium picolinate were conducted in S. typhimurium and rat bone marrow cells. 3-MONTH STUDY IN RATS: Groups of 10 male and 10 female rats were fed diets containing 0, 80, 240, 2,000, 10,000, or 50,000 ppm chromium picolinate monohydrate (equivalent to average daily doses of approximately 7, 20, 160, 800, and 4,240 mg chromium picolinate monohydrate/kg body weight to males and 6, 20, 160, 780, and 4,250 mg/kg to females) for 14 weeks. All rats survived to the end of the study. Mean body weights and feed consumption of all exposed groups of males and females were similar to those of the control groups throughout the study. No exposure-related lesions occurred in males or females. 3-MONTH STUDY IN MICE: Groups of 10 male and 10 female mice were fed diets containing 0, 80, 240, 2,000, 10,000, or 50,000 ppm chromium picolinate monohydrate (equivalent to average daily doses of approximately 17, 50, 450, 2,300, and 11,900 mg chromium picolinate monohydrate/kg body weight to males and 14, 40, 370, 1,775, and 9,140 mg/kg to females) for 14
HIV-1 subtypes D and F are prevalent in Guinea Conakry.

PubMed

Freimanis, G L; Loua, A; Allain, J P

2012-04-01

Limited data is available upon the distribution of different HIV-1/2 genotypes in the blood donor population from Guinea Conakry. To investigate the prevalence of HIV-1/2 subtypes in asymptomatic blood donors in Guinea Conakry, in order to update knowledge of HIV-1/2 epidemiology within this country. Samples from 104 blood donors seropositive for HIV-1/2 were tested for HIV-1 by real-time RT-PCR. Those negative for HIV-1 were tested with HIV-2 nested RT-PCR. Positive samples were further amplified in the HIV-1 gag and pol regions and sequenced. Subtypes were determined by phylogenetic analysis on amplicon sequences. 61 samples were positive by HIV-1 real-time RT-PCR. Of the 43 negative, 2 (4.6%) were positive for HIV-2. 52/61 (85.3%) samples were positive by nested RT-PCR. Of the 52, 43 (70.5%) and 31(59.6%) sequences were obtained in the gag and pol regions, respectively; 23 for both regions. HIV-1 subtype distribution was 1 B (2.1%), 8 F (17%), 8 D (17%) and 28 CRF02_AG (59.6%) with 2 unclassified recombinants (4.3%). Unique clusters for subtype D and F distinguished Guinea from HIV-1 subtype distribution in neighboring countries. Subtype F and subtype D strains, uncommon in West Africa, are a substantial part of HIV-1 epidemiology in Guinea. Copyright Â© 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Immunohistochemical study of motoneurons in lumbar spinal cord of c57black/6 mice after 30-days space flight

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tyapkina, Oksana; Islamov, Rustem; Nurullin, Leniz; Petrov, Konstantin.; Rezvyakov, Pavel; Nikolsky, Evgeny

To investigate mechanisms of hypogravity motor syndrome development the immunoexpression of heat shock proteins (Hsp27 and Hsp70), proteins of synaptic transmission (Synaptophysin and PSD95) and neuroprotective proteins (VEGF and Flt-1) in motoneurons of lumbar spinal cord in c57black/6 control mice (n=2) and after 30-days space flight (n=2) was studied. For a quantitative assessment of target proteins level in motoneurons frozen cross sections of lumbar spinal cord were underwent to immunohistochemical staining. Primary antibodies against VEGF, Flt-1, Hsp27 and Hsp70 (SantaCruz Biotechnology, inc. USA), against Synaptophysin and PSD95 (Abcam plc, UK) were visualized by streptavidin-biotin method. Images of spinal cords were received using OlympusBX51WI microscope with AxioCamMRm camera (CarlZeiss, Germany) and the AxioVisionRel. 4.6.3 software (CarlZeiss, Germany). The digitized data were analyzed using ImageJ 1.43 software (NIH, the USA). Quantitively, protein level in motoneurons was estimated by the density of immunoprecipitation. Results of research have not revealed any reliable changes in the immunnoexpression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and its Flt-1 receptor in motoneurons of lumbar spinal cord in control and in mice after 30-day space flight. Studying of heat shock proteins, such as Hsp27 and Hsp70, revealed the decrease in level of these proteins immunoexpression in motoneurons of mice from flight group by 15% and 10%, respectively. Some decrease in level of immunnoexpression of presynaptic membrane proteins (synaptophysin, by 21%) and proteins of postsynaptic area (PSD95, by 55%) was observed after space flight. The data obtained testify to possible changes in a functional state (synaptic activity and stress resistance) of motoneurons of lumbar spinal cord in mice after space flight. Thus, we obtained new data on involvement of motoneurons innervating skeletal muscles in development of hypogravity motor syndrome. Research was supported
Nonpoint sources as external threats to coastal water quality: lessons from Park Service experience

USGS Publications Warehouse

Burroughs, R.H.

1993-01-01

Program design for nonpoint source control was considered through an analogous problem, external threats to national parks. Nonpoint sources are diffuse land activities that degrade water quality, and recent federal legislation seeks to limit them in coastal areas. External threats occur outside a park boundary but affect the purposes for, or resources within, a park. They have been subject to federal management for many decades. Nonpoint sources are a class of external threat. Therefore, programs to limit them should consider techniques used in part protection. These park techniques include 'hard approaches', which rely on power, usually through legal devices, and 'soft approaches', which utilize shared values and objectives. A linked approach, as exemplified at the Cape Cod National Seashore, appears most promising. In a linked approach, if a soft approach fails, the manager of the protected unit is empowered to take an alternative hard action to protect the resource.
Toxicology study of senna (CAS No. 8013-11-4) in C57BL/6NTAC Mice and toxicology and carcinogenesis study of senna in genetically modified C3B6.129F1/Tac-Trp53tm1Brd haploinsufficient mice (Feed Studies).

PubMed

2012-04-01

Senna is used as a stimulant laxative in the management of constipation resulting from opioid use or when treatment with bulking or osmotic agents has failed. Increased use of senna was expected due to the removal of the stimulant laxatives danthron and phenolphthalein from the market. Senna was nominated for study by the Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) due to the wide use of laxative preparations, positive genotoxicity in vitro for some senna components or metabolites, and unknown carcinogenic potential. Because a 2-year rat study was ongoing by the manufacturer, the FDA requested that the NTP conduct a senna study in the p53(+/-) mouse. In this study, the potential for carcinogenic effects of senna was studied in the C3B6.129F1/Tac-Trp53tm1Brd N12 haploinsufficient (heterozygous F1 p53(+/-)) mouse model as an ongoing goal of the NTP to develop and test model systems for toxicology and carcinogenesis studies, especially those that can provide mechanistic information relative to understanding an agents mode of action. C57BL/6NTac mice were exposed to senna in feed for 5 weeks; heterozygous F1 p53(+/-) mice were exposed to senna in feed for 40 weeks. Genetic toxicology studies were conducted in Salmonella typhimurium, Escherichia coli, and mouse peripheral blood erythrocytes.
Supercontinuum Emission from Water using 40 fs Pulses in the External Tight Focusing Limit

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sreeja, S.; Rao, S. Venugopal; Bagchi, Suman; Sreedhar, S.; Prashant, T. Shuvan; Radhakrishnan, P.; Tewari, Surya P.; Kiran, P. Prem

2011-10-01

We present our results from the measurements of Supereonlinuum emission (SCE) resulting from the propagation ol" tightly foe used 40 femtosecond laser pulses through distilled water. The e fleet of linearly polarized (LP) and circularly polarized (CP) light pulses on the SCE: in different external focal geometries (f/6 & f/12) is studied in detail. A considerable shift in the minimum wavelength of SCF under tighter focusing limit is observed.
Comparison of the Effects of Hexavalent Chromium in the Alimentary Canal of F344 Rats and B6C3F1 Mice Following Exposure in Drinking Water: Implications for Carcinogenic Modes of Action

PubMed Central

Thompson, Chad M.; Proctor, Deborah M.; Suh, Mina; Haws, Laurie C.; Hébert, Charles D.; Mann, Jill F.; Shertzer, Howard G.; Hixon, J. Gregory; Harris, Mark A.

2012-01-01

Exposure to high concentrations of hexavalent chromium (Cr[VI]) in drinking water is reported to induce oral mucosa tumors in F344 rats and intestinal tumors in B6C3F1 mice. To investigate the modes of action underlying these tumors, 90-day drinking water studies (with interim necropsy at day 8) were conducted with concentrations of 0.1–182 mg/l Cr(VI), administered as 0.3–520 mg/l sodium dichromate dihydrate. Blood and tissue samples were analyzed for chromium content, oxidative stress, iron levels, and gross and microscopic lesions. Results for the F344 rats are described herein and compared with results from B6C3F1 mice published previously. After 90 days of exposure, total chromium concentrations in the rat and mouse oral mucosae were comparable, yet significant dose-dependent decreases in the reduced-to-oxidized glutathione ratio (GSH/GSSG) were observed only in rats. In the duodenum, changes in GSH/GSSG were only observed in mice. Levels of 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine were not increased in the oral or duodenal mucosae of either species. Glutathione levels were increased in the duodenum but decreased in the jejunum of both species, indicating potential differential responses in the intestinal segments. Histiocytic infiltration was observed in the duodenum of both species, yet duodenal cytokines were repressed in mice but increased in rats. Serum and bone marrow iron levels were more decreased in rats than mice. Collectively, these data suggest that Cr(VI)-induced carcinogenesis in the rodent alimentary canal involves oxidative stress; however, differences in histopathology, cytokines, and iron status suggest potential contributions from other factors as well. PMID:22011396
Comparison of the effects of hexavalent chromium in the alimentary canal of F344 rats and B6C3F1 mice following exposure in drinking water: implications for carcinogenic modes of action.

PubMed

Thompson, Chad M; Proctor, Deborah M; Suh, Mina; Haws, Laurie C; Hébert, Charles D; Mann, Jill F; Shertzer, Howard G; Hixon, J Gregory; Harris, Mark A

2012-01-01

Exposure to high concentrations of hexavalent chromium (Cr[VI]) in drinking water is reported to induce oral mucosa tumors in F344 rats and intestinal tumors in B6C3F1 mice. To investigate the modes of action underlying these tumors, 90-day drinking water studies (with interim necropsy at day 8) were conducted with concentrations of 0.1-182 mg/l Cr(VI), administered as 0.3-520 mg/l sodium dichromate dihydrate. Blood and tissue samples were analyzed for chromium content, oxidative stress, iron levels, and gross and microscopic lesions. Results for the F344 rats are described herein and compared with results from B6C3F1 mice published previously. After 90 days of exposure, total chromium concentrations in the rat and mouse oral mucosae were comparable, yet significant dose-dependent decreases in the reduced-to-oxidized glutathione ratio (GSH/GSSG) were observed only in rats. In the duodenum, changes in GSH/GSSG were only observed in mice. Levels of 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine were not increased in the oral or duodenal mucosae of either species. Glutathione levels were increased in the duodenum but decreased in the jejunum of both species, indicating potential differential responses in the intestinal segments. Histiocytic infiltration was observed in the duodenum of both species, yet duodenal cytokines were repressed in mice but increased in rats. Serum and bone marrow iron levels were more decreased in rats than mice. Collectively, these data suggest that Cr(VI)-induced carcinogenesis in the rodent alimentary canal involves oxidative stress; however, differences in histopathology, cytokines, and iron status suggest potential contributions from other factors as well.
Studies of PuF sub 6 and transplutonic materials' critical properties for space high power nuclear pumped lasers

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

Gu, A.G.; Miller, M.S.

1991-01-01

All space missions require a reliable, compact source of energy. This paper describes preliminary neutronics studies of pocket'' reactor concepts employing PuF{sub 6} and transplutonic materials as fuels for space high power/energy Nuclear Pumped Lasers (NPLs). Previous research has studied NPL reactor concepts with thin fuel layers, aerosol fuels and gaseous UF{sub 6}. The total reactor volumes for compact reactors with these types of fuels typically range from 3 m{sup 3} to 50 m{sup 3}. By employing PuF{sub 6} and transplutonic fuels at the same low densities, a calculated value for Keff of 1.2 has been achieved for conditions ofmore » 900 K and 5 atm, with total reactor volumes of 1.5 m{sup 3} for PuF{sub 6}, 0.51 m{sup 3} for Am-242m, 0.58 m{sup 3} for Cm-245 and 0.63 m{sup 3} for Cf-249.« less
Roundness variation in JPEG images affects the automated process of nuclear immunohistochemical quantification: correction with a linear regression model.

PubMed

López, Carlos; Jaén Martinez, Joaquín; Lejeune, Marylène; Escrivà, Patricia; Salvadó, Maria T; Pons, Lluis E; Alvaro, Tomás; Baucells, Jordi; García-Rojo, Marcial; Cugat, Xavier; Bosch, Ramón

2009-10-01

The volume of digital image (DI) storage continues to be an important problem in computer-assisted pathology. DI compression enables the size of files to be reduced but with the disadvantage of loss of quality. Previous results indicated that the efficiency of computer-assisted quantification of immunohistochemically stained cell nuclei may be significantly reduced when compressed DIs are used. This study attempts to show, with respect to immunohistochemically stained nuclei, which morphometric parameters may be altered by the different levels of JPEG compression, and the implications of these alterations for automated nuclear counts, and further, develops a method for correcting this discrepancy in the nuclear count. For this purpose, 47 DIs from different tissues were captured in uncompressed TIFF format and converted to 1:3, 1:23 and 1:46 compression JPEG images. Sixty-five positive objects were selected from these images, and six morphological parameters were measured and compared for each object in TIFF images and those of the different compression levels using a set of previously developed and tested macros. Roundness proved to be the only morphological parameter that was significantly affected by image compression. Factors to correct the discrepancy in the roundness estimate were derived from linear regression models for each compression level, thereby eliminating the statistically significant differences between measurements in the equivalent images. These correction factors were incorporated in the automated macros, where they reduced the nuclear quantification differences arising from image compression. Our results demonstrate that it is possible to carry out unbiased automated immunohistochemical nuclear quantification in compressed DIs with a methodology that could be easily incorporated in different systems of digital image analysis.
Effects of different dietary energy and protein levels and sex on growth performance, carcass characteristics and meat quality of F1 Angus × Chinese Xiangxi yellow cattle.

PubMed

Li, Lingyan; Zhu, Yuankui; Wang, Xianyou; He, Yang; Cao, Binghai

2014-01-01

The experiment evaluated the effect of nutrition levels and sex on the growth performance, carcass characteristics and meat quality of F1 Angus × Chinese Xiangxi yellow cattle. During the background period of 184 d,23 steers and 24 heifers were fed the same ration,then put into a 2 × 2 × 2 factorial arrangement under two levels of - dietary energy (TDN: 70/80% DM), protein (CP: 11.9/14.3% DM) and sex (S: male/female) during the finishing phase of 146 d. The treatments were - (1) high energy/low protein (HELP), (2) high energy/high protein (HEHP), (3) low energy/low protein (LELP) and (4) low energy/high protein (LEHP). Each treatment used 6 steers and 6 heifers, except for HELP- 5 steers and 6 heifers. Growth rate and final carcass weight were unaffected by dietary energy and protein levels or by sex. Compared with the LE diet group, the HE group had significantly lower dry matter intake (DMI, 6.76 vs. 7.48 kg DM/d), greater chest girth increments (46.1 vs. 36.8 cm), higher carcass fat (19.9 vs.16.3%) and intramuscular fat content (29.9 vs. 22.8% DM). The HE group also had improved yields of top and medium top grade commercial meat cuts (39.9 vs.36.5%). The dressing percentage was higher for the HP group than the LP group (53.4 vs. 54.9%). Steers had a greater length increment (9.0 vs. 8.3 cm), but lower carcass fat content (16.8 vs. 19.4%) than heifers. The meat quality traits (shear force value, drip loss, cooking loss and water holding capacity) were not affected by treatments or sex, averaging 3.14 kg, 2.5, 31.5 and 52.9%, respectively. The nutritive profiles (both fatty and amino acid composition) were not influenced by the energy or protein levels or by sex. The dietary energy and protein levels and sex significantly influenced the carcass characteristics and chemical composition of meat but not thegrowth performance, meat quality traits and nutritive profiles.
Effects of different dietary energy and protein levels and sex on growth performance, carcass characteristics and meat quality of F1 Angus × Chinese Xiangxi yellow cattle

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background The experiment evaluated the effect of nutrition levels and sex on the growth performance, carcass characteristics and meat quality of F1 Angus × Chinese Xiangxi yellow cattle. Methods During the background period of 184 d,23 steers and 24 heifers were fed the same ration,then put into a 2 × 2 × 2 factorial arrangement under two levels of - dietary energy (TDN: 70/80% DM), protein (CP: 11.9/14.3% DM) and sex (S: male/female) during the finishing phase of 146 d. The treatments were - (1) high energy/low protein (HELP), (2) high energy/high protein (HEHP), (3) low energy/low protein (LELP) and (4) low energy/high protein (LEHP). Each treatment used 6 steers and 6 heifers, except for HELP- 5 steers and 6 heifers. Results Growth rate and final carcass weight were unaffected by dietary energy and protein levels or by sex. Compared with the LE diet group, the HE group had significantly lower dry matter intake (DMI, 6.76 vs. 7.48 kg DM/d), greater chest girth increments (46.1 vs. 36.8 cm), higher carcass fat (19.9 vs.16.3%) and intramuscular fat content (29.9 vs. 22.8% DM). The HE group also had improved yields of top and medium top grade commercial meat cuts (39.9 vs.36.5%). The dressing percentage was higher for the HP group than the LP group (53.4 vs. 54.9%). Steers had a greater length increment (9.0 vs. 8.3 cm), but lower carcass fat content (16.8 vs. 19.4%) than heifers. The meat quality traits (shear force value, drip loss, cooking loss and water holding capacity) were not affected by treatments or sex, averaging 3.14 kg, 2.5, 31.5 and 52.9%, respectively. The nutritive profiles (both fatty and amino acid composition) were not influenced by the energy or protein levels or by sex. Conclusions The dietary energy and protein levels and sex significantly influenced the carcass characteristics and chemical composition of meat but not thegrowth performance, meat quality traits and nutritive profiles. PMID:24739901
[Development of external quality control protocol for CyberKnife beams dosimetry: preliminary tests multicentre].

PubMed

Guinement, L; Marchesi, V; Veres, A; Lacornerie, T; Buchheit, I; Peiffert, D

2013-01-01

To develop an external quality control procedure for CyberKnife(®) beams. This work conducted in Nancy, has included a test protocol initially drawn by the medical physicist of Nancy and Lille in collaboration with Equal-Estro Laboratory. A head and neck anthropomorphic phantom and a water-equivalent homogeneous cubic plastic test-object, so-called "MiniCube", have been used. Powder and solid thermoluminescent dosimeters as well as radiochromic films have been used to perform absolute and relative dose studies, respectively. The comparison between doses calculated by Multiplan treatment planning system and measured doses have been studied in absolute dose. The dose distributions measured with films and treatment planning system calculations have been compared via the gamma function, configured with different tolerance criteria. This work allowed, via solid thermoluminescent dosimeter measurements, verifying the beam reliability with a reproducibility of 1.7 %. The absolute dose measured in the phantom irradiated by the seven participating centres has shown an error inferior to the standard tolerance limits (± 5 %), for most of participating centres. The relative dose measurements performed at Nancy and by the Equal-Estro laboratory allowed defining the most adequate parameters for gamma index (5 %/2mm--with at least 95 % of pixels satisfying acceptability criteria: γ<1). These parameters should be independent of the film analysis software. This work allowed defining a dosimetric external quality control for CyberKnife(®) systems, based on a reproducible irradiation plan through measurements performed with thermoluminescent dosimeters and radiochromic films. This protocol should be validated by a new series of measurement and taking into account the lessons of this work. Copyright © 2013 Société française de radiothérapie oncologique (SFRO). Published by Elsevier SAS. All rights reserved.
The Lewis superacid Al[N(C6F5)2]3 and its higher homolog Ga[N(C6F5)2]3 – structural features, theoretical investigation and reactions of a metal amide with higher fluoride ion affinity than SbF5† †Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available. CCDC 1557072–1557076. For ESI and crystallographic data in CIF or other electronic format see DOI: 10.1039/c7sc03988c

PubMed Central

Kögel, J. F.; Sorokin, D. A.; Khvorost, A.; Scott, M.; Harms, K.; Himmel, D.; Krossing, I.

2017-01-01

Herein we present the synthesis of the two Lewis acids Al[N(C6F5)2]3 (ALTA) and Ga[N(C6F5)2]3 (GATA) via salt elimination reactions. The metal complexes were characterized by NMR-spectroscopic methods and X-ray diffraction analysis revealing the stabilization of the highly Lewis acidic metal centers by secondary metal–fluorine contacts. The Lewis acidic properties of Al[N(C6F5)2]3 and Ga[N(C6F5)2]3 are demonstrated by reactions with Lewis bases resulting in the formation of metallates accompanied by crucial structural changes. The two metallates [Cs(Tol)3]+[FAl(N(C6F5)2)3]– and [AsPh4]+[ClGa(N(C6F5)2)3]– contain interesting weakly coordinating anions. The reaction of Al[N(C6F5)2]3 with trityl fluoride yielded [CPh3]+[FAl(N(C6F5)2)3]– which could find application in the activation of metallocene polymerization catalysts. The qualitative Lewis acidity of Al[N(C6F5)2]3 and Ga[N(C6F5)2]3 was investigated by means of competition experiments for chloride ions in solution. DFT calculations yielded fluoride ion affinities in the gas phase (FIA) of 555 kJ mol–1 for Al[N(C6F5)2]3 and 472 kJ mol–1 for Ga[N(C6F5)2]3. Thus, Al[N(C6F5)2]3 can be considered a Lewis superacid with a fluoride affinity higher than SbF5 (493 kJ mol–1) whereas the FIA of the corresponding gallium complex is slightly below the threshold to Lewis superacidity. PMID:29629094
NTP Toxicology and Carcinogenesis Studies of Molybdenum Trioxide (CAS No. 1313-27-5) in F344 Rats and B6C3F1 Mice (Inhalation Studies).

PubMed

1997-04-01

Molybdenum is an essential element for the function of nitrogenase in plants and as a cofactor for enzymes including xanthine oxidoreductase, aldehyde oxidase, and sulfide oxidase in animals. Molybdenum trioxide is used primarily as an additive to steel and corrosion-resistant alloys. It is also used as a chemical intermediate for molybdenum products; an industrial catalyst; a pigment; a crop nutrient; components of glass, ceramics, and enamels; a flame retardant for polyester and polyvinyl chloride resins; and a reagent in chemical analyses. Molybdenum trioxide was nominated by the NCI for toxicity and carcinogenicity studies as a representative inorganic molybdenum compound. The production of molybdenum trioxide is the largest of all the molybdenum compounds examined. Male and female F344/N rats and B6C3F1 mice were exposed to molybdenum trioxide (approximately 99% pure) by inhalation for 14 days, 13 weeks, or 2 years. Genetic toxicology studies were conducted in Salmonella typhimurium and cultured Chinese hamster ovary cells. 14-DAY STUDY IN RATS: Groups of five male and five female F344/N rats were exposed to 0, 3, 10, 30, 100, or 300 mg molybdenum trioxide/m(3). Rats were exposed for 6 hours per day, 5 days per week, for a total of 10 exposure days during a 14-day period. All rats survived to the end of the study. The final mean body weights of male rats exposed to 100 mg/m(3) and male and female rats exposed to 300 mg/m(3) were significantly lower than those of the control groups. Male rats exposed to 300 mg/m(3) lost weight during the study. There were no clinical findings related to exposure to molybdenum trioxide. No chemical-related lesions were observed. 14-DAY STUDY IN MICE: Groups of five male and five female B6C3F1 mice were exposed to 0, 3, 10, 30, 100, or 300 mg molybdenum trioxide/m(3). Mice were exposed 6 hours per day, 5 days per week, for a total of 10 exposure days during a 14-day period. All mice survived to the end of the study. Final mean
Child Reactivity Moderates the Over-Time Association between Mother-Child Conflict Quality and Externalizing Problems

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Nelson, Jackie A.

2015-01-01

Constructive parent-child conflict interactions that teach children to problem-solve and negotiate can enhance children's social adjustment. This paper identifies constructive and destructive qualities of mother-child conflict and explores whether child temperament moderated associations with changes in externalizing problems over time. One…
A fully-automated one-pot synthesis of [18F]fluoromethylcholine with reduced dimethylaminoethanol contamination via [18F]fluoromethyl tosylate.

PubMed

Rodnick, Melissa E; Brooks, Allen F; Hockley, Brian G; Henderson, Bradford D; Scott, Peter J H

2013-08-01

A novel one-pot method for preparing [(18)F]fluoromethylcholine ([(18)F]FCH) via in situ generation of [(18)F]fluoromethyl tosylate ([(18)F]FCH2OTs), and subsequent [(18)F]fluoromethylation of dimethylaminoethanol (DMAE), has been developed. [(18)F]FCH was prepared using a GE TRACERlab FXFN, although the method should be readily adaptable to any other fluorine-(18) synthesis module. Initially ditosylmethane was fluorinated to generate [(18)F]FCH2OTs. DMAE was then added and the reaction was heated at 120 °C for 10 min to generate [(18)F]FCH. After this time, reaction solvent was evaporated, and the crude reaction mixture was purified by solid-phase extraction using C(18)-Plus and CM-Light Sep-Pak cartridges to provide [(18)F]FCH formulated in USP saline. The formulated product was passed through a 0.22 µm filter into a sterile dose vial, and submitted for quality control testing. Total synthesis time was 1.25 h from end-of-bombardment. Typical non-decay-corrected yields of [(18)F]FCH prepared using this method were 91 mCi (7% non-decay corrected based upon ~1.3 Ci [(18)F]fluoride), and doses passed all other quality control (QC) tests. A one-pot liquid-phase synthesis of [(18)F]FCH has been developed. Doses contain extremely low levels of residual DMAE (31.6 µg/10 mL dose or ~3 ppm) and passed all other requisite QC testing, confirming their suitability for use in clinical imaging studies. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
A Fully-automated One-pot Synthesis of [18F]Fluoromethylcholine with Reduced Dimethylaminoethanol Contamination via [18F]Fluoromethyl Tosylate

PubMed Central

Rodnick, Melissa E.; Brooks, Allen F.; Hockley, Brian G.; Henderson, Bradford D.; Scott, Peter J. H.

2013-01-01

Introduction A novel one-pot method for preparing [18F]fluoromethylcholine ([18F]FCH) via in situ generation of [18F]fluoromethyl tosylate ([18F]FCH2OTs), and subsequent [18F]fluoromethylation of dimethylaminoethanol (DMAE), has been developed. Methods [18F]FCH was prepared using a GE TRACERlab FXFN, although the method should be readily adaptable to any other fluorine-18 synthesis module. Initially ditosylmethane was fluorinated to generate [18F]FCH2OTs. DMAE was then added and the reaction was heated at 120°C for 10 min to generate [18F]FCH. After this time, reaction solvent was evaporated, and the crude reaction mixture was purified by solid-phase extraction using C18-Plus and CM-Light Sep-Pak cartridges to provide [18F]FCH formulated in USP saline. The formulated product was passed through a 0.22 μm filter into a sterile dose vial, and submitted for quality control testing. Total synthesis time was 1.25 hours from end-of-bombardment. Results Typical non-decay-corrected yields of [18F]FCH prepared using this method were 91 mCi (7% non-decay corrected based upon ~1.3 Ci [18F]fluoride), and doses passed all other quality control (QC) tests. Conclusion A one-pot liquid-phase synthesis of [18F]FCH has been developed. Doses contain extremely low levels of residual DMAE (31.6 μg / 10 mL dose or ~3 ppm) and passed all other requisite QC testing, confirming their suitability for use in clinical imaging studies. PMID:23665261

Immunohistochemical analysis of P53 protein in odontogenic cysts

PubMed Central

Gaballah, Essam Taher M.A.; Tawfik, Mohamed A.

2010-01-01

The p53 is a well-known tumor suppressor gene, the mutations of which are closely related to the decreased differentiation of cells. Findings of studies on immunohistochemical P53 expression in odontogenic cysts are controversial. The present study was carried-out to investigate the immunohistochemical expression of P53 protein in odontogenic cysts. Thirty paraffin blocks of diagnosed odontogenic cysts were processed to determine the immunohistochemical expression of P53 protein. Nine of the 11 odontogenic keratocysts (81.8%) expressed P53, one of three dentigerous cyst cases expressed P53, while none of the 16 radicular cysts expressed P53 protein. The findings of the present work supported the reclassification of OKC as keratocystic odontogenic tumor. PMID:23960493
COMPUTATIONAL ASPECTS OF THE AIR QUALITY FORECASTING VERSION OF CMAQ (CMAQ-F)

EPA Science Inventory

The air quality forecast version of the Community Modeling Air Quality (CMAQ) model (CMAQ-F) was developed from the public release version of CMAQ (available from http://www.cmascenter.org), and is running operationally at the National Weather Service's National Centers for Envir...
Characterization of 107 Genomic DNA Reference Materials for CYP2D6, CYP2C19, CYP2C9, VKORC1, and UGT1A1

PubMed Central

Pratt, Victoria M.; Zehnbauer, Barbara; Wilson, Jean Amos; Baak, Ruth; Babic, Nikolina; Bettinotti, Maria; Buller, Arlene; Butz, Ken; Campbell, Matthew; Civalier, Chris; El-Badry, Abdalla; Farkas, Daniel H.; Lyon, Elaine; Mandal, Saptarshi; McKinney, Jason; Muralidharan, Kasinathan; Noll, LeAnne; Sander, Tara; Shabbeer, Junaid; Smith, Chingying; Telatar, Milhan; Toji, Lorraine; Vairavan, Anand; Vance, Carlos; Weck, Karen E.; Wu, Alan H.B.; Yeo, Kiang-Teck J.; Zeller, Markus; Kalman, Lisa

2010-01-01

Pharmacogenetic testing is becoming more common; however, very few quality control and other reference materials that cover alleles commonly included in such assays are currently available. To address these needs, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Genetic Testing Reference Material Coordination Program, in collaboration with members of the pharmacogenetic testing community and the Coriell Cell Repositories, have characterized a panel of 107 genomic DNA reference materials for five loci (CYP2D6, CYP2C19, CYP2C9, VKORC1, and UGT1A1) that are commonly included in pharmacogenetic testing panels and proficiency testing surveys. Genomic DNA from publicly available cell lines was sent to volunteer laboratories for genotyping. Each sample was tested in three to six laboratories using a variety of commercially available or laboratory-developed platforms. The results were consistent among laboratories, with differences in allele assignments largely related to the manufacturer's assay design and variable nomenclature, especially for CYP2D6. The alleles included in the assay platforms varied, but most were identified in the set of 107 DNA samples. Nine additional pharmacogenetic loci (CYP4F2, EPHX1, ABCB1, HLAB, KIF6, CYP3A4, CYP3A5, TPMT, and DPD) were also tested. These samples are publicly available from Coriell and will be useful for quality assurance, proficiency testing, test development, and research. PMID:20889555
The Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor Binds to E2F1 and Inhibits E2F1-induced Apoptosis

PubMed Central

Marlowe, Jennifer L.; Fan, Yunxia; Chang, Xiaoqing; Peng, Li; Knudsen, Erik S.; Xia, Ying

2008-01-01

Cellular stress by DNA damage induces checkpoint kinase-2 (CHK2)-mediated phosphorylation and stabilization of the E2F1 transcription factor, leading to induction of apoptosis by activation of a subset of proapoptotic E2F1 target genes, including Apaf1 and p73. This report characterizes an interaction between the aryl hydrocarbon (Ah) receptor (AHR), a ligand-activated transcription factor, and E2F1 that results in the attenuation of E2F1-mediated apoptosis. In Ahr−/− fibroblasts stably transfected with a doxycycline-regulated AHR expression vector, inhibition of AHR expression causes a significant elevation of oxidative stress, γH2A.X histone phosphorylation, and E2F1-dependent apoptosis, which can be blocked by small interfering RNA-mediated knockdown of E2F1 expression. In contrast, ligand-dependent AHR activation protects these cells from etoposide-induced cell death. In cells expressing both proteins, AHR and E2F1 interact independently of the retinoblastoma protein (RB), because AHR and E2F1 coimmunoprecipitate from extracts of RB-negative cells. Additionally, chromatin immunoprecipitation assays indicate that AHR and E2F1 bind to the Apaf1 promoter at a region containing a consensus E2F1 binding site but no AHR binding sites. AHR activation represses Apaf1 and TAp73 mRNA induction by a constitutively active CHK2 expression vector. Furthermore, AHR overexpression blocks the transcriptional induction of Apaf1 and p73 and the accumulation of sub-G0/G1 cells resulting from ectopic overexpression of E2F1. These results point to a proproliferative, antiapoptotic function of the Ah receptor that likely plays a role in tumor progression. PMID:18524851
Rare ginsenoside Ia synthesized from F1 by cloning and overexpression of the UDP-glycosyltransferase gene from Bacillus subtilis: synthesis, characterization, and in vitro melanogenesis inhibition activity in BL6B16 cells.

PubMed

Wang, Dan-Dan; Jin, Yan; Wang, Chao; Kim, Yeon-Ju; Perez, Zuly Elizabeth Jimenez; Baek, Nam In; Mathiyalagan, Ramya; Markus, Josua; Yang, Deok-Chun

2018-01-01

Ginsenoside F1 has been described to possess skin-whitening effects on humans. We aimed to synthesize a new ginsenoside derivative from F1 and investigate its cytotoxicity and melanogenesis inhibitory activity in B16BL6 cells using recombinant glycosyltransferase enzyme. Glycosylation has the advantage of synthesizing rare chemical compounds from common compounds with great ease. UDP-glycosyltransferase (BSGT1) gene from Bacillus subtilis was selected for cloning. The recombinant glycosyltransferase enzyme was purified, characterized, and utilized to enzymatically transform F1 into its derivative. The new product was characterized by NMR techniques and evaluated by MTT, melanin count, and tyrosinase inhibition assay. The new derivative was identified as (20 S )-3 β ,6 α ,12 β ,20-tetrahydroxydammar-24-ene-20- O - β -D-glucopyranosyl-3- O - β -D-glucopyranoside (ginsenoside Ia), which possesses an additional glucose linked into the C-3 position of substrate F1. Ia had been previously reported; however, no in vitro biological activity was further examined. This study focused on the mass production of arduous ginsenoside Ia from accessible F1 and its inhibitory effect of melanogenesis in B16BL6 cells. Ia showed greater inhibition of melanin and tyrosinase at 100 μmol/L than F1 and arbutin. These results suggested that Ia decreased cellular melanin synthesis in B16BL6 cells through downregulation of tyrosinase activity. To our knowledge, this is the first study to report on the mass production of rare ginsenoside Ia from F1 using recombinant UDP-glycosyltransferase isolated from B. subtillis and its superior melanogenesis inhibitory activity in B16BL6 cells as compared to its precursor. In brief, ginsenoside Ia can be applied for further study in cosmetics.
Targeted Analysis of KLF6/KLF6-SV1 Regulating Pathways in Prostate Cancer Development and Metastasis

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-09-01

and KLF6-SV1 it will be important to define the functionality of the putative NLS, the 5BR, as well as the role of nucleo-cytoplasmic shuttling in...aa EGFP -56 aa -16 aa KLF6 KLF6-SV1 5BR ZF,ZF~F3 ZF, ZF2 ZF3 l29KLF6 57KLF6 17KLF6 located near or within other important domains that...the transporter protein Crm1/Xpo1, first discovered in yeast [33–36]. Subcellular localization and protein turnover are two related events that are
EVALUATION OF THE IMMUNOMODULATORY EFFECTS OF THE DISINFECTION BYPRODUCT, SODIUM CHLORITE, IN FEMALE B6C3F1 MICE: A DRINKING WATER STUDY

EPA Science Inventory

Evaluation of the Immunomodulatory Effects of the Disinfection By-product, Sodium chlorite, in Female B6C3f1 mice: A Drinking Water Study.

Niel A. Karrow, Tal, L. Guo, J. Ann McCay, Greg W. Johnson, Ronnetta D. Brown, Debrorah L. Musgrove, Dori R. Germolec, Robert W. Lueb...
Linagliptin potentiates the effect of l-dopa on the behavioural, biochemical and immunohistochemical changes in experimentally-induced Parkinsonism: Role of toll-like receptor 4, TGF-β1, NF-κB and glucagon-like peptide 1.

PubMed

Kabel, Ahmed M; Omar, Mohamed S; Alhadhrami, A; Alharthi, Salman S; Alrobaian, Majed M

2018-05-01

Our aim was to assess the effect of different doses of linagliptin with or without l-dopa/Carbidopa on 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)-induced parkinsonism in mice. Eighty Balb/c mice were divided into 8 equal groups: Control; MPTP; MPTP + l-dopa/Carbidopa; MPTP + linagliptin 3 mg/kg/day; MPTP + linagliptin 10 mg/kg/day; MPTP + Carboxymethyl cellulose; MPTP + l-dopa/Carbidopa + linagliptin 3 mg/kg/day and MPTP + l-dopa/Carbidopa + linagliptin 10 mg/kg/day. Striatal dopamine, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin 10 (IL-10), transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1), toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), antioxidant enzymes, adenosine triphosphate (ATP), glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), receptors of advanced glycation end products (RAGE), nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (Nrf2), heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), mitochondrial complex I activity, catalepsy and total swim scores were measured. Also, the substantia nigra was subjected to immunohistochemical examination. The combination of l-dopa/Carbidopa and linagliptin in a dose-dependent manner resulted in significant improvement of the behavioural changes, striatal dopamine, antioxidant parameters, Nrf2/HO-1 content, GLP-1, ATP and mitochondrial complex I activity with significant decrease in striatal RAGE, TGF-β1, TNF-α, IL-10, TLR4 and alleviated the immunohistochemical changes better than the groups that received either l-dopa/Carbidopa or linagliptin alone. The combination of l-dopa/Carbidopa and linagliptin might represent a promising therapeutic modality for management of parkinsonism. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Molecular genetics external quality assessment pilot scheme for KRAS analysis in metastatic colorectal cancer.

PubMed

Deans, Zandra C; Tull, Justyna; Beighton, Gemma; Abbs, Stephen; Robinson, David O; Butler, Rachel

2011-11-01

Laboratories are increasingly required to perform molecular tests for the detection of mutations in the KRAS gene in metastatic colorectal cancers to allow better clinical management and more effective treatment for these patients. KRAS mutation status predicts a patient's likely response to the monoclonal antibody cetuximab. To provide a high standard of service, these laboratories require external quality assessment (EQA) to monitor the level of laboratory output and measure the performance of the laboratory against other service providers. National External Quality Assurance Services for Molecular Genetics provided a pilot EQA scheme for KRAS molecular analysis in metastatic colorectal cancers during 2009. Very few genotyping errors were reported by participating laboratories; however, the reporting nomenclature of the genotyping results varied considerably between laboratories. The pilot EQA scheme highlighted the need for continuing EQA in this field which will assess the laboratories' ability not only to obtain accurate, reliable results but also to interpret them safely and correctly ensuring that the referring clinician has the correct information to make the best clinical therapeutic decision for their patient.
Stress hormones promote growth of B16-F10 melanoma metastases: an interleukin 6- and glutathione-dependent mechanism.

PubMed

Valles, Soraya L; Benlloch, María; Rodriguez, María L; Mena, Salvador; Pellicer, José A; Asensi, Miguel; Obrador, Elena; Estrela, José M

2013-03-22

Interleukin (IL)-6 (mainly of tumor origin) activates glutathione (GSH) release from hepatocytes and its interorgan transport to B16-F10 melanoma metastatic foci. We studied if this capacity to overproduce IL-6 is regulated by cancer cell-independent mechanisms. Murine B16-F10 melanoma cells were cultured, transfected with red fluorescent protein, injected i.v. into syngenic C57BL/6J mice to generate lung and liver metastases, and isolated from metastatic foci using high-performance cell sorting. Stress hormones and IL-6 levels were measured by ELISA, and CRH expression in the brain by in situ hybridization. DNA binding activity of NF-κB, CREB, AP-1, and NF-IL-6 was measured using specific transcription factor assay kits. IL-6 expression was measured by RT-PCR, and silencing was achieved by transfection of anti-IL-6 small interfering RNA. GSH was determined by HPLC. Cell death analysis was distinguished using fluorescence microscopy, TUNEL labeling, and flow cytometry techniques. Statistical analyses were performed using Student's t test. Plasma levels of stress-related hormones (adrenocorticotropin hormone, corticosterone, and noradrenaline) increased, following a circadian pattern and as compared to non-tumor controls, in mice bearing B16-F10 lung or liver metastases. Corticosterone and noradrenaline, at pathophysiological levels, increased expression and secretion of IL-6 in B16-F10 cells in vitro. Corticosterone- and noradrenaline-induced transcriptional up-regulation of IL-6 gene involves changes in the DNA binding activity of nuclear factor-κB, cAMP response element-binding protein, activator protein-1, and nuclear factor for IL-6. In vivo inoculation of B16-F10 cells transfected with anti-IL-6-siRNA, treatment with a glucocorticoid receptor blocker (RU-486) or with a β-adrenoceptor blocker (propranolol), increased hepatic GSH whereas decreased plasma IL-6 levels and metastatic growth. Corticosterone, but not NORA, also induced apoptotic cell death in
Immunohistochemical co-expression status of cytokeratin 5/6, androgen receptor, and p53 as prognostic factors of adjuvant chemotherapy for triple negative breast cancer.

PubMed

Maeda, Tetsuyo; Nakanishi, Yoko; Hirotani, Yukari; Fuchinoue, Fumi; Enomoto, Katsuhisa; Sakurai, Kenichi; Amano, Sadao; Nemoto, Norimichi

2016-03-01

Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is immunohistochemically characterised by the lack of expression of the estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), and human epidermal growth factor receptor type 2 (HER2). TNBC is known for its poor prognosis and high recurrence probability. There is no effective targeted treatment for TNBC, but only adjuvant chemotherapies. There are two TNBC subtypes, basal-like and non-basal-like, which are defined based on positive cytokeratin (CK) 5/6 and/or epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) expression. In particular, CK5/6 expression is reported to correlate with TNBC recurrence. TNBC lacks ER-α expression, but some TNBCs are known to express the androgen receptor (AR). Moreover, although p53 accumulation is detected in various malignant tumors, its influence on adjuvant chemotherapy for patients with TNBC remains unclear. The aim of this study was to assess the combined immunohistochemical expression of CK 5/6, AR, and p53 as a potential prognostic marker of adjuvant chemotherapy for patients with TNBC. The expression of CK5/6, AR, and p53 in formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded (FFPE) surgical sections from 52 patients with TNBC was analysed by immunohistochemistry (IHC) and the co-expression patterns in individual cells were investigated by immunofluorescent (IF) staining. Low AR expression was correlated with high clinical stage (P < 0.05) and low nuclear grade (P < 0.05). The expression of CK5/6 and p53 did not correlate with clinicopathological features. Patients who needed adjuvant chemotherapy presented the worst prognosis. In particular, when the IHC expression pattern was CK5/6 (-), AR (-), and p53 (+), the disease free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) were the worst. On the other hand, patients with AR (+) and p53 (-) TNBC presented a good prognosis. The analysis of the co-expression status of these three markers showed that no cells presented both AR and CK5/6 expression. Furthermore, TP53 m
Mechanical relaxations and 1/f noise in Bi, Nb, and Fe films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alers, G. B.; Weissman, M. B.

1991-10-01

Anelastic piezoresistance and 1/f noise were measured in the same samples to compare mechanical relaxations with 1/f noise. In bismuth below 200 K, both effects could be fitted to a model invoking one class of mobile defects. In niobium, both the anelastic piezoresistance and the noise scaled with the concentration of dissolved hydrogen. A well-defined peak in noise versus temperature was observed without any peak in the anelastic response. In iron, noise apparently from a carbon Snoek relaxation was observed at 220 K in a sample with high impurity concentration and at 300 K with low impurity concentration. No anelastic feature was found at 220 K in the high-impurity-concentration sample. The broad nature of 1/f noise appears to arise not from a fundamental source but from the generally poor quality of thin films.
External quality assessment of Giemsa-stained blood film microscopy for the diagnosis of malaria and sleeping sickness in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

PubMed Central

Mukadi, Pierre; Gillet, Philippe; Lukuka, Albert; Atua, Benjamin; Sheshe, Nicole; Kanza, Albert; Mayunda, Jean Bosco; Mongita, Briston; Senga, Raphaël; Ngoyi, John; Muyembe, Jean-Jacques; Jacobs, Jan

2013-01-01

Abstract Objective To report the findings of a second external quality assessment of Giemsa-stained blood film microscopy in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, performed one year after the first. Methods A panel of four slides was delivered to diagnostic laboratories in all provinces of the country. The slides contained: (i) Plasmodium falciparum gametocytes; (ii) P. falciparum trophozoites (reference density: 113 530 per µl); (iii) Trypanosoma brucei subspecies; and (iv) no parasites. Findings Of 356 laboratories contacted, 277 (77.8%) responded. Overall, 35.0% of the laboratories reported all four slides correctly but 14.1% reported correct results for 1 or 0 slides. Major errors included not diagnosing trypanosomiasis (50.4%), not recognizing P. falciparum gametocytes (17.5%) and diagnosing malaria from the slide with no parasites (19.0%). The frequency of serious errors in assessing parasite density and in reporting false-positive results was lower than in the previous external quality assessment: 17.2% and 52.3%, respectively, (P < 0.001) for parasite density and 19.0% and 33.3%, respectively, (P < 0.001) for false-positive results. Laboratories that participated in the previous quality assessment performed better than first-time participants and laboratories in provinces with a high number of sleeping sickness cases recognized trypanosomes more frequently (57.0% versus 31.2%, P < 0.001). Malaria rapid diagnostic tests were used by 44.3% of laboratories, almost double the proportion observed in the previous quality assessment. Conclusion The overall quality of blood film microscopy was poor but was improved by participation in external quality assessments. The failure to recognize trypanosomes in a country where sleeping sickness is endemic is a concern. PMID:24052681
NTP Toxicology and Carcinogenesis Studies of EMODIN (CAS NO. 518-82-1) Feed Studies in F344/N Rats and B6C3F1 Mice.

PubMed

2001-06-01

Emodin is a naturally occurring anthraquinone present in the roots and bark of numerous plants of the genus Rhamnus. Extracts from the roots, bark, and/or dried leaves of buckthorn, senna, cascara, aloe, frangula, and rhubarb have been used as laxatives since ancient times and currently are widely used in the preparation of herbal laxative preparations. Anthraquinone glycosides are poorly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract but are cleaved by gut bacteria to produce aglycones (such as emodin) that are more readily absorbed and are responsible for the purgative properties of these preparations. There is extensive exposure to emodin and other anthraquinones resulting from the use of herb-based stimulant laxatives. Reports that 1,8-dihydroxyanthraquinone, a commonly used laxative ingredient, caused tumors in the gastrointestinal tract of rats raised the possibility of an association between colorectal cancer and the use of laxatives containing anthraquinones. Because emodin is a hydroxyanthraquinone structurally similar to 1,8-dihydroxyanthraquinone, is present in herbal laxatives, and was reported to be mutagenic in bacteria, it was considered a potential carcinogen and was selected for in-depth evaluation. Male and female F344/N rats and B6C3F1 mice were exposed to emodin (at least 94% pure) in feed for 16 days, 14 weeks, or 2 years. Genetic toxicology studies were conducted in Salmonella typhimurium, cultured Chinese hamster ovary cells, rat and mouse bone marrow cells, and mouse peripheral blood erythrocytes. 16-DAY STUDY IN RATS: Groups of five male and five female rats were fed diets containing 0, 600, 2,000, 5,500, 17,000, or 50,000 ppm emodin (equivalent to average daily doses of approximately 50, 170, 480, 1,400, or 3,700 mg emodin/kg body weight to males and 50, 160, 460, 1,250, or 2,000 mg/kg to females) for 15 (males) or 16 (females) days. Three female rats died before the end of the study. Mean body weights of males and females exposed to 5,500 ppm
Solvothermal indium fluoride chemistry: Syntheses and crystal structures of K{sub 5}In{sub 3}F{sub 14}, beta-(NH{sub 4}){sub 3}InF{sub 6} and [NH{sub 4}]{sub 3}[C{sub 6}H{sub 21}N{sub 4}]{sub 2}[In{sub 4}F{sub 21}

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

Jayasundera, Anil C.A.; Goff, Richard J.; Li Yang

2010-02-15

The solvothermal syntheses and crystal structures of three indium fluorides are presented. K{sub 5}In{sub 3}F{sub 14} (1) and beta-(NH{sub 4}){sub 3}InF{sub 6} (2) are variants on known inorganic structure types chiolite and cryolite, respectively, with the latter exhibiting a complex and apparently novel structural distortion. [NH{sub 4}]{sub 3}[C{sub 6}H{sub 21}N{sub 4}]{sub 2}[In{sub 4}F{sub 21}] (3) represents a new hybrid composition displaying a unique trimeric metal fluoride building unit. - Graphical abstract: Solvothermal synthesis has been used to prepare three indium fluorides, including a novel hybrid material containing a unique [In{sub 3}F{sub 15}] trimer templated by tren.
Osteogenic potential of mesenchymal cells embedded in the provisional matrix after a 6-week healing period in augmented and non-augmented extraction sockets: an immunohistochemical prospective pilot study in humans.

PubMed

Heberer, Susanne; Wustlich, Alexander; Lage, Hermann; Nelson, John J; Nelson, Katja

2012-01-01

The aim of the present clinical study was the evaluation of the osteogenic potential of mesenchymal cells embedded in the provisional matrix of non-augmented and with Bio-Oss collagen-augmented human extraction sockets after 6 weeks of healing time. Twenty-five patients with 47 extraction sites participated in the present study. After tooth removal, the extraction sockets were augmented with Bio-Oss collagen or not augmented. At implant placement, bone biopsies of the extraction sockets were obtained. The immunohistochemical analysis of the osteogenic potential of the mesenchymal cells in the provisional matrix was performed using three monoclonal antibodies: core-binding factor α1 (Cbfa1)/runt-related protein (Runx)2, osteonectin (OSN/secreted protein acidic and rich in cyst [SPARC]) and osteocalcin (OC). The statistical analysis was performed using two-factorial analysis for repeated measures, Mann-Whitney U-test and Spearman's rank-order correlation coefficient. Of 47 extraction sockets examined, 17 sockets demonstrated an almost complete ossification. Hence, the provisional matrix of the 30 remaining extraction sockets (21 non-augmented, 9 augmented) was immunohistochemically investigated. No evidence of acute or chronic inflammation was noted in any of the specimens. In the provisional matrix of the non-grafted socket, the median amount of Cbfa1/Runx2-positive cells was 72.3%, of OSN (SPARC) 66.9% and of OC 23.4%, whereas in the grafted sockets the median rate of immunopositive cells staining with Cbfa1/Runx2 was 73.3%, of OSN (SPARC) 61.4% and of OC 20.1%. There was no significant difference in the proportion of positive cells expressed by Cbfa1/Runx2, OSN/SPARC and OC between the grafted and non-grafted socket. Furthermore, the cell density did not correlate to the quantity of stained cells independent of the used proteins. After a 6-week healing period, the provisional matrix was demonstrated to have a high proportion of cells displaying a maturation of
26 CFR 1.280F-4T - Special rules for listed property (temporary).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... 26 Internal Revenue 3 2013-04-01 2013-04-01 false Special rules for listed property (temporary). 1... (CONTINUED) INCOME TAX (CONTINUED) INCOME TAXES (CONTINUED) Items Not Deductible § 1.280F-4T Special rules...) and § 1.280F-6(d)(2)) in 1984 through 1988 is 80 percent, 70 percent, 60 percent, and 55 percent...
26 CFR 1.280F-4T - Special rules for listed property (temporary).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... 26 Internal Revenue 3 2014-04-01 2014-04-01 false Special rules for listed property (temporary). 1... (CONTINUED) INCOME TAX (CONTINUED) INCOME TAXES (CONTINUED) Items Not Deductible § 1.280F-4T Special rules...) and § 1.280F-6(d)(2)) in 1984 through 1988 is 80 percent, 70 percent, 60 percent, and 55 percent...
26 CFR 1.280F-4T - Special rules for listed property (temporary).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 26 Internal Revenue 3 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Special rules for listed property (temporary). 1... (CONTINUED) INCOME TAX (CONTINUED) INCOME TAXES (CONTINUED) Items Not Deductible § 1.280F-4T Special rules...) and § 1.280F-6(d)(2)) in 1984 through 1988 is 80 percent, 70 percent, 60 percent, and 55 percent...
26 CFR 1.280F-4T - Special rules for listed property (temporary).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... 26 Internal Revenue 3 2012-04-01 2012-04-01 false Special rules for listed property (temporary). 1... (CONTINUED) INCOME TAX (CONTINUED) INCOME TAXES (CONTINUED) Items Not Deductible § 1.280F-4T Special rules...) and § 1.280F-6(d)(2)) in 1984 through 1988 is 80 percent, 70 percent, 60 percent, and 55 percent...

A multi-decade record of high-quality fCO2 data in version 3 of the Surface Ocean CO2 Atlas (SOCAT)

USGS Publications Warehouse

Bakker, Dorothee; Landa, Camilla S.; Pfeil, Benjamin; Metzl, Nicolas; O’Brien, Kevin; Olsen, Are; Smith, Karl; Cosca, Cathy; Harasawa, Sumiko; Nakaoka, Shin-ichiro; Jones, Stephen; Nojiri, Yukihiro; Steinhoff, Tobias; Sweeney, Colm; Schuster, Ute; Takahashi, Taro; Tilbrook, Bronte; Wada, Chisato; Wanninkhof, Rik; Alin, Simone R.; Balestrini, Carlos F.; Barbero, Leticia; Bates, Nicholas; Bianchi, Alejandro A.; Bonou, Frédéric; Boutin, Jacqueline; Bozec, Yann; Burger, Eugene F.; Cai, Wei-Jun; Castle, Robert D.; Chen, Liqi; Chierici, Melissa; Currie, Kim; Evans, Wiley; Featherstone, Charles; Feely, Richard; Fransson, Agneta; Goyet, Catherine; Greenwood, Naomi; Gregor, Luke; Hankin, Steven C.; Hardman-Mountford, Nick J.; Harlay, Jérôme; Hauck, Judith; Hoppema, Mario; Humphreys, Matthew P.; Hunt, Christopher W.; Huss, Betty; Ibánhez, J. Severino P.; Johannessen, Truls; Keeling, Ralph F.; Kitidis, Vassilis; Körtzinger, Arne; Kozyr, Alex; Krasakopoulou, Evangelia; Kuwata, Akira; Landschützer, Peter; Lauvset, Siv K.; Lefèvre, Nathalie; Lo Monaco, Claire; Manke, Ansley; Mathis, Jeremy T.; Merlivat, Liliane; Millero, Frank J.; Monteiro, Pedro M. S.; Munro, David R.; Murata, Akihiko; Newberger, Timothy; Omar, Abdirahman M.; Ono, Tsuneo; Paterson, Kristina; Pearce, David; Pierrot, Denis; Robbins, Lisa L.; Saito, Shu; Salisbury, Joe; Schlitzer, Reiner; Schneider, Bernd; Schweitzer, Roland; Sieger, Rainer; Skjelvan, Ingunn; Sullivan, Kevin F.; Sutherland, Stewart C.; Sutton, Adrienne J.; Tadokoro, Kazuaki; Telszewski, Maciej; Tuma, Matthias; van Heuven, Steven M. A. C.; Vandemark, Douglas; Ward, Brian; Watson, Andrew J.; Xu, Suqing

2016-01-01

The Surface Ocean CO2 Atlas (SOCAT) is a synthesis of quality-controlled f CO2 (fugacity of carbon dioxide) values for the global surface oceans and coastal seas with regular updates. Version 3 of SOCAT has 14.7 million f CO2 values from 3646 data sets covering the years 1957 to 2014. This latest version has an additional 4.6 million f CO2 values relative to version 2 and extends the record from 2011 to 2014. Version 3 also significantly increases the data availability for 2005 to 2013. SOCAT has an average of approximately 1.2 million surface water f CO2 values per year for the years 2006 to 2012. Quality and documentation of the data has improved. A new feature is the data set quality control (QC) flag of E for data from alternative sensors and platforms. The accuracy of surface water f CO2 has been defined for all data set QC flags. Automated range checking has been carried out for all data sets during their upload into SOCAT. The upgrade of the interactive Data Set Viewer (previously known as the Cruise Data Viewer) allows better interrogation of the SOCAT data collection and rapid creation of high-quality figures for scientific presentations. Automated data upload has been launched for version 4 and will enable more frequent SOCAT releases in the future. High-profile scientific applications of SOCAT include quantification of the ocean sink for atmospheric carbon dioxide and its long-term variation, detection of ocean acidification, as well as evaluation of coupled-climate and ocean-only biogeochemical models. Users of SOCAT data products are urged to acknowledge the contribution of data providers, as stated in the SOCAT Fair Data Use Statement. This ESSD (Earth System Science Data) “living data” publication documents the methods and data sets used for the assembly of this new version of the SOCAT data collection and compares these with those used for earlier versions of the data collection (Pfeil et al., 2013; Sabine et al., 2013; Bakker et al., 2014).
EFFECT OF TRICHLOROETHYLENE ON DNA METHYLATION AND EXPRESSION OF EARLY-INTERMEDIATE PROTOONCOGENES IN THE LIVER OF B6C3F1 MICE. (R825384)

EPA Science Inventory

Trichloroethylene (TCE) is a multimedia environmental pollution that is carcinogenic in mouse liver. The ability of TCE to modulate DNA methylation and the expression of immediate-early protooncogenes was evaluated. Female B6C3F1 mice were administered 1000 mg/kg TCE by gavage 5 ...
External quality assessment for laboratory testing of HLA-B*15:02 allele in relation to carbamazepine therapy.

PubMed

Lin, Guigao; Zhang, Kuo; Han, Yanxi; Xie, Jiehong; Li, Jinming

2018-02-01

Due to the significant risk of developing Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), the use of carbamazepine is not recommended in patients carrying the human leukocyte antigen B (HLA-B) *15:02 allele. In an effort to guarantee reliable community-based HLA-B*15:02 testing throughout China, a HLA-B*15:02 genotyping external quality assessment (EQA) program was set up. In 2016, 10 genomic DNA samples with known HLA-B*15:02 allele status were sent to 37 laboratories from 16 provinces with a request for routine HLA-B*15:02 screening. The samples were validated using Sanger sequencing by a reference laboratory. Both genotyping results and clinical written reports were evaluated. Thirty-six of the participating laboratories correctly identified the HLA-B*15:02 allele status for all EQA samples. However, one lab failed to identify any positive challenges. The overall analytical sensitivity was 97.3% (180/185 challenges; 95% confidence interval: 93.8%-99.1%) and the analytic specificity was 100% (185/185; 95% confidence interval: 98.0%-100%). A review of the written reports showed that the clinical reporting for HLA-B*15:02 detection should be improved. Some essential information was missing, most notably laboratory information/contact, therapeutic recommendations, and methodology. External quality assessment is valuable in assessing and improving the quality of laboratory testing of HLA-B*15:02 allele. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Airworthiness Qualification Criteria for Rotorcraft with External Sling Loads

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Key, David L.

2002-01-01

This report presents the results of a study to develop airworthiness requirements for rotorcraft with external sling loads. The report starts with a review of the various phenomena that limit external sling load operations. Specifically discussed are the rotorcraft-load aeroservoelastic stability, load-on handling qualities, effects of automatic flight control system failure, load suspension system failure, and load stability at speed. Based on past experience and treatment of these phenomena, criteria are proposed to form a package for airworthiness qualification. The desired end objective is a set of operational flight envelopes for the rotorcraft with intended loads that can be provided to the user to guide operations in the field. The specific criteria proposed are parts of ADS-33E-PRF; MIL-F-9490D, and MIL-STD-913A all applied in the context of external sling loads. The study was performed for the Directorate of Engineering, U.S. Army Aviation and Missile Command (AMCOM), as part of the contract monitored by the Aerothermodynamics Directorate, U.S. Army AMCOM.
Magnetic properties of the Tb4 + ion in Li2TbF6

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guillot, M.; El-Ghozzi, M.; Avignant, D.; Ferey, G.

1993-05-01

Both oxygen and fluorine have a partiality towards the stabilization of high oxidation states of rare earths such as Ce, Pr, and Tb. During the study of the MF-M'F4 (M=alkaline metal; M' rare ion) the compound Li2TbF6 was found to constitute the only representative obtained under ambient pressure of a structural type, namely α-Li2ZrF6, known until now only through the high pressure form. Magnetic measurements were carried out over the 1.4-300 K temperature range in continuous magnetic fields up to 20 T produced by a Bitter magnet. At low temperature and in H higher than 15 T, the magnetization M was observed to be field independent and very close to the calculated Tb4+ free ion value, i.e., 7μB; on the other hand, the data do not present any departure from the Brillouin function of the pure 8S7/2 state. The reciprocal magnetic susceptibility obeys a Curie-Weiss law leading to an effective moment of 7.86μB. A very unusual behavior of the terbium ion which presents a 4+ oxidation state is concluded: to the best of our knowledge, it is the first observation of this form. The so-found spherical 4f7 electronic configuration is the most compatible with the high coordination number of eight. Finally, the discussion within the series Li2MIVF6 compounds to understand the influence of both electronic configuration and size effects is presented.
Use of Vortex Generators to Reduce Distortion for Mach 1.6 Streamline-Traced Supersonic Inlets

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Baydar, Ezgihan; Lu, Frank; Slater, John W.; Trefny, Chuck

2016-01-01

Reduce the total pressure distortion at the engine-fan face due to low-momentum flow caused by the interaction of an external terminal shock at the turbulent boundary layer along a streamline-traced external-compression (STEX) inlet for Mach 1.6.
Baseline Assessment of 25-Hydroxyvitamin D Reference Material and Proficiency Testing/External Quality Assurance Material Commutability: A Vitamin D Standardization Program Study.

PubMed

Phinney, Karen W; Sempos, Christopher T; Tai, Susan S-C; Camara, Johanna E; Wise, Stephen A; Eckfeldt, John H; Hoofnagle, Andrew N; Carter, Graham D; Jones, Julia; Myers, Gary L; Durazo-Arvizu, Ramon; Miller, W Greg; Bachmann, Lorin M; Young, Ian S; Pettit, Juanita; Caldwell, Grahame; Liu, Andrew; Brooks, Stephen P J; Sarafin, Kurtis; Thamm, Michael; Mensink, Gert B M; Busch, Markus; Rabenberg, Martina; Cashman, Kevin D; Kiely, Mairead; Galvin, Karen; Zhang, Joy Y; Kinsella, Michael; Oh, Kyungwon; Lee, Sun-Wha; Jung, Chae L; Cox, Lorna; Goldberg, Gail; Guberg, Kate; Meadows, Sarah; Prentice, Ann; Tian, Lu; Brannon, Patsy M; Lucas, Robyn M; Crump, Peter M; Cavalier, Etienne; Merkel, Joyce; Betz, Joseph M

2017-09-01

The Vitamin D Standardization Program (VDSP) coordinated a study in 2012 to assess the commutability of reference materials and proficiency testing/external quality assurance materials for total 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] in human serum, the primary indicator of vitamin D status. A set of 50 single-donor serum samples as well as 17 reference and proficiency testing/external quality assessment materials were analyzed by participating laboratories that used either immunoassay or LC-MS methods for total 25(OH)D. The commutability test materials included National Institute of Standards and Technology Standard Reference Material 972a Vitamin D Metabolites in Human Serum as well as materials from the College of American Pathologists and the Vitamin D External Quality Assessment Scheme. Study protocols and data analysis procedures were in accordance with Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute guidelines. The majority of the test materials were found to be commutable with the methods used in this commutability study. These results provide guidance for laboratories needing to choose appropriate reference materials and select proficiency or external quality assessment programs and will serve as a foundation for additional VDSP studies.
NTP Toxicology and Carcinogenesis Studies of Cobalt Sulfate Heptahydrate (CAS No. 10026-24-1) in F344/N Rats and B6C3F1 Mice (Inhalation Studies).

PubMed

1998-08-01

Cobalt sulfate is used in the electroplating and electro chemical industries. It is also used as a coloring agent for ceramics and as a drying agent in inks, paints, varnishes, and linoleum. Cobalt sulfate may be added to animal feed as a mineral supplement and has been used as a top dressing on pasture lands. Cobalt sulfate was nominated by the National Cancer Institute for study based on a lack of information on the toxicity of soluble salts. Male and female F344/N rats and B6C3F1 mice were exposed to cobalt sulfate heptahydrate (approximately 99% pure) by inhalation for 2 years. Genetic toxicology studies were conducted in Salmonella typhimurium. The results of prechronic inhalation toxicity studies were reported previously (Bucher et al., 1990; NTP, 1991). 2-YEAR STUDY IN RATS: Groups of 50 male and 50 female rats were exposed to aerosols containing 0, 0.3, 1.0, or 3.0 mg/m3 cobalt sulfate heptahydrate 6 hours per day, 5 days per week, for 105 weeks. Survival and Body Weights Survival of exposed males and females was similar to that of the chamber controls. Mean body weights of exposed male and female rats were similar to those of the chamber controls throughout the study. Pathology Findings The incidences and severities of proteinosis, alveolar epithelial metaplasia, granulomatous alveolar inflammation, and interstitial fibrosis were markedly greater in all exposed groups of male and female rats than in the chamber controls. The incidences of alveolar epithelial hyperplasia in all groups of exposed males and in females exposed to 3.0 mg/m3 were significantly greater than those in the chamber control groups, as were the incidences of squamous metaplasia in 1.0 mg/m3 females and atypical alveolar epithelial hyperplasia in 3.0 mg/m3 females. In 3.0 mg/m3 males, the combined incidence of alveolar/ bronchiolar neoplasms (adenoma and/or carcinoma) was significantly greater than in the chamber controls. In female rats exposed to 1.0 or 3.0 mg/m3, the incidences of
On charged particle equilibrium violation in external photon fields.

PubMed

Bouchard, Hugo; Seuntjens, Jan; Palmans, Hugo

2012-03-01

In a recent paper by Bouchard et al. [Med. Phys. 36(10), 4654-4663 (2009)], a theoretical model of quality correction factors for idealistic so-called plan-class specific reference (PCSR) fields was proposed. The reasoning was founded on the definition of PCSR fields made earlier by Alfonso et al. [Med. Phys. 35(11), 5179-5186 (2008)], requiring the beam to achieve charged particle equilibrium (CPE), in a time-averaged sense, in the reference medium. The relation obtained by Bouchard et al. was derived using Fano's theorem (1954) which states that if CPE is established in a given medium, the dose is independent of point-to-point density variations. A potential misconception on the achievability of the condition required by Fano (1954) might be responsible for false practical conclusions, both in the definition of PCSR fields as well as the theoretical model of quality correction factor. In this paper, the practical achievability of CPE in external beams is treated in detail. The fact that this condition is not achievable in single or composite deliveries is illustrated by an intuitive method and is also formally demonstrated. Fano's theorem is not applicable in external beam radiation dosimetry without (virtually) removing attenuation effects, and therefore, the relation conditionally defined by Bouchard et al. (2009) cannot be valid in practice. A definition of PCSR fields in the recent formalism for nonstandard beams proposed by Alfonso et al. (2008) should be modified, revising the criterion of CPE condition. The authors propose reconsidering the terminology used to describe standard and nonstandard beams. The authors argue that quality correction factors of intensity modulated radiation therapy PCSR fields (i.e., k(Q(pcsr),Q) (f(pcsr),f(ref) )) could be unity under ideal conditions, but it is concluded that further investigation is necessary to confirm that hypothesis.
Stereotactic Comparison Study of (18)F-Alfatide and (18)F-FDG PET Imaging in an LLC Tumor-Bearing C57BL/6 Mouse Model.

PubMed

Wei, Yu-Chun; Gao, Yongsheng; Zhang, Jianbo; Fu, Zheng; Zheng, Jinsong; Liu, Ning; Hu, Xudong; Hou, Wenhong; Yu, Jinming; Yuan, Shuanghu

2016-06-28

This study aimed to stereotactically compare the PET imaging performance of (18)F-Alfatide ((18)F-ALF-NOTA-PRGD2, denoted as (18)F-Alfatide) and (18)F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) and immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining in Lewis lung carcinoma (LLC) tumor-bearing C57BL/6 mouse model. (18)F-FDG standard uptake values (SUVs) were higher than (18)F-Alfatide SUVs in tumors, most of the normal tissues and organs except for the bladder. Tumor-to-brain, tumor-to-lung, and tumor-to-heart ratios of (18)F-Alfatide PET were significantly higher than those of (18)F-FDG PET (P < 0.001). The spatial heterogeneity of the tumors was detected, and the tracer accumulation enhanced from the outer layer to the inner layer consistently using the two tracers. The parameters of the tumors were significantly correlated with each other between (18)F-FDG SUV and GLUT-1 (R = 0.895, P < 0.001), (18)F-Alfatide SUV and αvβ3 (R = 0.595, P = 0.019), (18)F-FDG SUV and (18)F-Alfatide SUV (R = 0.917, P < 0.001), and GLUT-1 and αvβ3 (R = 0.637, P = 0.011). Therefore, (18)F-Alfatide PET may be an effective tracer for tumor detection, spatial heterogeneity imaging and an alternative supplement to (18)F-FDG PET, particularly for patients with enhanced characteristics in the brain, chest tumors or diabetes, meriting further study.
The Relation among Sleep, Routines, and Externalizing Behavior in Children with an Autism Spectrum Disorder

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Henderson, Jill A.; Barry, Tammy D.; Bader, Stephanie H.; Jordan, Sara Sytsma

2011-01-01

The present study examined relations among sleep, routines, and externalizing behavior (based on parent report) in 115 children ages 6 to 12 years in two groups: 58 children with an autism spectrum disorder (age M = 9.0, SD = 2.09) and 57 non-ASD children (age M = 8.25, SD = 1.98). Within the ASD group, sleep hygiene and sleep quality were related…
[Effect of External Applying Compound Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F. on Joint Pain of Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients].

PubMed

Jiao, Juan; Tang, Xiao-po; Yuan, Jing; Liu, Xu; Liu, Hui; Zhang, Chun-yan; Wang, Li-ying; Jiang, Quan

2016-01-01

To observe the effectiveness and safety of external applying Compound Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F. (TwHF) in relieving joint pain in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients. In this double-blinded, randomized multicenter trial, a total of 174 moderately active RA patients were enrolled and randomly assigned to the treatment group (treated with Compound TwHF, 87 cases) and the placebo control group (87 cases). Compound TwHF or placebo was externally applied in painful joints, 20 g each time, once per day for 8 weeks. Self-reported joint pain relief was taken as a primary effective indicator. Visual analogue scale for pain (VAS), disease activity score of 28 joints (DAS28), VAS for general health (GH) were evaluated before treatment, at week 4 and after treatment. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and hypersensitive C reactive protein (hs-CRP) were tested before and after treatment. Menstrual changes in females were observed during treatment. Skin irritation occurred during the recording process was assessed using skin irritation strength. Intention to treat (ITT) was statistically analyzed. The joint pain relief rate in the treatment group was 90.8% (79/87 cases), higher than that in the placebo control group (69.0%, 60/87 cases; P = 0.001). VAS pain score, DAS28, VAS for GH score were significantly improved in the two groups at week 4 of treatment and after treatment, as compared with before treatment (P < 0.01). ESR and hs-CRP levels significantly decreased in the treatment group after treatment (P < 0.05, P < 0.01). No difference was found in post-treatment VAS pain score, DAS28, VAS for GH score, ESR, or hs-CRP between the two groups (P > 0.05). Eight adverse events occurred in the treatment group (5 skin allergy, 1 intolerance of medical odor, and 2 mild liver injury), while 3 adverse events occurred in the placebo control group (2 skin allergy, 1 mild liver injury). There was no statistical difference in adverse event between the two groups (P > 0.05). No
Longitudinal changes in glucocorticoid receptor exon 1F methylation and psychopathology after military deployment

PubMed Central

Schür, R R; Boks, M P; Rutten, B P F; Daskalakis, N P; de Nijs, L; van Zuiden, M; Kavelaars, A; Heijnen, C J; Joëls, M; Kahn, R S; Geuze, E; Vermetten, E; Vinkers, C H

2017-01-01

Several cross-sectional studies have demonstrated the relevance of DNA methylation of the glucocorticoid receptor exon 1F region (GR-1F) for trauma-related psychopathology. We conducted a longitudinal study to examine GR-1F methylation changes over time in relation to trauma exposure and the development of post-deployment psychopathology. GR-1F methylation (52 loci) was quantified using pyrosequencing in whole blood of 92 military men 1 month before and 6 months after a 4-month deployment period to Afghanistan. GR-1F methylation overall (mean methylation and the number of methylated loci) and functional methylation (methylation at loci associated with GR exon 1F expression) measures were examined. We first investigated the effect of exposure to potentially traumatic events during deployment on these measures. Subsequently, changes in GR-1F methylation were related to changes in mental health problems (total Symptom Checklist-90 score) and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms (Self-Report Inventory for PTSD). Trauma exposure during deployment was associated with an increase in all methylation measures, but development of mental health problems 6 months after deployment was only significantly associated with an increased functional methylation. Emergence of post-deployment PTSD symptoms was not related to increased functional methylation over time. Pre-deployment methylation levels did not predict post-deployment psychopathology. To our knowledge, this is the first study to prospectively demonstrate trauma-related increases in GR-1F methylation, and it shows that only increases at specific functionally relevant sites predispose for post-deployment psychopathology. PMID:28742078
Solitary waves in the nonlinear Dirac equation in the presence of external driving forces

DOE PAGES

Mertens, Franz G.; Cooper, Fred; Quintero, Niurka R.; ...

2016-01-05

In this paper, we consider the nonlinear Dirac (NLD) equation in (1 + 1) dimensions with scalar–scalar self interaction g 2/κ + 1 (Ψ¯Ψ) κ + 1 in the presence of external forces as well as damping of the form f(x) - iμγ 0Ψ, where both f and Ψ are two-component spinors. We develop an approximate variational approach using collective coordinates (CC) for studying the time dependent response of the solitary waves to these external forces. This approach predicts intrinsic oscillations of the solitary waves, i.e. the amplitude, width and phase all oscillate with the same frequency. The translational motionmore » is also affected, because the soliton position oscillates around a mean trajectory. For κ = 1 we solve explicitly the CC equations of the variational approximation for slow moving solitary waves in a constant external force without damping and find reasonable agreement with solving numerically the CC equations. Finally, we then compare the results of the variational approximation with no damping with numerical simulations of the NLD equation for κ = 1, when the components of the external force are of the form f j = r j exp(–iΚx) and again find agreement if we take into account a certain linear excitation with specific wavenumber that is excited together with the intrinsic oscillations such that the momentum in a transformed NLD equation is conserved.« less
Histopathologic and immunohistochemical features of Hashimoto thyroiditis.

PubMed

Amani, H Kazem

2011-01-01

Intrathyroid lymphoid tissue is accrued in Hashimoto thyroiditis (HT). Histologically, this acquired lymphoid tissue bears a close resemblance to mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) and can evolve to lymphoma. To demonstrate the morphological, and immunohistochemical profiles of Hashimoto thyroiditis and to ascertain the importance of light chain restriction in distinguishing HT with extensive lymphoplasmacytoid infiltrate from MALT lymphoma. We studied histopathologically and immunohistochemically (CD20, CD3, Igk, Igl and cytokeratin) 30 cases of HT for evaluation of the lymphoid infiltrate and the presence of lymphoepithelial lesions (LELs). Distinguishing between early thyroid lymphoma and HT was evaluated by light chain restriction. These findings were compared with two cases of primary thyroid lymphoma. The histopathological findings were characteristic of HT. Immunohistochemistry confirmed inconspicuous, rare B-cell LELs as well as a prominent T-lymphocyte population. Testing for light chain restriction showed polyclonal population of plasma cells. The cases of MALT lymphoma had distinct destructive lymphoepithelial lesions, B-cell immunophenotyping and showed kappa light chain restriction in the plasmacytoid population. Hashimoto thyroiditis differs both histopathologically and immunohistochemically from thyroid lymphoma. In suspicious cases, immunohistochemistry could be helpful in reaching a definitive diagnosis.
SU-E-T-571: Newly Emerging Integrated Transmission Detector Systems Provide Online Quality Assurance of External Beam Radiation Therapy

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

Hoffman, D; Chung, E; Hess, C

2015-06-15

Purpose: Two newly emerging transmission detectors positioned upstream from the patient have been evaluated for online quality assurance of external beam radiotherapy. The prototype for the Integral Quality Monitor (IQM), developed by iRT Systems GmbH (Koblenz, Germany) is a large-area ion chamber mounted on the linac accessory tray to monitor photon fluence, energy, beam shape, and gantry position during treatment. The ion chamber utilizes a thickness gradient which records variable response dependent on beam position. The prototype of Delta4 Discover™, developed by ScandiDos (Uppsala, Sweden) is a linac accessory tray mounted 4040 diode array that measures photon fluence during patientmore » treatment. Both systems are employable for patient specific QA prior to treatment delivery. Methods: Our institution evaluated the reproducibility of measurements using various beam types, including VMAT treatment plans with both the IQM ion chamber and the Delta4 Discover diode array. Additionally, the IQM’s effect on photon fluence, dose response, simulated beam error detection, and the accuracy of the integrated barometer, thermometer, and inclinometer were characterized. The evaluated photon beam errors are based on the annual tolerances specified in AAPM TG-142. Results: Repeated VMAT treatments were measured with 0.16% reproducibility by the IQM and 0.55% reproducibility by the Delta4 Discover. The IQM attenuated 6, 10, and 15 MV photon beams by 5.43±0.02%, 4.60±0.02%, and 4.21±0.03% respectively. Photon beam profiles were affected <1.5% in the non-penumbra regions. The IQM’s ion chamber’s dose response was linear and the thermometer, barometer, and inclinometer agreed with other calibrated devices. The device detected variations in monitor units delivered (1%), field position (3mm), single MLC leaf positions (13mm), and photon energy. Conclusion: We have characterized two new transmissions detector systems designed to provide in-vivo like measurements
Primordial odontogenic tumor: An immunohistochemical profile

PubMed Central

Bologna-Molina, Ronell; Mikami, Toshinari; Pereira-Prado, Vanesa; Pires, Fabio-Ramoa; Carlos-Bregni, Roman

2017-01-01

Background Primordial Odontogenic Tumor (POT) is a recently described odontogenic tumor characterized by a variably cellular loose fibrous tissue with areas similar to the dental papilla, covered by cuboidal to columnar epithelium that resembles the internal epithelium of the enamel organ, surrounded at least partly by a delicate fibrous capsule. The purpose of this study was to investigate the possible histogenesis and biological behavior of this rare tumor by means of a wide immunohistochemical analysis of its epithelial and mesenchymal components. Material and Methods The immunoexpression of twenty-three different antibodies were evaluated in four cases of POT. Results The epithelial cells that cover the periphery of the tumor showed immunopositivity for Cytokeratins 14 and 19, while Amelogenin, Glut-1, MOC-31, Caveolin-1. Galectin-3, PITX2, p53, Bax, Bcl-2, Survivin and PTEN were variably expressed in focal areas. The mesenchymal component of the tumor was positive for Vimentin, Syndecan-1, PITX2, Endoglin (CD105), CD 34, Cyclin D1, Bax, Bcl-2, Survivin and p53. PTEN and CD 90 showed a moderate positivity. BRAF V600E and Calretinin were negative in all samples. Cell proliferation markers (Ki-67, MCM-7) were expressed in <5% of the tumor cells. Conclusions According to these immunohistochemical findings, we may conclude that POT is a benign odontogenic tumor in which there is both epithelial and mesenchymal activity during its histogenesis, as there is expression of certain components in particular zones in both tissues that suggests this tumor develops during the immature (primordial) stage of tooth development, leading to its inclusion within the group of benign mixed epithelial and mesenchymal odontogenic tumours in the current World Health Organization classification of these lesions. Key words:Immunohistochemistry, jaw tumors, odontogenic, primordial. PMID:28390134
Anomaly of strings of 6d {N}=(1,0) theories

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shimizu, Hiroyuki; Tachikawa, Yuji

2016-11-01

We obtain the anomaly polynomial of strings of general 6d {N}=(1,0) theories in terms of anomaly inflow. Our computation sheds some light on the reason why the simplest 6d {N}=(1,0) theory has E 8 flavor symmetry, and also partially explains a curious numerology in F-theory.
Pou4f1 and Pou4f2 Are Dispensable for the Long-Term Survival of Adult Retinal Ganglion Cells in Mice

PubMed Central

Huang, Liang; Hu, Fang; Xie, Xiaoling; Harder, Jeffery; Fernandes, Kimberly; Zeng, Xiang-yun; Libby, Richard; Gan, Lin

2014-01-01

Purpose To investigate the role of Pou4f1 and Pou4f2 in the survival of adult retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). Methods Conditional alleles of Pou4f1 and Pou4f2 were generated (Pou4f1loxP and Pou4f2loxP respectively) for the removal of Pou4f1 and Pou4f2 in adult retinas. A tamoxifen-inducible Cre was used to delete Pou4f1 and Pou4f2 in adult mice and retinal sections and flat mounts were subjected to immunohistochemistry to confirm the deletion of both alleles and to quantify the changes in the number of RGCs and other retinal neurons. To determine the effect of loss of Pou4f1 and Pou4f2 on RGC survival after axonal injury, controlled optic nerve crush (CONC) was performed and RGC death was assessed. Results Pou4f1 and Pou4f2 were ablated two weeks after tamoxifen treatment. Retinal interneurons and Müller glial cells are not affected by the ablation of Pou4f1 or Pou4f2 or both. Although the deletion of both Pou4f1 and Pou4f2 slightly delays the death of RGCs at 3 days post-CONC in adult mice, it does not affect the cell death progress afterwards. Moreoever, deletion of Pou4f1 or Pou4f2 or both has no impact on the long-term viability of RGCs at up to 6 months post-tamoxifen treatment. Conclusion Pou4f1 and Pou4f2 are involved in the acute response to damage to RGCs but are dispensable for the long-term survival of adult RGC in mice. PMID:24736625
Pyridostigmine bromide (PYR) alters immune function in B6C3F1 mice.

PubMed

Peden-Adams, M M; Dudley, A C; EuDaly, J G; Allen, C T; Gilkeson, G S; Keil, D E

2004-02-01

Pyridostigmine bromide (PYR) is an anticholinesterase drug indicated for the treatment of myasthenia gravis and neuromuscular blockade reversal. It acts as a reversible cholinesterase inhibitor and was used as a pretreatment for soldiers during Operation Desert Storm to protect against possible nerve gas attacks. Since that time, PYR has been implicated as a possible causative agent contributing to Gulf War Illness. PYR's mechanism of action has been well-delineated with regards to its effects on the nervous system, yet little is known regarding potential effects on immunological function. To evaluate the effects of PYR on immunological function, adult female B6C3F1 mice were gavaged daily for 14 days with PYR (0, 1, 5, 10, or 20 mg/kg/day). Immune parameters assessed were lymphoproliferation, natural killer cell activity, the SRBC-specific antibody plaque-forming cell (PFC) response, thymus and spleen weight and cellularity, and thymic and splenic CD4/CD8 lymphocyte subpopulations. Exposure to PYR did not alter splenic and thymus weight or splenic cellularity. However, 20 mg PYR/kg/day decreased thymic cellularity with decreases in both CD4+/CD8+ (20 mg/kg/day) and CD4-/CD8- (10 and 20 mg/kg/day) cell types. Functional immune assays indicated that lymphocyte proliferative responses and natural killer cell activity were normal; whereas exposure to PYR significantly decreased primary IgM antibody responses to a T-cell dependent antigen at the 1, 5, 10 and 20 mg/kg treatment levels for 14 days. This is the first study to examine the immunotoxicological effects of PYR and demonstrate that this compound selectively suppresses humoral antibody responses.

Cloning and characterization of soybean gene Fg1 encoding flavonol 3-O-glucoside/galactoside (1→6) glucosyltransferase.

PubMed

Rojas Rodas, Felipe; Di, Shaokang; Murai, Yoshinori; Iwashina, Tsukasa; Sugawara, Satoko; Mori, Tetsuya; Nakabayashi, Ryo; Yonekura-Sakakibara, Keiko; Saito, Kazuki; Takahashi, Ryoji

2016-11-01

Flavonoids are important secondary metabolites in plants. Sugar-sugar glycosyltransferases are involved in the final step of flavonoid biosynthesis and contribute to the structural diversity of flavonoids. This manuscript describes the first cloning of a sugar-sugar glucosyltransferase gene in the UGT family that attaches glucose to the 6″-position of sugar bound to a flavonol. The results provide a glimpse on the possible evolution of sugar-sugar glycosyltransferase genes and identify putative amino acids responsible for the recognition of the hydroxyl group of the sugar moiety and specification of sugar. A scheme for the genetic control of flavonol glycoside biosynthesis is proposed. Flavonol glycosides (FGs) are predominant in soybean leaves and they show substantial differences among genotypes. In previous studies, we identified two flavonoid glycoside glycosyltransferase genes that segregated in recombinant inbred lines developed from a cross between cultivars Nezumisaya and Harosoy; one was responsible for the attachment of glucose to the 2″-position of glucose or galactose that is bound to the 3-position of kaempferol and the other was involved in the attachment of glucose to the 6″-position. This study was conducted to clone and characterize the 6″-glucosyltransferase gene. Linkage mapping indicated that the gene was located in the molecular linkage group I (chromosome 20). Based on the genome sequence, we cloned a candidate cDNA, GmF3G6"Gt from Harosoy but the corresponding cDNA could not be amplified by PCR from Nezumisaya. The coding region of GmF3G6″Gt in Harosoy is 1386 bp long encoding 462 amino acids. This gene was not expressed in leaves of Nezumisaya. The GmF3G6″Gt recombinant protein converted UDP-glucose and kaempferol 3-O-glucoside or kaempferol 3-O-galactoside to kaempferol 3-O-glucosyl-(1→6)-glucoside or kaempferol 3-O-glucosyl-(1→6)-galactoside, respectively. These results indicate that GmF3G6″Gt encodes a flavonol 3-O
The Jak2 Inhibitor, G6, Alleviates Jak2-V617F-Mediated Myeloproliferative Neoplasia by Providing Significant Therapeutic Efficacy to the Bone Marrow1

PubMed Central

Kirabo, Annet; Park, Sung O; Majumder, Anurima; Gali, Meghanath; Reinhard, Mary K; Wamsley, Heather L; Zhao, Zhizhuang Joe; Cogle, Christopher R; Bisht, Kirpal S; Keserü, György M; Sayeski, Peter P

2011-01-01

We recently developed a Janus kinase 2 (Jak2) small-molecule inhibitor called G6 and found that it inhibits Jak2-V617F-mediated pathologic cell growth in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo. However, its ability to inhibit Jak2-V617F-mediated myeloproliferative neoplasia, with particular emphasis in the bone marrow, has not previously been examined. Here, we investigated the efficacy of G6 in a transgenic mouse model of Jak2-V617F-mediated myeloproliferative neoplasia. We found that G6 provided therapeutic benefit to the peripheral blood as determined by elimination of leukocytosis, thrombocytosis, and erythrocytosis. G6 normalized the pathologically high plasma concentrations of interleukin 6 (IL-6). In the liver, G6 eliminated Jak2-V617F-driven extramedullary hematopoiesis. With respect to the spleen, G6 significantly reduced both the splenomegaly and megakaryocytic hyperplasia. In the critically important bone marrow, G6 normalized the pathologically high levels of phospho-Jak2 and phospho-signal transducer and activator of transcription 5 (STAT5). It significantly reduced the megakaryocytic hyperplasia in the marrow and completely normalized the M/E ratio. Most importantly, G6 selectively reduced the mutant Jak2 burden by 67%on average, with virtual elimination of mutant Jak2 cells in one third of all treated mice. Lastly, clonogenic assays using marrow stem cells from the myeloproliferative neoplasm mice revealed a time-dependent elimination of the clonogenic growth potential of these cells by G6. Collectively, these data indicate that G6 exhibits exceptional efficacy in the peripheral blood, liver, spleen, and, most importantly, in the bone marrow, thereby raising the possibility that this compound may alter the natural history of Jak2-V617F-mediated myeloproliferative neoplasia. PMID:22131881
Guidelines for External Reviews of Quality Assurance Agencies in the European Higher Education Area. ENQA Occasional Papers 19

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

ENQA (European Association for Quality Assurance in Higher Education), 2012

2012-01-01

In accordance with the ENQA (European Association for Quality Assurance in Higher Education) membership criteria laid down in the Statutes of ENQA, member agencies are required to undergo external reviews against the membership criteria, and thereby the Standards and Guidelines for Quality Assurance in the European Higher Education Area (ESG) as…
The unexpectedly bright comet C/2012 F6 (Lemmon) unveiled at near-infrared wavelengths

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

Paganini, Lucas; DiSanti, Michael A.; Mumma, Michael J.

2014-01-01

We acquired near-infrared spectra of the Oort cloud comet C/2012 F6 (Lemmon) at three different heliocentric distances (R {sub h}) during the comet's 2013 perihelion passage, providing a comprehensive measure of the outgassing behavior of parent volatiles and cosmogonic indicators. Our observations were performed pre-perihelion at R {sub h} = 1.2 AU with CRIRES (on 2013 February 2 and 4), and post-perihelion at R {sub h} = 0.75 AU with CSHELL (on March 31 and April 1) and R {sub h} = 1.74 AU with NIRSPEC (on June 20). We detected 10 volatile species (H{sub 2}O, OH* prompt emission, C{submore » 2}H{sub 6}, CH{sub 3}OH, H{sub 2}CO, HCN, CO, CH{sub 4}, NH{sub 3}, and NH{sub 2}), and obtained upper limits for two others (C{sub 2}H{sub 2} and HDO). One-dimensional spatial profiles displayed different distributions for some volatiles, confirming either the existence of polar and apolar ices, or of chemically distinct active vents in the nucleus. The ortho-para ratio for water was 3.31 ± 0.33 (weighted mean of CRIRES and NIRSPEC results), implying a spin temperature >37 K at the 95% confidence limit. Our (3σ) upper limit for HDO corresponds to D/H < 2.45 × 10{sup –3} (i.e., <16 Vienna Standard Mean Ocean Water, VSMOW). At R {sub h} = 1.2 AU (CRIRES), the production rate for water was Q(H{sub 2}O) = 1.9 ± 0.1 × 10{sup 29} s{sup –1} and its rotational temperature was T {sub rot} ∼ 69 K. At R {sub h} = 0.75 AU (CSHELL), we measured Q(H{sub 2}O) = 4.6 ± 0.6 × 10{sup 29} s{sup –1} and T {sub rot} = 80 K on March 31, and 6.6 ± 0.9 × 10{sup 29} s{sup –1} and T {sub rot} = 100 K on April 1. At R {sub h} = 1.74 AU (NIRSPEC), we obtained Q(H{sub 2}O) = 1.1 ± 0.1 × 10{sup 29} s{sup –1} and T {sub rot} ∼ 50 K. The measured volatile abundance ratios classify comet C/2012 F6 as rather depleted in C{sub 2}H{sub 6} and CH{sub 3}OH, while HCN, CH{sub 4}, and CO displayed abundances close to their median values found among comets. H{sub 2}CO was the only volatile
Immunohistochemical expression of TGF-β1 and MMP-9 in periapical lesions.

PubMed

Álvares, Pâmella Recco; Arruda, José Alcides Almeida de; Silva, Leorik Pereira da; Nascimento, George João Ferreira do; Silveira, Maria Fonseca da; Sobral, Ana Paula Veras

2017-07-03

The objective of this study was to evaluate the expression of matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9) and transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β1) in periapical lesion samples correlated with the intensity of the inflammatory infiltrate and thickness of the epithelial lining. Forty-five cases of periapical lesions (23 periapical granulomas and 22 radicular cysts) were subjected to morphological and immunohistochemical analyses using anti-MMP-9 and anti-TGF-β1 antibodies. The data were analyzed using the following tests: non-parametric Mann-Whitney, chi-square, Fisher's exact test and Spearman's correlation test (P<0.05). Analysis of inflammatory infiltrate revealed that 78% of periapical granulomas presented infiltrate grade III, in contrast with 32% of radicular cysts (P<0.001). Morphological evaluation of the epithelial thickness in radicular cysts revealed the presence of atrophic epithelium in 86% of the cysts. The immunostaining of MMP-9 was score 2 in 67% of the granulomas and 77% of the cysts. Both lesions were predominantly score 1 for TGF-β1. Significant differences were confirmed between the expression scores of TGF-β1 and MMP-9 in periapical granulomas (p = 0.004) and in radicular cysts (p < 0.001). Expression of TGF-β1 was different for periapical granulomas and radicular cysts. This immunoregulatory cytokine seems more representative in asymptomatic lesions. The extracellular matrix remodeling process dependent on MMP-9 seems to be similar for both periapical granulomas and radicular cysts. TGF-β1 and MMP-9 may play an important role in the maintenance of periapical lesions.
Experimental hypo/hyperthyroidism in rats and the perinatal development of the hypothalamo-neurohypophysial system in comparison with the thyroid gland state and external features.

PubMed

Kiessig, R; Wolf, G; Dietzmann, K

1983-05-01

Neurophysin was detected immunohistochemically in the hypothalamo-neurohypophysial system of Wistar rats not before fetal day 18. Formerly, neurophysin was identified on day 16 of intrauterine life using another breeding stock of Wistar rats, but the same immunohistochemical reagents. In pregnant rats, experimentally induced hypo/hyperthyroidism beginning with day 13 of gestation failed to show any evident influence on the first appearance of immunohistochemically detectable neurophysin during the fetal development. Otherwise, significant effects on fetal body growth and other external features as well as the fetal thyroid state and histochemically demonstrable thyroid peroxidase activity were shown. The influence of thiamazol on the fetal thyroid peroxidase points out a primary effect and indicates the permeability of the placenta to this antithyroid drug.
The bidirectional pathways between internalizing and externalizing problems and academic performance from 6 to 18 years.

PubMed

Van der Ende, Jan; Verhulst, Frank C; Tiemeier, Henning

2016-08-01

Internalizing and externalizing problems are associated with poor academic performance, both concurrently and longitudinally. Important questions are whether problems precede academic performance or vice versa, whether both internalizing and externalizing are associated with academic problems when simultaneously tested, and whether associations and their direction depend on the informant providing information. These questions were addressed in a sample of 816 children who were assessed four times. The children were 6-10 years at baseline and 14-18 years at the last assessment. Parent-reported internalizing and externalizing problems and teacher-reported academic performance were tested in cross-lagged models to examine bidirectional paths between these constructs. These models were compared with cross-lagged models testing paths between teacher-reported internalizing and externalizing problems and parent-reported academic performance. Both final models revealed similar pathways from mostly externalizing problems to academic performance. No paths emerged from internalizing problems to academic performance. Moreover, paths from academic performance to internalizing and externalizing problems were only found when teachers reported on children's problems and not for parent-reported problems. Additional model tests revealed that paths were observed in both childhood and adolescence. Externalizing problems place children at increased risk of poor academic performance and should therefore be the target for interventions.
Functional synergy between DP-1 and E2F-1 in the cell cycle-regulating transcription factor DRTF1/E2F.

PubMed Central

Bandara, L R; Buck, V M; Zamanian, M; Johnston, L H; La Thangue, N B

1993-01-01

It is widely believed that the cellular transcription factor DRTF1/E2F integrates cell cycle events with the transcription apparatus because during cell cycle progression in mammalian cells it interacts with molecules that are important regulators of cellular proliferation, such as the retinoblastoma tumour suppressor gene product (pRb), p107, cyclins and cyclin-dependent kinases. Thus, pRb, which negatively regulates early cell cycle progression and is frequently mutated in tumour cells, and the Rb-related protein p107, bind to and repress the transcriptional activity of DRTF1/E2F. Viral oncoproteins, such as adenovirus E1a and SV40 large T antigen, overcome such repression by sequestering pRb and p107 and in so doing are likely to activate genes regulated by DRTF1/E2F, such as cdc2, c-myc and DHFR. Two sequence-specific DNA binding proteins, E2F-1 and DP-1, which bind to the E2F site, contain a small region of similarity. The functional relationship between them has, however, been unclear. We report here that DP-1 and E2F-1 exist in a DNA binding complex in vivo and that they bind efficiently and preferentially as a heterodimer to the E2F site. Moreover, studies in yeast and Drosophila cells indicate that DP-1 and E2F-1 interact synergistically in E2F site-dependent transcriptional activation. Images PMID:8223441
Pulse-Shape Analysis of Neutron-Induced Scintillation Light in Ni-doped 6LiF/ZnS

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

Cowles, Christian C.; Behling, Richard S.; Imel, G. R.

Abstract–Alternatives to 3He are being investigated for gamma-ray insensitive neutron detection applications, including plutonium assay. One promising material is lithium-6 fluoride with silver activated zinc sulfide 6LiF/ZnS(Ag) in conjunction with a wavelength shifting plastic. Doping the 6LiF/ZnS(Ag) with nickel (Ni) has been proposed as a means of reducing the decay time of neutron signal pulses. This research performed a pulse shape comparison between Ni-doped and non-doped 6LiF/ZnS(Ag) neutron pulses. The Ni-doped 6LiF/ZnS(Ag) had a 32.7% ± 0.3 increase in neutron pulse height and a 32.4% ± 0.3 decrease in neutron pulse time compared to the non-doped 6LiF/ZnS(Ag). Doping 6LiF/ZnS(Ag) withmore » nickel may allow neutron detector operation with improved signal to noise ratios, and reduced pulse pileup affects, increasing the accuracy and range of source activities with which such a detector could operate.« less
Anatomical Entity Recognition with a Hierarchical Framework Augmented by External Resources

PubMed Central

Xu, Yan; Hua, Ji; Ni, Zhaoheng; Chen, Qinlang; Fan, Yubo; Ananiadou, Sophia; Chang, Eric I-Chao; Tsujii, Junichi

2014-01-01

References to anatomical entities in medical records consist not only of explicit references to anatomical locations, but also other diverse types of expressions, such as specific diseases, clinical tests, clinical treatments, which constitute implicit references to anatomical entities. In order to identify these implicit anatomical entities, we propose a hierarchical framework, in which two layers of named entity recognizers (NERs) work in a cooperative manner. Each of the NERs is implemented using the Conditional Random Fields (CRF) model, which use a range of external resources to generate features. We constructed a dictionary of anatomical entity expressions by exploiting four existing resources, i.e., UMLS, MeSH, RadLex and BodyPart3D, and supplemented information from two external knowledge bases, i.e., Wikipedia and WordNet, to improve inference of anatomical entities from implicit expressions. Experiments conducted on 300 discharge summaries showed a micro-averaged performance of 0.8509 Precision, 0.7796 Recall and 0.8137 F1 for explicit anatomical entity recognition, and 0.8695 Precision, 0.6893 Recall and 0.7690 F1 for implicit anatomical entity recognition. The use of the hierarchical framework, which combines the recognition of named entities of various types (diseases, clinical tests, treatments) with information embedded in external knowledge bases, resulted in a 5.08% increment in F1. The resources constructed for this research will be made publicly available. PMID:25343498
Flight Measurements of the Longitudinal Stability and Control Characteristics of the Grumman F8F-1 Airplane, TED No. NACA 2379

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Assadourian, Arthur; Reeder, John P.

1948-01-01

A series of flight tests have been made at the Langley Flight Research Division at the request of the Bureau of Aeronautics, Department of the Navy, to determine the flying qualities of the Grumman F8F-1 air- plane. This paper presents the test results necessary to determine the longitudinal stability and control characteristics end the stalling characteristics. These tests were made between February and June of 1947- The range of Mach numbers covered in this investigation was approximately 0.10 to 0.62, and no attempt was made to investigate compressibility effects at higher Mach numbers. The lateral and directional stability and control characteristics of the subject airplane have already been reported (reference 1). Also presented in this paper is a discussion of the normal accelerations induced by yawing velocity and sideslip which were considered ob,jectionable by the pilot for this airplane. A discussion of the undesirable accelerations has been included with a view towards formulating some flying-qualities requirements limiting them.
6. Historic American Buildings Survey Photographed by Henry F. Withey ...

Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

6. Historic American Buildings Survey Photographed by Henry F. Withey September, 1936 EAST ENTRANCE TO NAVE. - Mission San Buenaventura, East Main Street & South Figueroa Street, Ventura, Ventura County, CA
6. Historic American Buildings Survey, Theodore F. Dillon, Photographer December, ...

Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

6. Historic American Buildings Survey, Theodore F. Dillon, Photographer December, 1959 ROOF TRUSSES EXPOSED DURING DEMOLITION. - Provident Life & Trust Company Bank, 407-409 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, Philadelphia County, PA
Immunohistochemical Evaluation of Glucose Transporter Type 1 in Epithelial Dysplasia and Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma.

PubMed

Pereira, Karuza Maria Alves; Feitosa, Sthefane Gomes; Lima, Ana Thayssa Tomaz; Luna, Ealber Carvalho Macedo; Cavalcante, Roberta Barroso; de Lima, Kenio Costa; Chaves, Filipe Nobre; Costa, Fábio Wildson Gurgel

2016-01-01

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is the most common malignancy of the oral cavity and some of these have been documented in association or preceded by oral epithelial dysplasia (OED). Aggressive cancers with fast growth have demonstrated overexpression of some glucose transporters (GLUTs). Thus, the aim of this study was to analyze the immunohistochemical expression of the glucose transporter, GLUT-1, in OEDs and OSCCs, seeking to better elucidate the biological behavior of neoplasias. Fifteen cases were selected this research of both lesions. Five areas were analyzed from each case by counting the percentage of positive cells at 400x magnification. Immunoreactivity of GLUT-1 was observed in 100% of the samples ranging from 54.2% to 86.2% for the OSCC and 73.9% to 97.4% for the OED. Statistical test revealed that there was greater overexpression of GLUT-1 in OED than the OSCC (p=0.01). It is believed the high expression of GLUT-1 may reflect the involvement of GLUT-1 in early stages of oral carcinogenesis.
Validation of 31 of the most commonly used immunohistochemical antibodies in cytology prepared using the Cellient(®) automated cell block system.

PubMed

Montgomery, Eric; Gao, Chen; de Luca, Julie; Bower, Jessie; Attwood, Kristropher; Ylagan, Lourdes

2014-12-01

The Cellient(®) cell block system has become available as an alternative, partially automated method to create cell blocks in cytology. We sought to show a validation method for immunohistochemical (IHC) staining on the Cellient cell block system (CCB) in comparison with the formalin fixed paraffin embedded traditional cell block (TCB). Immunohistochemical staining was performed using 31 antibodies on 38 patient samples for a total of 326 slides. Split samples were processed using both methods by following the Cellient(®) manufacturer's recommendations for the Cellient cell block (CCB) and the Histogel method for preparing the traditional cell block (TCB). Interpretation was performed by three pathologists and two cytotechnologists. Immunohistochemical stains were scored as: 0/1+ (negative) and 2/3+ (positive). Inter-rater agreement for each antibody was evaluated for CCB and TCB, as well as the intra-rater agreement between TCB and CCB between observers. Interobserver staining concordance for the TCB was obtained with statistical significance (P < 0.05) in 24 of 31 antibodies. Interobserver staining concordance for the CCB was obtained with statistical significance in 27 of 31 antibodies. Intra-observer staining concordance between TCB and CCB was obtained with statistical significance in 24 of 31 antibodies tested. In conclusions, immunohistochemical stains on cytologic specimens processed by the Cellient system are reliable and concordant with stains performed on the same split samples processed via a formalin fixed-paraffin embedded (FFPE) block. The Cellient system is a welcome adjunct to cytology work-flow by producing cell block material of sufficient quality to allow the use of routine IHC. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Does immunohistochemical staining have a clinical impact in early gastric cancer conducted endoscopic submucosal dissection?

PubMed Central

Jeon, Seong Ran; Cho, Joo Young; Bok, Gene Hyun; Lee, Tae Hee; Kim, Hyun Gun; Cho, Won Young; Jin, So Young; Kim, Yeon Soo

2012-01-01

AIM: To evaluate clinicopathologic parameters and the clinical significance related lymphovascular invasion (LVI) by immunohistochemical staining (IHCS) in endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD). METHODS: Between May 2005 and May 2010, a total of 348 lesions from 321 patients (mean age 63 ± 10 years, men 74.6%) with early gastric cancer (EGC) who met indication criteria after ESD were analyzed retrospectively. The 348 lesions were divided into the absolute (n = 100, differentiated mucosal cancer without ulcer ≤ 20 mm) and expanded (n = 248) indication groups after ESD. The 248 lesions were divided into four subgroups according to the expanded ESD indication. The presence of LVI was determined by factor VIII-related antigen and D2-40 assessment. We compared LVI IHCS-negative group with LVI IHCS-positive in each group. RESULTS: LVI by hematoxylin-eosin staining (HES) and IHCS were all negative in the absolute group, while was observed in only the expanded groups. The positive rate of LVI by IHCS was higher than that of LVI by HES (n = 1, 0.4% vs n = 11, 4.4%, P = 0.044). LVI IHCS-positivity was observed when the cancer invaded to the mucosa 3 (M3) or submucosa 1 (SM1) levels, with a predominance of 63.6% in the subgroup that included only SM1 cancer (P < 0.01). In a univariate analysis, M3 or SM1 invasion by the tumor was significantly associated with a higher rate of LVI by IHCS, but no factor was significant in a multivariate analysis. There were no cases of tumor recurrence or metastasis during the median 26 mo follow-up. CONCLUSION: EGCs of the absolute group are immunohistochemically stable. The presence of LVI may be carefully examined by IHCS in an ESD expanded indication group with an invasion depth of M3 or greater. PMID:22969232
Immunohistochemical Markers of Neural Progenitor Cells in the Early Embryonic Human Cerebral Cortex

PubMed Central

Vinci, L.; Ravarino, A.; Fanos, V.; Naccarato, A.G.; Senes, G.; Gerosa, C.; Bevilacqua, G.; Faa, G.; Ambu, R.

2016-01-01

The development of the human central nervous system represents a delicate moment of embryogenesis. The purpose of this study was to analyze the expression of multiple immunohistochemical markers in the stem/progenitor cells in the human cerebral cortex during the early phases of development. To this end, samples from cerebral cortex were obtained from 4 human embryos of 11 weeks of gestation. Each sample was formalin-fixed, paraffin embedded and immunostained with several markers including GFAP, WT1, Nestin, Vimentin, CD117, S100B, Sox2, PAX2, PAX5, Tβ4, Neurofilament, CD44, CD133, Synaptophysin and Cyclin D1. Our study shows the ability of the different immunohistochemical markers to evidence different zones of the developing human cerebral cortex, allowing the identification of the multiple stages of differentiation of neuronal and glial precursors. Three important markers of radial glial cells are evidenced in this early gestational age: Vimentin, Nestin and WT1. Sox2 was expressed by the stem/progenitor cells of the ventricular zone, whereas the postmitotic neurons of the cortical plate were immunostained by PAX2 and NSE. Future studies are needed to test other important stem/progenitor cells markers and to better analyze differences in the immunohistochemical expression of these markers during gestation. PMID:26972711
Implementation of Good Clinical Laboratory Practice (GCLP) guidelines within the External Quality Assurance Program Oversight Laboratory (EQAPOL).

PubMed

Todd, Christopher A; Sanchez, Ana M; Garcia, Ambrosia; Denny, Thomas N; Sarzotti-Kelsoe, Marcella

2014-07-01

The EQAPOL contract was awarded to Duke University to develop and manage global proficiency testing programs for flow cytometry-, ELISpot-, and Luminex bead-based assays (cytokine analytes), as well as create a genetically diverse panel of HIV-1 viral cultures to be made available to National Institutes of Health (NIH) researchers. As a part of this contract, EQAPOL was required to operate under Good Clinical Laboratory Practices (GCLP) that are traditionally used for laboratories conducting endpoint assays for human clinical trials. EQAPOL adapted these guidelines to the management of proficiency testing programs while simultaneously incorporating aspects of ISO/IEC 17043 which are specifically designed for external proficiency management. Over the first two years of the contract, the EQAPOL Oversight Laboratories received training, developed standard operating procedures and quality management practices, implemented strict quality control procedures for equipment, reagents, and documentation, and received audits from the EQAPOL Central Quality Assurance Unit. GCLP programs, such as EQAPOL, strengthen a laboratory's ability to perform critical assays and provide quality assessments of future potential vaccines. © 2013.
Epitaxial growth of lithium fluoride on the (1 1 1) surface of CaF 2

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Klumpp, St; Dabringhaus, H.

1999-08-01

Growth of lithium fluoride by molecular beam epitaxy on the (1 1 1) surface of calcium fluoride crystals was studied by TEM and LEED for crystal temperatures from 400 to 773 K and impinging lithium fluoride fluxes from 3×10 11 to 3×10 14 cm -2 s -1. Growth starts, usually, at the <1 1 0> steps on the (1 1 1) surface of CaF 2. For larger step distances and at later growth stages also growth on the terraces between the steps is found. Preferably, longish, roof-like crystallites are formed, which can be interpreted by growth of LiF(2 0 1¯)[0 1 0] parallel to CaF 2(1 1 1)[ 1¯ 0 1]. To a lesser extent square crystallites, i.e. growth with LiF(0 0 1), and, rarely, three-folded pyramidal crystallites, i.e. growth with LiF(1 1 1) parallel to CaF 2(1 1 1), are observed. While the pyramidal crystallites show strict epitaxial orientation with LiF[ 1¯ 0 1]‖CaF 2[ 1¯ 0 1] and LiF[ 1¯ 0 1]‖CaF 2[1 2¯ 1], only about 80% of the square crystallites exhibit an epitaxial alignment, where LiF[1 0 0]‖CaF 2[ 1¯ 0 1] is preferred to LiF[1 1 0]‖CaF 2[ 1¯ 0 1]. The epitaxial relationships are discussed on the basis of theoretically calculated adsorption positions of the lithium fluoride monomer and dimer on the terrace and at the steps of the CaF 2(1 1 1) surface.
Simultaneous GCaMP6-based fiber photometry and fMRI in rats.

PubMed

Liang, Zhifeng; Ma, Yuncong; Watson, Glenn D R; Zhang, Nanyin

2017-09-01

Understanding the relationship between neural and vascular signals is essential for interpretation of functional MRI (fMRI) results with respect to underlying neuronal activity. Simultaneously measuring neural activity using electrophysiology with fMRI has been highly valuable in elucidating the neural basis of the blood oxygenation-level dependent (BOLD) signal. However, this approach is also technically challenging due to the electromagnetic interference that is observed in electrophysiological recordings during MRI scanning. Recording optical correlates of neural activity, such as calcium signals, avoids this issue, and has opened a new avenue to simultaneously acquire neural and BOLD signals. The present study is the first to demonstrate the feasibility of simultaneously and repeatedly acquiring calcium and BOLD signals in animals using a genetically encoded calcium indicator, GCaMP6. This approach was validated with a visual stimulation experiment, during which robust increases of both calcium and BOLD signals in the superior colliculus were observed. In addition, repeated measurement in the same animal demonstrated reproducible calcium and BOLD responses to the same stimuli. Taken together, simultaneous GCaMP6-based fiber photometry and fMRI recording presents a novel, artifact-free approach to simultaneously measuring neural and fMRI signals. Furthermore, given the cell-type specificity of GCaMP6, this approach has the potential to mechanistically dissect the contributions of individual neuron populations to BOLD signal, and ultimately reveal its underlying neural mechanisms. The current study established the method for simultaneous GCaMP6-based fiber photometry and fMRI in rats. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

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