High time resolution observations of the drivers of Forbush decreases

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jordan, A. P.; Spence, H. E.; Blake, J. B.; Mulligan, T. L.; Shaul, D. N.

2008-12-01

The drivers of Forbush decreases in galactic cosmic ray (GCR) fluxes are thought to be magnetic turbulence in the sheath of an interplanetary coronal mass ejection (ICME) and the closed magnetic field lines in the ICME itself. This model, however, is the result of studies utilizing hourly or longer time averaging. Such averaging can smooth over important correlations between variabilities in the GCR flux and those in the interplanetary medium. To test the validity of the current model of Forbush decreases, we analyze a number of Forbush decreases using high time resolution GCR data from the High Sensitivity Telescope (HIST) on Polar and the Spectrometer for INTEGRAL (SPI). We seek causal correlations between the onset of the decrease and structures in the solar wind plasma and interplanetary magnetic field, as measured concurrently with ACE and/or Wind. We find evidence that planar magnetic structures in the sheath preceding the ICME may be a factor in driving the decrease in at least one event.

Evidence of Energy and Charge Sign Dependence of the Recovery Time for the 2006 December Forbush Event Measured by the PAMELA Experiment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Munini, R.; Boezio, M.; Bruno, A.; Christian, E. C.; de Nolfo, G. A.; Di Felice, V.; Martucci, M.; Merge’, M.; Richardson, I. G.; Ryan, J. M.; Stochaj, S.; Adriani, O.; Barbarino, G. C.; Bazilevskaya, G. A.; Bellotti, R.; Bongi, M.; Bonvicini, V.; Bottai, S.; Cafagna, F.; Campana, D.; Carlson, P.; Casolino, M.; Castellini, G.; De Santis, C.; Galper, A. M.; Karelin, A. V.; Koldashov, S. V.; Koldobskiy, S.; Krutkov, S. Y.; Kvashnin, A. N.; Leonov, A.; Malakhov, V.; Marcelli, L.; Mayorov, A. G.; Menn, W.; Mikhailov, V. V.; Mocchiutti, E.; Monaco, A.; Mori, N.; Osteria, G.; Panico, B.; Papini, P.; Pearce, M.; Picozza, P.; Ricci, M.; Ricciarini, S. B.; Simon, M.; Sparvoli, R.; Spillantini, P.; Stozhkov, Y. I.; Vacchi, A.; Vannuccini, E.; Vasilyev, G.; Voronov, S. A.; Yurkin, Y. T.; Zampa, G.; Zampa, N.; Potgieter, M. S.

2018-01-01

New results on the short-term galactic cosmic-ray (GCR) intensity variation (Forbish decrease) in 2006 December measured by the PAMELA instrument are presented. Forbush decreases are sudden suppressions of the GCR intensities, which are associated with the passage of interplanetary transients such as shocks and interplanetary coronal mass ejections (ICMEs). Most of the past measurements of this phenomenon were carried out with ground-based detectors such as neutron monitors or muon telescopes. These techniques allow only the indirect detection of the overall GCR intensity over an integrated energy range. For the first time, thanks to the unique features of the PAMELA magnetic spectrometer, the Forbush decrease, commencing on 2006 December 14 and following a CME at the Sun on 2006 December 13, was studied in a wide rigidity range (0.4–20 GV) and for different species of GCRs detected directly in space. The daily averaged GCR proton intensity was used to investigate the rigidity dependence of the amplitude and the recovery time of the Forbush decrease. Additionally, for the first time, the temporal variations in the helium and electron intensities during a Forbush decrease were studied. Interestingly, the temporal evolutions of the helium and proton intensities during the Forbush decrease were found to be in good agreement, while the low rigidity electrons (< 2 GV) displayed a faster recovery. This difference in the electron recovery is interpreted as a charge sign dependence introduced by drift motions experienced by the GCRs during their propagation through the heliosphere.

Variations in the GCR Flux Associated with Heliospheric Transient Structures Near the August 20, 2006 Forbush Decrease

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mulligan, T.; Blake, J.; Spence, H. E.; Jordan, A. P.; Shaul, D.; Quenby, J.

2007-12-01

On August 20, 2006 a Forbush decrease observed at Polar in the Earth's magnetosphere was also seen at the INTEGRAL spacecraft outside the magnetosphere during a very active time in the solar wind. Data from Polar HIST and from INTEGRAL's Ge detector saturation rate (GEDSAT), which measures the GCR background with a threshold of ~200 MeV, show similar, short-period GCR variations in and around the Forbush decrease. The solar wind magnetic field and plasma conditions during this time reveals three interplanetary shocks present in the days leading up to and including the Forbush decrease. The first two shocks are driven by interplanetary coronal mass ejections (ICMEs) and the last one by a high-speed stream. However, the solar wind following these shocks and during the Forbush decrease is not particularly geoeffective. The Forbush decrease, which begins at ~1200 UT on August 20, 2006 is the largest intensity change during this active time, but there are many others on a variety of timescales. Looking at more than 14 consecutive hours of INTEGRAL and Polar data on August 21, 2006 shows great similarities in the time history of the measurements made aboard the two satellites coupled with differences that must be due to GCR variability on a scale size of the order or less than their separation distance. Despite the spacecraft separation of over 25 Re, many of the larger intensity fluctuations remain identical at both satellites. Autocorrelation and power spectral analyses have shown these are not ar-n processes and that these fluctuations are statistically significant. Such analyses can be done with high confidence because both detectors aboard Polar and INTEGRAL have large geometric factors that generate high count rates on the order of 1000 particles per spin, ensuring rigorous, statistically significant samples.

Solar and interplanetary activities of isolated and non-isolated coronal mass ejections

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bendict Lawrance, M.; Shanmugaraju, A.; Moon, Y.-J.; Umapathy, S.

2017-07-01

We report our results on comparison of two halo Coronal Mass Ejections (CME) associated with X-class flares of similar strength (X1.4) but quite different in CME speed and acceleration, similar geo-effectiveness but quite different in Solar Energetic Particle (SEP) intensity. CME1 (non-isolated) was associated with a double event in X-ray flare and it was preceded by another fast halo CME of speed = 2684 km/s (pre-CME) associated with X-ray flare class X5.4 by 1 h from the same location. Since this pre-CME was more eastern, interaction with CME1 and hitting the earth were not possible. This event (CME1) has not suffered the cannibalism since pre-CME has faster speed than post-CME. Pre-CME plays a very important role in increasing the intensity of SEP and Forbush Decrease (FD) by providing energetic seed particles. So, the seed population is the major difference between these two selected events. CME2 (isolated) was a single event. We would like to address on the kinds of physical conditions related to such CMEs and their associated activities. Their associated activities such as, type II bursts, SEP, geomagnetic storm and FD are compared. The following results are obtained from the analysis. (1) The CME leading edge height at the start of metric/DH type II bursts are 2 R⊙/ 4 R⊙ for CME1, but 2 R⊙/ 2.75 R⊙ for CME2. (2) Peak intensity of SEP event associated with the two CMEs are quite different: 6530 pfu for CME1, but 96 pfu for CME2. (3) The Forbush decrease occurred with a minimum decrease of 9.98% in magnitude for CME1, but 6.90% for CME2. (4) These two events produced similar intense geomagnetic storms of intensity of Dst index -130 nT. (5) The maximum southward magnetic fields corresponding to Interplanetary CME (ICME) of these two events are nearly the same, but there is difference in Sheath Bz maximum (-14.2, -6.9 nT). (6) The time-line chart of the associated activities of two CMEs show some difference in the time delay between the onsets of activities with respect to the onset of flare/CME.

A low free-parameter stochastic model of daily Forbush decrease indices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Patra, Sankar Narayan; Bhattacharya, Gautam; Panja, Subhash Chandra; Ghosh, Koushik

2014-01-01

Forbush decrease is a rapid decrease in the observed galactic cosmic ray intensity pattern occurring after a coronal mass ejection. In the present paper we have analyzed the daily Forbush decrease indices from January, 1967 to December, 2003 generated in IZMIRAN, Russia. First the entire indices have been smoothened and next we have made an attempt to fit a suitable stochastic model for the present time series by means of a necessary number of process parameters. The study reveals that the present time series is governed by a stationary autoregressive process of order 2 with a trace of white noise. Under the consideration of the present model we have shown that chaos is not expected in the present time series which opens up the possibility of validation of its forecasting (both short-term and long-term) as well as its multi-periodic behavior.

The intensity recovery of Forbush-type decreases as a function of heliocentric distance and its relationship to the 11-year variation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lockwood, J. A.; Webber, W. R.; Jokipii, J. R.

1985-08-01

Recent data indicating that the solar modulation effects are propagated outward in the heliospheric cavity suggest that the 11-year cosmic ray modulation can best be described by a dynamic time dependent model. In this context an understanding of the recovery characteristics of large transient Forbush type decreases is important. This includes the typical recovery time at a fixed energy at 1 AU as well as at large heliocentric radial distances, the energy dependence of the recovery time at 1 Au, and the dependence of the time for the intensity to decrease to the minimum in the transient decreases as a function of distance. These transient decreases are characterized by their asymmetrical decrease and recovery times, generally 1 to 2 days and 3 to 10 days respectively at approx. 1 AU. Near earth these are referred to as Forbush decreases, associated witha shock or blast wave passage. At R equal to or greater than + or - 10 AU, these transient decreases may represent the combined effects of several shock waves that have merged together.

Solar-flare-induced Forbush decreases - Dependence on shock wave geometry

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Thomas, B. T.; Gall, R.

1984-01-01

It is argued that the principal mechanism for the association of Forbush decreases with the passage of a solar flare shock wave is prolonged containment of cosmic ray particles behind the flare compression region, which acts as a semipermeable obstacle to particle motion along the field lines, leading to additional adiabatic cooling of the particles. Liouville's theorem is used to calculate the instantaneous distribution function at 1 AU for each particle arriving at the earth. By averaging over a large number of individual estimates, a representative estimate of the omnidirectional phase space density and the corresponding particle intensity is obtained. The energy change of individual particles at the shocks is found to be small in comparison to the energy lost by adiabatic cooling of the cosmic rays between the shock wave and the sun. The effects of particle rigidity, diffusion coefficient, and flare longitude on the magnitude of the Forbush decrease are quantitatively investigated.

Modeling and Experimental Study of Forbush Effects of Galactic Cosmic Rays

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alania, Michael V.; Szabelski, J.; Wawrzynczak, A.

2003-07-01

temporal changes of the rigidity spectrum of the sporadic and recurrent Forbush effects of galactic cosmic rays (GCR) have been studied using neutron monitors data. An attempt to find a relationship between the rigidity spectrum exponent γ of the Forbush effects (δD/D(R) ∝ R-γ , where R is the rigidity of GCR particles) and an exponent ν of the power spectral density (PSD) of the fluctuations of the strength of the interplanetary magnetic field (IMF) (PSD ∝ f-ν , where f is the frequency) has been made. EXPERIMENTAL DATA AND METHOD OF INVESTIGATION. An attempt to find a relationship between the rigidity spectrum exponent γ of the Forbush effects [1] (δ D/D(R) ∝ R-γ , where R is the rigidity of GCR particles) and an exponent ν of the PSD of the fluctuations of the strength of the IMF has been made. Data of neutron super monitors and the IMF's Bx , By , and Bz components have been used to study peculiarities of two great sporadic Forbush effects (9-23 July 1982 and 9-29 July 2000) and one recurrent Forbush effect of the 1-16 September 1996 (figures 1ab c). It is well known that one of the ma jor parameters for the characterizing of the Forbush effects of GCR is the rigidity spectrum of the GCR intensity variations, hereafter called the rigidity spectrum of Forbush effect (δ D(R)/D(R ) = A R-γ , where R is the rigidity of GCR particles and A is the power). The rigidity spectrum of the Forbush effects has been calculated using the data of neutron super monitors and the method presented, e.g. in [2,3]. There was assumed: δ D(R)/D(R) = A R-γ for R≤Rmax . And δ D(R)/D(R) = 0 for R>Rmax. Here Rmax is the upper limiting rigidity beyond which the Forbush effect of GCR intensity vanishes. Results of calculations of γ based on daily means of data for the sporadic Forbush effects, 9-23 July 1982 (14 stations), 9-29 July 2000 (11 stations) and for the recurrent Forbush effect of 1-16 September 1996 (7 stations) are presented in the figures 1def. RESULTS, PHYSICAL MODEL AND DISCUSSION. It is seen from the fig.1de that the rigidity spectrum of the sporadic Forbush effects are soft at the phases of the decreasing of GCR intensity, while that

Solar-geophysical activity reports for STIP (study of travelling interplanetary phenomena) Interval 15, 12-21 February 1984 ground-level event and STIP Interval 16, 20 April-4 May 1984 Forbush decrease

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

Coffey, H.E.; Allen, J.H.

1987-07-01

Contents include: solar-geophysical activity reports for STIP Interval XV 12-21 February 1984 ground-level event and STIP interval XVI 20 April-4 May 1984 Forbush decrease; overview of solar-terrestrial physics phenomena for STIP interval XV (12-21 February 1984) and STIP interval XVI (20 April-4 May 1984) (solar optical reports, solar radio events, spacecraft observations, cosmic ray observations, ionosphere, geomagnetism).

Global Lightning Response to Forbush Decreases in Short-term

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, H.; Wu, Q.; Wang, C.

2017-12-01

During the past three decades, particular scientific attention has been drawn to the potential link between solar activities and global climate change. How the sun modulates the climate has always been controversial. There are three relatively widely accepted mechanisms illustrating this process: the total solar irradiance (TSI), the solar ultraviolet radiation (SUR), and the space weather mechanisms. As for space weather mechanism, the sun influences the microphysical process in cloud by modulating the cosmic ray flux and thus changes the cloud cover, which finally affects the earth's radiation balance. Unfortunately, the lack of related observations and some opposite research results make this mechanism rather debatable. In order to provide possible evidence for space weather mechanism, we study the influence of Forbush decreases (FDs) of galactic cosmic ray on global lightning activities, which to some extent represents the basic process of cosmic ray-atmospheric coupling. We use the daily lightning counts from 1998 to 2014 observed by LIS sensor aboard the TRMM satellite. Considering the "diurnal distribution" (occurring more in the afternoon than in the morning) and the "seasonal distribution" (occurring more in summer than in winter) of lightning activities as well as the 49-day precession of TRMM satellite, the daily lightning counts show an intricate periodic fluctuation. We propose a 3-step approach - latitude zone limitation, orbit branch selection and local time normalization - to eliminate it. As for FDs, we select them by checking the hourly neutron counts variation of each month of 17 years obtained from the Oulu Cosmic Ray Station. During the selection, we choose the FDs which are "strong" (decrease more than 6%) and "standard" (strongly decrease in a few hours to one day and gradually recover in about one week) to diminish the meteorological influence and other possible disturbance. For both case study and temporal superposition of several cases, the results illustrate that there is a statistically significant positive correlation between FD and daily lightning count, and the latter reaches its minimum 2-3 days after the former onset. In addition, this response enhances if we only choose the stronger and the more standard FDs. This work has reached the 95% confidence level of Monte Carlo test.

Time variation analysis of the daily Forbush decrease indices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Patra, Sankar Narayan; Ghosh, Koushik; Panja, Subhash Chandra

2011-08-01

In the present paper we have analyzed the daily Forbush decrease indices from January 1, 1967 to December 31, 2003. First filtering the time series by Simple Exponential Smoothing, we have applied Scargle Method of Periodogram on the processed time series in order to search for its time variation. Study exhibits periodicities around 174, 245, 261, 321, 452, 510, 571, 584, 662, 703, 735, 741, 767, 774, 820, 970, 1062, 1082, 1489, 1715, 2317, 2577, 2768, 3241 and 10630 days with confidence levels higher than 90%. Some of these periods are significantly similar to the observed periodicities of other solar activities, like solar filament activity, solar electron flare occurrence, solar-flare rate, solar proton events, solar neutrino flux, solar irradiance, cosmic ray intensity and flare, spectrum of the sunspot, solar wind, southern coronal hole area and solar cycle, which may suggest that the Forbush decrease behaves similarly to these solar activities and these activities may have a common origin.

Analysis of the Complex Forbush Decreases of June 2015

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lara, A.; Santiago, A.

2016-12-01

We investigated the sudden increase of the counting rates observed by muon telescopes during the main phase of the June 20, 2015 Forbush decrease. We analyzed the probability that this peak was caused by a shock reacceleration of solar energetic particles accelerated by the solar flare occurred on June 22, 2015. To study this event, we used ground level cosmic ray detectors, GOES proton intensities, observations of the geomagnetic activity index (Dst) and interplanetary magnetic field data observed by ACE and WIND spacecraft available from the OMNI database.

Some properties of flare-not-associated Forbush decreases

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Iucci, N.; Parisi, M.; Signorini, C.; Storini, M.; Villoresi, G.

1984-07-01

All non flare-associated Forbush decreases (N Ass Fds) over the period 1957 to 1979 are investigated. The connection between N Ass Fds occurrence and the central meridian passage of strong active regions producing great flare associated Fds shows the flare origin of the N Ass Fds. The interplanetary perturbations at the eastern and western boundaries of the modulated region are found to be long living corotating structures. These structures mark the boundaries of the region in which the (1 to 4 Mev) protons accelerated by interplanetary flare generated shocks are confined.

Causes of forbush decreases and other cosmic ray variations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Barouch, E.; Burlaga, L. F.

1974-01-01

The relationship between neutron monitor variations and the intensity variations of the interplanetary magnetic field is studied, using Deep River data and IMP-series satellite data. In over 80% of the cases studied, identifiable depressions of the cosmic ray intensity are associated with magnetic field enhancements of several hours duration and intensity above 10 gamma. Conversely, each magnetic field enhancement has an identifiable effect (though not necessarily a marked depression) on the cosmic ray intensity. Long lasting Forbush decreases are found to be the consequence of the successive action of several such features. An explanation is presented and discussed.

Study of large Forbush decreases in cosmic-ray intensity observed during solar cycle 23 and 24

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kumar, Anand; Badruddin, B.

2016-07-01

Neutron monitors at different geomagnetic latitude and longitude of Earth measure the cosmic-ray intensity with high precision. Sudden decreases in cosmic-ray intensity within few hours and slow recovery to pre-decrease level within a few days (Forbush decreases) are observed in neutron monitor data. We identify large-amplitude Forbush decreases (FDs), using high counting rate neutron monitor data, that occurred during previous solar cycle 23 (1995-2009) and current solar cycle 24 (2010-2015). We then search for the solar sources and the interplanetary structures responsible for these decreases. We attempt to find the relative importance of various interplanetary plasma and field parameters and the physical mechanism(s) responsible for FDs of varying amplitudes. We analyze a number of interplanetary plasma and field parameters, during both the phases (main and recovery) of FDs. The interplanetary plasma and field data analyzed in this study are the solar-wind velocity, the interplanetary magnetic field, its fluctuations, interplanetary electric field and the time variation of interplanetary electric potential. For monitoring the changes in interplanetary plasma/field conditions during the development of FDs, we also utilize plasma density, temperature and plasma beta, dynamic pressure and Mach number during the passage of interplanetary structures responsible for FDs. In addition to their amplitude, we study the recovery of FDs in detail after determining the time constant during their recovery by exponential fit to the data. As the solar magnetic polarity reversed during the maximum phase of solar cycle 23 (in the year 2000), we study the differences in amplitude, time constant of recovery and plasma/field condition to search for the polarity dependent effects, if any, on the amplitude and recovery of FDs due to implication for the models suggested to explain the Forbush decrease phenomena. The implications of these results are discussed.

Local and nonlocal geometry of interplanetary coronal mass ejections: Galactic cosmic ray (GCR) short-period variations and magnetic field modeling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Quenby, J. J.; Mulligan, T.; Blake, J. B.; Mazur, J. E.; Shaul, D.

2008-10-01

Energetic galactic cosmic ray (GCR) particles, arriving within the solar system, are modulated by the overall interplanetary field carried in the solar wind. Localized disturbances related to solar activity cause further reduction in intensity, the largest being Forbush decreases in which fluxes can fall ˜20% over a few days. Understanding Forbush decreases leads to a better understanding of the magnetic field structure related to shock waves and fast streams originating at the Sun since the propagation characteristics of the GCR probe much larger regions of space than do individual spacecraft instruments. We examined the temporal history of the integral GCR fluence (≥100 MeV) measured by the high-sensitivity telescope (HIST) aboard the Polar spacecraft, along with the solar wind magnetic field and plasma data from the ACE spacecraft during a 40-day period encompassing the 25 September 1998 Forbush decrease. We also examined the Forbush and (energetic storm particles) ESP event on 28 October 2003. It is the use of HIST in a high-counting-rate integral mode that allows previously poorly seen, short-scale depressions in the GCR fluxes to be observed, adding crucial information on the origin of GCR modulation. Variability on time scales within the frequency range 0.001-1.0 mHz is detected. This paper concentrates on investigating four simple models for explaining short-term reductions in the GCR intensity of both small and large amplitude. Specifically, these models are a local increase in magnetic scattering power, the passage of a shock discontinuity, and the passage of a tangential discontinuity or magnetic rope in the solar wind plasma. Analysis of the short-scale GCR depressions during a test period in September through October 1998 shows that they are not correlated with changes in magnetic scattering power or fluctuations in solar wind speed or plasma density. However, magnetic field and plasma data during the test period of Forbush decrease strongly suggest the presence of an interplanetary coronal mass ejection (ICME). Use of a non-force-free magnetic rope model in conjunction with the energetic particle data allows modeling of the geometry of the ICME in terms of a magnetic cloud topology. It is only this cloud configuration that allows a satisfactory explanation of the magnitude of the Forbush event of 25 September 1998. Calculations made during the test period point to short-scale GCR depressions being caused by either small-scale magnetic flux rope structures or possibly tangential discontinuities in the solar wind.

Unusual Cosmic Ray Variations During the Forbush Decreases of June 2015

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Samara, E.; Smponias, A.; Lytrosyngounis, I.; Lingri, D.; Mavromichalaki, H.; Sgouropoulos, C.

2018-04-01

Although the current Solar Cycle 24 is characterized by low solar activity, an intense geomagnetic storm (G4) was recorded in June 2015. It was a complex phenomenon that began on 22 June 2015 as the result of intense solar activity, accompanied by several flares and coronal mass ejections that interacted with the Earth's magnetic field. A Forbush decrease was also recorded at the neutron monitors of the worldwide network, with an amplitude of 8.4%, and in its recovery phase, a second Forbush decrease followed, with an amplitude of 4.0% for cosmic rays of 10 GV obtained with the global survey method. The Dst index reached a minimum value of -204 nT that was detected on 23 June 2015 at 05:00 - 06:00 UT, while the Kp index reached the value eight. For our analysis, we used hourly cosmic-ray intensity data recorded by polar, mid-, and high-latitude neutron monitor stations obtained from the High Resolution Neutron Monitor Database. The cosmic-ray anisotropy variation at the ecliptic plane was also estimated and was found to be highly complex. We study and discuss the unusual and complex cosmic-ray and geomagnetic response to these solar events.

Study of the long time-scale variability of cosmic rays with the ARGO-YBJ experiment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cappa, Alba; James, Irina; Salvini, Paola

The long term modulation of the cosmic ray intensity includes both Sun and celestial anisotropies. The solar activity is due to high energy flares producing a decrease (known as Forbush Decrease, FD) in the cosmic ray intensity, with a time scale of the order of a few days, often accompained by a Ground Level Enhancement, due to direct Sun emission during the solar flare. The celestial anisotropies are due to the Earth motion in the cosmic rays reference system (solar anisotropy: Compton-Getting effect) and to the solar system location inside the Galaxy (sidereal anisotropies). These anisotropies are studied in ground-base experiments by means of EAS arrays, and the high energy solar emission is mainly studied from ground by neutron monitors. In the ARGO-YBJ experiment these phenomena are investigated by means of the "scaler mode" technique: the detector counting rates of four low multiplicity channels from singles to four-fold coincidences are recorded in a fixed time window of 0.5 s. The signal corresponds to a significant enhancement of the observed counting rate, after correcting the data for enviromental and instrumental parameters. In this paper we present the sensitivity of the ARGO-YBJ detector and the first results for both solar physics and cosmic ray anisotropy studies.

Amplitudes of solar modulation of low energy cosmic rays

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Von Rosenvinge, T. T.; Paizis, C.

1982-01-01

There have been differences of opinion regarding the origin and behavior of the solar modulation of galactic cosmic rays. It has been shown that the return to solar maximum intensity levels beginning in early 1978 was dominated by Forbush decreases. These Forbush decreases were caused by radially moving interplanetary shocks resulting from large solar flares. The present investigation is concerned with solar modulation effects which were observed during the previous solar minimum. The effects were associated with high-speed streams in the solar wind. These streams caused the formation of corotating interaction regions with both forward and reverse shocks. The modulation effects seen near earth are intimately connected with these shocks.

Main Properties of Forbush Effects Related to High-Speed Streams from Coronal Holes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Melkumyan, A. A.; Belov, A. V.; Abunina, M. A.; Abunin, A. A.; Eroshenko, E. A.; Oleneva, V. A.; Yanke, V. G.

2018-03-01

The IZMIRAN database of Forbush effects and interplanetary disturbances was used to study features of the action of high-speed solar wind streams from coronal holes on cosmic rays. Three hundred and fifty Forbush effects created by coronal holes without other actions were distinguished. The mean values and distributions have been found for different characteristics of events from this group and compared with all Forbush effects and Forbush effects caused by coronal ejections. Despite the great differences in high-speed streams from coronal holes, this group turned out to be more compact and uniform as compared to events related to coronal ejections. Regression dependences and correlation relations between different parameters of events for the studied groups have been obtained. It has been shown that Forbush effects caused by coronal ejections depend considerably more strongly on the characteristics of interplanetary disturbances as compared to Forbush effects related to coronal holes. This suggests a significant difference between the modulation mechanisms of Forbush effects of different types and corroborates earlier conclusions based on indirect data.

Solar Modulation of Atmospheric Cosmic Radiation:. Comparison Between In-Flight and Ground-Level Measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Iles, R. H. A.; Taylor, G. C.; Jones, J. B. L.

January 2000 saw the start of a collaborative study involving the Mullard Space Science Laboratory, Virgin Atlantic Airways, the Civil Aviation Authority and the National Physical Laboratory in a program to investigate the cosmic radiation exposure to aircrew. The study has been undertaken in view of EU Directive 96/291 (May 2000) which requires the assessment of the level of radiation exposure to aircrew. The project's aims include validation of radiation dose models and evaluation of space weather effects on atmospheric cosmic radiation levels, in particular those effects not accounted for by the models. Ground level measurements are often used as a proxy for variations in cosmic radiation dose levels at aircraft altitudes, especially during Forbush Decreases (FDs) and Solar Energetic Particle (SEP) events. Is this estimation realistic and does the ground level data accurately represent what is happening at altitude? We have investigated the effect of a FD during a flight from Hong Kong to London Heathrow on the 15th July 2000 and compared count rate and dose measurements with simultaneous variations measured at ground level. We have also compared the results with model outputs.

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

Bahena, A.; Villasenor, L.

We describe a simple experimental setup to measure the rate of arrival of muons at the surface of the Earth by using a single water Cerenkov detector and home-made electronics. We find a strong anti-correlation between the muon rates averaged over one-hour periods and the atmospheric pressure, with a measured correlation coefficient of -0.67% per hPa. After applying this correction we achieve sufficient sensitivity to observe long term (hours) variations in the averaged muon rates which are greater than 2%. Forbush decreases as big as 4% have been observed with muon detectors located at similar magnetic rigidities compared to Morelia,more » therefore our experimental setup will detect Forbush decreases as soon as the Sun enters into a more active phase.« less

Energetic ion and cosmic ray characteristics of a magnetic cloud

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sanderson, T. R.; Beeck, J.; Marsden, R. G.; Tranquille, C.; Wenzel, K.-P.; McKibben, R. B.; Smith, E. J.

The large interplanetary shock event of February 11, 1982, has yielded ISEE-3 energetic ion and magnetic field data as well as ground-based neutron-monitor cosmic-ray data. The timing and the onset of the Forbush decrease associated with this shock event coincide with the arrival at the earth of its magnetic cloud component; the duration of the decrease, similarly, corresponds to that of the cloud's passage past the earth. The large scattering mean free path readings suggest that while magnetic cloud ions can easily travel along magnetic field lines, they cannot travel across them, so that they cannot escape the cloud after entering it. Similarly, the cloud field lines prevented cosmic ray entrance, and could have prevented their reaching the earth. The cloud is therefore a major basis for the Forbush decrease.

Analysis of Forbush decreases during strong geomagnetic disturbances in March-April 2001

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kravtsova, M. V.; Sdobnov, V. E.

2014-08-01

Using ground-based cosmic-ray (CR) observations on the worldwide network of neutron monitors, we have studied the variations in CR rigidity spectrum, anisotropy, and planetary system of geomagnetic cutoff rigidities during Forbush decreases in March-April 2001 by the global spectrographic method. By jointly analyzing ground-based and satellite measurements, we have determined the parameters of the CR rigidity spectrum that reflect the electromagnetic characteristics of the heliospheric fields in each hour of observations within the framework of the model of CR modulation by the heliosphere's regular electromagnetic fields. The rigidity spectra of the variations and the relative changes in the intensity of CRs with rigidities of 4 and 10 GV in the solar-ecliptic geocentric coordinate system are presented in specific periods of the investigated events.

Characteristics and Energy Dependence of Recurrent Galactic Cosmic-Ray Flux Depressions and of a Forbush Decrease with LISA Pathfinder

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Armano, M.; Audley, H.; Baird, J.; Bassan, M.; Benella, S.; Binetruy, P.; Born, M.; Bortoluzzi, D.; Cavalleri, A.; Cesarini, A.; Cruise, A. M.; Danzmann, K.; de Deus Silva, M.; Diepholz, I.; Dixon, G.; Dolesi, R.; Fabi, M.; Ferraioli, L.; Ferroni, V.; Finetti, N.; Fitzsimons, E. D.; Freschi, M.; Gesa, L.; Gibert, F.; Giardini, D.; Giusteri, R.; Grimani, C.; Grzymisch, J.; Harrison, I.; Heinzel, G.; Hewitson, M.; Hollington, D.; Hoyland, D.; Hueller, M.; Inchauspé, H.; Jennrich, O.; Jetzer, P.; Karnesis, N.; Kaune, B.; Korsakova, N.; Killow, C. J.; Laurenza, M.; Lobo, J. A.; Lloro, I.; Liu, L.; López-Zaragoza, J. P.; Maarschalkerweerd, R.; Mance, D.; Martín, V.; Martin-Polo, L.; Martino, J.; Martin-Porqueras, F.; Mateos, I.; McNamara, P. W.; Mendes, J.; Mendes, L.; Nofrarias, M.; Paczkowski, S.; Perreur-Lloyd, M.; Petiteau, A.; Pivato, P.; Plagnol, E.; Ramos-Castro, J.; Reiche, J.; Robertson, D. I.; Rivas, F.; Russano, G.; Sabbatini, F.; Slutsky, J.; Sopuerta, C. F.; Sumner, T.; Telloni, D.; Texier, D.; Thorpe, J. I.; Vetrugno, D.; Vitale, S.; Wanner, G.; Ward, H.; Wass, P.; Weber, W. J.; Wissel, L.; Wittchen, A.; Zambotti, A.; Zenoni, C.; Zweifel, P.

2018-02-01

Galactic cosmic-ray (GCR) energy spectra observed in the inner heliosphere are modulated by the solar activity, the solar polarity and structures of solar and interplanetary origin. A high counting rate particle detector (PD) aboard LISA Pathfinder, meant for subsystems diagnostics, was devoted to the measurement of GCR and solar energetic particle integral fluxes above 70 MeV n‑1 up to 6500 counts s‑1. PD data were gathered with a sampling time of 15 s. Characteristics and energy dependence of GCR flux recurrent depressions and of a Forbush decrease dated 2016 August 2 are reported here. The capability of interplanetary missions, carrying PDs for instrument performance purposes, in monitoring the passage of interplanetary coronal mass ejections is also discussed.

Using Forbush Decreases to Derive the Transit Time of ICMEs Propagating from 1 AU to Mars

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Freiherr von Forstner, Johan L.; Guo, Jingnan; Wimmer-Schweingruber, Robert F.; Hassler, Donald M.; Temmer, Manuela; Dumbović, Mateja; Jian, Lan K.; Appel, Jan K.; Čalogović, Jaša.; Ehresmann, Bent; Heber, Bernd; Lohf, Henning; Posner, Arik; Steigies, Christian T.; Vršnak, Bojan; Zeitlin, Cary J.

2018-01-01

The propagation of 15 interplanetary coronal mass ejections (ICMEs) from Earth's orbit (1 AU) to Mars (˜1.5 AU) has been studied with their propagation speed estimated from both measurements and simulations. The enhancement of magnetic fields related to ICMEs and their shock fronts causes the so-called Forbush decrease, which can be detected as a reduction of galactic cosmic rays measured on ground. We have used galactic cosmic ray (GCR) data from in situ measurements at Earth, from both STEREO A and STEREO B as well as GCR measurements by the Radiation Assessment Detector (RAD) instrument on board Mars Science Laboratory on the surface of Mars. A set of ICME events has been selected during the periods when Earth (or STEREO A or STEREO B) and Mars locations were nearly aligned on the same side of the Sun in the ecliptic plane (so-called opposition phase). Such lineups allow us to estimate the ICMEs' transit times between 1 and 1.5 AU by estimating the delay time of the corresponding Forbush decreases measured at each location. We investigate the evolution of their propagation speeds before and after passing Earth's orbit and find that the deceleration of ICMEs due to their interaction with the ambient solar wind may continue beyond 1 AU. We also find a substantial variance of the speed evolution among different events revealing the dynamic and diverse nature of eruptive solar events. Furthermore, the results are compared to simulation data obtained from two CME propagation models, namely the Drag-Based Model and ENLIL plus cone model.

The 2015 Summer Solstice Storm: One of the Major Geomagnetic Storms of Solar Cycle 24 Observed at Ground Level

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Augusto, C. R. A.; Navia, C. E.; de Oliveira, M. N.; Nepomuceno, A. A.; Raulin, J. P.; Tueros, E.; de Mendonça, R. R. S.; Fauth, A. C.; Vieira de Souza, H.; Kopenkin, V.; Sinzi, T.

2018-05-01

We report on the 22 - 23 June 2015 geomagnetic storm that occurred at the summer solstice. There have been fewer intense geomagnetic storms during the current solar cycle, Solar Cycle 24, than in the previous cycle. This situation changed after mid-June 2015, when one of the largest solar active regions (AR 12371) of Solar Cycle 24 that was located close to the central meridian, produced several coronal mass ejections (CMEs) associated with M-class flares. The impact of these CMEs on the Earth's magnetosphere resulted in a moderate to severe G4-class geomagnetic storm on 22 - 23 June 2015 and a G2 (moderate) geomagnetic storm on 24 June. The G4 solstice storm was the second largest (so far) geomagnetic storm of Cycle 24. We highlight the ground-level observations made with the New-Tupi, Muonca, and the CARPET El Leoncito cosmic-ray detectors that are located within the South Atlantic Anomaly (SAA) region. These observations are studied in correlation with data obtained by space-borne detectors (ACE, GOES, SDO, and SOHO) and other ground-based experiments. The CME designations are taken from the Computer Aided CME Tracking (CACTus) automated catalog. As expected, Forbush decreases (FD) associated with the passing CMEs were recorded by these detectors. We note a peculiar feature linked to a severe geomagnetic storm event. The 21 June 2015 CME 0091 (CACTus CME catalog number) was likely associated with the 22 June summer solstice FD event. The angular width of CME 0091 was very narrow and measured {˜} 56° degrees seen from Earth. In most cases, only CME halos and partial halos lead to severe geomagnetic storms. We perform a cross-check analysis of the FD events detected during the rise phase of Solar Cycle 24, the geomagnetic parameters, and the CACTus CME catalog. Our study suggests that narrow angular-width CMEs that erupt in a westward direction from the Sun-Earth line can lead to moderate and severe geomagnetic storms. We also report on the strong solar proton radiation storm that began on 21 June. We did not find a signal from this SEP at ground level. The details of these observations are presented.

Cosmic ray modulation by high-speed solar wind fluxes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dorman, L. I.; Kaminer, N. S.; Kuzmicheva, A. E.; Mymrina, N. V.

1985-01-01

Cosmic ray intensity variations connected with recurrent high-speed fluxes (HSF) of solar wind are investigated. The increase of intensity before the Earth gets into a HSF, north-south anisotropy and diurnal variation of cosmic rays inside a HSF as well as the characteristics of Forbush decreases are considered.

Opening a Window on ICME Evolution and GCR Modulation During Propagation in the Innermost Heliosphere

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Winslow, R. M.; Lugaz, N.; Schwadron, N.; Farrugia, C. J.; Guo, J.; Wimmer-Schweingruber, R. F.; Wilson, J. K.; Joyce, C.; Jordan, A.; Lawrence, D. J.

2017-12-01

We use multipoint spacecraft observations to study interplanetary coronal mass ejection (ICME) evolution and subsequent galactic cosmic ray (GCR) modulation during propagation in the inner heliosphere. We illustrate ICME propagation effects through two different case studies. The first ICME was launched from the Sun on 29 December 2011 and was observed in near-perfect longitudinal conjunction at MESSENGER and STEREO A. Despite the close longitudinal alignment, we infer from force-free field modeling that the orientation of the underlying flux rope rotated ˜80o in latitude and ˜65o in longitude. Based on both spacecraft measurements as well as ENLIL model simulations of the steady state solar wind, we find that interactions involving magnetic reconnection with corotating structures in the solar wind dramatically alter the ICME magnetic field. In particular, we observed at STEREO A a highly turbulent region with distinct properties within the flux rope that was not observed at MESSENGER; we attribute this region to interaction between the ICME and a heliospheric plasma sheet/current sheet. This is a concrete example of a sequence of events that can increase the complexity of ICMEs during propagation and should serve as a caution on using very distant observations to predict the geoeffectiveness of large interplanetary transients. Our second case study investigates changes with heliospheric distance in GCR modulation by an ICME event (launched on 12 February 2014) observed in near-conjunction at all four of the inner solar system planets. The ICME caused Forbush decreases (FDs) in the GCR count rates at Mercury (MESSENGER), Earth/Moon (ACE/LRO), and Mars (MSL). At all three locations, the pre-ICME background GCR rate was well-matched, but the depth of the FD of GCR fluxes with similar energy ranges diminished with distance from the Sun. A larger difference in FD size was observed between Mercury and Earth than between Earth and Mars, partly owing to the much larger drop in the ICME magnetic field magnitude between Mercury and Earth, and to the faster ICME speed decrease closer to the Sun. The results from these case studies give both a direct and indirect view of how ICMEs evolve during propagation as well as a glimpse of the inner heliosphere environment about to be explored by the Parker Solar Probe and Solar Orbiter.

Evaluation of the participation of ferredoxin in oxygen reduction in the photosynthetic electron transport chain of isolated pea thylakoids.

PubMed

Kozuleva, Marina A; Ivanov, Boris N

2010-07-01

The contribution to reduction of oxygen by ferredoxin (Fd) to the overall reduction of oxygen in isolated pea thylakoids was studied in the presence of Fd versus Fd + NADP(+). The overall rate of electron transport was measured using a determination of Photosystem II quantum yield from chlorophyll fluorescence parameters, and the rate of oxidation of Fd was measured from the light-induced redox changes of Fd. At low light intensity, increasing Fd concentration from 5 to 30 microM in the absence of NADP(+) increased the proportion of oxygen reduction by Fd from 25-35 to 40-60% in different experiments. This proportion decreased with increasing light intensity. When NADP(+) was added in the presence of 15 microM Fd, which was optimal for the NADP(+) reduction rate, the participation of Fd in the reduction of oxygen was low, no more than 10%, and it also decreased with increasing light intensity. At high light intensity, the overall oxygen reduction rates in the presence of Fd + NADP(+) and in the presence of Fd alone were comparable. The significance of reduction of dioxygen either by water-soluble Fd or by the membrane-bound carriers of the photosynthetic electron transport chain for redox signaling under different light intensities is discussed.

Hindbrain A2 noradrenergic neuron adenosine 5'-monophosphate-activated protein kinase activation, upstream kinase/phosphorylase protein expression, and receptivity to hormone and fuel reporters of short-term food deprivation are regulated by estradiol.

PubMed

Briski, Karen P; Alenazi, Fahaad S H; Shakya, Manita; Sylvester, Paul W

2017-07-01

Estradiol (E) mitigates acute and postacute adverse effects of 12 hr-food deprivation (FD) on energy balance. Hindbrain 5'-monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) regulates hyperphagic and hypothalamic metabolic neuropeptide and norepinephrine responses to FD in an E-dependent manner. Energy-state information from AMPK-expressing hindbrain A2 noradrenergic neurons shapes neural responses to metabolic imbalance. Here we investigate the hypothesis that FD causes divergent changes in A2 AMPK activity in E- vs. oil (O)-implanted ovariectomized female rats, alongside dissimilar adjustments in circulating metabolic fuel (glucose, free fatty acids [FFA]) and energy deficit-sensitive hormone (corticosterone, glucagon, leptin) levels. FD decreased blood glucose in oil (O)- but not E-implanted ovariectomized female rats and elevated and reduced glucagon levels in O and E, respectively. FD decreased circulating leptin in O and E, but increased corticosterone and FFA concentrations in E only. Western blot analysis of laser-microdissected A2 neurons showed that glucocorticoid receptor type II and very-long-chain acyl-CoA synthetase 3 protein profiles were amplified in FD/E vs. FD/O. A2 total AMPK protein was elevated without change in activity in FD/O, whereas FD/E exhibited increased AMPK activation along with decreased upstream phosphatase expression. The catecholamine biosynthetic enzyme dopamine-β-hydroxylase (DβH) was increased in FD/O but not FD/E A2 cells. The data show discordance between A2 AMPK activation and glycemic responses to FD; sensor activity was refractory to glucose decrements in FD/O but augmented in FD/E despite stabilized glucose and elevated FFA levels. E-dependent amplification of AMPK activity may reflect adaptive conversion to fatty acid oxidation and/or glucocorticoid stimulation. FD augmentation of A2 DβH protein profiles in FD/O but not FD/E animals suggests that FD may correspondingly regulate NE synthesis vs. metabolism/release in the absence vs. presence of E. Mechanisms underlying translation of E-contingent A2 neuron responses to FD into regulatory signaling remain to be determined. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Forbush decreases geomagnetic and atmospheric effects cosmogenic nuclides

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Flueckiger, E. O.

1986-01-01

An overview and synthesis is given of recent developments that have occurred in the areas of Forbush decreases, geomagnetic and atmospheric effects, and cosmogenic nuclides. Experimental evidence has been found for substantial differences in the effects of the various types of interplanetary perturbations on cosmic rays, and for a dependence of these effects on the three-dimensional configuration of the interplanetary medium. In order to fully understand and to be able to simulate the solar cosmic ray particle access to the polar regions of the earth we need accurate models of the magnetospheric magnetic field. These models must include all major magnetospheric current systems (in particular the field aligned currents), and they should represent magnetically quiet time periods as well as different levels of geomagnetic activity. In the evolution of magnetospheric magnetic field models, cosmic ray and magnetospheric physicists should work closely together since cosmic ray measurements are a powerful additional tool in the study of the perturbed magnetosphere. In the field of cosmogenic nuclides, finally, exciting new results and developments follow in rapid succession. Thanks to new techniques and new isotopes the analysis of cosmic ray history has entered into a new dimension.

Statistical analyses of influence of solar and geomagnetic activities on car accident events

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alania, M. V.; Gil, A.; Wieliczuk, R.

2001-01-01

Statistical analyses of the influence of Solar and geomagnetic activity, sector structure of the interplanetary magnetic field and galactic cosmic ray Forbush effects on car accident events in Poland for the period of 1990-1999 have been carried out. Using auto-correlation, cross-correlation, spectral analyses and superposition epochs methods it has been shown that there are separate periods when car accident events have direct correlation with Ap index of the geomagnetic activity, sector structure of the interplanetary magnetic field and Forbush decreases of galactic cosmic rays. Nevertheless, the single-valued direct correlation is not possible to reveal for the whole period of 1990-1999. Periodicity of 7 days and its second harmonic (3.5 days) has been reliably revealed in the car accident events data in Poland for the each year of the period 1990-1999. It is shown that the maximum car accident events take place in Poland on Friday and practically does not depend on the level of solar and geomagnetic activities.

A cross-bridge based model of force depression: Can a single modification address both transient and steady-state behaviors?

PubMed

Corr, David T; Herzog, Walter

2016-03-21

Force depression (FD), the reduction of isometric force following active shortening, is a phenomenon of skeletal muscle that has received significant attention in biomechanical and physiological literature, yet the mechanisms underlying FD remain unknown. Recent experiments identified a slower rate of force redevelopment with increasing amounts of steady-state FD, suggesting that FD may be caused, at least in part, by a decrease in cross-bridge binding rate (Corr and Herzog, 2005; Koppes et al., 2014). Herein, we develop a cross-bridge based model of FD in which the binding rate function, f, decreases with the mechanical work performed during shortening. This modification incorporates a direct relationship between steady-state FD and muscle mechanical work (Corr and Herzog, 2005; Herzog et al., 2000; Kosterina et al., 2008), and is consistent with a proposed mechanism attributing FD to stress-induced inhibition of cross-bridge attachments (Herzog, 1998; Maréchal and Plaghki, 1979). Thus, for an increase in mechanical work, the model should predict a slower force redevelopment (decreased attachment rate) to a more depressed steady-state force (fewer attached cross-bridges), and a reduction in contractile element stiffness (Ford et al., 1981). We hypothesized that since this modification affects the cross-bridge kinetics, a corresponding model would be able to account for both transient and steady-state FD behaviors. Comparisons to prior experiments (Corr and Herzog, 2005; Herzog et al., 2000; Kosterina et al., 2008) show that both steady-state and transient aspects of FD, as well as the relationship of FD with respect to speed and amplitude of shortening, are well captured by this model. Thus, this relatively simple cross-bridge based model of FD lends support to a mechanism involving the inhibition of cross-bridge binding, and indicates that cross-bridge kinetics may play a critical role in FD. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Tissue-Specific Expression of DNA Methyltransferases Involved in Early-Life Nutritional Stress of Chicken, Gallus gallus

PubMed Central

Kang, Seong W.; Madkour, Mahmoud; Kuenzel, Wayne J.

2017-01-01

DNA methylation was reported as a possible stress-adaptation mechanism involved in the transcriptional regulation of stress responsive genes. Limited data are available on effects of psychological stress and early-life nutritional stress on DNA methylation regulators [DNMTs: DNA (cytosine-5)-methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1), DNMT1 associated protein (DMAP1), DNMT 3 alpha (DNMT3A) and beta (DNMT3B)] in avian species. The objectives of this study were to: (1) investigate changes in expression of DNMT1, DMAP1, DNMT3A, and DNMT3B following acute (AS) or chronic immobilization stress (CS); (2) test immediate effect of early-life nutritional stress [food deprivation (FD) for 12 h (12hFD) or 36 h (36hFD) at the post-hatching period] on expression of DNA methylation regulators and glucocorticoid receptor (GR), and the long-term effect of early-life nutritional stress at 6 weeks of age. Expression of DNMTs and plasma corticosterone (CORT) concentration decreased by CS compared to AS (p < 0.05), indicating differential roles of DNA methylation regulators in the stress response. Plasma CORT at 12hFD and 36hFD birds increased compared to control birds (12hF and 36hF), but there were no significant differences in plasma CORT of 12hFD and 36hFD birds at 6 weeks of age compared to 6 week controls. DNMT1, DMAP1, and DNMT3B expression in the anterior pituitary increased by 12hFD, but decreased at 36hFD compared to their controls (P < 0.05). In liver, DNMT1, DNMT3A, and DNMT3B expression decreased by 12hFD, however, no significant changes occurred at 36hFD. Expression of DMAP1, DNMT3A, and DNMT3B in anterior pituitary and DMAP1 and DNMT3A expression in liver at 6 weeks of age were higher in 36hFD stressed birds compared to controls as well as 12hFD stressed birds. Hepatic GR expression decreased by 12hFD and increased by 36hFD (p < 0.05). Expression patterns of GR in the liver of FD stress-induced birds persisted until 6 weeks of age, suggesting the possible lifelong involvement of liver GR in early-life nutritional stress response of birds. Taken together, results suggest that DNA methylation regulator genes are tissue-specifically responsive to acute and chronic stress, and hepatic GR may play a critical role in regulating the early-life nutritional stress response of birds. In addition, the downregulation of DNMT1 and DMAP1 may be one of the adaptive mechanisms to chronic early-life nutritional stress via passive demethylation. PMID:29270191

Elves, Forbush Decreases and Solar Activity Studies at the Pierre Auger Observatory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Colalillo, Roberta

The Pierre Auger Observatory, designed to observe cosmic rays at the highest energies, can also be a valid ground based instrument for the observation of transient luminous events and for studying the modulation of galactic cosmic rays due to solar activity. The Fluorescence Detector can observe elves, transient luminous emissions from altitudes between 80 and 95 km above sea level, with timescales of tens of microseconds, which are triggered by lightning activity. A dedicated trigger and an extended readout scheme were introduced to enhance detection efficiency of these events and to improve the knowledge of some peculiar characteristics. The low energy mode of the Surface Detector, on the other hand, records variations in the flux of low energy secondary particles with extreme detail. With the Scaler mode, it is possible to register the rate of signals for deposited energies between 15-100 MeV; the Histogram mode, using the calibration peak and charge histograms of the individual pulses detected by each water-Cherenkov station, covers different deposited energy ranges up to 1 GeV. The variations in the flux of galactic cosmic rays have been studied on short and intermediate time scales (Forbush decreases), but also a long-term analysis, which shows the sensitivity of the Observatory to the solar cycle variation, is in progress.

From a single Neutron Monitor to an International Network: the Real-Time Database for High-Resolution Neutron Monitor Measurements (NMDB)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Steigies, C. T.

2016-12-01

Cosmic rays are routinely measured by standardized ground-based Neutron Monitors (NM) around the world. Stations provide measurements as 1-hour averages to the World-Data Center for Cosmic Rays, but most stations can also provide high-resolution measurements at 1-minute cadence. Measurements of one station provide information about the cosmic ray intensity over time at this location. By correcting the measurement for changes in atmospheric pressure, the intensity of the incoming radiation at the top of the atmosphere can be determined. Studying this time series gives information about long-term changes in the heliospheric environment (11 and 22 year solar cycles), as well as information on shorter (Forbush decrease, Fd) and impulsive (Ground Level Enhancement, GLE) events. Since the measurement of a NM is a cumulative measurement a single station can provide only limited information on the spectrum of the incoming radiation. The whole network of Neutron Monitors, however, can act as a large spectrometer. By combining the measurements of many NM stations, the direction and the spectrum of the incoming radiation can be modeled. With this method, high energy solar particle events (that lead to GLEs) and the precursors of Coronal Mass Ejections (CME, manifesting as a Fd) can be detected by the ground-based instruments before the lower energy particles can harm satellites or astronauts. These ALERT systems require the availability of NM data in real-time, which wass one of the goals of the NMDB project. The easy to use NEST interface (nest.nmdb.eu) to NMDB data allows everyone to plot and download data for all participating stations. Since the project started, not only space agencies and ALERT systems make use of the data, but NMDB has attracted several users outside the cosmic ray community. This data is now also used for example as reference value for soil humidity measurements with cosmic rays, or by the DHS for radiation monitors at border crossings, as well as for computer companies testing the susceptibility of their ICs to cosmic rays. These new uses have only become possible since the individual stations have agreed to share their data freely. We encourage all NM stations that are not yet part of NMDB to join the network, and the space and funding agencies to continue to support these important measurements.

Opposing Patterns of Seasonal Change in Functional and Phylogenetic Diversity of Tadpole Assemblages

PubMed Central

Strauß, Axel; Guilhaumon, François; Randrianiaina, Roger Daniel; Wollenberg Valero, Katharina C.; Vences, Miguel; Glos, Julian

2016-01-01

Assemblages that are exposed to recurring temporal environmental changes can show changes in their ecological properties. These can be expressed by differences in diversity and assembly rules. Both can be identified using two measures of diversity: functional (FD) and phylogenetic diversity (PD). Frog communities are understudied in this regard, especially during the tadpole life stage. We utilised tadpole assemblages from Madagascan rainforest streams to test predictions of seasonal changes on diversity and assemblage composition and on diversity measures. From the warm-wet to the cool-dry season, species richness (SR) of tadpole assemblages decreased. Also FD and PD decreased, but FD less and PD more than expected by chance. During the dry season, tadpole assemblages were characterised by functional redundancy (among assemblages—with increasing SR), high FD (compared to a null model), and low PD (phylogenetic clustering; compared to a null model). Although mutually contradictory at first glance, these results indicate competition as tadpole community assembly driving force. This is true during the limiting cool-dry season but not during the more suitable warm-wet season. We thereby show that assembly rules can strongly depend on season, that comparing FD and PD can reveal such forces, that FD and PD are not interchangeable, and that conclusions on assembly rules based on FD alone are critical. PMID:27014867

Identification of the Binding Region of the [2Fe-2S] Ferredoxin in Stearoyl-Acyl Carrier Protein Desaturase

PubMed Central

Sobrado, Pablo; Lyle, Karen S.; Kaul, Steven P.; Turco, Michelle M.; Arabshahi, Ida; Marwah, Ashok; Fox, Brian G.

2008-01-01

Stearoyl-acyl carrier protein desaturase (Δ9D) catalyzes the O2 and 2e- dependent desaturation of stearoyl-acyl carrier protein (18:0-ACP) to yield oleoyl-ACP (18:1-ACP). The 2e- are provided by essential interactions with reduced plant-type [2Fe-2S] ferredoxin (Fd). We have investigated the protein-protein interface involved in the Fd-Δ9D complex by use of chemical cross-linking, site-directed mutagenesis, steady-state kinetic approaches and molecular docking studies. Treatment of the different proteins with 1-ethyl-3-(3-dimethylaminopropyl)carbodiimide and N-hydroxysuccinimide revealed that carboxylate residues from Fd and lysine residues from Δ9D contribute to the cross-linking. The single substitutions of K60A, K56A, and K230A on Δ9D decreased the kcat/KM for Fd by 4-, 22- and 2,400-fold, respectively, as compared to wt Δ9D and a K41A substitution. The double substitution K56A/K60A decreased the kcat/KM for Fd by 250-fold, while the triple mutation K56A/K60A/K230A decreased the kcat/KM for Fd by at least 700,000-fold. These results strongly implicate the triad of K56, K60 and K230 of Δ9D in the formation of a catalytic complex with Fd. Molecular docking studies indicate that electrostatic interactions between K56 and K60 and carboxylate groups on Fd may situate the [2Fe-2S] cluster of Fd near to W62, a surface residue that is structurally conserved in both ribonucleotide reductase and mycobacterial putative acyl-ACP desaturase DesA2. Owing to the considerably larger effects on catalysis, K230 appears to have other contributions to catalysis arising from its positioning in helix-7 and its close spatial location to the diiron center ligands E229 and H232. These results are considered in the light of the presently available models for Fd-mediated electron transfer in Δ9D and other protein-protein complexes. PMID:16605252

An implicit spatial and high-order temporal finite difference scheme for 2D acoustic modelling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Enjiang; Liu, Yang

2018-01-01

The finite difference (FD) method exhibits great superiority over other numerical methods due to its easy implementation and small computational requirement. We propose an effective FD method, characterised by implicit spatial and high-order temporal schemes, to reduce both the temporal and spatial dispersions simultaneously. For the temporal derivative, apart from the conventional second-order FD approximation, a special rhombus FD scheme is included to reach high-order accuracy in time. Compared with the Lax-Wendroff FD scheme, this scheme can achieve nearly the same temporal accuracy but requires less floating-point operation times and thus less computational cost when the same operator length is adopted. For the spatial derivatives, we adopt the implicit FD scheme to improve the spatial accuracy. Apart from the existing Taylor series expansion-based FD coefficients, we derive the least square optimisation based implicit spatial FD coefficients. Dispersion analysis and modelling examples demonstrate that, our proposed method can effectively decrease both the temporal and spatial dispersions, thus can provide more accurate wavefields.

The effects of partial use of formula diet on weight reduction and metabolic variables in obese type 2 diabetic patients--multicenter trial.

PubMed

Shirai, Kohji; Saiki, Atsuhito; Oikawa, Shinichi; Teramoto, Tamio; Yamada, Nobuhiro; Ishibashi, Shun; Tada, Norio; Miyazaki, Shigeru; Inoue, Ikuo; Murano, Shunichi; Sakane, Naoki; Satoh-Asahara, Noriko; Bujo, Hideaki; Miyashita, Yoh; Saito, Yasushi

2013-01-01

To clarify the usefulness of protein-sparing modified formula diet in obese type 2 diabetic patients, the effects of partial use of formula diet on weight reduction and changes in related metabolic variables, and the improving rates of risk factors per 1% body weight reduction, were compared with those of conventional subcaloric diet. Obese patients [BMI >25 kg/m²] with diabetic mellitus were randomly assigned to a low-caloric diet with partial use of formula diet group (FD, n = 119) and a conventional low-caloric diet group (CD, n = 110). Subjects in FD took one pack of formula diet (MicroDiet®, 240 kcal/pack) in place of one of three daily low-caloric meals for 24 weeks. Total daily calorie prescribed was same. Weight reduction was greater in FD than in CD (week 24: -3.5 vs -1.4 kg; all p < 0.001). Systolic blood pressure decreased significantly only in FD. HbA1c reduction was greater in FD than in CD. HDL-cholesterol increased significantly more in FD than in CD (week 24: +2.8 vs. +0.6 mg/dl, p < 0.001). Among several improving rates (%) of risk factors/1% body weight reduction, those of HbA1c at weeks 16 and 24, triglyceride at week 8 and HDL-cholesterol at week 24, were significantly higher in FD than CD. Doses of sulfonylurea and thiazolidinedione were significantly decreased in FD than in CD. Partial use of formula diet was much more effective in reducing body weight, and also in improving coronary risk factors than conventional diet in part due to reduced body weight through decreased energy diet intake and due to dietary composition of the formula diet. © 2013 Asian Oceanian Association for the Study of Obesity . Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Fractal dimension of EEG activity senses neuronal impairment in acute stroke.

PubMed

Zappasodi, Filippo; Olejarczyk, Elzbieta; Marzetti, Laura; Assenza, Giovanni; Pizzella, Vittorio; Tecchio, Franca

2014-01-01

The brain is a self-organizing system which displays self-similarities at different spatial and temporal scales. Thus, the complexity of its dynamics, associated to efficient processing and functional advantages, is expected to be captured by a measure of its scale-free (fractal) properties. Under the hypothesis that the fractal dimension (FD) of the electroencephalographic signal (EEG) is optimally sensitive to the neuronal dysfunction secondary to a brain lesion, we tested the FD's ability in assessing two key processes in acute stroke: the clinical impairment and the recovery prognosis. Resting EEG was collected in 36 patients 4-10 days after a unilateral ischemic stroke in the middle cerebral artery territory and 19 healthy controls. National Health Institute Stroke Scale (NIHss) was collected at T0 and 6 months later. Highuchi FD, its inter-hemispheric asymmetry (FDasy) and spectral band powers were calculated for EEG signals. FD was smaller in patients than in controls (1.447±0.092 vs 1.525±0.105) and its reduction was paired to a worse acute clinical status. FD decrease was associated to alpha increase and beta decrease of oscillatory activity power. Larger FDasy in acute phase was paired to a worse clinical recovery at six months. FD in our patients captured the loss of complexity reflecting the global system dysfunction resulting from the structural damage. This decrease seems to reveal the intimate nature of structure-function unity, where the regional neural multi-scale self-similar activity is impaired by the anatomical lesion. This picture is coherent with neuronal activity complexity decrease paired to a reduced repertoire of functional abilities. FDasy result highlights the functional relevance of the balance between homologous brain structures' activities in stroke recovery.

A multicenter randomized trial comparing rabeprazole and itopride in patients with functional dyspepsia in Japan: the NAGOYA study

PubMed Central

Kamiya, Takeshi; Shikano, Michiko; Kubota, Eiji; Mizoshita, Tsutomu; Wada, Tsuneya; Tanida, Satoshi; Kataoka, Hiromi; Adachi, Hiroshi; Hirako, Makoto; Okuda, Noriaki; Joh, Takashi

2017-01-01

The aims of this study were to compare the therapeutic effects of a proton pump inhibitor (PPI), rabeprazole (RPZ), and a prokinetic agent, itopride (ITO), and to investigate the role of PPI in the treatment strategy for Japanese functional dyspepsia (FD) patients. We randomly assigned 134 patients diagnosed by Rome III criteria to 4 weeks treatment with RPZ 10 mg/day (n = 69) or ITO 150 mg/day (n = 65). Dyspeptic symptoms were evaluated using FD scores at baseline and after 1, 2 and 4 weeks of treatment. We also divided subjects into predominantly epigastric pain syndrome (EPS) or postprandial distress syndrome (PDS), and evaluated the efficacy of RPZ and ITO respectively. RPZ showed a significant decrease in the Rate of Change (RC) in FD score within 1 week, which was maintained until after 4 weeks, with RPZ a significant effect compared with ITO at all evaluation points. In addition, RPZ showed a significant decrease in FD score in subjects with both EPS and PDS, whereas a significant decrease in the RC with ITO was only shown in those with predominant PDS. Acid-suppressive therapy with RPZ is useful for PDS as well EPS in Japanese FD patients (UMIN Clinical Trials Registry number: UMIN 000013962). PMID:28366993

A multicenter randomized trial comparing rabeprazole and itopride in patients with functional dyspepsia in Japan: the NAGOYA study.

PubMed

Kamiya, Takeshi; Shikano, Michiko; Kubota, Eiji; Mizoshita, Tsutomu; Wada, Tsuneya; Tanida, Satoshi; Kataoka, Hiromi; Adachi, Hiroshi; Hirako, Makoto; Okuda, Noriaki; Joh, Takashi

2017-03-01

The aims of this study were to compare the therapeutic effects of a proton pump inhibitor (PPI), rabeprazole (RPZ), and a prokinetic agent, itopride (ITO), and to investigate the role of PPI in the treatment strategy for Japanese functional dyspepsia (FD) patients. We randomly assigned 134 patients diagnosed by Rome III criteria to 4 weeks treatment with RPZ 10 mg/day ( n  = 69) or ITO 150 mg/day ( n  = 65). Dyspeptic symptoms were evaluated using FD scores at baseline and after 1, 2 and 4 weeks of treatment. We also divided subjects into predominantly epigastric pain syndrome (EPS) or postprandial distress syndrome (PDS), and evaluated the efficacy of RPZ and ITO respectively. RPZ showed a significant decrease in the Rate of Change (RC) in FD score within 1 week, which was maintained until after 4 weeks, with RPZ a significant effect compared with ITO at all evaluation points. In addition, RPZ showed a significant decrease in FD score in subjects with both EPS and PDS, whereas a significant decrease in the RC with ITO was only shown in those with predominant PDS. Acid-suppressive therapy with RPZ is useful for PDS as well EPS in Japanese FD patients (UMIN Clinical Trials Registry number: UMIN 000013962).

Burden of impaired sleep quality on work productivity in functional dyspepsia.

PubMed

Matsuzaki, Juntaro; Suzuki, Hidekazu; Togawa, Koji; Yamane, Tsuyoshi; Mori, Hideki; Komori, Takahiro; Masaoka, Tatsuhiro; Kanai, Takanori

2018-04-01

Impaired sleep quality is common, and can reduce work productivity in patients with functional dyspepsia (FD). The objective of this article is to evaluate whether there is a direct association between the presence of FD and the severity of impaired sleep quality, and to calculate the economic loss due to the decreased work productivity associated with sleep quality. In Study 1, using a web-based survey completed by workers with and without FD, we evaluated impaired sleep quality, work and daily productivity, and the severity of reflux and bowel symptoms. In Study 2, the association between the presence of FD and the severity of impaired sleep quality was validated in a hospital-based cohort. In both Study 1 and 2, although impaired sleep quality was more frequent in participants with FD than in those without FD, the independent association between the presence of FD and the severity of impaired sleep quality was not observed after adjustment for the severity of reflux and bowel symptoms. FD participants with impaired sleep quality reported additional economic loss of 53,500 Japanese yen/month. Although the association between impaired sleep quality and FD was indirect, concomitant impaired sleep quality could worsen economic loss.

Phosphatidylserine Ameliorates Neurodegenerative Symptoms and Enhances Axonal Transport in a Mouse Model of Familial Dysautonomia

PubMed Central

Naftelberg, Shiran; Abramovitch, Ziv; Gluska, Shani; Yannai, Sivan; Joshi, Yuvraj; Donyo, Maya; Ben-Yaakov, Keren; Gradus, Tal; Zonszain, Jonathan; Farhy, Chen; Ashery-Padan, Ruth

2016-01-01

Familial Dysautonomia (FD) is a neurodegenerative disease in which aberrant tissue-specific splicing of IKBKAP exon 20 leads to reduction of IKAP protein levels in neuronal tissues. Here we generated a conditional knockout (CKO) mouse in which exon 20 of IKBKAP is deleted in the nervous system. The CKO FD mice exhibit developmental delays, sensory abnormalities, and less organized dorsal root ganglia (DRGs) with attenuated axons compared to wild-type mice. Furthermore, the CKO FD DRGs show elevated HDAC6 levels, reduced acetylated α-tubulin, unstable microtubules, and impairment of axonal retrograde transport of nerve growth factor (NGF). These abnormalities in DRG properties underlie neuronal degeneration and FD symptoms. Phosphatidylserine treatment decreased HDAC6 levels and thus increased acetylation of α-tubulin. Further PS treatment resulted in recovery of axonal outgrowth and enhanced retrograde axonal transport by decreasing histone deacetylase 6 (HDAC6) levels and thus increasing acetylation of α-tubulin levels. Thus, we have identified the molecular pathway that leads to neurodegeneration in FD and have demonstrated that phosphatidylserine treatment has the potential to slow progression of neurodegeneration. PMID:27997532

Phosphatidylserine Ameliorates Neurodegenerative Symptoms and Enhances Axonal Transport in a Mouse Model of Familial Dysautonomia.

PubMed

Naftelberg, Shiran; Abramovitch, Ziv; Gluska, Shani; Yannai, Sivan; Joshi, Yuvraj; Donyo, Maya; Ben-Yaakov, Keren; Gradus, Tal; Zonszain, Jonathan; Farhy, Chen; Ashery-Padan, Ruth; Perlson, Eran; Ast, Gil

2016-12-01

Familial Dysautonomia (FD) is a neurodegenerative disease in which aberrant tissue-specific splicing of IKBKAP exon 20 leads to reduction of IKAP protein levels in neuronal tissues. Here we generated a conditional knockout (CKO) mouse in which exon 20 of IKBKAP is deleted in the nervous system. The CKO FD mice exhibit developmental delays, sensory abnormalities, and less organized dorsal root ganglia (DRGs) with attenuated axons compared to wild-type mice. Furthermore, the CKO FD DRGs show elevated HDAC6 levels, reduced acetylated α-tubulin, unstable microtubules, and impairment of axonal retrograde transport of nerve growth factor (NGF). These abnormalities in DRG properties underlie neuronal degeneration and FD symptoms. Phosphatidylserine treatment decreased HDAC6 levels and thus increased acetylation of α-tubulin. Further PS treatment resulted in recovery of axonal outgrowth and enhanced retrograde axonal transport by decreasing histone deacetylase 6 (HDAC6) levels and thus increasing acetylation of α-tubulin levels. Thus, we have identified the molecular pathway that leads to neurodegeneration in FD and have demonstrated that phosphatidylserine treatment has the potential to slow progression of neurodegeneration.

Normal force and drag force in magnetorheological finishing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Miao, Chunlin; Shafrir, Shai N.; Lambropoulos, John C.; Jacobs, Stephen D.

2009-08-01

The material removal in magnetorheological finishing (MRF) is known to be controlled by shear stress, λ, which equals drag force, Fd, divided by spot area, As. However, it is unclear how the normal force, Fn, affects the material removal in MRF and how the measured ratio of drag force to normal force Fd/Fn, equivalent to coefficient of friction, is related to material removal. This work studies, for the first time for MRF, the normal force and the measured ratio Fd/Fn as a function of material mechanical properties. Experimental data were obtained by taking spots on a variety of materials including optical glasses and hard ceramics with a spot-taking machine (STM). Drag force and normal force were measured with a dual load cell. Drag force decreases linearly with increasing material hardness. In contrast, normal force increases with hardness for glasses, saturating at high hardness values for ceramics. Volumetric removal rate decreases with normal force across all materials. The measured ratio Fd/Fn shows a strong negative linear correlation with material hardness. Hard materials exhibit a low "coefficient of friction". The volumetric removal rate increases with the measured ratio Fd/Fn which is also correlated with shear stress, indicating that the measured ratio Fd/Fn is a useful measure of material removal in MRF.

Normal Force and Drag Force in Magnetorheological Finishing

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

Miao, C.; Shafrir, S.N.; Lambropoulos, J.C.

2010-01-13

The material removal in magnetorheological finishing (MRF) is known to be controlled by shear stress, tau, which equals drag force, Fd, divided by spot area, As. However, it is unclear how the normal force, Fn, affects the material removal in MRF and how the measured ratio of drag force to normal force Fd/Fn, equivalent to coefficient of friction, is related to material removal. This work studies, for the first time for MRF, the normal force and the measured ratio Fd/Fn as a function of material mechanical properties. Experimental data were obtained by taking spots on a variety of materials includingmore » optical glasses and hard ceramics with a spot-taking machine (STM). Drag force and normal force were measured with a dual load cell. Drag force decreases linearly with increasing material hardness. In contrast, normal force increases with hardness for glasses, saturating at high hardness values for ceramics. Volumetric removal rate decreases with normal force across all materials. The measured ratio Fd/Fn shows a strong negative linear correlation with material hardness. Hard materials exhibit a low “coefficient of friction”. The volumetric removal rate increases with the measured ratio Fd/Fn which is also correlated with shear stress, indicating that the measured ratio Fd/Fn is a useful measure of material removal in MRF.« less

Measurements of Forbush decreases at Mars: both by MSL on ground and by MAVEN in orbit

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guo, Jingnan; Lillis, Robert; Wimmer-Schweingruber, Robert F.; Zeitlin, Cary; Simonson, Patrick; Rahmati, Ali; Posner, Arik; Papaioannou, Athanasios; Lundt, Niklas; Lee, Christina O.; Larson, Davin; Halekas, Jasper; Hassler, Donald M.; Ehresmann, Bent; Dunn, Patrick; Böttcher, Stephan

2018-04-01

The Radiation Assessment Detector (RAD), on board Mars Science Laboratory's (MSL) Curiosity rover, has been measuring ground level particle fluxes along with the radiation dose rate at the surface of Mars since August 2012. Similar to neutron monitors at Earth, RAD sees many Forbush decreases (FDs) in the galactic cosmic ray (GCR) induced surface fluxes and dose rates. These FDs are associated with coronal mass ejections (CMEs) and/or stream/corotating interaction regions (SIRs/CIRs). Orbiting above the Martian atmosphere, the Mars Atmosphere and Volatile EvolutioN (MAVEN) spacecraft has also been monitoring space weather conditions at Mars since September 2014. The penetrating particle flux channels in the solar energetic particle (SEP) instrument onboard MAVEN can also be employed to detect FDs. For the first time, we study the statistics and properties of a list of FDs observed in-situ at Mars, seen both on the surface by MSL/RAD and in orbit detected by the MAVEN/SEP instrument. Such a list of FDs can be used for studying interplanetary coronal mass ejections (ICME) propagation and SIR evolution through the inner heliosphere. The magnitudes of different FDs can be well-fitted by a power-law distribution. The systematic difference between the magnitudes of the FDs within and outside the Martian atmosphere may be mostly attributed to the energy-dependent modulation of the GCR particles by both the pass-by ICMEs/SIRs and the Martian atmosphere.

Carbon-Type Analysis and Comparison of Original and Reblended FACE Diesel Fuels (FACE 2, FACE 4, and FACE 7)

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

Bays, J. Timothy; King, David L.; O'Hagan, Molly J.

This report summarizes the carbon-type analysis from 1H and 13C{1H} nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR) of Fuels for Advanced Combustion Engines (FACE) diesel blends, FD-2B, FD 4B, and FD-7B, and makes comparison of the new blends with the original FACE diesel blends, FD 2A, FD 4A, and FD-7A, respectively. Generally, FD-2A and FD-2B are more similar than the A and B blends of FD-4 and FD-7. The aromatic carbon content is roughly equivalent, although the new FACE blends have decreased monoaromatic content and increased di- and tri-cycloaromatic content, as well as a higher overall aromatic content, than the original FACEmore » blends. The aromatic components of the new FACE blends generally have a higher alkyl substitution with longer alkyl substituents. The naphthenic and paraffinic contents remained relatively consistent. Based on aliphatic methyl and methylene carbon ratios, cetane numbers for FD-2A and -2B, and FD-7A and -7B are predicted to be consistent, while the cetane number for FD-4B is predicted to be higher than FD-4A. Overall, the new FACE fuel blends are fairly consistent with the original FACE fuel blends, but there are observable differences. In addition to providing important comparative compositional information on reformulated FACE diesel blends, this report also provides important information about the capabilities of the team at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory in the use of NMR spectroscopy for the detailed characterization and comparison of fuels and fuel blends.« less

Social-adaptive and psychological functioning of patients affected by Fabry disease.

PubMed

Laney, Dawn Alyssia; Gruskin, Daniel J; Fernhoff, Paul M; Cubells, Joseph F; Ousley, Opal Y; Hipp, Heather; Mehta, Ami J

2010-12-01

Fabry disease (FD) is an X-linked lysosomal storage disorder caused by the deficiency of alpha-galactosidase A. In addition to the debilitating physical symptoms of FD, there are also under-recognized and poorly characterized psychiatric features. As a first step toward characterizing psychiatric features of FD, we administered the Achenbach adult self report questionnaire to 30 FD patients and the Achenbach adult behavior checklist questionnaire to 28 partners/parents/friends of FD patients. Data from at least one of the questionnaires were available on 33 subjects. Analysis focused on social-adaptive functioning in various aspects of daily life and on criteria related to the Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders IV (DSM-IV). Adaptive functioning scale values, which primarily measure social and relationship functioning and occupational success, showed that eight FD patients (six female and two male) had mean adaptive functioning deficits as compared to population norms. Greater rates of depression (P < 0.01), anxiety (P = 0.05), depression and anxiety (P = 0.03), antisocial personality (P < 0.001), attention-deficit/hyperactivity (AD/H; P < 0.01), hyperactivity-impulsivity (P < 0.01), and aggressive behavior (P = 0.03) were associated with poorer adaptive functioning. Decreased social-adaptive functioning in this study was not statistically significantly associated to disease severity, pain, or level of vitality. This study shows for the first time that FD patients, particularly women, are affected by decreased social-adaptive functioning. Comprehensive treatment plans for FD should consider assessments and interventions to evaluate and improve social, occupational, and psychological functioning. Attention to the behavioral aspects of FD could lead to improved treatment outcome and improved quality of life. Individuals affected by Fabry disease exhibited social-adaptive functioning deficits that were significantly correlated with anxiety, depression, antisocial behavior, and AD/H problems in a sampling of our male and female patients aged between 18 years and 59 years.

Age- and sex-related variations in the brain white matter fractal dimension throughout adulthood: an MRI study.

PubMed

Farahibozorg, S; Hashemi-Golpayegani, S M; Ashburner, J

2015-03-01

To observe age- and sex-related differences in the complexity of the global and hemispheric white matter (WM) throughout adulthood by means of fractal dimension (FD). A box-counting algorithm was used to extract FD from the WM magnetic resonance images of 209 healthy adults from three structural layers, including general (gFD), skeleton (sFD), and boundaries (bFD). Model selection algorithms and statistical analyses, respectively, were used to examine the patterns and significance of the changes. gFD and sFD showed inverse U-shape patterns with aging, with a slighter slope of increase from young to mid-age and a steeper decrease to the old. bFD was less affected by age. Sex differences were evident, specifically in gFD and sFD, with men showing higher FDs. Age × sex interaction was significant mainly in the hemispheric analysis, with men undergoing sharper age-related changes. After adjusting for the volume effect, age-related results remained approximately the same, but sex differences changed in most of the features, with women indicating higher values, specifically in the left hemisphere and boundaries. Right hemisphere was still more complex in men. This study is the first that investigates the WM FD spanning adulthood, treating age both as a continuous and categorical variable. We found positive correlations between FD and volume, and our results show similarities with those investigating small-world properties of the brain networks, as well as those of functional complexity and WM integrity. These suggest that FD could yield a highly compact description of the structural changes and also might inform us about functional and cognitive variations.

Energy utilization of induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocyte in Fabry disease.

PubMed

Chou, Shih-Jie; Yu, Wen-Chung; Chang, Yuh-Lih; Chen, Wen-Yeh; Chang, Wei-Chao; Chien, Yueh; Yen, Jiin-Cherng; Liu, Yung-Yang; Chen, Shih-Jen; Wang, Chien-Ying; Chen, Yu-Han; Niu, Dau-Ming; Lin, Shing-Jong; Chen, Jaw-Wen; Chiou, Shih-Hwa; Leu, Hsin-Bang

2017-04-01

Fabry disease (FD) is a lysosomal storage disease in which glycosphingolipids (GB3) accumulate in organs of the human body, leading to idiopathic hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and target organ damage. Its pathophysiology is still poorly understood. We aimed to generate patient-specific induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) from FD patients presenting cardiomyopathy to determine whether the model could recapitulate key features of the disease phenotype and to investigate the energy metabolism in Fabry disease. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells from a 30-year-old Chinese man with a diagnosis of Fabry disease, GLA gene (IVS4+919G>A) mutation were reprogrammed into iPSCs and differentiated into iPSC-CMs and energy metabolism was analyzed in iPSC-CMs. The FD-iPSC-CMs recapitulated numerous aspects of the FD phenotype including reduced GLA activity, cellular hypertrophy, GB3 accumulation and impaired contractility. Decreased energy metabolism with energy utilization shift to glycolysis was observed, but the decreased energy metabolism was not modified by enzyme rescue replacement (ERT) in FD-iPSCs-CMs. This model provided a promising in vitro model for the investigation of the underlying disease mechanism and development of novel therapeutic strategies for FD. This potential remedy for enhancing the energetic network and utility efficiency warrants further study to identify novel therapies for the disease. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Age-Related Changes in Electroencephalographic Signal Complexity

PubMed Central

Zappasodi, Filippo; Marzetti, Laura; Olejarczyk, Elzbieta; Tecchio, Franca; Pizzella, Vittorio

2015-01-01

The study of active and healthy aging is a primary focus for social and neuroscientific communities. Here, we move a step forward in assessing electrophysiological neuronal activity changes in the brain with healthy aging. To this end, electroencephalographic (EEG) resting state activity was acquired in 40 healthy subjects (age 16–85). We evaluated Fractal Dimension (FD) according to the Higuchi algorithm, a measure which quantifies the presence of statistical similarity at different scales in temporal fluctuations of EEG signals. Our results showed that FD increases from age twenty to age fifty and then decreases. The curve that best fits the changes in FD values across age over the whole sample is a parabola, with the vertex located around age fifty. Moreover, FD changes are site specific, with interhemispheric FD asymmetry being pronounced in elderly individuals in the frontal and central regions. The present results indicate that fractal dimension well describes the modulations of brain activity with age. Since fractal dimension has been proposed to be related to the complexity of the signal dynamics, our data demonstrate that the complexity of neuronal electric activity changes across the life span of an individual, with a steady increase during young adulthood and a decrease in the elderly population. PMID:26536036

Initiation of non-tropical thunderstorms by solar activity

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Herman, J. R.; Goldberg, R. A.

1976-01-01

Correlative evidence accumulating since 1926 suggests that there must be some physical coupling mechanism between solar activity and thunderstorm occurrence in middle to high latitudes. Such a link may be provided by alteration of atmospheric electric parameters through the combined influence of high-energy solar protons and decreased cosmic ray intensities, both of which are associated with active solar events. The protons produce excess ionization near and above 20km, while the Forbush decreases a lowered conductivity and enhanced fair-weather atmospheric electric field below that altitude. Consequent effects ultimately lead to a charge distribution similar to that found in thunderclouds, and then other cloud physics processes take over to generate the intense electric fields required for lightning discharge.

Overdiagnosis of gastro-esophageal reflux disease and underdiagnosis of functional dyspepsia in a USA community.

PubMed

Pleyer, C; Bittner, H; Locke, G R; Choung, R S; Zinsmeister, A R; Schleck, C D; Herrick, L M; Talley, N J

2014-08-01

There is symptom overlap between gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD) and functional dyspepsia (FD). We aimed to test the hypothesis that FD cases are now more likely mislabeled as GERD. In subjects from Olmsted County, MN seen at Mayo Clinic: (i) Investigation of GERD and FD diagnosis rates between 1985 and 2009. (ii) Assessment of survey-based upper gastrointestinal symptoms between 1988 and 2009. (iii) Analysis of patients reporting GERD and/or FD symptoms and subsequently receiving a consistent diagnosis of GERD and/or FD during a medical encounter. (iv) Assess the association between PPI use and GERD and/or FD symptoms and between actual diagnoses received. (i) Yearly GERD diagnosis rates rose between 1985 and 2009 (325-1866 per 100 000). FD diagnosis rates rose from 45 in 1985, to 964 in 1999 but decreased to 452 per 100 000 in 2009. (ii) Reported GERD symptoms did not significantly change between three survey waves in the years 1988-2009 (p = 0.052), whereas FD symptoms slightly increased (p = 0.01). (iii) 62.9% of subjects reporting GERD symptoms received a GERD diagnosis, however only 12.5% of subjects reporting FD symptoms received a FD diagnosis. (iv) PPI use was associated with documented GERD diagnosis (p < 0.001), however there was no significant association between GERD symptoms and PPI use (p = 0.078). We have found evidence supporting a systematic bias away from diagnosing FD, favoring a GERD diagnosis. © 2014 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Multi-spacecraft observations of ICMEs propagating beyond Earth orbit during MSL/RAD flight and surface phases

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

von Forstner, J.; Guo, J.; Wimmer-Schweingruber, R. F.; Hassler, D.; Temmer, M.; Vrsnak, B.; Čalogović, J.; Dumbovic, M.; Lohf, H.; Appel, J. K.; Heber, B.; Steigies, C. T.; Zeitlin, C.; Ehresmann, B.; Jian, L. K.; Boehm, E.; Boettcher, S. I.; Burmeister, S.; Martin-Garcia, C.; Brinza, D. E.; Posner, A.; Reitz, G.; Matthiae, D.; Rafkin, S. C.; weigle, G., II; Cucinotta, F.

2017-12-01

The propagation of interplanetary coronal mass ejections (ICMEs) between Earth's orbit (1 AU) and Mars ( 1.5 AU) has been studied with their propagation speed estimated from both measurements and simulations. The enhancement of the magnetic fields related to ICMEs and their shock fronts cause so-called Forbush decreases, which can be detected as a reduction of galactic cosmic rays measured on-ground or on a spacecraft. We have used galactic cosmic ray (GCR) data from in-situ measurements at Earth, from both STEREO A and B as well as the GCR measurement by the Radiation Assessment Detector (RAD) instrument onboard Mars Science Laboratory (MSL) on the surface of Mars as well as during its flight to Mars in 2011-2012. A set of ICME events has been selected during the periods when Earth (or STEREO A or B) and MSL locations were nearly aligned on the same side of the Sun in the ecliptic plane (so-called opposition phase). Such lineups allow us to estimate the ICMEs' transit times between 1 AU and the MSL location by estimating the delay time of the corresponding Forbush decreases measured at each location. We investigate the evolution of their propagation speeds after passing Earth's orbit and find that the deceleration of ICMEs due to their interaction with the ambient solar wind continues beyond 1 AU. The results are compared to simulation data obtained from two CME propagation models, namely the Drag-Based Model (DBM) and the WSA-ENLIL plus cone model.

Measurements of Forbush decreases at Mars: both by MSL on ground and by MAVEN in orbit

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guo, J.; Lillis, R. J.; Wimmer-Schweingruber, R. F.; Posner, A.; Halekas, J. S.; Zeitlin, C.; Hassler, D.; Lundt, N.; Simonson, P.; Lee, C. O.; Appel, J. K.; Boehm, E.; Boettcher, S. I.; Burmeister, S.; Brinza, D. E.; Cucinotta, F.; Ehresmann, B.; Lohf, H.; Martin-Garcia, C.; Matthiae, D.; Rafkin, S. C.; Reitz, G.; weigle, G., II

2017-12-01

The Radiation Assessment Detector (RAD), on board Mars Science Laboratory's (MSL) rover Curiosity, has been measuring the ground level particle fluxes along with the radiation dose rate at the surface of Mars since August 2012. Similar to neutron monitors at Earth, RAD sees many Forbush decreases (FDs) in the galactic cosmic ray (GCR) induced surface fluxes and dose rates. These FDs are associated with coronal mass ejections (CMEs) and/or streaming/corotating interaction regions (SIRs/CIRs). Orbiting above the Martian atmosphere, the Mars Atmosphere and Volatile EvolutioN (MAVEN) spacecraft has also been monitoring space weather conditions at Mars since its arrival in September 2014. The penetrating particle flux channel in the Solar Energetic Particle (SEP) instrument aboard can also be employed to detect FDs. For the first time, we study the statistics and properties of a list of FDs observed in-situ at Mars, seen both on the surface by MSL/RAD and in orbit detected by the MAVEN/SEP instrument. Such a list of FDs can be used for studying ICME propagations and SIR evolutions through the inner-heliosphere. The magnitudes of different FDs can be well-fitted by a power-law distribution. The systematic difference between the magnitudes of the FDs within and outside the Martian atmosphere may be attributed to the energy-dependent modulation of the GCR particles by not only the pass-by ICMEs/SIRs but also the Martian atmosphere. Such an effect has been modeled via transporting particles of differently modulated GCR spectra through the Martian atmosphere.

Fractal Dimension of EEG Activity Senses Neuronal Impairment in Acute Stroke

PubMed Central

Zappasodi, Filippo; Olejarczyk, Elzbieta; Marzetti, Laura; Assenza, Giovanni; Pizzella, Vittorio; Tecchio, Franca

2014-01-01

The brain is a self-organizing system which displays self-similarities at different spatial and temporal scales. Thus, the complexity of its dynamics, associated to efficient processing and functional advantages, is expected to be captured by a measure of its scale-free (fractal) properties. Under the hypothesis that the fractal dimension (FD) of the electroencephalographic signal (EEG) is optimally sensitive to the neuronal dysfunction secondary to a brain lesion, we tested the FD’s ability in assessing two key processes in acute stroke: the clinical impairment and the recovery prognosis. Resting EEG was collected in 36 patients 4–10 days after a unilateral ischemic stroke in the middle cerebral artery territory and 19 healthy controls. National Health Institute Stroke Scale (NIHss) was collected at T0 and 6 months later. Highuchi FD, its inter-hemispheric asymmetry (FDasy) and spectral band powers were calculated for EEG signals. FD was smaller in patients than in controls (1.447±0.092 vs 1.525±0.105) and its reduction was paired to a worse acute clinical status. FD decrease was associated to alpha increase and beta decrease of oscillatory activity power. Larger FDasy in acute phase was paired to a worse clinical recovery at six months. FD in our patients captured the loss of complexity reflecting the global system dysfunction resulting from the structural damage. This decrease seems to reveal the intimate nature of structure-function unity, where the regional neural multi-scale self-similar activity is impaired by the anatomical lesion. This picture is coherent with neuronal activity complexity decrease paired to a reduced repertoire of functional abilities. FDasy result highlights the functional relevance of the balance between homologous brain structures’ activities in stroke recovery. PMID:24967904

Histone deacetylation contributes to low extracellular superoxide dismutase expression in human idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension

PubMed Central

Woods, Crystal; Stearman, Robert S.; Venkataraman, Sujatha; Ferguson, Bradley S.; Swain, Kalin; Bowler, Russell P.; Geraci, Mark W.; Ihida-Stansbury, Kaori; Stenmark, Kurt R.; McKinsey, Timothy A.; Domann, Frederick E.

2016-01-01

Epigenetic mechanisms, including DNA methylation and histone acetylation, regulate gene expression in idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension (IPAH). These mechanisms can modulate expression of extracellular superoxide dismutase (SOD3 or EC-SOD), a key vascular antioxidant enzyme, and loss of vascular SOD3 worsens outcomes in animal models of pulmonary arterial hypertension. We hypothesized that SOD3 gene expression is decreased in patients with IPAH due to aberrant DNA methylation and/or histone deacetylation. We used lung tissue and pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (PASMC) from subjects with IPAH at transplantation and from failed donors (FD). Lung SOD3 mRNA expression and activity was decreased in IPAH vs. FD. In contrast, mitochondrial SOD (Mn-SOD or SOD2) protein expression was unchanged and intracellular SOD activity was unchanged. Using bisulfite sequencing in genomic lung or PASMC DNA, we found the methylation status of the SOD3 promoter was similar between FD and IPAH. Furthermore, treatment with 5-aza-2′-deoxycytidine did not increase PASMC SOD3 mRNA, suggesting DNA methylation was not responsible for PASMC SOD3 expression. Though total histone deacetylase (HDAC) activity, histone acetyltransferase (HAT) activity, acetylated histones, and acetylated SP1 were similar between IPAH and FD, treatment with two selective class I HDAC inhibitors increased SOD3 only in IPAH PASMC. Class I HDAC3 siRNA also increased SOD3 expression. Trichostatin A, a pan-HDAC inhibitor, decreased proliferation in IPAH, but not in FD PASMC. These data indicate that histone deacetylation, specifically via class I HDAC3, decreases SOD3 expression in PASMC and HDAC inhibitors may protect IPAH in part by increasing PASMC SOD3 expression. PMID:27233998

Evaluation of Central and Peripheral Fatigue in the Quadriceps Using Fractal Dimension and Conduction Velocity in Young Females

PubMed Central

Beretta-Piccoli, Matteo; D’Antona, Giuseppe; Barbero, Marco; Fisher, Beth; Dieli-Conwright, Christina M.; Clijsen, Ron; Cescon, Corrado

2015-01-01

Purpose Over the past decade, linear and non-linear surface electromyography descriptors for central and peripheral components of fatigue have been developed. In the current study, we tested fractal dimension (FD) and conduction velocity (CV) as myoelectric descriptors of central and peripheral fatigue, respectively. To this aim, we analyzed FD and CV slopes during sustained fatiguing contractions of the quadriceps femoris in healthy humans. Methods A total of 29 recreationally active women (mean age±standard deviation: 24±4 years) and two female elite athletes (one power athlete, age 24 and one endurance athlete, age 30 years) performed two knee extensions: (1) at 20% maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) for 30 s, and (2) at 60% MVC held until exhaustion. Surface EMG signals were detected from the vastus lateralis and vastus medialis using bidimensional arrays. Results Central and peripheral fatigue were described as decreases in FD and CV, respectively. A positive correlation between FD and CV (R=0.51, p<0.01) was found during the sustained 60% MVC, probably as a result of simultaneous motor unit synchronization and a decrease in muscle fiber CV during the fatiguing task. Conclusions Central and peripheral fatigue can be described as changes in FD and CV, at least in young, healthy women. The significant correlation between FD and CV observed at 60% MVC suggests that a mutual interaction between central and peripheral fatigue can arise during submaximal isometric contractions. PMID:25880369

The effect of CPAP treatment on EEG of OSAS patients.

PubMed

Zhang, Cheng; Lv, Jun; Zhou, Junhong; Su, Li; Feng, Liping; Ma, Jing; Wang, Guangfa; Zhang, Jue

2015-12-01

Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is currently the most effective treatment method for obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS). The purpose of this study was to compare the sleep electroencephalogram (EEG) changes before and after the application of CPAP to OSAS patients. A retrospective study was conducted and 45 sequential patients who received both polysomnography (PSG) and CPAP titration were included. The raw data of sleep EEG were extracted and analyzed by engineers using two main factors: fractal dimension (FD) and the zero-crossing rate of detrended FD (zDFD). FD was an effective indicator reflecting the EEG complexity and zDFD was useful to reflect the variability of the EEG complexity. The FD and zDFD indexes of sleep EEG of 45 OSAS patients before and after CPAP titration were analyzed. The age of 45 OSAS patients was 52.7 ± 5.6 years old and the patients include 12 females and 33 males. After CPAP treatment, FD of EEG in non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep decreased significantly (P < 0.05), while FD of EEG increased in rapid eye movement (REM) sleep (P < 0.05). Meanwhile, zDFD were decreased remarkably in both NREM and REM sleep after CPAP therapy (P < 0.05, respectively). CPAP therapy had a significant influence on sleep EEG in patients with OSAHS, which lead to a more stable EEG pattern. This may be one of the mechanisms that CPAP could improve sleep quality and brain function of OSAS patients.

Amino acid residues in Anabaena ferredoxin crucial to interaction with ferredoxin-NADP+ reductase: site-directed mutagenesis and laser flash photolysis.

PubMed

Hurley, J K; Salamon, Z; Meyer, T E; Fitch, J C; Cusanovich, M A; Markley, J L; Cheng, H; Xia, B; Chae, Y K; Medina, M

1993-09-14

Ferredoxin (Fd) functions in photosynthesis to transfer electrons from photosystem I to ferredoxin-NADP+ reductase (FNR). We have made several site-directed mutants of Anabaena 7120 Fd and have used laser flash photolysis to investigate the effects of these mutations on the kinetics of reduction of oxidized Fd by deazariboflavin semiquinone (dRfH.) and the reduction of oxidized Anabaena FNR by reduced Fd. None of the mutations influenced the second-order rate constant for dRfH. reduction by more than a factor of 2, suggesting that the ability of the [2Fe-2S] cluster to participate in electron transfer was not seriously affected. In contrast, a surface charge reversal mutation, E94K, resulted in a 20,000-fold decrease in the second-order rate constant for electron transfer from Fd to FNR, whereas a similar mutation at an adjacent site, E95K, produced little or no change in reaction rate constant compared to wild-type Fd. Such a dramatic difference between contiguous surface mutations suggests a very precise surface complementarity at the protein-protein interface. Mutations introduced at F65 (F65I and F65A) also decreased the rate constant for the Fd/FNR electron transfer reaction by more than 3 orders of magnitude. Spectroscopic and thermodynamic measurements with both the E94 and F65 mutants indicated that the kinetic differences cannot be ascribed to changes in gross conformation, redox potential, or FNR binding constant but rather reflect the protein-protein interactions that control electron transfer. Several mutations at other sites in the vicinity of E94 and F65 (R42, T48, D68, and D69) resulted in little or no perturbation of the Fd/FNR interaction.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Folate deprivation induces cell cycle arrest at G0/G1 phase and apoptosis in hippocampal neuron cells through down-regulation of IGF-1 signaling pathway.

PubMed

Yang, Yang; Li, Xi; Sun, Qinwei; He, Bin; Jia, Yimin; Cai, Demin; Zhao, Ruqian

2016-10-01

Folate deficiency contributes to impaired adult hippocampal neurogenesis, yet the mechanisms remain unclear. Here we use HT-22 hippocampal neuron cells as model to investigate the effect of folate deprivation (FD) on cell proliferation and apoptosis, and to elucidate the underlying mechanism. FD caused cell cycle arrest at G0/G1 phase and increased the rate of apoptosis, which was associated with disrupted expression of folate transport and methyl transfer genes. FOLR1 and SLC46A1 were (P<0.01) down-regulated, while SLC19A1 was up-regulated (P<0.01) in FD group. FD cells exhibited significantly (P<0.05) higher protein content of BHMT, MAT2b and DNMT3a, as well as increased SAM/SAH concentrations and global DNA hypermethylation. The expression of the total and all the 3 classes of IGF-1 mRNA variants was significantly (P<0.01) down-regulated and IGF-1 concentration was decreased (P<0.05) in the culture media. IGF-1 signaling pathway was also compromised with diminished activation (P<0.05) of STAT3, AKT and mTOR. CpG hypermethylation was detected in the promoter regions of IGF-1 and FOLR1 genes, while higher SLC19A1 mRNA corresponded to hypomethylation of its promoter. IGF-1 supplementation in FD media significantly abolished FD-induced decrease in cell viability. However, IGF-1 had limited effect in rescuing the cell phenotype when added 24h after FD. Taken together, down-regulation of IGF-1 expression and signaling is involved in FD-induced cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in HT-22 hippocampal neuron cells, which is associated with an abnormal activation of methyl transfer pathway and hypermethylation of IGF-1 gene promoter. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Anatomically related gray and white matter alterations in the brains of functional dyspepsia patients.

PubMed

Nan, J; Liu, J; Mu, J; Zhang, Y; Zhang, M; Tian, J; Liang, F; Zeng, F

2015-06-01

Previous studies summarized altered brain functional patterns in functional dyspepsia (FD) patients, but how the brain structural patterns are related to FD remains largely unclear. The objective of this study was to determine the brain structural characteristics in FD patients. Optimized voxel-based morphometry and tract-based spatial statistics were employed to investigate the changes in gray matter (GM) and white matter (WM) respectively in 34 FD patients with postprandial distress syndrome and 33 healthy controls based on T1-weighted and diffusion-weighted imaging. The Pearson's correlation evaluated the link among GM alterations, WM abnormalities, and clinical variables in FD patients. The optimal brain structural parameters for identifying FD were explored using the receiver operating characteristic curve. Compared to controls, FD patients exhibited a decrease in GM density (GMD) in the right posterior insula/temporal superior cortex (marked as pINS), right inferior frontal cortex (IFC), and left middle cingulate cortex, and an increase in fractional anisotropy (FA) in the posterior limb of the internal capsule, posterior thalamic radiation, and external capsule (EC). Interestingly, the GMD in the pINS was significantly associated with GMD in the IFC and FA in the EC. Moreover, the EC adjacent to the pINS provided the best performance for distinguishing FD patients from controls. Our results showed pINS-related structural abnormalities in FD patients, indicating that GM and WM parameters were not affected independently. These findings would lay the foundation for probing an efficient target in the brain for treating FD. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Financial distress in patients with advanced cancer

PubMed Central

Brosse, Christelle; Rhondali, Wadih; Ruer, Murielle; Monsarrat, Léa; Michaud, Patrick; Schott, Anne Marie; Delgado-Guay, Marvin; Bruera, Eduardo; Sanchez, Stéphane; Filbet, Marilène

2017-01-01

Purpose We examined the frequency and severity of financial distress (FD) and its association with quality of life (QOL) and symptoms among patients with advanced cancer in France. Design In this cross-sectional study, 143 patients with advanced cancer were enrolled. QOL was assessed using the Functional Assessment of Cancer General (FACT-G) and symptoms assessed using Edmonton Assessment System (ESAS) and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). FD was assessed using a self-rated numeric scale from 0 to 10. Results Seventy-three (51%) patients reported having FD. Patients reported having FD were most likely to be younger (53.8 (16,7SD) versus 62 (10.5SD), p<0.001), single (33 (62%) versus 40(44%), p = 0.03) and had a breast cancer (26 (36%), p = 0.024). Patients with FD had a lower FACT-G score (59 versus 70, p = 0.005). FD decreased physical (14 versus 18, p = 0.008), emotional (14 versus 16, p = 0.008), social wellbeing (17 versus 19, p = 0.04). Patients with FD had higher HADS-D (8 versus 6 p = 0.007) and HADS-A (9 versus 7, p = 0.009) scores. FD was linked to increased ESAS score (59 (18SD) versus 67 (18SD), p = 0.005) and spiritual suffering (22(29SD) versus 13(23SD), p = 0.045). Conclusion The high rate of patient-reported FD was unexpected in our studied population, as the French National Health Insurance covers specific cancer treatments. The FD was associated with a poorer quality of life. Having a systematic assessment, with a simple tool, should lead to future research on interventions that will increase patients’ QOL. PMID:28545063

Financial distress in patients with advanced cancer.

PubMed

Barbaret, Cécile; Brosse, Christelle; Rhondali, Wadih; Ruer, Murielle; Monsarrat, Léa; Michaud, Patrick; Schott, Anne Marie; Delgado-Guay, Marvin; Bruera, Eduardo; Sanchez, Stéphane; Filbet, Marilène

2017-01-01

We examined the frequency and severity of financial distress (FD) and its association with quality of life (QOL) and symptoms among patients with advanced cancer in France. In this cross-sectional study, 143 patients with advanced cancer were enrolled. QOL was assessed using the Functional Assessment of Cancer General (FACT-G) and symptoms assessed using Edmonton Assessment System (ESAS) and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). FD was assessed using a self-rated numeric scale from 0 to 10. Seventy-three (51%) patients reported having FD. Patients reported having FD were most likely to be younger (53.8 (16,7SD) versus 62 (10.5SD), p<0.001), single (33 (62%) versus 40(44%), p = 0.03) and had a breast cancer (26 (36%), p = 0.024). Patients with FD had a lower FACT-G score (59 versus 70, p = 0.005). FD decreased physical (14 versus 18, p = 0.008), emotional (14 versus 16, p = 0.008), social wellbeing (17 versus 19, p = 0.04). Patients with FD had higher HADS-D (8 versus 6 p = 0.007) and HADS-A (9 versus 7, p = 0.009) scores. FD was linked to increased ESAS score (59 (18SD) versus 67 (18SD), p = 0.005) and spiritual suffering (22(29SD) versus 13(23SD), p = 0.045). The high rate of patient-reported FD was unexpected in our studied population, as the French National Health Insurance covers specific cancer treatments. The FD was associated with a poorer quality of life. Having a systematic assessment, with a simple tool, should lead to future research on interventions that will increase patients' QOL.

Understanding global patterns of mammalian functional and phylogenetic diversity

PubMed Central

Safi, Kamran; Cianciaruso, Marcus V.; Loyola, Rafael D.; Brito, Daniel; Armour-Marshall, Katrina; Diniz-Filho, José Alexandre F.

2011-01-01

Documenting and exploring the patterns of diversity of life on Earth has always been a central theme in biology. Species richness despite being the most commonly used measure of diversity in macroecological studies suffers from not considering the evolutionary and ecological differences among species. Phylogenetic diversity (PD) and functional diversity (FD) have been proposed as alternative measures to overcome this limitation. Although species richness, PD and FD are closely related, their relationships have never been investigated on a global scale. Comparing PD and FD with species richness corroborated the general assumptions of surrogacy of the different diversity measures. However, the analysis of the residual variance suggested that the mismatches between the diversity measures are influenced by environmental conditions. PD increased relative to species richness with increasing mean annual temperature, whereas FD decreased with decreasing seasonality relative to PD. We also show that the tropical areas are characterized by a FD deficit, a phenomenon, that suggests that in tropical areas more species can be packed into the ecological space. We discuss potential mechanisms that could have resulted in the gradient of spatial mismatch observed in the different biodiversity measures and draw parallels to local scale studies. We conclude that the use of multiple diversity measures on a global scale can help to elucidate the relative importance of historical and ecological processes shaping the present gradients in mammalian diversity. PMID:21807734

Assessing severity of obstructive sleep apnea by fractal dimension sequence analysis of sleep EEG

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, J.; Yang, X. C.; Luo, L.; Shao, J.; Zhang, C.; Ma, J.; Wang, G. F.; Liu, Y.; Peng, C.-K.; Fang, J.

2009-10-01

Different sleep stages are associated with distinct dynamical patterns in EEG signals. In this article, we explored the relationship between the sleep architecture and fractal dimension (FD) of sleep EEG. In particular, we applied the FD analysis to the sleep EEG of patients with obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS), which is characterized by recurrent oxyhemoglobin desaturation and arousals from sleep, a disease which received increasing public attention due to its significant potential impact on health. We showed that the variation of FD reflects the macrostructure of sleep. Furthermore, the fast fluctuation of FD, as measured by the zero-crossing rate of detrended FD (zDFD), is a useful indicator of sleep disturbance, and therefore, correlates with apnea-hypopnea index (AHI), and hourly number of blood oxygen saturation (SpO 2) decreases greater than 4%, as obstructive apnea/hypopnea disturbs sleep architecture. For practical purpose, a modified index combining zDFD of EEG and body mass index (BMI) may be useful for evaluating the severity of OSAHS symptoms.

Comparative study of flux of FITC-labeled Dextran 4000 on normal (iso)- and hyper-osmolarity in basal side in caco-2 cell monolayers.

PubMed

Ohkubo, Rie; Tomita, Mikio; Hotta, Yoshiyuki; Nagira, Mayuko; Hayashi, Masahiro

2003-01-01

We have shown previously that the flux of fluorescein isothiocyanate dextran 4000 (FD-4) is transported across the Caco-2 cell monolayers in a polarized fashion favoring the basal to apical direction under normal conditions (i.e., isotonic solution in basal side). Furthermore, FD-4 transport may occur via a process that included a certain degree of substrate specificity for polysaccharide and transcytosis. In the present study, we compared the flux of FD-4 in the basal to apical direction (efflux) and the apical to basal direction (influx) in stress conditions (i.e., hyperosmolarity in basal side) to those in normal conditions (i.e., iso-osmolarity in basal side). The efflux of FD-4 was increased by hyperosmolarity in basal side, but the influx was decreased when compared with normal conditions. Neither dextran 10, 000 nor colchicine inhibited the efflux of FD-4 in hyperosmolarity conditions. The inhibition of efflux of FD-4 was observed not by S-nitroso-N-acetylpenicillamine but by sodium nitroprusside and sodium ferrocyanide. These results collectively suggest that hyperosmolarity in basal side accelerates the efflux of FD-4 across the transcellular route but not across the paracellular route in Caco-2 cell monolayers. And it is indicated that cyanide rather than nitric oxide is involved in dysfunction of the FD-4 efflux system irrespective of conditions such as normal osmolarity or hyperosmolarity.

Dexmedetomidine for Refractory Adrenergic Crisis in Familial Dysautonomia

PubMed Central

Dillon, Ryan C.; Palma, Jose-Alberto; Spalink, Christy L.; Altshuler, Diana; Norcliffe-Kaufmann, Lucy; Fridman, David; Papadopoulos, John; Kaufmann, Horacio

2016-01-01

Objective Adrenergic crises are a cardinal feature of familial dysautonomia (FD). Traditionally, adrenergic crisis have been treated with the sympatholytic agent clonidine or with benzodiazepines, which can cause excessive sedation and respiratory depression. Dexmedetomidine is an α2A-adrenergic agonist with greater selectivity and shorter half-life than clonidine. We aimed to evaluate the preliminary effectiveness and safety of intravenous dexmedetomidine in the treatment of refractory adrenergic crisis in patients with FD. Methods Retrospective chart review of patients with genetically confirmed FD who received intravenous dexmedetomidine for refractory adrenergic crises. The primary outcome was preliminary effectiveness of dexmedetomidine defined as change in blood pressure (BP) and heart rate (HR) 1-hour after the initiation of dexmedetomidine. Secondary outcomes included incidence of adverse events related to dexmedetomidine, hospital and intensive care unit (ICU) length of stay, and hemodynamic parameters 12-hours after dexmedetomidine cessation. Results Nine patients over 14 admissions were included in the final analysis. At 1-hour after the initiation of dexmedetomidine, systolic BP decreased from 160±7 to 122±7 mmHg (p=0.0005), diastolic BP decreased from 103±6 to 65±8 (p=0.0003), and HR decreased from 112±4 to 100±5 bpm (p=0.0047). The median total adverse events during dexmedetomidine infusion was 1 per admission. Median hospital length of stay was 9 days (IQR, 3 – 11 days) and median ICU length of stay was 7 days (IQR, 3 – 11 days). Conclusions Intravenous dexmedetomidine is safe in patients with FD and appears to be effective to treat refractory adrenergic crisis. Dexmedetomidine may be considered in FD patients who do not respond to conventional clonidine and benzodiazepine pharmacotherapy. PMID:27752785

Comparison of left atrial size and function in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and in Fabry disease with left ventricular hypertrophy.

PubMed

Saccheri, María Cristina; Cianciulli, Tomás Francisco; Challapa Licidio, Wilde; Lax, Jorge A; Beck, Martín A; Morita, Luis A; Gagliardi, Juan A

2018-05-01

Fabry disease (FD) and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) are two diseases with a different pathophysiology, both cause left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) and myocardial fibrosis. Although remodeling and systolic dysfunction of the left atrium (LA) are associated with atrial fibrillation and stroke in HCM, changes in the size and function of the LA have not been well studied in FD with LVH. The following groups were studied prospectively, and their respective findings compared: 19 patients with non-obstructive HCM (Group I), 20 patients with a diagnosis of Fabry cardiomyopathy (Group II), and 20 normal subjects matched for sex and age (Group III). Left ventricular mass index was measured using Devereux' formula, left atrial volume with Simpson's biplane method and left atrial mechanical function, including strain and strain rate, was measured using the speckle tracking technique. Strain and strain rate of the reservoir were measured during the three phases: reservoir (SR S), passive conduit (SR E) and atrial contraction (SR A). Patients with HCM had a larger left atrial volume than patients with FD (48.16 ± 14.3 mL/m 2 vs 38.9 ± 14.9 mL/m 2 respectively, P < .001), but in both disorders there was a severe decrease in left atrial function: reservoir strain in the apical four-chamber view: 17.47% in HCM vs 22.5% in FD, P = .24), strain rate in the apical chamber view: SR A: -0.80/seconds in HCM vs -1.04/seconds in FD (P = .88), SR S: 0.69/seconds in HCM vs 0.93 in FD (P = .12), SR E: -0.80 seconds in HCM vs -0.97/seconds in FD (P = .18). In this echocardiographic study we used speckle tracking to assess left atrial mechanical function and showed that FD is associated to an atrial cardiomyopathy, affecting the three phasic functions of the LA. Although in patients with HCM left atrial volume is larger than in patients with FD, both disorders exhibit severe decrease in left atrial function. These findings should be considered, given the potentially serious complications that can occur with the two diseases. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

MicroRNA screening identifies a link between NOVA1 expression and a low level of IKAP in familial dysautonomia

PubMed Central

Hervé, Mylène

2016-01-01

ABSTRACT Familial dysautonomia (FD) is a rare neurodegenerative disease caused by a mutation in intron 20 of the IKBKAP gene (c.2204+6T>C), leading to tissue-specific skipping of exon 20 and a decrease in the synthesis of the encoded protein IKAP (also known as ELP1). Small non-coding RNAs known as microRNAs (miRNAs) are important post-transcriptional regulators of gene expression and play an essential role in the nervous system development and function. To better understand the neuronal specificity of IKAP loss, we examined expression of miRNAs in human olfactory ecto-mesenchymal stem cells (hOE-MSCs) from five control individuals and five FD patients. We profiled the expression of 373 miRNAs using microfluidics and reverse transcription coupled to quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) on two biological replicate series of hOE-MSC cultures from healthy controls and FD patients. This led to the total identification of 26 dysregulated miRNAs in FD, validating the existence of a miRNA signature in FD. We then selected the nine most discriminant miRNAs for further analysis. The signaling pathways affected by these dysregulated miRNAs were largely within the nervous system. In addition, many targets of these dysregulated miRNAs had been previously demonstrated to be affected in FD models. Moreover, we found that four of our nine candidate miRNAs target the neuron-specific splicing factor NOVA1. We demonstrated that overexpression of miR-203a-3p leads to a decrease of NOVA1, counter-balanced by an increase of IKAP, supporting a potential interaction between NOVA1 and IKAP. Taken together, these results reinforce the choice of miRNAs as potential therapeutic targets and suggest that NOVA1 could be a regulator of FD pathophysiology. PMID:27483351

NESS038C6, a novel selective CB1 antagonist agent with anti-obesity activity and improved molecular profile.

PubMed

Mastinu, Andrea; Pira, Marilena; Pani, Luca; Pinna, Gérard Aimè; Lazzari, Paolo

2012-10-01

The present work aims to study the effects induced by a chronic treatment with a novel CB1 antagonist (NESS038C6) in C57BL/6N diet-induced obesity (DIO) mice. Mice treated with NESS038C6 and fed with a fat diet (NESS038C6 FD) were compared with the following three reference experimental groups: DIO mice fed with the same fat diet used for NESS038C6 and treated with vehicle or the reference CB1 antagonist/inverse agonist rimonabant, "VH FD" and "SR141716 FD", respectively; DIO mice treated with vehicle and switched to a normal diet (VH ND). NESS038C6 chronic treatment (30 mg/kg/day for 31 days) determined a significant reduction in DIO mice weight relative to that of VH FD. The entity of the effect was comparable to that detected in both SR141716 FD and VH ND groups. Moreover, if compared to VH FD, NESS038C6 FD evidenced: (i) improvement of cardiovascular risk factors; (ii) significant decrease in adipose tissue leptin expression; (iii) increase in mRNA expression of hypothalamic orexigenic peptides and a decrease of anorexigenic peptides; (iv) expression increase of metabolic enzymes and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-α in the liver; (v) normalization of monoaminergic transporters and neurotrophic expression in mesolimbic area. However, in contrast to the case of rimonabant, the novel CB1 antagonist improved the disrupted expression profile of genes linked to the hunger-satiety circuit, without altering monoaminergic transmission. In conclusion, the novel CB1 antagonist compound NESS038C6 may represent a useful candidate agent for the treatment of obesity and its metabolic complications, without or with reduced side effects relative to those instead observed with rimonabant. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Cosmic ray variations of solar origin in relation to human physiological state during the December 2006 solar extreme events

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Papailiou, M.; Mavromichalaki, H.; Vassilaki, A.; Kelesidis, K. M.; Mertzanos, G. A.; Petropoulos, B.

2009-02-01

There is an increasing amount of evidence linking biological effects to solar and geomagnetic disturbances. A series of studies is published referring to the changes in human physiological responses at different levels of geomagnetic activity. In this study, the possible relation between the daily variations of cosmic ray intensity, measured by the Neutron Monitor at the Cosmic Ray Station of the University of Athens (http://cosray.phys.uoa.gr) and the average daily and hourly heart rate variations of persons, with no symptoms or hospital admission, monitored by Holter electrocardiogram, is considered. This work refers to a group of persons admitted to the cardiological clinic of the KAT Hospital in Athens during the time period from 4th to 24th December 2006 that is characterized by extreme solar and geomagnetic activity. A series of Forbush decreases started on 6th December and lasted until the end of the month and a great solar proton event causing a Ground Level Enhancement (GLE) of the cosmic ray intensity on 13th December occurred. A sudden decrease of the cosmic ray intensity on 15th December, when a geomagnetic storm was registered, was also recorded in Athens Neutron Monitor station (cut-off rigidity 8.53 GV) with amplitude of 4%. It is noticed that during geomagnetically quiet days the heart rate and the cosmic ray intensity variations are positively correlated. When intense cosmic ray variations, like Forbush decreases and relativistic proton events produced by strong solar phenomena occur, cosmic ray intensity and heart rate get minimum values and their variations, also, coincide. During these events the correlation coefficient of these two parameters changes and follows the behavior of the cosmic ray intensity variations. This is only a small part of an extended investigation, which has begun using data from the year 2002 and is still in progress.

CD77 levels over enzyme replacement treatment in Fabry Disease Family (V269M).

PubMed

Pereira, Ester Miranda; Silva, Adalberto Socorro da; Silva, Raimundo Nonato da; Monte Neto, José Tiburcio; Nascimento, Fernando F do; Sousa, Jackeline L M; Costa Filho, Henrique César Saraiva de Arêa Leão; Sales Filho, Herton Luiz Alves; Labilloy, Anatalia; Monte, Semiramis Jamil Hadad do

2018-06-04

Fabry disease (FD) is a disorder caused by mutations in the gene encoding for lysosomal enzyme α-galactosidase A (α-GAL). Reduced α-GAL activity leads to progressive accumulation of globotriaosylceramide (Gb3), also known as CD77. The recent report of increased expression of CD77 in blood cells of patients with FD indicated that this molecule can be used as a potential marker for monitoring enzyme replacement therapy (ERT). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the CD77 levels throughout ERT in FD patients (V269M mutation). We evaluated the fluctuations in PBMC (peripheral blood mononuclear cell) membrane CD77 expression in FD patients undergoing ERT and correlated these levels with those observed in different cell types. A greater CD77 expression was found in phagocytes of patients compared to controls at baseline. Interestingly, the variability in CD77 levels is larger in patients at baseline (340 - 1619 MIF) and after 12 months of ERT (240 - 530 MIF) compared with the control group (131 - 331 MFI). Furthermore, by analyzing the levels of CD77 in phagocytes from patients throughout ERT, we found a constant decrease in CD77 levels. The increased CD77 levels in the phagocytes of Fabry carriers together with the decrease in CD77 levels throughout ERT suggest that measuring CD77 levels in phagocytes is a promising tool for monitoring the response to ERT in FD.

Modeling EEG fractal dimension changes in wake and drowsy states in humans--a preliminary study.

PubMed

Bojić, Tijana; Vuckovic, Aleksandra; Kalauzi, Aleksandar

2010-01-21

Aim of this preliminary study was to examine and compare topographic distribution of Higuchi's fractal dimension (FD, measure of signal complexity) of EEG signals between states of relaxed wakefulness and drowsiness, as well as their FD differences. The experiments were performed on 10 healthy individuals using a fourteen-channel montage. An explanation is offered on the causes of the detected FD changes. FD values of 60s records belonging to wake (Hori's stage 1) and drowsy (Hori's stages 2-4) states were calculated for each channel and each subject. In 136 out of 140 epochs an increase in FD was obtained. Relationship between signal FD and its relative alpha amplitude was mathematically modeled and we quantitatively demonstrated that the increase in FD was predominantly due to a reduction in alpha activity. The model was generalized to include other EEG oscillations. By averaging FD values for each channel across 10 subjects, four clusters (O2O1; T6P4T5P3; C3F3F4C4F8F7; T4T3) for the wake and two clusters (O2O1P3T6P4T5; C3C4F4F3F8T4T3F7) for the drowsy state were statistically verified. Topographic distribution of FD values in wakefulness showed a lateral symmetry and a partial fronto-occipital gradient. In drowsiness, a reduction in the number of clusters was detected, due to regrouping of channels T3, T4, O1 and O2. Topographic distribution of absolute FD differences revealed largest values at F7, O1 and F3. Reorganization of channel clusters showed that regionalized brain activity, specific for wakefulness, became more global by entering into drowsiness. Since the global increase in FD during wake-to-drowsy transition correlated with the decrease of alpha power, we inferred that increase of EEG complexity may not necessarily be an index of brain activation.

Improved respirable fraction of budesonide powder for dry powder inhaler formulations produced by advanced supercritical CO2 processing and use of a novel additive.

PubMed

Miyazaki, Yuta; Aruga, Naoki; Kadota, Kazunori; Tozuka, Yuichi; Takeuchi, Hirofumi

2017-08-07

A budesonide (BDS) suspension was obtained via advanced supercritical carbon dioxide (scCO 2 ) processing. Thereafter, the suspension was freeze-dried (FD) to produce BDS particles for dry powder inhaler formulations (scCO 2 /FD processing). The scCO 2 /FD processed BDS powder showed low crystallinity by powder X-ray diffraction and a rough surface by scanning electron microscopy. The respirable fraction of BDS was assessed using a twin impinger and revealed that the amount of the scCO 2 /FD processed sample that reached stage 2 was 4-fold higher than that of the supplied powder. To extend the utility of scCO 2 processing, BDS particles for dry powder inhalers were fabricated by combining the scCO 2 system with various additives. When BDS was processed via scCO 2 /FD in the presence of the novel additive, namely, monoglyceride stearate (MGS), the residual BDS/MGS particles remaining in the capsule and devices decreased, followed by an increase in the respirable fraction of BDS 6-fold higher than with the supplied powder. The scCO 2 /FD processed BDS/MGS particles had a smooth surface, in contrast to the scCO 2 /FD processed BDS particles. A combination of BDS and an appropriate additive in scCO 2 treatment may induce changes in particle surface morphology, leading to an improvement in the inhalation properties of BDS. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Fractal dimension and lacunarity analysis of mammographic patterns in assessing breast cancer risk related to HRT treated population: a longitudinal and cross-sectional study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Karemore, Gopal; Nielsen, Mads

2009-02-01

Structural texture measures are used to address the aspect of breast cancer risk assessment in screening mammograms. The current study investigates whether texture properties characterized by local Fractal Dimension (FD) and Lacunarity contribute to asses breast cancer risk. FD represents the complexity while the Lacunarity characterize the gappiness of a fractal. Our cross-sectional case-control study includes mammograms of 50 patients diagnosed with breast cancer in the subsequent 2-4 years and 50 matched controls. The longitudinal double blind placebo controlled HRT study includes 39 placebo and 36 HRT treated volunteers for two years. ROIs with same dimension (250*150 pixels) were created behind the nipple region on these radiographs. Box counting method was used to calculate the fractal dimension (FD) and the Lacunarity. Paired t-test and Pearson correlation coefficient were calculated. It was found that there were no differences between cancer and control group for FD (P=0.8) and Lacunarity (P=0.8) in crosssectional study whereas earlier published heterogeneity examination of radiographs (BC-HER) breast cancer risk score separated groups (p=0.002). In the longitudinal study, FD decreased significantly (P<0.05) in the HRT treated population while Lacunarity remained insignificant (P=0.2). FD is negatively correlated to Lacunarity (-0.74, P<0.001), BIRADS (-0.34, P<0.001) and Percentage Density (-0.41, P<0.001). FD is invariant to the mammographic texture change from control to cancer population but marginally varying in HRT treated population. This study yields no evidence that lacunarity or FD are suitable surrogate markers of mammographic heterogeneity as they neither pick up breast cancer risk, nor show good sensitivity to HRT.

Tissue-Specific Reduction in Splicing Efficiency of IKBKAP Due to the Major Mutation Associated with Familial Dysautonomia

PubMed Central

Cuajungco, Math P.; Leyne, Maire; Mull, James; Gill, Sandra P.; Lu, Weining; Zagzag, David; Axelrod, Felicia B.; Maayan, Channa; Gusella, James F.; Slaugenhaupt, Susan A.

2003-01-01

We recently identified a mutation in the I-κB kinase associated protein (IKBKAP) gene as the major cause of familial dysautonomia (FD), a recessive sensory and autonomic neuropathy. This alteration, located at base pair 6 of the intron 20 donor splice site, is present on >99.5% of FD chromosomes and results in tissue-specific skipping of exon 20. A second FD mutation, a missense change in exon 19 (R696P), was seen in only four patients heterozygous for the major mutation. Here, we have further characterized the consequences of the major mutation by examining the ratio of wild-type to mutant (WT:MU) IKBKAP transcript in EBV-transformed lymphoblast lines, primary fibroblasts, freshly collected blood samples, and postmortem tissues from patients with FD. We consistently found that WT IKBKAP transcripts were present, albeit to varying extents, in all cell lines, blood, and postmortem FD tissues. Further, a corresponding decrease in the level of WT protein is seen in FD cell lines and tissues. The WT:MU ratio in cultured lymphoblasts varied with growth phase but not with serum concentration or inclusion of antibiotics. Using both densitometry and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction, we found that relative WT:MU IKBKAP RNA levels were highest in cultured patient lymphoblasts and lowest in postmortem central and peripheral nervous tissues. These observations suggest that the relative inefficiency of WT IKBKAP mRNA production from the mutant alleles in the nervous system underlies the selective degeneration of sensory and autonomic neurons in FD.Therefore, exploration of methods to increase the WT:MU IKBKAP transcript ratio in the nervous system offers a promising approach for developing an effective therapy for patients with FD. PMID:12577200

Fractal-dimension analysis detects cerebral changes in preterm infants with and without intrauterine growth restriction.

PubMed

Esteban, Francisco J; Padilla, Nelly; Sanz-Cortés, Magdalena; de Miras, Juan Ruiz; Bargalló, Núria; Villoslada, Pablo; Gratacós, Eduard

2010-12-01

In the search for a useful parameter to detect and quantify subtle brain abnormalities in infants with intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), we hypothesised that the analysis of the structural complexity of grey matter (GM) and white matter (WM) using the fractal dimension (FD), a measurement of the topological complexity of an object, could be established as a useful tool for quantitative studies of infant brain morphology. We studied a sample of 18 singleton IUGR premature infants, (12.72 months corrected age (CA), range: 12 months-14 months), 15 preterm infants matched one-to-one for gestational age (GA) at delivery (12.6 months; range: 12 months-14 months), and 15 neonates born at term (12.4 months; range: 11 months-14 months). The neurodevelopmental outcome was assessed in all subjects at 18 months CA according to the Bayley Scale for Infant and Toddler Development - Third edition (BSID-III). For MRI acquisition and processing, the infants were scanned at 12 months CA, in a TIM TRIO 3T scanner, sleeping naturally. Images were pre-processed using the SPM5 toolbox, the GM and WM segmented under the VBM5 toolbox, and the box-counting method was applied for FD calculation of normal and skeletonized segmented images. The results showed a significant decrease of the FD of the brain GM and WM in the IUGR group when compared to the preterm or at-term controls. We also identified a significant linear tendency of both GM and WM FD from IUGR to preterm and term groups. Finally, multiple linear analyses between the FD of the GM or WM and the neurodevelopmental scales showed a significant regression of the language and motor scales with the FD of the GM. In conclusion, a decreased FD of the GM and WM in IUGR infants could be a sensitive indicator for the investigation of structural brain abnormalities in the IUGR population at 12 months of age, which can also be related to functional disorders. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Combined Effects of Flow Diverting Strategies and Parent Artery Curvature on Aneurysmal Hemodynamics: A CFD Study

PubMed Central

Yu, Ying; Lv, Nan; Wang, Shengzhang; Karmonik, Christof; Liu, Jian-Min; Huang, Qinghai

2015-01-01

Purpose Flow diverters (FD) are increasingly being considered for treating large or giant wide-neck aneurysms. Clinical outcome is highly variable and depends on the type of aneurysm, the flow diverting device and treatment strategies. The objective of this study was to analyze the effect of different flow diverting strategies together with parent artery curvature variations on altering intra-aneurysmal hemodynamics. Methods Four ideal intracranial aneurysm models with different parent artery curvature were constructed. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations of the hemodynamics before and after applying five types of flow diverting strategies (single FD, single FD with 5% and 10% packing density of coils, two FDs with 25% and 50% overlapping rate) were performed. Changes in pressure, wall shear stress (WSS), relative residence time (RRT), inflow velocity and inflow volume rate were calculated and compared. Results Each flow diverting strategy resulted in enhancement of RRT and reduction of normalized mean WSS, inflow volume rate and inflow velocity in various levels. Among them, 50% overlapped FD induced most effective hemodynamic changes in RRT and inflow volume rate. The mean pressure only slightly decreased after treatment. Regardless of the kind of implantation of FD, the mean pressure, inflow volume rate and inflow velocity increased and the RRT decreased as the curvature of the parent artery increased. Conclusions Of all flow diverting strategies, overlapping FDs induced most favorable hemodynamic changes. Hemodynamics alterations post treatment were substantially influenced by parent artery curvature. Our results indicate the need of an individualized flow diverting strategy that is tailored for a specific aneurysm. PMID:26398847

Measuring Cerebral Hypoperfusion Induced by Hyperventilation Challenge With Intravoxel Incoherent Motion Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Healthy Volunteers.

PubMed

Pavilla, Aude; Arrigo, Alessandro; Mejdoubi, Mehdi; Duvauferrier, Régis; Gambarota, Giulio; Saint-Jalmes, Hervé

The aim of this study was to demonstrate the feasibility to assess cerebral hypoperfusion with a hyperventilation (HV) challenge protocol using intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) magnetic resonance imaging. Magnetic resonance imaging experiments were performed on 10 healthy volunteers at 1.5 T, with a diffusion IVIM magnetic resonance imaging protocol using a set of b-values optimized by Cramer-Rao Lower Bound analysis. Hypoperfusion was induced by an HV maneuver. Measurements were performed in normoventilation and HV conditions. Biexponential curve fitting was used to obtain the perfusion fraction (f), pseudodiffusion coefficient (D*), and the product fD* in gray matter (GM) regions of interest (ROIs). Regional cerebral blood flow in the same ROIs was also assessed with arterial spin labeling. The HV challenge led to a diminution of IVIM perfusion-related parameters, with a decrease of f and fD* in the cerebellum (P = 0.03 for f; P = 0.01 for fD*), thalamus GM (P = 0.09 for f; P = 0.01 for fD*), and lenticular nuclei (P = 0.03 for f; P = 0.02 for fD*). Mean GM cerebral blood flow (in mL/100 g tissue/min) measured with arterial spin labeling averaged over all ROIs also decreased (normoventilation: 42.7 ± 4.1 vs HV: 33.2 ± 2.2, P = 0.004) during the HV challenge. The optimized IVIM protocol proposed in the current study allows for measurements of cerebral hypoperfusion that might be of great interest for pathologies diagnosis such as ischemic stroke.

Interplanetary Coronal Mass Ejections During 1996 - 2007

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Richardson, I. G.; Cane, H. V.

2007-01-01

Interplanetary coronal mass ejections, the interplanetary counterparts of coronal mass ejections at the Sun, are the major drivers of interplanetary shocks in the heliosphere, and are associated with modulations of the galactic cosmic ray intensity, both short term (Forbush decreases caused by the passage of the shock, post-shock sheath, and ICME), and possibly with longer term modulation. Using several in-situ signatures of ICMEs, including plasma temperature, and composition, magnetic fields, and cosmic ray modulations, made by near-Earth spacecraft, we have compiled a "comprehensive" list of ICMEs passing the Earth since 1996, encompassing solar cycle 23. We summarize the properties of these ICMEs, such as their occurrence rate, speeds and other parameters, the fraction of ICMEs that are classic magnetic clouds, and their association with solar energetic particle events, halo CMEs, interplanetary shocks, geomagnetic storms, shocks and cosmic ray decreases.

High-resolution Fourier-Domain Optical Coherence Tomography and Microperimetric Findings After Macula-off Retinal Detachment Repair

PubMed Central

Smith, Allison J.; Telander, David G.; Zawadzki, Robert J.; Choi, Stacey S.; Morse, Lawrence S.; Werner, John S.; Park, Susanna S.

2009-01-01

Objective To evaluate the morphologic changes in the macula of subjects with repaired macula-off retinal detachment (RD) using high-resolution Fourier-domain optical coherence tomography (FD OCT) and to perform functional correlation in a subset of patients using microperimetry (MP-1). Design Prospective observational case series. Participants Seventeen eyes from 17 subjects who had undergone anatomically successful repair for macula-off, rhegmatogenous RD at least 3 months earlier and without visually significant maculopathy on funduscopy. Methods FD OCT with axial and transverse resolution of 4.5 μm and 10 to 15 μm, respectively, was used to obtain rapid serial B-scans of the macula, which were compared with that from Stratus OCT. The FD OCT B-scans were used to create a 3-dimensional volume, from which en face C-scans were created. Among 11 patients, MP-1 was performed to correlate morphologic changes with visual function. Main Outcome Measures Stratus OCT scans, FD OCT scans, and MP-1 data. Results Stratus OCT and FD OCT images of the macula were obtained 3 to 30 months (mean 7 months) postoperatively in all eyes. Although Stratus OCT revealed photoreceptor disruption in 2 eyes (12%), FD OCT showed photoreceptor disruption in 13 eyes (76%). This difference was statistically significant (P<0.001, χ2). Both imaging modalities revealed persistent subretinal fluid in 2 eyes (12%) and lamellar hole in 1 eye. Among 7 subjects who had reliable MP-1 data, areas of abnormal function corresponded to areas of photoreceptor layer disruptions or persistent subretinal fluid in 5 subjects (71%); one subject had normal FD OCT and MP-1. Conclusions Photoreceptor disruption after macula-off RD repair is a common abnormality in the macula that is detected better with FD OCT than Stratus OCT. A good correlation between MP-1 abnormality and presence of photoreceptor disruption or subretinal fluid on FD OCT demonstrates that these anatomic abnormalities contribute to decreased visual function after successful repair. PMID:18672289

The Pierre Auger Observatory scaler mode for the study of solar activity modulation of galactic cosmic rays

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pierre Auger Collaboration; Abreu, P.; Aglietta, M.; Ahn, E. J.; Allard, D.; Allekotte, I.; Allen, J.; Alvarez Castillo, J.; Alvarez-Muñiz, J.; Ambrosio, M.; Aminaei, A.; Anchordoqui, L.; Andringa, S.; Antičić, T.; Anzalone, A.; Aramo, C.; Arganda, E.; Arisaka, K.; Arqueros, F.; Asorey, H.; Assis, P.; Aublin, J.; Ave, M.; Avenier, M.; Avila, G.; Bäcker, T.; Badagnani, D.; Balzer, M.; Barber, K. B.; Barbosa, A. F.; Bardenet, R.; Barroso, S. L. C.; Baughman, B.; Beatty, J. J.; Becker, B. R.; Becker, K. H.; Bellétoile, A.; Bellido, J. A.; BenZvi, S.; Berat, C.; Bergmann, T.; Bertou, X.; Biermann, P. L.; Billoir, P.; Blanco, F.; Blanco, M.; Bleve, C.; Blümer, H.; Boháčová, M.; Boncioli, D.; Bonifazi, C.; Bonino, R.; Borodai, N.; Brack, J.; Brogueira, P.; Brown, W. C.; Bruijn, R.; Buchholz, P.; Bueno, A.; Burton, R. E.; Busca, N. G.; Caballero-Mora, K. S.; Caramete, L.; Caruso, R.; Castellina, A.; Catalano, O.; Cataldi, G.; Cazon, L.; Cester, R.; Chauvin, J.; Chiavassa, A.; Chinellato, J. A.; Chou, A.; Chudoba, J.; Clay, R. W.; Colombo, E.; Coluccia, M. R.; Conceição, R.; Contreras, F.; Cook, H.; Cooper, M. J.; Coppens, J.; Cordier, A.; Cotti, U.; Coutu, S.; Covault, C. E.; Creusot, A.; Criss, A.; Cronin, J.; Curutiu, A.; Dagoret-Campagne, S.; Dallier, R.; Dasso, S.; Daumiller, K.; Dawson, B. R.; de Almeida, R. M.; De Domenico, M.; De Donato, C.; de Jong, S. J.; De La Vega, G.; de Mello Junior, W. J. M.; de Mello Neto, J. R. T.; De Mitri, I.; de Souza, V.; de Vries, K. D.; Decerprit, G.; del Peral, L.; Deligny, O.; Della Selva, A.; Dembinski, H.; Denkiewicz, A.; Di Giulio, C.; Diaz, J. C.; Díaz Castro, M. L.; Diep, P. N.; Dobrigkeit, C.; D'Olivo, J. C.; Dong, P. N.; Dorofeev, A.; dos Anjos, J. C.; Dova, M. T.; D'Urso, D.; Dutan, I.; Ebr, J.; Engel, R.; Erdmann, M.; Escobar, C. O.; Etchegoyen, A.; Facal San Luis, P.; Falcke, H.; Farrar, G.; Fauth, A. C.; Fazzini, N.; Ferguson, A. P.; Ferrero, A.; Fick, B.; Filevich, A.; Filipčič, A.; Fleck, I.; Fliescher, S.; Fracchiolla, C. E.; Fraenkel, E. D.; Fröhlich, U.; Fuchs, B.; Fulgione, W.; Gamarra, R. F.; Gambetta, S.; García, B.; García Gámez, D.; Garcia-Pinto, D.; Garrido, X.; Gascon, A.; Gelmini, G.; Gemmeke, H.; Gesterling, K.; Ghia, P. L.; Giaccari, U.; Giller, M.; Glass, H.; Gold, M. S.; Golup, G.; Gomez Albarracin, F.; Gómez Berisso, M.; Gonçalves, P.; Gonzalez, D.; Gonzalez, J. G.; Gookin, B.; Góra, D.; Gorgi, A.; Gouffon, P.; Gozzini, S. R.; Grashorn, E.; Grebe, S.; Grigat, M.; Grillo, A. F.; Guardincerri, Y.; Guarino, F.; Guedes, G. P.; Hague, J. D.; Hansen, P.; Harari, D.; Harmsma, S.; Harton, J. L.; Haungs, A.; Hebbeker, T.; Heck, D.; Herve, A. E.; Hojvat, C.; Holmes, V. C.; Homola, P.; Hórandel, J. R.; Horneffer, A.; Hrabovský, M.; Huege, T.; Insolia, A.; Ionita, F.; Italiano, A.; Jiraskova, S.; Kadija, K.; Kaducak, M.; Kampert, K. H.; Karhan, P.; Karova, T.; Kasper, P.; Kégl, B.; Keilhauer, B.; Keivani, A.; Kelley, J. L.; Kemp, E.; Kieckhafer, R. M.; Klages, H. O.; Kleifges, M.; Kleinfeller, J.; Knapp, J.; Koang, D.-H.; Kotera, K.; Krohm, N.; Krömer, O.; Kruppke-Hansen, D.; Kuehn, F.; Kuempel, D.; Kulbartz, J. K.; Kunka, N.; La Rosa, G.; Lachaud, C.; Lautridou, P.; Leão, M. S. A. B.; Lebrun, D.; Lebrun, P.; Leigui de Oliveira, M. A.; Lemiere, A.; Letessier-Selvon, A.; Lhenry-Yvon, I.; Link, K.; López, R.; Lopez Agüera, A.; Louedec, K.; Lozano Bahilo, J.; Lucero, A.; Ludwig, M.; Lyberis, H.; Maccarone, M. C.; Macolino, C.; Maldera, S.; Mandat, D.; Mantsch, P.; Mariazzi, A. G.; Marin, V.; Maris, I. C.; Marquez Falcon, H. R.; Marsella, G.; Martello, D.; Martin, L.; Martínez Bravo, O.; Mathes, H. J.; Matthews, J.; Matthews, J. A. J.; Matthiae, G.; Maurizio, D.; Mazur, P. O.; Medina-Tanco, G.; Melissas, M.; Melo, D.; Menichetti, E.; Menshikov, A.; Meurer, C.; Mičanović, S.; Micheletti, M. I.; Miller, W.; Miramonti, L.; Mollerach, S.; Monasor, M.; Monnier Ragaigne, D.; Montanet, F.; Morales, B.; Morello, C.; Moreno, E.; Moreno, J. C.; Morris, C.; Mostafá, M.; Mueller, S.; Muller, M. A.; Müller, G.; Münchmeyer, M.; Mussa, R.; Navarra, G.; Navarro, J. L.; Navas, S.; Necesal, P.; Nellen, L.; Nhung, P. T.; Nierstenhoefer, N.; Nitz, D.; Nosek, D.; Nožka, L.; Nyklicek, M.; Oehlschläger, J.; Olinto, A.; Oliva, P.; Olmos-Gilbaja, V. M.; Ortiz, M.; Pacheco, N.; Pakk Selmi-Dei, D.; Palatka, M.; Pallotta, J.; Palmieri, N.; Parente, G.; Parizot, E.; Parra, A.; Parrisius, J.; Parsons, R. D.; Pastor, S.; Paul, T.; Pavlidou c, V.; Payet, K.; Pech, M.; Pękala, J.; Pelayo, R.; Pepe, I. M.; Perrone, L.; Pesce, R.; Petermann, E.; Petrera, S.; Petrinca, P.; Petrolini, A.; Petrov, Y.; Petrovic, J.; Pfendner, C.; Phan, N.; Piegaia, R.; Pierog, T.; Pieroni, P.; Pimenta, M.; Pirronello, V.; Platino, M.; Ponce, V. H.; Pontz, M.; Privitera, P.; Prouza, M.; Quel, E. J.; Rautenberg, J.; Ravel, O.; Ravignani, D.; Revenu, B.; Ridky, J.; Riggi, S.; Risse, M.; Ristori, P.; Rivera, H.; Rivière, C.; Rizi, V.; Robledo, C.; Rodriguez, G.; Rodriguez Martino, J.; Rodriguez Rojo, J.; Rodriguez-Cabo, I.; Rodríguez-Frías, M. D.; Ros, G.; Rosado, J.; Rossler, T.; Roth, M.; Rouillé-d'Orfeuil, B.; Roulet, E.; Rovero, A. C.; Salamida, F.; Salazar, H.; Salina, G.; Sánchez, F.; Santander, M.; Santo, C. E.; Santos, E.; Santos, E. M.; Sarazin, F.; Sarkar, S.; Sato, R.; Scharf, N.; Scherini, V.; Schieler, H.; Schiffer, P.; Schmidt, A.; Schmidt, F.; Schmidt, T.; Scholten, O.; Schoorlemmer, H.; Schovancova, J.; Schovánek, P.; Schroeder, F.; Schulte, S.; Schüssler, F.; Schuster, D.; Sciutto, S. J.; Scuderi, M.; Segreto, A.; Semikoz, D.; Settimo, M.; Shadkam, A.; Shellard, R. C.; Sidelnik, I.; Sigl, G.; Śmiałkowski, A.; Šmída, R.; Snow, G. R.; Sommers, P.; Sorokin, J.; Spinka, H.; Squartini, R.; Stapleton, J.; Stasielak, J.; Stephan, M.; Strazzeri, E.; Stutz, A.; Suarez, F.; Suomijärvi, T.; Supanitsky, A. D.; Šuša, T.; Sutherland, M. S.; Swain, J.; Szadkowski, Z.; Tamashiro, A.; Tapia, A.; Tarutina, T.; Taşcǎu, O.; Tcaciuc, R.; Tcherniakhovski, D.; Tegolo, D.; Thao, N. T.; Thomas, D.; Tiffenberg, J.; Timmermans, C.; Tiwari, D. K.; Tkaczyk, W.; Todero Peixoto, C. J.; Tomé, B.; Tonachini, A.; Travnicek, P.; Tridapalli, D. B.; Tristram, G.; Trovato, E.; Tueros, M.; Ulrich, R.; Unger, M.; Urban, M.; Valdés Galicia, J. F.; Valiño, I.; Valore, L.; van den Berg, A. M.; Vargas Cárdenas, B.; Vázquez, J. R.; Vázquez, R. A.; Veberič, D.; Venters, T.; Verzi, V.; Videla, M.; Villaseñor, L.; Wahlberg, H.; Wahrlich, P.; Wainberg, O.; Warner, D.; Watson, A. A.; Weber, M.; Weidenhaupt, K.; Weindl, A.; Westerhoff, S.; Whelan, B. J.; Wieczorek, G.; Wiencke, L.; Wilczyńska, B.; Wilczyński, H.; Will, M.; Williams, C.; Winchen, T.; Winders, L.; Winnick, M. G.; Wommer, M.; Wundheiler, B.; Yamamoto a, T.; Younk, P.; Yuan, G.; Yushkov, A.; Zamorano, B.; Zas, E.; Zavrtanik, D.; Zavrtanik, M.; Zaw, I.; Zepeda, A.; Ziolkowski, M.

2011-01-01

Since data-taking began in January 2004, the Pierre Auger Observatory has been recording the count rates of low energy secondary cosmic ray particles for the self-calibration of the ground detectors of its surface detector array. After correcting for atmospheric effects, modulations of galactic cosmic rays due to solar activity and transient events are observed. Temporal variations related with the activity of the heliosphere can be determined with high accuracy due to the high total count rates. In this study, the available data are presented together with an analysis focused on the observation of Forbush decreases, where a strong correlation with neutron monitor data is found.

The large-scale magnetic field in the solar wind. [astronomical models of interplanetary magnetics and the solar magnetic field

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Burlaga, L. F.; Ness, N. F.

1976-01-01

A literature review is presented of theoretical models of the interaction of the solar wind and interplanetary magnetic fields. Observations of interplanetary magnetic fields by the IMP and OSO spacecraft are discussed. The causes for cosmic ray variations (Forbush decreases) by the solar wind are examined. The model of Parker is emphasized. This model shows the three dimensional magnetic field lines of the solar wind to have the form of spirals wrapped on cones. It is concluded that an out-of-the-ecliptic solar probe mission would allow the testing and verification of the various theoretical models examined. Diagrams of the various models are shown.

eNOS gene Glu298Asp and 4b/a polymorphisms are associated with renal function parameters in Mexican patients with Fabry disease.

PubMed

Marin-Medina, A; Brambila-Tapia, A J L; Picos-Cárdenas, V J; Gallegos-Arreola, M P; Figuera, L E

2016-10-24

Fabry disease (FD) is an inherited X-linked lysosomal disease that causes renal failure in a high percentage of affected individuals. The eNOS gene encodes for endothelial nitric oxide synthase, which plays an important role in glomerular hemodynamics. This gene has two main polymorphisms (Glu298Asp and 4b/a) that have been studied in the context of many different diseases, including those involving cardiovascular and renal alterations. Considering the lack of information regarding eNOS variants and FD, we investigated whether there were associations between eNOS genetic variants and renal function parameters in Mexican patients with FD and renal impairment. In total, 15 FD patients with renal alterations were included in the present study, and associations between eNOS polymorphisms and renal function parameters (urea, creatinine, and GFR) were evaluated. The Asp298 and 4a alleles of the eNOS gene were found to be significantly associated with increased levels of urea and creatinine, and a decreased glomerular filtration rate in FD patients, and this association behaved in a co-dominant fashion. Our results coincide with previous reports showing an association between these polymorphisms and kidney disease, and along with other studies regarding their role in the nitric oxide pathway, suggest that these variants affect the severity of nephropathy in patients with FD.

Variations in plasma and urinary lipids in response to enzyme replacement therapy for Fabry disease patients by nanoflow UPLC-ESI-MS/MS.

PubMed

Byeon, Seul Kee; Kim, Jin Yong; Lee, Jin-Sung; Moon, Myeong Hee

2016-03-01

A deficiency of α-galactosidase A causes Fabry disease (FD) by disrupting lipid metabolism, especially trihexosylceramide (THC). Enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) is clinically offered to FD patients in an attempt to lower the accumulated lipids. Studies on specific types of lipids that are directly or indirectly altered by FD are very scarce, even though they are crucial in understanding the biological process linked to the pathogenesis of FD. We performed a comprehensive lipid profiling of plasma and urinary lipids from FD patients with nanoflow liquid chromatography electrospray-ionization tandem mass spectrometry (nLC-ESI-MS/MS) and identified 129 plasma and 111 urinary lipids. Among these, lipids that exhibited alternations (>twofold) in patients were selected as targets for selected reaction monitoring (SRM)-based high-speed quantitation using nanoflow ultra-performance LC-ESI-MS/MS (nUPLC-ESI-MS/MS) and 31 plasma and 26 urinary lipids showed significant elevation among FD patients. Higher percentages of sphingolipids (SLs; 48% for plasma and 42% for urine) were highly elevated in patients; whereas, a smaller percentage of phospholipids (PLs; 15% for plasma and 13% for urine) were significantly affected. Even though α-galactosidase A is reported to affect THC only, the results show that other classes of lipids (especially SLs) are changed as well, indicating that FD not only alters metabolism of THC but various classes of lipids too. Most lipids showing significant increases in relative amounts before ERT decreased after ERT, but overall, ERT influenced plasma lipids more than urinary lipids.

Design and theoretical calculation of novel GeSn fully-depleted n-tunneling FET with quantum confinement model for suppression on GIDL effect

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Xiangyu; Hu, Huiyong; Wang, Meng; Miao, Yuanhao; Han, Genquan; Wang, Bin

2018-06-01

In this paper, a novel fully-depleted Ge1-xSnx n-Tunneling FET (FD Ge1-xSnx nTFET) with field plate is investigated theoretically based on the experiment previously published. The energy band structures of Ge1-xSnx are calculated by EMP and the band-to-band tunneling (BTBT) parameters of Ge1-xSnx are calculated by Kane's model. The electrical characteristics of FD Ge1-xSnx nTFET and FD Ge1-xSnx nTFET with field plate (FD-FP Ge1-xSnx nTFET) having various Sn compositions are investigated and simulated with quantum confinement model. The results indicated that the GIDL effect is serious in FD Ge1-xSnx nTFET. By employing the field plate structure, the GIDL effect of FD-FP Ge1-xSnx nTFET is suppressed and the off-state current Ioff is decreased more than 2 orders of magnitude having Sn compositions from 0 to 0.06 compared with FD Ge1-xSnx nTFET. The impact of the difference of work function between field plate metal and channel Φfps is also studied. With the optimized Φfps = 0.0 eV, the on-state current Ion = 4.6 × 10-5 A/μm, the off-state current Ioff = 1.6 × 10-13 A/μm and the maximum on/off ration Ion/Ioff = 2.9 × 108 are achieved.

NTRC-dependent redox balance of 2-Cys peroxiredoxins is needed for optimal function of the photosynthetic apparatus.

PubMed

Pérez-Ruiz, Juan Manuel; Naranjo, Belén; Ojeda, Valle; Guinea, Manuel; Cejudo, Francisco Javier

2017-11-07

Thiol-dependent redox regulation allows the rapid adaptation of chloroplast function to unpredictable changes in light intensity. Traditionally, it has been considered that chloroplast redox regulation relies on photosynthetically reduced ferredoxin (Fd), thioredoxins (Trxs), and an Fd-dependent Trx reductase (FTR), the Fd-FTR-Trxs system, which links redox regulation to light. More recently, a plastid-localized NADPH-dependent Trx reductase (NTR) with a joint Trx domain, termed NTRC, was identified. NTRC efficiently reduces 2-Cys peroxiredoxins (Prxs), thus having antioxidant function, but also participates in redox regulation of metabolic pathways previously established to be regulated by Trxs. Thus, the NTRC, 2-Cys Prxs, and Fd-FTR-Trxs redox systems may act concertedly, but the nature of the relationship between them is unknown. Here we show that decreased levels of 2-Cys Prxs suppress the phenotype of the Arabidopsis thaliana ntrc KO mutant. The excess of oxidized 2-Cys Prxs in NTRC-deficient plants drains reducing power from chloroplast Trxs, which results in low efficiency of light energy utilization and impaired redox regulation of Calvin-Benson cycle enzymes. Moreover, the dramatic phenotype of the ntrc-trxf1f2 triple mutant, lacking NTRC and f -type Trxs, was also suppressed by decreased 2-Cys Prxs contents, as the ntrc-trxf1f2-Δ2cp mutant partially recovered the efficiency of light energy utilization and exhibited WT rate of CO 2 fixation and growth phenotype. The suppressor phenotype was not caused by compensatory effects of additional chloroplast antioxidant systems. It is proposed that the Fd-FTR-Trx and NTRC redox systems are linked by the redox balance of 2-Cys Prxs, which is crucial for chloroplast function. Copyright © 2017 the Author(s). Published by PNAS.

Interaction of a shock wave with multiple spheres suspended in different arrangements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Li-Te; Sui, Zhen-Zhen; Shi, Hong-Hui

2018-03-01

In this study, the unsteady drag force, Fd, drag coefficient, Cd, and the relevant dynamic behaviors of waves caused by the interaction between a planar incident shock wave and a multi-sphere model are investigated by using imbedded accelerometers and a high-speed Schlieren system. The shock wave is produced in a horizontal 200 mm inner diameter circular shock tube with a 2000 mm × 200 mm × 200 mm transparent test section. The time history of Cd is obtained based on band-block and low-pass Fast Fourier Transformation filtering combined with Savitzky-Golay polynomial smoothing for the measured acceleration. The effects of shock Mach number, Ms, geometry of multi-sphere model, nondimensional distance between sphere centers, H, and channel blockage are analyzed. We find that all time histories of Cd have a similar double-peak shaped main structure. It is due to wave reflection, diffraction, interference, and convergence at different positions of the spheres. The peak Fd increases, whereas the peak Cd decreases monotonically with increasing Ms. The increase of shock strength due to shock focusing by upstream spheres increases the peak Fd of downstream spheres. Both the increase in sphere number and the decrease in distance between spheres promote wave interference between neighboring spheres. As long as the wave interference times are shorter than the peak times, the peak Fd and Cd are higher compared to a single sphere.

Pioneer 10 and 11 Data Analysis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fillius, Walker

1997-01-01

This report finishes the work of NASA Grant NAS2-153, which supported data analysis for the UCSD instruments on Pioneers 10 and 11. The data analyzed under this grant span 22 years of interplanetary measurements in the inner and outer heliosphere. The UCSD instruments made their mark in cosmic ray research based upon their high energy thresholds, directional responses, and reliable data streams. one of their primary scientific objectives concerns the size, configuration, and time behavior of the heliosphere. The size scale is inferred from the radial intensity gradient, which is measured between the two spacecraft and extrapolated to interstellar intensity levels at the cosmic ray modulation boundary. This boundary still eludes us, and its position, motion, and the best method of extrapolation are ongoing problems. Current projections place the boundary beyond 100 AU, which may be beyond the termination shock, and raises the question of possible modulation in the heliosheath. Probably our only hope of seeing this region in the immediate future rides on the possibility that the boundary will move inward. Our instruments have recorded many Forbush, or transient, decreases in the outer heliosphere. These observations led us to a model that attributes many of the decreases to solar wind stream-stream interactions, and relates the cosmic ray variations to the locally observed magnetic field magnitude. As the cosmic ray variations in this model result only from topological changes in the modulation integral, the model is a tool for studying the possibility that the 11 year cosmic ray modulation cycle can be accounted for by a superposition of Forbush decreases. The cosmic ray angular distribution function is measurable, given a good telemetry rate, by the UCSD Cerenkov detector which counts particles of energy greater than 500 MeV/n. We obtained statistically significant samples from 1 to 9 AU, at 13 AU, and at 34 AU. The anisotropy tends to be a few tenths of a per cent at all radial distances. A quasiperiodic variation in the east-west anisotropy with period of about 50 days remains unexplained.

Effects of random food deprivation and refeeding on energy metabolism, behavior and hypothalamic neuropeptide expression in Apodemus chevrieri.

PubMed

Wan-Long, Zhu; Zheng-Kun, Wang

2016-11-01

Maintaining adaptive control of behavior and physiology is the main strategy used by animals in responding to changes of food resources. To investigate the effects of random food deprivation (FD) and refeeding on energy metabolism and behavior in Apodemus chevrieri, we acclimated adult males to FD for 4weeks, then refed them ad libitum for 4weeks (FD-Re group). During the period of FD, animals were fed ad libitum for 4 randomly assigned days each week, and deprived of food the other 3days. A control group was fed ad libitum for 8weeks. At 4 and 8weeks we measured body mass, thermogenesis, serum leptin levels, body composition, gastrointestinal tract morphology, behavior and hypothalamic neuropeptide expression. At 4weeks, food intake, gastrointestinal mass, neuropeptide Y (NPY) and agouti-related protein (AgRP) mRNA expressions increased and thermogenesis, leptin levels, pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC) and cocaine- and amphetamine-regulated transcript (CART) expressions decreased in FD compared with controls. FD also showed more resting behavior and less activity than the controls on ad libitum day. There were no differences between FD-Re and controls at 8weeks, indicating significant plasticity. These results suggested that animals can compensate for unpredictable reduction in food availability by increasing food intake and reducing energy expended through thermogenesis and activity. Leptin levels, NPY, AgRP, POMC, and CART mRNA levels may also regulate energy metabolism. Significant plasticity in energy metabolism and behavior was shown by A. chevrieri over a short timescale, allowing them to adapt to food shortages in nutritionally unpredictable environments. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

FARADAY TOMOGRAPHY OF THE NORTH POLAR SPUR: CONSTRAINTS ON THE DISTANCE TO THE SPUR AND ON THE MAGNETIC FIELD OF THE GALAXY

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

Sun, X. H.; Gaensler, B. M.; Landecker, T. L.

2015-09-20

We present radio continuum and polarization images of the North Polar Spur (NPS) from the Global Magneto-ionic Medium Survey conducted with the Dominion Radio Astrophysical Observatory 26 m Telescope. We fit polarization angle versus wavelength squared over 2048 frequency channels from 1280 to 1750 MHz to obtain a Faraday rotation measure (RM) map of the NPS. Combining this RM map with a published Faraday depth (FD) map of the entire Galaxy in this direction, we derive the FD introduced by the NPS and the Galactic interstellar medium (ISM) in front of and behind the NPS. The FD contributed by themore » NPS is close to zero, indicating that the NPS is an emitting only feature. The FD caused by the ISM in front of the NPS is consistent with zero at b > 50°, implying that this part of the NPS is local at a distance of approximately several hundred parsecs. The FD contributed by the ISM behind the NPS gradually increases with Galactic latitude up to b = 44°, and decreases at higher Galactic latitudes. This implies that either the part of the NPS at b < 44° is distant or the NPS is local but there is a sign change of the large-scale magnetic field. If the NPS is local, there is then no evidence for a large-scale anti-symmetry pattern in the FD of the Milky Way. The FD introduced by the ISM behind the NPS at latitudes b > 50° can be explained by including a coherent vertical magnetic field.« less

Topological Alterations of the Intrinsic Brain Network in Patients with Functional Dyspepsia.

PubMed

Nan, Jiaofen; Zhang, Li; Zhu, Fubao; Tian, Xiaorui; Zheng, Qian; Deneen, Karen M von; Liu, Jixin; Zhang, Ming

2016-01-31

Previous studies reported that integrated information in the brain ultimately determines the subjective experience of patients with chronic pain, but how the information is integrated in the brain connectome of functional dyspepsia (FD) patients remains largely unclear. The study aimed to quantify the topological changes of the brain network in FD patients. Small-world properties, network efficiency and nodal centrality were utilized to measure the changes in topological architecture in 25 FD patients and 25 healthy controls based on functional magnetic resonance imaging. Pearson's correlation assessed the relationship of each topological property with clinical symptoms. FD patients showed an increase of clustering coefficients and local efficiency relative to controls from the perspective of a whole network as well as elevated nodal centrality in the right orbital part of the inferior frontal gyrus, left anterior cingulate gyrus and left hippocampus, and decreased nodal centrality in the right posterior cingulate gyrus, left cuneus, right putamen, left middle occipital gyrus and right inferior occipital gyrus. Moreover, the centrality in the anterior cingulate gyrus was significantly associated with symptom severity and duration in FD patients. Nevertheless, the inclusion of anxiety and depression scores as covariates erased the group differences in nodal centralities in the orbital part of the inferior frontal gyrus and hippocampus. The results suggest topological disruption of the functional brain networks in FD patients, presumably in response to disturbances of sensory information integrated with emotion, memory, pain modulation, and selective attention in patients.

Effects of spaceflight on rat peripheral blood leukocytes and bone marrow progenitor cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ichiki, A. T.; Gibson, L. A.; Jago, T. L.; Strickland, K. M.; Johnson, D. L.; Lange, R. D.; Allebban, Z.

1996-01-01

The white blood cell (WBC) elements and the bone marrow myeloid progenitor cell populations were analyzed to ascertain adaptation to micro-gravity and subsequent readaptation to 1 G in rats flown on the 14-day Spacelab Life Sciences-2 (SLS-2) mission. Bone marrow cells were harvested from one group of rats killed inflight (FD13) and blood was drawn from three other groups at various times. The WBC level was normal on FD14 with the exception of neutrophilia. On FD13, numbers of colony-forming units-granulocyte (CFU-G), CFU-GM, and CFU-M from flight animals were decreased compared with ground controls when incubated with recombinant rat interleukin-3 (rrIL-3) alone or in combination with recombinant human erythropoietin (rhEpo). On recovery (R + 0), flight rats had decreased numbers of total leukocytes and absolute numbers of lymphocytes and monocytes with elevated neutrophils compared with control rats. They had lower numbers of CD4, CD8, CD2, CD3, and B cells in the peripheral blood but no differences in spleen lymphocytes.

Functional-drink rich in antioxidant cardamom-rhizome (Amomum cardamomum willd) suppresses inflammation and improves lipid profile

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Winarsi, H.; Susilowati, S. S.

2018-01-01

The aim of this research was to know the effect of functional drink rich in antioxidant cardamom rhizome (Fd-Carrhi) on level of IL-6, C-RP, and lipid profile of atherosclerotic. A total of 30 women with atherosclerosis, age 40-65 years old, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, hypertriglyceridemia, lived in Purwokerto, Banyumas, Central Java, Indonesia, and were willing to sign informed consent, recruited as research subjects. They consumed simvastatin from doctors, divided by 3 groups of 10 people each. Group I, given Fd-Carrhi; II, placebo; and III, only simvastatin, for 2 months. As many as 100 ml of Fd-Carrhi or placebo were given every morning. Blood samples were taken 3 times, 1 ml, at baseline, 1 and 2 months after intervention. Blood plasma was determined levels of IL-6, C-RP, as well as total cholesterol (total-c), triglycerides (TG), LDL-c, and HDL-c. Result showed Fd-Carrhi versus placebo significantly decreased plasma level of IL-6, C-RP, total-c, and LDL-c, and otherwise increased HDL-c, but no differences were seen in TG. The findings clearly support Fd-Carrhi inhibit the development of atherosclerosis towards cardiovascular heart diseases (CHD) by suppressing IL-6 and CRP levels, and improving lipid profile.

Functional diversity exhibits a diverse relationship with area, even a decreasing one

PubMed Central

Karadimou, Elpida K.; Kallimanis, Athanasios S.; Tsiripidis, Ioannis; Dimopoulos, Panayotis

2016-01-01

The relationship between species richness and area is one of the few well-established laws in ecology, and one might expect a similar relationship with functional diversity (FD). However, only a few studies investigate the relationship between trait-based FD and area, the Functional Diversity - Area Relationship (FDAR). To examine FDAR, we constructed the species accumulation curve and the corresponding FD curve. We used plant diversity data from nested plots (1–128 m2), recorded on the Volcanic islands of Santorini Archipelagos, Greece. Six multidimensional FD indices were calculated using 26 traits. We identified a typology of FDARs depending on the facet of FD analyzed: (A) strongly positive for indices quantifying the range of functional traits in the community, (B) negative correlation for indices quantifying the evenness in the distribution of abundance in the trait space, (C) no clear pattern for indices reflecting the functional similarity of species and (D) idiosyncratic patterns with area for functional divergence. As area increases, the range of traits observed in the community increases, but the abundance of traits does not increase proportionally and some traits become dominant, implying a reliance on some functions that may be located in either the center or the periphery of the trait space. PMID:27752086

The Pierre Auger Observatory scaler mode for the study of solar activity modulation of galactic cosmic rays

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

Abreu, P.; /Lisbon, LIFEP /Lisbon, IST; Aglietta, M.

2011-01-01

Since data-taking began in January 2004, the Pierre Auger Observatory has been recording the count rates of low energy secondary cosmic ray particles for the self-calibration of the ground detectors of its surface detector array. After correcting for atmospheric effects, modulations of galactic cosmic rays due to solar activity and transient events are observed. Temporal variations related with the activity of the heliosphere can be determined with high accuracy due to the high total count rates. In this study, the available data are presented together with an analysis focused on the observation of Forbush decreases, where a strong correlation withmore » neutron monitor data is found.« less

Solar Terrestrial Influences on the D Region as Shown by the Level of Atmospheric Radio Noise

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Satori, G.; Schaning, B.

1984-01-01

Measurements of the integrated atmospheric radio noise field strength at 27 kHz, used here, were made from 1965 to 1975 at Uppsala, Kuhlungsborn, and Prague-Panska Ves. The large scale meteorological situation was considered by comparing solar disturbed and undisturbed periods under similar weather situations. In order to show the effects of the precipitating high energy particle (HEP) flux and of the Forbush decrease on the noise level between pairs of stations were computed as deviations from the monthly median. Delta E (dB), day by day for all six periods was studied. The correlation coefficients for noon as well as for night values were computed. The correlation coefficients were compared with those for solar undisturbed periods.

Efficacy of a potassium-competitive acid blocker for improving symptoms in patients with reflux esophagitis, non-erosive reflux disease, and functional dyspepsia.

PubMed

Asaoka, Daisuke; Nagahara, Akihito; Hojo, Mariko; Matsumoto, Kenshi; Ueyama, Hiroya; Matsumoto, Kohei; Izumi, Kentaro; Takeda, Tsutomu; Komori, Hiroyuki; Akazawa, Yoichi; Shimada, Yuji; Osada, Taro; Watanabe, Sumio

2017-02-01

The aim of the present study was to investigate the efficacy of a potassium-competitive acid blocker (PCAB) named vonoprazan (VPZ) for improving symptoms in patients with reflux esophagitis (RE), non-erosive reflux disease (NERD), and functional dyspepsia (FD). A hospital-based, retrospective study of outpatients in our department (Department of Gastroenterology, University of Juntendo, Tokyo, Japan) between March 2015 and August 2016 was performed. The patients who were experiencing heartburn, acid regurgitation, gastric pain, and/or a heavy feeling in the stomach of at least moderate severity at baseline were treated with 20 mg VPZ once daily for 4 weeks. The patients completed the global overall symptom (GOS) scale to determine their symptom severity at baseline and after the 4 week treatment period. The proportions of patients with RE, NERD, and FD achieving improvement of their symptoms, defined as a GOS scale score of 1 ('no problem') or 2 ('minimal problem'), were evaluated. During 4 weeks of VPZ therapy, changes in the gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) score, which was defined as the total points for heartburn and acid regurgitation on the GOS scale in patients with RE and NERD, and in the FD score, which was defined as the total points for gastric pain and a heavy feeling in the stomach on the GOS scale in patients with FD, were also evaluated. A total of 88 eligible cases were included in the present study, comprising 20 patients with RE, 25 patients with NERD, and 43 patients with FD. The rates of symptomatic improvement in patients with RE, NERD, and FD were 75.0, 60.0, and 48.8%, respectively. For the patients who were first administered VPZ, the rates of symptomatic improvement were 90.9, 66.7, and 58.8% in patients with RE, NERD, and FD, respectively. For those patients who were resistant to 8 weeks of proton pump inhibitor therapy, the rates of symptomatic improvement were 55.6, 53.8, and 42.3% in patients with RE, NERD, and FD, respectively. The GERD score in patients with RE and NERD, and the FD score in FD patients, were decreased after 4 weeks of VPZ therapy (P<0.01). In patients with RE, NERD and FD, the possibility that PCAB may be used as a novel therapeutic drug was suggested. However, the number of study subjects was small; therefore, further, larger and prospective studies are required.

Correlating brain blood oxygenation level dependent (BOLD) fractal dimension mapping with magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) in Alzheimer's disease.

PubMed

Warsi, Mohammed A; Molloy, William; Noseworthy, Michael D

2012-10-01

To correlate temporal fractal structure of resting state blood oxygen level dependent (rsBOLD) functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) with in vivo proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy ((1)H-MRS), in Alzheimer's disease (AD) and healthy age-matched normal controls (NC). High temporal resolution (4 Hz) rsBOLD signal and single voxel (left putamen) magnetic resonance spectroscopy data was acquired in 33 AD patients and 13 NC. The rsBOLD data was analyzed using two types of fractal dimension (FD) analysis based on relative dispersion and frequency power spectrum. Comparisons in FD were performed between AD and NC, and FD measures were correlated with (1)H-MRS findings. Temporal fractal analysis of rsBOLD, was able to differentiate AD from NC subjects (P = 0.03). Low FD correlated with markers of AD severity including decreased concentrations of N-acetyl aspartate (R = 0.44, P = 0.015) and increased myoinositol (mI) (R = -0.45, P = 0.012). Based on these results we suggest fractal analysis of rsBOLD could provide an early marker of AD.

Effects of tree-to-tree variations on sap flux-based transpiration estimates in a forested watershed

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kume, Tomonori; Tsuruta, Kenji; Komatsu, Hikaru; Kumagai, Tomo'omi; Higashi, Naoko; Shinohara, Yoshinori; Otsuki, Kyoichi

2010-05-01

To estimate forest stand-scale water use, we assessed how sample sizes affect confidence of stand-scale transpiration (E) estimates calculated from sap flux (Fd) and sapwood area (AS_tree) measurements of individual trees. In a Japanese cypress plantation, we measured Fd and AS_tree in all trees (n = 58) within a 20 × 20 m study plot, which was divided into four 10 × 10 subplots. We calculated E from stand AS_tree (AS_stand) and mean stand Fd (JS) values. Using Monte Carlo analyses, we examined potential errors associated with sample sizes in E, AS_stand, and JS by using the original AS_tree and Fd data sets. Consequently, we defined optimal sample sizes of 10 and 15 for AS_stand and JS estimates, respectively, in the 20 × 20 m plot. Sample sizes greater than the optimal sample sizes did not decrease potential errors. The optimal sample sizes for JS changed according to plot size (e.g., 10 × 10 m and 10 × 20 m), while the optimal sample sizes for AS_stand did not. As well, the optimal sample sizes for JS did not change in different vapor pressure deficit conditions. In terms of E estimates, these results suggest that the tree-to-tree variations in Fd vary among different plots, and that plot size to capture tree-to-tree variations in Fd is an important factor. This study also discusses planning balanced sampling designs to extrapolate stand-scale estimates to catchment-scale estimates.

Radiotherapy of Painful Vertebral Hemangiomas: The Single Center Retrospective Analysis of 137 Cases

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

Miszczyk, Leszek, E-mail: leszek@io.gliwice.pl; Tukiendorf, Andrzej

2012-02-01

Purpose: An evaluation of dose-response relationship and an attempt to define predictive factors. Methods and Materials: A total of 137 cases of painful vertebral hemangioma irradiations (101 patients). Fraction dose (fd) varied from 2 to 15 Gy (123 fractionated and 14 radiosurgical treatments), and total dose (TD) from 8 to 30 Gy (111 cases irradiated with fd of 2 GY to TD of 24 Gy). We evaluated pain relief, changes in analgesic requirements, and reossification. Results: Means of pain relief 1, 6, 12, and 18 months after radiotherapy (defined as a decrease of primary pain level expressed in percent) weremore » 60.5%, 65.4%, 68.3%, and 78.4%, respectively. Proportion of patients with no need for analgesics and patients using tramadol were 39%, 40%, 44%, 57%, and 20%, 17%, 22%, and 11% in these times. The proportion of patients experiencing complete/partial pain relief changed from 36/48% 1 month, to 64/22% 1.5 years after radiotherapy. No impact of radiotherapy on reossification was found. The positive impact of fd and TD increase for analgesics uptake reduction and pain relief was found. An increase of the fd by 1 Gy results in 27% chance of analgesics uptake reduction and 3.8% reduction of pain, whereas 14% analgesics uptake reduction and 2.2% of pain reduction in case of the TD. The predictive factors improving results were found: female gender, older age, better performance states (the chance of the lower analgesic treatment decreases over 2.5 times in comparison to the higher Zubrod degree), bigger Hb concentration, shorter symptoms duration and lower analgesics uptake before radiotherapy. Conclusions: The obtained data support the efficacy of radiotherapy in improving pain secondary to vertebral hemangioma, with the degree of pain amelioration being related to increasing fd and TD. The positive predictive factors were defined: female gender, older age, better performance status, increased Hb concentration, shorter symptoms duration, and lower analgesics uptake before radiotherapy.« less

Dynamics of suspended sediment concentration, flow discharge and sediment particle size interdependency to identify sediment source

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sadeghi, Seyed Hamidreza; Singh, Vijay P.

2017-11-01

Spatiotemporal behavior of sediment yield is a key for proper watershed management. This study analyzed statistical characteristics and trends of suspended sediment concentration (SCS), flow discharge (FD) and sediment particle sizes using data from 24 gage stations scattered throughout the United States. Analysis showed significant time- and location-specific differences of these variables. The median values of SSC, FD and percentage of particle sizes smaller than 63 μm (P63) for all 24 gage stations were found to be 510.236 mg l-1 (right skewed), 45.406 m3 s-1 (left skewed) and 78.648% (right skewed), respectively. Most of the stations exhibited significant trends (P < 0.001) in daily SSC (18 stations; one increasing and 17 decreasing), FD (19 stations; seven increasing and 12 decreasing), and P63 (15 stations; five increasing and 10 decreasing) as well. Further, 46% of the stations exhibited significant trends in all three variables. The wash load significantly contributed (79.085 ± 11.343%) to sediment load recorded at the gage stations. Results of the study can be used for developing best watershed management practices which may call for local or regional planning based on natural (i.e., precipitation amount, type and erosivity, watershed area, and soil erodibility) and human-affected (i.e., land use and hydraulic structures and water resources management) factors governing the study variables.

Galactic Cosmic Ray Intensity Response to Interplanetary Coronal Mass Ejections/Magnetic Clouds in 1995-2009

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Richardson, I. G.; Cane, H. V.

2011-01-01

We summarize the response of the galactic cosmic ray (CGR) intensity to the passage of the more than 300 interplanetary coronal mass ejections (ICMEs) and their associated shocks that passed the Earth during 1995-2009, a period that encompasses the whole of Solar Cycle 23. In approx.80% of cases, the GCR intensity decreased during the passage of these structures, i.e., a "Forbush decrease" occurred, while in approx.10% there was no significant change. In the remaining cases, the GCR intensity increased. Where there was an intensity decrease, minimum intensity was observed inside the ICME in approx.90% of these events. The observations confirm the role of both post-shock regions and ICMEs in the generation of these decreases, consistent with many previous studies, but contrary to the conclusion of Reames, Kahler, and Tylka (Astrophys. 1. Lett. 700, L199, 2009) who, from examining a subset of ICMEs with flux-rope-like magnetic fields (magnetic clouds) argued that these are "open structures" that allow free access of particles including GCRs to their interior. In fact, we find that magnetic clouds are more likely to participate in the deepest GCR decreases than ICMEs that are not magnetic clouds.

Obstructive Sleep-Disordered Breathing Is More Common than Central in Mild Familial Dysautonomia

PubMed Central

Hilz, Max J.; Moeller, Sebastian; Buechner, Susanne; Czarkowska, Hanna; Ayappa, Indu; Axelrod, Felicia B.; Rapoport, David M.

2016-01-01

Study Objectives: In familial dysautonomia (FD) patients, sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) might contribute to their high risk of sleep-related sudden death. Prevalence of central versus obstructive sleep apneas is controversial but may be therapeutically relevant. We, therefore, assessed sleep structure and SDB in FD-patients with no history of SDB. Methods: 11 mildly affected FD-patients (28 ± 11 years) without clinically overt SDB and 13 controls (28 ± 10 years) underwent polysomnographic recording during one night. We assessed sleep stages, obstructive and central apneas (≥ 90% air flow reduction) and hypopneas (> 30% decrease in airflow with ≥ 4% oxygen-desaturation), and determined obstructive (oAI) and central (cAI) apnea indices and the hypopnea index (HI) as count of respective apneas/hypopneas divided by sleep time. We obtained the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI4%) from the total of apneas and hypopneas divided by sleep time. We determined differences between FD-patients and controls using the U-test and within-group differences between oAIs, cAIs, and HIs using the Friedman test and Wilcoxon test. Results: Sleep structure was similar in FD-patients and controls. AHI4% and HI were significantly higher in patients than controls. In patients, HIs were higher than oAIs and oAIs were higher than cAIs. In controls, there was no difference between HIs, oAIs, and cAIs. Only patients had apneas and hypopneas during slow wave sleep. Conclusions: In our FD-patients, obstructive apneas were more common than central apneas. These findings may be related to FD-specific pathophysiology. The potential ramifications of SDB in FD-patients suggest the utility of polysomnography to unveil SDB and initiate treatment. Commentary: A commentary on this article appears in this issue on page 1583. Citation: Hilz MJ, Moeller S, Buechner S, Czarkowska H, Ayappa I, Axelrod FB, Rapoport DM. Obstructive sleep-disordered breathing is more common than central in mild familial dysautonomia. J Clin Sleep Med 2016;12(12):1607–1614. PMID:27655467

Functional Inactivation of Putative Photosynthetic Electron Acceptor Ferredoxin C2 (FdC2) Induces Delayed Heading Date and Decreased Photosynthetic Rate in Rice

PubMed Central

Ruan, Banpu; Kang, Shujing; He, Lei; Zhang, Sen; Dong, Guojun; Hu, Jiang; Zeng, Dali; Zhang, Guangheng; Gao, Zhenyu; Ren, Deyong; Hu, Xingming; Chen, Guang; Guo, Longbiao; Qian, Qian; Zhu, Li

2015-01-01

Ferredoxin (Fd) protein as unique electron acceptor, involved in a variety of fundamental metabolic and signaling processes, which is indispensable for plant growth. The molecular mechanisms of Fd such as regulation of electron partitioning, impact of photosynthetic rate and involvement in the carbon fixing remain elusive in rice. Here we reported a heading date delay and yellowish leaf 1 (hdy1) mutant derived from Japonica rice cultivar “Nipponbare” subjected to EMS treatment. In the paddy field, the hdy1 mutant appeared at a significantly late heading date and had yellow-green leaves during the whole growth stage. Further investigation indicated that the abnormal phenotype of hdy1 was connected with depressed pigment content and photosynthetic rate. Genetic analysis results showed that the hdy1 mutant phenotype was caused by a single recessive nuclear gene mutation. Map-based cloning revealed that OsHDY1 is located on chromosome 3 and encodes an ortholog of the AtFdC2 gene. Complementation and overexpression, transgenic plants exhibited the mutant phenotype including head date, leaf color and the transcription levels of the FdC2 were completely rescued by transformation with OsHDY1. Real-time PCR revealed that the expression product of OsHDY1 was detected in almost all of the organs except root, whereas highest expression levels were observed in seeding new leaves. The lower expression levels of HDY1 and content of iron were detected in hdy1 than WT’s. The FdC2::GFP was detected in the chloroplasts of rice. Real-time PCR results showed that the expression of many photosynthetic electron transfer related genes in hdy1 were higher than WT. Our results suggest that OsFdC2 plays an important role in photosynthetic rate and development of heading date by regulating electron transfer and chlorophyll content in rice. PMID:26598971

Expression of stress hormones AVP and CRH in the hypothalamus of Mus musculus following water and food deprivation.

PubMed

Yadawa, Arun Kumar; Chaturvedi, Chandra Mohini

2016-12-01

Neurohypophyseal hormone, arginine vasopressin (AVP), in addition to acting as antidiuretic hormone is also considered to be stress hormone like hypothalamic corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH). Present study was designed to investigate the relative response of these stress hormones during water and food deprivation. In this study, male laboratory mice of Swiss strain were divided in 5 groups, control - provided water and food ad libitum, two experimental groups water deprived for 2 and 4days respectively (WD2 and WD4) and another two groups food deprived for 2 and 4days respectively (FD2 and FD4). Results indicate an increased expression of AVP mRNA as well as peptide in the hypothalamus of WD2 mice and the expression was further upregulated after 4days of water deprivation but the expression of CRH remained unchanged compare to their respective controls. On the other hand no change was observed in the expression of hypothalamic AVP mRNA while AVP peptide increased significantly in FD2 and FD4 mice compare to control. Further, the expression of CRH mRNA although increased in hypothalamus of both FD2 and FD4 mice, the immunofluorescent staining shows decreased expression of CRH in PVN of food deprived mice. Based on these findings it is concluded that since during osmotic stress only AVP expression is upregulated but during metabolic stress i.e. food deprivation transcription and translation of both the stress hormones are differentially regulated. Further, it is suggested that role of AVP and CRH may be stress specific. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Identification and functional analysis of delta-9 desaturase, a key enzyme in PUFA Synthesis, isolated from the oleaginous diatom Fistulifera.

PubMed

Muto, Masaki; Kubota, Chihiro; Tanaka, Masayoshi; Satoh, Akira; Matsumoto, Mitsufumi; Yoshino, Tomoko; Tanaka, Tsuyoshi

2013-01-01

Oleaginous microalgae are one of the promising resource of nonedible biodiesel fuel (BDF) feed stock alternatives. Now a challenge task is the decrease of the long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) content affecting on the BDF oxidative stability by using gene manipulation techniques. However, only the limited knowledge has been available concerning the fatty acid and PUFA synthesis pathways in microalgae. Especially, the function of Δ9 desaturase, which is a key enzyme in PUFA synthesis pathway, has not been determined in diatom. In this study, 4 Δ(9) desaturase genes (fD9desA, fD9desB, fD9desC and fD9desD) from the oleaginous diatom Fistulifera were newly isolated and functionally characterized. The putative Δ(9) acyl-CoA desaturases in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) showed 3 histidine clusters that are well-conserved motifs in the typical Δ(9) desaturase. Furthermore, the function of these Δ(9) desaturases was confirmed in the Saccharomyces cerevisiae ole1 gene deletion mutant (Δole1). All the putative Δ(9) acyl-CoA desaturases showed Δ(9) desaturation activity for C16∶0 fatty acids; fD9desA and fD9desB also showed desaturation activity for C18∶0 fatty acids. This study represents the first functional analysis of Δ(9) desaturases from oleaginous microalgae and from diatoms as the first enzyme to introduce a double bond in saturated fatty acids during PUFA synthesis. The findings will provide beneficial insights into applying metabolic engineering processes to suppressing PUFA synthesis in this oleaginous microalgal strain.

A Mixture of 3 Bifidobacteria Decreases Abdominal Pain and Improves the Quality of Life in Children With Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Multicenter, Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Crossover Trial.

PubMed

Giannetti, Eleonora; Maglione, Marco; Alessandrella, Annalisa; Strisciuglio, Caterina; De Giovanni, Donatella; Campanozzi, Angelo; Miele, Erasmo; Staiano, Annamaria

2017-01-01

We assessed the efficacy of a probiotic mixture of Bifidobacterium infantis M-63, breve M-16V, and longum BB536 in improving abdominal pain (AP) and quality of life (QoL) in children with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and functional dyspepsia (FD). AP-associated functional gastrointestinal disorders, particularly IBS and FD, are common in pediatrics, and no well-established treatment is currently available. Although probiotics have shown promising results in adults, data in children are heterogeneous. Forty-eight children with IBS (median age, 11.2 y; range, 8 to 17.9 y) and 25 with FD (age, 11.6 y; range, 8 to 16.6 y) were randomized to receive either a mixture of 3 Bifidobacteria or a placebo for 6 weeks. After a 2-week "washout" period, each patient was switched to the other group and followed up for further 6 weeks. At baseline and follow-up, patients completed a symptom diary and a QoL questionnaire. AP resolution represented the primary outcome parameter. In IBS, but not in FD, Bifidobacteria determined a complete resolution of AP in a significantly higher proportion of children, when compared with placebo (P=0.006), and significantly improved AP frequency (P=0.02). The proportion of IBS children with an improvement in QoL was significantly higher after probiotics than after placebo (48% vs. 17%, P=0.001), but this finding was not confirmed in FD. In children with IBS a mixture of Bifidobacterium infantis M-63, breve M-16V, and longum BB536 is associated with improvement in AP and QoL. These findings were not confirmed in FD subjects. Trial identifier: NCT02566876 (http://www.clinicaltrial.gov).

Clinical significance of increased serum levels of FGF-23 in fibrous dysplasia.

PubMed

Florez, Helena; Mandelikova, Stanislava; Filella, Xavier; Monegal, Ana; Guañabens, Núria; Peris, Pilar

2017-12-30

Fibrous dysplasia (FD) can be associated with the development of hypophosphatemic osteomalacia, caused by the production of FGF-23 by dysplastic bone tissue. This study analysed FGF-23 levels in patients with FD, and their association with disease activity and serum phosphate values. Twelve adult patients with FD were included in the study. Clinical history, disease extension and activity and treatments received were reviewed, and the relationship of those values with FGF-23 and serum P levels was analysed. FGF-23 was elevated in 6/12 patients (50%). Patients with high FGF-23 levels had similar age and disease activity and extension than those who did not. No differences were observed in serum phosphate values between both groups (increased FGF-23: 3.9±0.9 mg/dl vs. decreased FGF-23: 3.5±0.6 mg/dl). In fact, none of the patients with increased FGF-23 had low serum phosphate values. Adult FD patients frequently present elevated FGF-23 values with no serum phosphate level repercussion, suggesting an alteration in the processing of this protein in the dysplastic bone tissue for this pathology. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

Frequency-domain-independent vector analysis for mode-division multiplexed transmission

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Yunhe; Hu, Guijun; Li, Jiao

2018-04-01

In this paper, we propose a demultiplexing method based on frequency-domain independent vector analysis (FD-IVA) algorithm for mode-division multiplexing (MDM) system. FD-IVA extends frequency-domain independent component analysis (FD-ICA) from unitary variable to multivariate variables, and provides an efficient method to eliminate the permutation ambiguity. In order to verify the performance of FD-IVA algorithm, a 6 ×6 MDM system is simulated. The simulation results show that the FD-IVA algorithm has basically the same bit-error-rate(BER) performance with the FD-ICA algorithm and frequency-domain least mean squares (FD-LMS) algorithm. Meanwhile, the convergence speed of FD-IVA algorithm is the same as that of FD-ICA. However, compared with the FD-ICA and the FD-LMS, the FD-IVA has an obviously lower computational complexity.

Can we predict functional decline in hospitalized older people admitted through the emergency department? Reanalysis of a predictive tool ten years after its conception.

PubMed

De Brauwer, Isabelle; Cornette, Pascale; Boland, Benoît; Verschuren, Franck; D'Hoore, William

2017-05-12

In the Emergency Department (ED), early and rapid identification of older people at risk of adverse outcomes, who could best benefit from complex geriatric intervention, would avoid wasting time, especially in terms of prevention of adverse outcomes, and ensure optimal orientation of vulnerable patients. We wanted to test the predictive ability of a screening tool assessing risk of functional decline (FD), named SHERPA, 10 years after its conception, and to assess the added value of other clinical or biological factors associated with FD. A prospective cohort study of older patients (n = 305, ≥ 75 years) admitted through the emergency department, for at least 48 h in non-geriatric wards (mean age 82.5 ± 4.9, 55% women). SHERPA variables (i.e. age, pre-admission instrumental Activity of Daily Living (ADL) status, falls within a year, self-rated health and 21-point MMSE) were collected within 48 h of admission, along with socio-demographic, medical and biological data. Functional status was followed at 3 months by phone. FD was defined as a decrease at 3 months of at least one point in the pre-admission basic ADL score. Predictive ability of SHERPA was assessed using c-statistic, predictive values and likelihood ratios. Measures of discrimination improvement were Net Reclassification Improvement and Integrated Discrimination Improvement. One hundred and five patients (34%) developed 3-month FD. Predictive ability of SHERPA decreased dramatically over 10 years (c = 0.73 vs. 0.64). Only two of its constitutive variables, i.e. falls and instrumental ADL, were significant in logistic regression analysis for functional decline, while 21-point MMSE was kept in the model for clinical relevance. Demographic, comorbidity or laboratory data available upon admission did not improve the SHERPA predictive yield. Prediction of FD with SHERPA is difficult, but predictive factors, i.e. falls, pre-existing functional limitation and cognitive impairment, stay consistent across time and with literature. As accuracy of SHERPA and others existing screening tools for FD is moderate, using these predictors as flags instead of using composite scales can be a way to screen for high-risk patients.

Impact of coexisting irritable bowel syndrome and non-erosive reflux disease on postprandial abdominal fullness and sleep disorders in functional dyspepsia.

PubMed

Futagami, Seiji; Yamawaki, Hiroshi; Shimpuku, Mayumi; Izumi, Nikki; Wakabayashi, Taiga; Kodaka, Yasuhiro; Nagoya, Hiroyuki; Shindo, Tomotaka; Kawagoe, Tetsuro; Sakamoto, Choitsu

2013-01-01

The association between clinical symptoms and sleep disorders in functional dyspepsia (FD)-overlap syndrome has not been studied in detail. The subjects were 139 patients with FD, 14 with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), 12 with nonerosive reflux disease (NERD), and 41 healthy volunteers. Gastric motility was evaluated with the (13)C-acetate breath test. We used Rome III criteria to evaluate upper abdominal symptoms, and Self-Rating Questionnaire for Depression (SRQ-D) scores to determine depression status. Sleep disorders were evaluated with Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) scores. There were no significant differences in age, body-mass index, alcohol intake, and smoking rate between patients with FD alone and those with FD-overlap syndrome. The postprandial abdominal fullness score in patients with FD-NERD-IBS was significantly greater than that in patients with FD-NERD overlap syndrome (p<0.001) or FD alone (p<0.001). The score for the feeling of hunger in patients with FD-NERD-IBS was significantly greater than that in patients with FD alone (p=0.0025), FD-NERD overlap syndrome (p=0.0088), or FD-IBS overlap syndrome (p=0.0057). The heartburn score in subjects with FD-NERD-IBS overlap syndrome was significantly greater than that in subjects with FD alone (p=0.0035) or FD-IBS overlap syndrome (p=0.0026). The Tmax in patients with FD-overlap syndrome or FD alone was significantly higher than that in healthy volunteers. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index score in subjects with FD-NERD-IBS overlap syndrome was significantly greater than that in subjects with FD alone. Symptom scores, such as those for postprandial abdominal fullness, heartburn, and the feeling of hunger, in patients with FD-overlap syndromes are significantly greater than those in patients with FD alone. Further studies are necessary to clarify whether various symptoms are related to sleep disorders in patients with FD-NERD-IBS overlap syndrome.

III. Insects

Treesearch

Jose F. Negron

2011-01-01

RMRS research on insect pests focuses mostly on conifer pests. There is a long history of invasive insects causing significant impacts, mortality, and changes in forest ecosystem structure in North America. Perhaps the most evident example is the introduction of the gypsy moth, Lymantria dispar, into eastern North America in the 1860s (Forbush and Frenald 1896)....

[Study on effects of low frequency pulse plus auricular point magnetic therapy on electrogastrogram and clinical therapeutic effect in the patient of functional dyspepsia].

PubMed

Wang, Yan-Gang; Yao, Shu-Kun

2007-04-01

To compare therapeutic effects of low frequency pulse plus auricular point magnetic therapy and prepulsid on functional dyspepsia (FD). Fifty cases of FD were randomly divided into a treatment group and a control group. The treatment group were treated with low frequency pulse stimulation on Zhongwan (CV 12), Weishu (BL 21), Neiguan (PC 6), Zusanli (ST 36), with Fenglong (ST 40) and Sanyinjiao (SP 6) selected according to syndrome differentiation, once a day, 30 min each session. The control group were treated with oral administration of prepulsid. Five days constituted one course. The scores of symptoms and parameters of electrogastrogram (EGG) before and after treatment and the therapeutic effect were investigated. After treatment, the symptom scores significantly decreased (P < 0.01), with a significant difference in the decrease of symptom scores between the two groups (P < 0.05); and EGG parameters were improved (P < 0.05). The total effective rate of 93.3% in the treatment group was better than 75.0% in the control group with a significant difference between the two groups (P < 0.05). Low frequency pulse plus auricular point magnetic therapy can significantly improve the clinical symptoms and gastric activities in the patient of FD, with a better therapeutic effect than prepulsid.

A new method to evaluate the unfolding activity of chaperone unit ClpA based on Fe-S cluster disruption.

PubMed

Ohgita, Takashi; Okuno, Takashi; Hama, Susumu; Tsuchiya, Hiroyuki; Kogure, Kentaro

2011-01-01

ATP-dependent proteases unfold their substrates and then refold (via chaperone activity) or degrade (via protease activity) them. The proteases choose between these two activities by selecting their substrates; however, little is known about their substrate selection mechanism. The present study attempts to clarify this mechanism by investigating the role of the Escherichia coli (E. coli) ATP-dependent protease ClpAP. To address this, a reaction system that can measure both chaperone and protease activities simultaneously must be constructed. However, the chaperone activities cannot be evaluated in the presence of protease units. Green fluorescent protein (GFP) is usually used as a model substrate of ClpAP; the fluorescence decrease reflects the degradation of substrates. However, it is difficult to evaluate the chaperone activity of ClpAP using this system, because it cannot distinguish between intact and refolded substrates. Therefore, it is necessary to evaluate the exact unfolding activity while avoiding restoration of substrate spectroscopic characteristics due to chaperone activity. In this study, E. coli Ferredoxin (Fd) was used as a new model substrate for ClpAP to evaluate its unfolding activity. Intact and refolded substrates may be distinguished by the existence of an Fd Fe-S cluster. To verify this hypothesis, the absorption spectrum of Fd complexed with ClpA, the chaperone unit of ClpAP, was measured. A decrease in two peaks derived from the Fe-S cluster was observed, indicating that the Fe-S cluster of Fd was disrupted by the ClpA chaperone. This reaction system should prove useful to evaluate the exact unfolding activity of ATP-dependent proteases.

Efficacy and safety of enzyme-replacement-therapy with agalsidase alfa in 36 treatment-naïve Fabry disease patients.

PubMed

Tsuboi, Kazuya; Yamamoto, Hiroshi

2017-06-07

Fabry disease (FD) is an X-linked lysosomal storage disorder resulting from the α-galactosidase A gene mutations. Enzyme-replacement-therapy (ERT) products for FD currently used include agalsidase alfa and agalsidase beta. There are many reports on efficacy and safety of ERT. However, most of the previous studies are done as a retrospective medical records analysis. The Japan Fabry Research - 002 (JFR-002) was a prospective observational clinical study of 36 ERT-naïve FD patients (14 men and 22 women) at baseline (BL) and after initiation of ERT with agalsidase alfa 0.2 mg/kg every two weeks, a median period 62.5 months. The parameters measured included globotriaosylceramide (Gb3), globotriaosylsphingosine (Lyso-Gb3), left ventricular mass index (LVMI), brain natriuretic peptide (BNP), high-sensitivity troponin I (hs-Trop I), estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), and anti-agalsidase alfa IgG antibody formation. All parameters remained steady during ERT treatment period. BNP levels in 14 patients whose BL levels were within the normal range (<19.5 pg/mL) remained within the same range, while 22 patients whose BL levels were abnormally high (≥19.5 pg/mL) gradually showed decreased levels after start of ERT. Gb3 and Lyso-Gb3 levels remarkably decreased after the initiation of ERT and remained low. The JFR-002 suggests that agalsidase alfa is effective in maintaining organ function in FD patients, and that the incidence of infusion reactions related to the treatment with agalsidase alfa is low, indicating the good tolerability to this ERT. The JFR-002 was retrospectively registered at Japan Medical Association Center for Clinical Trials (Registration number: JMA-IIA00291 ) on May 19th, 2017.

[A correlation study between diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome complicated functional dyspepsia patients of Gan-stagnation Pi-deficiency syndrome and gastrointestinal hormones].

PubMed

Zhao, Liang; Song, Wen; Zhu, Ping; Zhang, Yu; Bu, Ping

2014-10-01

To investigate the correlation between the pathogeneses of diarrhea-pre- dominant irritable bowel syndrome (D-IBS) complicated functional dyspepsia (FD) patients of Gan-stagnation Pi-deficiency Syndrome (GSPDS) and symptoms, psychological states, and gastrointestinal hormones. A total of 111 patients with confirmed D-IBS complicated FD of GSPDS were recruited as the treated group by using Rome III standard and Chinese medical syndrome standard. And 30 healthy volunteers were recruited as the control group. The general condition, scoring for digestive symptoms, and the distribution of GSPDS subtype of all subjects were recorded by a questionnaire, and assessed by Symptom Checklist (SCL-90; a software for psychological test developed by Beijing Huicheng Adult Cor- poration). Meanwhile, plasma levels of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), somatostatin (SS), vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP), endothelin (ET), interleukin 10 (IL-10), and interleukin 12 (IL-12) were measured in all subjects. (1) The subtype of D-IBS complicated FD of GSPDS was dominant in Pi-qi deficiency type (51/111,45.9%),Pi yang deficiency type (34/111,30.6%), and GSPDS. There was no statistical difference in the scoring of digestive symptoms among the 3 subtypes (P >0.05). (2) Compared with the control group, the anxiety factor score and the total score significantly increased in all three subtypes of D-IBS complicated FD of GSPDS, and the depression score of Pi yang deficiency type and Gan-depression type also significantly increased (P <0.05, P <0.01); the depression score of Gan-depression type was significantly higher than that of the Pi-qi deficiency type (P <0.01). Plasma 5-HT levels were obviously lower in D-IBS complicated FD patients of GSPDS accompanied with anxiety or depression than in those with no obvious psychological abnormalities, and VIP and IL-10 levels were significantly lower than those in the control group (P <0.05). Plasma VIP levels were also obviously lower in D-IBS complicated FD patients of GSPDS accompanied with anxiety or depression than in those with no obvious psychological abnormalities (P <0.01), and SS levels were significantly lower than those in the control group (P <0.05). There was no statistical difference in plasma ET or IL-12 levels in each patient group, when compared with the control group (P >0.05). (3) Compared with the.control group, plasma 5-HT levels significantly increased, plasma VIP and IL-10 levels significantly decreased in ach subtype of D-IBS complicated FD patients of GSPDS (P <0.05, P <0.01), and no significant change of SS, ET, or IL-12 occurred (P >0.05). Besides, plasma 5-HT levels were significantly higher in Gan-depression type than in Pi yang deficiency type, VIP levels were lower in Gan-depression type than in Pi-qi deficiency type (all P <0.05). Gan stagnation and Pi deficiency were dominant in D-IBS complicated FD patients of GSPDS. Psychological abnormalities, increased plasma 5-HT levels, and decreased plasma VIP levels were closely correlated with Gan stagnation subtype, which provided some reference for looking for objective indicators of Chinese medical syndromes in treating D-IBS complicated FD patients of GSPDS.

Effect of 5,000 ppm Fluoride Dentifrice or 1,100 ppm Fluoride Dentifrice Combined with Acidulated Phosphate Fluoride on Caries Lesion Inhibition and Repair.

PubMed

Fernández, Constanza E; Tenuta, Livia Maria Andaló; Del Bel Cury, Altair Antoninha; Nóbrega, Diego Figueiredo; Cury, Jaime Aparecido

2017-01-01

High fluoride dentifrice (FD; 5,000 ppm F) has been recommended to arrest root dentine lesions and to control enamel caries in high-risk patients. Also, standard FD (1,100 ppm F) in combination with professional fluoride application has been recommended to control dentine caries, but the effect of this combination on enamel has been considered modest. Considering the lack of evaluation comparing the use of 5,000 ppm FD (5,000-FD) versus acidulated phosphate fluoride (APF) application combined with 1,100 ppm FD (1,100-FD) on the inhibition and repair of caries lesions in both enamel and dentine, we conducted this in situ, double-blind, crossover study of 3 phases of 14 days. In each phase, 18 volunteers wore palatal appliances containing enamel and root dentine specimens, either sound or carious, to evaluate the effect of the treatments on the inhibition or repair of caries lesions, respectively. The treatments were non-FD (negative control), 5,000-FD, or 1 APF gel application on dental specimens combined with 1,100-FD used twice per day (APF + 1,100-FD). The reduction of demineralization and enhancement of remineralization were assessed by surface and cross-sectional hardness. Fluoride concentration was determined on dental specimens and on the formed biofilm. For enamel, APF + 1,100-FD and 5,000-FD did not differ regarding the inhibition of demineralization and repair of caries lesions. However, for dentine the difference between these treatments was inconclusive because while APF + 1,100-FD was more effective than 5,000-FD in caries lesion reduction and repair, 5,000-FD was more effective than APF + 1,100-FD in the reduction of surface demineralization. Therefore, the findings show that the combination of APF + 1,100-FD is as effective as 5,000-FD in enamel inhibition of demineralization and enhancement of remineralization. © 2017 S. Karger AG, Basel.

A quasi-static model of global atmospheric electricity. II - Electrical coupling between the upper and lower atmosphere

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Roble, R. G.; Hays, P. B.

1979-01-01

The paper presents a model of global atmospheric electricity used to examine the effect of upper atmospheric generators on the global electrical circuit. The model represents thunderstorms as dipole current generators randomly distributed in areas of known thunderstorm frequency; the electrical conductivity in the model increases with altitude, and electrical effects are coupled with a passive magnetosphere along geomagnetic field lines. The large horizontal-scale potential differences at ionospheric heights map downward into the lower atmosphere where the perturbations in the ground electric field are superimposed on the diurnal variation. Finally, changes in the upper atmospheric conductivity due to solar flares, polar cap absorptions, and Forbush decreases are shown to alter the downward mapping of the high-latitude potential pattern and the global distribution of fields and currents.

Long-term modulation of cosmic rays during solar cycle 21

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fenton, A. G.; Fenton, K. B.; Humble, J. E.

1985-01-01

A preliminary result concerning the rigidity dependence of the longer-term solar cycle modulation is reported. The long-term modulation, using monthly mean intensities and referred to November 1977 as a normalizing level, appear to be in accordance with the exponent gamma = 1, provided only Brisbane and Hobart data are used. Darwin data do not conform to this pattern except perhaps during the early years of the cycle until about the end of 1980, since when the Darwin long-term intensity has been largely steady, apart from Forbush-type decreases and the as yet unidentified vector from the observed SI vector. The true SI vector of galactic origin can be obtained. The resultant vector has the amplitude of 0.031% and the phase of 2.3h. The present result seems to be consistent with those so far reported.

Interpreting high time resolution galactic cosmic ray observations in a diffusive context

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jordan, A.; Spence, H. E.; Blake, J. B.; Shaul, D. A.

2009-12-01

We interpret galactic cosmic ray (GCR) variations near Earth within a diffusive context. The variations occur on time-/size-scales ranging from Forbush decreases (Fds), to substructure embedded within Fds, to smaller amplitude and shorter duration variations during relatively benign interplanetary conditions. We use high time resolution GCR observations from the High Sensitivity Telescope (HIST) on Polar and from the Spectrometer for INTEGRAL (SPI) and also use solar wind plasma and magnetic field observations from ACE and/or Wind. To calculate the coefficient of diffusion, we combine these datasets with a simple convection-diffusion model for relativistic charged particles in a magnetic field. We find reasonable agreement between our and previous estimates of the coefficient. We also show whether changes in the coefficient of diffusion are sufficient to explain the above GCR variations.

Demultiplexing based on frequency-domain joint decision MMA for MDM system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Caili, Gong; Li, Li; Guijun, Hu

2016-06-01

In this paper, we propose a demultiplexing method based on frequency-domain joint decision multi-modulus algorithm (FD-JDMMA) for mode division multiplexing (MDM) system. The performance of FD-JDMMA is compared with frequency-domain multi-modulus algorithm (FD-MMA) and frequency-domain least mean square (FD-LMS) algorithm. The simulation results show that FD-JDMMA outperforms FD-MMA in terms of BER and convergence speed in the cases of mQAM (m=4, 16 and 64) formats. And it is also demonstrated that FD-JDMMA achieves better BER performance and converges faster than FD-LMS in the cases of 16QAM and 64QAM. Furthermore, FD-JDMMA maintains similar computational complexity as the both equalization algorithms.

Molecular weight dependence of permselectivity to rat small intestinal blood-lymph barrier for exogenous macromolecules absorbed from lumen.

PubMed

Yoshikawa, H; Takada, K; Muranishi, S

1984-01-01

The permselectivity to the small intestinal blood-lymph barrier for the exogenous macromolecules absorbed from the lumen was investigated using in situ rat closed loop experiment. We chose the fluorescein isothiocyanate-labelled dextran (FD) as macromolecule and lipid-surfactant mixed micelles as an absorption promoter. The mean molecular weights of FDs used were 10500, 17500, 39000 and 64200 (abbreviated: FD10 , 20, 40 and 70). The lymph/plasma ratios of FDs concentrations during 5 h post administration were 0.2-1.2 ( FD10 ), 0.4-1.3 ( FD20 ), 1.3-7.2 ( FD40 ) and 2.6-11.9 ( FD70 ), respectively. The FD40 and FD70 levels in the lymph were significantly higher than those in the plasma. The cumulative amounts (% of the absorbed quantity) of FDs in the lymph from the lumen of the small intestine for 5 h after administration were 0.46% ( FD10 ), 0.51% ( FD20 ), 1.17% ( FD40 ) and 1.89% ( FD70 ), respectively. These findings suggest that the threshold molecular weight of FD for the transfer into the lymphatics with higher level compared to the blood concentration from the lumen across the small intestinal blood-lymph barrier exists between 17500 and 39000.

Dehybridization of f and d states in the heavy-fermion system YbRh 2 Si 2

DOE PAGES

Leuenberger, D.; Sobota, J. A.; Yang, S. -L.; ...

2018-04-06

Here, we report an optically induced reduction of the f-d hybridization in the prototypical heavy-fermion compound YbRh 2Si 2. We use femtosecond time- and angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy to monitor changes of spectral weight and binding energies of the Yb 4f and Rh 4d states before the lattice temperature increases after pumping. Overall, the f-d hybridization decreases smoothly with increasing electronic temperature up to ~ 250 K but changes slope at ~ 100 K. This temperature scale coincides with the onset of coherent Kondo scattering and with thermally populating the first excited crystal electrical field level. Extending previous photoemission studies, wemore » observe a persistent f-d hybridization up to at least ~ 250 K, which is far larger than the coherence temperature defined by transport but in agreement with the temperature dependence of the noninteger Yb valence. Our data underlines the distinction of probes accessing spin and charge degrees of freedom in strongly correlated systems.« less

Organizational structure of the Croatian family practice: a longitudinal study based on routinely collected data.

PubMed

Keglević, Mladenka Vrcić; Balint, Ines; Cvetković, Ivica; Gaćina, Ana

2014-12-01

This study was undertaken with the main aim of determining the trends in the number of family doctors' (FD), gender and educational structure, working status and the number of patients per FD between 1995 and 2013. As the main source of data collection served the Croatian Health Service Yearbooks and Croatian Health Insurance Fund (CHIF) databases on practices and FDs contracting in 2013. Obtained results indicated that the number of contracted FDs increased until 2007, then decreased, and again increased until 2350 in 2013. Average number of patients on FDs list was 1987 in 2012. Less than 50% FDs were specialist in family medicine, 70.3% of them were self-employed with the CHIF contract, and 81% were women. 123 practices planned by the Network did not have contracting FD in 2013. The lack of FDs, the huge number of patients over the standard number, and the location of the missing practices within the rural communities, together make Croatian FM practices less accessible.

Dehybridization of f and d states in the heavy-fermion system YbRh 2 Si 2

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

Leuenberger, D.; Sobota, J. A.; Yang, S. -L.

Here, we report an optically induced reduction of the f-d hybridization in the prototypical heavy-fermion compound YbRh 2Si 2. We use femtosecond time- and angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy to monitor changes of spectral weight and binding energies of the Yb 4f and Rh 4d states before the lattice temperature increases after pumping. Overall, the f-d hybridization decreases smoothly with increasing electronic temperature up to ~ 250 K but changes slope at ~ 100 K. This temperature scale coincides with the onset of coherent Kondo scattering and with thermally populating the first excited crystal electrical field level. Extending previous photoemission studies, wemore » observe a persistent f-d hybridization up to at least ~ 250 K, which is far larger than the coherence temperature defined by transport but in agreement with the temperature dependence of the noninteger Yb valence. Our data underlines the distinction of probes accessing spin and charge degrees of freedom in strongly correlated systems.« less

Excretion of amino acids by humans during space flight

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stein, T. P.; Schluter, M. D.

1998-01-01

We measured the urine amino acid distribution patterns before, during and after space flight on the Space Shuttle. The urine samples were collected on two separate flights of the space shuttle. The first flight lasted 9.5 days and the second flight 15 days. Urine was collected continuously on 8 subjects for the period beginning 10 d before launch to 6 d after landing. Results: In contrast to the earlier Skylab missions where a pronounced amino aciduria was found, on shuttle the urinary amino acids showed little change with spaceflight except for a marked decrease in all of the amino acids on FD (flight day) 1 (p<0.05) and a reduction in isoleucine and valine on FD3 and FD4 (p<0.05). Conclusions: (i) Amino aciduria is not an inevitable consequence of space flight. (ii) The occurrence of amino aciduria, like muscle protein breakdown is a mission specific effect rather than part of the general human response to microgravity.

Photosynthetic and Heterotrophic Ferredoxin Isoproteins Are Colocalized in Fruit Plastids of Tomato1

PubMed Central

Aoki, Koh; Yamamoto, Miyuki; Wada, Keishiro

1998-01-01

Fruit tissues of tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) contain both photosynthetic and heterotrophic ferredoxin (FdA and FdE, respectively) isoproteins, irrespective of their photosynthetic competence, but we did not previously determine whether these proteins were colocalized in the same plastids. In isolated fruit chloroplasts and chromoplasts, both FdA and FdE were detected by immunoblotting. Colocalization of FdA and FdE in the same plastids was demonstrated using double-staining immunofluorescence microscopy. We also found that FdA and FdE were colocalized in fruit chloroplasts and chloroamyloplasts irrespective of sink status of the plastid. Immunoelectron microscopy demonstrated that FdA and FdE were randomly distributed within the plastid stroma. To investigate the significance of the heterotrophic Fd in fruit plastids, Glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PDH) activity was measured in isolated fruit and leaf plastids. Fruit chloroplasts and chromoplasts showed much higher G6PDH activity than did leaf chloroplasts, suggesting that high G6PDH activity is linked with FdE to maintain nonphotosynthetic production of reducing power. This result suggested that, despite their morphological resemblance, fruit chloroplasts are functionally different from their leaf counterparts. PMID:9765529

The analyses of extreme climate events over China based on CMIP5 historical and future simulations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, S.; Dong, W.; Feng, J.; Chou, J.

2013-12-01

The extreme climate events have a serious influence on human society. Based on observations and 12 simulations from Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 5 (CMIP5), Climatic extremes and their changes over china in history and future scenarios of three Representative Concentration Pathways (RCPs) are analyzed. Because of the background of global warming, in observations, the frost days (FD) and low-temperature threshold days (TN10P) have decreasing trend, and summer days (SU), high-temperature threshold days (TX90P), the heavy precipitation days (R20) and contribution of heavy precipitation days (P95T) show an increasing trend. Most coupled models can basically simulate main characteristics of most extreme indexes. The models reproduce the mean FD and TX90P value best and can give basic trends of the FD, TN10P, SU and TX90P. High correlation coefficients between simulated results and observation are found in FD, SU and P95T. For FD and SU index, most of the models have good ability to capture the spatial differences between the mean state of the 1986-2005 and 1961-1980 periods, but for other indexes, most of models' simulation ability for spatial disparity are not so satisfactory and have to be promoted. Under the high emission scenario of RCP8.5, the century-scale linear changes of Multi-Model Ensembles (MME) for FD, SU, TN10P, TX90P, R20 and P95T are -46.9, 46.0, -27.1, 175.4, 2.9 days and 9.9%, respectively. Due to the complexities of physical process parameterizations and the limitation of forcing data, a large uncertainty still exists in the simulations of climatic extremes. Fig.1 Observed and modeled multi-year average for each index (Dotted line: observation) Table1. Extreme index definition

Effect of physical countermaneuvers on orthostatic hypotension in familial dysautonomia.

PubMed

Tutaj, Marcin; Marthol, Harald; Berlin, Dena; Brown, Clive M; Axelrod, Felicia B; Hilz, Max J

2006-01-01

Familial dysautonomia (FD) patients frequently experience debilitating orthostatic hypotension. Since physical countermaneuvers can increase blood pressure (BP) in other groups of patients with orthostatic hypotension, we evaluated the effectiveness of countermaneuvers in FD patients. In 17 FD patients (26.4 +/- 12.4 years, eight female), we monitored heart rate (HR), blood pressure (BP), cardiac output (CO), total peripheral resistance (TPR) and calf volume while supine, during standing and during application of four countermaneuvers: bending forward, squatting, leg crossing, and abdominal compression using an inflatable belt. Countermaneuvers were initiated after standing up,when systolic BP had fallen by 40mmHg or diastolic BP by 30mmHg or presyncope had occurred. During active standing, blood pressure and TPR decreased, calf volume increased but CO remained stable. Mean BP increased significantly during bending forward (by 20.0 (17 - 28.5) mmHg; P = 0.005) (median (25(th) - 75(th) quartile)), squatting (by 50.8 (33.5 - 56) mmHg; P = 0.002), and abdominal compression (by 5.8 (-1 - 34.7) mmHg; P = 0.04) - but not during leg-crossing. Squatting and abdominal compression also induced a significant increase in CO (by 18.1 (-1.3 - 47.9) % during squatting (P = 0.02) and by 7.6 (0.4 - 19.6) % during abdominal compression (P=0.014)). HR did not change significantly during the countermaneuvers. TPR increased significantly only during squatting (by 37.2 (11.8 - 48.2) %; P = 0.01). However, orthopedic problems or ataxia prevented several patients from performing some of the countermaneuvers. Additionally, many patients required assistance with the maneuvers. Squatting, bending forward and abdominal compression can improve orthostatic BP in FD patients, which is achieved mainly by an increased cardiac output. Squatting has the greatest effect on orthostatic blood pressure in FD patients. Suitability and effectiveness of a specific countermaneuver depends on the orthopedic or neurological complications of each FD patient and must be individually tested before a therapeutic recommendation can be given.

Pre-steady-state kinetic studies of redox reactions catalysed by Bacillus subtilis ferredoxin-NADP(+) oxidoreductase with NADP(+)/NADPH and ferredoxin.

PubMed

Seo, Daisuke; Soeta, Takahiro; Sakurai, Hidehiro; Sétif, Pierre; Sakurai, Takeshi

2016-06-01

Ferredoxin-NADP(+) oxidoreductase ([EC1.18.1.2], FNR) from Bacillus subtilis (BsFNR) is a homodimeric flavoprotein sharing structural homology with bacterial NADPH-thioredoxin reductase. Pre-steady-state kinetics of the reactions of BsFNR with NADP(+), NADPH, NADPD (deuterated form) and B. subtilis ferredoxin (BsFd) using stopped-flow spectrophotometry were studied. Mixing BsFNR with NADP(+) and NADPH yielded two types of charge-transfer (CT) complexes, oxidized FNR (FNR(ox))-NADPH and reduced FNR (FNR(red))-NADP(+), both having CT absorption bands centered at approximately 600n m. After mixing BsFNR(ox) with about a 10-fold molar excess of NADPH (forward reaction), BsFNR was almost completely reduced at equilibrium. When BsFNR(red) was mixed with NADP(+), the amount of BsFNR(ox) increased with increasing NADP(+) concentration, but BsFNR(red) remained as the major species at equilibrium even with about 50-fold molar excess NADP(+). In both directions, the hydride-transfer was the rate-determining step, where the forward direction rate constant (~500 s(-1)) was much higher than the reverse one (<10 s(-1)). Mixing BsFd(red) with BsFNR(ox) induced rapid formation of a neutral semiquinone form. This process was almost completed within 1 ms. Subsequently the neutral semiquinone form was reduced to the hydroquinone form with an apparent rate constant of 50 to 70 s(-1) at 10°C, which increased as BsFd(red) increased from 40 to 120 μM. The reduction rate of BsFNR(ox) by BsFd(red) was markedly decreased by premixing BsFNR(ox) with BsFd(ox), indicating that the dissociation of BsFd(ox) from BsFNR(sq) is rate-limiting in the reaction. The characteristics of the BsFNR reactions with NADP(+)/NADPH were compared with those of other types of FNRs. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Nutritional habits in functional dyspepsia and its subgroups: a comparative study.

PubMed

Göktaş, Zeynep; Köklü, Seyfettin; Dikmen, Derya; Öztürk, Ömer; Yılmaz, Bülent; Asıl, Mehmet; Korkmaz, Hüseyin; Tuna, Yaşar; Kekilli, Murat; Karamanoğlu Aksoy, Evrim; Köklü, Hayretdin; Demir, Aslıhan; Köklü, Gülşah; Arslan, Serab

2016-08-01

Research data demonstrating nutritional habits of functional dyspepsia (FD) patients are very limited. This is the first study to evaluate nutritional habits in FD subgroups according to Rome III criteria. Our aim was to evaluate nutritional habits of FD patients and determine the food items that may provoke a dyspepsia symptom. A total of 168 adults with FD and 135 healthy control subjects participated in the study. FD subjects were divided into epigastric pain syndrome (EP-FD), postprandial distress syndrome (PS-FD), mixed (MX-FD) subgroups according to Rome Criteria III. Subjects completed a questionnaire that included a short-form food frequency questionnaire. Furthermore, subjects were asked to list the food items that were causing a dyspepsia symptom. Functional dyspepsia subjects had a slightly higher BMI (26.1 ± 4.97 kg/m(2)) than control subjects (24.6 ± 4.08 kg/m(2)). The most common symptom triggering foods among all the FD groups were fried and fatty foods (27.1%), hot spices (26.4%), and carbonated drinks (21.8%). In FD subgroups, carbonated drinks were more likely to cause a symptom in PS-FD group (37.3%) than MX-FD (25.7%) and EP-FD (22.1%) groups. There was no difference in frequency of main meals and snacks among any of the groups. Fatty and spicy foods and carbonated drinks were the most common symptom triggering food items in FD group. In subgroups, carbonated drinks and legumes were more likely to cause a symptom in PS-FD. Removing these food items during the course of treatment might help alleviate the symptoms.

Hemodynamic Changes Caused by Flow Diverters in Rabbit Aneurysm Models: Comparison of Virtual and Realistic FD Deployments Based on Micro-CT Reconstruction

PubMed Central

Fang, Yibin; Yu, Ying; Cheng, Jiyong; Wang, Shengzhang; Wang, Kuizhong; Liu, Jian-Min; Huang, Qinghai

2013-01-01

Adjusting hemodynamics via flow diverter (FD) implantation is emerging as a novel method of treating cerebral aneurysms. However, most previous FD-related hemodynamic studies were based on virtual FD deployment, which may produce different hemodynamic outcomes than realistic (in vivo) FD deployment. We compared hemodynamics between virtual FD and realistic FD deployments in rabbit aneurysm models using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations. FDs were implanted for aneurysms in 14 rabbits. Vascular models based on rabbit-specific angiograms were reconstructed for CFD studies. Real FD configurations were reconstructed based on micro-CT scans after sacrifice, while virtual FD configurations were constructed with SolidWorks software. Hemodynamic parameters before and after FD deployment were analyzed. According to the metal coverage (MC) of implanted FDs calculated based on micro-CT reconstruction, 14 rabbits were divided into two groups (A, MC >35%; B, MC <35%). Normalized mean wall shear stress (WSS), relative residence time (RRT), inflow velocity, and inflow volume in Group A were significantly different (P<0.05) from virtual FD deployment, but pressure was not (P>0.05). The normalized mean WSS in Group A after realistic FD implantation was significantly lower than that of Group B. All parameters in Group B exhibited no significant difference between realistic and virtual FDs. This study confirmed MC-correlated differences in hemodynamic parameters between realistic and virtual FD deployment. PMID:23823503

Degradation of formaldehyde at high concentrations by phenol-adapted Ralstonia eutropha closely related to pink-pigmented facultative methylotrophs.

PubMed

Habibi, Alireza; Vahabzadeh, Farzaneh

2013-01-01

The ability of the phenol-adapted Ralstonia eutropha to utilize formaldehyde (FD) as the sole source of carbon and energy was studied. Adaptation to FD was accomplished by substituting FD for glucose in a stepwise manner. The bacterium in the liquid test culture could tolerate concentrations of FD up to 900 mg L(-1). Degradation of FD was complete in 528 h at 30°C with shaking at 150 rpm (r = 1.67 mg L(-1) h(-1)), q = 0.035 g(FD) g(cell) (-1) h(-1). Substrate inhibition kinetics (Haldane and Luong equations) are used to describe the experimental data. At non-inhibitory concentrations of FD, the Monod equation was used. According to the Luong model, the values of the maximum specific growth rate (μ(max)), half-saturation coefficient (k(S)), the maximum allowable formaldehyde concentration (S(m)), and the shape factor (n) were 0.117 h(-1), 47.6 mg L(-1), 900 mg L(-1), and 2.2, respectively. The growth response of the test bacterium to consecutive FD feedings was examined, and the FD-adapted R. eutropha cells were able to degrade 1000 mg L(-1) FD in 150 h through 4 cycles of FD feeds. During FD degradation, formic acid metabolite was formed. Assimilation of FD, methanol, formic acid, and oxalate by the test bacterium was accompanied by the formation of a pink pigment. The carotenoid nature of the cellular pigment has been confirmed and the test bacterium appeared to be closely related to pink-pigmented facultative methylotrophs (PPFM). The extent of harm to soil exposed to biotreated wastewaters containing FD may be moderated due to the association between methylotrophic/oxalotrophic bacteria and plants.

Short-term nutritional folate deficiency in rats has a greater effect on choline and acetylcholine metabolism in the peripheral nervous system than in the brain, and this effect escalates with age

PubMed Central

Crivello, Natalia A.; Blusztajn, Jan K.; Joseph, James A.; Shukitt-Hale, Barbara; Smith, Donald E.

2010-01-01

The hypothesis of this study is that a folate-deficient diet (FD) has a greater effect on cholinergic system in the peripheral nervous system than in the brain, and that this effect escalates with age. It was tested by comparing choline and acetylcholine levels in male Sprague Dawley rats fed either control or folate-deficient diets for 10 weeks, starting at age 4 weeks (the young group) or 9 months (the adult group). FD consumption resulted in depletion of plasma folate in both age groups. In young folate-deficient rats, liver and lung choline levels were significantly lower than those in the respective controls. No other significant effects of FD on choline and acetylcholine metabolism were found in young rats. In adult rats, FD consumption markedly decreased choline levels in the liver, kidneys, and heart; furthermore, choline levels in the cortex and striatum were moderately elevated, although hippocampal choline levels were not affected. Acetylcholine levels were higher in the heart, cortex, and striatum but lower in the hippocampus in adult folate-deficient rats, as compared to controls. Higher acetylcholine levels in the striatum in adult folate-deficient rats were also associated with higher dopamine release in the striatal slices. Thus, both age groups showed higher cholinergic metabolic sensitivity to FD in the peripheral nervous system than in the brain. However, compensatory abilities appeared to be better in the young group, implicating the adult group as a preferred model for further investigation of folate-choline-acetylcholine interactions and their role in brain plasticity and cognitive functions. PMID:21056288

Applying novel nutrient drink to clinical trial of functional dyspepsia.

PubMed

Lim, Chul-Hyun; Choi, Myung-Gyu; Baeg, Myong Ki; Moon, Sung Jin; Kim, Jin Su; Cho, Yu Kyung; Park, Jae Myung; Lee, In Seok; Kim, Sang Woo; Choi, Kyu Yong

2014-04-30

The drink test has been regarded as a surrogate marker of gastric accommodation. The aims of this study were to develop a novel nutrient drink test (NDT) protocol and investigate its potential for application to a clinical trial of functional dyspepsia (FD). A novel NDT was designed, involving drinking 125 mL of nutrient 4 times at 5-minute intervals or until maximal tolerability. Healthy volunteers and patients with FD rated their symptoms every 5 minutes for 20 minutes in a developmental study. Patients with FD were enrolled in an open trial of itopride for 4 weeks. NDT was performed before and after treatment. Improvement of integrative symptoms score during NDT after treatment for more than 50% compared with baseline was de-fined as responder. Total aggregate symptom scores, sum of symptom scores measured during NDT, were higher in FD patients (n = 40, 368.1 ± 245.3) than in controls (n = 19, 215.9 ± 171.2) (P = 0.018) in a developmental study. In an open trial of itopride, symp-tom scores measured during NDT decreased significantly at all time points after treatment in responders (n = 49), whereas did not in non-responders (n = 25). Total aggregate symptom score for NDT correlated significantly with integrative dyspeptic symptom score, sum of 8 symptom scores of NDI questionnaire, at baseline (r = 0.374, P = 0.001) and after treatment (r = 0.480, P ＜ 0.001). Our novel NDT can quantify dyspeptic symptoms and reflected therapeutic effects of itopride treatment in a clinical trial of FD patients. This NDT can be used as an effective parameter in clinical trials or drug development programs for assessing effects of novel therapies on postprandial symptoms.

Applying Novel Nutrient Drink to Clinical Trial of Functional Dyspepsia

PubMed Central

Lim, Chul-Hyun; Choi, Myung-Gyu; Baeg, Myong Ki; Moon, Sung Jin; Kim, Jin Su; Cho, Yu Kyung; Park, Jae Myung; Lee, In Seok; Kim, Sang Woo; Choi, Kyu Yong

2014-01-01

Background/Aims The drink test has been regarded as a surrogate marker of gastric accommodation. The aims of this study were to develop a novel nutrient drink test (NDT) protocol and investigate its potential for application to a clinical trial of functional dyspepsia (FD). Methods A novel NDT was designed, involving drinking 125 mL of nutrient 4 times at 5-minute intervals or until maximal tolerability. Healthy volunteers and patients with FD rated their symptoms every 5 minutes for 20 minutes in a developmental study. Patients with FD were enrolled in an open trial of itopride for 4 weeks. NDT was performed before and after treatment. Improvement of integrative symptoms score during NDT after treatment for more than 50% compared with baseline was defined as responder. Results Total aggregate symptom scores, sum of symptom scores measured during NDT, were higher in FD patients (n = 40, 368.1 ± 245.3) than in controls (n = 19, 215.9 ± 171.2) (P = 0.018) in a developmental study. In an open trial of itopride, symptom scores measured during NDT decreased significantly at all time points after treatment in responders (n = 49), whereas did not in non-responders (n = 25). Total aggregate symptom score for NDT correlated significantly with integrative dyspeptic symptom score, sum of 8 symptom scores of NDI questionnaire, at baseline (r = 0.374, P = 0.001) and after treatment (r = 0.480, P < 0.001). Conclusions Our novel NDT can quantify dyspeptic symptoms and reflected therapeutic effects of itopride treatment in a clinical trial of FD patients. This NDT can be used as an effective parameter in clinical trials or drug development programs for assessing effects of novel therapies on postprandial symptoms. PMID:24840374

Fabry Disease in Families With Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: Clinical Manifestations in the Classic and Later-Onset Phenotypes.

PubMed

Adalsteinsdottir, Berglind; Palsson, Runolfur; Desnick, Robert J; Gardarsdottir, Marianna; Teekakirikul, Polakit; Maron, Martin; Appelbaum, Evan; Neisius, Ulf; Maron, Barry J; Burke, Michael A; Chen, Brenden; Pagant, Silvere; Madsen, Christoffer V; Danielsen, Ragnar; Arngrimsson, Reynir; Feldt-Rasmussen, Ulla; Seidman, Jonathan G; Seidman, Christine E; Gunnarsson, Gunnar Th

2017-08-01

The screening of Icelandic patients clinically diagnosed with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy resulted in identification of 8 individuals from 2 families with X-linked Fabry disease (FD) caused by GLA (α-galactosidase A gene) mutations encoding p.D322E (family A) or p.I232T (family B). Familial screening of at-risk relatives identified mutations in 16 family A members (8 men and 8 heterozygotes) and 25 family B members (10 men and 15 heterozygotes). Clinical assessments, α-galactosidase A (α-GalA) activities, glycosphingolipid substrate levels, and in vitro mutation expression were used to categorize p.D322E as a classic FD mutation and p.I232T as a later-onset FD mutation. In vitro expression revealed that p.D322E and p.I232T had α-GalA activities of 1.4% and 14.9% of the mean wild-type activity, respectively. Family A men had markedly decreased α-GalA activity and childhood-onset classic manifestations, except for angiokeratoma and cornea verticillata. Family B men had residual α-GalA activity and developed FD manifestations in adulthood. Despite these differences, all family A and family B men >30 years of age had left ventricular hypertrophy, which was mainly asymmetrical, and had similar late gadolinium enhancement patterns. Ischemic stroke and severe white matter lesions were more frequent among family A men, but neither family A nor family B men had overt renal disease. Family A and family B heterozygotes had less severe or no clinical manifestations. Men with classic or later-onset FD caused by GLA missense mutations developed prominent and similar cardiovascular disease at similar ages, despite markedly different α-GalA activities. © 2017 American Heart Association, Inc.

a New Method for Calculating the Fractal Dimension of Surface Topography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zuo, Xue; Zhu, Hua; Zhou, Yuankai; Li, Yan

2015-06-01

A new method termed as three-dimensional root-mean-square (3D-RMS) method, is proposed to calculate the fractal dimension (FD) of machined surfaces. The measure of this method is the root-mean-square value of surface data, and the scale is the side length of square in the projection plane. In order to evaluate the calculation accuracy of the proposed method, the isotropic surfaces with deterministic FD are generated based on the fractional Brownian function and Weierstrass-Mandelbrot (WM) fractal function, and two kinds of anisotropic surfaces are generated by stretching or rotating a WM fractal curve. Their FDs are estimated by the proposed method, as well as differential boxing-counting (DBC) method, triangular prism surface area (TPSA) method and variation method (VM). The results show that the 3D-RMS method performs better than the other methods with a lower relative error for both isotropic and anisotropic surfaces, especially for the surfaces with dimensions higher than 2.5, since the relative error between the estimated value and its theoretical value decreases with theoretical FD. Finally, the electrodeposited surface, end-turning surface and grinding surface are chosen as examples to illustrate the application of 3D-RMS method on the real machined surfaces. This method gives a new way to accurately calculate the FD from the surface topographic data.

Microvascular fractal dimension predicts prognosis and response to chemotherapy in glioblastoma: an automatic image analysis study.

PubMed

Chen, Cong; He, Zhi-Cheng; Shi, Yu; Zhou, Wenchao; Zhang, Xia; Xiao, Hua-Liang; Wu, Hai-Bo; Yao, Xiao-Hong; Luo, Wan-Chun; Cui, You-Hong; Bao, Shideng; Kung, Hsiang-Fu; Bian, Xiu-Wu; Ping, Yi-Fang

2018-05-15

The microvascular profile has been included in the WHO glioma grading criteria. Nevertheless, microvessels in gliomas of the same WHO grade, e.g., WHO IV glioblastoma (GBM), exhibit heterogeneous and polymorphic morphology, whose possible clinical significance remains to be determined. In this study, we employed a fractal geometry-derived parameter, microvascular fractal dimension (mvFD), to quantify microvessel complexity and developed a home-made macro in Image J software to automatically determine mvFD from the microvessel-stained immunohistochemical images of GBM. We found that mvFD effectively quantified the morphological complexity of GBM microvasculature. Furthermore, high mvFD favored the survival of GBM patients as an independent prognostic indicator and predicted a better response to chemotherapy of GBM patients. When investigating the underlying relations between mvFD and tumor growth by deploying Ki67/mvFD as an index for microvasculature-normalized tumor proliferation, we discovered an inverse correlation between mvFD and Ki67/mvFD. Furthermore, mvFD inversely correlated with the expressions of a glycolytic marker, LDHA, which indicated poor prognosis of GBM patients. Conclusively, we developed an automatic approach for mvFD measurement, and demonstrated that mvFD could predict the prognosis and response to chemotherapy of GBM patients.

Mini Neutron Monitors at Concordia Research Station, Central Antarctica

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Poluianov, Stepan; Usoskin, Ilya; Mishev, Alexander; Moraal, Harm; Kruger, Helena; Casasanta, Giampietro; Traversi, Rita; Udisti, Roberto

2015-12-01

Two mini neutron monitors are installed at Concordia research station (Dome C, Central Antarctica, 75° 06' S, 123° 23' E, 3,233 m.a.s.l.). The site has unique properties ideal for cosmic ray measurements, especially for the detection of solar energetic particles: very low cutoff rigidity < 0.01 GV, high elevation and poleward asymptotic acceptance cones pointing to geographical latitudes > 75° S. The instruments consist of a standard neutron monitor and a "bare" (lead-free) neutron monitor. The instrument operation started in mid-January 2015. The barometric correction coefficients were computed for the period from 1 February to 31 July 2015. Several interesting events, including two notable Forbush decreases on 17 March 2015 and 22 June 2015, and a solar particle event of 29 October 2015 were registered. The data sets are available at cosmicrays.oulu.fi and nmdb.eu.

VAMOS: A pathfinder for the HAWC gamma-ray observatory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abeysekara, A. U.; Alfaro, R.; Alvarez, C.; Álvarez, J. D.; Ángeles, F.; Arceo, R.; Arteaga-Velázquez, J. C.; Avila-Aroche, A.; Ayala Solares, H. A.; Badillo, C.; Barber, A. S.; Baughman, B. M.; Bautista-Elivar, N.; Becerra Gonzalez, J.; Belmont, E.; Benítez, E.; BenZvi, S. Y.; Berley, D.; Bernal, A.; Bonilla Rosales, M.; Braun, J.; Caballero-Lopez, R. A.; Caballero-Mora, K. S.; Cabrera, I.; Carramiñana, A.; Castañeda-Martínez, L.; Castillo, M.; Cotti, U.; Cotzomi, J.; de la Fuente, E.; De León, C.; DeYoung, T.; Diaz-Azuara, A.; Diaz-Cruz, L.; Diaz Hernandez, R.; Díaz-Vélez, J. C.; Dingus, B. L.; Dultzin, D.; DuVernois, M. A.; Ellsworth, R. W.; Fernandez, A.; Fiorino, D. W.; Fraija, N.; Galindo, A.; García-Torales, G.; Garfias, F.; González, A.; González, L. X.; González, M. M.; Goodman, J. A.; Grabski, V.; Gussert, M.; Guzmán-Cerón, C.; Hampel-Arias, Z.; Harding, J. P.; Hernández-Cervantes, L.; Hui, C. M.; Hüntemeyer, P.; Imran, A.; Iriarte, A.; Karn, P.; Kieda, D.; Kunde, G. J.; Langarica, R.; Lara, A.; Lara, G.; Lauer, R. J.; Lee, W. H.; Lennarz, D.; León Vargas, H.; Linares, E. C.; Linnemann, J. T.; Longo, M.; Luna-Garcia, R.; Marinelli, A.; Martínez, L. A.; Martínez, H.; Martínez, O.; Martínez-Castro, J.; Martos, M.; Matthews, J. A. J.; McEnery, J.; Mendoza Torres, E.; Miranda-Romagnoli, P.; Moreno, E.; Mostafá, M.; Nava, J.; Nellen, L.; Newbold, M.; Noriega-Papaqui, R.; Oceguera-Becerra, T.; Page, D. P.; Patricelli, B.; Pelayo, R.; Pérez-Pérez, E. G.; Pretz, J.; Ramírez, I.; Rentería, A.; Rivière, C.; Rosa-González, D.; Ruiz-Sala, F.; Ruiz-Velasco, E. L.; Ryan, J.; Sacahui, J. R.; Salazar, H.; Salesa, F.; Sandoval, A.; Santos, E.; Schneider, M.; Silich, S.; Sinnis, G.; Smith, A. J.; Sparks Woodle, K.; Springer, R. W.; Suarez, F.; Taboada, I.; Tepe, A.; Toale, P. A.; Tollefson, K.; Torres, I.; Tinoco, S.; Ukwatta, T. N.; Valdés Galicia, J. F.; Vanegas, P.; Vázquez, A.; Villaseñor, L.; Wall, W.; Weisgarber, T.; Westerhoff, S.; Wisher, I. G.; Wood, J.; Yodh, G. B.; Younk, P. W.; Zaborov, D.; Zepeda, A.; Zhou, H.

2015-03-01

VAMOS was a prototype detector built in 2011 at an altitude of 4100 m a.s.l. in the state of Puebla, Mexico. The aim of VAMOS was to finalize the design, construction techniques and data acquisition system of the HAWC observatory. HAWC is an air-shower array currently under construction at the same site of VAMOS with the purpose to study the TeV sky. The VAMOS setup included six water Cherenkov detectors and two different data acquisition systems. It was in operation between October 2011 and May 2012 with an average live time of 30%. Besides the scientific verification purposes, the eight months of data were used to obtain the results presented in this paper: the detector response to the Forbush decrease of March 2012, and the analysis of possible emission, at energies above 30 GeV, for long gamma-ray bursts GRB111016B and GRB120328B.

A quasi-static model of global atmospheric electricity. I - The lower atmosphere

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hays, P. B.; Roble, R. G.

1979-01-01

A quasi-steady model of global lower atmospheric electricity is presented. The model considers thunderstorms as dipole electric generators that can be randomly distributed in various regions and that are the only source of atmospheric electricity and includes the effects of orography and electrical coupling along geomagnetic field lines in the ionosphere and magnetosphere. The model is used to calculate the global distribution of electric potential and current for model conductivities and assumed spatial distributions of thunderstorms. Results indicate that large positive electric potentials are generated over thunderstorms and penetrate to ionospheric heights and into the conjugate hemisphere along magnetic field lines. The perturbation of the calculated electric potential and current distributions during solar flares and subsequent Forbush decreases is discussed, and future measurements of atmospheric electrical parameters and modifications of the model which would improve the agreement between calculations and measurements are suggested.

GCR Modulation by Small-Scale Features in the Interplanetary Medium

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jordan, A. P.; Spence, H. E.; Blake, J. B.; Mulligan, T. L.; Shaul, D. N.; Galametz, M.

2007-12-01

In an effort to uncover the properties of structures in the interplanetary medium (IPM) that modulate galactic cosmic rays (GCR) on short time-scales (from hours to days), we study periods of differing conditions in the IPM. We analyze GCR variations from spacecraft both inside and outside the magnetosphere, using the High Sensitivity Telescope (HIST) on Polar and the Spectrometer for INTEGRAL (SPI). We seek causal correlations between the observed GCR modulations and structures in the solar wind plasma and interplanetary magnetic field, as measured concurrently with ACE and/or Wind. Our analysis spans time-/size-scale variations ranging from classic Forbush decreases (Fds), to substructure embedded within Fds, to much smaller amplitude and shorter duration variations observed during comparatively benign interplanetary conditions. We compare and contrast the conditions leading to the range of different GCR responses to modulating structures in the IPM.

On quasi-periodic variations of low-energy cosmic rays observed near earth.

PubMed

Kudela, Karel; Langer, Ronald

2015-06-01

Cosmic ray (CR) may partially, especially at high altitudes, contribute to the dosimetric characteristics. Along with irregular CR variations as Forbush decreases and solar particle events are, the quasi-periodic variations may be of some relevance too. A very short review (with references to original papers) of the present knowledge of various types of such variations is presented, namely (i) diurnal wave, (ii) ~27 d variability due to the solar rotation, (iii) Rieger-type periodicity, and (iv) quasi-biennial oscillations as well as waves on longer time scales related to solar activity and to polarity of magnetic field of the Sun. Variability is illustrated in measurements of secondary CR on the ground including the high-altitude observations at Lomnický štít. © The Author 2015. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Evolution of a Coronal Mass Ejection from the Sun to Mercury, Venus, Earth and Beyond

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Y.; Shen, C.; Liu, J.; Mengjiao, X.; Guo, J.

2017-12-01

A clear magnetic cloud was observed by Messenger at Mercury. By using coronagraph images from SOHO/LASCO and STEREO/COR and the in-situ data from Wind near the Earth, we estimated its propgation velocity and identified the possible CME candidate in the corona and its counterpart recorded by Venus Express near Venus. By applying the CME's DIPS (Deflection in InterPlanetary Space) model, we show that the CME's arrivals at the three different heliocentric distance can be well reproduced. By extending the trajectory of the CME to the orbitor of Mars, we predict the arrival of the CME at Mars, which is in agreement with a significant Forbush decrease observed by MSL. We use uniformly-twisted force-free flux rope model to fit the in-situ measurements at Mercury, Venus and the Earth to study the evolution of the magnetic flux rope, and find that both axial magnetic flux and twist significantly decreased, suggesting that a significant erosion process was on-going and might change the averaged twist of the magnetic flux rope.

Atmospheric Effects on Cosmic Ray Air Showers Observed with HAWC

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Young, Steven

2014-01-01

The High Altitude Water Cherenkov Gamma Ray detector (HAWC), currently under construction on the Sierra Negra volcano near Puebla, Mexico, can be used to study solar physics with its scaler data acquisition system. Increases in the scaler rates are used to observe GeV cosmic rays from solar flares while decreases in the rates show the heliospheric disturbances associated with coronal mass ejections. However, weather conditions and height-dependent state variables such as pressure and temperature affect the production of extensive particle air showers that can be detected by the scaler system. To see if these atmospheric effects can be removed, we obtained local weather data from the Global Data Assimilation System (GDAS) and the local weather station at HAWC. The scaler pulse rates were then correlated to the pressure and temperature. We present data from a Forbush decrease observed by HAWC following a significant coronal mass ejection in April 2013, and describe our efforts to remove atmospheric variations from the scaler counts. This work was partially supported by the National Science Foundation’s REU program through NSF Award AST-1004881 to the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Polymer blends used to develop felodipine-loaded hollow microspheres for improved oral bioavailability.

PubMed

Pi, Chao; Feng, Ting; Liang, Jing; Liu, Hao; Huang, Dongmei; Zhan, Chenglin; Yuan, Jiyuan; Lee, Robert J; Zhao, Ling; Wei, Yumeng

2018-06-01

Felodipine (FD) has been widely used in anti-hypertensive treatment. However, it has extremely low aqueous solubility and poor bioavailability. To address these problems, FD hollow microspheres as multiple-unit dosage forms were synthesized by a solvent diffusion evaporation method. Particle size of the hollow microspheres, types of ethylcellulose (EC), amounts of EC, polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP) and FD were investigated based on an orthogonal experiment of three factors and three levels. In addition, the release kinetics in vitro and pharmacokinetics in beagle dogs of the optimized FD hollow microspheres was investigated and compared with Plendil (commercial FD sustained-release tablets) as a single-unit dosage form. Results showed that the optimal formulation was composed of EC 10 cp :PVP:FD (0.9:0.16:0.36, w/w). The FD hollow microspheres were globular with a hollow structure and have high drug loading (17.69±0.44%) and floating rate (93.82±4.05%) in simulated human gastric fluid after 24h. Pharmacokinetic data showed that FD hollow microspheres exhibited sustained-release behavior and significantly improved relative bioavailability of FD compared with the control. Pharmacodynamic study showed that the FD hollow microspheres could effectively lower blood pressure. Therefore, these findings demonstrated that the hollow microspheres were an effective sustained-release delivery system for FD. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Association of the Serotonin Receptor 3E Gene as a Functional Variant in the MicroRNA-510 Target Site with Diarrhea Predominant Irritable Bowel Syndrome in Chinese Women.

PubMed

Zhang, Yu; Li, Yaoyao; Hao, Zhenfeng; Li, Xiangming; Bo, Ping; Gong, Weijuan

2016-04-30

The functional variant (rs56109847) in the 3'-untranslated regions (3'-UTR) of the serotonin receptor 3E (HTR3E) gene is associated with female diarrhea predominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-D) in British populations. However, the relationship of the polymorphism both to HTR3E expression in the intestine and to the occurrence of Chinese functional gastrointestinal disorders has yet to be examined. Polymerase chain reaction amplification and restriction fragment length polymorphism analyses were employed to detect polymorphisms among Chinese Han women, particularly 107 patients with IBS-D, 99 patients with functional dyspepsia (FD), 115 patients with mixed IBS and 69 patients with IBS-D + FD. We also assessed microRNA-510 (miR-510) and HTR3Eexpression in human colonic mucosal tissues with immunohistochemistry and other methods. Dual-luciferase reporter assays were conducted to examine the binding ability of miR-510 and HTR3E 3'-UTR. Genotyping data showed the variant rs56109847 was significantly associated with IBS-D, but not with FD, mixed-IBS, or FD + IBS-D. HTR3E was abundantly expressed around the colonic mucosal glands but less expressed in the stroma. miR-510 expression decreased, whereas HTR3E expression increased in the colonic mucosal tissue of patients with IBS-D compared with those in controls. HTR3E expression was significantly higher in patients with the GA genotype than that in patients with the GG genotype. The single-nucleotide polymorphisms disrupted the binding site of miR-510 and significantly upregulated luciferase expression in HEK293 and HT-29 cells. The single-nucleotide polymorphisms rs56109847 led to reduced microRNA binding and overexpression of the target gene in intestinal cells, thereby increasing IBS-D risk in the Chinese Han population. The decreased expression of miR-510 might contribute to IBS-D.

Impact of space flight on cardiovascular autonomic control

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Beckers, F.; Verheyden, B.; Morukov, B.; Aubert, Ae

Introduction: Space flight alters the distribution of blood in the human body, leading to altered cardiovascular neurohumoral regulation with a blunted carotid-cardiac baroreflex. These changes contribute to the occurrence of orthostatic intolerance after space flight. Heart rate variability (HRV) and blood pressure variability (BPV) provide non-invasive means to study the autonomic modulation of the heart. Low frequency (LF) oscillations provide information about sympathetic modulation and baroreflex, while high frequency (HF) modulation is an index of vagal heart rate modulation. Methods: ECG and continuous blood pressure were measured for at least 10 minutes in supine, sitting and standing position 45 days and 10 days (L-45, L-10) before launch; and at 1, 2, 4, 9, 15, 19 and 25 days after return to earth (R+x). In space, ECG and continuous blood pressure were measured at day 5 (FD5) and day 8 (FD8). These measurements were performed in 3. HRV and BPV indices were calculated in time and frequency domain. Results: Measurements in supine position and sitting position did not show as high differences as the measurements in standing position. During space flight heart rate was significantly lower compared to the pre- and post-flight measurements in standing position (RR-values: L-45: 837± 42 ms; FD5: 1004± 40 ms; FD8: 1038± 53 ms; R+1: 587± 21 ms; p<0.05). This was accompanied by a significant increase in the proportion of HF power during space flight and a decrease in LF power. Immediately after space flight both LF and HF modulation of heart rate were extremely depressed compared to the pre-flight conditions (p<0.005). A gradual recovery towards baseline conditions of both indices was observed up to 25 days after return from space (LF: L-45: 3297± 462 ms2; FD5: 1251± 332 ms2; FD8: 1322± 462 ms2; R+1: 547± 188 ms2; R+4: 1958± 709 ms2; R+9: 1220± 148 ms2; R+15: 1704± 497 ms2; R+25: 2644± 573 ms2). However, even 25 days after return, values were below baseline condition. Mean systolic blood pressure did not differ significantly before during and after space flight. In space both LF and HF were decreased compared the standing measurements pre- and post-flight. No evolution was present in BPV after return to Earth. Conclusion: During space flight autonomic modulation is characterised by a vagal predominance. Immediately after return to Earth overall autonomic modulation is extremely depressed. Vasomotor autonomic control is restored rather quickly after space flight, while the restoration of autonomic modulation of heart rate is very slow.

3'-Azido-2',3'-dideoxythymidine induced deficiency of thymidine kinases 1, 2 and deoxycytidine kinase in H9 T-lymphoid cells.

PubMed

Gröschel, Bettina; Kaufmann, Andreas; Höver, Gerold; Cinatl, Jaroslav; Doerr, Hans Wilhelm; Noordhuis, Paul; Loves, Willem J P; Peters, Godefridus J; Cinatl, Jindrich

2002-07-15

Continuous cultivation of T-lymphoid H9 cells in the presence of 3'-azido-2',3'-dideoxythymidine (AZT) resulted in a cell variant cross-resistant to both thymidine and deoxycytidine analogs. Cytotoxic effects of AZT, 2',3'-didehydro-3'-deoxythymidine as well as different deoxycytidine analogs such as 2',3'-dideoxycytidine, 2',2'-difluoro-2'-deoxycytidine (dFdC) and 1-ss-D-arabinofuranosylcytosine (Ara-C) were strongly reduced in H9 cells continuously exposed to AZT when compared to parental cells (>8.3-, >6.6-, >9.1-, 5 x 10(4)-, 5 x 10(3)-fold, respectively). Moreover, anti-HIV-1 effects of AZT, d4T, ddC and 2',3'-dideoxy-3'-thiacytidine (3TC) were significantly diminished (>222-, >25-, >400-, >200-fold, respectively) in AZT-resistant H9 cells. Study of cellular mechanisms responsible for cross-resistance to pyrimidine analogs in AZT-resistant H9 cells revealed decreased mRNA levels of thymidine kinase 1 (TK1) and lack of deoxycytidine kinase (dCK) mRNA expression. The loss of dCK gene expression was confirmed by western blot analysis of dCK protein as well as dCK enzyme activity assay. Moreover, enzyme activity of TK1 and TK2 was reduced in AZT-resistant cells. In order to determine whether lack of dCK affected the formation of the active triphosphate of the deoxycytidine analog dFdC, dFdCTP accumulation and retention was measured in H9 parental and AZT-resistant cells after exposure to 1 and 10 microM dFdC. Parental H9 cells accumulated about 30 and 100 pmol dFdCTP/10(6) cells after 4hr, whereas in AZT-resistant cells no dFdCTP accumulation was detected. These results demonstrate that continuous treatment of H9 cells in the presence of AZT selected for a thymidine analog resistant cell variant with cross-resistance to deoxycytidine analogs, due to deficiency in TK1, TK2, and dCK.

Energetic basis on interactions between ferredoxin and ferredoxin NADP{sup +} reductase at varying physiological conditions

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

Kinoshita, Misaki; Kim, Ju Yaen; Kume, Satoshi

In spite of a number of studies to characterize ferredoxin (Fd):ferredoxin NADP{sup +} reductase (FNR) interactions at limited conditions, detailed energetic investigation on how these proteins interact under near physiological conditions and its linkage to FNR activity are still lacking. We herein performed systematic Fd:FNR binding thermodynamics using isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) at distinct pH (6.0 and 8.0), NaCl concentrations (0–200 mM), and temperatures (19–28 °C) for mimicking physiological conditions in chloroplasts. Energetically unfavorable endothermic enthalpy changes were accompanied by Fd:FNR complexation at all conditions. This energetic cost was compensated by favorable entropy changes, balanced by conformational and hydrational entropy. Increases inmore » the NaCl concentration and pH weakened interprotein affinity due to the less contribution of favorable entropy change regardless of energetic gains from enthalpy changes, suggesting that entropy drove complexation and modulated affinity. Effects of temperature on binding thermodynamics were much smaller than those of pH and NaCl. NaCl concentration and pH-dependent enthalpy and heat capacity changes provided clues for distinct binding modes. Moreover, decreases in the enthalpy level in the Hammond's postulate-based energy landscape implicated kinetic advantages for FNR activity. All these energetic interplays were comprehensively demonstrated by the driving force plot with the enthalpy-entropy compensation which may serve as an energetic buffer against outer stresses. We propose that high affinity at pH 6.0 may be beneficial for protection from proteolysis of Fd and FNR in rest states, and moderate affinity at pH 8.0 and proper NaCl concentrations with smaller endothermic enthalpy changes may contribute to increase FNR activity. - Highlights: • Energetics of Fd:FNR binding were examined by considering physiological conditions. • NaCl and pH affect energetically Fd:FNR binding with minimal effects of temperature. • Enthalpy and heat capacity may modulate binding kinetics and modes for FNR activity. • Entropy drives complexation by overcoming unfavorable enthalpy and tunes affinity. • Driving force plot reveals condition-dependent energetic interplays for complexation.« less

With a little help from my kin: barn swallow nestlings modulate solicitation of parental care according to nestmates' need.

PubMed

Romano, Andrea; Caprioli, M; Boncoraglio, G; Saino, N; Rubolini, D

2012-09-01

In altricial species, offspring competing for access to limiting parental resources (e.g. food) are selected to achieve an optimal balance between the costs of scrambling for food, the benefits of being fed and the indirect costs of subtracting food to relatives. As the marginal benefits of acquiring additional food decrease with decreasing levels of need, satiated offspring should be prone to favour access to food by their needy kin, thus enhancing their own indirect fitness, while concomitantly reducing costs of harsh competition with hungry broodmates. We tested this prediction in feeding trials of barn swallow (Hirundo rustica) nestlings by comparing begging behaviour and food intake of two similar-sized nestmates, one of which was food-deprived (FD). Non-food-deprived (NFD) offspring modulated begging intensity depending on their nestmate's need: when competing with FD nestmates, NFD nestlings reduced both the intensity and frequency of begging displays compared to themselves in the control trial before food deprivation. Hence, NFD nestlings reduced their competitiveness to the advantage of FD nestmates, which obtained more feedings and showed a threefold larger increase in body mass. Moderation of individual selfishness can therefore be adaptive in the presence of a needier kin, because the indirect fitness benefits of promoting its condition can outweigh the costs of forgoing being fed, and because it limits the cost of begging escalation against a vigorous competitor. © 2012 The Authors. Journal of Evolutionary Biology © 2012 European Society For Evolutionary Biology.

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

Qi, Zhi; Pan, Chungen; Lu, Hong

Research highlights: {yields} One recombinant mimetics of gp41 prehairpin fusion intermediate (PFI) consisting of gp41 N46 sequence, foldon and IgG Fc, designated N46FdFc, was expressed. {yields} N46FdFc-induced antibodies in mice that neutralized HIV-1 infection, inhibited PIE7 binding to PFI, blocked gp41 six-helix bundle formation, and suppressed HIV-1 mediated cell-cell fusion. {yields} These findings provide an important clue for developing recombinant gp41 PFI mimetics-based HIV vaccines. -- Abstract: HIV-1 gp41 prehairpin fusion intermediate (PFI) composed of three N-terminal heptad repeats (NHR) plays a crucial role in viral fusion and entry and represents an attractive target for anti-HIV therapeutics (e.g., enfuvirtide) andmore » vaccines. In present study, we constructed and expressed two recombinant gp41 PFI mimetics, designated N46Fd and N46FdFc. N46Fd consists of N46 (residues 536-581) in gp41 NHR and foldon (Fd), a trimerization motif. N46FdFc is composed of N46Fd fused with human IgG Fc fragment as an immunoenhancer. We immunized mice with N46 peptide, N46Fd and N46FdFc, respectively, and found that only N46FdFc elicited neutralizing antibody response in mice against infection by HIV-1 strains IIIB (clade B, X4), 92US657 (clade B, R5), and 94UG103 (clade A, X4R5). Anti-N46FdFc antibodies inhibited PIE7 binding to PFI, blocked gp41 six-helix bundle formation, and suppressed HIV-1 mediated cell-cell fusion. These findings provide an important clue for developing recombinant gp41 PFI mimetics-based HIV vaccines.« less

The Spatial and Seasonal Variability in Fine Mineral Dust and Coarse Mass Concentrations at Remote Sites across the United States

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hand, J. L.; White, W. H.; Hyslop, N. P.; Schichtel, B. A.; Gill, T. E.

2016-12-01

Mineral dust influences air quality, visibility, health, hydrology, heterogeneous chemistry, biogeochemistry, ecology, and climate. The spatial and seasonal variability of fine (PM2.5) mineral dust (FD, mineral particles with diameters less than 2.5 µm) and coarse mass (CM, mass of particles with diameters between 2.5 and 10 µm) were characterized at over 160 rural and remote sites in the United States from the Interagency Monitoring of Protected Visual Environments (IMPROVE) network. Monthly, seasonal, and annual means were computed for 2011 through 2014 to investigate the spatial and seasonal variability of FD and CM. Regions with significant FD included the Southwest in spring (≥ 50% contributions to PM2.5 mass) and in the Midwest, Midsouth, and Southeast regions in summer (20-30% of PM2.5 mass). The seasonality of FD and CM decoupled farther from local source regions suggesting long-range transport of FD or non-dust related CM. FD mineralogy was also explored and confirmed the seasonal and regional impacts of long-range transport. Temporal trends in FD from 2000-2014 revealed regions and seasons with significantly increased FD, especially the Southwest during spring months, the central United States during summer and fall, and the Southeast in summer—all regions that were associated with significant contributions of FD to PM2.5 mass. Positive trends in FD contrast negative trends in other major aerosol species over the same time periods, further enhancing the relative importance of FD to PM2.5 mass. Increased levels of FD have important implications for its environmental and climate impacts; mitigating these impacts will require identifying and characterizing source regions and causal mechanisms for dust episodes in order to better inform resource management decisions.

Brain magnetic resonance imaging findings fail to suspect Fabry disease in young patients with an acute cerebrovascular event.

PubMed

Fazekas, Franz; Enzinger, Christian; Schmidt, Reinhold; Grittner, Ulrike; Giese, Anne-Katrin; Hennerici, Michael G; Huber, Roman; Jungehulsing, Gerhard J; Kaps, Manfred; Kessler, Christof; Martus, Peter; Putaala, Jukka; Ropele, Stefan; Tanislav, Christian; Tatlisumak, Turgut; Thijs, Vincent; von Sarnowski, Bettina; Norrving, Bo; Rolfs, Arndt

2015-06-01

Fabry disease (FD) may cause stroke and is reportedly associated with typical brain findings on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). In a large group of young patients with an acute cerebrovascular event, we wanted to test whether brain MRI findings can serve to suggest the presence of FD. The Stroke in Young Fabry Patients (SIFAP 1) study prospectively collected clinical, laboratory, and radiological data of 5023 patients (18-55 years) with an acute cerebrovascular event. Their MRI was interpreted centrally and blinded to all other information. Biochemical findings and genetic testing served to diagnose FD in 45 (0.9%) patients. We compared the imaging findings between FD and non-FD patients in patients with at least a T2-weighted MRI of good quality. A total of 3203 (63.8%) patients had the required MRI data set. Among those were 34 patients with a diagnosis of FD (1.1%), which was definite in 21 and probable in 13 cases. The median age of patients with FD was slightly lower (45 versus 46 years) and women prevailed (70.6% versus 40.7%; P<0.001). Presence or extent of white matter hyperintensities, infarct localization, vertebrobasilar artery dilatation, T1-signal hyperintensity of the pulvinar thalami, or any other MRI finding did not distinguish patients with FD from non-FD cerebrovascular event patients. Pulvinar hyperintensity was not present in a single patient with FD but seen in 6 non-FD patients. Brain MRI findings cannot serve to suspect FD in young patients presenting with an acute cerebrovascular event. This deserves consideration in the search for possible causes of young patients with stroke. URL: http://www.clinicaltrials.gov. Unique identifier: NCT00414583. © 2015 American Heart Association, Inc.

Confocal Adaptive Optics Imaging of Peripapillary Nerve Fiber Bundles: Implications for Glaucomatous Damage Seen on Circumpapillary OCT Scans.

PubMed

Hood, Donald C; Chen, Monica F; Lee, Dongwon; Epstein, Benjamin; Alhadeff, Paula; Rosen, Richard B; Ritch, Robert; Dubra, Alfredo; Chui, Toco Y P

2015-04-01

To improve our understanding of glaucomatous damage as seen on circumpapillary disc scans obtained with frequency-domain optical coherence tomography (fdOCT), fdOCT scans were compared to images of the peripapillary retinal nerve fiber (RNF) bundles obtained with an adaptive optics-scanning light ophthalmoscope (AO-SLO). The AO-SLO images and fdOCT scans were obtained on 6 eyes of 6 patients with deep arcuate defects (5 points ≤-15 db) on 10-2 visual fields. The AO-SLO images were montaged and aligned with the fdOCT images to compare the RNF bundles seen with AO-SLO to the RNF layer thickness measured with fdOCT. All 6 eyes had an abnormally thin (1% confidence limit) RNF layer (RNFL) on fdOCT and abnormal (hyporeflective) regions of RNF bundles on AO-SLO in corresponding regions. However, regions of abnormal, but equal, RNFL thickness on fdOCT scans varied in appearance on AO-SLO images. These regions could be largely devoid of RNF bundles (5 eyes), have abnormal-appearing bundles of lower contrast (6 eyes), or have isolated areas with a few relatively normal-appearing bundles (2 eyes). There also were local variations in reflectivity of the fdOCT RNFL that corresponded to the variations in AO-SLO RNF bundle appearance. Relatively similar 10-2 defects with similar fdOCT RNFL thickness profiles can have very different degrees of RNF bundle damage as seen on fdOCT and AO-SLO. While the results point to limitations of fdOCT RNFL thickness as typically analyzed, they also illustrate the potential for improving fdOCT by attending to variations in local intensity.

ROLES OF ADIPOCYTES AND FIBROBLASTS IN ACTIVATION OF THE ALTERNATIVE PATHWAY OF COMPLEMENT IN INFLAMMATORY ARTHRITIS IN MICE

PubMed Central

Arend, William P.; Mehta, Gaurav; Antonioli, Alexandra H.; Takahashi, Minoru; Takahashi, Kazue; Stahl, Gregory L.; Holers, V. Michael; Banda, Nirmal K.

2013-01-01

The complement system is involved in mediation of joint damage in rheumatoid arthritis, with evidence suggesting activation of both the classical and alternative pathways (AP). The AP is both necessary and sufficient to mediate collagen antibody-induced arthritis (CAIA), an experimental animal model of immune complex (IC)-induced joint disease. The AP in mice is dependent on MASP-1/3 cleavage of pro-factor D (pro-FD) into mature FD. The objectives of the present study were to determine the cells synthesizing MASP-1/3 and pro-FD in synovial tissue. CAIA was studied in wild-type C57BL/6 mice, and the localization of mRNA and protein for FD and MASP-1/3 in synovial adipose tissue (SAT) and fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS) was determined using various techniques, including laser capture micro-dissection (LCM). SAT was the sole source of mRNA for pro-FD. Cultured differentiated 3T3 adipocytes, a surrogate for SAT, produced pro-FD but no mature FD. FLS were the main source of MASP-1/3 mRNA and protein. Using cartilage micro-particles (CMP) coated with anti-collagen mAb and serum from MASP-1/3−/− mice as a source of factor B, pro-FD in 3T3 supernatants was cleaved into mature FD by MASP-1/3 in FLS supernatants. The mature FD was eluted from the CMP, and was not present in the supernatants from the incubation with CMP, indicating that cleavage of pro-FD into mature FD by MASP-1 occurred on the CMP. These results demonstrate that pathogenic activation of the AP may occur in the joint through IC adherent to cartilage and the local production of necessary AP proteins by adipocytes and FLS. PMID:23650618

Effect of drying methods (microwave vacuum, freeze, hot air and sun drying) on physical, chemical and nutritional attributes of five pepper (Capsicum annuum var. annuum) cultivars.

PubMed

Maurya, Vaibhav Kumar; Gothandam, Kodiveri Muthukaliannan; Ranjan, Vijay; Shakya, Amita; Pareek, Sunil

2018-07-01

A randomized block design experiment was performed to investigate the influence of drying on the physical, chemical and nutritional quality attributes of five prominent cultivars of India under sun drying (SD) (mean temperature 35.5 °C, average daily radiation 5.26 kW h m -2 and mean relative humidity 73.66% RH), hot air drying (HD) at 65 °C, microwave vacuum drying (MVD) (800 W, 5 kPa) and freeze drying (FD) (-50 °C, 5 kPa). Water activity, pH, total phenolic content (TPC), ascorbic acid (AA), capsaicin, β-carotene, color and Scoville heat unit were studied. TPC, AA, capsaicin content, β-carotene, color and water activity were significantly affected by the drying method. FD was observed to be most efficient in minimizing the loss of color, capsaicin and β-carotene. The hotness of analyzed samples decreased in the order 'Bird's Eye' > 'Sannam S4' > 'CO-4' > 'PLR-1' > 'PKM-1' among the studied cultivars, and FD > MVD > HD > SD among the drying methods. The FD method was observed to be the most efficient drying method for retaining capsaicin content over other drying methods (SD, HD, MVD), whereas MVD was found to be most efficient in minimizing the loss to nutritional attributes for all five pepper cultivars. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry.

Gastric emptying and related symptoms in patients treated with buspirone, amitriptyline or clebopride: a "real world" study by 13C-octanoic Acid Breath Test.

PubMed

Caviglia, Gian P; Sguazzini, Carlo; Cisarò, Fabio; Ribaldone, Davide G; Rosso, Chiara; Fagoonee, Sharmila; Smedile, Antonina; Saracco, Giorgio M; Astegiano, Marco; Pellicano, Rinaldo

2017-12-01

Gastric motility is a key-factor in the pathogenesis of functional dyspepsia (FD). 13C-octanoic Acid Breath Test (OBT) is a tool used for measuring gastric emptying time in clinical setting. We aimed to investigate the variation in FD symptoms and OBT parameters after treatment with buspirone, amitriptyline or clebopride. Between Jan-2007 and Dec-2014, we enrolled 59 patients with FD unresponsive to first-line therapy with proton pump inhibitors and/or domperidone that underwent OBT before and after 3 months of buspirone (N.=32), amitriptyline (N.=16) or clebopride (N.=11) treatment. Early satiation severity was positively correlated with gastric half emptying time (t1/2) (r=0.3789, P=0.003) and gastric lag phase (r=0.3371, P=0.011), and negatively correlated with gastric emptying coefficient (r=-0.3231, P=0.015). A reduction in t1/2 measurement in association to postprandial fullness, and early satiation severity improvement was observed (P=0.009, P=0.005 and P<0.001, respectively). Patients treated with buspirone obtained both a decrease in t1/2 (P=0.005) and an amelioration in early satiation (P=0.001). Patients under amitriptyline treatment experienced an improvement in postprandial fullness (P=0.046), whereas no variation was reported in patients treated with clebopride. Patients with FD, non-responders to first-line therapy and reporting meal-related discomfort, may benefit from buspirone or amitriptyline-based therapies.

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

Flanagan, Sheryl A., E-mail: sflan@umich.edu; Cooper, Kristin S.; Mannava, Sudha

Purpose: To determine the effect of short hairpin ribonucleic acid (shRNA)-mediated suppression of thymidylate synthase (TS) on cytotoxicity and radiosensitization and the mechanism by which these events occur. Methods and Materials: shRNA suppression of TS was compared with 5-fluoro-2 Prime -deoxyuridine (FdUrd) inactivation of TS with or without ionizing radiation in HCT116 and HT29 colon cancer cells. Cytotoxicity and radiosensitization were measured by clonogenic assay. Cell cycle effects were measured by flow cytometry. The effects of FdUrd or shRNA suppression of TS on dNTP deoxynucleotide triphosphate imbalances and consequent nucleotide misincorporations into deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) were analyzed by high-pressure liquidmore » chromatography and as pSP189 plasmid mutations, respectively. Results: TS shRNA produced profound ({>=}90%) and prolonged ({>=}8 days) suppression of TS in HCT116 and HT29 cells, whereas FdUrd increased TS expression. TS shRNA also produced more specific and prolonged effects on dNTPs deoxynucleotide triphosphates compared with FdUrd. TS shRNA suppression allowed accumulation of cells in S-phase, although its effects were not as long-lasting as those of FdUrd. Both treatments resulted in phosphorylation of Chk1. TS shRNA alone was less cytotoxic than FdUrd but was equally effective as FdUrd in eliciting radiosensitization (radiation enhancement ratio: TS shRNA, 1.5-1.7; FdUrd, 1.4-1.6). TS shRNA and FdUrd produced a similar increase in the number and type of pSP189 mutations. Conclusions: TS shRNA produced less cytotoxicity than FdUrd but was equally effective at radiosensitizing tumor cells. Thus, the inhibitory effect of FdUrd on TS alone is sufficient to elicit radiosensitization with FdUrd, but it only partially explains FdUrd-mediated cytotoxicity and cell cycle inhibition. The increase in DNA mismatches after TS shRNA or FdUrd supports a causal and sufficient role for the depletion of dTTP thymidine triphosphate and consequent DNA mismatches underlying radiosensitization. Importantly, shRNA suppression of TS avoids FP-mediated TS elevation and its negative prognostic role. These studies support the further exploration of TS suppression as a novel radiosensitizing strategy.« less

Contrasting Strategies of Alfalfa Stem Elongation in Response to Fall Dormancy in Early Growth Stage: The Tradeoff between Internode Length and Internode Number

PubMed Central

Wang, Zongli; Sun, Qizhong

2015-01-01

Fall dormancy (FD) in alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) can be described using 11 FD ratings, is widely used as an important indicator of stress resistance, productive performance and spring growth. However, the contrasting growth strategies in internode length and internode number in alfalfa cultivars with different FD rating are poorly understood. Here, a growth chamber study was conducted to investigate the effect of FD on plant height, aboveground biomass, internode length, and internode number in alfalfa individuals in the early growth stages. In order to simulate the alfalfa growth environment in the early stage, 11 alfalfa cultivars with FD ratings from one to 11 were chosen and seeded at the greenhouse, and then were transplanted into an artificial growth chamber. The experimental design was a randomized complete block in a split-plot arrangement with three replicates. Plant height, above-ground biomass, internode length, and internode number were measured in early growth stage in all individuals. Our findings showed that plant height and the aboveground biomass of alfalfa did not significantly differ among 11 different FD rated cultivars. Also, internode length and internode number positively affected plant height and the aboveground biomass of alfalfa individuals and the average internode length significantly increased with increasing FD rating. However, internode number tended to sharply decline when the FD rating increased. Moreover, there were no correlations, slightly negative correlations, and strongly negative correlations between internode length and internode number in alfalfa individuals among the three scales, including within-FD ratings, within-FD categories and inter-FD ratings, respectively. Therefore, our results highlighted that contrasting growth strategies in stem elongation were adopted by alfalfa with different FD ratings in the early growth stage. Alfalfa cultivars with a high FD rating have longer internodes, whereas more dormant alfalfa cultivars have a larger number of internodes. There were tradeoffs between internode length and internode number in response to FD in alfalfa, which reflected certain scale-dependence. PMID:26281014

Cyclopentenyl cytosine increases gemcitabine radiosensitisation in human pancreatic cancer cells

PubMed Central

van Bree, C; Rodermond, H M; Leen, R; Medema, J P; van Kuilenburg, A B P

2008-01-01

The deoxycytidine analogue 2′,2′-difluoro-2′-deoxycytidine (dFdC, gemcitabine) is a potent radiosensitiser, but has limited efficacy in combination with radiotherapy in patients with pancreatic cancer due to acute toxicity. We investigated whether cyclopentenyl cytosine (CPEC), targetting the ‘de novo' biosynthesis of cytidine triphosphate (CTP), could increase dFdC cytotoxicity alone or in combination with irradiation in a panel of human pancreatic cancer cells (Panc-1, Miapaca-2, BxPC-3). To investigate the role of deoxycytidine kinase (dCK), the rate-limiting enzyme in the activation of dFdC, human lung cancer cells without (dFdC-resistant SWg) and with an intact dCK gene (dFdC-sensitive SWp) were included. We found that CPEC (100–1000 nmol l−1) specifically reduced CTP levels in a dose-dependent manner that lasted up to 72 h in all cell lines. Preincubation with CPEC resulted in a dose-dependent increase in dFdC incorporated into the DNA only in dFdC-sensitive cells. Consequently, CPEC increased the effectiveness of dFdC (300 nmol l−1 for 4 h) only in dFdC-sensitive cells, which was accompanied by an increase in apoptosis. We also found that CPEC enhanced the radiosensitivity of cells treated with dFdC (30–300 nmol l−1 for 4 h). These results indicate that CPEC enhances the cytotoxicity of dFdC alone and in combination with irradiation in several human tumour cell lines with an intact dCK gene. PMID:18349845

Faculty's Perception of Faculty Development

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Premkumar, Kalyani; Moshynskyy, Anton; Sakai, Damon H.; Fong, Sheri F. T.

2017-01-01

Faculty Development (FD) is a vital component across the medical education continuum of undergraduate, postgraduate, and continuing medical education. However, the positioning of FD in medical institutions varies widely. The perceptions of faculty on FD should be examined in order to provide effective FD. The perceptions of faculty involved in…

Reliability of Using Retinal Vascular Fractal Dimension as a Biomarker in the Diabetic Retinopathy Detection

PubMed Central

Zhang, Jiong; Bekkers, Erik; Abbasi-Sureshjani, Samaneh

2016-01-01

The retinal fractal dimension (FD) is a measure of vasculature branching pattern complexity. FD has been considered as a potential biomarker for the detection of several diseases like diabetes and hypertension. However, conflicting findings were found in the reported literature regarding the association between this biomarker and diseases. In this paper, we examine the stability of the FD measurement with respect to (1) different vessel annotations obtained from human observers, (2) automatic segmentation methods, (3) various regions of interest, (4) accuracy of vessel segmentation methods, and (5) different imaging modalities. Our results demonstrate that the relative errors for the measurement of FD are significant and FD varies considerably according to the image quality, modality, and the technique used for measuring it. Automated and semiautomated methods for the measurement of FD are not stable enough, which makes FD a deceptive biomarker in quantitative clinical applications. PMID:27703803

Reliability of Using Retinal Vascular Fractal Dimension as a Biomarker in the Diabetic Retinopathy Detection.

PubMed

Huang, Fan; Dashtbozorg, Behdad; Zhang, Jiong; Bekkers, Erik; Abbasi-Sureshjani, Samaneh; Berendschot, Tos T J M; Ter Haar Romeny, Bart M

2016-01-01

The retinal fractal dimension (FD) is a measure of vasculature branching pattern complexity. FD has been considered as a potential biomarker for the detection of several diseases like diabetes and hypertension. However, conflicting findings were found in the reported literature regarding the association between this biomarker and diseases. In this paper, we examine the stability of the FD measurement with respect to (1) different vessel annotations obtained from human observers, (2) automatic segmentation methods, (3) various regions of interest, (4) accuracy of vessel segmentation methods, and (5) different imaging modalities. Our results demonstrate that the relative errors for the measurement of FD are significant and FD varies considerably according to the image quality, modality, and the technique used for measuring it. Automated and semiautomated methods for the measurement of FD are not stable enough, which makes FD a deceptive biomarker in quantitative clinical applications.

21 CFR 74.340 - FD&C Red No. 40.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES GENERAL LISTING OF COLOR ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Foods § 74.340 FD&C Red No. 40. (a) Identity. (1) The color additive FD&C...-naphthalenesulfonic acid. (2) Color additive mixtures for food use (including dietary supplements) made with FD&C Red...

21 CFR 74.203 - FD&C Green No. 3.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES GENERAL LISTING OF COLOR ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Foods § 74.203 FD&C Green No. 3. (a) Identity. (1) The color additive FD... mixtures for coloring food. (b) Specifications. The color additive FD&C Green No. 3 shall conform to the...

21 CFR 74.706 - FD&C Yellow No. 6.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES GENERAL LISTING OF COLOR ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Foods § 74.706 FD&C Yellow No. 6. (a) Identity. (1) The color additive FD...) Color additive mixtures for food use made with FD&C Yellow No. 6 may contain only those diluents that...

21 CFR 74.203 - FD&C Green No. 3.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES GENERAL LISTING OF COLOR ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Foods § 74.203 FD&C Green No. 3. (a) Identity. (1) The color additive FD... mixtures for coloring food. (b) Specifications. The color additive FD&C Green No. 3 shall conform to the...

21 CFR 74.705 - FD&C Yellow No. 5.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES GENERAL LISTING OF COLOR ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Foods § 74.705 FD&C Yellow No. 5. (a) Identity. (1) The color additive FD... salt. (2) Color additive mixtures for food use made with FD&C Yellow No. 5 may contain only those...

21 CFR 74.706 - FD&C Yellow No. 6.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES GENERAL LISTING OF COLOR ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Foods § 74.706 FD&C Yellow No. 6. (a) Identity. (1) The color additive FD...) Color additive mixtures for food use made with FD&C Yellow No. 6 may contain only those diluents that...

21 CFR 74.706 - FD&C Yellow No. 6.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES GENERAL LISTING OF COLOR ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Foods § 74.706 FD&C Yellow No. 6. (a) Identity. (1) The color additive FD...) Color additive mixtures for food use made with FD&C Yellow No. 6 may contain only those diluents that...

21 CFR 74.706 - FD&C Yellow No. 6.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES GENERAL LISTING OF COLOR ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Foods § 74.706 FD&C Yellow No. 6. (a) Identity. (1) The color additive FD...) Color additive mixtures for food use made with FD&C Yellow No. 6 may contain only those diluents that...

21 CFR 74.340 - FD&C Red No. 40.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES GENERAL LISTING OF COLOR ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Foods § 74.340 FD&C Red No. 40. (a) Identity. (1) The color additive FD&C...-naphthalenesulfonic acid. (2) Color additive mixtures for food use (including dietary supplements) made with FD&C Red...

21 CFR 74.705 - FD&C Yellow No. 5.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES GENERAL LISTING OF COLOR ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Foods § 74.705 FD&C Yellow No. 5. (a) Identity. (1) The color additive FD... salt. (2) Color additive mixtures for food use made with FD&C Yellow No. 5 may contain only those...

21 CFR 74.340 - FD&C Red No. 40.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES GENERAL LISTING OF COLOR ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Foods § 74.340 FD&C Red No. 40. (a) Identity. (1) The color additive FD&C...-naphthalenesulfonic acid. (2) Color additive mixtures for food use (including dietary supplements) made with FD&C Red...

21 CFR 74.203 - FD&C Green No. 3.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES GENERAL LISTING OF COLOR ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Foods § 74.203 FD&C Green No. 3. (a) Identity. (1) The color additive FD... mixtures for coloring food. (b) Specifications. The color additive FD&C Green No. 3 shall conform to the...

21 CFR 74.706 - FD&C Yellow No. 6.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES GENERAL LISTING OF COLOR ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Foods § 74.706 FD&C Yellow No. 6. (a) Identity. (1) The color additive FD...) Color additive mixtures for food use made with FD&C Yellow No. 6 may contain only those diluents that...

21 CFR 74.705 - FD&C Yellow No. 5.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES GENERAL LISTING OF COLOR ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Foods § 74.705 FD&C Yellow No. 5. (a) Identity. (1) The color additive FD... salt. (2) Color additive mixtures for food use made with FD&C Yellow No. 5 may contain only those...

Cognitive Style FD/I: An Important Learner Characteristic for Educational Technologists.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Chinien, Chris A.; Boutin, France

1993-01-01

Reviews the literature on the cognitive style field dependent/field independent (FD/FI) and suggests implications for educational technologists in their efforts to address individual differences among learners during the instructional design process that would narrow the differential learning gain between FD and FI learners. Testing for FD/FI is…

Cognitive emotion regulation strategies in patients with functional dyspepsia and healthy controls - A comparative study

PubMed Central

Mazaheri, Mina; Afshar, Hamid; Nikneshan, Shekoufeh; Adibi, Peyman

2016-01-01

Background: Patients with functional dyspepsia (FD) may use specific coping strategies. Hence, the aim of the present study was to compare cognitive emotion regulation strategies in FD patients and healthy controls. Materials and Methods: This was a descriptive observational study. The sample consisted of 86 individuals, 43 of whom were patients diagnosed with FD. The patients referred to the psychosomatic disorders clinic, Isfahan, Iran. The comparative sample included 43 healthy controls (without digestive diagnoses) matched with the patients by age and gender. Subjects completed data on demographic factors and cognitive emotion regulation questionnaire. Results: The results indicated that there are significant differences between patients with FD and healthy controls according to using cognitive strategies. Scores of healthy controls in positive reappraisal and acceptance were significantly more than FD patients, and inversely, scores of FD patients in rumination and other-blame were meaningfully more than healthy controls. Conclusion: FD patients apply less adaptive strategies and more maladaptive strategies. It is seemed psychological interventions that focus on reducing maladaptive strategies and increasing adaptive strategies could be effective for FD patients. PMID:28217634

Gene polymorphisms associated with functional dyspepsia.

PubMed

Kourikou, Anastasia; Karamanolis, George P; Dimitriadis, George D; Triantafyllou, Konstantinos

2015-07-07

Functional dyspepsia (FD) is a constellation of functional upper abdominal complaints with poorly elucidated pathophysiology. However, there is increasing evidence that susceptibility to FD is influenced by hereditary factors. Genetic association studies in FD have examined genotypes related to gastrointestinal motility or sensation, as well as those related to inflammation or immune response. G-protein b3 subunit gene polymorphisms were first reported as being associated with FD. Thereafter, several gene polymorphisms including serotonin transporter promoter, interlukin-17F, migration inhibitory factor, cholecystocynine-1 intron 1, cyclooxygenase-1, catechol-o-methyltransferase, transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 receptor, regulated upon activation normal T cell expressed and secreted, p22PHOX, Toll like receptor 2, SCN10A, CD14 and adrenoreceptors have been investigated in relation to FD; however, the results are contradictory. Several limitations underscore the value of current studies. Among others, inconsistencies in the definitions of FD and controls, subject composition differences regarding FD subtypes, inadequate samples, geographical and ethnical differences, as well as unadjusted environmental factors. Further well-designed studies are necessary to determine how targeted genes polymorphisms, influence the clinical manifestations and potentially the therapeutic response in FD.

Inhibition of cell signaling by the combi-nitrosourea FD137 in the androgen independent DU145 prostate cancer cell line.

PubMed

Qiu, Qiyu; Dudouit, Fabienne; Banerjee, Ranjita; McNamee, James P; Jean-Claude, Bertrand J

2004-04-01

FD137, a nitrosourea appended to a quinazoline ring, was designed to simultaneously block epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-mediated signaling and damage genomic DNA in refractory EGF-dependent prostate tumors. The mixed inhibition of cell signaling and DNA damage by FD137 were determined by Western blotting, RT-PCR, flow cytometry, sulforhodamine B (SRB), and comet assay. FD137 and its metabolite FD110 induced a dose-dependent increase in inhibition of EGF-stimulated EGFR autophosphorylation and this translated into blockade of c-fos gene expression in DU145 cells. FD137 induced significant levels of DNA damage and showed 150-fold greater anti-proliferative activity than BCNU, a classical nitrosourea. In contrast to BCNU, complete inhibition of EGF-induced cell transition to S-phase was observed at concentrations of FD137 as low as 3 microM. FD137 could not only damage DNA, but also significantly block downstream EGFR-mediated signaling. The superior activity of FD137 may be imputable to the combined effect of its mixed EGFR/DNA targeting properties. This novel strategy may well represent a new approach to target nitrosoureas to EGFR-overexpressing carcinomas of the prostate. Copyright 2004 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Father-child and mother-child interaction in families with a child feeding disorder: The role of paternal involvement.

PubMed

Atzaba-Poria, Naama; Meiri, Gal; Millikovsky, Maaian; Barkai, Anat; Dunaevsky-Idan, Maayan; Yerushalmi, Baruch

2010-11-01

To date, research about feeding disorder (FD) has focused almost exclusively on the mother-child dyad, ignoring fathers' roles. The current study investigated father-child interactions with children having FD. The sample consisted of 67 children (1-3 years old) and their mothers and fathers. Thirty-four children, diagnosed with a nonorganic-based FD (FD group) and 33 children without an FD (control group) were matched for age, gender, birth order, and maternal education. Data were collected during home visits. Mothers were interviewed about their and the father's involvement in childcare. In addition, mother-child and father-child interactions were videotaped during play and feeding. Both mothers and fathers from the FD group experienced less positive parent-child interactions than did parents in the control group. Furthermore, mothers in the FD group reported greater maternal versus paternal childcare involvement than did control group mothers. Finally, FD group mothers exhibited more parental sensitivity than did fathers during feeing interactions; however, this difference was observed only when coupled with low paternal involvement. In families where fathers were highly involved, no difference was evident in paternal and maternal sensitivity. These findings highlight the importance of fathers' involvement, especially in families with children exhibiting an FD. Copyright © 2010 Michigan Association for Infant Mental Health.

The genetics of fat distribution.

PubMed

Schleinitz, Dorit; Böttcher, Yvonne; Blüher, Matthias; Kovacs, Peter

2014-07-01

Fat stored in visceral depots makes obese individuals more prone to complications than subcutaneous fat. There is good evidence that body fat distribution (FD) is controlled by genetic factors. WHR, a surrogate measure of FD, shows significant heritability of up to ∼60%, even after adjusting for BMI. Genetic variants have been linked to various forms of altered FD such as lipodystrophies; however, the polygenic background of visceral obesity has only been sparsely investigated in the past. Recent genome-wide association studies (GWAS) for measures of FD revealed numerous loci harbouring genes potentially regulating FD. In addition, genes with fat depot-specific expression patterns (in particular subcutaneous vs visceral adipose tissue) provide plausible candidate genes involved in the regulation of FD. Many of these genes are differentially expressed in various fat compartments and correlate with obesity-related traits, thus further supporting their role as potential mediators of metabolic alterations associated with a distinct FD. Finally, developmental genes may at a very early stage determine specific FD in later life. Indeed, genes such as TBX15 not only manifest differential expression in various fat depots, but also correlate with obesity and related traits. Moreover, recent GWAS identified several polymorphisms in developmental genes (including TBX15, HOXC13, RSPO3 and CPEB4) strongly associated with FD. More accurate methods, including cardiometabolic imaging, for assessment of FD are needed to promote our understanding in this field, where the main focus is now to unravel the yet unknown biological function of these novel 'fat distribution genes'.

Frequency-domain optical tomographic image reconstruction algorithm with the simplified spherical harmonics (SP3) light propagation model.

PubMed

Kim, Hyun Keol; Montejo, Ludguier D; Jia, Jingfei; Hielscher, Andreas H

2017-06-01

We introduce here the finite volume formulation of the frequency-domain simplified spherical harmonics model with n -th order absorption coefficients (FD-SP N ) that approximates the frequency-domain equation of radiative transfer (FD-ERT). We then present the FD-SP N based reconstruction algorithm that recovers absorption and scattering coefficients in biological tissue. The FD-SP N model with 3 rd order absorption coefficient (i.e., FD-SP 3 ) is used as a forward model to solve the inverse problem. The FD-SP 3 is discretized with a node-centered finite volume scheme and solved with a restarted generalized minimum residual (GMRES) algorithm. The absorption and scattering coefficients are retrieved using a limited-memory Broyden-Fletcher-Goldfarb-Shanno (L-BFGS) algorithm. Finally, the forward and inverse algorithms are evaluated using numerical phantoms with optical properties and size that mimic small-volume tissue such as finger joints and small animals. The forward results show that the FD-SP 3 model approximates the FD-ERT (S 12 ) solution within relatively high accuracy; the average error in the phase (<3.7%) and the amplitude (<7.1%) of the partial current at the boundary are reported. From the inverse results we find that the absorption and scattering coefficient maps are more accurately reconstructed with the SP 3 model than those with the SP 1 model. Therefore, this work shows that the FD-SP 3 is an efficient model for optical tomographic imaging of small-volume media with non-diffuse properties both in terms of computational time and accuracy as it requires significantly lower CPU time than the FD-ERT (S 12 ) and also it is more accurate than the FD-SP 1 .

Food and functional dyspepsia: a systematic review.

PubMed

Duncanson, K R; Talley, N J; Walker, M M; Burrows, T L

2018-06-01

Functional dyspepsia (FD) is a debilitating functional gastrointestinal disorder characterised by early satiety, post-prandial fullness or epigastric pain related to meals, which affects up to 20% of western populations. A high dietary fat intake has been linked to FD and duodenal eosinophilia has been noted in FD. We hypothesised that an allergen such as wheat is a risk factor for FD and that withdrawal will improve symptoms of FD. We aimed to investigate the relationship between food and functional dyspepsia. Sixteen out of 6451 studies identified in a database search of six databases met the inclusion criteria of studies examining the effect of nutrients, foods and food components in adults with FD or FD symptoms. Wheat-containing foods were implicated in FD symptom induction in six studies, four of which were not specifically investigating gluten and two that were gluten-specific, with the implementation of a gluten-free diet demonstrating a reduction in symptoms. Dietary fat was associated with FD in all three studies that specifically measured this association. Specific foods reported as inducing symptoms were high in either natural food chemicals, high in fermentable carbohydrates or high in wheat/gluten. Caffeine was associated with FD in four studies, although any association with alcohol was uncertain. Wheat and dietary fats may play key roles in the generation of FD symptoms and reduction or withdrawal eased symptoms. Randomised trials investigating the roles of gluten, FODMAPs (fermentable oligosaccharide, disaccharide, monosaccharide and polyols) and high fat ingestion and naturally occurring food chemicals in the generation of functional dyspepsia symptoms are warranted and further investigation of the mechanisms is now required. © 2017 The British Dietetic Association Ltd.

Short hairpin RNA suppression of thymidylate synthase produces DNA mismatches and results in excellent radiosensitization.

PubMed

Flanagan, Sheryl A; Cooper, Kristin S; Mannava, Sudha; Nikiforov, Mikhail A; Shewach, Donna S

2012-12-01

To determine the effect of short hairpin ribonucleic acid (shRNA)-mediated suppression of thymidylate synthase (TS) on cytotoxicity and radiosensitization and the mechanism by which these events occur. shRNA suppression of TS was compared with 5-fluoro-2'-deoxyuridine (FdUrd) inactivation of TS with or without ionizing radiation in HCT116 and HT29 colon cancer cells. Cytotoxicity and radiosensitization were measured by clonogenic assay. Cell cycle effects were measured by flow cytometry. The effects of FdUrd or shRNA suppression of TS on dNTP deoxynucleotide triphosphate imbalances and consequent nucleotide misincorporations into deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) were analyzed by high-pressure liquid chromatography and as pSP189 plasmid mutations, respectively. TS shRNA produced profound (≥ 90%) and prolonged (≥ 8 days) suppression of TS in HCT116 and HT29 cells, whereas FdUrd increased TS expression. TS shRNA also produced more specific and prolonged effects on dNTPs deoxynucleotide triphosphates compared with FdUrd. TS shRNA suppression allowed accumulation of cells in S-phase, although its effects were not as long-lasting as those of FdUrd. Both treatments resulted in phosphorylation of Chk1. TS shRNA alone was less cytotoxic than FdUrd but was equally effective as FdUrd in eliciting radiosensitization (radiation enhancement ratio: TS shRNA, 1.5-1.7; FdUrd, 1.4-1.6). TS shRNA and FdUrd produced a similar increase in the number and type of pSP189 mutations. TS shRNA produced less cytotoxicity than FdUrd but was equally effective at radiosensitizing tumor cells. Thus, the inhibitory effect of FdUrd on TS alone is sufficient to elicit radiosensitization with FdUrd, but it only partially explains FdUrd-mediated cytotoxicity and cell cycle inhibition. The increase in DNA mismatches after TS shRNA or FdUrd supports a causal and sufficient role for the depletion of dTTP thymidine triphosphate and consequent DNA mismatches underlying radiosensitization. Importantly, shRNA suppression of TS avoids FP-mediated TS elevation and its negative prognostic role. These studies support the further exploration of TS suppression as a novel radiosensitizing strategy. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Influence of functional dentition on satisfaction with oral health and impacts on daily performance among Brazilian adults: a population-based cross-sectional study.

PubMed

Chalub, Loliza Luiz Figueiredo Houri; Ferreira, Raquel Conceição; Vargas, Andréa Maria Duarte

2017-07-11

Dental esthetics, chewing and speech should be preserved in a dentition denominated functional and are closely related to satisfaction with oral health (SOH), impacts caused by oral problems and have a possible association with Oral Health-Related Quality of Life. Thus, the purpose of the present study was to investigate the influence of different concepts of functional dentition (FD) on both SOH and impacts on daily performance (IDP) among Brazilian adults. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 9564 adults (35-44 years). SOH and IDP were evaluated using the Oral Impacts on Daily Performance (OIDP) questionnaire. FD was considered based on four different definitions: I-classification of the World Health Organization (FDWHO = ≥20 teeth); II-well-distributed teeth (WDT = ≥10 teeth in each arch); III-classified by esthetics and occlusion (FD Class5  = sequential presence of one tooth in each arch, ≥10 teeth in each arch, 12 anterior teeth, ≥three posterior occluding pairs [POPs] of premolars and ≥one POP molar bilaterally); and IV-classified by esthetics, occlusion and periodontal status (FD Class6  = FD Class5 plus all sextants with CPI ≤ 3 and/or CAL ≤ 1). The proportion of adults satisfied with oral health and without overall impact (OIDP = 0) was calculated for each definition of FD. Multiple Poisson regression models were adjusted by demographic-socioeconomic characteristics, self-reported oral problems and the use of dental services for each dependent variable. When FD Class5 and FD Class6 were considered a greater proportion of adults reported being satisfied (52.1 and 53.1%, respectively) and have OIDP = 0 (52.4 and 53.3, respectively). In the multiple models, SOH was associated with FD Class5 (RP = 1.21) and FD Class6 (RP = 1.24) and OIDP = 0 was associated with WDT (RP = 1.14) and FD Class6 (RP = 1.21). The greater influence of WDT, FD Class5 and FD Class6 on aspects related to quality of life in comparison to FDWHO demonstrates the need for the establishment of a broader definition of FD that encompasses subjective aspects.

Dose reduction in abdominal computed tomography: intraindividual comparison of image quality of full-dose standard and half-dose iterative reconstructions with dual-source computed tomography.

PubMed

May, Matthias S; Wüst, Wolfgang; Brand, Michael; Stahl, Christian; Allmendinger, Thomas; Schmidt, Bernhard; Uder, Michael; Lell, Michael M

2011-07-01

We sought to evaluate the image quality of iterative reconstruction in image space (IRIS) in half-dose (HD) datasets compared with full-dose (FD) and HD filtered back projection (FBP) reconstruction in abdominal computed tomography (CT). To acquire data with FD and HD simultaneously, contrast-enhanced abdominal CT was performed with a dual-source CT system, both tubes operating at 120 kV, 100 ref.mAs, and pitch 0.8. Three different image datasets were reconstructed from the raw data: Standard FD images applying FBP which served as reference, HD images applying FBP and HD images applying IRIS. For the HD data sets, only data from 1 tube detector-system was used. Quantitative image quality analysis was performed by measuring image noise in tissue and air. Qualitative image quality was evaluated according to the European Guidelines on Quality criteria for CT. Additional assessment of artifacts, lesion conspicuity, and edge sharpness was performed. : Image noise in soft tissue was substantially decreased in HD-IRIS (-3.4 HU, -22%) and increased in HD-FBP (+6.2 HU, +39%) images when compared with the reference (mean noise, 15.9 HU). No significant differences between the FD-FBP and HD-IRIS images were found for the visually sharp anatomic reproduction, overall diagnostic acceptability (P = 0.923), lesion conspicuity (P = 0.592), and edge sharpness (P = 0.589), while HD-FBP was rated inferior. Streak artifacts and beam hardening was significantly more prominent in HD-FBP while HD-IRIS images exhibited a slightly different noise pattern. Direct intrapatient comparison of standard FD body protocols and HD-IRIS reconstruction suggest that the latest iterative reconstruction algorithms allow for approximately 50% dose reduction without deterioration of the high image quality necessary for confident diagnosis.

Post-adolescent developmental changes in cortical complexity.

PubMed

Sandu, Anca-Larisa; Izard, Edouard; Specht, Karsten; Beneventi, Harald; Lundervold, Arvid; Ystad, Martin

2014-11-27

Post-adolescence is known to be a period of general maturation and development in the human brain. In brain imaging, volumetric and morphologic cortical grey-matter changes can easily be assessed, but the analysis of cortical complexity seems to have been broadly neglected for this age interval. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was used to acquire structural brain images. The study involved 17 adolescents (mean age 14.1 ± 0.27, 11 girls) who were compared with 14 young adults (mean age 24.24 ± 2.76, 7 women) for measures of brain complexity (fractal dimension--FD), grey matter (GM) volume and surface-area of cortical ribbon. FD was calculated using box-counting and Minkowski-Bouligand methods; FD and GM volume were measured for the whole brain, each hemisphere and lobes: frontal, occipital, parietal and temporal. The results show that the adults have a lower cortical complexity than the adolescents, which was significant for whole brain, left and right hemisphere, frontal and parietal lobes for both genders; and only for males in left temporal lobe. The GM volume was smaller in men than in boys for almost all measurements, and smaller in women than in girls just for right parietal lobe. A significant Pearson correlation was found between FD and GM volume for whole brain and each hemisphere in both genders. The decrease of the GM surface-area was significant in post-adolescence for males, not for females. During post-adolescence there are common changes in cortical complexity in the same regions for both genders, but there are also gender specific changes in some cortical areas. The sex differences from different cortical measurements (FD, GM volume and surface-area of cortical ribbon) could suggest a maturation delay in specific brain regions for each gender in relation to the other and might be explained through the functional role of the corresponding regions reflected in gender difference of developed abilities.

An RBF-FD closest point method for solving PDEs on surfaces

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Petras, A.; Ling, L.; Ruuth, S. J.

2018-10-01

Partial differential equations (PDEs) on surfaces appear in many applications throughout the natural and applied sciences. The classical closest point method (Ruuth and Merriman (2008) [17]) is an embedding method for solving PDEs on surfaces using standard finite difference schemes. In this paper, we formulate an explicit closest point method using finite difference schemes derived from radial basis functions (RBF-FD). Unlike the orthogonal gradients method (Piret (2012) [22]), our proposed method uses RBF centers on regular grid nodes. This formulation not only reduces the computational cost but also avoids the ill-conditioning from point clustering on the surface and is more natural to couple with a grid based manifold evolution algorithm (Leung and Zhao (2009) [26]). When compared to the standard finite difference discretization of the closest point method, the proposed method requires a smaller computational domain surrounding the surface, resulting in a decrease in the number of sampling points on the surface. In addition, higher-order schemes can easily be constructed by increasing the number of points in the RBF-FD stencil. Applications to a variety of examples are provided to illustrate the numerical convergence of the method.

21 CFR 74.2203 - FD&C Green No. 3.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Cosmetics § 74.2203 FD&C Green No. 3. (a) Identity and specifications. The color additive FD&C Green No. 3 shall conform in identity and specifications to the requirements of § 74.203(a)(1) and (b). (b) Uses and restrictions. The color additive FD&C Green No. 3 may be...

21 CFR 74.2203 - FD&C Green No. 3.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Cosmetics § 74.2203 FD&C Green No. 3. (a) Identity and specifications. The color additive FD&C Green No. 3 shall conform in identity and specifications to the requirements of § 74.203(a)(1) and (b). (b) Uses and restrictions. The color additive FD&C Green No. 3 may be...

21 CFR 74.2203 - FD&C Green No. 3.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Cosmetics § 74.2203 FD&C Green No. 3. (a) Identity and specifications. The color additive FD&C Green No. 3 shall conform in identity and specifications to the requirements of § 74.203(a)(1) and (b). (b) Uses and restrictions. The color additive FD&C Green No. 3 may be...

21 CFR 74.2203 - FD&C Green No. 3.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Cosmetics § 74.2203 FD&C Green No. 3. (a) Identity and specifications. The color additive FD&C Green No. 3 shall conform in identity and specifications to the requirements of § 74.203(a)(1) and (b). (b) Uses and restrictions. The color additive FD&C Green No. 3 may be...

Fractal analysis of plaque border, a novel method for the quantification of atherosclerotic plaque contour irregularity, is associated with pro-atherogenic plasma lipid profile in subjects with non-obstructive carotid stenoses.

PubMed

Moroni, Francesco; Magnoni, Marco; Vergani, Vittoria; Ammirati, Enrico; Camici, Paolo G

2018-01-01

Plaque border irregularity is a known imaging characteristic of vulnerable plaques, but its evaluation heavily relies on subjective evaluation and operator expertise. Aim of the present work is to propose a novel fractal-analysis based method for the quantification of atherosclerotic plaque border irregularity and assess its relation with cardiovascular risk factors. Forty-two asymptomatic subjects with carotid stenosis underwent ultrasound evaluation and assessment of cardiovascular risk factors. Total, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), high-density lipoprotein (HDL) plasma cholesterol and triglycerides concentrations were measured for each subject. Fractal analysis was performed in all the carotid segments affected by atherosclerosis, i.e. 147 segments. The resulting fractal dimension (FD) is a measure of irregularity of plaque profile on long axis view of the plaque. FD in the severest stenosis (main plaque FD,mFD) was 1.136±0.039. Average FD per patient (global FD,gFD) was 1.145±0.039. FD was independent of other plaque characteristics. mFD significantly correlated with plasma HDL (r = -0.367,p = 0.02) and triglycerides-to-HDL ratio (r = 0.480,p = 0.002). Fractal analysis is a novel, readily available, reproducible and inexpensive technique for the quantitative measurement of plaque irregularity. The correlation between low HDL levels and plaque FD suggests a role for HDL in the acquisition of morphologic features of plaque instability. Further studies are needed to validate the prognostic value of fractal analysis in carotid plaques evaluation.

Familial Dysautonomia (FD) Human Embryonic Stem Cell Derived PNS Neurons Reveal that Synaptic Vesicular and Neuronal Transport Genes Are Directly or Indirectly Affected by IKBKAP Downregulation

PubMed Central

Kantor, Gal; Cheishvili, David; Even, Aviel; Birger, Anastasya; Turetsky, Tikva; Gil, Yaniv; Even-Ram, Sharona; Aizenman, Einat; Bashir, Nibal; Maayan, Channa; Razin, Aharon; Reubinoff, Benjamim E.; Weil, Miguel

2015-01-01

A splicing mutation in the IKBKAP gene causes Familial Dysautonomia (FD), affecting the IKAP protein expression levels and proper development and function of the peripheral nervous system (PNS). Here we found new molecular insights for the IKAP role and the impact of the FD mutation in the human PNS lineage by using a novel and unique human embryonic stem cell (hESC) line homozygous to the FD mutation originated by pre implantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) analysis. We found that IKBKAP downregulation during PNS differentiation affects normal migration in FD-hESC derived neural crest cells (NCC) while at later stages the PNS neurons show reduced intracellular colocalization between vesicular proteins and IKAP. Comparative wide transcriptome analysis of FD and WT hESC-derived neurons together with the analysis of human brains from FD and WT 12 weeks old embryos and experimental validation of the results confirmed that synaptic vesicular and neuronal transport genes are directly or indirectly affected by IKBKAP downregulation in FD neurons. Moreover we show that kinetin (a drug that corrects IKBKAP alternative splicing) promotes the recovery of IKAP expression and these IKAP functional associated genes identified in the study. Altogether, these results support the view that IKAP might be a vesicular like protein that might be involved in neuronal transport in hESC derived PNS neurons. This function seems to be mostly affected in FD-hESC derived PNS neurons probably reflecting some PNS neuronal dysfunction observed in FD. PMID:26437462

Stepwise morphological changes and cytoskeletal reorganization of human mesenchymal stem cells treated by short-time cyclic uniaxial stretch.

PubMed

Parandakh, Azim; Tafazzoli-Shadpour, Mohammad; Khani, Mohammad-Mehdi

2017-06-01

This study aimed to investigate stepwise remodeling of human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) in response to cyclic stretch through rearrangement and alignment of cells and cytoskeleton regulation toward smooth muscle cell (SMC) fate in different time spans. Image analysis techniques were utilized to calculate morphological parameters. Cytoskeletal reorganization was observed by investigating F-actin filaments using immunofluorescence staining, and expression level of contractile SMC markers was followed by a quantitative polymerase chain reaction method. Applying cyclic uniaxial stretch on cultured hMSCs, utilizing a costume-made device, led to alteration in fractal dimension (FD) and cytoskeleton structure toward continuous alignment and elongation of cells by elevation of strain duration. Actin filaments became more aligned perpendicular to the axis of mechanical stretch by increasing uniaxial loading duration. At first, FD met a significant decrease in 4 h loading duration then increased significantly by further loading up to 16 h, followed by another decrease up to 1 d of uniaxial stretching. HMSCs subjected to 24 h cyclic uniaxial stretching significantly expressed early and intermediate contractile SM markers. It was hypothesized that the increase in FD after 4 h while cells continuously became more aligned and elongated was due to initiation of change in phenotype that influenced arrangement of cells. At this point, change in cell phenotype started leading to change in morphology while mechanical loading still caused cell alignment and rearrangement. Results can be helpful when optimized engineered cells are needed based on mechanical condition for functional engineered tissue and cell therapy.

[4Fe-4S]-cluster-depleted Azotobacter vinelandii ferredoxin I: a new 3Fe iron-sulfur protein.

PubMed Central

Stephens, P J; Morgan, T V; Devlin, F; Penner-Hahn, J E; Hodgson, K O; Scott, R A; Stout, C D; Burgess, B K

1985-01-01

Fe(CN)6(-3) oxidation of the aerobically isolated 7Fe Azotobacter vinelandii ferredoxin I, (7Fe)FdI, is a degradative reaction. Destruction of the [4Fe-4S] cluster occurs first, followed by destruction of the [3Fe-3S] cluster. At a Fe(CN)6(-3)/(7Fe)FdI concentration ratio of 20, the product is a mixture of apoprotein and protein containing only a [3Fe-3S] cluster, (3Fe)FdI. This protein mixture, after partial purification, has been characterized by absorption, CD, magnetic CD, and EPR and Fe x-ray absorption spectroscopies. EPR and magnetic CD spectra provide strong evidence that the [3Fe-3S] cluster in (3Fe)FdI is essentially identical in structure to that in (7Fe)FdI. Analysis of the extended x-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) of (3Fe)FdI finds Fe scattering at an average Fe...Fe distance of approximately equal to 2.7 A. The structure of the oxidized [3Fe-3S] cluster in solutions of oxidized (3Fe)FdI, and, by extension, of oxidized (7Fe)FdI, is thus different from that obtained by x-ray crystallography on oxidized (7Fe)FdI. Possible interpretations of this result are discussed. PMID:2994040

Cellular Assays for Ferredoxins: A Strategy for Understanding Electron Flow through Protein Carriers That Link Metabolic Pathways.

PubMed

Atkinson, Joshua T; Campbell, Ian; Bennett, George N; Silberg, Jonathan J

2016-12-27

The ferredoxin (Fd) protein family is a structurally diverse group of iron-sulfur proteins that function as electron carriers, linking biochemical pathways important for energy transduction, nutrient assimilation, and primary metabolism. While considerable biochemical information about individual Fd protein electron carriers and their reactions has been acquired, we cannot yet anticipate the proportion of electrons shuttled between different Fd-partner proteins within cells using biochemical parameters that govern electron flow, such as holo-Fd concentration, midpoint potential (driving force), molecular interactions (affinity and kinetics), conformational changes (allostery), and off-pathway electron leakage (chemical oxidation). Herein, we describe functional and structural gaps in our Fd knowledge within the context of a sequence similarity network and phylogenetic tree, and we propose a strategy for improving our understanding of Fd sequence-function relationships. We suggest comparing the functions of divergent Fds within cells whose growth, or other measurable output, requires electron transfer between defined electron donor and acceptor proteins. By comparing Fd-mediated electron transfer with biochemical parameters that govern electron flow, we posit that models that anticipate energy flow across Fd interactomes can be built. This approach is expected to transform our ability to anticipate Fd control over electron flow in cellular settings, an obstacle to the construction of synthetic electron transfer pathways and rational optimization of existing energy-conserving pathways.

Gemcitabine diphosphate choline is a major metabolite linked to the Kennedy pathway in pancreatic cancer models in vivo.

PubMed

Bapiro, T E; Frese, K K; Courtin, A; Bramhall, J L; Madhu, B; Cook, N; Neesse, A; Griffiths, J R; Tuveson, D A; Jodrell, D I; Richards, F M

2014-07-15

The modest benefits of gemcitabine (dFdC) therapy in patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) are well documented, with drug delivery and metabolic lability cited as important contributing factors. We have used a mouse model of PDAC: KRAS(G12D); p53(R172H); pdx-Cre (KPC) that recapitulates the human disease to study dFdC intra-tumoural metabolism. LC-MS/MS and NMR were used to measure drug and physiological analytes. Cytotoxicity was assessed by the Sulphorhodamine B assay. In KPC tumour tissue, we identified a new, Kennedy pathway-linked dFdC metabolite (gemcitabine diphosphate choline (GdPC)) present at equimolar amounts to its precursor, the accepted active metabolite gemcitabine triphosphate (dFdCTP). Utilising additional subcutaneous PDAC tumour models, we demonstrated an inverse correlation between GdPC/dFdCTP ratios and cytidine triphosphate (CTP). In tumour homogenates in vitro, CTP inhibited GdPC formation from dFdCTP, indicating competition between CTP and dFdCTP for CTP:phosphocholine cytidylyltransferase (CCT). As the structure of GdPC precludes entry into cells, potential cytotoxicity was assessed by stimulating CCT activity using linoleate in KPC cells in vitro, leading to increased GdPC concentration and synergistic growth inhibition after dFdC addition. GdPC is an important element of the intra-tumoural dFdC metabolic pathway in vivo.

In vivo imaging of the mouse model of X-linked juvenile retinoschisis with fourier domain optical coherence tomography.

PubMed

Xu, Jing; Molday, Laurie L; Molday, Robert S; Sarunic, Marinko V

2009-06-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate Fourier domain optical coherence tomography (FD OCT) as a noninvasive tool for retinal imaging in the Rs1h-knockout mouse (model for X-linked juvenile retinoschisis). A prototype spectrometer-based FD OCT system was used in combination with a custom optical beam-scanning platform. Images of the retinas from wild-type and Rs1h-knockout mice were acquired noninvasively with FD OCT with the specimen anesthetized. At the completion of the noninvasive FD OCT imaging, invasive retinal cross-sectional images (histology) were acquired from a nearby region for comparison to the FD OCT images. The retinal layers were identifiable in the FD OCT images, permitting delineation and thickness measurement of the outer nuclear layer (ONL). During FD OCT in vivo imaging of the Rs1h-knockout mouse, holes were observed in the inner nuclear layer (INL), and retinal cell disorganization was observed as a change in the backscattering intensity profile. Comparison of the ONL measurements acquired noninvasively with FD OCT to measurements taken using histology at nearby locations showed a degeneration of roughly 30% of the ONL by the age of 2 months in Rs1h-knockout mice relative to wild-type. FD OCT was demonstrated to be effective for noninvasive imaging of retinal degeneration and observation of retinal holes in Rs1h-knockout mice.

21 CFR 74.1101 - FD&C Blue No. 1

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Drugs § 74.1101 FD&C Blue No. 1 (a) Identity. (1) For ingested drugs, the color additive FD&C Blue No. 1 shall conform in identity to the requirements of § 74.101(a)(1). (2) For externally applied drugs, the color additive FD&C Blue No. 1 shall conform in identity to the requirements of...

21 CFR 74.1303 - FD&C Red No. 3.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Drugs § 74.1303 FD&C Red No. 3. (a) Identity and specifications. (1) The color additive FD&C Red No. 3 shall conform in identity and specifications to the requirements of § 74.303(a)(1) and (b). (2) Color additive mixtures for ingested drug used made with FD&C Red No. 3 may...

Frequency Discrimination Deficits in People with Specific Language Impairment: Reliability, Validity, and Linguistic Correlates

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

McArthur, G. M.; Bishop, D. V. M.

2004-01-01

The reliability and validity of a frequency discrimination (FD) task were tested in 16 people with specific language impairment (SLI) and 16 people with normal spoken language (controls). The FD thresholds of the 2 groups indicated that FD thresholds for 25-ms and 250-ms tones were remarkably stable across 18 months. The FD thresholds were lower…

21 CFR 74.1303 - FD&C Red No. 3.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Drugs § 74.1303 FD&C Red No. 3. (a) Identity and specifications. (1) The color additive FD&C Red No. 3 shall conform in identity and specifications to the requirements of § 74.303(a)(1) and (b). (2) Color additive mixtures for ingested drug used made with FD&C Red No. 3 may...

21 CFR 74.1303 - FD&C Red No. 3.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Drugs § 74.1303 FD&C Red No. 3. (a) Identity and specifications. (1) The color additive FD&C Red No. 3 shall conform in identity and specifications to the requirements of § 74.303(a)(1) and (b). (2) Color additive mixtures for ingested drug used made with FD&C Red No. 3 may...

21 CFR 74.1303 - FD&C Red No. 3.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Drugs § 74.1303 FD&C Red No. 3. (a) Identity and specifications. (1) The color additive FD&C Red No. 3 shall conform in identity and specifications to the requirements of § 74.303(a)(1) and (b). (2) Color additive mixtures for ingested drug used made with FD&C Red No. 3 may...

Functional Dyspepsia: Advances in Diagnosis and Therapy

PubMed Central

Talley, Nicholas J.

2017-01-01

Functional dyspepsia (FD) is a common but under-recognized syndrome comprising bothersome recurrent postprandial fullness, early satiety, or epigastric pain/burning. Epidemiologically, there are two clinically distinct FD syndromes (although these often overlap clinically): postprandial distress syndrome (PDS; comprising early satiety or meal-related fullness) and epigastric pain syndrome. Symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease overlap with FD more than expected by chance; a subset has pathological acid reflux. The pre-test probability of FD in a patient who presents with classical FD symptoms and no alarm features is high, approximately 0.7. Coexistent heartburn should not lead to the exclusion of FD as a diagnosis. One of the most exciting observations in FD has been the consistent finding of increased duodenal eosinophilia, notably in PDS. Small bowel homing T cells, signaling intestinal inflammation, and increased cytokines have been detected in the circulation, and elevated tumor necrosis factor-α levels have been significantly correlated with increased anxiety. Postinfectious gastroenteritis is a risk factor for FD. Therapeutic options remain limited and provide only symptomatic benefit in most cases. Only one therapy is known to change the natural history of FD–Helicobacter pylori eradication. Treatment of duodenal eosinophilia is under investigation. PMID:28452210

Changes in non-volatile taste components of button mushroom (Agaricus bisporus) during different stages of freeze drying and freeze drying combined with microwave vacuum drying.

PubMed

Pei, Fei; Shi, Ying; Gao, Xingyang; Wu, Fangning; Mariga, Alfred Mugambi; Yang, Wenjian; Zhao, Liyan; An, Xinxin; Xin, Zhihong; Yang, Fangmei; Hu, Qiuhui

2014-12-15

Button mushroom slices were dehydrated using freeze drying (FD) or FD combined with microwave vacuum drying (FMVD), and the non-volatile component profiles were studied. The results showed that the level of non-volatile components in button mushroom firstly increased during sublimation of FD/FMVD process and then fell during desorption in FD process and MVD in FMVD process. Compared to FD products, the contents of soluble sugars and polyols in FMVD products were relatively low, whereas the contents of total free amino acids were significantly higher, close to the level of fresh mushroom. However, there was no significant difference in the contents of 5'-nucleotides and organic acids between FD and FMVD products. The equivalent umami concentration (EUC) values for FD and FMVD products did not differ from fresh, indicating that both drying methods could effectively preserve MSG (monosodium glutamate)-like components in button mushroom. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Treatment of folliculitis decalvans using intensity-modulated radiation via tomotherapy.

PubMed

Elsayad, Khaled; Kriz, Jan; Haverkamp, Uwe; Plachouri, Kerasia-Maria; Jeskowiak, Antonia; Sunderkötter, Cord; Eich, Hans Theodor

2015-11-01

Folliculitis decalvans (FD) is a form of primary neutrophilic scarring alopecia that is characterized clinically by chronic suppurative folliculitis and often associated with pruritus or even pain. Treatment of FD is often difficult. Herein, we report a case of recalcitrant and painful folliculitis decalvans refractory to antibiotic and anti-inflammatory therapies, which was successfully treated by intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) in order to irreversibly eliminate hair follicles that prove to be one etiological trigger. A 45-year-old male patient with a refractory FD presented with a crusting suppurative folliculitis and atrophic scarring patches on the scalp associated with pain and pruritus. We attempted relief of symptoms by reducing scalp inflammation and eliminating hair follicles through radiation. We delivered 11.0 Gy in two radiation series using tomotherapy, 5.0 Gy in 5 equivalent fractions as a first radiation course. The symptoms markedly decreased but did not totally disappear. Therefore, we delivered a second radiation series 4 months later with an additional 6 Gy. This led to almost complete epilation on the scalp and abolished pain and pruritus on the capillitium. The patient was regularly followed up until 26 months after radiotherapy. Draining lesions or exudation did not recur. He only experienced discrete hair regrowth in the occipital region with folliculitis 12 months after radiotherapy. These residual lesions are currently treated with laser epilation therapy. A radical approach to eliminating hair follicles by repeated radiation therapy may induce lasting relief of symptoms in chronic suppurative FD associated with persistent trichodynia.

21 CFR 74.1101 - FD&C Blue No. 1

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 1 2012-04-01 2012-04-01 false FD&C Blue No. 1 74.1101 Section 74.1101 Food and... ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Drugs § 74.1101 FD&C Blue No. 1 (a) Identity. (1) For ingested drugs, the color additive FD&C Blue No. 1 shall conform in identity to the requirements of § 74.101(a)(1). (2) For...

21 CFR 82.102 - FD&C Blue No. 2.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 1 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false FD&C Blue No. 2. 82.102 Section 82.102 Food and... PROVISIONALLY LISTED COLORS AND SPECIFICATIONS Foods, Drugs, and Cosmetics § 82.102 FD&C Blue No. 2. The color additive FD&C Blue No. 2 shall conform in identity and specifications to the requirements of § 74.102(a)(1...

21 CFR 82.101 - FD&C Blue No. 1.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 1 2013-04-01 2013-04-01 false FD&C Blue No. 1. 82.101 Section 82.101 Food and... PROVISIONALLY LISTED COLORS AND SPECIFICATIONS Foods, Drugs, and Cosmetics § 82.101 FD&C Blue No. 1. The color additive FD&C Blue No. 1 shall conform in identity and specifications to the requirements of § 74.101(a)(1...

21 CFR 74.1102 - FD&C Blue No. 2.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 1 2013-04-01 2013-04-01 false FD&C Blue No. 2. 74.1102 Section 74.1102 Food and... ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Drugs § 74.1102 FD&C Blue No. 2. (a) Identity. (1) The color additive FD&C Blue No. 2 shall conform in identity to the requirements of § 74.102(a)(1). (2) Color additive...

21 CFR 74.1101 - FD&C Blue No. 1

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 1 2013-04-01 2013-04-01 false FD&C Blue No. 1 74.1101 Section 74.1101 Food and... ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Drugs § 74.1101 FD&C Blue No. 1 (a) Identity. (1) For ingested drugs, the color additive FD&C Blue No. 1 shall conform in identity to the requirements of § 74.101(a)(1). (2) For...

21 CFR 82.102 - FD&C Blue No. 2.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 1 2014-04-01 2014-04-01 false FD&C Blue No. 2. 82.102 Section 82.102 Food and... PROVISIONALLY LISTED COLORS AND SPECIFICATIONS Foods, Drugs, and Cosmetics § 82.102 FD&C Blue No. 2. The color additive FD&C Blue No. 2 shall conform in identity and specifications to the requirements of § 74.102(a)(1...

21 CFR 74.1102 - FD&C Blue No. 2.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 1 2012-04-01 2012-04-01 false FD&C Blue No. 2. 74.1102 Section 74.1102 Food and... ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Drugs § 74.1102 FD&C Blue No. 2. (a) Identity. (1) The color additive FD&C Blue No. 2 shall conform in identity to the requirements of § 74.102(a)(1). (2) Color additive...

21 CFR 74.1101 - FD&C Blue No. 1

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 1 2014-04-01 2014-04-01 false FD&C Blue No. 1 74.1101 Section 74.1101 Food and... ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Drugs § 74.1101 FD&C Blue No. 1 (a) Identity. (1) For ingested drugs, the color additive FD&C Blue No. 1 shall conform in identity to the requirements of § 74.101(a)(1). (2) For...

21 CFR 82.101 - FD&C Blue No. 1.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 1 2014-04-01 2014-04-01 false FD&C Blue No. 1. 82.101 Section 82.101 Food and... PROVISIONALLY LISTED COLORS AND SPECIFICATIONS Foods, Drugs, and Cosmetics § 82.101 FD&C Blue No. 1. The color additive FD&C Blue No. 1 shall conform in identity and specifications to the requirements of § 74.101(a)(1...

21 CFR 82.102 - FD&C Blue No. 2.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 1 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false FD&C Blue No. 2. 82.102 Section 82.102 Food and... PROVISIONALLY LISTED COLORS AND SPECIFICATIONS Foods, Drugs, and Cosmetics § 82.102 FD&C Blue No. 2. The color additive FD&C Blue No. 2 shall conform in identity and specifications to the requirements of § 74.102(a)(1...

21 CFR 82.101 - FD&C Blue No. 1.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 1 2012-04-01 2012-04-01 false FD&C Blue No. 1. 82.101 Section 82.101 Food and... PROVISIONALLY LISTED COLORS AND SPECIFICATIONS Foods, Drugs, and Cosmetics § 82.101 FD&C Blue No. 1. The color additive FD&C Blue No. 1 shall conform in identity and specifications to the requirements of § 74.101(a)(1...

21 CFR 82.102 - FD&C Blue No. 2.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 1 2012-04-01 2012-04-01 false FD&C Blue No. 2. 82.102 Section 82.102 Food and... PROVISIONALLY LISTED COLORS AND SPECIFICATIONS Foods, Drugs, and Cosmetics § 82.102 FD&C Blue No. 2. The color additive FD&C Blue No. 2 shall conform in identity and specifications to the requirements of § 74.102(a)(1...

21 CFR 82.102 - FD&C Blue No. 2.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 1 2013-04-01 2013-04-01 false FD&C Blue No. 2. 82.102 Section 82.102 Food and... PROVISIONALLY LISTED COLORS AND SPECIFICATIONS Foods, Drugs, and Cosmetics § 82.102 FD&C Blue No. 2. The color additive FD&C Blue No. 2 shall conform in identity and specifications to the requirements of § 74.102(a)(1...

21 CFR 74.1102 - FD&C Blue No. 2.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 1 2014-04-01 2014-04-01 false FD&C Blue No. 2. 74.1102 Section 74.1102 Food and... ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Drugs § 74.1102 FD&C Blue No. 2. (a) Identity. (1) The color additive FD&C Blue No. 2 shall conform in identity to the requirements of § 74.102(a)(1). (2) Color additive...

Degree Of Diminution In Vagal-Cardiac Activity Predicts Sudden Death In Familial Dysautonomia When Resting Tachycardia Is Absent

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schlegel, T. T.; Marthol, H.; Bucchner, S.; Tutaj, M.; Berlin, D.; Axelrod, F. B.; Hilz, M. J.

2004-01-01

Patients with familial dysautonomia (FD) have an increased risk of sudden death, but sensitive and specific predictors of sudden death in FD are lacking. Methods. We recorded 10-min resting high-fidelity 12-lead ECGs in 14 FD patients and in 14 age/gender-matched healthy subjects and studied 25+ different heart rate variability (HRV) indices for their ability to predict sudden death in the FD patients. Indices studied included those from 4 "nonlinear" HRV techniques (detrended fluctuation analysis, approximate entropy, correlation dimension, and PoincarC analyses). The predictive value of PR, QRS, QTc and JTc intervals, QT dispersion (QTd), beat-to-beat QT and PR interval variability indices (QTVI and PRVI) and 12- lead high frequency QRS ECG (150-250 Hz) were also studied. FD patients and controls (C) differed (Pless than 0.0l) with respect to 20+ of the HRV indices (FD less than C) and with respect to QTVI and PRVI (FDBC) and HF QRS- related root mean squared voltages (FDBC) and reduced amplitude zone counts (FD less than C). They differed less with respect to PR intervals (FD less than C) and JTc intervals (FD greater than C) (P less than 0.05 for both) and did not differ at all with respect to QRS and QTc intervals and to QTd. Within 12 months after study, 2 of the 14 patients succumbed to sudden cardiac arrest. The best predictor of sudden death was the degree of diminution in HRV vagal-cardiac (parasympathetic) parameters such as RMSSD, the SDl of Poincare plots, and HF spectral power. Excluding the two FD patients who had resting tachycardia (HR greater than 100, which confounds traditional HRV analyses), the following criteria were independently 100% sensitive and 100% specific for predicting sudden death in the remaining 12 FD patients during spontaneous breathing: RMSSD less than 13 ms and/or PoincarC SD1 less than 9 ms. In FD patients without supine tachycardia, the degree of diminution in parasympathetic HRV parameters (by high-fidelity ECG) predicts incipient death.

76 FR 737 - Tobacco Products, Exemptions From Substantial Equivalence Requirements

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-01-06

... tobacco additive, or increasing or decreasing the quantity of an existing tobacco additive, from the... provision by July 1, 2011. ``Additive'' is defined at section 900(1) of the FD&C Act, as ``any substance the... substances intended for use as a flavoring or coloring or in producing, manufacturing, packing, processing...

Association of the Serotonin Receptor 3E Gene as a Functional Variant in the MicroRNA-510 Target Site with Diarrhea Predominant Irritable Bowel Syndrome in Chinese Women

PubMed Central

Zhang, Yu; Li, Yaoyao; Hao, Zhenfeng; Li, Xiangming; Bo, Ping; Gong, Weijuan

2016-01-01

Background/Aims The functional variant (rs56109847) in the 3′-untranslated regions (3′-UTR) of the serotonin receptor 3E (HTR3E) gene is associated with female diarrhea predominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-D) in British populations. However, the relationship of the polymorphism both to HTR3E expression in the intestine and to the occurrence of Chinese functional gastrointestinal disorders has yet to be examined. Methods Polymerase chain reaction amplification and restriction fragment length polymorphism analyses were employed to detect polymorphisms among Chinese Han women, particularly 107 patients with IBS-D, 99 patients with functional dyspepsia (FD), 115 patients with mixed IBS and 69 patients with IBS-D + FD. We also assessed microRNA-510 (miR-510) and HTR3E expression in human colonic mucosal tissues with immunohistochemistry and other methods. Dual-luciferase reporter assays were conducted to examine the binding ability of miR-510 and HTR3E 3′-UTR. Results Genotyping data showed the variant rs56109847 was significantly associated with IBS-D, but not with FD, mixed-IBS, or FD + IBS-D. HTR3E was abundantly expressed around the colonic mucosal glands but less expressed in the stroma. miR-510 expression decreased, whereas HTR3E expression increased in the colonic mucosal tissue of patients with IBS-D compared with those in controls. HTR3E expression was significantly higher in patients with the GA genotype than that in patients with the GG genotype. The single-nucleotide polymorphisms disrupted the binding site of miR-510 and significantly upregulated luciferase expression in HEK293 and HT-29 cells. Conclusions The single-nucleotide polymorphisms rs56109847 led to reduced microRNA binding and overexpression of the target gene in intestinal cells, thereby increasing IBS-D risk in the Chinese Han population. The decreased expression of miR-510 might contribute to IBS-D. PMID:26787495

Globotriaosylsphingosine (Lyso-Gb3) as a biomarker for cardiac variant (N215S) Fabry disease.

PubMed

Alharbi, Fahad J; Baig, Shanat; Auray-Blais, Christiane; Boutin, Michel; Ward, Douglas G; Wheeldon, Nigel; Steed, Rick; Dawson, Charlotte; Hughes, Derralynn; Geberhiwot, Tarekegn

2018-03-01

Fabry disease (FD) is a multi-systemic X-linked lysosomal disorder caused by the deficient activity of α-galactosidase-A enzyme, which leads to accumulation of glycosphingolipids in various body tissues. The N215S mutation is a known variant of FD, with a late onset cardiac phenotype. Consensus guidelines acknowledged the use of globotriaosylsphingosine (Lyso-Gb 3 ) as a diagnostic marker for classical FD but its utility for cardiac variant FD is not clear. We aim to characterize the clinical features and evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of plasma and urinary Lyso-Gb 3 levels in N215S cardiac variant FD patients. Thirty-four FD patients with the late-onset N215S cardiac variant mutation were enrolled along with 62 classical FD patients and 109 healthy controls. Plasma and urinary Lyso-Gb 3 and its analogues were analyzed by LC-MS/MS. Both FD males and females with N215S mutation showed Lyso-Gb 3 levels of (mean ± SEM) 9.7 ± 1.0 and 5.4 ± 0.8 nM, respectively. These levels were significantly higher than healthy control and lower than classical FD patients (p < 0.0001). Plasma Lyso-Gb 3 levels equal to or higher than 2.7 nM yielded a diagnostic sensitivity and specificity of 100% (AUC = 1, p < 0.0001). Cardiac involvement was frequent with 16/34 (47%) developing left ventricular hypertrophy. Three patients who underwent renal biopsy had the characteristic sphingolipid deposition in the podocytes while 6/19 (32%) had evidence of white matter changes or infarct on brain MRI. Taken together, cardiac variant N215S mutation is rather an attenuated form of classical FD. Plasma Lyso-Gb 3 is a diagnostic hallmark to differentiate N215S variant phenotype from subjects with no FD.

Evaluation of a UCMK/dCK fusion enzyme for gemcitabine-mediated cytotoxicity

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

Johnson, Adam J.; Brown, Melissa N.; Black, Margaret E., E-mail: blackm@vetmed.wsu.edu

2011-12-09

Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Goal was to enhance dFdC cytotoxicity by the creation of a UCMK/dCK fusion enzyme. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer The UCMK/dCK fusion enzyme possesses both native activities. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer The fusion renders cells equally sensitive to dFdC relative to dCK expression alone. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Dual activities of fusion not sufficient to augment cell dFdC sensitivity in vitro. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Data may warrant the implementation of UCMK mutagenesis studies. -- Abstract: While gemcitabine (2 Prime -2 Prime -difluoro-2 Prime -deoxycytidine, dFdC) displays wide-ranging antineoplastic activity as a single agent, variable response rates and poor intracellular metabolism often limit its clinical efficacy. In an effort to enhancemore » dFdC cytotoxicity and help normalize response rates, we created a bifunctional fusion enzyme that combines the enzymatic activities of deoxycytidine kinase (dCK) and uridine/cytidine monophosphate kinase (UCMK) in a single polypeptide. Our goal was to evaluate whether the created fusion could induce beneficial, functional changes toward dFdC, expedite dFdC conversion to its active antimetabolites and consequently amplify cell dFdC sensitivity. While kinetic analyses revealed the UCMK/dCK fusion enzyme to possess both native activities, the fusion rendered cells sensitive to the cytotoxic effects of dFdC at the same level as dCK expression alone. These results suggest that increased wild-type UCMK expression does not provide a significant enhancement in dFdC-mediated cytotoxicity and may warrant the implementation of studies aimed at engineering UCMK variants with improved activity toward gemcitabine monophosphate.« less

Identifying Neural Patterns of Functional Dyspepsia Using Multivariate Pattern Analysis: A Resting-State fMRI Study

PubMed Central

Liu, Peng; Qin, Wei; Wang, Jingjing; Zeng, Fang; Zhou, Guangyu; Wen, Haixia; von Deneen, Karen M.; Liang, Fanrong; Gong, Qiyong; Tian, Jie

2013-01-01

Background Previous imaging studies on functional dyspepsia (FD) have focused on abnormal brain functions during special tasks, while few studies concentrated on the resting-state abnormalities of FD patients, which might be potentially valuable to provide us with direct information about the neural basis of FD. The main purpose of the current study was thereby to characterize the distinct patterns of resting-state function between FD patients and healthy controls (HCs). Methodology/Principal Findings Thirty FD patients and thirty HCs were enrolled and experienced 5-mintue resting-state scanning. Based on the support vector machine (SVM), we applied multivariate pattern analysis (MVPA) to investigate the differences of resting-state function mapped by regional homogeneity (ReHo). A classifier was designed by using the principal component analysis and the linear SVM. Permutation test was then employed to identify the significant contribution to the final discrimination. The results displayed that the mean classifier accuracy was 86.67%, and highly discriminative brain regions mainly included the prefrontal cortex (PFC), orbitofrontal cortex (OFC), supplementary motor area (SMA), temporal pole (TP), insula, anterior/middle cingulate cortex (ACC/MCC), thalamus, hippocampus (HIPP)/parahippocamus (ParaHIPP) and cerebellum. Correlation analysis revealed significant correlations between ReHo values in certain regions of interest (ROI) and the FD symptom severity and/or duration, including the positive correlations between the dmPFC, pACC and the symptom severity; whereas, the positive correlations between the MCC, OFC, insula, TP and FD duration. Conclusions These findings indicated that significantly distinct patterns existed between FD patients and HCs during the resting-state, which could expand our understanding of the neural basis of FD. Meanwhile, our results possibly showed potential feasibility of functional magnetic resonance imaging diagnostic assay for FD. PMID:23874543

Brain White Matter Shape Changes in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS): A Fractal Dimension Study

PubMed Central

Allexandre, Didier; Zhang, Luduan; Wang, Xiao-Feng; Pioro, Erik P.; Yue, Guang H.

2013-01-01

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal progressive neurodegenerative disorder. Current diagnosis time is about 12-months due to lack of objective methods. Previous brain white matter voxel based morphometry (VBM) studies in ALS reported inconsistent results. Fractal dimension (FD) has successfully been used to quantify brain WM shape complexity in various neurological disorders and aging, but not yet studied in ALS. Therefore, we investigated WM morphometric changes using FD analyses in ALS patients with different clinical phenotypes. We hypothesized that FD would better capture clinical features of the WM morphometry in different ALS phenotypes than VBM analysis. High resolution MRI T1-weighted images were acquired in controls (n = 11), and ALS patients (n = 89). ALS patients were assigned into four subgroups based on their clinical phenotypes.VBM analysis was carried out using SPM8. FD values were estimated for brain WM skeleton, surface and general structure in both controls and ALS patients using our previously published algorithm. No significant VBM WM changes were observed between controls and ALS patients and among the ALS subgroups. In contrast, significant (p<0.05) FD reductions in skeleton and general structure were observed between ALS with dementia and other ALS subgroups. No significant differences in any of the FD measures were observed between control and ALS patients. FD correlated significantly with revised ALS functional rating scale (ALSFRS-R) score a clinical measure of function. Results suggest that brain WM shape complexity is more sensitive to ALS disease process when compared to volumetric VBM analysis and FD changes are dependent on the ALS phenotype. Correlation between FD and clinical measures suggests that FD could potentially serve as a biomarker of ALS pathophysiology, especially after confirmation by longitudinal studies. PMID:24040000

Intraspecific functional diversity of common species enhances community stability

USGS Publications Warehouse

Wood, Connor M.; McKinney, Shawn T.; Loftin, Cynthia S.

2017-01-01

Common species are fundamental to the structure and function of their communities and may enhance community stability through intraspecific functional diversity (iFD). We measured among-habitat and within-habitat iFD (i.e., among- and within-plant community types) of two common small mammal species using stable isotopes and functional trait dendrograms, determined whether iFD was related to short-term population stability and small mammal community stability, and tested whether spatially explicit trait filters helped explain observed patterns of iFD. Southern red-backed voles (Myodes gapperi) had greater iFD than deer mice (Peromyscus maniculatus), both among habitats, and within the plant community in which they were most abundant (their “primary habitat”). Peromyscus maniculatus populations across habitats differed significantly between years and declined 78% in deciduous forests, their primary habitat, as did the overall deciduous forest small mammal community. Myodes gapperi populations were stable across habitats and within coniferous forest, their primary habitat, as was the coniferous forest small mammal community. Generalized linear models representing internal trait filters (e.g., competition), which increase within-habitat type iFD, best explained variation in M. gapperidiet, while models representing internal filters and external filters (e.g., climate), which suppress within-habitat iFD, best explained P. maniculatus diet. This supports the finding that M. gapperi had higher iFD than P. maniculatus and is consistent with the theory that internal trait filters are associated with higher iFD than external filters. Common species with high iFD can impart a stabilizing influence on their communities, information that can be important for conserving biodiversity under environmental change.

Advanced Electrocardiographic Predictors of Sudden Death in Familial Dysautonomia

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Solaimanzadeh, I.; Schlegel, T. T.; Greco, E. C.; DePalma, J. L.; Starc, V.; Marthol, H.; Tutaj, M.; Buechner, S.; Axelrod, F. B.; Hilz, M. J.

2007-01-01

To identify accurate predictors for the risk of sudden death in patients with familial dysautonomia (FD). Ten-minute resting high-fidelity 12-lead ECGs were obtained from 14 FD patients and 14 age/gender-matched healthy subjects. Multiple conventional and advanced ECG parameters were studied for their ability to predict sudden death in FD over a subsequent 4.5-year period, including multiple indices of linear and non-linear heart rate variability (HRV); QT variability; waveform complexity; high frequency QRS; and derived Frank-lead parameters. Four of the 14 FD patients died suddenly during the follow-up period, usually with concomitant pulmonary disorder. The presence of low vagally-mediated HRV was the ECG finding most predictive of sudden death. Concomitant left ventricular hypertrophy and other ECG abnormalities such as increased QTc and JTc intervals, spatial QRS-T angles, T-wave complexity, and QT variability were also present in FD patients, suggesting that structural heart disease is fairly common in FD. Although excessive or unopposed cardiac vagal (relative to sympathetic) activity has been postulated as a contributor to sudden death in FD, the presence of low vagally-mediated HRV was paradoxically the best predictor of sudden death. However, we suggest that low vagally-mediated HRV be construed not as a direct cause of sudden death in FD, but rather as an effect of concurrent pathological processes, especially hypoxia due to pulmonary disorders and sleep apnea, that themselves increase the risk of sudden death in FD and simultaneously diminish HRV. We speculate that adenosine may play a role in sudden death in FD, possibly independently of vagal activity, and that adenosine inhibitors such as theophylline might therefore be useful as prophylaxis in this disorder.

Exposure estimate for FD&C colour additives for the US population.

PubMed

Doell, Diana L; Folmer, Daniel E; Lee, Hyoung S; Butts, Kyla M; Carberry, Susan E

2016-05-01

Dietary exposures to the seven food, drug, and cosmetic (FD&C) colour additives that are approved for general use in food in the United States were estimated for the US population (aged 2 years and older), children (aged 2-5 years) and teenage boys (aged 13-18 years) based on analytical levels of the FD&C colour additives in foods. Approximately 600 foods were chosen for analysis, based on a survey of product labels, for the levels of FD&C colour additives. Dietary exposure was estimated using both 2-day food consumption data from the combined 2007-10 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) and 10-14-day food consumption data from the 2007-10 NPD Group, Inc. National Eating Trends - Nutrient Intake Database (NPD NET-NID). Dietary exposure was estimated at the mean and 90th percentile using three different exposure scenarios: low exposure, average exposure and high exposure, to account for the range in the amount of each FD&C colour additive for a given food. For all populations and all exposure scenarios, the highest cumulative eaters-only exposures in food were determined for FD&C Red No. 40, FD&C Yellow No. 5 and FD&C Yellow No. 6. In addition, the eaters-only exposure was estimated for individual food categories in order to determine which food categories contributed the most to the exposure for each FD&C colour additive. Breakfast Cereal, Juice Drinks, Soft Drinks, and Frozen Dairy Desserts/Sherbet (also referred to as Ice Cream, Frozen Yogurt, Sherbet (including Bars, Sticks, Sandwiches)) were the major contributing food categories to exposure for multiple FD&C colour additives for all three populations.

Soybean meal fermented by Aspergillus awamori increases the cytochrome P-450 content of the liver microsomes of mice.

PubMed

Kishida, T; Ataki, H; Takebe, M; Ebihara, K

2000-04-01

The effect of soybean meal fermented by Aspergillus awamori on the acute lethality of acetaldehyde, pentobarbital sleeping time, and cytochrome P-450 content of the hepatic microsomes was studied in mice. Most of the daidzin and genistin in soybean meal (SBM) were converted into the respective aglycones, daidzein and genistein, by fermentation. In experiment 1, mice were fed isonitrogenic test diets with one of the following five protein sources for 28 d: casein, SBM, fermented and hot-air-dried SBM (FSBM-HD), fermented and freeze-dried SBM (FSBM-FD), or methanol-extracted FSBM-FD (FSMB-FD-R). The acute lethality of acetaldehyde in mice fed the FSBM-FD diet was significantly lower than that in mice fed the SBM, FSBM-HD, or FSBM-FD-R diet. In experiments 2 and 3, mice were fed isonitrogenic test diets with one of the following four protein sources for 28 d: casein, SBM, FSBM-FD, and FSBM-FD-R. The pentobarbital sleeping time was significantly shorter and the cytochrome P-450 content was significantly higher in the mice fed the FSBM-FD diet than the respective value in mice fed the other test diets. In experiment 4, mice were fed one of eight diets which contained different levels of aglycone obtained by varying the proportion of FSBM-FD and FSBM-FD-R, for 28 d. The cytochrome P-450 content in hepatic microsomes increased as the dietary level of isoflavonoid aglycones increased, but there was a saturation phenomenon. These results suggest that soy isoflavonoid aglycones are more potent inducers of cytochrome P-450 than isoflavonoid glycosides.

Exposure estimate for FD&C colour additives for the US population

PubMed Central

Folmer, Daniel E.; Lee, Hyoung S.; Butts, Kyla M.; Carberry, Susan E.

2016-01-01

Dietary exposures to the seven food, drug, and cosmetic (FD&C) colour additives that are approved for general use in food in the United States were estimated for the US population (aged 2 years and older), children (aged 2–5 years) and teenage boys (aged 13–18 years) based on analytical levels of the FD&C colour additives in foods. Approximately 600 foods were chosen for analysis, based on a survey of product labels, for the levels of FD&C colour additives. Dietary exposure was estimated using both 2-day food consumption data from the combined 2007–10 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) and 10–14-day food consumption data from the 2007–10 NPD Group, Inc. National Eating Trends – Nutrient Intake Database (NPD NET-NID). Dietary exposure was estimated at the mean and 90th percentile using three different exposure scenarios: low exposure, average exposure and high exposure, to account for the range in the amount of each FD&C colour additive for a given food. For all populations and all exposure scenarios, the highest cumulative eaters-only exposures in food were determined for FD&C Red No. 40, FD&C Yellow No. 5 and FD&C Yellow No. 6. In addition, the eaters-only exposure was estimated for individual food categories in order to determine which food categories contributed the most to the exposure for each FD&C colour additive. Breakfast Cereal, Juice Drinks, Soft Drinks, and Frozen Dairy Desserts/Sherbet (also referred to as Ice Cream, Frozen Yogurt, Sherbet (including Bars, Sticks, Sandwiches)) were the major contributing food categories to exposure for multiple FD&C colour additives for all three populations. PMID:27092991

The multifarious temporal variations of low energy, relativistic cosmic ray electrons

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mcdonald, F. B.; Cline, T. L.; Simnett, G. M.

1972-01-01

A detailed examination is made of the intensity variations of 3 - 12 MeV interplanetary electrons. The data used are from the cosmic ray experiment flown on the IMP solar minimum through to the onset of the present solar maximum (i.e., from December 1963 through August 1969). A morphology for the intensity changes is tentatively proposed which includes solar flare-associated events, solar co-rotating increases, Forbush decreases, and quiet-time increases, as well as the long term eleven-year variation. It is contended that the electron component observed both during quiescent times and during quiet-time increases are galactic in origin. The quiet-time increases represent a completely new phenomenon that appears to be unique to the low energy electron population. During a quiet-time increase the electron intensity is enhanced by a factor of 3 to 5 over a period of days, and, in general, these periods anti-correlate with low-energy solar particle events. Qualitatively, their amplitude diminishes with increasing solar activity.

Multifarious temporal variations of low-energy relativistic cosmic-ray electrons.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mcdonald, F. B.; Cline, T. L.; Simnett, G. M.

1972-01-01

Detailed examination of the intensity variations of 3- to 12-MeV interplanetary electrons. The data are from the Goddard cosmic-ray experiment on the Imp satellites and cover the period from just before the last solar minimum through the onset of the present solar maximum (i.e., from December 1963 through August 1969). A morphology for the intensity changes is tentatively proposed that includes solar-flare-associated events, solar co-rotating increases, Forbush decreases, quiet-time increases, and the long-term 11-year variation. It is contended that the electron components observed both during quiescent times and during quiet-time increases are galactic in origin. The quiet-time increases represent a completely new phenomenon that appears to be unique to the low-energy electron population. During a quiet-time increase the electron intensity is enhanced by a factor of 3 to 5 over a period of days, and, in general, these periods anticorrelate with low-energy solar particle events. Qualitatively, their amplitude diminishes with increasing solar activity.

Altered structural covariance of the striatum in functional dyspepsia patients.

PubMed

Liu, P; Zeng, F; Yang, F; Wang, J; Liu, X; Wang, Q; Zhou, G; Zhang, D; Zhu, M; Zhao, R; Wang, A; Gong, Q; Liang, F

2014-08-01

Functional dyspepsia (FD) is thought to be involved in dysregulation within the brain-gut axis. Recently, altered striatum activation has been reported in patients with FD. However, the gray matter (GM) volumes in the striatum and structural covariance patterns of this area are rarely explored. The purpose of this study was to examine the GM volumes and structural covariance patterns of the striatum between FD patients and healthy controls (HCs). T1-weighted magnetic resonance images were obtained from 44 FD patients and 39 HCs. Voxel-based morphometry (VBM) analysis was adopted to examine the GM volumes in the two groups. The caudate- or putamen-related regions identified from VBM analysis were then used as seeds to map the whole brain voxel-wise structural covariance patterns. Finally, a correlation analysis was used to investigate the effects of FD symptoms on the striatum. The results showed increased GM volumes in the bilateral putamen and right caudate. Compared with the structural covariance patterns of the HCs, the FD-related differences were mainly located in the amygdala, hippocampus/parahippocampus (HIPP/paraHIPP), thalamus, lingual gyrus, and cerebellum. And significant positive correlations were found between the volumes in the striatum and the FD duration in the patients. These findings provided preliminary evidence for GM changes in the striatum and different structural covariance patterns in patients with FD. The current results might expand our understanding of the pathophysiology of FD. © 2014 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

In vivo imaging of the Mouse Model of X-Linked Juvenile Retinoschisis Using Fourier Domain Optical Coherence Tomography

PubMed Central

Xu, Jing; Molday, Laurie L.; Molday, Robert S.; Sarunic, Marinko V.

2009-01-01

Purpose The purpose of this study is to investigate Fourier Domain Optical Coherence Tomography (FD OCT) as a non-invasive tool for retinal imaging in the Rs1h knockout mouse (model for X-linked Juvenile Retinoschisis). Methods A prototype spectrometer based FD OCT system was used in combination with a custom optical beam-scanning platform. Images of the retinas from wild type and Rs1h knockout mice were acquired non-invasively using FD OCT with the specimen anesthetized. At the completion of the non-invasive FD OCT imaging, invasive retinal cross sectional images (histology) were acquired from a nearby region for comparison to the FD OCT images. Results The retinal layers could be identified in the FD OCT images, permitting delineation and thickness measurement of the outer nuclear layer (ONL). During FD OCT in vivo imaging of the Rs1h knockout mouse, holes were observed in the inner nuclear layer (INL) and retinal cell disorganization was observed as a change in the backscattering intensity profile. Comparison of the ONL measurements acquired non-invasively using FD OCT to measurements taken using histology at nearby locations showed a degeneration of roughly thirty percent of the ONL by the age of two months in Rs1h knockout mice relative to wild type. Conclusions FD OCT has been demonstrated for non-invasive imaging of retinal degeneration and observation of retinal holes in Rs1h knockout mice. PMID:19182246

Gemcitabine diphosphate choline is a major metabolite linked to the Kennedy pathway in pancreatic cancer models in vivo

PubMed Central

Bapiro, T E; Frese, K K; Courtin, A; Bramhall, J L; Madhu, B; Cook, N; Neesse, A; Griffiths, J R; Tuveson, D A; Jodrell, D I; Richards, F M

2014-01-01

Background: The modest benefits of gemcitabine (dFdC) therapy in patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) are well documented, with drug delivery and metabolic lability cited as important contributing factors. We have used a mouse model of PDAC: KRASG12D; p53R172H; pdx-Cre (KPC) that recapitulates the human disease to study dFdC intra-tumoural metabolism. Methods: LC-MS/MS and NMR were used to measure drug and physiological analytes. Cytotoxicity was assessed by the Sulphorhodamine B assay. Results: In KPC tumour tissue, we identified a new, Kennedy pathway-linked dFdC metabolite (gemcitabine diphosphate choline (GdPC)) present at equimolar amounts to its precursor, the accepted active metabolite gemcitabine triphosphate (dFdCTP). Utilising additional subcutaneous PDAC tumour models, we demonstrated an inverse correlation between GdPC/dFdCTP ratios and cytidine triphosphate (CTP). In tumour homogenates in vitro, CTP inhibited GdPC formation from dFdCTP, indicating competition between CTP and dFdCTP for CTP:phosphocholine cytidylyltransferase (CCT). As the structure of GdPC precludes entry into cells, potential cytotoxicity was assessed by stimulating CCT activity using linoleate in KPC cells in vitro, leading to increased GdPC concentration and synergistic growth inhibition after dFdC addition. Conclusions: GdPC is an important element of the intra-tumoural dFdC metabolic pathway in vivo. PMID:24874484

FdC1 and Leaf-Type Ferredoxins Channel Electrons From Photosystem I to Different Downstream Electron Acceptors.

PubMed

Guan, Xiaoqian; Chen, Shuai; Voon, Chia Pao; Wong, Kam-Bo; Tikkanen, Mikko; Lim, Boon L

2018-01-01

Plant-type ferredoxins in Arabidopsis transfer electrons from the photosystem I to multiple redox-driven enzymes involved in the assimilation of carbon, nitrogen, and sulfur. Leaf-type ferredoxins also modulate the switch between the linear and cyclic electron routes of the photosystems. Recently, two novel ferredoxin homologs with extra C-termini were identified in the Arabidopsis genome (AtFdC1, AT4G14890; AtFdC2, AT1G32550). FdC1 was considered as an alternative electron acceptor of PSI under extreme ferredoxin-deficient conditions. Here, we showed that FdC1 could interact with some, but not all, electron acceptors of leaf-type Fds, including the ferredoxin-thioredoxin reductase (FTR), sulfite reductase (SiR), and nitrite reductase (NiR). Photoreduction assay on cytochrome c and enzyme assays confirmed its capability to receive electrons from PSI and donate electrons to the Fd-dependent SiR and NiR but not to the ferredoxin-NADP + oxidoreductase (FNR). Hence, FdC1 and leaf-type Fds may play differential roles by channeling electrons from photosystem I to different downstream electron acceptors in photosynthetic tissues. In addition, the median redox potential of FdC1 may allow it to receive electrons from FNR in non-photosynthetic plastids.

Complementation of a red-light-indifferent cyanobacterial mutant.

PubMed Central

Chiang, G G; Schaefer, M R; Grossman, A R

1992-01-01

Many cyanobacteria alter their phycobilisome composition in response to changes in light wavelength in a process termed complementary chromatic adaptation. Mutant strains FdR1 and FdR2 of the filamentous cyanobacterium Fremyella diplosiphon are characterized by aberrant chromatic adaptation. Instead of adjusting to different wavelengths of light, FdR1 and FdR2 behave as if they are always in green light; they do not respond to red light. We have previously reported complementation of FdR1 by conjugal transfer of a wild-type genomic library. The complementing DNA has now been localized by genetic analysis to a region on the rescued genomic subclone that contains a gene designated rcaC. This region of DNA is also able to complement FdR2. Southern blot analysis of genomic DNA from FdR1 and FdR2 indicates that these strains harbor DNA insertions within the rcaC sequence that may have resulted from the activity of transposable genetic elements. The predicted amino acid sequence of RcaC shares strong identity to response regulators of bacterial two-component regulatory systems. This relationship is discussed in the context of the signal-transduction pathway mediating regulation of genes encoding phycobilisome polypeptides during chromatic adaptation. Images PMID:1409650

FdC1 and Leaf-Type Ferredoxins Channel Electrons From Photosystem I to Different Downstream Electron Acceptors

PubMed Central

Guan, Xiaoqian; Chen, Shuai; Voon, Chia Pao; Wong, Kam-Bo; Tikkanen, Mikko; Lim, Boon L.

2018-01-01

Plant-type ferredoxins in Arabidopsis transfer electrons from the photosystem I to multiple redox-driven enzymes involved in the assimilation of carbon, nitrogen, and sulfur. Leaf-type ferredoxins also modulate the switch between the linear and cyclic electron routes of the photosystems. Recently, two novel ferredoxin homologs with extra C-termini were identified in the Arabidopsis genome (AtFdC1, AT4G14890; AtFdC2, AT1G32550). FdC1 was considered as an alternative electron acceptor of PSI under extreme ferredoxin-deficient conditions. Here, we showed that FdC1 could interact with some, but not all, electron acceptors of leaf-type Fds, including the ferredoxin-thioredoxin reductase (FTR), sulfite reductase (SiR), and nitrite reductase (NiR). Photoreduction assay on cytochrome c and enzyme assays confirmed its capability to receive electrons from PSI and donate electrons to the Fd-dependent SiR and NiR but not to the ferredoxin-NADP+ oxidoreductase (FNR). Hence, FdC1 and leaf-type Fds may play differential roles by channeling electrons from photosystem I to different downstream electron acceptors in photosynthetic tissues. In addition, the median redox potential of FdC1 may allow it to receive electrons from FNR in non-photosynthetic plastids. PMID:29670639

No increase in prevalence of somatization in functional vs organic dyspepsia: a cross-sectional survey.

PubMed

Gracie, D J; Bercik, P; Morgan, D G; Bolino, C; Pintos-Sanchez, M I; Moayyedi, P; Ford, A C

2015-07-01

Psychological factors are associated with functional gastrointestinal (GI) disorders. Literature suggests that somatization is associated with functional dyspepsia (FD). However, the relationship between organic dyspepsia (OD), FD, and FD subtypes and somatization is poorly described. We aimed to examine this issue in a cross-sectional study of secondary care patients. Demographic and GI symptom data were collected from 4224 adult patients via the Rome III questionnaire. Somatization data were collected using the patient health questionnaire-12. Mean somatization score and number of somatic symptoms were compared between patients with organic and FD, and between FD subtypes using analysis of variance. The same comparison was undertaken for the proportion of patients reporting individual somatic symptoms. Exactly, 783 patients met criteria for dyspepsia, of whom 231 (29.5%) had organic disease following upper GI endoscopy. Mean somatization scores and number of somatic symptoms were no higher in functional vs OD (p = 0.23; p = 0.19). In addition, while the prevalence of somatization in FD was relatively high, there was no difference in severity of somatization in FD subgroups. Somatization is associated with functional and OD to the same degree. Overall severity of somatization did not appear to vary according to FD subtype. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Current management of functional dyspepsia: impact of Rome III subdivision

PubMed Central

Karamanolis, Georgios P.; Tack, Jan

2012-01-01

Functional dyspepsia (FD) is a highly prevalent disease characterized by symptoms originating from the gastroduodenal region in the absence of underlying organic disease. The Rome III consensus made a distinction between meal-induced and meal-unrelated symptoms and proposed subdivision of FD into postprandial distress syndrome and epigastric pain syndrome. The applicability of this subdivision and the impact on management are areas of active research. So far, empirical approaches are still employed for the treatment of FD, although various therapeutic modalities for FD have been explored; acid-suppressive, prokinetic, and fundic relaxant drugs, antidepressants and psychological therapies. FD remains a challenge and presents unmet clinical needs. PMID:24714074

Influence of pre-drying treatments on physicochemical and organoleptic properties of explosion puff dried jackfruit chips.

PubMed

Yi, Jianyong; Zhou, Linyan; Bi, Jinfeng; Chen, Qinqin; Liu, Xuan; Wu, Xinye

2016-02-01

The effects of hot air drying (AD), freeze drying (FD), infrared drying (IR), microwave drying (MV), vacuum drying (VD) as pre-drying treatments for explosion puff drying (EPD) on qualities of jackfruit chips were studied. The lowest total color differences (∆E) were found in the FD-, MV- and VD-EPD dried chips. Volume expansion effect (9.2 %) was only observed in the FD-EPD dried chips, which corresponded to its well expanded honeycomb microstructures and high rehydration rate. Compared with AD-, IR-, MV- and VD-EPD, the FD-EPD dried fruit chips exhibited lower hardness and higher crispness, indicative of a crispier texture. FD-EPD dried fruits also obtained high retentions of ascorbic acid, phenolics and carotenoids compared with that of the other puffed products. The results of sensory evaluation suggested that the FD-EPD was a more beneficial combination because it enhanced the overall qualities of jackfruit chips. In conclusion, the FD-EPD could be used as a novel combination drying method for processing valuable and/or high quality fruit chips.

Optimal variable-grid finite-difference modeling for porous media

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Xinxin; Yin, Xingyao; Li, Haishan

2014-12-01

Numerical modeling of poroelastic waves by the finite-difference (FD) method is more expensive than that of acoustic or elastic waves. To improve the accuracy and computational efficiency of seismic modeling, variable-grid FD methods have been developed. In this paper, we derived optimal staggered-grid finite difference schemes with variable grid-spacing and time-step for seismic modeling in porous media. FD operators with small grid-spacing and time-step are adopted for low-velocity or small-scale geological bodies, while FD operators with big grid-spacing and time-step are adopted for high-velocity or large-scale regions. The dispersion relations of FD schemes were derived based on the plane wave theory, then the FD coefficients were obtained using the Taylor expansion. Dispersion analysis and modeling results demonstrated that the proposed method has higher accuracy with lower computational cost for poroelastic wave simulation in heterogeneous reservoirs.

Review of FD-TD numerical modeling of electromagnetic wave scattering and radar cross section

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Taflove, Allen; Umashankar, Korada R.

1989-01-01

Applications of the finite-difference time-domain (FD-TD) method for numerical modeling of electromagnetic wave interactions with structures are reviewed, concentrating on scattering and radar cross section (RCS). A number of two- and three-dimensional examples of FD-TD modeling of scattering and penetration are provided. The objects modeled range in nature from simple geometric shapes to extremely complex aerospace and biological systems. Rigorous analytical or experimental validatons are provided for the canonical shapes, and it is shown that FD-TD predictive data for near fields and RCS are in excellent agreement with the benchmark data. It is concluded that with continuing advances in FD-TD modeling theory for target features relevant to the RCS problems and in vector and concurrent supercomputer technology, it is likely that FD-TD numerical modeling will occupy an important place in RCS technology in the 1990s and beyond.

Assessment of Fearless Dominance and Impulsive Antisociality via Normal Personality Measures: Convergent Validity, Criterion Validity, and Developmental Change

PubMed Central

Witt, Edward A.; Donnellan, M. Brent; Blonigen, Daniel M.; Krueger, Robert F.; Conger, Rand D.

2009-01-01

This report provides evidence for the reliability, validity, and developmental course of the psychopathic personality traits of Fearless Dominance (FD) and Impulsive Antisociality (IA) as assessed by items from Multidimensional Personality Questionnaire (MPQ; Patrick, Curtin, & Tellegen, 2002). In Study 1, MPQ-based measures of FD and IA were strongly correlated with their corresponding composite scores from the Psychopathic Personality Inventory-Revised (Lilienfeld & Widows, 2005). In Study 2, FD and IA had relatively distinct associations with measures of normal and maladaptive personality traits. In Study 3, FD and IA had substantial retest coefficients during the transition to adulthood and both traits showed average declines with an especially substantial drop in IA. In Study 4, FD and IA were correlated with measures of internalizing and externalizing problems in ways consistent with previous research and theory. Collectively, these results provide important information about the assessment of FD and IA. PMID:19365767

Gemcitabine treatment of rat soft tissue sarcoma with phosphatidyldiglycerol-based thermosensitive liposomes.

PubMed

Limmer, Simone; Hahn, Jasmin; Schmidt, Rebecca; Wachholz, Kirsten; Zengerle, Anja; Lechner, Katharina; Eibl, Hansjörg; Issels, Rolf D; Hossann, Martin; Lindner, Lars H

2014-09-01

The pyrimidine analogue gemcitabine (dFdC) is frequently used in the treatment of patients with solid tumors. However, after i.v. application dFdC is rapidly inactivated by metabolization. Here, the potential of thermosensitive liposomes based on 1,2-dipalmitoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphodiglycerol (DPPG2-TSL) were investigated as carrier and targeting system for delivery of dFdC in combination with local hyperthermia (HT). DPPG2-TSL were prepared by the lipid film hydration and extrusion method and characterized by dynamic light scattering, thin layer chromatography, phosphate assay and HPLC. In vivo experiments were performed in Brown Norway rats with a syngeneic soft tissue sarcoma. Local HT treatment was performed by light exposure. DPPG2-TSL were stable at 37°C in serum and showed a temperature dependent dFdC release >40°C. Plasma half-life of dFdC was strongly increased from 0.07 h (non-liposomal) to 0.53 h (liposomal, vesicle size 105 nm) or 2.59 h (liposomal, 129 nm). Therapy of BN175 tumors with dFdC encapsulated in DPPG2-TSL + HT showed significant improvement in tumor growth delay compared to non-liposomal dFdC without HT (p < 0.05), non-liposomal dFdC with HT (p < 0.01), and liposomal dFdC without HT (p < 0.05), respectively. Gemcitabine encapsulated in DPPG2-TSL in combination with local HT is a promising tool for the treatment of solid tumors. Therefore, these encouraging results ask for further investigation and evaluation.

Changes in flowering phenology of woody plants in North China

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dai, Junhu

2016-04-01

Over the past several decades, abundant evidences proved that the first flowering date of plants in northern hemisphere became earlier in response to climate warming. However, the existing results about impact of climate change on flowering duration are controversial. In this study, we studied temporal trends in first flowering date (FFD), end of flowering date (EFD) and flowering duration (FD) of 94 woody plants from 1963 to 2014 at three stations (Harbin, Beijing and Xi'an) in North China. Meanwhile, we analyzed the relationship between length of flowering periods and temperature using two phenological models (including regression model and growing degree day model). At all stations, more than 90% of observed species showed earlier flowering over time from 1963 to 2014. The average trends in FFD were 1.33, 1.77 and 3.01 days decade-1 at Harbin, Beijing and Xi'an, respectively. During the same period, EFD also became earlier by a mean rate of 2.19, 1.39 and 2.00 days decade-1, respectively. Regarding FD, a significant shortening of FD was observed at Harbin (-0.86 days decade-1), but FD extended by 0.37 and 1.01 days decade-1 at Beijing and Xi'an, respectively. At interspecific level, the plant species with longer FD tend to have stronger trends of FD extension. Through regression analyses, we found more than 85% of time series revealed a significant negative relationship between FFD (or EFD) and preseason temperature. The regression model could simulate the interannual changes in FFD and EFD with the mean goodness of fit (R2) ranging from 0.38 to 0.67, but failed to simulate the FD accurately, as R2 ranging from 0.09 to 0.18. Regarding to FFD and EFD, the growing degree day model could improved R2 of simuation, but also could not simulate FD accurately. Therefore, we concluded that the FFD and EFD advanced notably in recent six decades as a result of climate warming, but the direction of FD changes depended on locations and the species involved. In addition, the conventional phenological models could not explain most parts of interannual variance in FD, partly due superposition of errors caused by simultaneously simulating FFD and EFD. Therefore, the mechanism of FD changes and more drivers of FD such as soil moisture and light need to be further studied.

Agreement between Gonioscopic Examination and Swept Source Fourier Domain Anterior Segment Optical Coherence Tomography Imaging

PubMed Central

Nguyen, Donna; Minnal, Vandana R.

2016-01-01

Purpose. To evaluate interobserver, intervisit, and interinstrument agreements for gonioscopy and Fourier domain anterior segment optical coherence tomography (FD ASOCT) for classifying open and narrow angle eyes. Methods. Eighty-six eyes with open or narrow anterior chamber angles were included. The superior angle was classified open or narrow by 2 of 5 glaucoma specialists using gonioscopy and imaged by FD ASOCT in the dark. The superior angle of each FD ASOCT image was graded as open or narrow by 2 masked readers. The same procedures were repeated within 6 months. Kappas for interobserver and intervisit agreements for each instrument and interinstrument agreements were calculated. Results. The mean age was 50.9 (±18.4) years. Interobserver agreements were moderate to good for both gonioscopy (0.57 and 0.69) and FD ASOCT (0.58 and 0.75). Intervisit agreements were moderate to excellent for both gonioscopy (0.53 to 0.86) and FD ASOCT (0.57 and 0.85). Interinstrument agreements were fair to good (0.34 to 0.63), with FD ASOCT classifying more angles as narrow than gonioscopy. Conclusions. Both gonioscopy and FD ASOCT examiners were internally consistent with similar interobserver and intervisit agreements for angle classification. Agreement between instruments was fair to good, with FD ASOCT classifying more angles as narrow than gonioscopy. PMID:27990300

Genetic determinism of phenological traits highly affected by climate change in Prunus avium: flowering date dissected into chilling and heat requirements.

PubMed

Castède, Sophie; Campoy, José Antonio; García, José Quero; Le Dantec, Loïck; Lafargue, Maria; Barreneche, Teresa; Wenden, Bénédicte; Dirlewanger, Elisabeth

2014-04-01

The present study investigated the genetic determinism of flowering date (FD), dissected into chilling (CR) and heat (HR) requirements. Elucidation of the genetic determinism of flowering traits is crucial to anticipate the increasing of ecological misalignment of adaptative traits with novel climate conditions in most temperate-fruit species. CR and HR were evaluated over 3 yr and FD over 5 yr in an intraspecific sweet cherry (Prunus avium) F1 progeny, and FD over 6 yr in a different F1 progeny. One quantitative trait locus (QTL) with major effect and high stability between years of evaluation was detected for CR and FD in the same region of linkage group (LG) 4. For HR, no stable QTL was detected. Candidate genes underlying the major QTL on LG4 were investigated and key genes were identified for CR and FD. Phenotypic dissection of FD and year repetitions allowed us to identify CR as the high heritable component of FD and a high genotype × environment interaction for HR. QTLs for CR reported in this study are the first described in this species. Our results provide a foundation for the identification of genes involved in CR and FD in sweet cherry which could be used to develop ideotypes adapted to future climatic conditions. © 2014 INRA. New Phytologist © 2014 New Phytologist Trust.

In situ tissue engineering: endothelial growth patterns as a function of flow diverter design.

PubMed

Marosfoi, Miklos; Langan, Erin T; Strittmatter, Lara; van der Marel, Kajo; Vedantham, Srinivasan; Arends, Jennifer; Lylyk, Ivan R; Loganathan, Siddharth; Hendricks, Gregory M; Szikora, Istvan; Puri, Ajit S; Wakhloo, Ajay K; Gounis, Matthew J

2017-10-01

Vascular remodeling in response to implantation of a tissue engineering scaffold such as a flow diverter (FD) leads to the cure of intracranial aneurysms. We hypothesize that the vascular response is dependent on FD design, and CD34+ progenitor cells play an important role in the endothelialization of the implant. Sixteen rabbit aneurysms were randomly treated with two different single-layer braided FDs made of cobalt-chrome alloys. The FD-48 and FD-72 devices had 48 and 72 wires, respectively. Aneurysm occlusion rate was assessed during the final digital subtraction angiogram at 10, 20, 30, and 60 days (n=2 per device per time point). Implanted vessels were analyzed with scanning electron microscopy for tissue coverage, endothelialization, and immuno-gold labeling for CD34+ cells. Complete aneurysm occlusion rates were similar between the devices; however, complete or near complete occlusion was more frequently observed in aneurysms with neck ≤4.2 mm (p=0.008). Total tissue coverage at 10 days over the surface of the FD-48 and FD-72 devices was 56.4±11.6% and 76.6±3.6%, respectively. Endothelial cell growth over the surface was time-dependent for the FD-72 device (Spearman's r=0.86, p=0.013) but not for the FD-48 device (Spearman's r=-0.59, p=0.094). The endothelialization score was marginally correlated with the distance from the aneurysm neck for the FD-48 device (Spearman's r=1, p=0.083) but not for the FD-72 device (Spearman's r=0.8, p=0.33). CD34+ cells were present along the entirety of both devices at all time points. This study gives preliminary evidence that temporal and spatial endothelialization is dependent on FD design. Circulating CD34+ progenitor cells contribute to endothelialization throughout the healing process. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://www.bmj.com/company/products-services/rights-and-licensing/.

Disease Progression Modeling to Evaluate the Effects of Enzyme Replacement Therapy on Kidney Function in Adult Patients with the Classic Phenotype of Fabry Disease.

PubMed

Nowak, Albina; Koch, Gilbert; Huynh-Do, Uyen; Siegenthaler, Martin; Marti, Hans-Peter; Pfister, Marc

2017-01-01

Fabry disease (FD) is a rare inherited lysosomal storage disease with common and serious kidney complications. Enzyme replacement therapies (ERT) with agalsidase-α and -β were investigated to characterize their therapeutic effect on kidney function in FD patients with Classic phenotype. The prospective FD cohort consisted of 98 genetically confirmed patients (females, n = 61, males, n = 37). The median [interquartile range] follow-up time (time difference from first to last visit) was 9 [6, 12] years. The median age of ERT start was 36 [21 - 54] years for females and 39 [28 - 49] years for males. A disease progression model was developed to (i) characterize the time course of estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and (ii) evaluate therapeutic effects of ERT on kidney function. Change in eGFR over time was best described by the linear model. Females had stable kidney function with and without ERT (eGFR slopes of -0.07 ml/min/1.73m^2 per year and 0.52 ml/min/1.73m^2 per year, respectively). Males with ERT showed an eGFR decrease of -3.07 ml/min/1.73m^2 per year. Mathematical disease progression modeling indicates that there is no clear therapeutic effect of ERT on kidney function in adult patients with Classic Phenotype of FD. Interpretation of these findings should take into account that the study is not randomized and lacks a placebo controlled group. Further investigations are warranted to clarify whether earlier ERT initiation before 18 years of age, higher ERT dose or more intensive therapies can preserve kidney function. © 2017 The Author(s)Published by S. Karger AG, Basel.

Balance failure in single limb stance due to ankle sprain injury: an analysis of center of pressure using the fractal dimension method.

PubMed

Doherty, Cailbhe; Bleakley, Chris; Hertel, Jay; Caulfield, Brian; Ryan, John; Delahunt, Eamonn

2014-01-01

Instrumented postural control analysis plays an important role in evaluating the effects of injury on dynamic stability during balance tasks, and is often conveyed with measures based on the displacement of the center-of-pressure (COP) assessed with a force platform. However, the desired outcome of the task is frequently characterized by a loss of dynamic stability, secondary to injury. Typically, these failed trials are discarded during research investigations, with the potential loss of informative data pertaining to task success. The novelty of the present study is that COP characteristics of failed trials in injured participants are compared to successful trial data in another injured group, and a control group of participants, using the fractal dimension (FD) method. Three groups of participants attempted a task of eyes closed single limb stance (SLS): twenty-nine participants with acute ankle sprain successfully completed the task on their non-injured limb (successful injury group); twenty eight participants with acute ankle sprain failed their attempt on their injured limb (failed injury group); sixteen participants with no current injury successfully completed the task on their non-dominant limb (successful non-injured group). Between trial analyses of these groups revealed significant differences in COP trajectory FD (successful injury group: 1.58±0.06; failed injury group: 1.54±0.07; successful non-injured group: 1.64±0.06) with a large effect size (0.27). These findings demonstrate that successful eyes-closed SLS is characterized by a larger FD of the COP path when compared to failed trials, and that injury causes a decrease in COP path FD. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Fractal dimension assessment of brain white matter structural complexity post stroke in relation to upper-extremity motor function

PubMed Central

Zhang, Luduan; Butler, Andrew J.; Sun, Chang-Kai; Sahgal, Vinod; Wittenberg, George F.; Yue, Guang H.

2008-01-01

Little is known about the association between brain white matter (WM) structure and motor function in humans. This study investigated complexity of brain WM interior shape as determined by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and its relationship with upper-extremity (UE) motor function in patients post stroke. We hypothesized that (1) the WM complexity would decrease following stroke, and (2) higher WM complexity in non-affected cortical areas would be related to greater UE motor function. Thirty-eight stroke patients (16 with left-hemisphere lesions) underwent MRI anatomical brain scans. Fractal dimension (FD), a quantitative shape metric, was applied onto skeletonized brain WM images to evaluate WM internal structural complexity. Wolf Motor Function Test (WMFT) and Fugl-Meyer Motor Assessment (FM) scores were measured to assess motor function of the affected limb. The WM complexity was lower in the stroke-affected hemisphere. The FD was associated with better motor function in two subgroups: with left-subcortical lesions, FD values of the lesion-free areas of the left hemisphere were associated with better FM scores; with right-cortical lesions, FD values of lesion-free regions were robustly associated with better WMFT scores. These findings suggest that greater residual WM complexity is associated with less impaired UE motor function, which is more robust in patients with right-hemisphere lesions. No correlations were found between lesion volume and WMFT or FM scores. This study addressed WM complexity in stroke patients and its relationship with UE motor function. Measurement of brain WM reorganization may be a sensitive correlate of UE function in people recovering from stroke. PMID:18590710

Short-term nutritional folate deficiency in rats has a greater effect on choline and acetylcholine metabolism in the peripheral nervous system than in the brain, and this effect escalates with age.

PubMed

Crivello, Natalia A; Blusztajn, Jan K; Joseph, James A; Shukitt-Hale, Barbara; Smith, Donald E

2010-10-01

The hypothesis of this study is that a folate-deficient diet (FD) has a greater effect on cholinergic system in the peripheral nervous system than in the brain, and that this effect escalates with age. It was tested by comparing choline and acetylcholine levels in male Sprague Dawley rats fed either control or folate-deficient diets for 10 weeks, starting at age 4 weeks (the young group) or 9 months (the adult group). Folate-deficient diet consumption resulted in depletion of plasma folate in both age groups. In young folate-deficient rats, liver and lung choline levels were significantly lower than those in the respective controls. No other significant effects of FD on choline and acetylcholine metabolism were found in young rats. In adult rats, FD consumption markedly decreased choline levels in the liver, kidneys, and heart; furthermore, choline levels in the cortex and striatum were moderately elevated, although hippocampal choline levels were not affected. Acetylcholine levels were higher in the heart, cortex, and striatum but lower in the hippocampus in adult folate-deficient rats, as compared to controls. Higher acetylcholine levels in the striatum in adult folate-deficient rats were also associated with higher dopamine release in the striatal slices. Thus, both age groups showed higher cholinergic metabolic sensitivity to FD in the peripheral nervous system than in the brain. However, compensatory abilities appeared to be better in the young group, implicating the adult group as a preferred model for further investigation of folate-choline-acetylcholine interactions and their role in brain plasticity and cognitive functions. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

A randomized double-blind placebo-controlled crossover-style trial of buspirone in functional dysphagia and ineffective esophageal motility.

PubMed

Aggarwal, Nitin; Thota, Prashanthi Nagavenkata; Lopez, Rocio; Gabbard, Scott

2018-02-01

Studies suggest that Ineffective Esophageal Motility (IEM) is the manometric correlate of Functional Dysphagia (FD). Currently, there is no accepted therapy for either condition. Buspirone is a serotonin modulating medication and has been shown to augment esophageal peristaltic amplitude in healthy volunteers. We aimed to determine if buspirone improves manometric parameters and symptoms in patients with overlapping IEM/FD. We performed a prospective, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover-style trial of 10 patients with IEM/FD. The study consisted of two 2-week treatment arms with a 2-week washout period. Outcomes measured at baseline, end of week 2, and week 6 include high resolution esophageal manometry (HREM), the Mayo Dysphagia Questionnaire-14 (MDQ-14), and the GERD-HRQL. The mean age of our 10 patients was 53 ± 9 years and 70% were female. After treatment with buspirone, 30% of patients had normalization of IEM on manometry; however, there was 30% normalization in the placebo group as well. Comparing buspirone to placebo, there was no statistically significant difference in the HREM parameters measured. There was also no statistically significant difference in symptom outcomes for buspirone compared to placebo. Of note, patients had a statistically significant decrease in the total GERD-HRQL total score when treated with placebo compared to baseline levels. Despite previous data demonstrating improved esophageal motility in healthy volunteers, our study shows no difference in terms of HREM parameters or symptom scores in IEM/FD patients treated with buspirone compared to placebo. Further research is necessary to identify novel agents for this condition. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Vision-guided ocular growth in a mutant chicken model with diminished visual acuity

PubMed Central

Ritchey, Eric R.; Zelinka, Christopher; Tang, Junhua; Liu, Jun; Code, Kimberly A.; Petersen-Jones, Simon; Fischer, Andy J.

2012-01-01

Visual experience is known to guide ocular growth. We tested the hypothesis that vision-guided ocular growth is disrupted in a model system with diminished visual acuity. We examine whether ocular elongation is influenced by form-deprivation (FD) and lens-imposed defocus in the Retinopathy, Globe Enlarged (RGE) chicken. Young RGE chicks have poor visual acuity, without significant retinal pathology, resulting from a mutation in guanine nucleotide-binding protein β3 (GNB3), also known as transducin β3 or Gβ3. The mutation in GNB3 destabilizes the protein and causes a loss of Gβ3 from photoreceptors and ON-bipolar cells. (Ritchey et al. 2010)FD increased ocular elongation in RGE eyes in a manner similar to that seen in wild-type (WT) eyes. By comparison, the excessive ocular elongation that results from hyperopic defocus was increased, whereas myopic defocus failed to significantly decrease ocular elongation in RGE eyes. Brief daily periods of unrestricted vision interrupting FD prevented ocular elongation in RGE chicks in a manner similar to that seen in WT chicks. Glucagonergic amacrine cells differentially expressed the immediate early gene Egr1 in response to growth-guiding stimuli in RGE retinas, but the defocus-dependent up-regulation of Egr1 was lesser in RGE retinas compared to that of WT retinas. We conclude that high visual acuity, and the retinal signaling mediated by Gβ3, is not required for emmetropization and the excessive ocular elongation caused by FD and hyperopic defocus. However, the loss of acuity and Gβ3 from RGE retinas causes enhanced responses to hyperopic defocus and diminished responses to myopic defocus. PMID:22824538

Agalsidase alfa versus agalsidase beta for the treatment of Fabry disease: an international cohort study

PubMed Central

Biegstraaten, Marieke; Wanner, Christoph; Sirrs, Sandra; Mehta, Atul; Elliott, Perry M; Oder, Daniel; Watkinson, Oliver T; Bichet, Daniel G; Khan, Aneal; Iwanochko, Mark; Vaz, Frédéric M; van Kuilenburg, André B P; West, Michael L; Hughes, Derralynn A; Hollak, Carla E M

2018-01-01

Background Two recombinant enzymes (agalsidase alfa 0.2 mg/kg/every other week and agalsidase beta 1.0 mg/kg/every other week) have been registered for the treatment of Fabry disease (FD), at equal high costs. An independent international initiative compared clinical and biochemical outcomes of the two enzymes. Methods In this multicentre retrospective cohort study, clinical event rate, left ventricular mass index (LVMI), estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), antibody formation and globotriaosylsphingosine (lysoGb3) levels were compared between patients with FD treated with agalsidase alfa and beta at their registered dose after correction for phenotype and sex. Results 387 patients (192 women) were included, 248 patients received agalsidase alfa. Mean age at start of enzyme replacement therapy was 46 (±15) years. Propensity score matched analysis revealed a similar event rate for both enzymes (HR 0.96, P=0.87). The decrease in plasma lysoGb3 was more robust following treatment with agalsidase beta, specifically in men with classical FD (β: −18 nmol/L, P<0.001), persisting in the presence of antibodies. The risk to develop antibodies was higher for patients treated with agalsidase beta (OR 2.8, P=0.04). LVMI decreased in a higher proportion following the first year of agalsidase beta treatment (OR 2.27, P=0.03), while eGFR slopes were similar. Conclusions Treatment with agalsidase beta at higher dose compared with agalsidase alfa does not result in a difference in clinical events, which occurred especially in those with more advanced disease. A greater biochemical response, also in the presence of antibodies, and better reduction in left ventricular mass was observed with agalsidase beta. PMID:29437868

Combined deep sampling and mass-based approaches to assess soil carbon and nitrogen losses due to land-use changes in karst area of southwestern China

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hu, Yecui; Du, Zhangliu; Wang, Qibing; Li, Guichun

2016-07-01

The conversion of natural vegetation to human-managed ecosystems, especially the agricultural systems, may decrease soil organic carbon (SOC) and total nitrogen (TN) stocks. The objective of present study was to assess SOC and TN stocks losses by combining deep sampling with mass-based calculations upon land-use changes in a typical karst area of southwestern China. We quantified the changes from native forest to grassland, secondary shrub, eucalyptus plantation, sugarcane and corn fields (both defined as croplands), on the SOC and TN stocks down to 100 cm depth using fixed-depth (FD) and equivalent soil mass (ESM) approaches. The results showed that converting forest to cropland and other types significantly led to SOC and TN losses, but the extent depended on both sampling depths and calculation methods selected (i.e., FD or ESM). On average, the shifting from native forest to cropland led to SOC losses by 19.1, 25.1, 30.6, 36.8 and 37.9 % for the soil depths of 0-10, 0-20, 0-40, 0-60 and 0-100 cm, respectively, which highlighted that shallow sampling underestimated SOC losses. Moreover, the FD method underestimated SOC and TN losses for the upper 40 cm layer, but overestimated the losses in the deeper layers. We suggest that the ESM together with deep sampling should be encouraged to detect the differences in SOC stocks. In conclusion, the conversion of forest to managed systems, in particular croplands significantly decreased in SOC and TN stocks, although the effect magnitude to some extent depended on sampling depth and calculation approach selected.

Development of a Symptom-Based Patient-Reported Outcome Instrument for Functional Dyspepsia: A Preliminary Conceptual Model and an Evaluation of the Adequacy of Existing Instruments.

PubMed

Taylor, Fiona; Reasner, David S; Carson, Robyn T; Deal, Linda S; Foley, Catherine; Iovin, Ramon; Lundy, J Jason; Pompilus, Farrah; Shields, Alan L; Silberg, Debra G

2016-10-01

The aim was to document, from the perspective of the empirical literature, the primary symptoms of functional dyspepsia (FD), evaluate the extent to which existing questionnaires target those symptoms, and, finally, identify any missing evidence that would impact the questionnaires' use in regulated clinical trials to assess treatment efficacy claims intended for product labeling. A literature review was conducted to identify the primary symptoms of FD and existing symptom-based FD patient-reported outcome (PRO) instruments. Following a database search, abstracts were screened and articles were retrieved for review. The primary symptoms of FD were organized into a conceptual model and the PRO instruments were evaluated for conceptual coverage as well as compared against evidentiary requirements presented in the FDA's PRO Guidance for Industry. Fifty-six articles and 16 instruments assessing FD symptoms were reviewed. Concepts listed in the Rome III criteria for FD (n = 7), those assessed by existing FD instruments (n = 34), and symptoms reported by patients in published qualitative research (n = 6) were summarized in the FD conceptual model. Except for vomiting, all of the identified symptoms from the published qualitative research reports were also specified in the Rome III criteria. Only three of the 16 instruments, the Dyspepsia Symptom Severity Index (DSSI), Nepean Dyspepsia Index (NDI), and Short-Form Nepean Dyspepsia Index (SF-NDI), measure all seven FD symptoms defined by the Rome III criteria. Among these three, each utilizes a 2-week recall period and 5-point Likert-type scale, and had evidence of patient involvement in development. Despite their coverage, when these instruments were evaluated in light of regulatory expectations, several issues jeopardized their potential qualification for substantiation of a labeling claim. No existing PRO instruments that measured all seven symptoms adhered to the regulatory principles necessary to support product labeling. As such, the development of a new FD symptom PRO instrument is supported.

Tocotrienol Treatment in Familial Dysautonomia: Open-Label Pilot Study.

PubMed

Cheishvili, David; Maayan, Channa; Holzer, Naama; Tsenter, Jeanna; Lax, Elad; Petropoulos, Sophie; Razin, Aharon

2016-07-01

Familial dysautonomia (FD) is an autosomal recessive congenital neuropathy, primarily presented in Ashkenazi Jews. The most common mutation in FD patients results from a single base pair substitution of an intronic splice site in the IKBKAP gene which disrupts normal mRNA splicing and leads to tissue-specific reduction of IKBKAP protein (IKAP). To date, treatment of FD patients remains preventative, symptomatic and supportive. Based on previous in vitro evidence that tocotrienols, members of the vitamin E family, upregulate transcription of the IKBKAP gene, we aimed to investigate whether a similar effects was observed in vivo. In the current study, we assessed the effects of tocotrienol treatment on FD patients' symptoms and IKBKAP expression in white blood cells. The initial daily doses of 50 or 100 mg tocotrienol, doubled after 3 months, was administered to 32 FD patients. Twenty-eight FD patients completed the 6-month study. The first 3 months of tocotrienol treatment was associated with a significant increase in IKBKAP expression level in FD patients' blood. Despite doubling the dose after the initial 3 months of treatment, IKBKAP expression level returned to baseline by the end of the 6-month treatment. Clinical improvement was noted in the reported clinical questionnaire (with regard to dizziness, bloching, sweating, number of pneumonia, cough episodes, and walking stability), however, no significant effect was observed in any clinical measurements (weight, height, oxygen saturation, blood pressure, tear production, histamine test, vibration threshold test, nerve conduction, and heart rate variability) following Tocotrienol treatment. In conclusion, tocotrienol treatment appears significantly beneficial by clinical evaluation for some FD patients in a few clinical parameters; however it was not significant by clinical measurements. This open-label study shows the complexity of effect of tocotrienol treatment on FD patients' clinical outcomes and on IKBKAP expression level compared to in vitro results. A longitudinal study with an increased sample size is required in the future to better understand tocotrienol affect on FD patients.

Functional dyspepsia

PubMed Central

Brun, Rita; Kuo, Braden

2010-01-01

Dyspepsia is a common term used for a heterogeneous group of abdominal symptoms. Functional dyspepsia (FD) is the focus of this review. The 2006 Rome III criteria defined FD and its subgroups, postprandial distress syndrome (PDS) and epigastric pain syndrome (EPS). FD is a very common condition with a high prevalence throughout the world, adversely affecting the quality of life of patients. The pathophysiology of FD has been under investigation during the past two decades. Multiple mechanisms such as abnormal gastric emptying, visceral hypersensitivity, impaired gastric accommodation, and central nervous system factors are likely involved. Several tests are available for the assessment of various physiologic functions possibly involved in the pathogenesis of FD, and some of these could be used in clinical practice, helping to understand the abnormalities underlining patients’ complaints. Currently, the possibilities of pharmacological therapy for FD are still limited, however, experience of using prokinetics, tricyclic antidepressants, selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs), and several alternative techniques has been accumulated. The different combinations of alterations in physiologic gastrointestinal and central nervous system functions result in the very heterogeneous nature of FD so combined approaches to these patients could be beneficial in challenging cases. PMID:21180597

Enzyme replacement therapy for Fabry disease: some answers but more questions.

PubMed

Alfadhel, Majid; Sirrs, Sandra

2011-01-01

Fabry disease (FD) is a multisystem, X-linked disorder of glycosphingolipid metabolism caused by enzyme deficiency of α-galactosidase A. Affected patients have symptoms including acroparesthesias, angiokeratomas, and hypohidrosis. More serious manifestations include debilitating pain and gastrointestinal symptoms, proteinuria and gradual deterioration of renal function leading to end-stage renal disease, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, and stroke. Heterozygous females may have symptoms as severe as males with the classic phenotype. Before 2001, treatment of patients with FD was supportive. The successful development of enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) has been a great advancement in the treatment of patients with FD and can stabilize renal function and cardiac size, as well as improve pain and quality of life of patients with FD. In this review, we have provided a critical appraisal of the literature on the effects of ERT for FD. This analysis shows that data available on the treatment of FD are often derived from studies which are not controlled, rely on surrogate markers, and are of insufficient power to detect differences on hard clinical endpoints. Further studies of higher quality are needed to answer the questions that remain concerning the efficacy of ERT for FD.

Analysis of Texture Using the Fractal Model

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Navas, William; Espinosa, Ramon Vasquez

1997-01-01

Properties such as the fractal dimension (FD) can be used for feature extraction and classification of regions within an image. The FD measures the degree of roughness of a surface, so this number is used to characterize a particular region, in order to differentiate it from another. There are two basic approaches discussed in the literature to measure FD: the blanket method, and the box counting method. Both attempt to measure FD by estimating the change in surface area with respect to the change in resolution. We tested both methods but box counting resulted computationally faster and gave better results. Differential Box Counting (DBC) was used to segment a collage containing three textures. The FD is independent of directionality and brightness so five features were used derived from the original image to account for directionality and gray level biases. FD can not be measured on a point, so we use a window that slides across the image giving values of FD to the pixel on the center of the window. Windowing blurs the boundaries of adjacent classes, so an edge-preserving, feature-smoothing algorithm is used to improve classification within segments and to make the boundaries sharper. Segmentation using DBC was 90.8910 accurate.

Characterization of Ferredoxin-Dependent Glutamine-Oxoglutarate Amidotransferase (Fd-GOGAT) Genes and Their Relationship with Grain Protein Content QTL in Wheat

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background In higher plants, inorganic nitrogen is assimilated via the glutamate synthase cycle or GS-GOGAT pathway. GOGAT enzyme occurs in two distinct forms that use NADH (NADH-GOGAT) or Fd (Fd-GOGAT) as electron carriers. The goal of the present study was to characterize wheat Fd-GOGAT genes and to assess the linkage with grain protein content (GPC), an important quantitative trait controlled by multiple genes. Results We report the complete genomic sequences of the three homoeologous A, B and D Fd-GOGAT genes from hexaploid wheat (Triticum aestivum) and their localization and characterization. The gene is comprised of 33 exons and 32 introns for all the three homoeologues genes. The three genes show the same exon/intron number and size, with the only exception of a series of indels in intronic regions. The partial sequence of the Fd-GOGAT gene located on A genome was determined in two durum wheat (Triticum turgidum ssp. durum) cvs Ciccio and Svevo, characterized by different grain protein content. Genomic differences allowed the gene mapping in the centromeric region of chromosome 2A. QTL analysis was conducted in the Svevo×Ciccio RIL mapping population, previously evaluated in 5 different environments. The study co-localized the Fd-GOGAT-A gene with the marker GWM-339, identifying a significant major QTL for GPC. Conclusions The wheat Fd-GOGAT genes are highly conserved; both among the three homoeologous hexaploid wheat genes and in comparison with other plants. In durum wheat, an association was shown between the Fd-GOGAT allele of cv Svevo with increasing GPC - potentially useful in breeding programs. PMID:25099972

Testing flow diversion in animal models: a systematic review.

PubMed

Fahed, Robert; Raymond, Jean; Ducroux, Célina; Gentric, Jean-Christophe; Salazkin, Igor; Ziegler, Daniela; Gevry, Guylaine; Darsaut, Tim E

2016-04-01

Flow diversion (FD) is increasingly used to treat intracranial aneurysms. We sought to systematically review published studies to assess the quality of reporting and summarize the results of FD in various animal models. Databases were searched to retrieve all animal studies on FD from 2000 to 2015. Extracted data included species and aneurysm models, aneurysm and neck dimensions, type of flow diverter, occlusion rates, and complications. Articles were evaluated using a checklist derived from the Animal Research: Reporting of In Vivo Experiments (ARRIVE) guidelines. Forty-two articles reporting the results of FD in nine different aneurysm models were included. The rabbit elastase-induced aneurysm model was the most commonly used, with 3-month occlusion rates of 73.5%, (95%CI [61.9-82.6%]). FD of surgical sidewall aneurysms, constructed in rabbits or canines, resulted in high occlusion rates (100% [65.5-100%]). FD resulted in modest occlusion rates (15.4% [8.9-25.1%]) when tested in six complex canine aneurysm models designed to reproduce more difficult clinical contexts (large necks, bifurcation, or fusiform aneurysms). Adverse events, including branch occlusion, were rarely reported. There were no hemorrhagic complications. Articles complied with 20.8 ± 3.9 of 41 ARRIVE items; only a small number used randomization (3/42 articles [7.1%]) or a control group (13/42 articles [30.9%]). Preclinical studies on FD have shown various results. Occlusion of elastase-induced aneurysms was common after FD. The model is not challenging but standardized in many laboratories. Failures of FD can be reproduced in less standardized but more challenging surgical canine constructions. The quality of reporting could be improved.

Illness Perceptions are Associated with Quality of Life in Patients with Fibrous Dysplasia.

PubMed

Majoor, B C J; Andela, C D; Quispel, C R; Rotman, M; Dijkstra, P D S; Hamdy, N A T; Kaptein, A A; Appelman-Dijkstra, N M

2018-01-01

Fibrous dysplasia (FD) is a rare bone disorder in which normal bone is replaced by fibrous tissue resulting in pain, deformities, pathological fractures or asymptomatic disease. Illness perceptions are patients' cognitions and emotions about their illness and its treatment, which may impact on Quality of Life (QoL). Here, we explore illness perceptions in patients with FD compared to other disorders, identify factors associated with illness perceptions and evaluate their relationship with QoL. Ninety-seven out of 138 eligible patients from the LUMC FD cohort completed the Illness Perception Questionnaire-Revised (IPQ-R) and the Short Form-36 (SF-36). Age, Gender, Skeletal Burden Score (SBS), FGF-23 levels, type of FD and SF-36 scores were analysed for an association with illness perceptions. We observed significant (p < 0.01) differences in patients' illness perceptions between FD subtypes in the domains: identity, timeline acute/chronic and consequences. Patients with craniofacial FD reported to perceive more consequences (p = 0.022). High SBS was associated with perceiving more negative consequences and attributing the cause of FD to psychological factors (p < 0.01), and high FGF-23 levels with attributing more symptoms to the disease and perceiving more consequences (p < 0.01). The IPQ-R domain identity, timeline acute/chronic, timeline cyclical, consequences, emotional representations and treatment control were significantly associated with impairments in QoL. Illness perceptions in patients with FD relate to QoL, differ from those in patients with other disorders, and are associated with disease severity. Identifying and addressing maladaptive illness perceptions may improve quality of life in patients with FD.

The latent structure of the functional dyspepsia symptom complex: a taxometric analysis.

PubMed

Van Oudenhove, L; Jasper, F; Walentynowicz, M; Witthöft, M; Van den Bergh, O; Tack, J

2016-07-01

Rome III introduced a subdivision of functional dyspepsia (FD) into postprandial distress syndrome and epigastric pain syndrome, characterized by early satiation/postprandial fullness, and epigastric pain/burning, respectively. However, evidence on their degree of overlap is mixed. We aimed to investigate the latent structure of FD to test whether distinguishable symptom-based subgroups exist. Consecutive tertiary care Rome II FD patients completed the dyspepsia symptom severity scale. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was used to compare the fit of a single factor model, a correlated three-factor model based on Rome III subgroups and a bifactor model consisting of a general FD factor and orthogonal subgroup factors. Taxometric analyses were subsequently used to investigate the latent structure of FD. Nine hundred and fifty-seven FD patients (71.1% women, age 41 ± 14.8) participated. In CFA, the bifactor model yielded a significantly better fit than the two other models (χ² difference tests both p < 0.001). All symptoms had significant loadings on both the general and the subgroup-specific factors (all p < 0.05). Somatization was associated with the general (r = 0.72, p < 0.01), but not the subgroup-specific factors (all r < 0.13, p > 0.05). Taxometric analyses supported a dimensional structure of FD (all CCFI<0.38). We found a dimensional rather than categorical latent structure of the FD symptom complex in tertiary care. A combination of a general dyspepsia symptom reporting factor, which was associated with somatization, and symptom-specific factors reflecting the Rome III subdivision fitted the data best. This has implications for classification, pathophysiology, and treatment of FD. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Seasonal, Spatial, and Long-term Variability of Fine Mineral Dust in the United States

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hand, J. L.; White, W. H.; Gebhart, K. A.; Hyslop, N. P.; Gill, T. E.; Schichtel, B. A.

2017-12-01

Characterizing the seasonal, spatial, and long-term variability of fine mineral dust (FD) is important to assess its environmental and climate impacts. FD concentrations (mineral particles with aerodynamic diameters less than 2.5 µm) were estimated using ambient, ground-based PM2.5 elemental chemistry data from over 160 remote and rural Interagency Monitoring of Protected Visual Environments (IMPROVE) sites from 2011 through 2015. FD concentrations were highest and contributed over 50% of PM2.5 mass at southwestern sites in spring and across the central and southeastern United States in summer (20-30% of PM2.5). The highest seasonal variability in FD occurred at sites in the Southeast during summer, likely associated with impacts from North African transport, which was also evidenced in the elemental ratios of calcium, iron, and aluminum. Long-term trend analyses (2000-2015) indicated widespread, regional increases in FD concentrations during spring in the West, especially in March in the Southwest. This increase was associated with an early onset of the spring dust season and correlated with the Pacific Decadal Oscillation and the El Niño Southern Oscillation. The Southeast and central United States also experienced increased FD concentrations during summer and fall, respectively. Contributions of FD to PM2.5 mass have increased in regions across the United States during all seasons, in part due to increased FD concentrations but also as a result of reductions in secondary aerosols (e.g., sulfates, nitrates, and organic carbon). Increased levels of FD have important implications for its environmental and climate impacts; mitigating these impacts will require identifying and characterizing source regions and underlying mechanisms for dust episodes.

Fabry disease: Review and experience during newborn screening.

PubMed

Hsu, Ting-Rong; Niu, Dau-Ming

2018-05-01

Fabry disease (FD) is an X-linked lysosomal storage disease and is the result of mutation in the α-Galactosidase A gene; such mutations cause a deficiency in α-Galactosidase A enzyme and an accumulation of glycosphingolipid in tissue. Affected males with classic FD have little or no enzyme activity and have an early onset of symptoms and signs, including acroparesthesias, hypohidrosis, angiokeratomas, gastrointestinal dysfunction and/or a characteristic corneal dystrophy during childhood/adolescence. Males with late-onset FD who have residual enzyme activity develop progressive multi-systemic involvement that leads to renal failure and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, as well as cerebrovascular disease; these events mostly occur during the fourth to seventh decades of life. Heterozygous females can develop vital organ damage that in turn causes severe morbidity and mortality; these symptoms may be as severe as those in affected males. For the treatable disease, this review aims to raise awareness of early recognition and further management of FD based on newborn screening. As newborn screening for FD has been implemented worldwide, it allows the early detection of individuals with Fabry mutations. Based on screening studies, the prevalence of the later-onset type FD is much higher than that of classical type FD. Newborn screening studies have also revealed that patients with FD may develop insidious but ongoing irreversible organ damage. The timing of enzyme replacement therapy, which is able to stabilize the progression of disease, is important in order to prevent irreversible organ damage. Therapies that may become available in the future include pharmacological chaperones and substrate reduction therapy, both of which are still under investigation as ways of improving the health of individuals with FD. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Effect of oven drying and freeze drying on the antioxidant and functional properties of protein hydrolysates derived from freshwater fish (Cirrhinus mrigala) using papain enzyme.

PubMed

Elavarasan, Krishnamoorthy; Shamasundar, Bangalore Aswathnarayan

2016-02-01

Fish protein hydrolysate (FPH) was prepared from fresh water fish Cirrhinus mrigala using papain and dried in oven (OD-FPH) and freeze dryer (FD-FPH). The electron micrographs of FD-FPH samples showed porous structure. The browning intensity of OD-FPH samples was higher than the FD-FPH samples. The DPPH (2, 2 Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) free radical scavenging activity and linoleic acid peroxidation inhibition activity of FPH were not affected by oven drying process. The sequential digestion of FPH with pepsin and pancreatin reduced the antioxidant properties in both OD-FPH and FD-FPH samples. The solubility of proteins in OD-FPH was lower at pH 5 while for that of FD-FPH it was at pH 7 with water as solvent. The surface active properties of FD-FPH samples were higher than OD-FPH samples. The oven drying of fish protein hydrolysates may be advocated considering the properties and cost of production.

A robust method of computing finite difference coefficients based on Vandermonde matrix

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Yijie; Gao, Jinghuai; Peng, Jigen; Han, Weimin

2018-05-01

When the finite difference (FD) method is employed to simulate the wave propagation, high-order FD method is preferred in order to achieve better accuracy. However, if the order of FD scheme is high enough, the coefficient matrix of the formula for calculating finite difference coefficients is close to be singular. In this case, when the FD coefficients are computed by matrix inverse operator of MATLAB, inaccuracy can be produced. In order to overcome this problem, we have suggested an algorithm based on Vandermonde matrix in this paper. After specified mathematical transformation, the coefficient matrix is transformed into a Vandermonde matrix. Then the FD coefficients of high-order FD method can be computed by the algorithm of Vandermonde matrix, which prevents the inverse of the singular matrix. The dispersion analysis and numerical results of a homogeneous elastic model and a geophysical model of oil and gas reservoir demonstrate that the algorithm based on Vandermonde matrix has better accuracy compared with matrix inverse operator of MATLAB.

Identifying Essential Features of Juvenile Psychopathy in the Prediction of Later Antisocial Behavior: Is There an Additive, Synergistic, or Curvilinear Role for Fearless Dominance?

PubMed Central

Vize, Colin E.; Lynam, Donald R.; Lamkin, Joanna; Miller, Joshua D; Pardini, Dustin

2015-01-01

Despite years of research, and inclusion of psychopathy DSM-5, there remains debate over the fundamental components of psychopathy. Although there is agreement about traits related to Agreeableness and Conscientiousness, there is less agreement about traits related to Fearless Dominance (FD) or Boldness. The present paper uses proxies of FD and Self-centered Impulsivity (SCI) to examine the contribution of FD-related traits to the predictive utility of psychopathy in a large, longitudinal, sample of boys to test four possibilities: FD 1. assessed earlier is a risk factor, 2. interacts with other risk-related variables to predict later psychopathy, 3. interacts with SCI interact to predict outcomes, and 4. bears curvilinear relations to outcomes. SCI received excellent support as a measure of psychopathy in adolescence; however, FD was unrelated to criteria in all tests. It is suggested that FD be dropped from psychopathy and that future research focus on Agreeableness and Conscientiousness. PMID:27347448

Analysis of clinical characteristics of dyspeptic symptoms in Shanghai patients.

PubMed

Li, Xiao Bo; Liu, Wen Zhong; Ge, Zhi Zheng; Zhang, Da Rong; Zhao, Yun Jia; Dai, Jun; Xue, Han Bin; Xiao, Shu Dong

2005-01-01

To improve the management of dyspepsia by analyzing the clinical characteristics of dyspeptic symptoms in patients from Shanghai. 782 patients with functional dyspepsia (FD) or organic dyspepsia (OD) completed a questionnaire about dyspepsia. The questionnaire asked participants to score 12 previously validated common upper abdominal symptoms. The clinical characteristics of dyspepsia including severe symptoms; and the relationship between symptoms and meals were then analyzed. Among the 782 dyspeptic patients, 543 cases (69.4%) were classed as FD and 239 (30.6%) OD. The proportion of males was significantly higher in the OD group. There was no difference in average dyspepsia scores between the 2 dyspeptic groups (21.5 vs 20.4, P > 0.05), but the scores of 'stomach' pain and 'stomach' pain before meals were higher in OD patients than in FD patients (2.65 +/- 1.11 vs 2.16 +/- 0.92, 2.26 +/- 1.26 vs 1.79 +/- 0.92, P < 0.05). In 45.2% of the OD patients and 47.7% of the FD patients, respectively, the severity of symptoms was not related to meals. In subgroups of ulcer-like, dysmotility-like and unspecified dyspepsia, the proportion of patients with symptoms not related to meals was 59.6%, 50.9% and 35.2%, respectively. 2.5% (6/239) of OD patients presented with progressive dysphagia, compared with 2.8% (15/543) of FD patients who presented with intermittent dysphagia. Approximately 8.8% (21/239) of OD patients reported dramatic weight loss accompanied with other severe symptoms, compared with 5.9% (32/543) of FD patients who had no other severe symptoms. A shift in symptom subtypes during the follow-up period was found in 13.8% of FD patients. The infection rate of Helicobacter pylori was higher in the OD group than in the FD group (53.1%vs 42.2%, P < 0.01), but no difference was found among the three subgroups of FD patients (P > 0.05). Halitosis was more often found in dyspeptic patients with H. pylori infection (44.9%vs 17.0% in OD, 47.3%vs 25.4% in FD, P < 0.01). When dyspepsia patients present with 'stomach' pain or 'stomach' pain before meals, a diagnosis of OD should be considered. Intermittent dysphagia, weight loss not accompanied with other severe symptoms, and halitosis (more often seen in patients with H. pylori infection) might be regarded as the relatively unique symptoms of dyspepsia in some FD patients. In FD, we found that the severity of dyspepsia symptoms was not related to meals in half of the patients, and symptom subtypes might shift over time, this adds difficulty to the management of FD.

A review of drug therapy for functional dyspepsia.

PubMed

Chen, Sheng Liang

2013-12-01

The management of functional dyspepsia (FD) is a challenge for gastroenterologists in clinical practice. The eradication of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) and the utility of antacids, prokinetics and antidepressants are recommended as treatment choices for FD by consensus. Unlike in Europe and the USA, H. pylori eradication in Asia can lead to a higher proportion of FD patients with symptom relief and a higher symptom response rate to prokinetics. Moreover, response rates to anti-secretory drugs such as proton pump inhibitors deviate considerably from those in the Western world. Digestive enzymes and probiotics have also been reported to be used for the treatment of FD but evidence of their effectiveness is not adequate. Anti-anxiety drugs and antidepressants are reported to have peculiar effects on FD, especially in refractory FD, in which tricyclic antidepressants and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors at small doses are most often recommended. When these drugs are selected to treat FD, clinicians should also consider their roles in treating mental disorders as well as the direct effects of neurotransmitters on gastroenterological disorders. However, their effects need to be further verified by prospective double-blinded randomized clinical trials with a large sample size. Distinguishing among different symptom subtypes has limited significance in guiding the medical choice for FD and individualized drug treatment should be recommended in its management. © 2013 Chinese Medical Association Shanghai Branch, Chinese Society of Gastroenterology, Renji Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine and Wiley Publishing Asia Pty Ltd.

Folliculitis decalvans: a multicentre review of 82 patients.

PubMed

Vañó-Galván, S; Molina-Ruiz, A M; Fernández-Crehuet, P; Rodrigues-Barata, A R; Arias-Santiago, S; Serrano-Falcón, C; Martorell-Calatayud, A; Barco, D; Pérez, B; Serrano, S; Requena, L; Grimalt, R; Paoli, J; Jaén, P; Camacho, F M

2015-09-01

Folliculitis decalvans (FD) is a rare neutrophilic scarring alopecia that represents a therapeutic challenge for dermatologists. To describe the epidemiology, comorbidities, clinical presentation, diagnostic findings and therapeutic options in a large series of patients with FD. This retrospective multicentre review includes patients diagnosed with FD based on clinical and histopathologic findings. The clinical severity was determined by the maximum diameter of the largest alopecic patch (slight: <2 cm, moderate: 2-4.99 cm, severe: 5 cm or more). Response to therapy was assessed as improvement, worsening or stabilization depending on the clinical symptoms (pruritus and trichodynia), inflammatory signs (erythema, pustules and crusts) and the extension of the alopecic patch. Overall, 82 patients (52 males and 30 females) with a mean age of 35 years were included. No significant comorbidities were present. A family history was present in three males. Severe FD was observed in 17 patients (21%). The independent factors associated with severe FD after multivariate analysis were: onset of FD before 25 years of age and presence of pustules. Oral antibiotics (tetracyclines and the combination of clindamycin and rifampicin) improved 90% and 100% of the patients, with a mean duration of response of 4.6 and 7.2 months respectively. The onset of FD before 25 years of age and the presence of pustules within the alopecic patch were associated with severe FD. Tetracyclines and the combination of clindamycin and rifampicin were the most useful treatments. © 2015 European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology.

[Effects of fermented cattle dung on the growth and development of Tenebrio molitor larvae].

PubMed

Zeng, Xiang-Wei; Wang, Xia; Guo, Li-Yue; Zhan, Li-Jie; Bo, Wen-Jing; Li, Zhan; Wu, Guang-Lei; Jiang, Gao-Ming

2012-07-01

In order to make use of and industrialize the animal dung from large cattle farms, this paper explored the feasibility of using Tenebrio molitor to digest and utilize cattle dung. Cattle dung was mixed with the conventional feed (65% wheat bran, 30% corn flour, and 5% bean pulp) of T. molitor in definite proportions, and fermented with effective microorganisms (EM). The fermented products containing 60% and 80% of cattle dung (FD1 and FD2, respectively) were selected to feed T. molitor larvae, and the effects of the fermented products on the growth curve, death rate, pupation rate, and antioxidant system of the larvae were compared. Compared with CK (conventional deed), the FD1 made the developmental duration of the larvae prolonged by 10 days and the larvae's death rate upraised somewhat, but made the single larva's total food intake, average body mass, crude fat content, and ratio of unsaturated to saturated fat acids increased by 49%, 28%, 26%, and 32%, respectively (P < 0.05), and the activity of larvae's antioxidant system improved significantly, showing a remarkable adaptability of the larvae to FD1. Unlike FD1, FD2 displayed definite disadvantages in most test growth indicators, as compared with CK, indicating that T. molitor larvae had weak adaptability to FD2. Our findings suggested that using FD1 to feed the 3rd instar of T. molitor larvae would have good practical prospects in industrializing cattle dung.

Analysis of Soft Error Rates in 65- and 28-nm FD-SOI Processes Depending on BOX Region Thickness and Body Bias by Monte-Carlo Based Simulations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Kuiyuan; Umehara, Shigehiro; Yamaguchi, Junki; Furuta, Jun; Kobayashi, Kazutoshi

2016-08-01

This paper analyzes how body bias and BOX region thickness affect soft error rates in 65-nm SOTB (Silicon on Thin BOX) and 28-nm UTBB (Ultra Thin Body and BOX) FD-SOI processes. Soft errors are induced by alpha-particle and neutron irradiation and the results are then analyzed by Monte Carlo based simulation using PHITS-TCAD. The alpha-particle-induced single event upset (SEU) cross-section and neutron-induced soft error rate (SER) obtained by simulation are consistent with measurement results. We clarify that SERs decreased in response to an increase in the BOX thickness for SOTB while SERs in UTBB are independent of BOX thickness. We also discover SOTB develops a higher tolerance to soft errors when reverse body bias is applied while UTBB become more susceptible.

Cation displacements and the structures of the superconducting pyrochlore osmates AOs2O6 ( A=K , Rb, and Cs)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Galati, Rosa; Simon, Charles; Henry, Paul F.; Weller, Mark T.

2008-03-01

Variable temperature, 2K

Gain monitoring of telescope array photomultiplier cameras for the first 4 years of operation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shin, B. K.; Tokuno, H.; Tsunesada, Y.; Abu-Zayyad, T.; Aida, R.; Allen, M.; Anderson, R.; Azuma, R.; Barcikowski, E.; Belz, J. W.; Bergman, D. R.; Blake, S. A.; Cady, R.; Cheon, B. G.; Chiba, J.; Chikawa, M.; Cho, E. J.; Cho, W. R.; Fujii, H.; Fujii, T.; Fukuda, T.; Fukushima, M.; Hanlon, W.; Hayashi, K.; Hayashi, Y.; Hayashida, N.; Hibino, K.; Hiyama, K.; Honda, K.; Iguchi, T.; Ikeda, D.; Ikuta, K.; Inoue, N.; Ishii, T.; Ishimori, R.; Ivanov, D.; Iwamoto, S.; Jui, C. C. H.; Kadota, K.; Kakimoto, F.; Kalashev, O.; Kanbe, T.; Kasahara, K.; Kawai, H.; Kawakami, S.; Kawana, S.; Kido, E.; Kim, H. B.; Kim, H. K.; Kim, J. H.; Kim, J. H.; Kitamoto, K.; Kitamura, S.; Kitamura, Y.; Kobayashi, K.; Kobayashi, Y.; Kondo, Y.; Kuramoto, K.; Kuzmin, V.; Kwon, Y. J.; Lim, S. I.; Machida, S.; Martens, K.; Martineau, J.; Matsuda, T.; Matsuura, T.; Matsuyama, T.; Matthews, J. N.; Myers, I.; Minamino, M.; Miyata, K.; Murano, Y.; Nagasawa, K.; Nagataki, S.; Nakamura, T.; Nam, S. W.; Nonaka, T.; Ogio, S.; Ohnishi, M.; Ohoka, H.; Oki, K.; Oku, D.; Okuda, T.; Oshima, A.; Ozawa, S.; Park, I. H.; Pshirkov, M. S.; Rodriguez, D. C.; Roh, S. Y.; Rubtsov, G.; Ryu, D.; Sagawa, H.; Sakurai, N.; Sampson, A. L.; Scott, L. M.; Shah, P. D.; Shibata, F.; Shibata, T.; Shimodaira, H.; Shin, J. I.; Shirahama, T.; Smith, J. D.; Sokolsky, P.; Sonley, T. J.; Springer, R. W.; Stokes, B. T.; Stratton, S. R.; Stroman, T.; Suzuki, S.; Takahashi, Y.; Takeda, M.; Taketa, A.; Takita, M.; Tameda, Y.; Tanaka, H.; Tanaka, K.; Tanaka, M.; Thomas, S. B.; Thomson, G. B.; Tinyakov, P.; Tkachev, I.; Tomida, T.; Troitsky, S.; Tsutsumi, K.; Tsuyuguchi, Y.; Uchihori, Y.; Udo, S.; Ukai, H.; Vasiloff, G.; Wada, Y.; Wong, T.; Wood, M.; Yamakawa, Y.; Yamane, R.; Yamaoka, H.; Yamazaki, K.; Yang, J.; Yoneda, Y.; Yoshida, S.; Yoshii, H.; Zhou, X.; Zollinger, R.; Zundel, Z.

2014-12-01

The stability of the gain of the photomultiplier (PMT) camera for the Fluorescence Detector (FD) of the Telescope Array experiment was monitored using an 241Am loaded scintillator pulsers (YAP) and a diffused xenon flasher (TXF) for a selected set of 35 PMT-readout channels. From the monitoring of YAP pulses over four years of FD operation, we found slow monotonic drifts of PMT gains at a rate of -1.7 +1.7%/year. An average of the PMT gains over the 35 channels stayed nearly constant with a rate of change measured at -0.01±0.31(stat)±0.21(sys)%/year. No systematic decrease of the PMT gain caused by the night sky background was observed. Monitoring by the TXF also tracked the PMT gain drift of the YAP at 0.88±0.14(stat)%/year.

Identification and characterization of volatile components causing the characteristic flavor in miso (Japanese fermented soybean paste) and heat-processed miso products.

PubMed

Kumazawa, Kenji; Kaneko, Shu; Nishimura, Osamu

2013-12-11

The aroma concentrates of two types of raw miso (traditional Japanese fermented soybean paste) were prepared by combining solid phase extraction (SPE) and solvent-assisted flavor evaporation (SAFE) techniques. The aroma extract dilution analysis (AEDA) applied to the volatile fraction revealed 39 odor-active peaks with FD factors between 4(1) and 4(8). Among the perceived odorants, 32 odorants were identified or tentatively identified from the 39 odor-active peaks, and the newly identified odorants for the miso were half of them. Furthermore, by comparison of the FD factors between the raw miso and heat-processed miso, it was found that one increasing odorant (methional) and three decreasing odorants (1-octen-3-one, (Z)-1,5-octadien-3-one, and trans-4,5-epoxy-(E)-2-decenal) contributed to the flavor change during the heat processing. This finding suggested that the flavor change in the raw miso during heat processing is attributed to relatively few odorant changes. In addition, it was assumed that the amino acids included in the miso have a significant influence on the remarkable disappearance of the three decreasing odorants.

21 CFR 74.101 - FD&C Blue No. 1.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES GENERAL LISTING OF COLOR ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Foods § 74.101 FD&C Blue No. 1. (a) Identity. (1) The color additive FD&C...] (o-sulfobenzyl) ammonium hydroxide inner salt. (2) Color additive mixtures for food use (including...

21 CFR 74.101 - FD&C Blue No. 1.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES GENERAL LISTING OF COLOR ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Foods § 74.101 FD&C Blue No. 1. (a) Identity. (1) The color additive FD&C...] (o-sulfobenzyl) ammonium hydroxide inner salt. (2) Color additive mixtures for food use (including...

21 CFR 74.101 - FD&C Blue No. 1.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES GENERAL LISTING OF COLOR ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Foods § 74.101 FD&C Blue No. 1. (a) Identity. (1) The color additive FD&C...] (o-sulfobenzyl) ammonium hydroxide inner salt. (2) Color additive mixtures for food use (including...

21 CFR 74.1203 - FD&C Green No. 3.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... manufacturing practice. (c) Labeling. The label of the color additive and any mixtures prepared therefrom... ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Drugs § 74.1203 FD&C Green No. 3. (a) Identity and specifications. (1) The color additive FD&C Green No. 3 shall conform in identity and specifications to the requirements...

21 CFR 74.2706 - FD&C Yellow No. 6.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... COLOR ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Cosmetics § 74.2706 FD&C Yellow No. 6. (a) Identity and specifications. The color additive FD&C Yellow No. 6 shall conform in identity and specifications to the... coloring cosmetics generally in amounts consistent with current good manufacturing practice. (c) Labeling...

76 FR 33809 - The New Brunswick Railway Company; Notices of Exemptions

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-06-09

... 35518; Docket No. FD 35519] The New Brunswick Railway Company; Notices of Exemptions AGENCY: Surface Transportation Board, DOT. ACTION: Notices of exemptions. [Docket No. FD 35520] The New Brunswick Railway Company--Continuance in Control Exemption--Maine Northern Railway Company [Docket No. FD 35518] Maine Northern Railway...

Faculty Development for Educators: A Realist Evaluation

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sorinola, Olanrewaju O.; Thistlethwaite, Jill; Davies, David; Peile, Ed

2015-01-01

The effectiveness of faculty development (FD) activities for educators in UK medical schools remains underexplored. This study used a realist approach to evaluate FD and to test the hypothesis that motivation, engagement and perception are key mechanisms of effective FD activities. The authors observed and interviewed 33 course participants at one…

21 CFR 74.2706 - FD&C Yellow No. 6.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... COLOR ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Cosmetics § 74.2706 FD&C Yellow No. 6. (a) Identity and specifications. The color additive FD&C Yellow No. 6 shall conform in identity and specifications to the... coloring cosmetics generally in amounts consistent with current good manufacturing practice. (c) Labeling...

21 CFR 74.1203 - FD&C Green No. 3.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... manufacturing practice. (c) Labeling. The label of the color additive and any mixtures prepared therefrom... ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Drugs § 74.1203 FD&C Green No. 3. (a) Identity and specifications. (1) The color additive FD&C Green No. 3 shall conform in identity and specifications to the requirements...

21 CFR 74.2706 - FD&C Yellow No. 6.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... COLOR ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Cosmetics § 74.2706 FD&C Yellow No. 6. (a) Identity and specifications. The color additive FD&C Yellow No. 6 shall conform in identity and specifications to the... coloring cosmetics generally in amounts consistent with current good manufacturing practice. (c) Labeling...

21 CFR 74.2706 - FD&C Yellow No. 6.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... COLOR ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Cosmetics § 74.2706 FD&C Yellow No. 6. (a) Identity and specifications. The color additive FD&C Yellow No. 6 shall conform in identity and specifications to the... coloring cosmetics generally in amounts consistent with current good manufacturing practice. (c) Labeling...

21 CFR 74.1203 - FD&C Green No. 3.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... manufacturing practice. (c) Labeling. The label of the color additive and any mixtures prepared therefrom... ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Drugs § 74.1203 FD&C Green No. 3. (a) Identity and specifications. (1) The color additive FD&C Green No. 3 shall conform in identity and specifications to the requirements...

21 CFR 74.1203 - FD&C Green No. 3.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... manufacturing practice. (c) Labeling. The label of the color additive and any mixtures prepared therefrom... ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Drugs § 74.1203 FD&C Green No. 3. (a) Identity and specifications. (1) The color additive FD&C Green No. 3 shall conform in identity and specifications to the requirements...

Accurate Modeling of Ionospheric Electromagnetic Fields Generated by a Low-Altitude VLF Transmitter

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-08-31

latitude) for 3 different grid spacings. 14 8. Low-altitude fields produced by a 10-kHz source computed using the FD and TD codes. The agreement is...excellent, validating the new FD code. 16 9. High-altitude fields produced by a 10-kHz source computed using the FD and TD codes. The agreement is...again excellent. 17 10. Low-altitude fields produced by a 20-k.Hz source computed using the FD and TD codes. 17 11. High-altitude fields produced

Dental Perspectives in Fibrous Dysplasia and McCune-Albright Syndrome

PubMed Central

Akintoye, Sunday O.; Boyce, Alison M.; Collins, Michael T.

2013-01-01

McCune-Albright syndrome (MAS) is a rare multisystem disorder characterized by the triad of polyostotic fibrous dysplasia (PFD), endocrine disorders and café-au-lait skin pigmentation. Ninety percent of MAS patients have FD lesions in the craniofacial area, resulting in significant orofacial deformity, dental disorders, bone pain and compromised oral health. Maxillo-mandibular FD is also associated with dental developmental disorders, malocclusion, and high caries index. There is limited data on the outcomes of dental treatments in maxillo-mandibular FD/MAS patients, because clinicians and researchers have limited access to patients, and there are concerns that dental surgery may activate quiescent jaw FD lesions to grow aggressively. This report highlights current perspectives on dental management issues associated with maxillo-mandibular FD within the context of MAS. PMID:23953425

FGF-23 in fibrous dysplasia of bone and its relationship to renal phosphate wasting

PubMed Central

Riminucci, Mara; Collins, Michael T.; Fedarko, Neal S.; Cherman, Natasha; Corsi, Alessandro; White, Kenneth E.; Waguespack, Steven; Gupta, Anurag; Hannon, Tamara; Econs, Michael J.; Bianco, Paolo; Gehron Robey, Pamela

2003-01-01

FGF-23, a novel member of the FGF family, is the product of the gene mutated in autosomal dominant hypophosphatemic rickets (ADHR). FGF-23 has been proposed as a circulating factor causing renal phosphate wasting not only in ADHR (as a result of inadequate degradation), but also in tumor-induced osteomalacia (as a result of excess synthesis by tumor cells). Renal phosphate wasting occurs in approximately 50% of patients with McCune-Albright syndrome (MAS) and fibrous dysplasia of bone (FD), which result from postzygotic mutations of the GNAS1 gene. We found that FGF-23 is produced by normal and FD osteoprogenitors and bone-forming cells in vivo and in vitro. In situ hybridization analysis of FGF-23 mRNA expression identified “fibrous” cells, osteogenic cells, and cells associated with microvascular walls as specific cellular sources of FGF-23 in FD. Serum levels of FGF-23 were increased in FD/MAS patients compared with normal age-matched controls and significantly higher in FD/MAS patients with renal phosphate wasting compared with those without, and correlated with disease burden bone turnover markers commonly used to assess disease activity. Production of FGF-23 by FD tissue may play an important role in the renal phosphate–wasting syndrome associated with FD/MAS. PMID:12952917

Kinetin improves IKBKAP mRNA splicing in patients with familial dysautonomia

PubMed Central

Axelrod, Felicia B.; Liebes, Leonard; Gold-von Simson, Gabrielle; Mendoza, Sandra; Mull, James; Leyne, Maire; Norcliffe-Kaufmann, Lucy; Kaufmann, Horacio; Slaugenhaupt, Susan A.

2011-01-01

Familial dysautonomia (FD) is caused by an intronic splice mutation in the IKBKAP gene that leads to partial skipping of exon 20 and tissue-specific reduction in I-κ-B kinase complex associated protein/ elongation protein 1 (IKAP/ELP-1) expression. Kinetin (6-furfurylaminopurine) has been shown to improve splicing and increase wild-type IKBKAP mRNA and IKAP protein expression in FD cell lines and carriers. To determine if oral kinetin treatment could alter mRNA splicing in FD subjects and was tolerable, we administered kinetin to eight FD individuals homozygous for the splice mutation. Subjects received 23.5 mg/Kg/day for 28 days. An increase in wild-type IKBKAP mRNA expression in leukocytes was noted after eight days in six of eight individuals; after 28 days the mean increase as compared to baseline was significant (p=0.002). We have demonstrated that kinetin is tolerable in this medically fragile population. Not only did kinetin produce the desired effect on splicing in FD patients, but also that effect appears to improve with time despite lack of dose change. This is the first report of a drug that produces in vivo mRNA splicing changes in individuals with FD and supports future long-term trials to determine if kinetin will prove therapeutic in FD patients. PMID:21775922

Discriminant Value of Rome III Questionnaire in Dyspeptic Patients

PubMed Central

Abid, Shahab; Siddiqui, Shaheryar; Jafri, Wasim

2011-01-01

Background/Aim: Rome III criteria has modified the description of functional dyspepsia (FD) and divided this into subgroups. However, the discriminative value of Rome III questionnaire-based diagnosis of FD is yet to be determined. Objectives: To evaluate the Rome III questionnaire for the diagnosis of FD and whether it can discriminate between postprandial distress syndrome (PDS) and epigastric pain syndrome (EPS) in patients with dyspeptic symptoms. Patients and Methods: Consecutive patients, who were not on proton pump inhibitors (PPI), were asked to participate. Patients who have previously established acid peptic disease or predominantly reflux symptoms or having alarm symptoms such as weight loss and hematemesis were excluded. Rome III questionnaire for FD was used to identify the patients as having FD and divide into its subgroups; PDS or EPS. Gastro-duodenal biopsies, liver function tests and ultrasound were done to establish the diagnosis of FD. Results: Out of 272 patients with upper gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms without alarm features, who were enrolled in the study, a total of 191 (70%) fulfilled the criteria of FD based upon Rome III questionnaire. EPS subgroup was found in 109 (57%), PDS in 17 (9%) patients, overlap between EPS and PDS was present in 56 (29%) patients. Nine (5%) patients remained indeterminate. Diagnosis of FD was established in 136/191 (71%) patients only. Gastritis was present in 116 patients (85%), Duodenitis in 44 (32%) and Helicobacter pylori infection in 70 (51%) patients. Among 55 patients (29%) who had organic diseases, EPS was seen in 35 (64%), PDS in 5 (9%) and overlap in 15 (27%) patients. Underlying organic causes were gastric or duodenal ulcers in 14 patients, Barrett esophagus in five, chronic liver disease in seven, gall stones in five, Giardiasis and celiac disease in three each. Gastric carcinoma, Crohns disease and gastric polyps were seen in one patient each. Conclusion: This study indicates that 30% of patients who fulfilled the Rome III criteria for FD actually had organic disease. Almost one-third of patients with functioanl dyspepsia did not qualify for one of the two subgroups of FD of Rome III. There is also a need to further define the Rome III-based subgroups of FD for research purpose. PMID:21372351

The combi-targeting concept: a novel 3,3-disubstituted nitrosourea with EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitory properties.

PubMed

Qiu, Qiyu; Dudouit, Fabienne; Matheson, Stephanie L; Brahimi, Fouad; Banerjee, Ranjita; McNamee, James P; Jean-Claude, Bertrand J

2003-01-01

To study the dual mechanism of action of FD137, a 3,3-disubstituted nitrosourea designed to block signaling mediated by the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) on its own and to be hydrolyzed to an inhibitor of EGFR plus a DNA-damaging species. HPLC was used to determine the half-life (t(1/2)) of FD137 and to characterize its derived metabolite FD110. The dual mechanisms of DNA damaging and EGFR tyrosine kinase (TK) targeting were ascertained by the comet assay for DNA damage and by inmunodetection of phosphotyrosine in an ELISA and a whole-cell assay for EGFR-mediated signaling. The antiproliferative effects of the different drugs and their combinations were determined by the sulforhodamine B (SRB) assay. In contrast to BCNU, FD137 significantly blocked EGF-induced EGFR autophosphorylation (IC(50) 4 micro M) in the human solid tumor cell line A431. DNA damage induced by FD137 could only be observed after 24 h exposure, but the level of DNA damage remained 3.6-fold lower than that induced by BCNU. This difference was rationalized by the 160-fold greater stability of FD137 when compared with BCNU in serum-containing medium. Further, degradation of FD137 was accompanied by the slow release of FD110, an extremely potent inhibitor of EGFR TK [IC(50) (EGFR autophosphorylation) <0.3 micro M]. The complex properties of FD137 translated into a 55-fold greater antiproliferative activity than BCNU against the EGFR-overexpressing A431 cells that coexpresses the O(6)-alkylguanine transferase (AGT). Depletion of AGT in these cells by the use of O(6)-benzylguanine (O(6)-BG) enhanced their sensitivity to BCNU by 8-fold, but only by 3-fold to FD137. The results overall suggest that the superior antiproliferative activity of FD137 when compared with BCNU may be associated with its ability to behave as a combination of many species with different mechanisms of action. However, the enhancement of its potency by O(6)-BG suggests that its antiproliferative effect was at least partially mitigated by AGT and perhaps it may be largely dominated by its signal transduction inhibitory component.

Exploiting diurnal variations to evaluate the ISCCP-FD flux calculations and radiative-flux-analysis-processed surface observations from BSRN, ARM, and SURFRAD

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

Zhang, Yuanchong; Long, Charles N.; Rossow, William B.

2010-01-01

Based on monthly-3-hourly and 3-hourly mean surface radiative fluxes and their associated meteorological parameters for 2004 from the International Satellite Cloud Climatology Project-FD (ISCCP-FD) and the Radiative Flux Analysis method-Produced Surface Observations (RFA-PSO) for 15 high-quality-controlled surface stations, operated by the Baseline Surface Radiation Network (BSRN), the Atmospheric Radiation Measurement (ARM) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Surface Radiation budget network (SURFRAD), this work, goes beyond the previous validation for FD against surface observation by introducing the Meteorological Similarity Comparison Method (MSCM) to make a more precise, mutual evaluation of both FD and PSO products. The comparison results inmore » substantial uncertainty reduction and provides reasonable physical explanations for the flux differences. This approach compares fluxes for cases where the atmospheric and surface physical properties (specifically, the input parameters for radiative transfer model) are as close as possible to the values determined at the observational sites by matching the RFA-produced cloud fraction (CF) and/or optical thickness (Tau), etc., or alternatively, by directly changing the model input variables for FD to match PSO values, and using such-produced matched sub-datasets to make more accurate comparisons based on more similar meteorological environments between FD and PSO. The crucial part is the availability of flux-associated meteorological parameters from RFA-PSO, which was only recently made available that makes this work possible. For surface downwelling shortwave(SW) flux (SWdn) and its two components, diffuse (Dif) and direct (Dir), uncertainty for monthly mean is 15, 15 and 17 W/m 2, respectively, smaller than the separately estimated uncertainty values from both FD and PSO. When applying MSCM by reducing their CF difference, the differences can be reduced by a factor of 2. The strength of MSCM is particularly shown in the comparisons of diurnal variations. For clear sky, reducing the FD values of aerosol optical depth (AOD) by 50% to approximately match the PSO values brings all downward SW flux components into substantial agreement. For cloudy scenes, when both CF and Tau are matched to within 0.1 – 0.25 and ~10, respectively, the majority of the SW flux components have nearly-perfect agreement between FD and PSO. The best restriction differences are not zero indicates the influence of other parameters that are not accounted for yet. For longwave (LW) fluxes, general evaluation also confirms uncertainty values for FD and PSO less than separately estimated. When applying MSCM to CF and surface air temperature, the agreement is substantially improved. For downwelling LW diurnal variation comparison, FD shows good agreement with PSO for both RFA-defined or true clear sky but overestimates the amplitude for cloudy sky by 3-7 W/m 2, which may be caused by different sensitivities to cirrus clouds. For upwelling LW diurnal cycle, the situation is reversed; FD now underestimates the diurnal amplitude for all and clear sky but generally agrees for overcast (CF > 0.7). The combined effect of downwelling and upwelling LW fluxes results in FD's underestimates of the diurnal variation of the net-LW-loss for all the scenes by up to 10 W/m 2, although the daily mean net loss is more accurate. Therefore, in terms of amplitude and phase, both FD and PSO seem to have caught correct diurnal variations.« less

Forced expirations and maximum expiratory flow-volume curves during sustained microgravity on SLS-1.

PubMed

Elliott, A R; Prisk, G K; Guy, H J; Kosonen, J M; West, J B

1996-07-01

Gravity is known to influence the mechanical behavior of the lung and chest wall. However, the effect of sustained microgravity (microG) on forced expirations has not previously been reported. Tests were carried out by four subjects in both the standing and supine postures during each of seven preflight and four postflight data-collection sessions and four times during the 9 days of microG exposure on Spacelab Life Sciences-1. Compared with preflight standing values, peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) was significantly reduced by 12.5% on flight day 2 (FD2), 11.6% on FD4, and 5.0% on FD5 but returned to standing values by FD9. The supine posture caused a 9% reduction in PEFR. Forced vital capacity and forced expired volume in 1 s were slightly reduced (approximately 3-4%) on FD2 but returned to preflight standing values on FD4 and FD5, and by FD9 both values were slightly but significantly greater than standing values. Forced vital capacity and forced expiratory volume in 1 s were both reduced in the supine posture (approximately 8-10%). Forced expiratory flows at 50% and between 25 and 75% of vital capacity did not change during microG but were reduced in the supine posture. Analysis of the maximum expiratory flow-volume curve showed that microG caused no consistent change in the curve configuration when individual in-flight days were compared with preflight standing curves, although two subjects did show a slight reduction in flows at low lung volumes from FD2 to FD9. The interpretation of the lack of change in curve configuration must be made cautiously because the lung volumes varied from day to day in flight. Therefore, the flows at absolute lung volumes in microG and preflight standing are not being compared. The supine curves showed a subtle but consistent reduction in flows at low lung volumes. The mechanism responsible for the reduction in PEFR is not clear. It could be due to a lack of physical stabilization when performing the maneuver in the absence of gravity or a transient reduction in respiratory muscle strength.

Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency is not a cause of abdominal complaints in patients with Fabry disease.

PubMed

Vujasinovic, Miroslav; Tepes, Bojan; Vujkovac, Bojan; Cokan Vujkovac, Andreja; Tretjak, Martin; Korat, Vesna

2015-12-01

Fabry disease (FD), also called Anderson-Fabry disease, is the second most prevalent lysosomal storage disorder after Gaucher disease. Gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms are very common among male and female individuals, although the age of onset is later among female patients. To our best knowledge, exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) has not yet been studied in patients with FD as a possible cause of abdominal complaints. The aim of our study was to determine whether exocrine pancreatic function is impaired in patients with FD. We analysed medical records of patients with FD treated in Fabry Center in Slovenj Gradec General Hospital (Slovenian referral centre for FD) by the evaluation of the following features: gender, age, first symptoms before confirmation of FD diagnosis, time interval between first symptoms and diagnosis, therapy and current abdominal complaints. Diagnosis of FD was established by genetic analysis and confirmation of mutation in the α-galactosidase A gene. Faecal elastase-1 (FE-1) measurements were performed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and the commercial kit ScheBo Biotech, Giessen, Germany. There were 28 adult patients (Slovene, Caucasians) with known FD included in the study: 12 male and 16 female; mean age, 45.6 ± 14.3 (range, 19-75) years. Seventeen patients (63%) were on enzyme replacement therapy (ERT). In seven (25.9%) patients, abdominal complaints (diarrhoea, bloating and feeling of satiety) were present before introduction of ERT. In three out of these seven patients, abdominal complaints resolved after ERT, and in four patients, they were still occasionally present. FE-1 was normal in all patients (547.9 ± 104.5 µg/g). Our results show that exocrine pancreatic function is normal in all patients with FD and is most likely not a cause of abdominal complaints in this group of patients. Nevertheless, EPI still could not be completely excluded as an aetiology factor for GI problems in patients with FD because all our patients with GI problems were treated with ERT. Therefore, a potential effect of ERT on EPI cannot be excluded. Further studies are necessary to determine the aetiology, especially in the group of naïve male patients.

Effects of a Herbal Medicine, Yukgunja-Tang, on Functional Dyspepsia Patients Classified by 3-Dimensional Facial Measurement: A Study Protocol for Placebo-Controlled, Double-Blind, Randomized Trial.

PubMed

Kim, Juyeon; Park, Jae-Woo; Ko, Seok-Jae; Jeon, Soo-Hyung; Kim, Jong-Won; Yeo, Inkwon; Kim, Jinsung

2017-01-01

Introduction . Functional dyspepsia (FD), a common upper gastrointestinal disease, is difficult to manage because of the limitations of current conventional treatments. Yukgunja-tang (YGJT) is widely used to treat FD in clinical practice in Korea, Japan, and China. However, YGJT significantly improves few symptoms of FD. In Korean medicine, FD is a well-known functional gastric disease that shows difference in the effect of herbal medicine depending on constitution or type of Korean medicine diagnosis. This study aims to investigate the efficacy of YGJT on FD patients classified by 3-dimensional facial measurement using a 3-dimensional facial shape diagnostic system (3-FSDS). Methods . A placebo-controlled, double-blind, randomized, two-center trial will be performed to evaluate the efficacy of YGJT on FD patients. Eligible subjects will be initially classified as two types by 3-dimensional facial measurement using the 3-FSDS. Ninety-six subjects (48 subjects per each type) will be enrolled. These subjects will be randomly allocated into treatment or control groups in a 2 : 1 ratio. YGJT or placebo will be administered to each group during the 8-week treatment period. The primary outcome is total dyspepsia symptom scale, and the secondary outcomes include single dyspepsia symptom scale, proportion of responders with adequate symptom relief, visual analog scale, Nepean dyspepsia index-Korean version, functional dyspepsia-related quality of life, and spleen qi deficiency questionnaire. Discussion . This is the first randomized controlled trial to assess the efficacy of the YGJT on FD patients classified by 3-dimensional facial measurement. We will compare the treatment effect of the YGJT on FD patients classified as two types using the 3-FSDS. The results of this trial will help the FD patients improve the symptoms and quality of life effectively and provide objective evidence for prescribing the YGJT to FD patients in clinical practice. Trial Registration . This trial is registered with Clinical Research Information Service Identifier: KCT0001920, 15 May, 2016.

Effects of feed deprivation on behavioral reactivity and physiological status in Holstein cattle.

PubMed

Bourguet, C; Deiss, V; Boissy, A; Andanson, S; Terlouw, E M C

2011-10-01

The present study evaluated whether feed deprivation can increase reactivity to stressful events, such as those that can occur at slaughter. Therefore, effects of 30 h of feed deprivation on behavior, including reactions to psychological stressors, and physiological status in cattle were determined. Sixteen Holstein cows (Exp. 1) and 32 Holstein heifers (Exp. 2) were either fed (FE) or 30-h feed deprived (FD). Throughout the first day of feed deprivation and during evening feed distribution to control animals, FD heifers and cows were more active than controls (P < 0.05). In Exp. 1, during a feeding test, in response to a sudden air blast arising from the bucket from which the cow was feeding, FD cows showed a longer latency to return to feed (P = 0.0002), spent less time in the bucket air blast zone (P = 0.008) and less time motionless (P = 0.03), and tended to withdraw over a longer distance (P = 0.07) than FE cows. In Exp. 2, during a reactivity test, FD heifers spent more (P = 0.0001) time motionless in response to social isolation than FE heifers. In Exp. 2, one-half of the FE and FD heifers were subjected to an additional physical and psychological stressor just before the reactivity test by driving them for 5 min through a labyrinth. Within heifers subjected to the additional stressor, FD heifers were less accepting of being detained (P = 0.05) and stroked (P = 0.003) by a familiar stockperson in a corner of the test arena. Compared with FE animals, FD heifers and FD cows had greater plasma cortisol concentrations (P < 0.05). Feed-deprived cows also had reduced β-hydroxybutyrate concentrations (P = 0.02) compared with FE cows. Thus, in cattle, FD influenced some of the classical indicators of energy metabolism and exacerbated reactivity to sudden events. In addition, when additional stressors were applied, FD cattle were more reluctant to accept handling. Results indicate that a multifactorial origin of stressors during the slaughter period may synergistically increase psychological stress of cattle.

Genetic, metabolite and developmental determinism of fruit friction discolouration in pear.

PubMed

Saeed, Munazza; Brewer, Lester; Johnston, Jason; McGhie, Tony K; Gardiner, Susan E; Heyes, Julian A; Chagné, David

2014-09-16

The unattractive appearance of the surface of pear fruit caused by the postharvest disorder friction discolouration (FD) is responsible for significant consumer dissatisfaction in markets, leading to lower returns to growers. Developing an understanding of the genetic control of FD is essential to enable the full application of genomics-informed breeding for the development of new pear cultivars. Biochemical constituents [phenolic compounds and ascorbic acid (AsA)], polyphenol oxidase (PPO) activity, as well as skin anatomy, have been proposed to play important roles in FD susceptibility in studies on a limited number of cultivars. However, to date there has been no investigation on the biochemical and genetic control of FD, employing segregating populations. In this study, we used 250 seedlings from two segregating populations (POP369 and POP356) derived from interspecific crosses between Asian (Pyrus pyrifolia Nakai and P. bretschneideri Rehd.) and European (P. communis) pears to identify genetic factors associated with susceptibility to FD. Single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP)-based linkage maps suitable for QTL analysis were developed for the parents of both populations. The maps for population POP369 comprised 174 and 265 SNP markers for the male and female parent, respectively, while POP356 maps comprised 353 and 398 SNP markers for the male and female parent, respectively. Phenotypic data for 22 variables were measured over two successive years (2011 and 2012) for POP369 and one year (2011) only for POP356. A total of 221 QTLs were identified that were linked to 22 phenotyped variables, including QTLs associated with FD for both populations that were stable over the successive years. In addition, clear evidence of the influence of developmental factors (fruit maturity) on FD and other variables was also recorded. The QTLs associated with fruit firmness, PPO activity, AsA concentration and concentration of polyphenol compounds as well as FD are the first reported for pear. We conclude that the postharvest disorder FD is controlled by multiple small effect QTLs and that it will be very challenging to apply marker-assisted selection based on these QTLs. However, genomic selection could be employed to select elite genotypes with lower or no susceptibility to FD early in the breeding cycle.

Are Locked Facets a Contraindication for Extreme Lateral Interbody Fusion?

PubMed

Navarro-Ramirez, Rodrigo; Lang, Gernot; Moriguchi, Yu; Elowitz, Eric; Corredor, Jose Alfredo; Avila, Mauricio J; Gotfryd, Alberto; Alimi, Marjan; Gandevia, Lena; Härtl, Roger

2017-04-01

Extreme lateral interbody fusion (ELIF) has gained popularity as a minimally invasive treatment allowing for indirect decompression of neural elements. However, evidence regarding the influence of facet degeneration (FD) and facet tropism (FT) toward indirect decompression is lacking. The aim of the study was to evaluate whether indirect decompression is impaired by FD and FT in patients undergoing ELIF. Thirty-seven patients undergoing ELIF were included in a retrospective study. Radiographic parameters including disk height, segmental disk angle, foraminal area, FD, FT, and clinical outcome parameters (Oswestry Disability Index and Visual Analog Scale) were measured preoperatively and postoperatively. FD and FT were correlated with radiographic and clinical outcome parameters in order to determine predictors restricting indirect decompression. Thirty-seven patients with a total of 74 levels were analyzed. Clinical and radiographic outcome measures including central canal area (Δ = +17.2 mm 2 ), mean disk height (Δ = +3 mm), and foraminal area (Δ = +9.9 mm 2 ) revealed significant improvement compared with before surgery (P ≤ 0.05). Patients with severe FD (grade 4) were more likely to have FT ≥ 12 degrees (32.3%) than patients without/mild (grades 0 and 1; 10%) or moderate FD (grades 2 and 3; 13%), P ≤ 0.05. FD and FT did not affect disk height restoration, foraminal area, canal surface area, or clinical outcome measures (P ≥ 0.05). Indirect decompression of neural elements in ELIF is not impaired by FD and FT are not relative contraindications in patients undergoing ELIF. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Prevalence of Fabry Disease in Familial Mediterranean Fever Patients from Central Anatolia of Turkey.

PubMed

Huzmeli, Can; Candan, Ferhan; Alaygut, Demet; Bagci, Gokhan; Akkaya, Lale; Bagci, Binnur; Sozmen, Eser Yıldırım; Kurtulgan, Hande Kucuk; Kayatas, Mansur

2016-08-01

Fabry disease (FD) is a progressive, X-linked inherited disorder of glycosphingolipid metabolism due to deficient or absent lysosomal alpha-galactosidase A (AGALA) activity. FD and familial Mediterranean fever (FMF) have typical clinical similarities, and both diseases may progress to end-stage renal diseases. In this study, we aimed to determine the prevalence of FD in patients with FMF from Central Anatolia of Turkey. The study group consisted of 177 FMF patients, followed up by the Adult and Pediatric Nephrology Clinic of Cumhuriyet University Hospital. Screening for AGALA activity was performed by the dry blood spot method. Mutation analysis for GLA gene was carried out for patients having an AGALA enzyme activity value lower than the normal reference value. Low AGALA activity was detected in 23 (13 %) patients. Heterozygous GLA gene mutation c.[937G>T] p.[D313Y] was detected in one female patient (0.56 %). The patient was a 53-year-old female with proteinuria and who had undergone left nephrectomy; her glomerular filtration rate (GFR) by scintigraphy was found to be 70 ml/min. She had M694V mutation and no clinical manifestation of FD. In our study, the prevalence rate of FD was found as 0.56 % in FMF patients. The similarities between the symptoms of FMF and FD might lead to a diagnostic dilemma in physicians at countries where FMF is observed frequently. Although the prevalence of FD is rare, physicians should keep in mind that FD has an ambiguous symptomology pattern of FMF.

The End of the Line: Can Ferredoxin and Ferredoxin NADP(H) Oxidoreductase Determine the Fate of Photosynthetic Electrons?

PubMed Central

Goss, Tatjana; Hanke, Guy

2014-01-01

At the end of the linear photosynthetic electron transfer (PET) chain, the small soluble protein ferredoxin (Fd) transfers electrons to Fd:NADP(H) oxidoreductase (FNR), which can then reduce NADP+ to support C assimilation. In addition to this linear electron flow (LEF), Fd is also thought to mediate electron flow back to the membrane complexes by different cyclic electron flow (CEF) pathways: either antimycin A sensitive, NAD(P)H complex dependent, or through FNR located at the cytochrome b6f complex. Both Fd and FNR are present in higher plant genomes as multiple gene copies, and it is now known that specific Fd iso-proteins can promote CEF. In addition, FNR iso-proteins vary in their ability to dynamically interact with thylakoid membrane complexes, and it has been suggested that this may also play a role in CEF. We will highlight work on the different Fd-isoproteins and FNR-membrane association found in the bundle sheath (BSC) and mesophyll (MC) cell chloroplasts of the C4 plant maize. These two cell types perform predominantly CEF and LEF, and the properties and activities of Fd and FNR in the BSC and MC are therefore specialized for CEF and LEF respectively. A diversity of Fd isoproteins and dynamic FNR location has also been recorded in C3 plants, algae and cyanobacteria. This indicates that the principles learned from the extreme electron transport situations in the BSC and MC of maize might be usefully applied to understanding the dynamic transition between these states in other systems. PMID:24678667

21 CFR 74.1706 - FD&C Yellow No. 6.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... manufacturing practice. (c) Labeling requirements. (1) The label of the color additive and any mixtures intended... COLOR ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Drugs § 74.1706 FD&C Yellow No. 6. (a) Identity and specifications. (1) The color additive FD&C Yellow No. 6 shall conform in identity and specifications to the...

21 CFR 74.2304 - FD&C Red No. 4.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Cosmetics § 74.2304 FD&C Red No. 4. (a) Identity and specifications. The color additive FD&C Red No. 4 shall conform in identity and specifications to the requirements of § 74... externally applied cosmetics in amounts consistent with good manufacturing practice. (c) Labeling. The label...

21 CFR 74.1340 - FD&C Red No. 40.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... amounts consistent with current good manufacturing practice. (c) Labeling. The label of the color additive... ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Drugs § 74.1340 FD&C Red No. 40. (a) Identity and specifications. (1) The color additive FD&C Red No. 40 shall conform in identity and specifications to the requirements of § 74...

21 CFR 74.2340 - FD&C Red No. 40.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... manufacturing practice. (2) The color additive shall not be exposed to oxidizing or reducing agents that may... ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Cosmetics § 74.2340 FD&C Red No. 40. (a) Identity and specifications. (1) The color additive FD&C Red No. 40 shall conform in identity and specifications to the requirements of...

Teacher-Student Cognitive Style and Achievement in Biology.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Jolly, Pauline E.; Strawitz, Barbara M.

1984-01-01

Investigated the consequences of teacher-student cognitive style (field dependence- FD and independence- FI) matches and mismatches on student achievement in biology. Results suggest that whereas FI students may be taught by and achieve equally well with either FI or FD teachers, FD students are more successfully taught by FI teachers. (JN)

Emerging pharmacological therapy for functional dyspepsia.

PubMed

Hojo, Mariko; Nagahara, Akihito; Asaoka, Daisuke; Watanabe, Sumio

2013-10-01

Functional dyspepsia (FD) is a multifactorial disease with complex underlying pathophysiology. To date, there is no established treatment for FD. This review summarizes recent progress in pharmacological therapy for the disease. A newly developed drug, acotiamide, is expected to improve symptoms of postprandial distress syndrome. Herbal medicines are also expected to become options for FD treatment.

21 CFR 74.2304 - FD&C Red No. 4.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Cosmetics § 74.2304 FD&C Red No. 4. (a) Identity and specifications. The color additive FD&C Red No. 4 shall conform in identity and specifications to the requirements of § 74... externally applied cosmetics in amounts consistent with good manufacturing practice. (c) Labeling. The label...

21 CFR 74.2340 - FD&C Red No. 40.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... manufacturing practice. (2) The color additive shall not be exposed to oxidizing or reducing agents that may... ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Cosmetics § 74.2340 FD&C Red No. 40. (a) Identity and specifications. (1) The color additive FD&C Red No. 40 shall conform in identity and specifications to the requirements of...

21 CFR 74.2340 - FD&C Red No. 40.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... manufacturing practice. (2) The color additive shall not be exposed to oxidizing or reducing agents that may... ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Cosmetics § 74.2340 FD&C Red No. 40. (a) Identity and specifications. (1) The color additive FD&C Red No. 40 shall conform in identity and specifications to the requirements of...

21 CFR 74.1340 - FD&C Red No. 40.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... amounts consistent with current good manufacturing practice. (c) Labeling. The label of the color additive... ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Drugs § 74.1340 FD&C Red No. 40. (a) Identity and specifications. (1) The color additive FD&C Red No. 40 shall conform in identity and specifications to the requirements of § 74...

21 CFR 74.1706 - FD&C Yellow No. 6.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... manufacturing practice. (c) Labeling requirements. (1) The label of the color additive and any mixtures intended... COLOR ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Drugs § 74.1706 FD&C Yellow No. 6. (a) Identity and specifications. (1) The color additive FD&C Yellow No. 6 shall conform in identity and specifications to the...

21 CFR 74.2304 - FD&C Red No. 4.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Cosmetics § 74.2304 FD&C Red No. 4. (a) Identity and specifications. The color additive FD&C Red No. 4 shall conform in identity and specifications to the requirements of § 74... externally applied cosmetics in amounts consistent with good manufacturing practice. (c) Labeling. The label...

21 CFR 74.1706 - FD&C Yellow No. 6.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... manufacturing practice. (c) Labeling requirements. (1) The label of the color additive and any mixtures intended... COLOR ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Drugs § 74.1706 FD&C Yellow No. 6. (a) Identity and specifications. (1) The color additive FD&C Yellow No. 6 shall conform in identity and specifications to the...

21 CFR 74.2340 - FD&C Red No. 40.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... manufacturing practice. (2) The color additive shall not be exposed to oxidizing or reducing agents that may... ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Cosmetics § 74.2340 FD&C Red No. 40. (a) Identity and specifications. (1) The color additive FD&C Red No. 40 shall conform in identity and specifications to the requirements of...

21 CFR 74.1706 - FD&C Yellow No. 6.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... manufacturing practice. (c) Labeling requirements. (1) The label of the color additive and any mixtures intended... COLOR ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Drugs § 74.1706 FD&C Yellow No. 6. (a) Identity and specifications. (1) The color additive FD&C Yellow No. 6 shall conform in identity and specifications to the...

21 CFR 74.2304 - FD&C Red No. 4.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Cosmetics § 74.2304 FD&C Red No. 4. (a) Identity and specifications. The color additive FD&C Red No. 4 shall conform in identity and specifications to the requirements of § 74... externally applied cosmetics in amounts consistent with good manufacturing practice. (c) Labeling. The label...

21 CFR 74.1340 - FD&C Red No. 40.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... amounts consistent with current good manufacturing practice. (c) Labeling. The label of the color additive... ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Drugs § 74.1340 FD&C Red No. 40. (a) Identity and specifications. (1) The color additive FD&C Red No. 40 shall conform in identity and specifications to the requirements of § 74...

21 CFR 74.2340 - FD&C Red No. 40.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... manufacturing practice. (2) The color additive shall not be exposed to oxidizing or reducing agents that may... ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Cosmetics § 74.2340 FD&C Red No. 40. (a) Identity and specifications. (1) The color additive FD&C Red No. 40 shall conform in identity and specifications to the requirements of...

21 CFR 74.1340 - FD&C Red No. 40.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... amounts consistent with current good manufacturing practice. (c) Labeling. The label of the color additive... ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Drugs § 74.1340 FD&C Red No. 40. (a) Identity and specifications. (1) The color additive FD&C Red No. 40 shall conform in identity and specifications to the requirements of § 74...

Real-Time Fault Detection Approach for Nonlinear Systems and its Asynchronous T-S Fuzzy Observer-Based Implementation.

PubMed

Li, Linlin; Ding, Steven X; Qiu, Jianbin; Yang, Ying

2017-02-01

This paper is concerned with a real-time observer-based fault detection (FD) approach for a general type of nonlinear systems in the presence of external disturbances. To this end, in the first part of this paper, we deal with the definition and the design condition for an L ∞ / L 2 type of nonlinear observer-based FD systems. This analytical framework is fundamental for the development of real-time nonlinear FD systems with the aid of some well-established techniques. In the second part, we address the integrated design of the L ∞ / L 2 observer-based FD systems by applying Takagi-Sugeno (T-S) fuzzy dynamic modeling technique as the solution tool. This fuzzy observer-based FD approach is developed via piecewise Lyapunov functions, and can be applied to the case that the premise variables of the FD system is nonsynchronous with the premise variables of the fuzzy model of the plant. In the end, a case study on the laboratory setup of three-tank system is given to show the efficiency of the proposed results.

Molecular interactions between photosystem I and ferredoxin: an integrated energy frustration and experimental model

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

Cashman, Derek J.; Zhu, Tuo; Simmerman, Richard F.

2014-08-01

The stromal domain (PsaC, PsaD, and PsaE) of photosystem I (PSI) reduces transiently bound ferredoxin (Fd) or flavodoxin. Experimental structures exist for all of these protein partners individually, but no experimental structure of the PSI/Fd or PSI/flavodoxin complexes is presently available. Molecular models of Fd docked onto the stromal domain of the cyanobacterial PSI site are constructed here utilizing X-ray and NMR structures of PSI and Fd, respectively. Moreover, predictions of potential protein-protein interaction regions are based on experimental site-directed mutagenesis and cross-linking studies to guide rigid body docking calculations of Fd into PSI, complemented by energy landscape theory tomore » bring together regions of high energetic frustration on each of the interacting proteins. Results identify two regions of high localized frustration on the surface of Fd that contain negatively charged Asp and Glu residues. Our study predicts that these regions interact predominantly with regions of high localized frustration on the PsaC, PsaD, and PsaE chains of PSI, which include several residues predicted by previous experimental studies.« less

The two-factor model of psychopathic personality: evidence from the psychopathic personality inventory.

PubMed

Marcus, David K; Fulton, Jessica J; Edens, John F

2013-01-01

Psychopathy or psychopathic personality disorder represents a constellation of traits characterized by superficial charm, egocentricity, irresponsibility, fearlessness, persistent violation of social norms, and a lack of empathy, guilt, and remorse. Factor analyses of the Psychopathic Personality Inventory (PPI)typically yield two factors: Fearless Dominance (FD) and Self-Centered Impulsivity (SCI). Additionally, the Coldheartedness (CH) subscale typically does not load on either factor. The current paper includes a meta-analysis of studies that have examined theoretically important correlates of the two PPI factors and CH. Results suggest that (a) FD and SCI are orthogonal or weakly correlated, (b) each factor predicts distinct (and sometimes opposite) correlates, and (c) the FD factor is not highly correlated with most other measures of psychopathy. This pattern of results raises important questions about the relation between FD and SCI and the role of FD in conceptualizations of psychopathy. Our findings also indicate the need for future studies using the two-factor model of the PPI to conduct moderational analyses to examine potential interactions between FD and SCI in the prediction of important criterion measures.

Fabry disease: A fundamental genetic modifier of cardiac function.

PubMed

Tadevosyan, A

Fabry disease (FD) is an inherited X-linked metabolic storage disorder triggered by abnormalities in the GLA gene at Xq22, which leads to a deficiency in α-galactosidase A and massive accumulation of intralysosomal glycosphingolipids. Cardiac complications are very common in FD and are the main cause of late morbidity, as well as early mortality in both hemizygous men and heterozygous women. There is a need for a multidisciplinary approach to evaluation and management of FD patients as there is a wide range of presentation of FD, which varies with mutation and other organ involvement/dysfunction. An overview of common cardiac involvement and clinical characteristics in FD including: left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH), conduction abnormalities and arrhythmias, coronary artery disease and valvular infiltrative myopathy are provided in this review. Current therapeutic approaches such as enzyme replacement therapy as well as the emergence of novel therapeutic options such as gene therapy to optimize disease outcomes in FD patients will be highlighted in this paper. Crown Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Performance and scalability of Fourier domain optical coherence tomography acceleration using graphics processing units.

PubMed

Li, Jian; Bloch, Pavel; Xu, Jing; Sarunic, Marinko V; Shannon, Lesley

2011-05-01

Fourier domain optical coherence tomography (FD-OCT) provides faster line rates, better resolution, and higher sensitivity for noninvasive, in vivo biomedical imaging compared to traditional time domain OCT (TD-OCT). However, because the signal processing for FD-OCT is computationally intensive, real-time FD-OCT applications demand powerful computing platforms to deliver acceptable performance. Graphics processing units (GPUs) have been used as coprocessors to accelerate FD-OCT by leveraging their relatively simple programming model to exploit thread-level parallelism. Unfortunately, GPUs do not "share" memory with their host processors, requiring additional data transfers between the GPU and CPU. In this paper, we implement a complete FD-OCT accelerator on a consumer grade GPU/CPU platform. Our data acquisition system uses spectrometer-based detection and a dual-arm interferometer topology with numerical dispersion compensation for retinal imaging. We demonstrate that the maximum line rate is dictated by the memory transfer time and not the processing time due to the GPU platform's memory model. Finally, we discuss how the performance trends of GPU-based accelerators compare to the expected future requirements of FD-OCT data rates.

Forkhead Transcription Factor Fd3F Cooperates with Rfx to Regulate a Gene Expression Program for Mechanosensory Cilia Specialization

PubMed Central

Newton, Fay G.; zur Lage, Petra I.; Karak, Somdatta; Moore, Daniel J.; Göpfert, Martin C.; Jarman, Andrew P.

2012-01-01

Summary Cilia have evolved hugely diverse structures and functions to participate in a wide variety of developmental and physiological processes. Ciliary specialization requires differences in gene expression, but few transcription factors are known to regulate this, and their molecular function is unclear. Here, we show that the Drosophila Forkhead box (Fox) gene, fd3F, is required for specialization of the mechanosensory cilium of chordotonal (Ch) neurons. fd3F regulates genes for Ch-specific axonemal dyneins and TRPV ion channels, which are required for sensory transduction, and retrograde transport genes, which are required to differentiate their distinct motile and sensory ciliary zones. fd3F is reminiscent of vertebrate Foxj1, a motile cilia regulator, but fd3F regulates motility genes as part of a broader sensory regulation program. Fd3F cooperates with the pan-ciliary transcription factor, Rfx, to regulate its targets directly. This illuminates pathways involved in ciliary specialization and the molecular mechanism of transcription factors that regulate them. PMID:22698283

Increased resting cerebral blood flow in adult Fabry disease: MRI arterial spin labeling study.

PubMed

Phyu, Po; Merwick, Aine; Davagnanam, Indran; Bolsover, Fay; Jichi, Fatima; Wheeler-Kingshott, Claudia; Golay, Xavier; Hughes, Deralynn; Cipolotti, Lisa; Murphy, Elaine; Lachmann, Robin H; Werring, David John

2018-04-17

To assess resting cerebral blood flow (CBF) in the whole-brain and cerebral white matter (WM) and gray matter (GM) of adults with Fabry disease (FD), using arterial spin labeling (ASL) MRI, and to investigate CBF correlations with WM hyperintensity (WMH) volume and the circulating biomarker lyso-Gb3. This cross-sectional, case-control study included 25 patients with genetically confirmed FD and 18 age-matched healthy controls. We quantified resting CBF using Quantitative Signal Targeting With Alternating Radiofrequency Labeling of Arterial Regions (QUASAR) ASL MRI. We measured WMH volume using semiautomated software. We measured CBF in regions of interest in whole-brain, WM, and deep GM, and assessed correlations with WMH volume and plasma lyso-Gb3. The mean age (% male) for FD and healthy controls was 42.2 years (44%) and 37.1 years (50%). Mean whole-brain CBF was 27.56 mL/100 mL/min (95% confidence interval [CI] 23.78-31.34) for FD vs 22.39 mL/100 mL/min (95% CI 20.08-24.70) for healthy controls, p = 0.03. In WM, CBF was higher in FD (22.42 mL/100 mL/min [95% CI 17.72-27.12] vs 16.25 mL/100 mL/min [95% CI 14.03-18.48], p = 0.05). In deep GM, CBF was similar between groups (40.41 mL/100 mL/min [95% CI 36.85-43.97] for FD vs 37.46 mL/100 mL/min [95% CI 32.57-42.35], p = 0.38). In patients with FD with WMH (n = 20), whole-brain CBF correlated with WMH volume ( r = 0.59, p = 0.006), not with plasma lyso-Gb3. In FD, resting CBF is increased in WM but not deep GM. In FD, CBF correlates with WMH, suggesting that cerebral perfusion changes might contribute to, or result from, WM injury. © 2018 American Academy of Neurology.

Evaluating Functional Diversity: Missing Trait Data and the Importance of Species Abundance Structure and Data Transformation

PubMed Central

Bryndová, Michala; Kasari, Liis; Norberg, Anna; Weiss, Matthias; Bishop, Tom R.; Luke, Sarah H.; Sam, Katerina; Le Bagousse-Pinguet, Yoann; Lepš, Jan; Götzenberger, Lars; de Bello, Francesco

2016-01-01

Functional diversity (FD) is an important component of biodiversity that quantifies the difference in functional traits between organisms. However, FD studies are often limited by the availability of trait data and FD indices are sensitive to data gaps. The distribution of species abundance and trait data, and its transformation, may further affect the accuracy of indices when data is incomplete. Using an existing approach, we simulated the effects of missing trait data by gradually removing data from a plant, an ant and a bird community dataset (12, 59, and 8 plots containing 62, 297 and 238 species respectively). We ranked plots by FD values calculated from full datasets and then from our increasingly incomplete datasets and compared the ranking between the original and virtually reduced datasets to assess the accuracy of FD indices when used on datasets with increasingly missing data. Finally, we tested the accuracy of FD indices with and without data transformation, and the effect of missing trait data per plot or per the whole pool of species. FD indices became less accurate as the amount of missing data increased, with the loss of accuracy depending on the index. But, where transformation improved the normality of the trait data, FD values from incomplete datasets were more accurate than before transformation. The distribution of data and its transformation are therefore as important as data completeness and can even mitigate the effect of missing data. Since the effect of missing trait values pool-wise or plot-wise depends on the data distribution, the method should be decided case by case. Data distribution and data transformation should be given more careful consideration when designing, analysing and interpreting FD studies, especially where trait data are missing. To this end, we provide the R package “traitor” to facilitate assessments of missing trait data. PMID:26881747

Evaluating Functional Diversity: Missing Trait Data and the Importance of Species Abundance Structure and Data Transformation.

PubMed

Májeková, Maria; Paal, Taavi; Plowman, Nichola S; Bryndová, Michala; Kasari, Liis; Norberg, Anna; Weiss, Matthias; Bishop, Tom R; Luke, Sarah H; Sam, Katerina; Le Bagousse-Pinguet, Yoann; Lepš, Jan; Götzenberger, Lars; de Bello, Francesco

2016-01-01

Functional diversity (FD) is an important component of biodiversity that quantifies the difference in functional traits between organisms. However, FD studies are often limited by the availability of trait data and FD indices are sensitive to data gaps. The distribution of species abundance and trait data, and its transformation, may further affect the accuracy of indices when data is incomplete. Using an existing approach, we simulated the effects of missing trait data by gradually removing data from a plant, an ant and a bird community dataset (12, 59, and 8 plots containing 62, 297 and 238 species respectively). We ranked plots by FD values calculated from full datasets and then from our increasingly incomplete datasets and compared the ranking between the original and virtually reduced datasets to assess the accuracy of FD indices when used on datasets with increasingly missing data. Finally, we tested the accuracy of FD indices with and without data transformation, and the effect of missing trait data per plot or per the whole pool of species. FD indices became less accurate as the amount of missing data increased, with the loss of accuracy depending on the index. But, where transformation improved the normality of the trait data, FD values from incomplete datasets were more accurate than before transformation. The distribution of data and its transformation are therefore as important as data completeness and can even mitigate the effect of missing data. Since the effect of missing trait values pool-wise or plot-wise depends on the data distribution, the method should be decided case by case. Data distribution and data transformation should be given more careful consideration when designing, analysing and interpreting FD studies, especially where trait data are missing. To this end, we provide the R package "traitor" to facilitate assessments of missing trait data.

Psychological factors in patients with peptic ulcerand functional dyspepsia.

PubMed

Faramarzi, Mahbobeh; Kheirkhah, Farzan; Shokri-Shirvani, Javad; Mosavi, Shokofeh; Zarini, Soroush

2014-01-01

The role of psychological factors in peptic ulcer disease (PUD) and functional dyspepsia (FD) has not been clearly determined. In this study the role of conflict management styles, psychiatric symptoms, and alexithymia were assessed in patients with PUD and FD and in the healthy individuals. Ninety subjects [30 PUD (15 women, 15 men), 30 FD (15 women, 15 men), and 30 healthy individuals (15 women, 15 men)] in two endoscopy wards of Babol University of Medical Sciences were evaluated. Three groups were matched with regard to demographic variables. Conflict management styles, psychiatric symptoms, and alexithymia were evaluated by appropriate questionnaires. The patients with PUD reported less mean scores on psychiatric symptoms than the FD patients (depression 12.6±7.5 vs 28±9.5, anxiety 8.2±5.9 vs 18.7±6. obsessive-compulsive disorder 15.7±7.5 vs 21.8±8.4, interpersonal sensitivity 9.5±7.4 vs 16±7, psychoticism 8.03±4.5 vs 14.3±6.3, somatization 12.5±10.8 vs 20.7±8.1, and the total score of psychiatric symptoms 94.4±49.9 vs 160.1±46.6). The mean scores use of unconstructive conflict management styles in PUD patients were lower than FD (dominating 17.7±3.5 vs 20.2±2.7, avoiding 17.5±3 vs 23.8±4.4). Alexithymia symptoms were higher in FD patients than PUD individuals (difficulty in identifying feelings 23.5±6.3 vs 27.8±3.9, difficulty in describing feeling 16.5±4.4 vs 17.3±3.6). The PUD and FD patients had higher scores regarding these variables than the healthy subjects. The results show that both PUD and FD patients experienced more psychiatric symptoms, unconstructive conflict management styles, and alexithymia than the healthy subjects. FD patients had worse psychiatric problems than PUD.

A novel method for quantification of gemcitabine and its metabolites 2',2'-difluorodeoxyuridine and gemcitabine triphosphate in tumour tissue by LC-MS/MS: comparison with (19)F NMR spectroscopy.

PubMed

Bapiro, Tashinga E; Richards, Frances M; Goldgraben, Mae A; Olive, Kenneth P; Madhu, Basetti; Frese, Kristopher K; Cook, Natalie; Jacobetz, Michael A; Smith, Donna-Michelle; Tuveson, David A; Griffiths, John R; Jodrell, Duncan I

2011-11-01

To develop a sensitive analytical method to quantify gemcitabine (2',2'-difluorodeoxycytidine, dFdC) and its metabolites 2',2'-difluorodeoxyuridine (dFdU) and 2',2'-difluorodeoxycytidine-5'-triphosphate (dFdCTP) simultaneously from tumour tissue. Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma tumour tissue from genetically engineered mouse models of pancreatic cancer (KP ( FL/FL ) C and KP ( R172H/+) C) was collected after dosing the mice with gemcitabine. (19)F NMR spectroscopy and LC-MS/MS protocols were optimised to detect gemcitabine and its metabolites in homogenates of the tumour tissue. A (19)F NMR protocol was developed, which was capable of distinguishing the three analytes in tumour homogenates. However, it required at least 100 mg of the tissue in question and a long acquisition time per sample, making it impractical for use in large PK/PD studies or clinical trials. The LC-MS/MS protocol was developed using porous graphitic carbon to separate the analytes, enabling simultaneous detection of all three analytes from as little as 10 mg of tissue, with a sensitivity for dFdCTP of 0.2 ng/mg tissue. Multiple pieces of tissue from single tumours were analysed, showing little intra-tumour variation in the concentrations of dFdC or dFdU (both intra- and extra-cellular). Intra-tumoural variation was observed in the concentration of dFdCTP, an intra-cellular metabolite, which may reflect regions of different cellularity within a tumour. We have developed a sensitive LC-MS/MS method capable of quantifying gemcitabine, dFdU and dFdCTP in pancreatic tumour tissue. The requirement for only 10 mg of tissue enables this protocol to be used to analyse multiple areas from a single tumour and to spare tissue for additional pharmacodynamic assays.

6D.03: FLOW-MEDIATED DILATATION (FMD) AND ENDOTHELIUM-INDEPENDENT DILATATION (EID) IN PATIENTS WITH MULTIFOCAL FIBROMUSCULAR DYSPLASIA: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY.

PubMed

Khettab, H; Lorthior, A; Niarra, R; Chambon, Y; Jeunemaitre, X; Plouin, P F; Laurent, S; Boutouyrie, P; Azizi, M

2015-06-01

Fibromuscular dysplasia (FD) is a rare idiopathic, segmental, non-atherosclerotic non-inflammatory vascular disease. We previously showed that FD is a general arterial disease with focal exacerbation of the trait. However, whether endothelial dysfunction may be involved in the pathophysiology of FD is unclear. In a cross sectional study, we compared the endothelial function between 50 patients with multifocal FD of renal/carotid arteries confirmed by CT-angiography, 50 essential hypertensive (EH) patients matched for age, sex, ethnicity and BP and 50 healthy subjects (HS) matched for age, sex and ethnicity. Exclusion criteria were: tobacco consumption, hypercholesterolemia, diabetes, aspirin or statin treatment. Brachial artery (BA) FMD after release of hand ischemia and glyceryl trinitrate (GTN)-induced EID was measured using a high-resolution radiofrequency-based echotracking system blind to the diagnosis. FD, EH and HS were well matched (52yrs, 85% women, 80% caucasian). SBP was higher in FD (125 ± 15mmHg) and EH (121 ± 12mmHg) than EH (113 ± 10mmHg) despite antihypertensive treatments. BA external diameter was significantly lower in FD than in both HS and EH before, during and after hand ischemia and after GTN. BA intima media thickness (IMT), internal diameter did not differ between the 3 groups. FMD (%) or EID (%) did not significantly differ between the 3 groups. BA flow velocity did not significantly differ in any experimental condition.(Figure is included in full-text article.) : In conclusion, despite showing similar acute vasodilatory responses to flow and GTN, FD patients differed from EH and HS in terms of arterial morphology with smaller BA diameter associated with similar IMT. This paradoxical remodeling may suggest a chronic defect in the endothelium-dependent pathways involved in arterial remodeling in FD patients.

Nonlinear dynamics analysis of the human balance control subjected to physical and sensory perturbations.

PubMed

Ashtiani, Mohammed N; Mahmood-Reza, Azghani

2017-01-01

Postural control after applying perturbation involves neural and muscular efforts to limit the center of mass (CoM) motion. Linear dynamical approaches may not unveil all complexities of body efforts. This study was aimed at determining two nonlinear dynamics parameters (fractal dimension (FD) and largest Lyapunov exponent (LLE)) in addition to the linear standing metrics of balance in perturbed stance. Sixteen healthy young males were subjected to sudden rotations of the standing platform. The vision and cognition during the standing were also interfered. Motion capturing was used to measure the lower limb joints and the CoM displacements. The CoM path length as a linear parameter was increased by elimination of vision (p<0.01) and adding a cognitive load (p<0.01). The CoM nonlinear metric FD was decreased due to the cognitive loads (p<0.001). The visual interference increased the FD of all joints when the task included the cognitive loads (p<0.01). The slightly positive LLE values showed weakly-chaotic behavior of the whole body. The local joint rotations indicated higher LLEs. Results indicated weakly chaotic response of the whole body. Increase in the task difficulty by adding sensory interference had difference effects on parameters. Linear and nonlinear metrics of the perturbed stance showed that a combination of them may properly represent the body behavior.

Antibody Fab display and selection through fusion to the pIX coat protein of filamentous phage.

PubMed

Tornetta, Mark; Baker, Scott; Whitaker, Brian; Lu, Jin; Chen, Qiang; Pisors, Eileen; Shi, Lei; Luo, Jinquan; Sweet, Raymond; Tsui, Ping

2010-08-31

Fab antibody display on filamentous phage is widely applied to de novo antibody discovery and engineering. Here we describe a phagemid system for the efficient display and affinity selection of Fabs through linkage to the minor coat protein pIX. Display was successful by fusion of either Fd or Lc through a short linker to the amino terminus of pIX and co-expression of the counter Lc or Fd as a secreted, soluble fragment. Assembly of functional Fab was confirmed by demonstration of antigen-specific binding using antibodies of known specificity. Phage displaying a Fab specific for RSV-F protein with Fd linked to pIX showed efficient, antigen-specific enrichment when mixed with phage displaying a different specificity. The functionality of this system for antibody engineering was evaluated in an optimization study. A RSV-F protein specific antibody with an affinity of about 2nM was randomized at 4 positions in light chain CDR1. Three rounds of selection with decreasing antigen concentration yielded Fabs with an affinity improvement up to 70-fold and showed a general correlation between enrichment frequency and affinity. We conclude that the pIX coat protein complements other display systems in filamentous phage as an efficient vehicle for low copy display and selection of Fab proteins. 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Test-retest reliability of muscle fiber conduction velocity and fractal dimension of surface EMG during isometric contractions.

PubMed

Beretta-Piccoli, Matteo; D'Antona, Giuseppe; Zampella, Cristian; Barbero, Marco; Clijsen, Ron; Cescon, Corrado

2017-04-01

The aim of this study was to determine the test-retest reliability of muscle fiber conduction velocity (CV) and fractal dimension (FD) obtained from multichannel surface electromyographic (sEMG) recordings. Forty healthy recreationally active subjects (20 men and 20 women) performed two elbow flexions on two trials with a 1 week interval. The first was a 20% maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) of 120 s, and the second at 60% MVC held until exhaustion. sEMG signals were detected from the biceps brachii, using bi-dimensional arrays. Initial values and slope of CV and FD were used for the reliability analysis. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) values for the isometric contraction at 20% MVC were (-0.09) and 0.67 for CV and FD respectively; whereas the ICC values at 60% MVC were 0.78 and 0.82 for CV and FD respectively. The Bland Altman plots for the two isometric contractions showed a mean difference close to zero, with no evident outliers between the repeated measurements: at 20% MVC 0.001 53 for FD and  -0.0277 for CV, and at 60% MVC 0.006 66 for FD and 0.009 07 for CV. Overall, our findings suggest that during isometric fatiguing contractions, CV and FD slopes are reliable variables, with potential application in clinical populations.

Combined effect of γ-irradiation and bacterial-fermented dextrose on microbiological quality of refrigerated pork sausages

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dussault, D.; Benoit, C.; Lacroix, M.

2012-08-01

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of a concentrated fermented dextrose (FD), a natural antimicrobial product, combined with low dose γ-irradiation (1.5 kGy) on the microbiological quality of fresh pork sausages. Fresh pork sausages containing the FD (0.25%, 0.5% and 0.75%) were prepared in a meat pilot plant and were irradiated using a UC-15A irradiator equipped with a 60Cobalt source. The γ-irradiation treatment alone was able to reduce the initial psychrophilic and mesophilic bacteria by more than 2 log CFU/g and kept the lactobacillus population under the detection limit (100 CFU/g). Results also showed that the FD alone was able to extend the shelf life of the sausages from 5 days up to 13 days. At day 13, the FD or irradiation alone showed 2 log CFU/g less mesophilic bacteria than the control. After combining FD and irradiation another reduction of the microbial count of 1 log CFU/g was observed. When combining the irradiation treatment with the FD results it showed a reduced growth rate of the psychrophilic and mesophilic bacteria compared to both treatments alone. This study demonstrated that FD with low dose gamma irradiation act in synergy to reduce the multiplication of the total bacterial flora in fresh sausages.

Continuous cardiac troponin I release in Fabry disease.

PubMed

Feustel, Andreas; Hahn, Andreas; Schneider, Christian; Sieweke, Nicole; Franzen, Wolfgang; Gündüz, Dursun; Rolfs, Arndt; Tanislav, Christian

2014-01-01

Fabry disease (FD) is a rare lysosomal storage disorder also affecting the heart. The aims of this study were to determine the frequency of cardiac troponin I (cTNI) elevation, a sensitive parameter reflecting myocardial damage, in a smaller cohort of FD-patients, and to analyze whether persistent cTNI can be a suitable biomarker to assess cardiac dysfunction in FD. cTNI values were determined at least twice per year in 14 FD-patients (6 males and 8 females) regularly followed-up in our centre. The data were related to other parameters of heart function including cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (cMRI). Three patients (21%) without specific vascular risk factors other than FD had persistent cTNI-elevations (range 0.05-0.71 ng/ml, normal: <0.01). cMRI disclosed late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) in all three individuals with cTNI values ≥0.01, while none of the 11 patients with cTNI <0.01 showed a pathological enhancement (p<0.01). Two subjects with increased cTNI-values underwent coronary angiography, excluding relevant stenoses. A myocardial biopsy performed in one during this procedure demonstrated substantial accumulation of globotriaosylceramide (Gb3) in cardiomyocytes. Continuous cTNI elevation seems to occur in a substantial proportion of patients with FD. The high accordance with LGE, reflecting cardiac dysfunction, suggests that cTNI-elevation can be a useful laboratory parameter for assessing myocardial damage in FD.

The Frequency of Fabry Disease among Young Cryptogenic Stroke Patients in the City of Sakarya.

PubMed

Gündoğdu, Aslı Aksoy; Kotan, Dilcan; Alemdar, Murat

2017-06-01

Fabry disease (FD) is known as a rare cause of stroke. Recent studies suggested that FD is an underdiagnosed entity among young stroke patients. We aimed to investigate the frequency of FD in young cryptogenic stroke patients who lived in the City of Sakarya and to define the clinical features that help in recognizing patients with FD. Acute ischemic stroke patients aged 18-55 years who were admitted to our hospital between October 2013 and September 2016 were evaluated for inclusion. Patients with other recognized causes of stroke were excluded. The screening was performed for alpha-galactosidase A (α-Gal A) activity on dried blood spot, and DNA was sequenced for GLA mutation in patients with low plasma α-Gal A activity. Among the 484 acute ischemic stroke patients, 54 (24 male, 44.4%) young cryptogenic stroke patients were enrolled. The α-Gal A activity was detected as low in 3 patients. c.[680G > A] p.[R227Q] missense mutation was identified in 2 male patients. The frequency of FD was calculated as 3.7%. Our research is the first FD screening study in Turkish stroke patients. Our results underlined the importance of considering FD during the etiologic evaluation of young cryptogenic stroke patients as it is a rare but potentially treatable entity. Copyright © 2017 National Stroke Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

21 CFR 74.303 - FD&C Red No. 3.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES GENERAL LISTING OF COLOR ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Foods § 74.303 FD&C Red No. 3. (a) Identity. (1) The color additive FD&C... are listed in part 73 of this chapter as safe for use in color additive mixtures for coloring foods...

21 CFR 74.303 - FD&C Red No. 3.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES GENERAL LISTING OF COLOR ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Foods § 74.303 FD&C Red No. 3. (a) Identity. (1) The color additive FD&C... are listed in part 73 of this chapter as safe for use in color additive mixtures for coloring foods...

21 CFR 74.303 - FD&C Red No. 3.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES GENERAL LISTING OF COLOR ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Foods § 74.303 FD&C Red No. 3. (a) Identity. (1) The color additive FD&C... are listed in part 73 of this chapter as safe for use in color additive mixtures for coloring foods...

21 CFR 74.1706 - FD&C Yellow No. 6.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 1 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false FD&C Yellow No. 6. 74.1706 Section 74.1706 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES GENERAL LISTING OF... safe for use in color additive mixtures for coloring drugs. (b) Uses and restrictions. FD&C Yellow No...

21 CFR 74.1203 - FD&C Green No. 3.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 1 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false FD&C Green No. 3. 74.1203 Section 74.1203 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES GENERAL LISTING OF COLOR... use in color additive mixtures for coloring drugs. (b) Uses and restrictions. The color additive FD&C...

21 CFR 74.1303 - FD&C Red No. 3.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 1 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false FD&C Red No. 3. 74.1303 Section 74.1303 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES GENERAL LISTING OF COLOR... use in color additive mixtures for coloring ingested drugs. (b) Uses and restrictions. FD&C Red No. 3...

21 CFR 74.1101 - FD&C Blue No. 1

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 1 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false FD&C Blue No. 1 74.1101 Section 74.1101 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES GENERAL LISTING OF COLOR... mixtures for coloring drugs. (b) Specifications. (1) The color additive FD&C Blue No. 1 for use in coloring...

21 CFR 82.101 - FD&C Blue No. 1.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 1 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false FD&C Blue No. 1. 82.101 Section 82.101 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES GENERAL LISTING OF CERTIFIED PROVISIONALLY LISTED COLORS AND SPECIFICATIONS Foods, Drugs, and Cosmetics § 82.101 FD&C Blue No. 1. The color...

21 CFR 82.101 - FD&C Blue No. 1.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 1 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false FD&C Blue No. 1. 82.101 Section 82.101 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES GENERAL LISTING OF CERTIFIED PROVISIONALLY LISTED COLORS AND SPECIFICATIONS Foods, Drugs, and Cosmetics § 82.101 FD&C Blue No. 1. The color...

Solution 1H NMR determination of secondary structure for the three-iron form of ferredoxin from the hyperthermophilic archaeon Pyrococcus furiosus.

PubMed

Teng, Q; Zhou, Z H; Smith, E T; Busse, S C; Howard, J B; Adams, M W; La Mar, G N

1994-05-24

Two-dimensional 1H NMR data have been used to make sequence-specific assignments and define the secondary structure of the three-iron form of the oxidized ferredoxin, Fd, from the hyperthermophilic archaeon Pyrococcus furiosus, Pf. Signals for at least some protons were located for 65 of the 66 amino acids in the sequence, in spite of the paramagnetic (S = 1/2) ground state, but not all could be assigned. Unassigned and missing signals could be qualitatively correlated with the expected proximity of the protons to the paramagnetic cluster. The secondary structure was deduced from qualitative analysis of the 2D nuclear Overhauser effect, which identified two antiparallel beta-sheets, one triple-stranded including Ala1-Ser5, Val39-Glu41, and Thr62-Ala66, and one double-stranded consisting of Glu26-Asn28 and Lys32-Glu34, as well as an alpha-helix involving Glu43-Glu54. Three tight type I turns are located at residues Asp7-Thr10, Pro22-Phe25, and Asp29-Gly31. Comparison with the crystal structure of Desulfovibrio gigas, Dg, Fd (Kissinger et al., 1991) reveals a very similar folding topology, although several secondary structural elements are extended in Pf relative to Dg Fd. Thus the beta-sheet involving the two termini is expanded to include the two terminal residues and incorporates a third strand from the internal loop that is lengthened by several insertions in Pf relative to Dg Fd. The double-stranded beta-sheet in the interior of Pf Fd is lengthened slightly due to a much tighter type I turn between the two strands. The helix near the C-terminus is three residues longer in Pf than in Dg Fd, as well as being shifted toward the N-terminus. The disulfide link between the two nonligating Cys residues (Cys21 and Cys48) is conserved in Pf Fd, but the link near the C-terminus is in the middle of the long alpha-helix in Pf Fd, instead of at the N-terminus of the helix as in Dg Fd. The extensions of the beta-sheets and alpha-helix increase the number of main-chain hydrogen bonds in Pf Fd by approximately 8 relative to those in Dg Fd and likely contribute to its remarkable thermostability (it is unaffected by anaerobic incubation at 95 degrees C for 24 h).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

A Rome III survey of functional dyspepsia among the ethnic Malays in a primary care setting

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Backgrounds The study aimed to survey for FD in a primary care setting in a population known to have an extremely low prevalence of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection, with the hypothesis that in such a population, dyspepsia should have been relatively less common. Methods The Rome III FD Diagnostic Questionnaire was translated into the Malay language and later tested for reliability. A prospective cross-sectional survey was then performed involving 160 Malay patients attending primary care clinic after informed consent. Patients positive for symptoms of FD were subjected to upper endoscopy and exclusion of H. pylori infection. Univariable and multivariable analyses were used to test for associated risk factors. Results The back-translated questionnaire was similar to the original English version and was reliable (Cronbach Alpha-coefficient 0.85). Of the 160 surveyed subjects, 19 of them (11.9%) had symptoms of FD. With exclusion of erosive diseases (3/160 or 1.9%) from endoscopy, 16 subjects or 10% had FD. None of the 19 subjects were positive for H. pylori infection. Epigastric pain syndrome was present in 11/16 (68.8%) and the rest, overlap with postprandial distress syndrome. With multivariable analysis, a married status (OR = 8.1; 95% CI 1.0-36.5) and positive psychosocial alarm symptoms (OR = 3.8; 95% CI 1.0-14.0) were associated with FD. Of those married subjects, females were more likely to have FD and psychosocial symptoms than men (6.3% vs. 1.9%), P = 0.04. Conclusions FD was more common than one had expected among Malays attending primary care clinic in an area with low prevalence of H. pylori. PMID:23672671

Micro-inflammation in functional dyspepsia: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

PubMed

Du, L; Chen, B; Kim, J J; Chen, X; Dai, N

2018-04-01

Functional dyspepsia (FD) is a gastrointestinal disorder of unknown etiology. Although micro-inflammation appears to be important in the pathogenesis, studies evaluating immune activation in FD have been inconsistent. A systematic review of literature and meta-analysis was performed to compare immunologic cell counts and cytokine levels in the mucosa and peripheral blood of individuals with FD and healthy controls. PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane library were searched. Data on immunologic cell counts and cytokines levels among individuals with FD and control groups were extracted and compared by calculating standard mean differences (SMD). Thirty-seven studies met the inclusion criteria. Mast cell (SMD = 0.94, 95%CI 0.26-1.62, P = .007) and eosinophil counts (SMD = 0.36, 95%CI 0.06-0.68, P = .03) in the stomach were increased, among individuals with FD compared to controls. Similarly, mast cell (SMD = 0.66, 95%CI 0.20-1.13, P = 0.005) and eosinophil (SMD = 0.95, 95%CI 0.66-1.24; P < .001) counts in the duodenum were also increased in those with FD compared to controls. In a subgroup analysis, elevated eosinophil counts in the duodenum were observed in both post-prandial distress syndrome (SMD = 0.97, 95%CI 0.46-1.47, P = .0002) and epigastric pain syndrome subtypes (SMD = 1.16, 95%CI 0.48-1.83, P = .0008). No differences in mucosal intraepithelial lymphocyte, enterochromaffin cell, and neutrophil counts, as well as, peripheral interlukin-6 (IL-6) and IL-10 levels were observed among individuals with FD and controls. Micro-inflammation in the form of local immune cell infiltration, particularly eosinophils and mast cells, characterizes the pathogenesis of FD. © 2018 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Innovative online faculty development utilizing the power of social media.

PubMed

Klein, Melissa; Niebuhr, Virginia; D'Alessandro, Donna

2013-01-01

Faculty development (FD) is important for continued professional development, but expense and distance remain challenging. These challenges could be minimized by the free and asynchronous nature of social media (SM). We sought to determine the utility and effectiveness of conducting a national online FD activity on Facebook by assessing participants' perceptions and use and facilitators' challenges. An educational activity of a national FD program was managed on a closed Facebook group. Activities included postings of educational technology goals, abstracting an article, and commenting on peers' postings. Sources of quantitative data included the Facebook postings and the survey responses. Surveys before, after, and 6 months after the activity assessed knowledge, attitudes and self-reported behaviors. Sources of qualitative data were the open-ended survey questions and the content of the Facebook postings. All participants completed the FD activity and evaluations, yielding 38 postings and 115 comments. Before the activity, 88% had a personal Facebook account, 64% were somewhat/very confident using Facebook, 77% thought SM would be useful for professional networking, and 12% had used it professionally. Six months after the activity, professional usage had increased to 35%. Continued use of Facebook for future presentations of this FD activity was recommended by 76%. Qualitative analysis yielded 12 types of Facebook postings and 7 themes related to using SM for FD. Conducting a national FD activity on Facebook yielded excellent participation rates and positive participant impressions, and it affected professional usage. Facebook may become an additional tool in the educator's toolbox for FD as a result of its acceptability and accessibility. Copyright © 2013 Academic Pediatric Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Flat-detector computed tomography evaluation in an experimental animal aneurysm model after endovascular treatment: A pilot study.

PubMed

Ott, Sabine; Gölitz, Philipp; Adamek, Edyta; Royalty, Kevin; Doerfler, Arnd; Struffert, Tobias

2015-08-01

We compared flat-detector computed tomography angiography (FD-CTA) to multislice computed tomography (MS-CTA) and digital subtracted angiography (DSA) for the visualization of experimental aneurysms treated with stents, coils or a combination of both.In 20 rabbits, aneurysms were created using the rabbit elastase aneurysm model. Seven aneurysms were treated with coils, seven with coils and stents, and six with self-expandable stents alone. Imaging was performed by DSA, MS-CTA and FD-CTA immediately after treatment. Multiplanar reconstruction (MPR) was performed and two experienced reviewers compared aneurysm/coil package size, aneurysm occlusion, stent diameters and artifacts for each modality.In aneurysms treated with stents alone, the visualization of the aneurysms was identical in all three imaging modalities. Residual aneurysm perfusion was present in two cases and visible in DSA and FD-CTA but not in MS-CTA. The diameter of coil-packages was overestimated in MS-CT by 56% and only by 16% in FD-CTA compared to DSA (p < 0.05). The diameter of stents was identical for DSA and FD-CTA and was significantly overestimated in MS-CTA (p < 0.05). Beam/metal hardening artifacts impaired image quality more severely in MS-CTA compared to FD-CTA.MS-CTA is impaired by blooming and beam/metal hardening artifacts in the visualization of implanted devices. There was no significant difference between measurements made with noninvasive FD-CTA compared to gold standard of DSA after stenting and after coiling/stent-assisted coiling of aneurysms. FD-CTA may be considered as a non-invasive alternative to the gold standard 2D DSA in selected patients that require follow up imaging after stenting. © The Author(s) 2015.

Later Onset Fabry Disease, Cardiac Damage Progress in Silence: Experience With a Highly Prevalent Mutation.

PubMed

Hsu, Ting-Rong; Hung, Sheng-Che; Chang, Fu-Pang; Yu, Wen-Chung; Sung, Shih-Hsien; Hsu, Chia-Lin; Dzhagalov, Ivan; Yang, Chia-Feng; Chu, Tzu-Hung; Lee, Han-Jui; Lu, Yung-Hsiu; Chang, Sheng-Kai; Liao, Hsuan-Chieh; Lin, Hsiang-Yu; Liao, Tsan-Chieh; Lee, Pi-Chang; Li, Hsing-Yuan; Yang, An-Hang; Ho, Hui-Chen; Chiang, Chuan-Chi; Lin, Ching-Yuang; Desnick, Robert J; Niu, Dau-Ming

2016-12-13

Recently, several studies revealed a much higher prevalence of later onset Fabry disease (FD) than previously expected. It suggested that later onset FD might present as an important hidden health issue in certain ethnic or demographic populations in the world. However, the natural history of its phenotype has not been systemically investigated, especially the cardiac involvement. The study analyzed a large-scale newborn screening program for FD to understand the natural course of later onset FD. To date, 916,383 newborns have been screened for FD in Taiwan, including more than 1,200 individuals with the common, later onset IVS4+919G>A (IVS4) mutation. Echocardiography was performed in 620 adults with the IVS4 mutation to analyze the prevalence of left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH), and gadolinium-enhanced cardiac magnetic resonance imaging was performed in 129 patients with FD, including 100 IVS4 adults. LVH was observed in 67% of men and 32% of women older than 40 years. Imaging evidenced significant late gadolinium enhancement in 38.1% of IVS4 men and 16.7% of IVS4 women with the IVS4 mutation but without LVH. Seventeen patients underwent endomyocardial biopsies, which revealed significant globotriaosylceramide substrate accumulation in their cardiomyocytes. Significant cardiomyocyte substrate accumulation in IVS4 patients led to severe and irreversible cardiac fibrosis before development of LVH or other significant cardiac manifestations. Thus, it might be too late to start enzyme replacement therapy after the occurrence of LVH or other significant cardiac manifestations in patients with later onset FD. This study also indicated the importance of newborn screening for early detection of the insidious, ongoing, irreversible cardiac damage in patients with later onset FD. Copyright © 2016 American College of Cardiology Foundation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Proton gradient regulation 5 supports linear electron flow to oxidize photosystem I.

PubMed

Takagi, Daisuke; Miyake, Chikahiro

2018-03-31

In higher plants, light drives the linear photosynthetic electron transport reaction from H 2 O to electron sinks, which is called as linear electron flow (LEF). LEF activity should be regulated depending on electron sinks; otherwise excess electrons accumulate in the thylakoid membranes and stimulate reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in photosystem I (PSI), which causes oxidative damage to PSI. To prevent ROS production in PSI, PSI should be oxidized during photosynthesis, and PROTON GRADIENT REGULATION 5 (PGR5) and PGR like 1 (PGRL1) are important to oxidized PSI. PGR5 and PGRL1 are recognized as a component of ferredoxin-dependent cyclic electron flow around PSI (Fd-CEF-PSI), however there is no direct evidence for the significant operation of Fd-CEF-PSI during photosynthesis in wild-type (WT) plants. Thus, electron distribution by PGR5 and PGRL1 between Fd-CEF-PSI and LEF is still elusive. Here, we show direct evidence that Fd-CEF-PSI activity is minor during steady state photosynthesis by measuring the Fd redox state in vivo in Arabidopsis thaliana. We found that Fd oxidation rate is determined by LEF activity during steady state photosynthesis in WT. On the other hand, pgr5 and pgrl1 showed lower electron transport efficiency from PSI to electron sinks through Fd during steady state photosynthesis. These results demonstrate that electrons are exclusively consumed in electron sinks through Fd, and the phenotypes of pgr5 and pgrl1 are likely caused by the disturbance of the LEF between PSI and electron sinks. We suggest that PGR5 and PGRL1 modulate the LEF according to electron sink activities around PSI. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Histomorphological Spectrum of Duodenal Pathology in Functional Dyspepsia Patients

PubMed Central

Rane, Sharada Raju; Jadhav, Meenal Vitthal

2017-01-01

Introduction Functional Dyspepsia (FD) is one of the most common causes of gastrointestinal symptoms aetiology of which is poorly understood. Aim To study duodenal histomorphological features and their relationship with Helicobacter pylori (H Pylori) infection in patients of FD. Materials and Methods This case control study included 50 cases of FD patients selected according to Rome III criteria and 30 age and sex matched controls. These were subjected to oesophago-gastro-duodenoscopy, rapid urease test for detection of H. pylori on gastric antral biopsy and duodenal biopsy from second part of duodenum for histopathological evaluation by light microscopy. Ten antral urease positive cases of FD with highest Intraepithelial Lymphocyte Count (IEL) were subjected to Immunohistochemistry (IHC). Results Duodenal inflammation was an invariable feature noted in FD. Morphological spectrum consisted of increased IEL in 72%, increased duodenal eosinophils in 92%, presence of focal villous atrophy in 16%, lymphoid aggregates, colonic metaplasia, and duodenal H. pylori infection in 4% each. Gastric H. pylori positivity was noted in 48% cases of FD. Increased duodenal IEL count and duodenal eosinophilia was noted in 75%, 87.5% such cases. Same was noted respectively, with 61.5% and 95.15% cases with gastric H. pylori negativity. In cases of FD, duodenal IEL and eosinophil count in lamina propria showed statistically significant rise when compared with control and had positive correlation with gastric H pylori infection. On IHC, increased expression of CD 8 was noted in duodenal IEL and lymphocytes in lamina propria as compared to CD4. Conclusion Our study provided some insight in pathogenesis of FD and role of H. pylori in its aetiology. PMID:28764169

Frequency of Fluoride Dentifrice Use and Caries Lesions Inhibition and Repair.

PubMed

Nóbrega, Diego Figueiredo; Fernández, Constanza Estefany; Del Bel Cury, Altair Antoninha; Tenuta, Livia Maria Andaló; Cury, Jaime Aparecido

2016-01-01

The clinical relevance of the frequency of fluoride dentifrice (FD) use on enamel caries is based on evidence. However, the relative effect of FD on reduction of demineralization or enhancement of remineralization is unknown and the effect of frequency on root dentine caries has not been explored. The aim of this double-blind, crossover, in situ study, which was conducted in 4 phases of 14 days each, was to evaluate the relationship between the frequency of FD use and enamel and root dentine de- and remineralization. Eighteen volunteers wore palatal appliances containing enamel and root dentine slabs, either sound or carious. Biofilm accumulation on the slab surface was allowed, and 20% sucrose solution was dripped 3 or 8 times per day on the carious and sound slabs, respectively. Volunteers used FD (1,100 μg F/g) in the frequencies 0 (fluoride-placebo dentifrice), 1, 2 and 3 times per day. The demineralization and remineralization that occurred in sound or carious slabs was estimated by the percentage of surface hardness loss (%SHL) or recovery (%SHR). Loosely (CaF2) and firmly (FAp) bound fluoride concentrations were also determined. The relationship between the variables was analyzed by linear regression. The %SHL, CaF2 and FAp concentrations were a function of the frequency of FD use for enamel and dentine, but the %SHR was a function of the frequency of FD use only for enamel (p < 0.05). The results suggest that demineralization in enamel and root dentine is reduced in proportion to the frequency of FD use, but for remineralization the effect of the frequency of FD use was relevant only to enamel. © 2016 S. Karger AG, Basel.

De novo Diagnosis of Fabry Disease among Italian Adults with Acute Ischemic Stroke or Transient Ischemic Attack.

PubMed

Romani, Ilaria; Borsini, Walter; Nencini, Patrizia; Morrone, Amelia; Ferri, Lorenzo; Frusconi, Sabrina; Donadio, Vincenzo Angelo; Liguori, Rocco; Donati, Maria Alice; Falconi, Serena; Pracucci, Giovanni; Inzitari, Domenico

2015-11-01

Cerebrovascular complications are often the first cause of hospitalization in patients with Fabry disease (FD). Screenings for FD among stroke patients have yielded discrepant results, likely as a result of heterogeneous or incomplete assessment. We designed a study to identify FD among adults 60 years of age or younger who were consecutively admitted for acute ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) to a stroke neurology service in Italy. Patients with first-ever or recurrent events were included, irrespective of gender, risk factors, or stroke type. We screened male patients using α-galactosidase A enzyme assay, and female patients using DNA sequencing. FD was eventually established after a broad multidisciplinary discussion. We screened 108 patients (61% males, median age: 48 years); 84% of these patients had stroke. De novo FD diagnosis was established in 3 patients (2.8%; 95% confidence interval, .57-8.18): a 59-year-old man with recurrent lacunar-like strokes and multiple risk factors; a 42-year-old woman with recurrent cryptogenic minor strokes; and a 32-year-old woman with recurrent strokes previously attributed to Behçet's disease. Screened patients were systematically asked for typical FD symptoms; each of the de novo patients reported one or more of the following: episodes of hand/foot pain during fever, angiokeratoma, and family history of heart disease. In all of the patients events were recurrent, and lacunar-like infarcts characterized their brain imaging. Prevalence of FD among nonselected adults 60 years of age or younger with acute ischemic stroke or TIA is not negligible. A systematic search for FD in a stroke setting, using a comprehensive clinical, biochemical, and genetic screening protocol, may be worthwhile. Copyright © 2015 National Stroke Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Impact of Eating Attitude and Impairment of Physical Quality of Life Between Tertiary Clinic and Primary Clinic Functional Dyspepsia Outpatients in Japan

PubMed Central

Shimpuku, Mayumi; Futagami, Seiji; Tajima, Natsuki; Yamawaki, Hiroshi; Maruki, Yuuta; Kodaka, Yasuhiro; Nagoya, Hiroyuki; Gudis, Katya; Kawagoe, Tetsuro; Sakamoto, Choitsu

2014-01-01

Background/Aims There is no available data on factors associated with healthcare-seeking behavior for functional dyspepsia (FD) symptoms at either tertiary or primary clinics in Japan. Therefore, we aimed to compare clinical symptoms and life styles such as sleep disorders and eating attitude in FD patients visiting general practitioners at primary clinics with those consulting gastroenterologists at tertiary clinics to clarify healthcare-seeking patterns in Japanese patients. Methods Fifty-one FD outpatients in a tertiary clinic (college hospital), 50 FD outpatients visiting primary clinics and 50 healthy volunteers were enrolled. Clinical symptoms, quality of life, sleep disorders, eating attitude and anxiety were estimated using the Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale (GSRS), Social Functioning-8 (SF-8) test, Pittsburg Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) test and State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) for FD outpatients and healthy volunteers. Results FD outpatients exhibited higher mean scores of GSRS than healthy volunteers. The SF-8 physical component summary scores in the tertiary clinic group were significantly lower than those in the primary clinic group. GSRS scores were significantly (P < 0.001, P = 0.002) associated with global PSQI scores in FD outpatients as well as with STAI-trait scores (P = 0.006, P = 0.001) compared to healthy volunteers. The frequency of eating between meals in the primary clinic group was significantly (P < 0.05) higher than that in the tertiary clinic group. Conclusions It may be important for clarification of healthcare-seeking behavior to determine the difference in both impairment of physical quality of life and eating attitudes between tertiary clinic and primary clinic FD outpatients in Japan. PMID:25273121

Relationship between the use of full dentures and mucosal alterations among elderly Brazilians.

PubMed

Freitas, J B; Gomez, R S; De Abreu, M H N G; Ferreira E Ferreira, E

2008-05-01

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the prevalence of oral mucosal lesions associated with the use of full dentures (FD) among non-institutionalized individuals of 60 or more years of age in a rural Brazilian population. The sample consisted of 344 individuals aged 60 or more from two rural communities of Brazil. Of this total, 146 were FD users and 198 FD, non-users. Angular cheilitis, denture stomatitis and inflammatory fibrous hyperplasia were statistically associated with prosthesis use. Hygiene and integrity of the prosthesis were related to the presence of oral lesions. While inflammatory fibrous hyperplasia was positively related to FD integrity, denture stomatitis was associated with time of use, hygiene status and integrity of FD. The results indicate the need for oral health care programmes for the elderly and show a relationship between time of use, quality and hygiene of oral prostheses with the presence of mucosal lesions.

Telescope Array Low energy Extension: TALE

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ogio, Shoichi

TALE, the Telescope Array Low Energy extension was designed to lower the energy threshold to about 1016.5 eV. TALE has a surface detector (SD) array made up of 103 scintillation counters (40 with 400 m spacing, 36 with 600 m spacing and 27 with 1.2 km spacing) and a Fluorescence Detector (FD) station consisting of ten FD telescopes working with the Telescope Array Middle Drum FD station, which is made up of 14 telescopes. TALE-FD full operation started in 2013 and the SD array was partially-completed with 16 SDs and continues the operation from 2014. We will describe the history and the current status of the detectors and will make a brief report about the FD and the hybrid analysis results. TALE detector will be completed as a hybrid air shower detector in 2018. We will report the technical details of the detectors, the schedule and the expected performances.

Common-path Fourier domain optical coherence tomography of irradiated human skin and ventilated isolated rabbit lungs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Popp, A.; Wendel, M.; Knels, L.; Knuschke, P.; Mehner, M.; Koch, T.; Boller, D.; Koch, P.; Koch, E.

2005-08-01

A compact common path Fourier domain optical coherence tomography (FD-OCT) system based on a broadband superluminescence diode is used for biomedical imaging. The epidermal thickening of human skin after exposure to ultraviolet radiation is measured to proof the feasibility of FD-OCT for future substitution of invasive biopsies in a long term study on natural UV skin protection. The FD-OCT system is also used for imaging lung parenchyma. FD-OCT images of a formalin fixated lung show the same alveolar structure as scanning electron microscopy images. In the ventilated and blood-free perfused isolated rabbit lung FD-OCT is used for real-time cross-sectional image capture of alveolar mechanics throughout tidal ventilation. The alveolar mechanics changing from alternating recruitment-derecruitment at zero positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) to persistent recruitment after applying a PEEP of 5 cm H2O is observed in the OCT images.

the role of shock waves in modulation of galactic cosmic rays

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gall, R.; Thomas, B. T.; Durand, H.

1985-01-01

The understanding of modulation of the galactic cosmic rays has considerably progressed by the exploration by space probes of major heliospheric structures, such as the Corotating Interaction Regions, the neutral sheet, and the compression regions of intense heliospheric magnetic fields. Also relevant in this context were the detections in the outer heliosphere of long lasting Forbush type decreases of cosmic ray intensity. The results of recent theoretical studies on the changes in intensity and energy, at different location from the Sun, induced by the passage of shocks across the heliosphere are presented. In this version of the research, the simplest cases of modulation of uGV and 2GV particles by single or several shocks during periods of positive and negative solar field polarity are reviewed. The results of the theoretical aspects of the search is reported. The comparison of the theoretical predictions with space probe data allows conclusions to be drawn on the role of shocks on the modulation on both the 11 and 22 year galactic cosmic ray cycles in the outer heliosphere and on the plausibility of the models and parameters used.

The Distance to the Heliospheric VLF Emission Region

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

McNutt, R. L., Jr.; Lazarus, A. J.; Belcher, J. W.; Lyon, J.; Goodrich, C. C.; Kulkarni, R.

1995-01-01

Two major episodes of heliospheric VLF emissions near 3 kHz have been observed by the Voyager spacecraft in 1983-1984 and 1992-1993. This higher-frequency component is apparently triggered by solar wind transients with sufficiently large spatial extents and energies to continue to propagate as shocks in the heliosheath. Entrainment of previously unshocked material and changed flow conditions in the heliosheath both tend to slow the shock propagation. The shock evolution is not self-similar. Rather, it is intermediate to two blast-wave similarity solutions in the moving solar wind frame. In one solution the shock moves as time to the 2/3 power and in the other as time to the 4/5 power. Using these models, the shock/Forbush decrease observed at Voyager 2 in September, 1991 and the turn-on of the 1992 emission is consistent with an emission region distance of approx. 130 AU (assuming no additional slowing of the shock in the heliosheath). If the termination shock was at approx. 70 AU when the transient shock collided with it, the true distance to the source region was probably closer to approx. 115 AU.

The distance to the heliospheric VLF emission region

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mcnutt, R. L., Jr.; Lazarus, A. J.; Belcher, J. W.; Lyon, J.; Goodrich, C. C.; Kulkarni, R.

1995-01-01

Two major episodes of heliospheric VLF emissions near 3 kHz have been observed by the Voyager spacecraft in 1983/84 and 1992/3. This higher-frequency component is apparently triggered by solar wind transients with sufficiently large spatial extents and energies to continue to propagate as shocks in the heliosheath. Entrainment of previously unshocked material and changed flow conditions in the heliosheath both tend to slow the shock propagation. The shock evolution is not self-similar. Rather, it is intermediate to two blast-wave similarity solutions in the moving solar wind frame. In one solution the shock moves as time to the 2/3 power and in the other as time to the 4/5 power. Using these models, the shock/Forbush decrease observed at Voyager 2 in September, 1991 and the turn-on of the 1992 emission is consistent with an emission region distance of approximately 130 AU (assuming no additional slowing of the shock in the heliosheath). If the termination shock was at approximately 70 AU when the transient shock collided with it, the true distance to the source region was probably closer to approximately 115 AU.

Dose Effect of Cosmic Rays in Aircraft at SPE in Fall of 2003

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fujitaka, K.; Uchihori, Y.; Kitamura, H.; Nojima, K.; Takada, M.; Yasuda, N.; Okano, M.

A large solar flare occurred in October 28, 2003, which caused a sensation around the world. Our group decided to measure the aviation dose promptly and started the survey within two days. Measurements have been conducted in Oct.30-Oct.30, Oct.30*-Nov.11*, Oct. 31-Oct.31, Oct.31*-Nov.3*, Nov.3-Nov.3, Nov.5-Nov.5, Nov.5*-Nov.7*, and Nov.6-Nov.6. Here, days with asterisks represent Tokyo to JFK (and vice versa) airport, while others represent Tokyo from/to Sapporo. Unfortunately, the measurement met the flare only once (Nov.3), but the dose was suppressed considerably in the nearby date, and a typical Forbush decrease is seen (Oct.31). While the dose measured in the Tokyo/JFK flight (Oct.31) varied largely, we cannot infer the net dose contribution from the flare. That is because any small variation of the dose tends to be masked by other large one. In short, we do not have to worry about effect of solar activity on board airplane in the present case.

21 CFR 74.1102 - FD&C Blue No. 2.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Drugs § 74.1102 FD&C Blue No. 2. (a) Identity. (1) The color additive FD&C Blue No. 2 shall conform in identity to the requirements of § 74.102(a)(1). (2) Color additive... suitable and that are listed in part 73 of this chapter as safe for use in color additive mixtures for...

21 CFR 74.1102 - FD&C Blue No. 2.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 1 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false FD&C Blue No. 2. 74.1102 Section 74.1102 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES GENERAL LISTING OF COLOR... coloring drugs. (b) The color additive FD&C Blue No. 2 for use in coloring ingested drugs shall conform to...

21 CFR 74.2304 - FD&C Red No. 4.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 1 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false FD&C Red No. 4. 74.2304 Section 74.2304 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES GENERAL LISTING OF COLOR....1304(a)(1) and (b). (b) Uses and restrictions. FD&C Red No. 4 may be safely used for coloring...

Study Centres: Key to Success of Field Dependent Learners in Africa.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wilson, Charles D.

The literature indicates that Field Independent (FI) learners are more likely than Field Dependent (FD) learners to succeed at distance education. The question can be raised: How can distance education serve people in the developing world--most of whom are probably FD? It is the author's opinion that in order for FD learners to succeed at distance…

76 FR 60055 - Draft Guidance for Industry: Applications for Premarket Review of New Tobacco Products...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-09-28

... Tobacco Control Act amends the FD&C Act and grants FDA authority to regulate the manufacture, marketing... (PMTA) under section 910(b) of the FD&C Act and receive a marketing authorization order under section 910(c)(1)(A)(i) of the FD&C Act prior to marketing the product. The draft guidance is intended to...

Variations on the "Blue-Bottle" Demonstration Using Food Items That Contain FD&C Blue #1

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Staiger, Felicia A.; Peterson, Joshua P.; Campbell, Dean J.

2015-01-01

Erioglaucine dye (FD&C Blue #1) can be used instead of methylene blue in the classic "blue-bottle" demonstration. Food items containing FD&C Blue #1 and reducing species such as sugars can therefore be used at the heart of this demonstration, which simply requires the addition of strong base such as sodium hydroxide lye.

Expression in Escherichia coli and characterization of a recombinant 7Fe ferredoxin of Rhodobacter capsulatus.

PubMed Central

Jouanneau, Y; Duport, C; Meyer, C; Gaillard, J

1992-01-01

The 7Fe ferredoxin of Rhodobacter capsulatus (FdII) could be expressed in Escherichia coli by cloning the fdxA gene coding for FdII downstream from the lac promoter. The expressed recombinant ferredoxin appeared as a brown protein which was specifically recognized in E. coli cell-free extracts by anti-FdII serum. The purified recombinant ferredoxin was indistinguishable from R. capsulatus FdII on the basis of its molecular, redox and spectroscopic properties. These results indicate that the [3Fe-4S] and [4Fe-4S] clusters were correctly inserted into the recombinant ferredoxin. Images Fig. 2. PMID:1325780

Importance of contraction history on muscle force of porcine urinary bladder smooth muscle.

PubMed

Menzel, Robin; Böl, Markus; Siebert, Tobias

2017-02-01

The purpose of this study was to provide a comprehensive dataset of porcine urinary bladder smooth muscle properties. Particularly, the history dependence of force production, namely force depression (FD) following shortening and force enhancement (FE) following stretch, was analysed. During active micturition, the circumference of the urinary bladder changes enormously. Thus, FD might be an important phenomenon during smooth muscle contraction. Electrically stimulated, intact urinary bladder strips from pigs (n = 10) were suspended in an aerated-filled organ bath, and different isometric, isotonic, and isokinetic contraction protocols were performed to determine the force-length and the force-velocity relation. FD and FE were assessed in concentric and eccentric contractions with different ramp lengths and ramp velocities. Bladder smooth muscles exhibit considerable amounts of FD and FE. The amount of FD increased significantly with ramp length, while FE did not change. However, FE and FD were independent of ramp velocity. The results imply that smooth muscle bladder strips exhibit similar muscle properties and history-dependent behaviour compared to striated muscles. The provided dataset of muscle properties is important for bladder modelling as well as for the analyses and interpretation of dynamic bladder filling and voiding.

Does football cause an increase in degenerative disease of the lumbar spine?

PubMed

Gerbino, Peter G; d'Hemecourt, Pierre A

2002-02-01

Degenerative disease of the lumbar spine is exceedingly common. Whether any specific activity increases the likelihood of developing degenerative disc disease (DDD) or facet degeneration (FD) has enormous implications. Within the field of occupational medicine there are specific activities, occupations, and morphologic characteristics that have been related to low back pain. Several specific risk factors have been conclusively linked to low back pain, and in particular DDD and FD. Within the sport of American football, there has long been the feeling that many athletes have or will develop low back pain, DDD, and FD. Proving that certain risk factors present in football will predictably lead to an increase in LBP, DDD, and FD is more difficult. At this time, it can be said that football players, in general, increase their risk of developing low back pain, DDD, and FD as their years of involvement with their sport increase. Because specific spine injuries like fracture, disc herniation, and spondylolysis are more frequent in football players, the resulting DDD and FD are greater than that of the general population. The weightlifting and violent hyperextension that are part of American football are independent risk factors for degenerative spine disease.

Functional-diversity indices can be driven by methodological choices and species richness.

PubMed

Poos, Mark S; Walker, Steven C; Jackson, Donald A

2009-02-01

Functional diversity is an important concept in community ecology because it captures information on functional traits absent in measures of species diversity. One popular method of measuring functional diversity is the dendrogram-based method, FD. To calculate FD, a variety of methodological choices are required, and it has been debated about whether biological conclusions are sensitive to such choices. We studied the probability that conclusions regarding FD were sensitive, and that patterns in sensitivity were related to alpha and beta components of species richness. We developed a randomization procedure that iteratively calculated FD by assigning species into two assemblages and calculating the probability that the community with higher FD varied across methods. We found evidence of sensitivity in all five communities we examined, ranging from a probability of sensitivity of 0 (no sensitivity) to 0.976 (almost completely sensitive). Variations in these probabilities were driven by differences in alpha diversity between assemblages and not by beta diversity. Importantly, FD was most sensitive when it was most useful (i.e., when differences in alpha diversity were low). We demonstrate that trends in functional-diversity analyses can be largely driven by methodological choices or species richness, rather than functional trait information alone.

Matrine in association with FD-2 stimulates F508del-cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator activity in the presence of corrector VX809

PubMed Central

Marengo, Barbara; Speciale, Andrea; Senatore, Lisa; Garibaldi, Silvano; Musumeci, Francesca; Nieddu, Erika; Pollarolo, Benedetta; Pronzato, Maria Adelaide; Schenone, Silvia; Mazzei, Mauro; Domenicotti, Cinzia

2017-01-01

Cystic fibrosis is caused by mutations of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene, and the predominant mutation is termed Phe508del (F508del). Therapy for F508del-CFTR patients is based on the use of Orkambi®, a combination of VX809 and VX770. However, though Orkambi leads to an improvement in the lung function of patients, a progressive reduction in its efficacy has been observed. In order to overcome this effect, the aim of the present study was to investigate the role of matrine and the in-house compound FD-2 in increasing the action of VX809 and VX770. Fischer rat thyroid cells overexpressing F508del-CFTR were treated with matrine, VX809 (corrector) and/or with a number of potentiators (VX770, FD-1 and FD-2). The results demonstrated that matrine was able to stimulate CFTR activity and, in association with FD-2, increased the functionality of the channel in the presence of VX809. Based on these results, it may be hypothesized that FD-2 may be a novel and more effective potentiator compared with VX770. PMID:29039559

Opportunities for Fluid Dynamics Research in the Forensic Discipline of Bloodstain Pattern Analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Attinger, Daniel; Moore, Craig; Donaldson, Adam; Jafari, Arian; Stone, Howard

2013-11-01

This review [Forensic Science International, vol. 231, pp. 375-396, 2013] highlights research opportunities for fluid dynamics (FD) studies related to the forensic discipline of bloodstain pattern analysis (BPA). The need for better integrating FD and BPA is mentioned in a 2009 report by the US National Research Council, entitled ``Strengthening Forensic Science in the United States: A Path Forward''. BPA aims for practical answers to specific questions of the kind: ``How did a bloodletting incident happen?'' FD, on the other hand, aims to quantitatively describe the transport of fluids and the related causes, with general equations. BPA typically solves the indirect problem of inspecting stains in a crime scene to infer the most probable bloodletting incident that produced these patterns. FD typically defines the initial and boundary conditions of a fluid system and from there describe how the system evolves in time and space, most often in a deterministic manner. We review four topics in BPA with strong connections to FD: the generation of drops, their flight, their impact and the formation of stains. Future research on these topics would deliver new quantitative tools and methods for BPA, and present new multiphase flow problems for FD.

Epidermal psoriasiform hyperplasia, an unrecognized sign of folliculitis decalvans: A histological study of 26 patients.

PubMed

Matard, Bruno; Cavelier-Balloy, Benedicte; Reygagne, Pascal

2017-04-01

Follicular hyperkeratosis along with hyperplasia of the follicular and interfollicular epithelia are major histopathological characteristics of hidradenitis suppurativa (HS). The presence of an occasional thickening of lesional skin in some folliculitis decalvans (FD) patients and histological similarities between FD and HS led us to look for epidermal hyperplasia and follicular hyperkeratosis in FD patients. We performed a retrospective histological analysis of 26 patients with FD. We sought to find out whether the presence of hyperplasia of the interfollicular epidermis and of the follicular epithelia could be verified in FD, with reference to the work of von Laffert et al. concerning HS. The main quantitative and qualitative data were: follicular hyperkeratosis (77%), hyperplasia of the interfollicular epidermis (92%) with a psoriasiform aspect (88%), atrophy of the follicular epithelia (85%), plasma cells in infiltrate (92%) in large quantities (42%), follicular microcysts (60%), atrophy of the sebaceous glands (85%) and polytrichia (54%). Epidermal hyperplasia, sometimes psoriasiform and follicular microcysts, are significant histological signs of FD, which have been ignored until now although they seem very common. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Fluorescein diacetate for determination of cell viability in 3D fibroblast-collagen-GAG constructs.

PubMed

Powell, Heather M; Armour, Alexis D; Boyce, Steven T

2011-01-01

Quantification of cell viability and distribution within engineered tissues currently relies on representative histology, phenotypic assays, and destructive assays of viability. To evaluate uniformity of cell density throughout 3D collagen scaffolds prior to in vivo use, a nondestructive, field assessment of cell viability is advantageous. Here, we describe a field measure of cell viability in lyophilized collagen-glycosaminoglycan (C-GAG) scaffolds in vitro using fluorescein diacetate (FdA). Fibroblast-C-GAG constructs are stained 1 day after cellular inoculation using 0.04 mg/ml FdA followed by exposure to 366 nm UV light. Construct fluorescence quantified using Metamorph image analysis is correlated with inoculation density, MTT values, and histology of corresponding biopsies. Construct fluorescence correlates significantly with inoculation density (p  <  0.001) and MTT values (p  <  0.001) of biopsies collected immediately after FdA staining. No toxicity is detected in the constructs, as measured by MTT assay before and after the FdA assay at different time points; normal in vitro histology is demonstrated for the FdA-exposed constructs. In conclusion, measurement of intracellular fluorescence with FdA allows for the early, comprehensive measurement of cellular distributions and viability in engineered tissue.

Psychoemotional Features of a Doubtful Disorder: Functional Dyspepsia

PubMed Central

Dragos, D; Ionescu, O; Micut, R; Ojog, DG; Tanasescu, MD

2012-01-01

Objective. To delineate the psychological profile of individuals prone to FD-like symptoms (FDLS). Method. A triple questionnaire of 614 items (including psychological and medical ones) was given to 10192 respondents, the results were analyzed by means of Cronbach alpha, and Chi square test, together with an ad-hoc designed method that implied ranking and outliers detecting. Results and conclusions. FDLS appears to be an accompanying feature of many (if not most) human emotions and are more frequent in anxious, timid, pessimistic, discontent, irascible, tense, success-doubting, unexpected-dreading individuals, bothered by persistent thoughts and tormented by the professional requirements and the lack of time. A higher degree of specificity might have: chiefly fear of failure, susceptibility, and tension, secondarily emotivity, fear of unpredictable events, sense of insufficient time, preoccupation with authority factors, and tendency to endure unacceptable situations, and also faulty patience and lack of punctuality. Rumination appears to be the psychological tendency most strongly associated with FD. Nocturnal epigastric pain seems to indicate a submissive nature but a rather responsibilities-free childhood, while early satiety is associated with inclination to work and responsibility and preoccupation with self-image. The superposition of FD symptoms with biliary and esophageal symptoms cast a doubt over the distinctness and even the materiality of the various functional digestive disorders. Abbreviations: ChiSq = chi-square; CrA = Cronbach alpha; OdRa = odds ratio; OdRaCL = OdRa confidence limits; E = exponential (for the sake of legibility we have used the exponential notation throughout this article; i.e. 4E-28 = 4×10-28); ErrProb = probability of error; SS = statistically significant; SD = standard deviation; a / m = the calculations were done by taking into account the average/ maximal score; P / M = psychological / medical category; PaMm / PmMa / PmMm / PaMa = the calculations were done by taking into account the average score for the PsyCt and the maximal score for the MedCt / the maximal score for PsyCt and the average score for the MedCt / and the maximal score for both / and the average score for both; R = the calculations were done for the FD_res category. FD = functional dyspepsia; FD_res / FD_ext = restricted / extended variant of the group of FD items; FDCt = FD category; FDLS = FD-like symptoms; MedCt / MedIt = medical category / item; PsyCt / PsyIt = psychological category / item; PMID:23144666

Fourier domain optical coherence tomographic and auto-fluorescence findings in indeterminate choroidal melanocytic lesions.

PubMed

Singh, Arun D; Belfort, Rubens N; Sayanagi, Kaori; Kaiser, Peter K

2010-04-01

To compare detection rates of drusen and subretinal fluid by Fourier domain optical coherence tomography (FD OCT) and orange pigment by fundus autofluorescence (FAF) with ophthalmoscopy in indeterminate choroidal melanocytic lesions. In a consecutive case series of 38 patients with indeterminate choroidal melanocytic lesion that would have been categorised as a small tumour according to the size-based nomenclature used in the Collaborative Ocular Melanoma Study, each eye was submitted to ophthalmoscopic examination, FD OCT and FAF. The presence of drusen, subretinal fluid and orange pigment was recorded for each lesion by a single observer at the time of initial ophthalmoscopic evaluation and on fundus photographs. FD OCT and autofluorescence images were reviewed in all cases in a masked fashion. The ophthalmoscopic examination revealed drusen in 42%, subretinal fluid in 53% and orange pigment in 50% of patients. FD-OCT detected drusen in 45% and subretinal fluid in 58% of cases, and FAF detected orange pigment in 58% of cases. Based on the McNemar test, none of the differences were statistically significant at the 0.05 level. FD OCT and FAF complement clinical examination by verifying and documenting retinal and RPE changes associated with indeterminate choroidal melanocytic lesions. The detection rates by FD OCT and FAF of important qualitative prognostic factors appear to be equivalent to ophthalmoscopy by a trained observer. Once validated in a larger number of patients, FD OCT and FAF findings can be incorporated into diagnostic algorithms.

Distant stereoacuity in children with anisometropic amblyopia.

PubMed

Chung, Yeon Woong; Park, Shin Hae; Shin, Sun Young

2017-09-01

To characterize changes in distant stereoacuity using Frisby-Davis Distance test (FD2) and Distant Randot test (DR) during treatment for anisometropic amblyopia, to determine factors that influence posttreatment stereoacuity and to compare the two distant stereotests. Fifty-eight anisometropic amblyopic patients with an interocular difference of ≥1.00 diopter who achieved the visual acuity 20/20 following amblyopia treatment were retrospectively included. Stereoacuity using FD2 and DR for distant and Titmus test for near measurement were assessed and compared at the initial, intermediate, and final visit. Multivariate regression models were used to identify factors associated with initial and final stereoacuity. The two distant stereotests revealed a significant improvement in distant stereoacuity after successful amblyopia treatment. Distant stereoacuity using FD2 showed the greatest improvement during the follow up period. The number of nil scores was higher in DR than FD2 at each period. In multivariate analysis, better final stereoacuity was associated with better initial amblyopic eye acuity in both distant stereotests, but not in the Titmus test. Comparing the two distant stereotests, final stereoacuity using FD2 was associated with initial stereoacuity and was moderately related with the Titmus test at each period, but final stereoacuity using DR was not. Distant stereoacuity measured with both FD2 and DR showed significant improvement when the visual acuity of the amblyopic eye achieved 20/20. Changes in distant stereoacuity by FD2 and DR during the amblyopia treatment were somewhat different.

Continuous Cardiac Troponin I Release in Fabry Disease

PubMed Central

Schneider, Christian; Sieweke, Nicole; Franzen, Wolfgang; Gündüz, Dursun; Rolfs, Arndt

2014-01-01

Background Fabry disease (FD) is a rare lysosomal storage disorder also affecting the heart. The aims of this study were to determine the frequency of cardiac troponin I (cTNI) elevation, a sensitive parameter reflecting myocardial damage, in a smaller cohort of FD-patients, and to analyze whether persistent cTNI can be a suitable biomarker to assess cardiac dysfunction in FD. Methods cTNI values were determined at least twice per year in 14 FD-patients (6 males and 8 females) regularly followed-up in our centre. The data were related to other parameters of heart function including cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (cMRI). Results Three patients (21%) without specific vascular risk factors other than FD had persistent cTNI-elevations (range 0.05–0.71 ng/ml, normal: <0.01). cMRI disclosed late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) in all three individuals with cTNI values ≥0.01, while none of the 11 patients with cTNI <0.01 showed a pathological enhancement (p<0.01). Two subjects with increased cTNI-values underwent coronary angiography, excluding relevant stenoses. A myocardial biopsy performed in one during this procedure demonstrated substantial accumulation of globotriaosylceramide (Gb3) in cardiomyocytes. Conclusion Continuous cTNI elevation seems to occur in a substantial proportion of patients with FD. The high accordance with LGE, reflecting cardiac dysfunction, suggests that cTNI-elevation can be a useful laboratory parameter for assessing myocardial damage in FD. PMID:24626231

Impaired Inhibitory Force Feedback in Fixed Dystonia.

PubMed

Mugge, Winfred; Schouten, Alfred C; van Hilten, Jacobus J; van der Helm, Frans C T

2016-04-01

Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a multifactorial disorder associated with an aberrant host response to tissue injury. About 25% of CRPS patients suffer poorly understood involuntary sustained muscle contractions associated with dysfunctional reflexes that result in abnormal postures (fixed dystonia). A recent modeling study simulated fixed dystonia (FD) caused by aberrant force feedback. The current study aims to validate this hypothesis by experimentally recording the modulation of reflexive force feedback in patients with FD. CRPS patients with and without FD, patients with FD but without CRPS, as well as healthy controls participated in the experiment. Three task instructions and three perturbation characteristics were used to evoke a wide range of responses to force perturbations. During position tasks ("maintain posture"), healthy subjects as well as patients resisted the perturbations, becoming more stiff than when being relaxed (i.e., the relax task). Healthy subjects and CRPS patients without FD were both more compliant during force tasks ("maintain force") than during relax tasks, meaning they actively gave way to the imposed forces. Remarkably, the patients with FD failed to do so. A neuromuscular model was fitted to the experimental data to separate the distinct contributions of position, velocity and force feedback, as well as co-contraction to the motor behavior. The neuromuscular modeling indicated that inhibitory force feedback is deregulated in patients with FD, for both CRPS and non-CRPS patients. From previously published simulation results and the present experimental study, it is concluded that aberrant force feedback plays a role in fixed dystonia.

Heterogeneity of Glucose Metabolism in Esophageal Cancer Measured by Fractal Analysis of Fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography Image: Correlation between Metabolic Heterogeneity and Survival.

PubMed

Tochigi, Toru; Shuto, Kiyohiko; Kono, Tsuguaki; Ohira, Gaku; Tohma, Takayuki; Gunji, Hisashi; Hayano, Koichi; Narushima, Kazuo; Fujishiro, Takeshi; Hanaoka, Toshiharu; Akutsu, Yasunori; Okazumi, Shinichi; Matsubara, Hisahiro

2017-01-01

Intratumoral heterogeneity is a well-recognized characteristic feature of cancer. The purpose of this study is to assess the heterogeneity of the intratumoral glucose metabolism using fractal analysis, and evaluate its prognostic value in patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (FDG-PET) studies of 79 patients who received curative surgery were evaluated. FDG-PET images were analyzed using fractal analysis software, where differential box-counting method was employed to calculate the fractal dimension (FD) of the tumor lesion. Maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax) and FD were compared with overall survival (OS). The median SUVmax and FD of ESCCs in this cohort were 13.8 and 1.95, respectively. In univariate analysis performed using Cox's proportional hazard model, T stage and FD showed significant associations with OS (p = 0.04, p < 0.0001, respectively), while SUVmax did not (p = 0.1). In Kaplan-Meier analysis, the low FD tumor (<1.95) showed a significant association with favorable OS (p < 0.0001). In wthe multivariate analysis among TNM staging, serum tumor markers, FD, and SUVmax, the FD was identified as the only independent prognostic factor for OS (p = 0.0006; hazards ratio 0.251, 95% CI 0.104-0.562). Metabolic heterogeneity measured by fractal analysis can be a novel imaging biomarker for survival in patients with ESCC. © 2016 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Doppler imaging with dual-detection full-range frequency domain optical coherence tomography

PubMed Central

Meemon, Panomsak; Lee, Kye-Sung; Rolland, Jannick P.

2010-01-01

Most of full-range techniques for Frequency Domain Optical Coherence Tomography (FD-OCT) reported to date utilize the phase relation between consecutive axial lines to reconstruct a complex interference signal and hence may exhibit degradation in either mirror image suppression performance or detectable velocity dynamic range or both when monitoring a moving sample such as flow activity. We have previously reported a technique of mirror image removal by simultaneous detection of the quadrature components of a complex spectral interference called a Dual-Detection Frequency Domain OCT (DD-FD-OCT) [Opt. Lett. 35, 1058-1060 (2010)]. The technique enables full range imaging without any loss of acquisition speed and is intrinsically less sensitive to phase errors generated by involuntary movements of the subject. In this paper, we demonstrate the application of the DD-FD-OCT to a phase-resolved Doppler imaging without degradation in either mirror image suppression performance or detectable velocity dynamic range that were observed in other full-range Doppler methods. In order to accommodate for Doppler imaging, we have developed a fiber-based DD-FD-OCT that more efficiently utilizes the source power compared with the previous free-space DD-FD-OCT. In addition, the velocity sensitivity of the phase-resolved DD-FD-OCT was investigated, and the relation between the measured Doppler phase shift and set flow velocity of a flow phantom was verified. Finally, we demonstrate the Doppler imaging using the DD-FD-OCT in a biological sample. PMID:21258488

[Comparison of red edge parameters of winter wheat canopy under late frost stress].

PubMed

Wu, Yong-feng; Hu, Xin; Lü, Guo-hua; Ren, De-chao; Jiang, Wei-guo; Song, Ji-qing

2014-08-01

In the present study, late frost experiments were implemented under a range of subfreezing temperatures (-1 - -9 degrees C) by using a field movable climate chamber (FMCC) and a cold climate chamber, respectively. Based on the spectra of winter wheat canopy measured at noon on the first day after the frost experiments, red edge parameters REP, Dr, SDr, Dr(min), Dr/Dr(min) and Dr/SDr were extracted using maximum first derivative spectrum method (FD), linear four-point interpolation method (FPI), polynomial fitting method (POLY), inverted Gaussian fitting method (IG) and linear extrapolation technique (LE), respectively. The capacity of the red edge parameters to detect late frost stress was explicated from the aspects of the early, sensitivity and stability through correlation analysis, linear regression modeling and fluctuation analysis. The result indicates that except for REP calculated from FPI and IG method in Experiment 1, REP from the other methods was correlated with frost temperatures (P < 0.05). Thereinto, significant levels (P) of POLY and LE methods all reached 0.01. Except for POLY method in Experiment 2, Dr/SDr from the other methods were all significantly correlated with frost temperatures (P < 0.01). REP showed a trend to shift to short-wave band with decreasing temperatures. The lower the temperature, the more obvious the trend is. Of all the REP, REP calculated by LE method had the highest correlation with frost temperatures which indicated that LE method is the best for REP extraction. In Experiment 1 and 2, only Dr(min) and Dr/Dr(min), calculated by FD method simultaneously achieved the requirements for the early (their correlations with frost temperatures showed a significant level P < 0.01), sensitivity (abso- lute value of the slope of fluctuation coefficient is greater than 2.0) and stability (their correlations with frost temperatures al- ways keep a consistent direction). Dr/SDr calculated from FD and IG methods always had a low sensitivity in Experiment 2. In Experiment 1, the sensitivity of Dr/SDr from FD was moderate and IG was high. REP calculated from LE method had a lowest sensitivity in the two experiments. Totally, Dr(min) and Dr/Dr(min) calculated by FD method have the strongest detection capacity for frost temperature, which will be helpful to conducting the research on early diagnosis of late frost injury to winter wheat.

In vivo real-time monitoring system of electroporation mediated control of transdermal and topical drug delivery.

PubMed

Blagus, Tanja; Markelc, Bostjan; Cemazar, Maja; Kosjek, Tina; Preat, Veronique; Miklavcic, Damijan; Sersa, Gregor

2013-12-28

Electroporation (EP) is a physical method for the delivery of molecules into cells and tissues, including the skin. In this study, in order to control the degree of transdermal and topical drug delivery, EP at different amplitudes of electric pulses was evaluated. A new in vivo real-time monitoring system based on fluorescently labeled molecules was developed, for the quantification of transdermal and topical drug delivery. EP of the mouse skin was performed with new non-invasive multi-array electrodes, delivering different amplitudes of electric pulses ranging from 70 to 570 V, between the electrode pin pairs. Patches, soaked with 4 kDa fluorescein-isothiocyanate labeled dextran (FD), doxorubicin (DOX) or fentanyl (FEN), were applied to the skin before and after EP. The new monitoring system was developed based on the delivery of FD to and through the skin. FD relative quantity was determined with fluorescence microscopy imaging, in the treated region of the skin for topical delivery and in a segment of the mouse tail for transdermal delivery. The application of electric pulses for FD delivery resulted in enhanced transdermal delivery. Depending on the amplitude of electric pulses, it increased up to the amplitude of 360 V, and decreased at higher amplitudes (460 and 570 V). Topical delivery steadily enhanced with increasing the amplitude of the delivered electric pulses, being even higher than after tape stripping used as a positive control. The non-invasive monitoring of the delivery of DOX, a fluorescent chemotherapeutic drug, qualitatively and quantitatively confirmed the effects of EP at 360 and 570 V pulse amplitudes on topical and transdermal drug delivery. Delivery of FEN at 360 and 570 V pulse amplitudes verified the observed effects as obtained with FD and DOX, by the measured physiological responses of the mice as well as FEN plasma concentration. This study demonstrates that with the newly developed non-invasive multi-array electrodes and with the varying electric pulse amplitude, the amount of topical and transdermal drug delivery to the skin can be controlled. Furthermore, the newly developed monitoring system provides a tool for rapid real-time determination of both, transdermal and topical delivery, when the delivered molecule is fluorescent. © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Effect of Dental Status on Changes in Mastication in Patients with Obesity following Bariatric Surgery

PubMed Central

Godlewski, Anne Espérance; Veyrune, Jean Luc; Nicolas, Emmanuel; Ciangura, Cécile A.; Chaussain, Catherine C.; Czernichow, Sébastien; Basdevant, Arnaud; Hennequin, Martine

2011-01-01

Background Patients scheduled for bariatric surgery (BS) are encouraged to chew slowly in order to optimise the digestion process. The influence of dental status on patients' ability to comply with advice on chewing behaviour is poorly documented. This study aims to compare modifications of chewing function before and after BS in three groups of obese patients differing in dental status. Method and Findings A cohort of 46 obese women provided three groups: FD group: fully dentate (7–10 functional dental units [FU]); PD group: partially dentate (4–6 FU) without partial dentures; DW group: partial and complete denture wearers. Chewing time (CT), number of chewing cycles (CC), and chewing frequency (CF) were measured before and after surgery during mastication of standardised samples of raw carrot, peanuts, banana, apple and jelly. The median particle-size distribution (D50) of the pre-swallowed bolus was also evaluated for peanut and carrot. Before surgery, the PD and DW groups exhibited greater mean CCs and CTs than the FD group (SNK p<0.05) and produced a bolus with higher granulometry (SNK, p<0.05) than the FD group. After surgery, CT and CC increased for all groups and for all foods, but not statistically significant for jelly. The resulting changes in bolus granulometry observed depended on both food and dental status. The granulometry of carrot bolus remained as fine or as coarse in FD and DW groups respectively as it was before surgery while it was significantly decreased in the PD group (Student's test, p<0.001). Conclusions After bariatric surgery, all the obese patients, regardless of dental status modified their chewing kinematics. The effects of this chewing behaviour on bolus granulometry depended on dental status and type of food. Further studies are needed to understand better the impact of dental status on feeding behaviour and nutrition in patients with obesity. PMID:21799822

Maximum Oxygen Uptake During Long-Duration Space Flight: Preliminary Results

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Moore, A. D., Jr.; Evetts, S. N.; Feiveson, A.H.; Lee, S. M. C.; McCleary, F. A.; Platts, S. H.; Ploutz-Snyder, L.

2010-01-01

INTRODUCTION: Maximum oxygen uptake (VO2max) is maintained during space flight lasting <15 d, but has not been measured during long-duration missions. This abstract describes pre-flight and in-flight preliminary findings from the International Space Station (ISS) VO2max experiment. METHODS: Seven astronauts (4 M, 3 F: 47 +/- 5 yr, 174 +/- 7 cm, 74.1 +/- 14.7 kg [mean +/- SD]) performed cycle exercise tests to volitional maximum approx.45 d before flight and tests were scheduled every 30 d during flight beginning on flight day (FD) 14. Tests consisted of three 5-min stages designed to elicit 25%, 50%, and 75% of preflight VO2max, followed by 25 W/min increases. VO2 and heart rate (HR) were measured using the ISS Portable Pulmonary Function System (PPFS) (Damec, Odense, DK). Unfortunately the PPFS did not arrive at the ISS in time to support early test sessions for 3 crewmembers. Descriptive statistics are presented for pre-flight vs. late-flight (FD 147 +/- 33 d) comparisons for all subjects (n=7); and pre-flight, early (FD 18 +/- 3) and late-flight (FD 156 +/- 5) data are presented for subjects (n=4) who completed all of these test sessions. RESULTS: When all subjects are considered, average VO2max decreased from pre- to late in-flight (2.98 +/- 0.85 vs. 2.57 +/- 0.50 L/min) while maximum HR late-flight seemed unchanged (178 +/- 9 vs. 175 +/- 8 beats/min). Similarly, for subjects who completed pre-, early, and late flight measurements (n=4), mean VO2max declined from 3.19 +/- 0.75 L/min preflight to 2.43 +/- 0.43 and 2.62 +/- 0.38 L/min early and late-flight, respectively. Maximum HR was 183 +/- 8, 174 +/- 8, and 179 +/- 6 beats/min pre-, early- and late-flight. DISCUSSION: Average VO2max declined during flight and did not appreciably recover as flight duration increased; however much inter-subject variation occurred in these changes.

Psychological factors in patients with peptic ulcerand functional dyspepsia

PubMed Central

Faramarzi, Mahbobeh; Kheirkhah, Farzan; Shokri-Shirvani, Javad; Mosavi, Shokofeh; Zarini, Soroush

2014-01-01

Background: The role of psychological factors in peptic ulcer disease (PUD) and functional dyspepsia (FD) has not been clearly determined. In this study the role of conflict management styles, psychiatric symptoms, and alexithymia were assessed in patients with PUD and FD and in the healthy individuals. Methods: Ninety subjects [30 PUD (15 women, 15 men), 30 FD (15 women, 15 men), and 30 healthy individuals (15 women, 15 men)] in two endoscopy wards of Babol University of Medical Sciences were evaluated. Three groups were matched with regard to demographic variables. Conflict management styles, psychiatric symptoms, and alexithymia were evaluated by appropriate questionnaires. Results: The patients with PUD reported less mean scores on psychiatric symptoms than the FD patients (depression 12.6±7.5 vs 28±9.5, anxiety 8.2±5.9 vs 18.7±6. obsessive-compulsive disorder 15.7±7.5 vs 21.8±8.4, interpersonal sensitivity 9.5±7.4 vs 16±7, psychoticism 8.03±4.5 vs 14.3±6.3, somatization 12.5±10.8 vs 20.7±8.1, and the total score of psychiatric symptoms 94.4±49.9 vs 160.1±46.6). The mean scores use of unconstructive conflict management styles in PUD patients were lower than FD (dominating 17.7±3.5 vs 20.2±2.7, avoiding 17.5±3 vs 23.8±4.4). Alexithymia symptoms were higher in FD patients than PUD individuals (difficulty in identifying feelings 23.5±6.3 vs 27.8±3.9, difficulty in describing feeling 16.5±4.4 vs 17.3±3.6). The PUD and FD patients had higher scores regarding these variables than the healthy subjects. Conclusion: The results show that both PUD and FD patients experienced more psychiatric symptoms, unconstructive conflict management styles, and alexithymia than the healthy subjects. FD patients had worse psychiatric problems than PUD. PMID:24778780

Opposing Responses of Bird Functional Diversity to Vegetation Structural Diversity in Wet and Dry Forest.

PubMed

Sitters, Holly; York, Alan; Swan, Matthew; Christie, Fiona; Di Stefano, Julian

2016-01-01

Disturbance regimes are changing worldwide, and the consequences for ecosystem function and resilience are largely unknown. Functional diversity (FD) provides a surrogate measure of ecosystem function by capturing the range, abundance and distribution of trait values in a community. Enhanced understanding of the responses of FD to measures of vegetation structure at landscape scales is needed to guide conservation management. To address this knowledge gap, we used a whole-of-landscape sampling approach to examine relationships between bird FD, vegetation diversity and time since fire. We surveyed birds and measured vegetation at 36 landscape sampling units in dry and wet forest in southeast Australia during 2010 and 2011. Four uncorrelated indices of bird FD (richness, evenness, divergence and dispersion) were derived from six bird traits, and we investigated responses of these indices and species richness to both vertical and horizontal vegetation diversity using linear mixed models. We also considered the extent to which the mean and diversity of time since fire were related to vegetation diversity. Results showed opposing responses of FD to vegetation diversity in dry and wet forest. In dry forest, where fire is frequent, species richness and two FD indices (richness and dispersion) were positively related to vertical vegetation diversity, consistent with theory relating to environmental variation and coexistence. However, in wet forest subject to infrequent fire, the same three response variables were negatively associated with vertical diversity. We suggest that competitive dominance by species results in lower FD as vegetation diversity increases in wet forest. The responses of functional evenness were opposite to those of species richness, functional richness and dispersion in both forest types, highlighting the value of examining multiple FD metrics at management-relevant scales. The mean and diversity of time since fire were uncorrelated with vegetation diversity in wet forest, but positively correlated with vegetation diversity in dry forest. We therefore suggest that protection of older vegetation is important, but controlled application of low-severity fire in dry forest may sustain ecosystem function by enhancing different elements of FD.

Opposing Responses of Bird Functional Diversity to Vegetation Structural Diversity in Wet and Dry Forest

PubMed Central

York, Alan; Swan, Matthew; Christie, Fiona; Di Stefano, Julian

2016-01-01

Disturbance regimes are changing worldwide, and the consequences for ecosystem function and resilience are largely unknown. Functional diversity (FD) provides a surrogate measure of ecosystem function by capturing the range, abundance and distribution of trait values in a community. Enhanced understanding of the responses of FD to measures of vegetation structure at landscape scales is needed to guide conservation management. To address this knowledge gap, we used a whole-of-landscape sampling approach to examine relationships between bird FD, vegetation diversity and time since fire. We surveyed birds and measured vegetation at 36 landscape sampling units in dry and wet forest in southeast Australia during 2010 and 2011. Four uncorrelated indices of bird FD (richness, evenness, divergence and dispersion) were derived from six bird traits, and we investigated responses of these indices and species richness to both vertical and horizontal vegetation diversity using linear mixed models. We also considered the extent to which the mean and diversity of time since fire were related to vegetation diversity. Results showed opposing responses of FD to vegetation diversity in dry and wet forest. In dry forest, where fire is frequent, species richness and two FD indices (richness and dispersion) were positively related to vertical vegetation diversity, consistent with theory relating to environmental variation and coexistence. However, in wet forest subject to infrequent fire, the same three response variables were negatively associated with vertical diversity. We suggest that competitive dominance by species results in lower FD as vegetation diversity increases in wet forest. The responses of functional evenness were opposite to those of species richness, functional richness and dispersion in both forest types, highlighting the value of examining multiple FD metrics at management-relevant scales. The mean and diversity of time since fire were uncorrelated with vegetation diversity in wet forest, but positively correlated with vegetation diversity in dry forest. We therefore suggest that protection of older vegetation is important, but controlled application of low-severity fire in dry forest may sustain ecosystem function by enhancing different elements of FD. PMID:27741290

Influence of the time of day and fasting duration on glucose level following a 1-hour, 50-gram glucose challenge test in pregnant women.

PubMed

Wang, Panchalli; Lu, Mei-Chun; Yu, Cheng-Wei; Yan, Yuan-Horng

2014-01-01

Previous studies have shown that the time of day (TD) of glucose measurement and the fasting duration (FD) influence the glucose levels in adults. Few studies have examined the effects of the TD and FD on the glucose level following a 1-hour, 50-gram glucose challenge test (GCT) in pregnant women in screening for or diagnosing gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). The objective of this study was to investigate the influence of the TD (morning, afternoon, night) and the FD (the time of the last food ingestion as follows: ≤1 hour, 1-2 hours, and >2 hours) by examining their combined effects on the glucose levels following a 50-gram GCT in pregnant women. We analyzed the data of 1,454 non-diabetic pregnant Taiwanese women in a prospective study. Multiple linear regression and multiple logistic regression were used to estimate the relationships between the 9 TD-FD groups and the continuous and binary glucose levels (cut-off at 140 mg/dL) following a 50-gram GCT, after adjusting for maternal age, nulliparity, pre-pregnancy body mass index, and weight gain. Different TD and FD groups were associated with variable glucose responses to the 50-gram GCT, some of which were significant. The estimate coefficients (β) of the TD-FD groups "night, ≤1 hr" and "night, 1-2 hr" revealed significantly lower glucose concentrations [β (95% confidence interval [CI]): -6.46 (-12.53, -0.38) and -6.85 (-12.50, -1.20)] compared with the "morning, >2 hr" group. The TD-FD groups "afternoon, ≤1 hr" and "afternoon, 1-2 hr" showed significantly lower odds ratios (OR) of a positive GCT; the adjusted ORs (95% CI) were 0.54 (0.31-0.95) and 0.58 (0.35-0.96), respectively. Our findings demonstrate the importance of standardizing the TD and FD for the 1-hour, 50-gram GCT. In screening for and diagnosing GDM, the TD and FD are modifiable factors that should be considered in clinical practice and epidemiological studies.

Flavin-Based Electron Bifurcation, Ferredoxin, Flavodoxin, and Anaerobic Respiration With Protons (Ech) or NAD+ (Rnf) as Electron Acceptors: A Historical Review

PubMed Central

Buckel, Wolfgang; Thauer, Rudolf K.

2018-01-01

Flavin-based electron bifurcation is a newly discovered mechanism, by which a hydride electron pair from NAD(P)H, coenzyme F420H2, H2, or formate is split by flavoproteins into one-electron with a more negative reduction potential and one with a more positive reduction potential than that of the electron pair. Via this mechanism microorganisms generate low- potential electrons for the reduction of ferredoxins (Fd) and flavodoxins (Fld). The first example was described in 2008 when it was found that the butyryl-CoA dehydrogenase-electron-transferring flavoprotein complex (Bcd-EtfAB) of Clostridium kluyveri couples the endergonic reduction of ferredoxin (E0′ = −420 mV) with NADH (−320 mV) to the exergonic reduction of crotonyl-CoA to butyryl-CoA (−10 mV) with NADH. The discovery was followed by the finding of an electron-bifurcating Fd- and NAD-dependent [FeFe]-hydrogenase (HydABC) in Thermotoga maritima (2009), Fd-dependent transhydrogenase (NfnAB) in various bacteria and archaea (2010), Fd- and H2-dependent heterodisulfide reductase (MvhADG-HdrABC) in methanogenic archaea (2011), Fd- and NADH-dependent caffeyl-CoA reductase (CarCDE) in Acetobacterium woodii (2013), Fd- and NAD-dependent formate dehydrogenase (HylABC-FdhF2) in Clostridium acidi-urici (2013), Fd- and NADP-dependent [FeFe]-hydrogenase (HytA-E) in Clostridium autoethanogrenum (2013), Fd(?)- and NADH-dependent methylene-tetrahydrofolate reductase (MetFV-HdrABC-MvhD) in Moorella thermoacetica (2014), Fd- and NAD-dependent lactate dehydrogenase (LctBCD) in A. woodii (2015), Fd- and F420H2-dependent heterodisulfide reductase (HdrA2B2C2) in Methanosarcina acetivorans (2017), and Fd- and NADH-dependent ubiquinol reductase (FixABCX) in Azotobacter vinelandii (2017). The electron-bifurcating flavoprotein complexes known to date fall into four groups that have evolved independently, namely those containing EtfAB (CarED, LctCB, FixBA) with bound FAD, a NuoF homolog (HydB, HytB, or HylB) harboring FMN, NfnB with bound FAD, or HdrA harboring FAD. All these flavoproteins are cytoplasmic except for the membrane-associated protein FixABCX. The organisms—in which they have been found—are strictly anaerobic microorganisms except for the aerobe A. vinelandii. The electron-bifurcating complexes are involved in a variety of processes such as butyric acid fermentation, methanogenesis, acetogenesis, anaerobic lactate oxidation, dissimilatory sulfate reduction, anaerobic- dearomatization, nitrogen fixation, and CO2 fixation. They contribute to energy conservation via the energy-converting ferredoxin: NAD+ reductase complex Rnf or the energy-converting ferredoxin-dependent hydrogenase complex Ech. This Review describes how this mechanism was discovered. PMID:29593673

Financial Distress and Its Associations With Physical and Emotional Symptoms and Quality of Life Among Advanced Cancer Patients.

PubMed

Delgado-Guay, Marvin; Ferrer, Jeanette; Rieber, Alyssa G; Rhondali, Wadih; Tayjasanant, Supakarn; Ochoa, Jewel; Cantu, Hilda; Chisholm, Gary; Williams, Janet; Frisbee-Hume, Susan; Bruera, Eduardo

2015-09-01

There are limited data on the effects of financial distress (FD) on overall suffering and quality of life (QOL) of patients with advanced cancer (AdCa). In this cross-sectional study, we examined the frequency of FD and its correlates in AdCa. We interviewed 149 patients, 77 at a comprehensive cancer center (CCC) and 72 at a general public hospital (GPH). AdCa completed a self-rated FD (subjective experience of distress attributed to financial problems) numeric rating scale (0 = best, 10 = worst) and validated questionnaires assessing symptoms (Edmonton Symptom Assessment System [ESAS]), psychosocial distress (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale [HADS]), and QOL (Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-General [FACT-G]). The patients' median age was 60 years (95% confidence interval [CI]: 58.6-61.5 years); 74 (50%) were female; 48 of 77 at CCC (62%) versus 13 of 72 at GPH (18%) were white; 21 of 77 (27%) versus 32 of 72 (38%) at CCC and GPH, respectively, were black; and 7 of 77 (9%) versus 27 of 72 (38%) at CCC and GPH, respectively, were Hispanic (p < .0001). FD was present in 65 of 75 at CCC (86%; 95% CI: 76%-93%) versus 65 of 72 at GPH (90%; 95% CI: 81%-96%; p = .45). The median intensity of FD at CCC and GPH was 4 (interquartile range [IQR]: 1-7) versus 8 (IQR: 3-10), respectively (p = .0003). FD was reported as more severe than physical distress, distress about physical functioning, social/family distress, and emotional distress by 45 (30%), 46 (31%), 64 (43%), and 55 (37%) AdCa, respectively (all significantly worse for patients at GPH) (p < .05). AdCa reported that FD was affecting their general well-being (0 = not at all, 10 = very much) with a median score of 5 (IQR: 1-8). FD correlated (Spearman correlation) with FACT-G (r = -0.23, p = .0057); HADS-anxiety (r = .27, p = .0014), ESAS-anxiety (r = .2, p = .0151), and ESAS-depression (r = .18, p = .0336). FD was very frequent in both groups, but median intensity was double among GPH patients. More than 30% of AdCa rated FD to be more severe than physical, family, and emotional distress. More research is needed to better characterize FD and its correlates in AdCa and possible interventions. Financial distress is an important and common factor contributing to the suffering of advanced cancer patients and their caregivers. It should be suspected in patients with persistent, refractory symptom expression. Early identification, measurement, and documentation will allow clinical teams to develop interventions to improve financial distress and its impact on quality of life of advanced cancer patients. ©AlphaMed Press.

Agalsidase alfa versus agalsidase beta for the treatment of Fabry disease: an international cohort study.

PubMed

Arends, Maarten; Biegstraaten, Marieke; Wanner, Christoph; Sirrs, Sandra; Mehta, Atul; Elliott, Perry M; Oder, Daniel; Watkinson, Oliver T; Bichet, Daniel G; Khan, Aneal; Iwanochko, Mark; Vaz, Frédéric M; van Kuilenburg, André B P; West, Michael L; Hughes, Derralynn A; Hollak, Carla E M

2018-05-01

Two recombinant enzymes (agalsidase alfa 0.2 mg/kg/every other week and agalsidase beta 1.0 mg/kg/every other week) have been registered for the treatment of Fabry disease (FD), at equal high costs. An independent international initiative compared clinical and biochemical outcomes of the two enzymes. In this multicentre retrospective cohort study, clinical event rate, left ventricular mass index (LVMI), estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), antibody formation and globotriaosylsphingosine (lysoGb3) levels were compared between patients with FD treated with agalsidase alfa and beta at their registered dose after correction for phenotype and sex. 387 patients (192 women) were included, 248 patients received agalsidase alfa. Mean age at start of enzyme replacement therapy was 46 (±15) years. Propensity score matched analysis revealed a similar event rate for both enzymes (HR 0.96, P=0.87). The decrease in plasma lysoGb3 was more robust following treatment with agalsidase beta, specifically in men with classical FD (β: -18 nmol/L, P<0.001), persisting in the presence of antibodies. The risk to develop antibodies was higher for patients treated with agalsidase beta (OR 2.8, P=0.04). LVMI decreased in a higher proportion following the first year of agalsidase beta treatment (OR 2.27, P=0.03), while eGFR slopes were similar. Treatment with agalsidase beta at higher dose compared with agalsidase alfa does not result in a difference in clinical events, which occurred especially in those with more advanced disease. A greater biochemical response, also in the presence of antibodies, and better reduction in left ventricular mass was observed with agalsidase beta. © Article author(s) (or their employer(s) unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2018. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.

Numerical solution of the wave equation with variable wave speed on nonconforming domains by high-order difference potentials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Britt, S.; Tsynkov, S.; Turkel, E.

2018-02-01

We solve the wave equation with variable wave speed on nonconforming domains with fourth order accuracy in both space and time. This is accomplished using an implicit finite difference (FD) scheme for the wave equation and solving an elliptic (modified Helmholtz) equation at each time step with fourth order spatial accuracy by the method of difference potentials (MDP). High-order MDP utilizes compact FD schemes on regular structured grids to efficiently solve problems on nonconforming domains while maintaining the design convergence rate of the underlying FD scheme. Asymptotically, the computational complexity of high-order MDP scales the same as that for FD.

Safety Assessment of Two New Lactobacillus Strains as Probiotic for Human Using a Rat Model

PubMed Central

Shokryazdan, Parisa; Faseleh Jahromi, Mohammad; Liang, Juan Boo; Kalavathy, Ramasamy; Sieo, Chin Chin; Ho, Yin Wan

2016-01-01

Two previously isolated Lactobacillus strains (L. fermentum HM3 from human milk and L. buchneri FD2 from fermented dates), intended as probiotic for human, were assessed for their safety using acute and subacute oral toxicity tests in rats. In addition, their effects on cecal microflora and harmful bacterial enzymes (β-glucuronidase and β-glucosidase) of the tested animals were also determined. The results showed that L. buchneri FD2, L. fermentum HM3, or a mixture of them were safe up to a level of 1010 CFU/kg BW/day in a 14-day or 28-day treatment period. Both strains were well tolerated and there were no observed adverse effects on growth, feed consumption, cellular blood components and vital organs of the treated animals. The Lactobacillus strains were also able to reduce harmful intestinal bacterial enzymes, and decrease pathogenic bacterial populations while increasing beneficial bacterial populations. These results suggest that the two Lactobacillus strains are safe and could be potential probiotic for human. PMID:27467068

Safety Assessment of Two New Lactobacillus Strains as Probiotic for Human Using a Rat Model.

PubMed

Shokryazdan, Parisa; Faseleh Jahromi, Mohammad; Liang, Juan Boo; Kalavathy, Ramasamy; Sieo, Chin Chin; Ho, Yin Wan

2016-01-01

Two previously isolated Lactobacillus strains (L. fermentum HM3 from human milk and L. buchneri FD2 from fermented dates), intended as probiotic for human, were assessed for their safety using acute and subacute oral toxicity tests in rats. In addition, their effects on cecal microflora and harmful bacterial enzymes (β-glucuronidase and β-glucosidase) of the tested animals were also determined. The results showed that L. buchneri FD2, L. fermentum HM3, or a mixture of them were safe up to a level of 1010 CFU/kg BW/day in a 14-day or 28-day treatment period. Both strains were well tolerated and there were no observed adverse effects on growth, feed consumption, cellular blood components and vital organs of the treated animals. The Lactobacillus strains were also able to reduce harmful intestinal bacterial enzymes, and decrease pathogenic bacterial populations while increasing beneficial bacterial populations. These results suggest that the two Lactobacillus strains are safe and could be potential probiotic for human.

Aldioxa improves delayed gastric emptying and impaired gastric compliance, pathophysiologic mechanisms of functional dyspepsia

PubMed Central

Asano, Teita; Aida, Shuji; Suemasu, Shintaro; Tahara, Kayoko; Tanaka, Ken-ichiro; Mizushima, Tohru

2015-01-01

Delayed gastric emptying and impaired gastric accommodation (decreased gastric compliance) play important roles in functional dyspepsia (FD). Here we screen for a clinically used drug with an ability to improve delayed gastric emptying in rats. Oral administration of aldioxa (dihydroxyaluminum allantoinate) partially improved clonidine- or restraint stress-induced delayed gastric emptying. Administration of allantoin, but not aluminium hydroxide, restored the gastric emptying. Both aldioxa and allantoin inhibited clonidine binding to the α-2 adrenergic receptor, suggesting that antagonistic activity of the allantoin moiety of aldioxa on this receptor is involved in the restoration of gastric emptying activity. Aldioxa or aluminium hydroxide but not allantoin restored gastric compliance with restraint stress, suggesting that aluminium hydroxide moiety is involved in this restoration. We propose that aldioxa is a candidate drug for FD, because its safety in humans has already been confirmed and its ameliorating effect on both of delayed gastric emptying and impaired gastric compliance are confirmed here. PMID:26620883

NF-κB inhibitors that prevent foam cell formation and atherosclerotic plaque accumulation.

PubMed

Plotkin, Jesse D; Elias, Michael G; Dellinger, Anthony L; Kepley, Christopher L

2017-08-01

The transformation of monocyte-derived macrophages into lipid-laden foam cells is one inflammatory process underlying atherosclerotic disease. Previous studies have demonstrated that fullerene derivatives (FDs) have inflammation-blunting properties. Thus, it was hypothesized that FD could inhibit the transformation process underlying foam cell formation. Fullerene derivatives inhibited the phorbol myristic acid/oxidized low-density lipoprotein-induced differentiation of macrophages into foam cells as determined by lipid staining and morphology.Lipoprotein-induced generation of TNF-α, C5a-induced MC activation, ICAM-1 driven adhesion, and CD36 expression were significantly inhibited in FD treated cells compared to non-treated cells. Inhibition appeared to be mediated through the NF-κB pathway as FD reduced expression of NF-κB and atherosclerosis-associated genes. Compared to controls, FD dramatically inhibited plaque formation in arteries of apolipoprotein E null mice. Thus, FD may be an unrecognized therapy to prevent atherosclerotic lesions via inhibition of foam cell formation and MC stabilization. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Laughter is not always funny: breath-holding spells in familial dysautonomia.

PubMed

Maayan, Channa; Katz, Eliot; Begin, Michal; Yuvchev, Ivelin; Kharasch, Virginia S

2015-02-01

Familial dysautonomia (FD) is a genetic disease characterized by primary autonomic dysfunction including parasympathetic hypersensitivity. Breath-holding spells (BHS) are believed to be caused by autonomic dysregulation mediated via the vagus nerve and increased in patients with a family history of BHS. Details and understanding of its pathophysiology are lacking. In this retrospective study of patients with FD, the incidence of BHS was higher at 53.3%, compared with previous studies in normal children. Laughter as a precipitating factor for BHS has not been previously reported in FD and occurred in 10% of patients in this study. Lower lung volumes, chronic lung disease, chronic CO2 retention, and inadequate autonomic compensation occur in those with FD leading to a higher incidence and severity of BHS when crying or laughing. Thus, FD may be a good model for understanding manifestations of the autonomic nervous system dysfunction and contribute to our knowledge of BHS mechanisms. © The Author(s) 2014.

Effect of fluorodeoxyuridine on the sedimentation of nucleoids from HeLa cells in sucrose gradients.

PubMed

Synzynys, B I; Brozmanová, J; Saenko, A S

1987-01-01

Sedimentation properties of nucleoids from HeLa cells cultured for 6 or 24 h with 10(-6) M fluorodeoxyuridine (FdUrd) were studied in neutral sucrose gradients. Independently on the presence and concentrations of ethidium bromide in the gradient, nucleoids from FdUrd treated cells sedimented farther than those from untreated cells. However, the maximum relaxation of supercoiled DNA, observed at the concentration of 5 micrograms/ml of ethidium bromide, was significantly lower in cells treated with FdUrd, which indicated that prior incubation with FdUrd did not increase the degree of DNA supercoiling but altered by some way the conformation of DNA in nucleus. Previously we have found, that treatment of HeLa cells with FdUrd resulted in the stimulation of DNA synthesis, which proved to be resistant to ultraviolet and gamma-irradiation. From the present results it is possible to suggest, that alterations of chromatine structure should be included in facilitating of DNA synthesis on DNA template damaged by ultraviolet or gamma irradiation.

Increased frequency of rhabdomyolysis in familial dysautonomia.

PubMed

Palma, Jose-Alberto; Roda, Ricardo; Norcliffe-Kaufmann, Lucy; Kaufmann, Horacio

2015-11-01

Familial dysautonomia (FD; OMIM # 223900) is an autosomal recessive disease with features of impaired pain and temperature perception and lack of functional muscle spindles. After 3 FD patients presented with rhabdomyolysis in a short time span, we aimed to determine the frequency of rhabdomyolysis is this population. This study was a retrospective chart review of 665 FD patients. Eight patients had at least 1 episode of rhabdomyolysis. Two patients had 2 episodes. The average incidence of rhabdomyolysis in FD was 7.5 per 10,000 person-years. By comparison, the average incidence with statins has been reported to be 0.44 per 10,000 person-years. Mean maximum creatine kinase (CK) level was 32,714 ± 64,749 U/L. Three patients had hip magnetic resonance imaging showing gluteal hyperintensities. Patients with FD have an increased incidence of rhabdomyolysis. We hypothesize that this may result from a combination of absent functional muscle spindles and muscle mitochondrial abnormalities. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Diagnosis and Treatment of the Cardiovascular Consequences of Fabry Disease.

PubMed

Baig, S; Vijapurapu, R; Alharbi, F; Nordin, S; Kozor, R; Moon, J; Bembi, B; Geberhiwot, T; Steeds, R P

2018-06-06

Fabry Disease (FD) has been a diagnostic challenge since it was first recognised in 1898, with patients traditionally suffering from considerable delay before a diagnosis is made. Cardiac involvement is the current leading cause of death in FD. A combination of improved enzyme assays, availability of genetic profiling, together with more organised clinical services for rare diseases, has led to a rapid growth in the prevalence of FD. The earlier and more frequent diagnosis of asymptomatic individuals before development of the phenotype has focussed attention on early detection of organ involvement and closer monitoring of disease progression. The high cost of enzyme replacement therapy at a time of constraint within many health economies moreover, has challenged clinicians to target treatment effectively. This article provides an outline of FD for the general physician and summarises the aetiology and pathology of FD, the cardiovascular (CV) consequences thereof, modalities used in diagnosis, and then discusses current indications for treatment, including pharmacotherapy and device implantation.

78 FR 64428 - Draft Qualitative Risk Assessment of Risk of Activity/Animal Food Combinations for Activities...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-10-29

... Preventive Controls, amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (the FD&C Act) to create a new section 418 with the same name. Section 418 of the FD&C Act (21 U.S.C. 350g) contains requirements applicable to food facilities that are required to register under section 415 of the FD&C Act (21 U.S.C. 350d...

Effective Treatment of Folliculitis Decalvans Using Selected Antimicrobial Agents

PubMed Central

Sillani, Caulloo; Bin, Zhang; Ying, Zhao; Zeming, Cai; Jian, Yang; Xingqi, Zhang

2010-01-01

Folliculitis Decalvans (FD) is a rare neutrophilic infammation of the scalp characterized by painful, recurrent purulent follicular exudation resulting in primary cicatricial alopecia. However, unclear etiology makes FD treatment a difficult task. A wide variety of topical and systemic agents have been tried previously, with varied results. We present here a case series report of a set of 13 patients with FD on antimicrobial therapy. PMID:21188019

Evaluation of Time Domain EM Coupling Techniques. Volume II.

DTIC Science & Technology

1980-08-01

tool for the analysis of elec- tromangetic coupling and shielding problems: the finite-difference, time-domain (FD- TD ) solution of Maxwell’s equations...The objective of the program was to evaluate the suitability of the FD- TD method to determine the amount of electromagnetic coupling through an...specific questfiowwere addressed during this program: 1. Can the FD- TD method accurately model electromagnetic coupling into a conducting structure for

Comparison of Laser Scanning Diagnostic Devices for Early Glaucoma Detection.

PubMed

Schulze, Andreas; Lamparter, Julia; Pfeiffer, Norbert; Berisha, Fatmire; Schmidtmann, Irene; Hoffmann, Esther M

2015-08-01

To compare the diagnostic accuracy and to evaluate the correlation of optic nerve head and retinal nerve fiber layer thickness values between Fourier-Domain optical coherence tomography (FD-OCT), confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscopy (CSLO), and scanning laser polarimetry (SLP) for early glaucoma detection. Ninety-three patients with early open-angle glaucoma, 58 patients with ocular hypertension, and 60 healthy control subjects were included in this observational, cross-sectional study. All study participants underwent FD-OCT (RTVue-100), CSLO (HRT3), and SLP (GDx VCC) imaging of the optic nerve head and the retinal nerve fiber layer. Area under the receiver operating characteristic curves (AUROC) and Bland-Altman analysis were performed. The parameters with the highest diagnostic accuracy were found for FD-OCT cup-to-disc ratio (AUROC=0.841), for SLP NFI (AUROC=0.835), and for CSLO cup-to-disc ratio (AUROC=0.789). Diagnostic accuracy of the best CSLO and SLP parameter was similar (P=0.259). There was a small statistically significant difference between the best CSLO and FD-OCT parameters for differentiating between glaucoma and healthy eyes (P=0.047). FD-OCT and SLP have a similarly good diagnostic ability to distinguish between early glaucoma and healthy subjects. The diagnostic accuracy of CSLO was comparable with SLP and marginally lower compared with FD-OCT.

Effects of Electroacupuncture on Interstitial Cells of Cajal (ICC) Ultrastructure and Connexin 43 Protein Expression in the Gastrointestinal Tract of Functional Dyspepsia (FD) Rats.

PubMed

Zhang, Guoshan; Xie, Shen; Hu, Wei; Liu, Yuer; Liu, Mailan; Liu, Mi; Chang, Xiaorong

2016-06-14

BACKGROUND Gastrointestinal motility disorder is the main clinical manifestation in functional dyspepsia (FD) patients. Electroacupuncture is effective in improving gastrointestinal motility disorder in FD; however, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. It has been demonstrated that interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC) are pacemaker cells in the gastrointestinal tract, and the pacemaker potential is transmitted to nearby cells through gap junctions between ICC or ICC and the smooth muscle. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the effects of electroacupuncture on ICC ultrastructure and expression of the gap junction protein connexin 43 (Cx43) in FD rats. MATERIAL AND METHODS The animals were randomized into 3 groups: control, model, and electroacupuncture. Electroacupuncture was applied at Zusanli (ST36) in the electroacupuncture group daily for 10 days, while no electroacupuncture was applied to model group animals. RESULTS Ultrastructure of ICC recovered normally in gastric antrum and small intestine specimens was improved, with Cx43 expression levels in these tissues significantly increased in the electroacupuncture group compared with the model group. CONCLUSIONS These findings indicated that electroacupuncture is effective in alleviating ICC damage and reduces Cx43 levels in FD rats, and suggest that ICC and Cx43 are involved in electroacupuncture treatment in rats with FD to improve gastrointestinal motility disorders.

Artificial neural networks for retrieving absorption and reduced scattering spectra from frequency-domain diffuse reflectance spectroscopy at short source-detector separation

PubMed Central

Chen, Yu-Wen; Chen, Chien-Chih; Huang, Po-Jung; Tseng, Sheng-Hao

2016-01-01

Diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS) based on the frequency-domain (FD) technique has been employed to investigate the optical properties of deep tissues such as breast and brain using source to detector separation up to 40 mm. Due to the modeling and system limitations, efficient and precise determination of turbid sample optical properties from the FD diffuse reflectance acquired at a source-detector separation (SDS) of around 1 mm has not been demonstrated. In this study, we revealed that at SDS of 1 mm, acquiring FD diffuse reflectance at multiple frequencies is necessary for alleviating the influence of inevitable measurement uncertainty on the optical property recovery accuracy. Furthermore, we developed artificial neural networks (ANNs) trained by Monte Carlo simulation generated databases that were capable of efficiently determining FD reflectance at multiple frequencies. The ANNs could work in conjunction with a least-square optimization algorithm to rapidly (within 1 second), accurately (within 10%) quantify the sample optical properties from FD reflectance measured at SDS of 1 mm. In addition, we demonstrated that incorporating the steady-state apparatus into the FD DRS system with 1 mm SDS would enable obtaining broadband absorption and reduced scattering spectra of turbid samples in the wavelength range from 650 to 1000 nm. PMID:27446671

Neuronal encoding of object and distance information: a model simulation study on naturalistic optic flow processing

PubMed Central

Hennig, Patrick; Egelhaaf, Martin

2011-01-01

We developed a model of the input circuitry of the FD1 cell, an identified motion-sensitive interneuron in the blowfly's visual system. The model circuit successfully reproduces the FD1 cell's most conspicuous property: its larger responses to objects than to spatially extended patterns. The model circuit also mimics the time-dependent responses of FD1 to dynamically complex naturalistic stimuli, shaped by the blowfly's saccadic flight and gaze strategy: the FD1 responses are enhanced when, as a consequence of self-motion, a nearby object crosses the receptive field during intersaccadic intervals. Moreover, the model predicts that these object-induced responses are superimposed by pronounced pattern-dependent fluctuations during movements on virtual test flights in a three-dimensional environment with systematic modifications of the environmental patterns. Hence, the FD1 cell is predicted to detect not unambiguously objects defined by the spatial layout of the environment, but to be also sensitive to objects distinguished by textural features. These ambiguous detection abilities suggest an encoding of information about objects—irrespective of the features by which the objects are defined—by a population of cells, with the FD1 cell presumably playing a prominent role in such an ensemble. PMID:22461769

Facilitated dissociation of transcription factors from single DNA binding sites

PubMed Central

Kamar, Ramsey I.; Banigan, Edward J.; Erbas, Aykut; Giuntoli, Rebecca D.; Olvera de la Cruz, Monica; Johnson, Reid C.; Marko, John F.

2017-01-01

The binding of transcription factors (TFs) to DNA controls most aspects of cellular function, making the understanding of their binding kinetics imperative. The standard description of bimolecular interactions posits that TF off rates are independent of TF concentration in solution. However, recent observations have revealed that proteins in solution can accelerate the dissociation of DNA-bound proteins. To study the molecular basis of facilitated dissociation (FD), we have used single-molecule imaging to measure dissociation kinetics of Fis, a key Escherichia coli TF and major bacterial nucleoid protein, from single dsDNA binding sites. We observe a strong FD effect characterized by an exchange rate ∼1×104 M−1s−1, establishing that FD of Fis occurs at the single-binding site level, and we find that the off rate saturates at large Fis concentrations in solution. Although spontaneous (i.e., competitor-free) dissociation shows a strong salt dependence, we find that FD depends only weakly on salt. These results are quantitatively explained by a model in which partially dissociated bound proteins are susceptible to invasion by competitor proteins in solution. We also report FD of NHP6A, a yeast TF with structure that differs significantly from Fis. We further perform molecular dynamics simulations, which indicate that FD can occur for molecules that interact far more weakly than those that we have studied. Taken together, our results indicate that FD is a general mechanism assisting in the local removal of TFs from their binding sites and does not necessarily require cooperativity, clustering, or binding site overlap. PMID:28364020

Serum Bilirubin Levels and Promoter Variations in HMOX1 and UGT1A1 Genes in Patients with Fabry Disease.

PubMed

Jirásková, Alena; Bortolussi, Giulia; Dostálová, Gabriela; Eremiášová, Lenka; Golaň, Lubor; Danzig, Vilém; Linhart, Aleš; Vítek, Libor

2017-01-01

The aim of our study was to assess the possible relationships among heme oxygenase (HMOX), bilirubin UDP-glucuronosyl transferase (UGT1A1) promoter gene variations, serum bilirubin levels, and Fabry disease (FD). The study included 56 patients with FD (M : F ratio = 0.65) and 185 healthy individuals. Complete standard laboratory and clinical work-up was performed on all subjects, together with the determination of total peroxyl radical-scavenging capacity. The (GT)n and (TA)n dinucleotide variations in the HMOX1 and UGT1A1 gene promoters, respectively, were determined by DNA fragment analysis. Compared to controls, patients with FD had substantially lower serum bilirubin levels (12.0 versus 8.85  μ mol/L, p = 0.003) and also total antioxidant capacity ( p < 0.05), which showed a close positive relationship with serum bilirubin levels ( p = 0.067) and the use of enzyme replacement therapy ( p = 0.036). There was no association between HMOX1 gene promoter polymorphism and manifestation of FD. However, the presence of the TA 7 allele UGT1A1 gene promoter, responsible for higher systemic bilirubin levels, was associated with a twofold lower risk of manifestation of FD (OR = 0.51, 95% CI = 0.27-0.97, p = 0.038). Markedly lower serum bilirubin levels in FD patients seem to be due to bilirubin consumption during increased oxidative stress, although UGT1A1 promoter gene polymorphism may modify the manifestation of FD as well.

Characterization of the key aroma compounds in soy sauce using approaches of molecular sensory science.

PubMed

Steinhaus, Petra; Schieberle, Peter

2007-07-25

Application of aroma extract dilution analysis (AEDA) to the volatiles isolated from a commercial Japanese soy sauce revealed 30 odor-active compounds in the flavor dilution (FD) factor range of 8-4096, among which 2-phenylethanol showed the highest FD factor of 4096, followed by 3-(methylsulfanyl)propanal (methional), the tautomers 4-hydroxy-5-ethyl-2-methyl- and 4-hydroxy-2-ethyl-5-methyl-3(2H)-furanone (4-HEMF), 4-hydroxy-2,5-dimethyl-3(2H)-furanone (4-HDF), and 3-hydroxy-4,5-dimethyl-2(5H)-furanone (sotolone), all showing FD factors of 1024. Thirteen odorants were quantified by stable isotope dilution assays, and their odor activity values (OAVs) were calculated as ratio of their concentrations and odor thresholds in water. Among them, 3-methylbutanal (malty), sotolone (seasoning-like), 4-HEMF (caramel-like), 2-methylbutanal (malty), methional (cooked potato), ethanol (alcoholic), and ethyl 2-methylpropanoate (fruity) showed the highest OAVs (>200). An aqueous model aroma mixture containing 13 odorants, which had been identified with the highest OAVs, in concentrations that occur in the soy sauce showed a good similarity with the overall aroma of the soy sauce itself. Heat treatment of the soy sauce resulted in a clear change of the overall aroma. Quantitation of selected odorants revealed a significant decrease in sotolone and, in particular, increases in 2-acetyl-1-pyrroline, 4-HDMF, and 4-HEMF induced by heating.

A randomised controlled trial of flow driver and bubble continuous positive airway pressure in preterm infants in a resource-limited setting.

PubMed

Mazmanyan, P; Mellor, K; Doré, C J; Modi, N

2016-01-01

The variable-flow flow driver (FD; EME) and continuous-flow bubble (Fisher-Paykel) continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) systems are widely used. As these differ in cost and technical requirements, determining comparative efficacy is important particularly where resources are limited. We performed a randomised, controlled, equivalence trial of CPAP systems. We specified the margin of equivalence as 2 days. We analysed binary variables by logistical regression adjusted for gestation, and log transformed continuous variables by multiple linear regression adjusted for gestation, sex and antenatal steroids. A neonatal unit with no blood gas analyser or surfactant availability and limited X-ray and laboratory facilities Neonates <37 weeks of gestation. We provided CPAP at delivery followed by randomisation to FD or bubble (B). Primary outcome included total days receiving CPAP; secondary outcomes included days receiving CPAP, supplemental oxygen, ventilation, death, pneumothorax and nasal excoriation. We randomised 125 infants (B 66, FD 59). Differences in infant outcomes on B and FD were not statistically significant. The median (range) for CPAP days for survivors was B 0.8 (0.04 to 17.5), FD 0.5 (0.04 to 5.3). B:FD (95% CI) ratios were CPAP days 1.3 (0.9 to 2.1), CPAP plus supplementary oxygen days 1.2 (0.7 to 1.9). B:FD (95% CI) ORs were death 2.3 (0.2 to 28), ventilation 2.1 (0.5 to 9), nasal excoriation 1.2 (0.2 to 8) and pneumothorax 2.4 (0.2 to 26). In a resource-limited setting we found B CPAP equivalent to FD CPAP in the total number of days receiving CPAP within a margin of 2 days. ISRCTN22578364. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://www.bmj.com/company/products-services/rights-and-licensing/

Influence of pH and ionic strength on electrostatic properties of ferredoxin, FNR, and hydrogenase and the rate constants of their interaction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Diakonova, A. N.; Khrushchev, S. S.; Kovalenko, I. B.; Riznichenko, G. Yu; Rubin, A. B.

2016-10-01

Ferredoxin (Fd) protein transfers electrons from photosystem I (PSI) to ferredoxin:NADP+-reductase (FNR) in the photosynthetic electron transport chain, as well as other metabolic pathways. In some photosynthetic organisms including cyanobacteria and green unicellular algae under anaerobic conditions Fd transfers electrons not only to FNR but also to hydrogenase—an enzyme which catalyzes reduction of atomic hydrogen to H2. One of the questions posed by this competitive relationship between proteins is which characteristics of thylakoid stroma media allow switching of the electron flow between the linear path PSI-Fd-FNR-NADP+ and the path PSI-Fd-hydrogenase-H2. The study was conducted using direct multiparticle simulation approach. In this method protein molecules are considered as individual objects that experience Brownian motion and electrostatic interaction with the surrounding media and each other. Using the model we studied the effects of pH and ionic strength (I) upon complex formation between ferredoxin and FNR and ferredoxin and hydrogenase. We showed that the rate constant of Fd-FNR complex formation is constant in a wide range of physiologically significant pH values. Therefore it can be argued that regulation of FNR activity doesn’t involve pH changes in stroma. On the other hand, in the model rate constant of Fd-hydrogenase interaction dramatically depends upon pH: in the range 7-9 it increases threefold. It may seem that because hydrogenase reduces protons it should be more active when pH is acidic. Apparently, regulation of hydrogenase’s affinity to both her reaction partners (H+ and Fd) is carried out by changes in its electrostatic properties. In the dark, the protein is inactive and in the light it is activated and starts to interact with both Fd and H+. Therefore, we can conclude that in chloroplasts the rate of hydrogen production is regulated by pH through the changes in the affinity between hydrogenase and ferredoxin.

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ controls ingestive behavior, agouti-related protein, and neuropeptide Y mRNA in the arcuate hypothalamus.

PubMed

Garretson, John T; Teubner, Brett J W; Grove, Kevin L; Vazdarjanova, Almira; Ryu, Vitaly; Bartness, Timothy J

2015-03-18

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) is clinically targeted for type II diabetes treatment; however, rosiglitazone (ROSI), a PPARγ agonist, increases food intake and body/fat mass as side-effects. Mechanisms for these effects and the role of PPARγ in feeding are not understood. Therefore, we tested this role in Siberian hamsters, a model of human energy balance, and C57BL/6 mice. We tested the following: (1) how ROSI and/or GW9662 (2-chloro-5-nitro-N-phenylbenzamide; PPARγ antagonist) injected intraperitoneally or into the third ventricle (3V) affected Siberian hamster feeding behaviors; (2) whether food deprivation (FD) co-increases agouti-related protein (AgRP) and PPARγ mRNA expression in Siberian hamsters and mice; (3) whether intraperitoneally administered ROSI increases AgRP and NPY in ad libitum-fed animals; (4) whether intraperitoneally administered PPARγ antagonism blocks FD-induced increases in AgRP and NPY; and finally, (5) whether intraperitoneally administered PPARγ modulation affects plasma ghrelin. Third ventricular and intraperitoneally administered ROSI increased food hoarding and intake for 7 d, an effect attenuated by 3V GW9662, and also prevented (intraperitoneal) FD-induced feeding. FD hamsters and mice increased AgRP within the arcuate hypothalamic nucleus with concomitant increases in PPARγ exclusively within AgRP/NPY neurons. ROSI increased AgRP and NPY similarly to FD, and GW9662 prevented FD-induced increases in AgRP and NPY in both species. Neither ROSI nor GW9662 affected plasma ghrelin. Thus, we demonstrated that PPARγ activation is sufficient to trigger food hoarding/intake, increase AgRP/NPY, and possibly is necessary for FD-induced increases in feeding and AgRP/NPY. These findings provide initial evidence that FD-induced increases in AgRP/NPY may be a direct PPARγ-dependent process that controls ingestive behaviors. Copyright © 2015 the authors 0270-6474/15/354571-11$15.00/0.

Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor γ Controls Ingestive Behavior, Agouti-Related Protein, and Neuropeptide Y mRNA in the Arcuate Hypothalamus

PubMed Central

Garretson, John T.; Teubner, Brett J.W.; Grove, Kevin L.; Vazdarjanova, Almira; Ryu, Vitaly

2015-01-01

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) is clinically targeted for type II diabetes treatment; however, rosiglitazone (ROSI), a PPARγ agonist, increases food intake and body/fat mass as side-effects. Mechanisms for these effects and the role of PPARγ in feeding are not understood. Therefore, we tested this role in Siberian hamsters, a model of human energy balance, and C57BL/6 mice. We tested the following: (1) how ROSI and/or GW9662 (2-chloro-5-nitro-N-phenylbenzamide; PPARγ antagonist) injected intraperitoneally or into the third ventricle (3V) affected Siberian hamster feeding behaviors; (2) whether food deprivation (FD) co-increases agouti-related protein (AgRP) and PPARγ mRNA expression in Siberian hamsters and mice; (3) whether intraperitoneally administered ROSI increases AgRP and NPY in ad libitum-fed animals; (4) whether intraperitoneally administered PPARγ antagonism blocks FD-induced increases in AgRP and NPY; and finally, (5) whether intraperitoneally administered PPARγ modulation affects plasma ghrelin. Third ventricular and intraperitoneally administered ROSI increased food hoarding and intake for 7 d, an effect attenuated by 3V GW9662, and also prevented (intraperitoneal) FD-induced feeding. FD hamsters and mice increased AgRP within the arcuate hypothalamic nucleus with concomitant increases in PPARγ exclusively within AgRP/NPY neurons. ROSI increased AgRP and NPY similarly to FD, and GW9662 prevented FD-induced increases in AgRP and NPY in both species. Neither ROSI nor GW9662 affected plasma ghrelin. Thus, we demonstrated that PPARγ activation is sufficient to trigger food hoarding/intake, increase AgRP/NPY, and possibly is necessary for FD-induced increases in feeding and AgRP/NPY. These findings provide initial evidence that FD-induced increases in AgRP/NPY may be a direct PPARγ-dependent process that controls ingestive behaviors. PMID:25788674

Fabrication of a corneal model composed of corneal epithelial and endothelial cells via a collagen vitrigel membrane functioned as an acellular stroma and its application to the corneal permeability test of chemicals.

PubMed

Yamaguchi, Hiroyuki; Takezawa, Toshiaki

2018-05-29

A collagen vitrigel membrane (CVM) we developed can function as both a scaffold for cells and a pathway for chemicals. To extrapolate the corneal permeability of chemicals in vivo, we proposed six corneal models using the CVM. Thin and thick CVMs were utilized as models for Bowman's membrane (BM) and an acellular-stroma (AS), respectively. Models for a corneal epithelium (CEpi), a corneal epithelium-acellular stroma (CEpi-AS), a corneal epithelium-endothelium (CEpi-Endo) and a corneal epithelium-acellular stroma-endothelium (CEpi-AS-Endo) were fabricated by culturing corneal epithelial cells and/or corneal endothelial cells on the surface of CVMs. Subsequently, the permeability coefficient (P app ) value of each model was calculated using five chemicals with different molecular radii; cyanocobalamin and four FITC-dextrans (FD-4, FD-10, FD-20 and FD-40). The slopes of P app versus molecular radii of those chemicals in the both BM and AS models were almost similar to data using an excised rabbit corneal stroma. The ratios of P app values in models for BM, CEpi and CEpi-Endo against those in data using an excised rabbit cornea were calculated as 75.4, 6.4 and 4.5-folds for FD-4 and 38.7, 10.0 and 4.2-folds for FD-10, respectively. Similarly, those in models for AS, CEpi-AS and CEpi-AS-Endo were calculated as 26.1, 2.5 and 0.6-folds for FD-4 and 26.1, 1.5 and 0.6-folds for FD-10, respectively. These results suggest that the CEpi-AS-Endo model with both the barrier function of corneal cell layers and the diffusion capacity of chemicals in thick CVM is most appropriate for extrapolating the corneal permeability of chemicals in vivo . The American Society for Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics.

Growth and prevalence of feeding difficulties in children with Robin sequence: a retrospective cohort study.

PubMed

Paes, Emma C; de Vries, Iris A C; Penris, Wouter M; Hanny, Karlijn H; Lavrijsen, Selma W; van Leerdam, Elselien K; Rademaker, Maaike M; Veldhoen, Esther S; Eijkemans, Rene M J C; Kon, Moshe; Breugem, Corstiaan C

2017-07-01

In addition to breathing problems, patients with Robin sequence (RS) often encounter feeding difficulties (FD). Data regarding the occurrence of FD and possible influencing factors are scarce. The study aim was to elucidate these factors to improve treatment strategies. A retrospective comparative cohort study was conducted, consisting of 69 infants diagnosed with both RS and a cleft palate and 64 isolated cleft palate only (iCPO) infants. Data regarding FD, growth, and airway intervention were collected during the first 2 years of life. A systematic review of the literature was conducted to identify reported FD in RS patients. RS patients had more FD (91 %) than iCPO patients (72 %; p = 0.004). Also, nasogastric (NG)-tube feeding was necessary more frequently and for a longer period (both p < 0.001). Growth was lower in RS than iCPO infants (p = 0.008) and was not affected by the kind of airway management (conservative/surgical; p = 0.178), cleft palate grade (p = 0.308), or associated disorders (p = 0.785). By contrast, surgical intervention subtype did significantly affect growth. Mean reported FD for RS in the literature is 80 % (range = 47-100 %), and 55 % (range = 11-100 %) of infants need NG-tube feeding. FD is present in a large proportion of infants with RS, which indicates the need for early recognition and proper treatment to ensure optimal growth. Growth during the first 2 years of life is significantly lower in RS patients than iCPO patients, which indicates the need for careful attention and long-term follow-up. This study indicates the need for early recognition and proper treatment of FD in RS to ensure optimal growth. In addition, growth needs careful attention and long-term follow-up.

Role of dopamine D1-like receptor within the nucleus accumbens in acute food deprivation- and drug priming-induced reinstatement of morphine seeking in rats.

PubMed

Sadeghzadeh, Fatemeh; Babapour, Vahab; Haghparast, Abbas

2015-01-01

Dopamine is a predominant neurotransmitter in the nervous system, which plays an important role in both drug priming- and cue-induced reinstatement of cocaine and heroin seeking. Therefore, in the present study, the conditioned place preference (CPP) paradigm was used to evaluate the effects of intra-accumbal administration of SCH23390 as a dopamine D1-like receptor antagonist on food deprivation (FD) and drug priming-induced reinstatement. Sixty-eight adult male albino Wistar rats weighing 200-280 g were bilaterally implanted by cannulae into the nucleus accumbens (NAc). For induction of the CPP, subcutaneous (sc) administration of morphine (5mg/kg) was used daily during a three-day conditioning phase. The conditioning score and locomotor activity were recorded by using the Ethovision software. Under extinction conditions, rats were given an 'off' period and were tested for FD-induced reinstatement following the 24-h or 48-h FD condition, and for drug priming-induced reinstatement under the sated condition following an injection of 0.5 and 1mg/kg (sc) morphine. In the next experiments, animals received different doses of intra-accumbal SCH23390 (0.25, 1 and 4 μg/0.5 μl saline) bilaterally and were subsequently tested for FD- and morphine priming-induced reinstatement. Our findings indicated that only a dose of 1mg/kg and not 0.5mg/kg of morphine induced the reinstatement of morphine. 24-h FD similar to 48-h FD induced the reinstatement of seeking behaviors facilitated by an ineffective dose of morphine (0.5mg/kg). Furthermore, the D1-like receptor antagonist attenuated FD- and drug priming-induced reinstatement dose-dependently. It is concluded that FD- and drug priming-induced reinstatement may be mediated, at least in some way, by activation of dopamine D1-like receptors in the NAc. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Evaluation of a metal artifact reduction algorithm applied to post-interventional flat detector CT in comparison to pre-treatment CT in patients with acute subarachnoid haemorrhage.

PubMed

Mennecke, Angelika; Svergun, Stanislav; Scholz, Bernhard; Royalty, Kevin; Dörfler, Arnd; Struffert, Tobias

2017-01-01

Metal artefacts can impair accurate diagnosis of haemorrhage using flat detector CT (FD-CT), especially after aneurysm coiling. Within this work we evaluate a prototype metal artefact reduction algorithm by comparison of the artefact-reduced and the non-artefact-reduced FD-CT images to pre-treatment FD-CT and multi-slice CT images. Twenty-five patients with acute aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH) were selected retrospectively. FD-CT and multi-slice CT before endovascular treatment as well as FD-CT data sets after treatment were available for all patients. The algorithm was applied to post-treatment FD-CT. The effect of the algorithm was evaluated utilizing the pre-post concordance of a modified Fisher score, a subjective image quality assessment, the range of the Hounsfield units within three ROIs, and the pre-post slice-wise Pearson correlation. The pre-post concordance of the modified Fisher score, the subjective image quality, and the pre-post correlation of the ranges of the Hounsfield units were significantly higher for artefact-reduced than for non-artefact-reduced images. Within the metal-affected slices, the pre-post slice-wise Pearson correlation coefficient was higher for artefact-reduced than for non-artefact-reduced images. The overall diagnostic quality of the artefact-reduced images was improved and reached the level of the pre-interventional FD-CT images. The metal-unaffected parts of the image were not modified. • After coiling subarachnoid haemorrhage, metal artefacts seriously reduce FD-CT image quality. • This new metal artefact reduction algorithm is feasible for flat-detector CT. • After coiling, MAR is necessary for diagnostic quality of affected slices. • Slice-wise Pearson correlation is introduced to evaluate improvement of MAR in future studies. • Metal-unaffected parts of image are not modified by this MAR algorithm.

[Symptom overlaps between functional heartburn, functional dyspepsia, and irritable bowel syndrome].

PubMed

2014-05-01

To determine symptom overlaps between functional heartburn (FH), functional dyspepsia (FD), and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). One hundred and ten patients with frequent heartburn but no mucosa breakage under endoscopy were enrolled consecutively. They were required to fill out a questionnaire. The overlapped symptoms of FD and IBS symptoms were screened using Rome ill criteria. The participants were also examined using Hamilton anxiety scale/Hamilton depression scale. All of the participants were followed with 24 h esophageal multichannel intra-luminal impedance monitoring with pH sensor (MII-pH) monitoring and proton pump inhibitor (PPI) trials. The participants were divided into non-erosive reflux disease (NERD) and FH groups. The prevalence of symptom overlaps FD and IBS, between NERD and FH groups was analyzed. Women were more likely to present with FH than with NERD (P < 0.05). The participants with FH had higher prevalence of anxiety and depression than those with NERD (92% vs. 75%, 88% vs. 65% respectively, P < 0.05). Fifty-two (47.3%) patients with heartburn symptom had FD symptoms; 31 (28.2%) had IBS symptoms, and 10 (9.09%) had both FD and IBS symptoms. Patients with FH were more likely to have symptom overlaps of FD and IBS than those with NERD (62% vs. 35%, 48% vs. 11.7%, respectively; P < 0.01). Epigastric pain syndrome (EPS), a subtype of FD, was slightly more likely to have overlapped NERD and FH symptoms than postprandial discomfort symdrome (PDS). But the difference was not significant (29. 1% vs. 18.2%, P > 0.05). IBS-diarrhea was also slightly more likely to have overlapped NERD and FH symptoms than IBS-constipation. Again, the difference was not significant (16.4% vs. 11.8%, P > 0.05). Female, higher prevalence of anxiety and depression, overlapped FD and IBS symptoms are more likely to appear in FH patients than in NERD patients.

PrEFiNe Plan: Strategic plan for Fabry diseases in Nephrology.

PubMed

Del Pino, M D; Ortiz, A; Torra, R; Hernandez, D

2016-01-01

Renal failure is one of the main causes of death in patients with Fabry disease (FD). Due to the low prevalence of FD, delayed diagnosis and misdiagnosis, often the correct diagnosis is made when organ damage is already present. Early recognition of the disease would allow the prevention of severe complications and the premature death of patients with FD. We present here the PrEFiNE project, which includes a wide spectrum of activities with the aim of improve knowledge and diagnosis of FD. The project is sponsored by Shire Iberia (http://shireiberica.com/) From January 2016 to the end of 2017 several activities will be carried out, starting with a survey to evaluate current FD knowledge among nephrologists; in addition some studies to assess prevalence of this disease will be performed. One study will include patients receiving dialysis, another study will cover kidney transplant patients, and a pilot study in chronic kidney disease in stage 3-5 predialysis. Also planned is a pharmacoeconomic study to focus on burden of FD. At the same time medical education activities will be conducted both on line and on site. Plan for dissemination will include medical publications and diffusion to media. PrEFiNE Project will finish with the publication of a compilation book on FD in Nephrology including all planned activities and proposing recommendations based on results and detected unmet needs. PrEfiNE Plan will be coordinated by severa scientific committees, one at national level and 10 other regionals comittees, tha will be responsible to ensure the maximum scientific quality of proposed activities. An advisory board will supervise the project. PrEfiNE project will evaluate an action plan focused on improving FD knowledge to make necessary recommendations for an early recognition of the disease. In addition will generate a plan to improve previously undetected needs. Copyright © 2016 Sociedad Española de Nefrología. Published by Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

Frequency-dependent FDTD methods using Z transforms

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sullivan, Dennis M.

1992-01-01

While the frequency-dependent finite-difference time-domain, or (FD)2TD, method can correctly calculate EM propagation through media whose dielectric properties are frequency-dependent, more elaborate applications lead to greater (FD)2TD complexity. Z-transform theory is presently used to develop the mathematical bases of the (FD)2TD method, simultaneously obtaining a clearer formulation and allowing researchers to draw on the existing literature of systems analysis and signal-processing.

A Demonstration of TIA Using FD-SOI CMOS OPAMP for Far-Infrared Astronomy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nagase, Koichi; Wada, Takehiko; Ikeda, Hirokazu; Arai, Yasuo; Ohno, Morifumi; Hanaoka, Misaki; Kanada, Hidehiro; Oyabu, Shinki; Hattori, Yasuki; Ukai, Sota; Suzuki, Toyoaki; Watanabe, Kentaroh; Baba, Shunsuke; Kochi, Chihiro; Yamamoto, Keita

2016-07-01

We are developing a fully depleted silicon-on-insulator (FD-SOI) CMOS readout integrated circuit (ROIC) operated at temperatures below ˜ 4 K. Its application is planned for the readout circuit of high-impedance far-infrared detectors for astronomical observations. We designed a trans-impedance amplifier (TIA) using a CMOS operational amplifier (OPAMP) with FD-SOI technique. The TIA is optimized to readout signals from a germanium blocked impurity band (Ge BIB) detector which is highly sensitive to wavelengths of up to ˜ 200 \\upmu m. For the first time, we demonstrated the FD-SOI CMOS OPAMP combined with the Ge BIB detector at 4.5 K. The result promises to solve issues faced by conventional cryogenic ROICs.

A multiwavelength frequency-domain near-infrared cerebral oximeter

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kurth, C. Dean; Thayer, William S.

1999-03-01

This study tests a multiwavelength frequency-domain near-infrared oximeter (fdNIRS) in an in vitro model of the human brain. The model is a solid plastic structure containing a vascular network perfused with blood in which haemoglobin oxygen saturation was measured by co-oximetry, providing a standard for comparison. Plastic shells of varying thickness (0.5-2 cm), with a vascular network of their own and encircling the brain model, were also added to simulate extracranial tissues of the infant, child and adult. The fdNIRS oximeter utilizes frequency-domain technology to monitor phaseshifts at 754 nm, 785 nm and 816 nm relative to a 780 nm reference to derive through photon transport and Beer-Lambert equations. We found a linear relationship between fdNIRS and co-oximetry with excellent correlation that fitted the line of identity in all experiments ( n = 7). The bias of fdNIRS oximetry was -2% and the precision was 6%. Blood temperature and fdNIRS source-detector distance did not affect fdNIRS oximetry. Low haemoglobin concentration altered the fdNIRS versus co-oximetry line slope and intercept, producing a 15% error at the extremes of . The infant- and child-like shells overlying the brain model did not alter fdNIRS oximetry, whereas the adult-like shell yielded an error as high as 32%. In conclusion, fdNIRS accurately measures in an in vitro brain model, although low haemoglobin concentration and extracranial tissue of adult thickness influence accuracy.

Evaluation of Hepatic Steatosis by Using Acoustic Structure Quantification US in a Rat Model: Comparison with Pathologic Examination and MR Spectroscopy.

PubMed

Lee, Dong Ho; Lee, Jae Young; Lee, Kyung Bun; Han, Joon Koo

2017-11-01

Purpose To determine factors that significantly affect the focal disturbance (FD) ratio calculated with an acoustic structure quantification (ASQ) technique in a dietary-induced fatty liver disease rat model and to assess the diagnostic performance of the FD ratio in the assessment of hepatic steatosis by using histopathologic examination as a standard of reference. Materials and Methods Twenty-eight male F344 rats were fed a methionine-choline-deficient diet with a variable duration (3.5 days [half week] or 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 weeks; four rats in each group). A control group of four rats was maintained on a standard diet. At the end of each diet period, ASQ ultrasonography (US) and magnetic resonance (MR) spectroscopy were performed. Then, the rat was sacrificed and histopathologic examination of the liver was performed. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was performed to assess the diagnostic performance of the FD ratio in the evaluation of the degree of hepatic steatosis. The Spearman correlation coefficient was calculated to assess the correlation between the ordinal values, and multivariate linear regression analysis was used to identify significant determinant factors for the FD ratio. Results The diagnostic performance of the FD ratio in the assessment of the degree of hepatic steatosis (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve: 1.000 for 5%-33% steatosis, 0.981 for >33% to 66% steatosis, and 0.965 for >66% steatosis) was excellent and was comparable to that of MR spectroscopy. There was a strong negative linear correlation between the FD ratio and the estimated fat fraction at MR spectroscopy (Spearman ρ, -0.903; P < .001). Multivariate linear regression analysis showed that the degree of hepatic steatosis (P < .001) and fibrosis stage (P = .022) were significant factors affecting the FD ratio. Conclusion The FD ratio may potentially provide good diagnostic performance in the assessment of the degree of hepatic steatosis, with a strong negative linear correlation with the estimated fat fraction at MR spectroscopy. The degree of steatosis and stage of fibrosis at histopathologic examination were significant factors that affected the FD ratio. © RSNA, 2017 Online supplemental material is available for this article.

Classification of pediatric functional gastrointestinal disorders related to abdominal pain using Rome III vs. Rome IV criterions.

PubMed

Edwards, Trent; Friesen, Craig; Schurman, Jennifer V

2018-03-17

The primary purpose of this study was to compare Rome III and IV evaluation criteria for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), functional dyspepsia (FD), and an overlap syndrome consisting of both IBS and FD by assessing the frequency of each diagnosis in a population of children with chronic abdominal pain. Frequencies of Rome IV FD subtypes of postprandial distress syndrome (PDS) and epigastric pain syndrome (EPS) were determined and FD/IBS overlap symptom associations were also assessed. We conducted a cross-sectional retrospective chart review of 106 pediatric patients who had completed standardized medical histories as part of their evaluation for chronic abdominal pain. The patients ranged from eight to 17 years of age and reported having abdominal pain at least weekly for 8 weeks. Patients whose evaluation revealed gastrointestinal disease were excluded. The patients' diagnoses were determined by a single pediatric gastroenterologist utilizing the specific criteria for Rome III and IV, respectively. Patients were significantly more likely to be diagnosed with FD (84.9% vs. 52.8%), IBS (69.8% vs. 34%), and FD/IBS overlap (58.5% vs. 17.9%) by Rome IV criteria, as compared to Rome III criteria. With regard to Rome IV FD subtypes, 81.1% fulfilled criteria for PDS, 11.1% fulfilled criteria for EPS, 6.7% fulfilled criteria for both, and 1.1% did not fulfill criteria for either. Finally, we found an increased frequency of diarrhea and pain with eating in the overlap group compared to the non-overlap group of Rome III, while only an increased frequency of diarrhea was found in the overlap group compared to the non-overlap group of Rome IV. Our data demonstrate that utilizing Rome IV criteria, as compared to Rome III, results in an increase in the diagnosis of FD, a two-fold increase in the diagnosis of IBS, and a three-fold increase in the diagnosis of FD/IBS overlap. Rome IV criteria appears to result in greater heterogeneity within diagnostic categories. It is important to determine whether Rome IV diagnoses are predictive of treatment response, and if so, whether assessing symptom variability within a diagnosis will enhance the ability to select patients for a particular treatment.

Development of a Mini-Freeze Dryer for Material-Sparing Laboratory Processing with Representative Product Temperature History.

PubMed

Obeidat, Wasfy M; Sahni, Ekneet; Kessler, William; Pikal, Michael

2018-02-01

The goal of the work described in this publication was to evaluate a new, small, material-sparing freeze dryer, denoted as the "mini-freeze dryer or mini-FD", capable of reproducing the product temperature history of larger freeze dryers, thereby facilitating scale-up. The mini-FD wall temperatures can be controlled to mimic loading procedures and dryer process characteristics of larger dryers. The mini-FD is equipped with a tunable diode laser absorption spectroscopy (TDLAS) water vapor mass flow monitor and with other advanced process analytical technology (PAT) sensors. Drying experiments were performed to demonstrate scalability to larger freeze dryers, including the determination of vial heat transfer coefficients, K v . Product temperature histories during K v runs were evaluated and compared with those obtained with a commercial laboratory-scale freeze dryer (LyoStar II) for sucrose and mannitol product formulations. When the mini-FD wall temperature was set at the LyoStar II band temperature (- 20°C) to mimic lab dryer edge vials, edge vial drying in the mini-FD possessed an average K v within 5% of those obtained during drying in the LyoStar II. When the wall temperature of the mini-FD was set equal to the central vial product temperature, edge vials behaved as center vials, possessing a K v value within 5% of those measured in the LyoStar II. During both K v runs and complete product freeze drying runs, the temperature-time profiles for the average edge vials and central vial in the mini-FD agreed well with the average edge and average central vials of the LyoStar II.

Regulated deficit irrigation alters anthocyanins, tannins and sensory properties of cabernet sauvignon grapes and wines.

PubMed

Casassa, Luis Federico; Keller, Markus; Harbertson, James F

2015-04-29

Four regulated deficit irrigation (RDI) regimes were applied to Cabernet Sauvignon grapes, which were analyzed for phenolics and also made into wine over three consecutive growing seasons. Relative to an industry standard regime (IS), yield was reduced over the three years by 37% in a full-deficit (FD) regime and by 18% in an early deficit (ED) regime, whereas no yield reduction occurred with a late deficit (LD) regime. Relative to IS, skin anthocyanin concentration (fresh weight basis) was 18% and 24% higher in ED and FD, respectively, whereas no effect was seen in LD. Seed tannin concentration was 3% and 8% higher in ED and FD, respectively, relative to the other two RDI regimes, whereas seed tannin content (amount per berry) was higher in IS than in FD. There were no practically relevant effects on the basic chemistry of the wines. The finished wines showed concentrations of tannins and anthocyanins that generally mirrored observed differences in skin and seed phenolic concentrations, although these were amplified in FD wines. Descriptive sensory analysis of the 2008 wines showed that FD wines were the most saturated in color, with higher purple hue, roughness, dryness and harshness, followed by ED wines, whereas IS and LD wines were less saturated in color and with higher brown and red hues. Overall, FD and ED seemed to yield fruit and wine with greater concentrations of phenolics than IS and LD, with the additional advantage of reducing water usage. However, these apparent benefits need to be balanced out with reductions in crop yields and potential long-term effects associated with pre-véraison water deficits.

Prevalence and characteristics of sleep-disordered breathing in familial dysautonomia.

PubMed

Singh, Kanwaljit; Palma, Jose-Alberto; Kaufmann, Horacio; Tkachenko, Nataliya; Norcliffe-Kaufmann, Lucy; Spalink, Christy; Kazachkov, Mikhail; Kothare, Sanjeev V

2018-05-01

Familial dysautonomia (FD) is an autosomal recessive disorder characterized by impaired development of sensory and afferent autonomic nerves. Untreated sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) has been reported to increase the risk of sudden unexpected death in FD. We aimed to describe the prevalence and characteristics of SDB in FD. Seventy-five patients with FD (20 adults and 55 children) underwent in-lab polysomnography, including peripheral capillary oxygen saturation (SpO 2 ) and end-tidal capnography (EtCO 2 ) measurements. A t-test and Spearman's correlation analysis were performed to evaluate the impact of age on sleep, occurrence of apneas, SpO 2 and EtCO 2 levels; and to determine the relationship between apneas and SpO 2 /EtCO 2 measurements during different sleep stages. Overall, 85% of adults and 91% of pediatric patients had some degree of SDB. Obstructive sleep apneas were more severe in adults (8.5 events/h in adults vs. 3.5 events/h in children, p = 0.04), whereas central apneas were more severe (10.8 vs. 2.8 events/h, p = 0.04) and frequent (61.8% vs. 45%, p = 0.017) in children. Overall, a higher apnea-hypopnea index was associated with increased severity of hypoxia and hypoventilation, although in a significant fraction of patients (67% and 46%), hypoxemia and hypoventilation occurred independent of apneas. Most adult and pediatric patients with FD suffer from some degree of SDB. There was a differential effect of age in the pattern of SDB observed. In some FD patients, hypoventilation and hypoxia occurred independently of apneas. Therefore, we recommend including EtCO 2 monitoring during polysomnography in all patients with FD to detect SDB. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Development of a tool to assess adherence to a model of the division of responsibility in feeding young children: using response mapping to capacitate validation measures.

PubMed

Lohse, Barbara; Satter, Ellyn; Arnold, Kristen

2014-04-01

Accurate early assessment and targeted intervention with problematic parent/child feeding dynamics is critical for the prevention and treatment of child obesity. The division of responsibility in feeding (sDOR), articulated by the Satter Feeding Dynamics Model (fdSatter), has been demonstrated clinically as an effective approach to reduce child feeding problems, including those leading to obesity. Lack of a tested instrument to examine adherence to fdSatter stimulated initial construction of the Satter Feeding Dynamics Inventory (fdSI). The aim of this project was to refine the item pool to establish translational validity, making the fdSI suitable for advanced psychometric analysis. Cognitive interviews (n = 80) with caregivers of varied socioeconomic strata informed revisions that demonstrated face and content validity. fdSI responses were mapped to interviews using an iterative, multi-phase thematic approach to provide an instrument ready for construct validation. fdSI development required five interview phases over 32 months: Foundational; Refinement; Transitional; Assurance; and Launching. Each phase was associated with item reduction and revision. Thirteen items were removed from the 38-item Foundational phase and seven were revised in the Refinement phase. Revisions, deletions, and additions prompted by Transitional and Assurance phase interviews resulted in the 15-item Launching phase fdSI. Only one Foundational phase item was carried through all development phases, emphasizing the need to test for item comprehension and interpretation before psychometric analyses. Psychometric studies of item pools without encrypted meanings will facilitate progress toward a tool that accurately detects adherence to sDOR. Ability to measure sDOR will facilitate focus on feeding behaviors associated with reduced risk of childhood obesity.

[Hospitalisation as a risk for functional decline in older adults].

PubMed

Córcoles-Jiménez, María Pilar; Ruiz-García, María Victoria; Saiz-Vinuesa, María Dolores; Muñoz-Mansilla, Elena; Herreros-Sáez, Lucía; Fernández-Pallarés, Pedro; Calero-Yáñez, Francisca; Muñoz-Serrano, María Teresa

2016-01-01

FUNCTIONAL DECLINE: (FD) is a risk associated with hospital admission in older people, due to its high prevalence (35-70%) and its serious consequences. To determine the incidence of FD in the elderly after hospital admission at the Geriatric and Internal Medicine wards of a tertiary teaching hospital (Albacete, Spain). A cohort study has been designed, whose primary focus was FD, defined as the loss of independence to perform the activities of daily living between preadmission status and discharge. Demographic characteristics, comorbidity, length of hospital stay and cognitive status have been analysed. Data collection was performed by interviews with patients and caregivers during hospitalization and after discharge (by phone), as well as by revision of clinical records. 104 patients were evaluated, of which 51.9% were female; the average age was 79.97 years (dt=7.89) IC 95% [78.43, 81.5] and the average length of stay was 10.11 days (dt=7.65) IC 95% [8.62,11.6]. The proportion of patients who showed a normal cognitive status on the first in-hospital day was 41.4% (43 patients). FD was present in 60 (57.7%) patients in the first day of hospitalisation; when discharged, 32.6% of 92 patients who could be evaluated showed FD. 19% of patients who were previously independent in activities of daily living developed a serious dependence after discharge. FD was associated statistically with age and a history of previous falls. FD takes place in a high percentage of the elderly patients. Among the previously independent patients, 19% remains in a situation of dependence after discharge. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

Nanospines incorporation into the structure of the hydrophobic cryogels via novel cryogelation method: an alternative sorbent for plasmid DNA purification.

PubMed

Üzek, Recep; Uzun, Lokman; Şenel, Serap; Denizli, Adil

2013-02-01

In this study, it was aimed to prepare hydrophobic cryogels for plasmid DNA (pDNA) purification from Escherichia coli lysate. The hydrophobicity was achieved by incorporating a hydrophobic ligand, N-methacryloyl-(L)-phenylalanine (MAPA), into the cryogel backbone. In addition to the conventional cryogelation process, freeze-drying step was included to create nanospines. Three different cryogels {poly(2-hydoxyethyl methacrylate-N-methacryloyl-L-phenylalanine)-freeze dried, [P(HEMA-MAPA)-FD]; poly(2-hydoxyethyl methacrylate-N-methacryloyl-L-phenylalanine, [P(HEMA-MAPA)] and poly(2-hydoxyethyl methacrylate)-freeze dried, [P(HEMA)-FD]} were prepared, characterized, and used for DNA (salmon sperm DNA) adsorption studies from aqueous solution. The specific surface areas of cryogels were determined to be 21.4 m(2)/g for P(HEMA)-FD, 17.65 m(2)/g for P(HEMA-MAPA) and 36.0 m(2)/g for P(HEMA-MAPA)-FD. The parameters affecting adsorption such as temperature, initial DNA concentration, salt type and concentration were examined in continuous mode. The maximum adsorption capacities were observed as 45.31 mg DNA/g, 27.08 mg DNA/g and 1.81 mg DNA/g for P(HEMA-MAPA)-FD, P(HEMA-MAPA) and P(HEMA)-FD, respectively. Desorption process was performed using acetate buffer (pH 5.50) without salt. First, pDNA was isolated from E. coli lysate and the purity of pDNA was then determined by agarose gel electrophoresis. Finally, the chromatographic performance of P(HEMA-MAPA)-FD cryogel for pDNA purification was tested in FPLC. The resolution (R(s)) was 2.84, and the specific selectivity for pDNA was 237.5-folds greater than all impurities. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Comparison of three nonlinear models to describe long-term tag shedding by lake trout

USGS Publications Warehouse

Fabrizio, Mary C.; Swanson, Bruce L.; Schram, Stephen T.; Hoff, Michael H.

1996-01-01

We estimated long-term tag-shedding rates for lake trout Salvelinus namaycush using two existing models and a model we developed to account for the observed permanence of some tags. Because tag design changed over the course of the study, we examined tag-shedding rates for three types of numbered anchor tags (Floy tags FD-67, FD-67C, and FD-68BC) and an unprinted anchor tag (FD-67F). Lake trout from the Gull Island Shoal region, Lake Superior, were double-tagged, and subsequent recaptures were monitored in annual surveys conducted from 1974 to 1992. We modeled tag-shedding rates, using time at liberty and probabilities of tag shedding estimated from fish released in 1974 and 1978–1983 and later recaptured. Long-term shedding of numbered anchor tags in lake trout was best described by a nonlinear model with two parameters: an instantaneous tag-shedding rate and a constant representing the proportion of tags that were never shed. Although our estimates of annual shedding rates varied with tag type (0.300 for FD-67, 0.441 for FD-67C, and 0.656 for FD-68BC), differences were not significant. About 36% of tags remained permanently affixed to the fish. Of the numbered tags that were shed (about 64%), two mechanisms contributed to tag loss: disintegration and dislodgment. Tags from about 11% of recaptured fish had disintegrated, but most tags were dislodged. Unprinted tags were shed at a significant but low rate immediately after release, but the long-term, annual shedding rate of these tags was only 0.013. Compared with unprinted tags, numbered tags dislodged at higher annual rates; we hypothesized that this was due to the greater frictional drag associated with the larger cross-sectional area of numbered tags.

The Frequency Spectral Properties of Electrode-Skin Contact Impedance on Human Head and Its Frequency-Dependent Effects on Frequency-Difference EIT in Stroke Detection from 10Hz to 1MHz.

PubMed

Yang, Lin; Dai, Meng; Xu, Canhua; Zhang, Ge; Li, Weichen; Fu, Feng; Shi, Xuetao; Dong, Xiuzhen

2017-01-01

Frequency-difference electrical impedance tomography (fdEIT) reconstructs frequency-dependent changes of a complex impedance distribution. It has a potential application in acute stroke detection because there are significant differences in impedance spectra between stroke lesions and normal brain tissues. However, fdEIT suffers from the influences of electrode-skin contact impedance since contact impedance varies greatly with frequency. When using fdEIT to detect stroke, it is critical to know the degree of measurement errors or image artifacts caused by contact impedance. To our knowledge, no study has systematically investigated the frequency spectral properties of electrode-skin contact impedance on human head and its frequency-dependent effects on fdEIT used in stroke detection within a wide frequency band (10 Hz-1 MHz). In this study, we first measured and analyzed the frequency spectral properties of electrode-skin contact impedance on 47 human subjects' heads within 10 Hz-1 MHz. Then, we quantified the frequency-dependent effects of contact impedance on fdEIT in stroke detection in terms of the current distribution beneath the electrodes and the contact impedance imbalance between two measuring electrodes. The results showed that the contact impedance at high frequencies (>100 kHz) significantly changed the current distribution beneath the electrode, leading to nonnegligible errors in boundary voltages and artifacts in reconstructed images. The contact impedance imbalance at low frequencies (<1 kHz) also caused significant measurement errors. We conclude that the contact impedance has critical frequency-dependent influences on fdEIT and further studies on reducing such influences are necessary to improve the application of fdEIT in stroke detection.

Fractal Dimension of Tc-99m DTPA GSA Estimates Pathologic Liver Injury due to Chemotherapy in Liver Cancer Patients.

PubMed

Hiroshima, Yukihiko; Shuto, Kiyohiko; Yamazaki, Kazuto; Kawaguchi, Daisuke; Yamada, Masatoshi; Kikuchi, Yutaro; Kasahara, Kohei; Murakami, Takashi; Hirano, Atsushi; Mori, Mikito; Kosugi, Chihiro; Matsuo, Kenichi; Ishida, Yasuo; Koda, Keiji; Tanaka, Kuniya

2016-12-01

Chemotherapy-induced liver injury after potent chemotherapy is a considerable problem in patients undergoing liver resection. The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between the fractal dimension (FD) of Tc-99m diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (DTPA) galactosyl human serum albumin (GSA) and pathologic change of liver parenchyma in liver cancer patients who have undergone chemotherapy. We examined 34 patients (10 female and 24 male; mean age, 68.5 years) who underwent hepatectomy. Hepatic injury was defined as steatosis more than 30 %, grade 2-3 sinusoidal dilation, and/or steatohepatitis Kleiner score ≥4. Fractal analysis was applied to all images of Tc-99m DTPA GSA using a plug-in tool on ImageJ software (NIH, Bethesda, MD). A differential box-counting method was applied, and FD was calculated as a heterogeneity parameter. Correlations between FD and clinicopathological variables were examined. FD values of patients with steatosis and steatohepatitis were significantly higher than those without (P > .001 and P > .001, respectively). There was no difference between the FD values of patients with and without sinusoidal dilatation (P = .357). Multivariate logistic regression showed FD as the only significant predictor for steatosis (P = .005; OR 36.5; 95 % CI 3.0-446.3) and steatohepatitis (P = .012; OR, 29.1; 95 % CI 2.1-400.1). FD of Tc-99m DTPA GSA was the significant predictor for fatty liver disease in patients who underwent chemotherapy. This new modality is able to differentiate steatohepatitis from steatosis; therefore, it may be useful for predicting chemotherapy-induced pathologic liver injury.

Functional Characterization of Phalaenopsis aphrodite Flowering Genes PaFT1 and PaFD

PubMed Central

Jang, Seonghoe; Choi, Sang-Chul; Li, Hsing-Yi; An, Gynheung; Schmelzer, Elmon

2015-01-01

We show that the key flowering regulators encoded by Phalaenopsis aphrodite FLOWERING LOCUS T1 (PaFT1) and PaFD share high sequence homologies to these from long-day flowering Arabidopsis and short-day flowering rice. Interestingly, PaFT1 is specifically up-regulated during flowering inductive cooling treatment but is not subjected to control by photoperiod in P. aphrodite. Phloem or shoot apex-specific expression of PaFT1 restores the late flowering of Arabidopsis ft mutants. Moreover, PaFT1 can suppress the delayed flowering caused by SHORT VEGATATIVE PHASE (SVP) overexpression as well as an active FRIGIDA (FRI) allele, indicating the functional conservation of flowering regulatory circuit in different plant species. PaFT1 promoter:GUS in Arabidopsis showed similar staining pattern to that of Arabidopsis FT in the leaves and guard cells but different in the shoot apex. A genomic clone or heat shock-inducible expression of PaFT1 is sufficient to the partial complementation of the ft mutants. Remarkably, ectopic PaFT1 expression also triggers precocious heading in rice. To further demonstrate the functional conservation of the flowering regulators, we show that PaFD, a bZIP transcription factor involved in flowering promotion, interacts with PaFT1, and PaFD partially complemented Arabidopsis fd mutants. Transgenic rice expressing PaFD also flowered early with increased expression of rice homologues of APETALA1 (AP1). Consistently, PaFT1 knock-down Phalaenopsis plants generated by virus-induced gene silencing exhibit delayed spiking. These studies suggest functional conservation of FT and FD genes, which may have evolved and integrated into distinct regulatory circuits in monopodial orchids, Arabidopsis and rice that promote flowering under their own inductive conditions. PMID:26317412

The Frequency Spectral Properties of Electrode-Skin Contact Impedance on Human Head and Its Frequency-Dependent Effects on Frequency-Difference EIT in Stroke Detection from 10Hz to 1MHz

PubMed Central

Zhang, Ge; Li, Weichen; Fu, Feng; Shi, Xuetao; Dong, Xiuzhen

2017-01-01

Frequency-difference electrical impedance tomography (fdEIT) reconstructs frequency-dependent changes of a complex impedance distribution. It has a potential application in acute stroke detection because there are significant differences in impedance spectra between stroke lesions and normal brain tissues. However, fdEIT suffers from the influences of electrode-skin contact impedance since contact impedance varies greatly with frequency. When using fdEIT to detect stroke, it is critical to know the degree of measurement errors or image artifacts caused by contact impedance. To our knowledge, no study has systematically investigated the frequency spectral properties of electrode-skin contact impedance on human head and its frequency-dependent effects on fdEIT used in stroke detection within a wide frequency band (10 Hz-1 MHz). In this study, we first measured and analyzed the frequency spectral properties of electrode-skin contact impedance on 47 human subjects’ heads within 10 Hz-1 MHz. Then, we quantified the frequency-dependent effects of contact impedance on fdEIT in stroke detection in terms of the current distribution beneath the electrodes and the contact impedance imbalance between two measuring electrodes. The results showed that the contact impedance at high frequencies (>100 kHz) significantly changed the current distribution beneath the electrode, leading to nonnegligible errors in boundary voltages and artifacts in reconstructed images. The contact impedance imbalance at low frequencies (<1 kHz) also caused significant measurement errors. We conclude that the contact impedance has critical frequency-dependent influences on fdEIT and further studies on reducing such influences are necessary to improve the application of fdEIT in stroke detection. PMID:28107524

[Non-destructive, preclinical evaluation of root canal anatomy of human teeth with flat-panel detector volume CT (FD-VCT)].

PubMed

Heidrich, G; Hassepass, F; Dullin, C; Attin, T; Grabbe, E; Hannig, C

2005-12-01

Successful endodontic diagnostics and therapy call for adequate depiction of the root canal anatomy with multimodal diagnostic imaging. The aim of the present study is to evaluate visualization of the endodont with flat-panel detector volume CT (FD-VCT). 13 human teeth were examined with the prototype of a FD-VCT. After data acquisition and generation of volume data sets in volume rendering technology (VRT), the findings obtained were compared to conventional X-rays and cross-section preparations of the teeth. The anatomical structures of the endodont such as root canals, side canals and communications between different root canals as well as denticles could be detected precisely with FD-VCT. The length of curved root canals was also determined accurately. The spatial resolution of the system is around 140 microm. Only around 73 % of the main root canals detected with FD-VCT and 87 % of the roots could be visualized with conventional dental X-rays. None of the side canals, shown with FD-VCT, was detectable on conventional X-rays. In all cases the enamel and dentin of the teeth could be well delineated. No differences in image quality could be discerned between stored and freshly extracted teeth, or between primary and adult teeth. FD-VCT is an innovative diagnostic modality in preclinical and experimental use for non-destructive three-dimensional analysis of teeth. Thanks to the high isotropic spatial resolution compared with conventional X-rays, even the minutest structures, such as side canals, can be detected and evaluated. Potential applications in endodontics include diagnostics and evaluation of all steps of root canal treatment, ranging from trepanation through determination of the length of the root canal to obturation.

Safety and efficacy of flow diverter treatment for blood blister-like aneurysm: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

PubMed

Zhu, Deyuan; Yan, Yazhou; Zhao, Puyuan; Duan, Guoli; Zhao, Rui; Liu, Jianmin; Huang, Qinghai

2018-06-23

To clarify the safety and efficacy of flow diverter (FD) treatment for blood blister-like aneurysm (BBA), we conducted a systematic review and literature analyzing perioperative and long-term clinical and angiographic outcomes. A comprehensive review of the up-to-date literature for studies with >2 patients related to FD treatment of BBAs published was performed. Random-effects meta-analysis was used to pool the following outcomes: complete occlusion, technical success, aneurysm recurrence, rebleeding, perioperative mortality, perioperative stroke, procedure-related morbidity and mortality, long-term neurological morbidity and mortality, and overall good neurological outcome. We included 15 non-comparative studies with 165 target BBAs. Complete occlusion rates were 72% (95%CI= 0.59-0.85). Recurrence occurred in 13% (95%CI= -0.04-0.29) and rebleeding in 3% (95%CI = -0.02-0.07) of patients. Procedure-related morbidity and mortality were 26% (95%CI =0.19-0.33) and 3% (95%CI= -0.01-0.07), respectively. Long-term good outcome was 83% (95% CI = 0.77-0.89). Subgroup analysis indicated that single FD strategy for BBA seemed to have a higher good outcome rate compared to overlapped FD strategy (89.9% versus 61.9%, OR=1.42, 95%CI=1.25-14.98, P=0.02). Complete occlusion rate and procedure-related morbidity rate did not see any significant difference between these two strategies. Our meta-analysis suggests that in select cases, FD can be safe and effective. Single FD strategy may result in a higher good outcome rate compared to overlapped FD strategy. Ultimately, treatment of BBA should be considered on a case-by-case basis to maximize patient benefits and limit the risk of perioperative complications. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Duodenal intraepithelial T lymphocytes in patients with functional dyspepsia

PubMed Central

Gargala, Gilles; Lecleire, Stéphane; François, Arnaud; Jacquot, Serge; Déchelotte, Pierre; Ballet, Jean Jacques; Favennec, Loic; Ducrotté, Philippe

2007-01-01

AIM: To quantify the intraepithelial lymphocytes (IELs) and to document the membrane expression of CD4, CD8, TCRγδ and adhesion and/or activation-associated molecules (CD103, CD28, CD44, CD69, HLA-DR, CD95/Fas) in the duodenal mucosa of patients with functional dyspepsia (FD) in order to provide arguments for an immunological process in FD. METHODS: Twenty-six FD patients according to Rome II criteria (20 were H pylori negative) were studied and compared to 12 healthy adults. IELs were isolated from five duodenal biopsy samples, then quantified by microscopy and flow cytometry while the membrane phenotypes were determined by cytofluorometry. RESULTS: Duodenal histological examination was normal. In H pylori negative patients, the number of IELs was not different from that in healthy controls. Median percentage expression of CD4, CD8, or TCRγδ and CD103, CD44, CD28, CD69 on CD3+ IELs, among the adhesion/activation associated molecules tested, was not different from that in healthy controls. In contrast, the median percentage expression of CD95/Fas [22 (9-65) vs 45 (19-88), P = 0.03] and HLA-DR expressing CD3+ IELs [4 (0-30) vs 13 (4-42), P = 0.04] was significantly lower in the H pylori negative FD group than in healthy controls, respectively. The number of IELs was significantly greater in H pylori positive FD patients than in healthy controls [median ratiofor 100 enterocytes 27.5 (6.7-62.5) vs 10.8 (3-33.3), P = 0.02] due to a higher number of CD8+ CD3+ IELs. CONCLUSION: In H pylori negative FD patients, the phenotypic characterization of IELs suggests that we cannot exclude a role of IELs in FD. PMID:17511033

Long-term remission of folliculitis decalvans after treatment with the long-pulsed Nd:YAG laser.

PubMed

Meesters, Arne A; Van der Veen, J P Wietze; Wolkerstorfer, Albert

2014-04-01

Folliculitis decalvans (FD) is a rare inflammatory scalp disorder presenting with tufted folliculitis, follicular papules and pustules, progressing to cicatricial alopecia. Current treatments mainly consist of antibiotic and immunomodulatory therapies and are often disappointing. FD has previously shown to respond to treatment with neodymium:yttrium aluminium garnet (Nd:YAG) laser in one case. We present a case of recalcitrant FD, successfully treated with a long-pulsed Nd:YAG laser.

Cases Study of Nonlinear Interaction Between Near-Inertial Waves Induced by Typhoon and Diurnal Tides Near the Xisha Islands

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Junliang; He, Yinghui; Li, Juan; Cai, Shuqun; Wang, Dongxiao; Huang, Yandan

2018-04-01

Nonlinear interaction between near-inertial waves (NIWs) and diurnal tides (DTs) after nine typhoons near the Xisha Islands of the northwestern South China Sea (SCS) were investigated using three-year in situ mooring observation data. It was found that a harmonic wave (f + D1, hereafter referred to as fD1 wave), with a frequency equal to the sum of frequencies of NIWs and DTs (hereafter referred to as f and D1, respectively), was generated via nonlinear interaction between typhoon-induced NIWs and DTs after each typhoon. The fD1 wave mainly concentrates in the subsurface layer, and is mainly induced by the first component of the vertical nonlinear momentum term, the product of the vertical velocity of DT and vertical shear of near-inertial current (hereafter referred to as Component 1), in which the vertical shear of the near-inertial current greatly affects the strength of the fD1 current. The larger the Component 1, the stronger the fD1 currents. The background preexisting mesoscale anticyclonic eddy near the mooring site may also enhance the vertical velocity of DT and thus Component 1, which subsequently facilitates the nonlinear interaction-induced energy transfer to the fD1 wave and enhances the fD1 currents after the passage of a typhoon.

Effects of Electroacupuncture on Interstitial Cells of Cajal (ICC) Ultrastructure and Connexin 43 Protein Expression in the Gastrointestinal Tract of Functional Dyspepsia (FD) Rats

PubMed Central

Zhang, Guoshan; Xie, Shen; Hu, Wei; Liu, Yuer; Liu, Mailan; Liu, Mi; Chang, Xiaorong

2016-01-01

Background Gastrointestinal motility disorder is the main clinical manifestation in functional dyspepsia (FD) patients. Electroacupuncture is effective in improving gastrointestinal motility disorder in FD; however, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. It has been demonstrated that interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC) are pacemaker cells in the gastrointestinal tract, and the pacemaker potential is transmitted to nearby cells through gap junctions between ICC or ICC and the smooth muscle. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the effects of electroacupuncture on ICC ultrastructure and expression of the gap junction protein connexin 43 (Cx43) in FD rats. Material/Methods The animals were randomized into 3 groups: control, model, and electroacupuncture. Electroacupuncture was applied at Zusanli (ST36) in the electroacupuncture group daily for 10 days, while no electroacupuncture was applied to model group animals. Results Ultrastructure of ICC recovered normally in gastric antrum and small intestine specimens was improved, with Cx43 expression levels in these tissues significantly increased in the electroacupuncture group compared with the model group. Conclusions These findings indicated that electroacupuncture is effective in alleviating ICC damage and reduces Cx43 levels in FD rats, and suggest that ICC and Cx43 are involved in electroacupuncture treatment in rats with FD to improve gastrointestinal motility disorders. PMID:27297942

Meta-analysis of the effects of prokinetic agents in patients with functional dyspepsia.

PubMed

Hiyama, Toru; Yoshihara, Masaharu; Matsuo, Keitaro; Kusunoki, Hiroaki; Kamada, Tomoari; Ito, Masanori; Tanaka, Shinji; Nishi, Nobuo; Chayama, Kazuaki; Haruma, Ken

2007-03-01

Functional dyspepsia (FD) is often treated with prokinetic agents; however, the efficacy of prokinetic agents in patients with FD has been questioned recently. The aim of this study was to perform a meta-analysis of the effects of prokinetic agents in patients with FD. Prokinetic agents, including metoclopramide, domperidone, trimebutine, cisapride, itopride and mosapride, used for treatment of FD between 1951 and 2005 were identified. Twenty-seven studies were selected. Difference in the probability of response between the interventional drug and placebo was used as a summary statistic for the treatment effect. Meta-regression analysis was used to detect sources of heterogeneity. In total, 1844 subjects were assigned to an experimental arm, and 1591 subjects were assigned to a placebo arm. Publication bias was ruled out by funnel plot and statistical testing (P = 0.975). In the overall analysis, the summary statistic was 0.295 (95% confidence interval: 0.208-0.382, P < 0.001), indicating that the interventional drug has 30% excess probability of producing a response compared with placebo. The most significant source of heterogeneity was the year of publication (P < 0.001). The data clearly indicate that prokinetic agents are significantly more effective than placebo in the treatment of FD. Although FD is a chronic condition, efficacy was assessed over short periods. Long-term randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm the effect.

Can basal cell carcinoma lateral border be determined by fluorescence diagnosis?: Verification by Mohs micrographic surgery.

PubMed

El Hoshy, Khaled; Bosseila, Manal; El Sharkawy, Dina; Sobhi, Rehab

2016-06-01

The preferential accumulation of 5-aminolaevulinic acid (ALA)-induced protoporphyrin IX (PpIX) in neoplastic cells supports its potential use in the photodetection of epithelial tumours through porphyrin fluorescence. To assess the validity of fluorescence diagnosis (FD) as an efficient pre-surgical in vivo imaging tool for defining the lateral boundaries of various types of basal cell carcinomas (BCCs). The BCC tumour area was determined for 27 patients using FD digitalized imaging system, where the accumulation of PpIX in tumour tissue in relation to normal tissue was measured. Subsequently, BCCs were excised according to the complete area defined by FD using Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS). Of the 27 BCCs, the FD margin of the lesion coincided with the histopathological picture in 12 BCCs (44.44%). The mean value of accumulation factor (AF) was 2.7. Although 17 pigmented BCCs showed attenuated or absent fluorescence in the center, fluorescence at their periphery was used as a guide for excision, and statistically, the pigmentation of the BCCs showed no effect on the results of the FD efficacy (p=1.0). Fluorescence diagnosis of BCC may be beneficial as a guide to the safety margin needed before MMS. The safety margin is decided according to the FD tumour diameter in relation to the clinical tumour diameter. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Analysis of the relationship between Chalcone Isomerase gene expression level and rutin production in Ficus deltoidea var. deltoidea and F. deltoidea var. angustifolia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Najid, Najihah Mohd; Zain, Che Radziah Che Mohd; Zainal, Zamri

2016-11-01

Ficus deltoidea (moraceae) is a herbal plant with medicinal values. Previous studies reported that the F. deltoidea contains a high level of bioactive compounds such as flavonoids. A cDNA encodes for chalcone isomerase was identified from F. deltoidea, designated as FdCHI, which involved in the isomerization of naringenin chalcone to naringenin. Naringenin is a key branch point for the synthesis of rutin, which is believed involved in defense mechanism in the plant. Therefore, we hypothesized that there might be a direct relationship between FdCHI expression level and rutin production in leaves of F. deltoidea var. deltoidea (FDD) and F. deltoidea var. angustifolia (FDA). Our result showed that expression level of FdCHI in leaves FDD was greater than FDA. Analysis of High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) revealed that rutin was only detected in FDA leaves. Based on the results between FdCHI expression and rutin production, this study concluded that there is no relationship between FdCHI expression and rutin production in leaves of FDA and FDD.

High non-relapse mortality and low relapse incidence in gender-mismatched allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation from a parous female donor with a male child.

PubMed

Shinohara, Akihito; Inamoto, Yoshihiro; Kurosawa, Saiko; Hiramoto, Nobuhiro; Ueda, Ryosuke; Tanaka, Takashi; Tada, Kohei; Kobayashi, Yujin; Morikawa, Noriyuki; Okinaka, Keiji; Kim, Sung-Won; Tajima, Kinuko; Fukuda, Takahiro

2017-03-01

To clarify the influence of exposure to a male fetus during a female donor's (FD) pregnancy in allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), we retrospectively examined 292 HSCT patients. The 5-year non-relapse mortality (NRM) was 33.5% among 31 male recipients who had HSCT from FD with a male child (MC), 23.0% among 40 male recipients who had HSCT from FD without MC and 19.6% among 221 other recipients. The 5-year relapse incidence (RI) was 22.6%, 42.0%, and 43.1% for the respective group. In multivariate analysis, male recipients who had HSCT from FD with MC had an increased risk of NRM (hazard ratio [HR] 1.92, 95% CI 1.08-3.42, p = .03), a reduced risk of RI (HR 0.42, 95% CI 0.18-0.96, p = .04), resulting in no significant difference regarding overall survival. Male child of FD is suggested to influence NRM and RI in gender-mismatched HSCT.

Development and validation of a food frequency questionnaire to estimate the intake of genistein in Malaysia.

PubMed

Fernandez, Anne R; Omar, Siti Zawiah; Husain, Ruby

2013-11-01

To develop and validate a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) to estimate the genistein intake in a Malaysian population of pregnant women. A single 24-h dietary recall was obtained from 40 male and female volunteers. A FFQ of commonly consumed genistein-rich foods was developed from these recalls, and a database of the genistein content of foods found in Malaysia was set up. The FFQ was validated against 7-d food diary (FD) kept by 46 pregnant women and against non-fasting serum samples obtained from 64 pregnant women. Reproducibility was assessed by comparing the responses on two FFQs administered approximately 1 month apart. The Pearson correlation coefficient between FFQ1 and FD was 0.724 and that between FFQ2 and FD was 0.807. Classification into the same or adjacent quintiles was 78% for FFQ1 versus FD and 88% for FFQ2 versus FD. A significant dose -- response relation was found between FFQ-estimated genistein intake and serum levels. The FFQ developed is a reliable, valid tool for categorising people by level of genistein intake.

Zn2+ selectively stabilizes FdU-substituted DNA through a unique major groove binding motif

PubMed Central

Ghosh, Supratim; Salsbury, Freddie R.; Horita, David A.; Gmeiner, William H.

2011-01-01

We report, based on semi-empirical calculations, that Zn2+ binds duplex DNA containing consecutive FdU–dA base pairs in the major groove with distorted trigonal bipyramidal geometry. In this previously uncharacterized binding motif, O4 and F5 on consecutive FdU are axial ligands while three water molecules complete the coordination sphere. NMR spectroscopy confirmed Zn2+ complexation occurred with maintenance of base pairing while a slight hypsochromic shift in circular dichroism (CD) spectra indicated moderate structural distortion relative to B-form DNA. Zn2+ complexation inhibited ethidium bromide (EtBr) intercalation and stabilized FdU-substituted duplex DNA (ΔTm > 15°C). Mg2+ neither inhibited EtBr complexation nor had as strong of a stabilizing effect. DNA sequences that did not contain consecutive FdU were not stabilized by Zn2+. A lipofectamine preparation of the Zn2+–DNA complex displayed enhanced cytotoxicity toward prostate cancer cells relative to the individual components prepared as lipofectamine complexes indicating the potential utility of Zn2+–DNA complexes for cancer treatment. PMID:21296761

fd3: Spectral disentangling of double-lined spectroscopic binary stars

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ilijić, Saša

2017-05-01

The spectral disentangling technique can be applied on a time series of observed spectra of a spectroscopic double-lined binary star (SB2) to determine the parameters of orbit and reconstruct the spectra of component stars, without the use of template spectra. fd3 disentangles the spectra of SB2 stars, capable also of resolving the possible third companion. It performs the separation of spectra in the Fourier space which is faster, but in several respects less versatile than the wavelength-space separation. (Wavelength-space separation is implemented in the twin code CRES.) fd3 is written in C and is designed as a command-line utility for a Unix-like operating system. fd3 is a new version of FDBinary (ascl:1705.011), which is now deprecated.

Characterization of the key aroma compounds in dried fruits of the West African peppertree Xylopia aethiopica (Dunal) A. Rich (Annonaceae) using aroma extract dilution analysis.

PubMed

Tairu, A O; Hofmann, T; Schieberle, P

1999-08-01

Application of aroma extract dilution analysis on an extract of the dried fruits of the West African peppertree Xylopia aethiopica obtained by extraction with diethyl ether followed by sublimation in vacuo revealed 28 odor-active compounds in the flavor dilution (FD) factor range of 4-8192, all of which could be identified. The highest FD factor was found for linalol (floral), followed by (E)-beta-ocimene (flowery), alpha-farnesene (sweet, flowery), beta-pinene (terpeny), alpha-pinene (pine needle-like), myrtenol (flowery), and beta-phellandrene (terpeny). Vanillin (vanilla-like) and 3-ethylphenol (smoky, phenolic) showing somewhat lower FD factors (FD = 128) were detected for the first time as constituents of the dried fruit.

Hybrid time-frequency domain equalization based on sign-sign joint decision multimodulus algorithm for 6 × 6 mode division multiplexing system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Jiao; Hu, Guijun; Gong, Caili; Li, Li

2018-02-01

In this paper, we propose a hybrid time-frequency domain sign-sign joint decision multimodulus algorithm (Hybrid-SJDMMA) for mode-demultiplexing in a 6 × 6 mode division multiplexing (MDM) system with high-order QAM modulation. The equalization performance of Hybrid-SJDMMA was evaluated and compared with the frequency domain multimodulus algorithm (FD-MMA) and the hybrid time-frequency domain sign-sign multimodulus algorithm (Hybrid-SMMA). Simulation results revealed that Hybrid-SJDMMA exhibits a significantly lower computational complexity than FD-MMA, and its convergence speed is similar to that of FD-MMA. Additionally, the bit-error-rate performance of Hybrid-SJDMMA was obviously better than FD-MMA and Hybrid-SMMA for 16 QAM and 64 QAM.

Traits Without Borders: Integrating Functional Diversity Across Scales.

PubMed

Carmona, Carlos P; de Bello, Francesco; Mason, Norman W H; Lepš, Jan

2016-05-01

Owing to the conceptual complexity of functional diversity (FD), a multitude of different methods are available for measuring it, with most being operational at only a small range of spatial scales. This causes uncertainty in ecological interpretations and limits the potential to generalize findings across studies or compare patterns across scales. We solve this problem by providing a unified framework expanding on and integrating existing approaches. The framework, based on trait probability density (TPD), is the first to fully implement the Hutchinsonian concept of the niche as a probabilistic hypervolume in estimating FD. This novel approach could revolutionize FD-based research by allowing quantification of the various FD components from organismal to macroecological scales, and allowing seamless transitions between scales. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Factitious Disorder Presenting with Stuttering in Two Adolescents: The Importance of Psychoeducation.

PubMed

Bolat, Nurullah; Yalçin, Özhan

2017-03-01

A factitious disorder (FD) is a diagnostic entity in which patients intentionally act physically or mentally ill without obvious benefits and without being consciously aware of a clear underlying motive. Most pediatric FD cases have been reported as Munchausen syndrome by Proxy; however, pediatric disease symptoms can also be intentionally falsified by child and adolescent patients. To our knowledge, in the medical literature, an FD patient presenting with stuttering has not been previously reported. In this case report, we aimed to discuss the diagnosis and treatment process of FDs in children and adolescents by reporting the cases of two FD patients presenting with stuttering according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-Fifth Edition. Both patients improved with psychoeducation and early confrontation.

In situ crosslinked smart polypeptide nanoparticles for multistage responsive tumor-targeted drug delivery

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yi, Huqiang; Liu, Peng; Sheng, Nan; Gong, Ping; Ma, Yifan; Cai, Lintao

2016-03-01

Smart tumor-targeted drug delivery is crucial for improving the effect of chemotherapy and reducing the adverse effects. Here, we synthesized a smart polypeptide copolymer based on n-butylamine-poly(l-lysine)-b-poly(l-cysteine) (PLL-PLC) with functionalization of folic acid (FA) and 1,2-dicarboxylic-cyclohexene anhydride (DCA) for multistage responsive tumor-targeted drug delivery. The copolymers (FA-PLL(DCA)-PLC) spontaneously crosslinked in situ to form redox and pH dual responsive FA-PLL(DCA)-PLC nanoparticles (FD-NPs), which had a reversible zeta potential around -30 mV at pH 7.4, but switched to +15 mV at pH 5.0. Moreover, FD-NPs effectively loaded DOX with a loading capacity at 15.7 wt%. At pH 7.4, only 24.5% DOX was released within 60 h. However, at pH 5.0, the presence of 10 mM DTT dramatically accelerated DOX release with over 90% of DOX released within 10 h. Although the FD-NPs only enhanced DOX uptake in FA receptor positive (FR+) cancer cells at pH 7.4, a weak acidic condition promoted FD-NP-facilitated DOX uptake in both FR+ HeLa and FR- A549 cells, as well as significantly improving cellular binding and end/lysosomal escape. In vivo studies in a HeLa cancer model demonstrated that the charge-reversible FD-NPs delivered DOX into tumors more effectively than charge-irreversible nanoparticles. Hence, these multistage responsive FD-NPs would serve as highly efficient drug vectors for targeted cancer chemotherapy.Smart tumor-targeted drug delivery is crucial for improving the effect of chemotherapy and reducing the adverse effects. Here, we synthesized a smart polypeptide copolymer based on n-butylamine-poly(l-lysine)-b-poly(l-cysteine) (PLL-PLC) with functionalization of folic acid (FA) and 1,2-dicarboxylic-cyclohexene anhydride (DCA) for multistage responsive tumor-targeted drug delivery. The copolymers (FA-PLL(DCA)-PLC) spontaneously crosslinked in situ to form redox and pH dual responsive FA-PLL(DCA)-PLC nanoparticles (FD-NPs), which had a reversible zeta potential around -30 mV at pH 7.4, but switched to +15 mV at pH 5.0. Moreover, FD-NPs effectively loaded DOX with a loading capacity at 15.7 wt%. At pH 7.4, only 24.5% DOX was released within 60 h. However, at pH 5.0, the presence of 10 mM DTT dramatically accelerated DOX release with over 90% of DOX released within 10 h. Although the FD-NPs only enhanced DOX uptake in FA receptor positive (FR+) cancer cells at pH 7.4, a weak acidic condition promoted FD-NP-facilitated DOX uptake in both FR+ HeLa and FR- A549 cells, as well as significantly improving cellular binding and end/lysosomal escape. In vivo studies in a HeLa cancer model demonstrated that the charge-reversible FD-NPs delivered DOX into tumors more effectively than charge-irreversible nanoparticles. Hence, these multistage responsive FD-NPs would serve as highly efficient drug vectors for targeted cancer chemotherapy. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available. See DOI: 10.1039/c5nr07348k