Sample records for group diffie-hellman keyexchange

  1. Enhanced diffie-hellman algorithm for reliable key exchange

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Aryan; Kumar, Chaithanya; Vincent, P. M. Durai Raj

    2017-11-01

    The Diffie -Hellman is one of the first public-key procedure and is a certain way of exchanging the cryptographic keys securely. This concept was introduced by Ralph Markel and it is named after Whitfield Diffie and Martin Hellman. Sender and Receiver make a common secret key in Diffie-Hellman algorithm and then they start communicating with each other over the public channel which is known to everyone. A number of internet services are secured by Diffie -Hellman. In Public key cryptosystem, the sender has to trust while receiving the public key of the receiver and vice-versa and this is the challenge of public key cryptosystem. Man-in-the-Middle attack is very much possible on the existing Diffie-Hellman algorithm. In man-in-the-middle attack, the attacker exists in the public channel, the attacker receives the public key of both sender and receiver and sends public keys to sender and receiver which is generated by his own. This is how man-in-the-middle attack is possible on Diffie-Hellman algorithm. Denial of service attack is another attack which is found common on Diffie-Hellman. In this attack, the attacker tries to stop the communication happening between sender and receiver and attacker can do this by deleting messages or by confusing the parties with miscommunication. Some more attacks like Insider attack, Outsider attack, etc are possible on Diffie-Hellman. To reduce the possibility of attacks on Diffie-Hellman algorithm, we have enhanced the Diffie-Hellman algorithm to a next level. In this paper, we are extending the Diffie -Hellman algorithm by using the concept of the Diffie -Hellman algorithm to get a stronger secret key and that secret key is further exchanged between the sender and the receiver so that for each message, a new secret shared key would be generated. The second secret key will be generated by taking primitive root of the first secret key.

  2. Strong Password-Based Authentication in TLS Using the Three-PartyGroup Diffie-Hellman Protocol

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

    Abdalla, Michel; Bresson, Emmanuel; Chevassut, Olivier

    2006-08-26

    The Internet has evolved into a very hostile ecosystem where"phishing'' attacks are common practice. This paper shows that thethree-party group Diffie-Hellman key exchange can help protect againstthese attacks. We have developed a suite of password-based cipher suitesfor the Transport Layer Security (TLS) protocol that are not onlyprovably secure but also assumed to be free from patent and licensingrestrictions based on an analysis of relevant patents in thearea.

  3. Provably Secure Password-based Authentication in TLS

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

    Abdalla, Michel; Emmanuel, Bresson; Chevassut, Olivier

    2005-12-20

    In this paper, we show how to design an efficient, provably secure password-based authenticated key exchange mechanism specifically for the TLS (Transport Layer Security) protocol. The goal is to provide a technique that allows users to employ (short) passwords to securely identify themselves to servers. As our main contribution, we describe a new password-based technique for user authentication in TLS, called Simple Open Key Exchange (SOKE). Loosely speaking, the SOKE ciphersuites are unauthenticated Diffie-Hellman ciphersuites in which the client's Diffie-Hellman ephemeral public value is encrypted using a simple mask generation function. The mask is simply a constant value raised tomore » the power of (a hash of) the password.The SOKE ciphersuites, in advantage over previous pass-word-based authentication ciphersuites for TLS, combine the following features. First, SOKE has formal security arguments; the proof of security based on the computational Diffie-Hellman assumption is in the random oracle model, and holds for concurrent executions and for arbitrarily large password dictionaries. Second, SOKE is computationally efficient; in particular, it only needs operations in a sufficiently large prime-order subgroup for its Diffie-Hellman computations (no safe primes). Third, SOKE provides good protocol flexibility because the user identity and password are only required once a SOKE ciphersuite has actually been negotiated, and after the server has sent a server identity.« less

  4. Implementing Diffie-Hellman key exchange using quantum EPR pairs

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mandal, Sayonnha; Parakh, Abhishek

    2015-05-01

    This paper implements the concepts of perfect forward secrecy and the Diffie-Hellman key exchange using EPR pairs to establish and share a secret key between two non-authenticated parties and transfer messages between them without the risk of compromise. Current implementations of quantum cryptography are based on the BB84 protocol, which is susceptible to siphoning attacks on the multiple photons emitted by practical laser sources. This makes BB84-based quantum cryptography protocol unsuitable for network computing environments. Diffie-Hellman does not require the two parties to be mutually authenticated to each other, yet it can provide a basis for a number of authenticated protocols, most notably the concept of perfect forward secrecy. The work proposed in this paper provides a new direction in utilizing quantum EPR pairs in quantum key exchange. Although, classical cryptography boasts of efficient and robust protocols like the Diffie-Hellman key exchange, in the current times, with the advent of quantum computing they are very much vulnerable to eavesdropping and cryptanalytic attacks. Using quantum cryptographic principles, however, these classical encryption algorithms show more promise and a more robust and secure structure for applications. The unique properties of quantum EPR pairs also, on the other hand, go a long way in removing attacks like eavesdropping by their inherent nature of one particle of the pair losing its state if a measurement occurs on the other. The concept of perfect forward secrecy is revisited in this paper to attribute tighter security to the proposed protocol.

  5. On the security of a novel probabilistic signature based on bilinear square Diffie-Hellman problem and its extension.

    PubMed

    Zhao, Zhenguo; Shi, Wenbo

    2014-01-01

    Probabilistic signature scheme has been widely used in modern electronic commerce since it could provide integrity, authenticity, and nonrepudiation. Recently, Wu and Lin proposed a novel probabilistic signature (PS) scheme using the bilinear square Diffie-Hellman (BSDH) problem. They also extended it to a universal designated verifier signature (UDVS) scheme. In this paper, we analyze the security of Wu et al.'s PS scheme and UDVS scheme. Through concrete attacks, we demonstrate both of their schemes are not unforgeable. The security analysis shows that their schemes are not suitable for practical applications.

  6. On the Security of a Novel Probabilistic Signature Based on Bilinear Square Diffie-Hellman Problem and Its Extension

    PubMed Central

    Zhao, Zhenguo; Shi, Wenbo

    2014-01-01

    Probabilistic signature scheme has been widely used in modern electronic commerce since it could provide integrity, authenticity, and nonrepudiation. Recently, Wu and Lin proposed a novel probabilistic signature (PS) scheme using the bilinear square Diffie-Hellman (BSDH) problem. They also extended it to a universal designated verifier signature (UDVS) scheme. In this paper, we analyze the security of Wu et al.'s PS scheme and UDVS scheme. Through concrete attacks, we demonstrate both of their schemes are not unforgeable. The security analysis shows that their schemes are not suitable for practical applications. PMID:25025083

  7. Searchable attribute-based encryption scheme with attribute revocation in cloud storage.

    PubMed

    Wang, Shangping; Zhao, Duqiao; Zhang, Yaling

    2017-01-01

    Attribute based encryption (ABE) is a good way to achieve flexible and secure access control to data, and attribute revocation is the extension of the attribute-based encryption, and the keyword search is an indispensable part for cloud storage. The combination of both has an important application in the cloud storage. In this paper, we construct a searchable attribute-based encryption scheme with attribute revocation in cloud storage, the keyword search in our scheme is attribute based with access control, when the search succeeds, the cloud server returns the corresponding cipher text to user and the user can decrypt the cipher text definitely. Besides, our scheme supports multiple keywords search, which makes the scheme more practical. Under the assumption of decisional bilinear Diffie-Hellman exponent (q-BDHE) and decisional Diffie-Hellman (DDH) in the selective security model, we prove that our scheme is secure.

  8. New public key cryptosystem based on quaternions

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Durcheva, Mariana; Karailiev, Kristian

    2017-12-01

    Quaternions are not commonly used in cryptography. Nevertheless, the noncommutativity of their multiplication makes them suitable for cryptographic purposes. In this paper we suggest a Diffie-Hellman like cryptosystem based on the the quaternions. Additionally, a computer realization of the protocol is given.

  9. Secure medical information sharing in cloud computing.

    PubMed

    Shao, Zhiyi; Yang, Bo; Zhang, Wenzheng; Zhao, Yi; Wu, Zhenqiang; Miao, Meixia

    2015-01-01

    Medical information sharing is one of the most attractive applications of cloud computing, where searchable encryption is a fascinating solution for securely and conveniently sharing medical data among different medical organizers. However, almost all previous works are designed in symmetric key encryption environment. The only works in public key encryption do not support keyword trapdoor security, have long ciphertext related to the number of receivers, do not support receiver revocation without re-encrypting, and do not preserve the membership of receivers. In this paper, we propose a searchable encryption supporting multiple receivers for medical information sharing based on bilinear maps in public key encryption environment. In the proposed protocol, data owner stores only one copy of his encrypted file and its corresponding encrypted keywords on cloud for multiple designated receivers. The keyword ciphertext is significantly shorter and its length is constant without relation to the number of designated receivers, i.e., for n receivers the ciphertext length is only twice the element length in the group. Only the owner knows that with whom his data is shared, and the access to his data is still under control after having been put on the cloud. We formally prove the security of keyword ciphertext based on the intractability of Bilinear Diffie-Hellman problem and the keyword trapdoor based on Decisional Diffie-Hellman problem.

  10. Delay and cost performance analysis of the diffie-hellman key exchange protocol in opportunistic mobile networks

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Soelistijanto, B.; Muliadi, V.

    2018-03-01

    Diffie-Hellman (DH) provides an efficient key exchange system by reducing the number of cryptographic keys distributed in the network. In this method, a node broadcasts a single public key to all nodes in the network, and in turn each peer uses this key to establish a shared secret key which then can be utilized to encrypt and decrypt traffic between the peer and the given node. In this paper, we evaluate the key transfer delay and cost performance of DH in opportunistic mobile networks, a specific scenario of MANETs where complete end-to-end paths rarely exist between sources and destinations; consequently, the end-to-end delays in these networks are much greater than typical MANETs. Simulation results, driven by a random node movement model and real human mobility traces, showed that DH outperforms a typical key distribution scheme based on the RSA algorithm in terms of key transfer delay, measured by average key convergence time; however, DH performs as well as the benchmark in terms of key transfer cost, evaluated by total key (copies) forwards.

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

    Brickell, E.F.; Simmons, G.J.

    In the period since 1976, when Diffie and Hellman published the first discussion of two-key cryptography to appear in the open literature, only a handful of two-key cryptoalgorithms have been proposed - two of which are based on the knapsack problem. Consequently there was enormous interest when Shamir announced in early 1982 a cryptanalytic technique that could break many Merkle-Hellman knapsacks. In a rapid sequence of developments, Simmons and Brickell, Adleman, and Lagarias all announced other attacks on knapsack-based cryptosystems that were either computationally much more efficient or else directed at other knapsack schemes such as the Graham-Shamir or iteratedmore » systems. This paper analyzes the common features of knapsack-based cryptosystems and presents all of the cryptanalytic attacks made in 1982 from a unified viewpoint.« less

  12. Identity-Based Verifiably Encrypted Signatures without Random Oracles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhang, Lei; Wu, Qianhong; Qin, Bo

    Fair exchange protocol plays an important role in electronic commerce in the case of exchanging digital contracts. Verifiably encrypted signatures provide an optimistic solution to these scenarios with an off-line trusted third party. In this paper, we propose an identity-based verifiably encrypted signature scheme. The scheme is non-interactive to generate verifiably encrypted signatures and the resulting encrypted signature consists of only four group elements. Based on the computational Diffie-Hellman assumption, our scheme is proven secure without using random oracles. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first identity-based verifiably encrypted signature scheme provably secure in the standard model.

  13. Formal Methods for Cryptographic Protocol Analysis: Emerging Issues and Trends

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2003-01-01

    signatures , which depend upon the homomor- phic properties of RSA. Other algorithms and data structures, such as Chaum mixes [17], designed for...Communications Security, pages 176–185. ACM, Novem- ber 2001. [17] D. Chaum . Untraceable electronic mail, return addresses and digital signatures ...something like the Diffie- Hellman algorithm, which depends, as a minimum, on the commutative properties of exponentiation, or something like Chaum’s blinded

  14. Employing a Secure Virtual Private Network (VPN) Infrastructure as a Global Command and Control Gateway to Dynamically Connect and Disconnect Diverse Forces an a Task-Force-By-Task-Force Basis

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2009-09-01

    DIFFIE-HELLMAN KEY EXCHANGE .......................14 III. GHOSTNET SETUP .........................................15 A. INSTALLATION OF OPENVPN FOR...16 3. Verifying the Secure Connection ..............16 B. RUNNING OPENVPN AS A SERVER ON WINDOWS ............17 1. Creating...Generating Server and Client Keys ............20 5. Keys to Transfer to the Client ...............21 6. Configuring OpenVPN to Use Certificates

  15. Assumptions, Trust, and Names in Computer Security Protocols

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2011-06-01

    sharing her banking credentials with a criminal, which is clearly bad . But PKI proto- cols like this one can be used in other, less risky ways. Suppose...Figure 4.5. This is similar to a failure of PKI-based protocols in which the authority signs a bad certificate. But the interesting thing is how the... Zoo Figure 4.6: Using AdultVerify. The run is as follows: 1. As the first step in Diffie-Hellman Key Exchange, Alice picks and sends the

  16. Security Proof for Password Authentication in TLS-Verifier-based Three-Party Group Diffie-Hellman

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

    Chevassut, Olivier; Milner, Joseph; Pointcheval, David

    2008-04-21

    The internet has grown greatly in the past decade, by some numbers exceeding 47 million active web sites and a total aggregate exceeding100 million web sites. What is common practice today on the Internet is that servers have public keys, but clients are largely authenticated via short passwords. Protecting these passwords by not storing them in the clear on institutions's servers has become a priority. This paper develops password-based ciphersuites for the Transport Layer Security (TLS) protocol that are: (1) resistant to server compromise; (2) provably secure; (3) believed to be free from patent and licensing restrictions based on anmore » analysis of relevant patents in the area.« less

  17. Using Sphinx to Improve Onion Routing Circuit Construction

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kate, Aniket; Goldberg, Ian

    This paper presents compact message formats for onion routing circuit construction using the Sphinx methodology developed for mixes. We significantly compress the circuit construction messages for three onion routing protocols that have emerged as enhancements to the Tor anonymizing network; namely, Tor with predistributed Diffie-Hellman values, pairing-based onion routing, and certificateless onion routing. Our new circuit constructions are also secure in the universal composability framework, a property that was missing from the original constructions. Further, we compare the performance of our schemes with their older counterparts as well as with each other.

  18. Characterizing the Efficacy of the NRL Network Pump in Mitigating Covert Timing Channels

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2012-02-01

    of Diffie-Hellman, RSA, DSS, and other systems,” in Advances in CryptologyCRYPTO96. Springer, 1996, pp. 104–113. [16] D . Chaum , “Blind signatures for...transmits Xi = ei(W ) across the channel. The decoder takes the channel outputs Y n and forms an estimate of the original message Ŵ = d (Y n). To...communicate W reliably, it can be shown that the “essence” of this problem is to design e(·) and subsequently d (·) to maximize the mutual information I(W ;Y n

  19. Usage of the hybrid encryption in a cloud instant messages exchange system

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kvyetnyy, Roman N.; Romanyuk, Olexander N.; Titarchuk, Evgenii O.; Gromaszek, Konrad; Mussabekov, Nazarbek

    2016-09-01

    A new approach for constructing cloud instant messaging represented in this article allows users to encrypt data locally by using Diffie - Hellman key exchange protocol. The described approach allows to construct a cloud service which operates only by users encrypted messages; encryption and decryption takes place locally at the user party using a symmetric AES encryption. A feature of the service is the conferences support without the need for messages reecryption for each participant. In the article it is given an example of the protocol implementation on the ECC and RSA encryption algorithms basis, as well as a comparison of these implementations.

  20. Server-Controlled Identity-Based Authenticated Key Exchange

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Guo, Hua; Mu, Yi; Zhang, Xiyong; Li, Zhoujun

    We present a threshold identity-based authenticated key exchange protocol that can be applied to an authenticated server-controlled gateway-user key exchange. The objective is to allow a user and a gateway to establish a shared session key with the permission of the back-end servers, while the back-end servers cannot obtain any information about the established session key. Our protocol has potential applications in strong access control of confidential resources. In particular, our protocol possesses the semantic security and demonstrates several highly-desirable security properties such as key privacy and transparency. We prove the security of the protocol based on the Bilinear Diffie-Hellman assumption in the random oracle model.

  1. Multivariate Cryptography Based on Clipped Hopfield Neural Network.

    PubMed

    Wang, Jia; Cheng, Lee-Ming; Su, Tong

    2018-02-01

    Designing secure and efficient multivariate public key cryptosystems [multivariate cryptography (MVC)] to strengthen the security of RSA and ECC in conventional and quantum computational environment continues to be a challenging research in recent years. In this paper, we will describe multivariate public key cryptosystems based on extended Clipped Hopfield Neural Network (CHNN) and implement it using the MVC (CHNN-MVC) framework operated in space. The Diffie-Hellman key exchange algorithm is extended into the matrix field, which illustrates the feasibility of its new applications in both classic and postquantum cryptography. The efficiency and security of our proposed new public key cryptosystem CHNN-MVC are simulated and found to be NP-hard. The proposed algorithm will strengthen multivariate public key cryptosystems and allows hardware realization practicality.

  2. A Secured Authentication Protocol for SIP Using Elliptic Curves Cryptography

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chen, Tien-Ho; Yeh, Hsiu-Lien; Liu, Pin-Chuan; Hsiang, Han-Chen; Shih, Wei-Kuan

    Session initiation protocol (SIP) is a technology regularly performed in Internet Telephony, and Hyper Text Transport Protocol (HTTP) as digest authentication is one of the major methods for SIP authentication mechanism. In 2005, Yang et al. pointed out that HTTP could not resist server spoofing attack and off-line guessing attack and proposed a secret authentication with Diffie-Hellman concept. In 2009, Tsai proposed a nonce based authentication protocol for SIP. In this paper, we demonstrate that their protocol could not resist the password guessing attack and insider attack. Furthermore, we propose an ECC-based authentication mechanism to solve their issues and present security analysis of our protocol to show that ours is suitable for applications with higher security requirement.

  3. Secure SCADA communication by using a modified key management scheme.

    PubMed

    Rezai, Abdalhossein; Keshavarzi, Parviz; Moravej, Zahra

    2013-07-01

    This paper presents and evaluates a new cryptographic key management scheme which increases the efficiency and security of the Supervisory Control And Data Acquisition (SCADA) communication. In the proposed key management scheme, two key update phases are used: session key update and master key update. In the session key update phase, session keys are generated in the master station. In the master key update phase, the Elliptic Curve Diffie-Hellman (ECDH) protocol is used. The Poisson process is also used to model the Security Index (SI) and Quality of Service (QoS). Our analysis shows that the proposed key management not only supports the required speed in the MODBUS implementation but also has several advantages compared to other key management schemes for secure communication in SCADA networks. Copyright © 2013 ISA. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  4. An Enhanced Privacy-Preserving Authentication Scheme for Vehicle Sensor Networks.

    PubMed

    Zhou, Yousheng; Zhao, Xiaofeng; Jiang, Yi; Shang, Fengjun; Deng, Shaojiang; Wang, Xiaojun

    2017-12-08

    Vehicle sensor networks (VSNs) are ushering in a promising future by enabling more intelligent transportation systems and providing a more efficient driving experience. However, because of their inherent openness, VSNs are subject to a large number of potential security threats. Although various authentication schemes have been proposed for addressing security problems, they are not suitable for VSN applications because of their high computation and communication costs. Chuang and Lee have developed a trust-extended authentication mechanism (TEAM) for vehicle-to-vehicle communication using a transitive trust relationship, which they claim can resist various attacks. However, it fails to counter internal attacks because of the utilization of a shared secret key. In this paper, to eliminate the vulnerability of TEAM, an enhanced privacy-preserving authentication scheme for VSNs is constructed. The security of our proposed scheme is proven under the random oracle model based on the assumption of the computational Diffie-Hellman problem.

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

    Coleman, Jody Rustyn; Poland, Richard W.

    A system and method for the secure storage and transmission of data is provided. A data aggregate device can be configured to receive secure data from a data source, such as a sensor, and encrypt the secure data using a suitable encryption technique, such as a shared private key technique, a public key encryption technique, a Diffie-Hellman key exchange technique, or other suitable encryption technique. The encrypted secure data can be provided from the data aggregate device to different remote devices over a plurality of segregated or isolated data paths. Each of the isolated data paths can include an optoisolatormore » that is configured to provide one-way transmission of the encrypted secure data from the data aggregate device over the isolated data path. External data can be received through a secure data filter which, by validating the external data, allows for key exchange and other various adjustments from an external source.« less

  6. Authenticated sensor interface device

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

    Coleman, Jody Rustyn; Poland, Richard W.

    A system and method for the secure storage and transmission of data is provided. A data aggregate device can be configured to receive secure data from a data source, such as a sensor, and encrypt the secure data using a suitable encryption technique, such as a shared private key technique, a public key encryption technique, a Diffie-Hellman key exchange technique, or other suitable encryption technique. The encrypted secure data can be provided from the data aggregate device to different remote devices over a plurality of segregated or isolated data paths. Each of the isolated data paths can include an optoisolatormore » that is configured to provide one-way transmission of the encrypted secure data from the data aggregate device over the isolated data path. External data can be received through a secure data filter which, by validating the external data, allows for key exchange and other various adjustments from an external source.« less

  7. Authentication Based on Non-Interactive Zero-Knowledge Proofs for the Internet of Things.

    PubMed

    Martín-Fernández, Francisco; Caballero-Gil, Pino; Caballero-Gil, Cándido

    2016-01-07

    This paper describes the design and analysis of a new scheme for the authenticated exchange of confidential information in insecure environments within the Internet of Things, which allows a receiver of a message to authenticate the sender and compute a secret key shared with it. The proposal is based on the concept of a non-interactive zero-knowledge proof, so that in a single communication, relevant data may be inferred to verify the legitimacy of the sender. Besides, the new scheme uses the idea under the Diffie-Hellman protocol for the establishment of a shared secret key. The proposal has been fully developed for platforms built on the Android Open Source Project, so it can be used in any device or sensor with this operating system. This work provides a performance study of the implementation and a comparison between its promising results and others obtained with similar schemes.

  8. A Round-Efficient Authenticated Key Agreement Scheme Based on Extended Chaotic Maps for Group Cloud Meeting.

    PubMed

    Lin, Tsung-Hung; Tsung, Chen-Kun; Lee, Tian-Fu; Wang, Zeng-Bo

    2017-12-03

    The security is a critical issue for business purposes. For example, the cloud meeting must consider strong security to maintain the communication privacy. Considering the scenario with cloud meeting, we apply extended chaotic map to present passwordless group authentication key agreement, termed as Passwordless Group Authentication Key Agreement (PL-GAKA). PL-GAKA improves the computation efficiency for the simple group password-based authenticated key agreement (SGPAKE) proposed by Lee et al. in terms of computing the session key. Since the extended chaotic map has equivalent security level to the Diffie-Hellman key exchange scheme applied by SGPAKE, the security of PL-GAKA is not sacrificed when improving the computation efficiency. Moreover, PL-GAKA is a passwordless scheme, so the password maintenance is not necessary. Short-term authentication is considered, hence the communication security is stronger than other protocols by dynamically generating session key in each cloud meeting. In our analysis, we first prove that each meeting member can get the correct information during the meeting. We analyze common security issues for the proposed PL-GAKA in terms of session key security, mutual authentication, perfect forward security, and data integrity. Moreover, we also demonstrate that communicating in PL-GAKA is secure when suffering replay attacks, impersonation attacks, privileged insider attacks, and stolen-verifier attacks. Eventually, an overall comparison is given to show the performance between PL-GAKA, SGPAKE and related solutions.

  9. Secure open cloud in data transmission using reference pattern and identity with enhanced remote privacy checking

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Vijay Singh, Ran; Agilandeeswari, L.

    2017-11-01

    To handle the large amount of client’s data in open cloud lots of security issues need to be address. Client’s privacy should not be known to other group members without data owner’s valid permission. Sometime clients are fended to have accessing with open cloud servers due to some restrictions. To overcome the security issues and these restrictions related to storing, data sharing in an inter domain network and privacy checking, we propose a model in this paper which is based on an identity based cryptography in data transmission and intermediate entity which have client’s reference with identity that will take control handling of data transmission in an open cloud environment and an extended remote privacy checking technique which will work at admin side. On behalf of data owner’s authority this proposed model will give best options to have secure cryptography in data transmission and remote privacy checking either as private or public or instructed. The hardness of Computational Diffie-Hellman assumption algorithm for key exchange makes this proposed model more secure than existing models which are being used for public cloud environment.

  10. Formal Modeling of Diffie-Hellman Derivability for Exploratory Automated Analysis

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2013-06-01

    monomials (displayed as a column vector for readability): (23) MA(x̄) =  MA1(x̄) MA2 (x̄) ... MAr (x̄)  =  xα111 x α12 2 · · ·xα1nn xα211 x...ȳ β̄ ∈ F[y1, . . . , yr] and A ∈ Mr×n(Z) is such that P (MA1(x̄), MA2 (x̄), . . . ,MAr (x̄)) = 0 then for every γ̄, (28) ∑ β̄·A=γ̄ cβ̄ = 0. An...Corollary 8.3. Suppose (29) R(ȳ) = ∑ β̄ cβ̄Mβ̄(ȳ)∑ β̄ dβ̄Mβ̄(ȳ) ∈ F(y1, . . . , yr), A ∈Mr×n(Z) and γ̄ ∈M1×n(Z) are such that (30) R (MA1(x̄), MA2

  11. Secure privacy-preserving biometric authentication scheme for telecare medicine information systems.

    PubMed

    Li, Xuelei; Wen, Qiaoyan; Li, Wenmin; Zhang, Hua; Jin, Zhengping

    2014-11-01

    Healthcare delivery services via telecare medicine information systems (TMIS) can help patients to obtain their desired telemedicine services conveniently. However, information security and privacy protection are important issues and crucial challenges in healthcare information systems, where only authorized patients and doctors can employ telecare medicine facilities and access electronic medical records. Therefore, a secure authentication scheme is urgently required to achieve the goals of entity authentication, data confidentiality and privacy protection. This paper investigates a new biometric authentication with key agreement scheme, which focuses on patient privacy and medical data confidentiality in TMIS. The new scheme employs hash function, fuzzy extractor, nonce and authenticated Diffie-Hellman key agreement as primitives. It provides patient privacy protection, e.g., hiding identity from being theft and tracked by unauthorized participant, and preserving password and biometric template from being compromised by trustless servers. Moreover, key agreement supports secure transmission by symmetric encryption to protect patient's medical data from being leaked. Finally, the analysis shows that our proposal provides more security and privacy protection for TMIS.

  12. A keyword searchable attribute-based encryption scheme with attribute update for cloud storage.

    PubMed

    Wang, Shangping; Ye, Jian; Zhang, Yaling

    2018-01-01

    Ciphertext-policy attribute-based encryption (CP-ABE) scheme is a new type of data encryption primitive, which is very suitable for data cloud storage for its fine-grained access control. Keyword-based searchable encryption scheme enables users to quickly find interesting data stored in the cloud server without revealing any information of the searched keywords. In this work, we provide a keyword searchable attribute-based encryption scheme with attribute update for cloud storage, which is a combination of attribute-based encryption scheme and keyword searchable encryption scheme. The new scheme supports the user's attribute update, especially in our new scheme when a user's attribute need to be updated, only the user's secret key related with the attribute need to be updated, while other user's secret key and the ciphertexts related with this attribute need not to be updated with the help of the cloud server. In addition, we outsource the operation with high computation cost to cloud server to reduce the user's computational burden. Moreover, our scheme is proven to be semantic security against chosen ciphertext-policy and chosen plaintext attack in the general bilinear group model. And our scheme is also proven to be semantic security against chosen keyword attack under bilinear Diffie-Hellman (BDH) assumption.

  13. A keyword searchable attribute-based encryption scheme with attribute update for cloud storage

    PubMed Central

    Wang, Shangping; Zhang, Yaling

    2018-01-01

    Ciphertext-policy attribute-based encryption (CP-ABE) scheme is a new type of data encryption primitive, which is very suitable for data cloud storage for its fine-grained access control. Keyword-based searchable encryption scheme enables users to quickly find interesting data stored in the cloud server without revealing any information of the searched keywords. In this work, we provide a keyword searchable attribute-based encryption scheme with attribute update for cloud storage, which is a combination of attribute-based encryption scheme and keyword searchable encryption scheme. The new scheme supports the user's attribute update, especially in our new scheme when a user's attribute need to be updated, only the user's secret key related with the attribute need to be updated, while other user's secret key and the ciphertexts related with this attribute need not to be updated with the help of the cloud server. In addition, we outsource the operation with high computation cost to cloud server to reduce the user's computational burden. Moreover, our scheme is proven to be semantic security against chosen ciphertext-policy and chosen plaintext attack in the general bilinear group model. And our scheme is also proven to be semantic security against chosen keyword attack under bilinear Diffie-Hellman (BDH) assumption. PMID:29795577

  14. A Provably-Secure Transmission Scheme for Wireless Body Area Networks.

    PubMed

    Omala, Anyembe Andrew; Robert, Niyifasha; Li, Fagen

    2016-11-01

    Wireless body area network (WBANs) is composed of sensors that collect and transmit a person's physiological data to health-care providers in real-time. In order to guarantee security of this data over open networks, a secure data transmission mechanism between WBAN and application provider's servers is of necessity. Modified medical data does not provide a true reflection of an individuals state of health and its subsequent use for diagnosis could lead to an irreversible medical condition. In this paper, we propose a lightweight certificateless signcryption scheme for secure transmission of data between WBAN and servers. Our proposed scheme not only provides confidentiality of data and authentication in a single logical step, it is lightweight and resistant to key escrow attacks. We further provide security proof that our scheme provides indistinguishability against adaptive chosen ciphertext attack and unforgeability against adaptive chosen message attack in random oracle model. Compared with two other Diffie-Hellman based signcryption schemes proposed by Barbosa and Farshim (BF) and another by Yin and Liang (YL), our scheme consumes 46 % and 8 % less energy during signcryption than BF and YL scheme respectively.

  15. Efficiently Multi-User Searchable Encryption Scheme with Attribute Revocation and Grant for Cloud Storage

    PubMed Central

    Wang, Shangping; Zhang, Xiaoxue; Zhang, Yaling

    2016-01-01

    Cipher-policy attribute-based encryption (CP-ABE) focus on the problem of access control, and keyword-based searchable encryption scheme focus on the problem of finding the files that the user interested in the cloud storage quickly. To design a searchable and attribute-based encryption scheme is a new challenge. In this paper, we propose an efficiently multi-user searchable attribute-based encryption scheme with attribute revocation and grant for cloud storage. In the new scheme the attribute revocation and grant processes of users are delegated to proxy server. Our scheme supports multi attribute are revoked and granted simultaneously. Moreover, the keyword searchable function is achieved in our proposed scheme. The security of our proposed scheme is reduced to the bilinear Diffie-Hellman (BDH) assumption. Furthermore, the scheme is proven to be secure under the security model of indistinguishability against selective ciphertext-policy and chosen plaintext attack (IND-sCP-CPA). And our scheme is also of semantic security under indistinguishability against chosen keyword attack (IND-CKA) in the random oracle model. PMID:27898703

  16. FRR: fair remote retrieval of outsourced private medical records in electronic health networks.

    PubMed

    Wang, Huaqun; Wu, Qianhong; Qin, Bo; Domingo-Ferrer, Josep

    2014-08-01

    Cloud computing is emerging as the next-generation IT architecture. However, cloud computing also raises security and privacy concerns since the users have no physical control over the outsourced data. This paper focuses on fairly retrieving encrypted private medical records outsourced to remote untrusted cloud servers in the case of medical accidents and disputes. Our goal is to enable an independent committee to fairly recover the original private medical records so that medical investigation can be carried out in a convincing way. We achieve this goal with a fair remote retrieval (FRR) model in which either t investigation committee members cooperatively retrieve the original medical data or none of them can get any information on the medical records. We realize the first FRR scheme by exploiting fair multi-member key exchange and homomorphic privately verifiable tags. Based on the standard computational Diffie-Hellman (CDH) assumption, our scheme is provably secure in the random oracle model (ROM). A detailed performance analysis and experimental results show that our scheme is efficient in terms of communication and computation. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  17. Efficiently Multi-User Searchable Encryption Scheme with Attribute Revocation and Grant for Cloud Storage.

    PubMed

    Wang, Shangping; Zhang, Xiaoxue; Zhang, Yaling

    2016-01-01

    Cipher-policy attribute-based encryption (CP-ABE) focus on the problem of access control, and keyword-based searchable encryption scheme focus on the problem of finding the files that the user interested in the cloud storage quickly. To design a searchable and attribute-based encryption scheme is a new challenge. In this paper, we propose an efficiently multi-user searchable attribute-based encryption scheme with attribute revocation and grant for cloud storage. In the new scheme the attribute revocation and grant processes of users are delegated to proxy server. Our scheme supports multi attribute are revoked and granted simultaneously. Moreover, the keyword searchable function is achieved in our proposed scheme. The security of our proposed scheme is reduced to the bilinear Diffie-Hellman (BDH) assumption. Furthermore, the scheme is proven to be secure under the security model of indistinguishability against selective ciphertext-policy and chosen plaintext attack (IND-sCP-CPA). And our scheme is also of semantic security under indistinguishability against chosen keyword attack (IND-CKA) in the random oracle model.

  18. Enhanced smartcard-based password-authenticated key agreement using extended chaotic maps.

    PubMed

    Lee, Tian-Fu; Hsiao, Chia-Hung; Hwang, Shi-Han; Lin, Tsung-Hung

    2017-01-01

    A smartcard based password-authenticated key agreement scheme enables a legal user to log in to a remote authentication server and access remote services through public networks using a weak password and a smart card. Lin recently presented an improved chaotic maps-based password-authenticated key agreement scheme that used smartcards to eliminate the weaknesses of the scheme of Guo and Chang, which does not provide strong user anonymity and violates session key security. However, the improved scheme of Lin does not exhibit the freshness property and the validity of messages so it still fails to withstand denial-of-service and privileged-insider attacks. Additionally, a single malicious participant can predetermine the session key such that the improved scheme does not exhibit the contributory property of key agreements. This investigation discusses these weaknesses and proposes an enhanced smartcard-based password-authenticated key agreement scheme that utilizes extended chaotic maps. The session security of this enhanced scheme is based on the extended chaotic map-based Diffie-Hellman problem, and is proven in the real-or-random and the sequence of games models. Moreover, the enhanced scheme ensures the freshness of communicating messages by appending timestamps, and thereby avoids the weaknesses in previous schemes.

  19. Enhanced smartcard-based password-authenticated key agreement using extended chaotic maps

    PubMed Central

    Lee, Tian-Fu; Hsiao, Chia-Hung; Hwang, Shi-Han

    2017-01-01

    A smartcard based password-authenticated key agreement scheme enables a legal user to log in to a remote authentication server and access remote services through public networks using a weak password and a smart card. Lin recently presented an improved chaotic maps-based password-authenticated key agreement scheme that used smartcards to eliminate the weaknesses of the scheme of Guo and Chang, which does not provide strong user anonymity and violates session key security. However, the improved scheme of Lin does not exhibit the freshness property and the validity of messages so it still fails to withstand denial-of-service and privileged-insider attacks. Additionally, a single malicious participant can predetermine the session key such that the improved scheme does not exhibit the contributory property of key agreements. This investigation discusses these weaknesses and proposes an enhanced smartcard-based password-authenticated key agreement scheme that utilizes extended chaotic maps. The session security of this enhanced scheme is based on the extended chaotic map-based Diffie-Hellman problem, and is proven in the real-or-random and the sequence of games models. Moreover, the enhanced scheme ensures the freshness of communicating messages by appending timestamps, and thereby avoids the weaknesses in previous schemes. PMID:28759615

  20. Key Management Scheme Based on Route Planning of Mobile Sink in Wireless Sensor Networks.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Ying; Liang, Jixing; Zheng, Bingxin; Jiang, Shengming; Chen, Wei

    2016-01-29

    In many wireless sensor network application scenarios the key management scheme with a Mobile Sink (MS) should be fully investigated. This paper proposes a key management scheme based on dynamic clustering and optimal-routing choice of MS. The concept of Traveling Salesman Problem with Neighbor areas (TSPN) in dynamic clustering for data exchange is proposed, and the selection probability is used in MS route planning. The proposed scheme extends static key management to dynamic key management by considering the dynamic clustering and mobility of MSs, which can effectively balance the total energy consumption during the activities. Considering the different resources available to the member nodes and sink node, the session key between cluster head and MS is established by modified an ECC encryption with Diffie-Hellman key exchange (ECDH) algorithm and the session key between member node and cluster head is built with a binary symmetric polynomial. By analyzing the security of data storage, data transfer and the mechanism of dynamic key management, the proposed scheme has more advantages to help improve the resilience of the key management system of the network on the premise of satisfying higher connectivity and storage efficiency.

  1. Extending the IEEE 802.15.4 Security Suite with a Compact Implementation of the NIST P-192/B-163 Elliptic Curves

    PubMed Central

    de la Piedra, Antonio; Braeken, An; Touhafi, Abdellah

    2013-01-01

    Typically, commercial sensor nodes are equipped with MCUsclocked at a low-frequency (i.e., within the 4–12 MHz range). Consequently, executing cryptographic algorithms in those MCUs generally requires a huge amount of time. In this respect, the required energy consumption can be higher than using a separate accelerator based on a Field-programmable Gate Array (FPGA) that is switched on when needed. In this manuscript, we present the design of a cryptographic accelerator suitable for an FPGA-based sensor node and compliant with the IEEE802.15.4 standard. All the embedded resources of the target platform (Xilinx Artix-7) have been maximized in order to provide a cost-effective solution. Moreover, we have added key negotiation capabilities to the IEEE 802.15.4 security suite based on Elliptic Curve Cryptography (ECC;. Our results suggest that tailored accelerators based on FPGA can behave better in terms of energy than contemporary software solutions for motes, such as the TinyECC and NanoECC libraries. In this regard, a point multiplication (PM) can be performed between 8.58- and 15.4-times faster, 3.40- to 23.59-times faster (Elliptic Curve Diffie-Hellman, ECDH) and between 5.45- and 34.26-times faster (Elliptic Curve Integrated Encryption Scheme, ECIES). Moreover, the energy consumption was also improved with a factor of 8.96 (PM). PMID:23899936

  2. A Secure Cloud-Assisted Wireless Body Area Network in Mobile Emergency Medical Care System.

    PubMed

    Li, Chun-Ta; Lee, Cheng-Chi; Weng, Chi-Yao

    2016-05-01

    Recent advances in medical treatment and emergency applications, the need of integrating wireless body area network (WBAN) with cloud computing can be motivated by providing useful and real time information about patients' health state to the doctors and emergency staffs. WBAN is a set of body sensors carried by the patient to collect and transmit numerous health items to medical clouds via wireless and public communication channels. Therefore, a cloud-assisted WBAN facilitates response in case of emergency which can save patients' lives. Since the patient's data is sensitive and private, it is important to provide strong security and protection on the patient's medical data over public and insecure communication channels. In this paper, we address the challenge of participant authentication in mobile emergency medical care systems for patients supervision and propose a secure cloud-assisted architecture for accessing and monitoring health items collected by WBAN. For ensuring a high level of security and providing a mutual authentication property, chaotic maps based authentication and key agreement mechanisms are designed according to the concept of Diffie-Hellman key exchange, which depends on the CMBDLP and CMBDHP problems. Security and performance analyses show how the proposed system guaranteed the patient privacy and the system confidentiality of sensitive medical data while preserving the low computation property in medical treatment and remote medical monitoring.

  3. Extending the IEEE 802.15.4 security suite with a compact implementation of the NIST P-192/B-163 elliptic curves.

    PubMed

    de la Piedra, Antonio; Braeken, An; Touhafi, Abdellah

    2013-07-29

    Typically, commercial sensor nodes are equipped with MCUsclocked at a low-frequency (i.e., within the 4-12 MHz range). Consequently, executing cryptographic algorithms in those MCUs generally requires a huge amount of time. In this respect, the required energy consumption can be higher than using a separate accelerator based on a Field-programmable Gate Array (FPGA) that is switched on when needed. In this manuscript, we present the design of a cryptographic accelerator suitable for an FPGA-based sensor node and compliant with the IEEE802.15.4 standard. All the embedded resources of the target platform (Xilinx Artix-7) have been maximized in order to provide a cost-effective solution. Moreover, we have added key negotiation capabilities to the IEEE 802.15.4 security suite based on Elliptic Curve Cryptography (ECC). Our results suggest that tailored accelerators based on FPGA can behave better in terms of energy than contemporary software solutions for motes, such as the TinyECC and NanoECC libraries. In this regard, a point multiplication (PM) can be performed between 8.58- and 15.4-times faster, 3.40- to 23.59-times faster (Elliptic Curve Diffie-Hellman, ECDH) and between 5.45- and 34.26-times faster (Elliptic Curve Integrated Encryption Scheme, ECIES). Moreover, the energy consumption was also improved with a factor of 8.96 (PM).

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

    Strait, R.S.; Pearson, P.K.; Sengupta, S.K.

    A password system comprises a set of codewords spaced apart from one another by a Hamming distance (HD) that exceeds twice the variability that can be projected for a series of biometric measurements for a particular individual and that is less than the HD that can be encountered between two individuals. To enroll an individual, a biometric measurement is taken and exclusive-ORed with a random codeword to produce a reference value. To verify the individual later, a biometric measurement is taken and exclusive-ORed with the reference value to reproduce the original random codeword or its approximation. If the reproduced valuemore » is not a codeword, the nearest codeword to it is found, and the bits that were corrected to produce the codeword to it is found, and the bits that were corrected to produce the codeword are also toggled in the biometric measurement taken and the codeword generated during enrollment. The correction scheme can be implemented by any conventional error correction code such as Reed-Muller code R(m,n). In the implementation using a hand geometry device an R(2,5) code has been used in this invention. Such codeword and biometric measurement can then be used to see if the individual is an authorized user. Conventional Diffie-Hellman public key encryption schemes and hashing procedures can then be used to secure the communications lines carrying the biometric information and to secure the database of authorized users.« less

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

    Brickell, E.F.; Davis, J.A.; Simmons, G.J.

    A study of the algorithm and the underlying mathematical concepts of A Polynomial Time Algorithm for Breaking Merkle-Hellman Cryptosystems, by Adi Shamir, is presented. Ways of protecting the Merkle-Hellman knapsack from cryptanalysis are given with derivations. (GHT)

  6. Energy-Efficient Implementation of ECDH Key Exchange for Wireless Sensor Networks

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lederer, Christian; Mader, Roland; Koschuch, Manuel; Großschädl, Johann; Szekely, Alexander; Tillich, Stefan

    Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) are playing a vital role in an ever-growing number of applications ranging from environmental surveillance over medical monitoring to home automation. Since WSNs are often deployed in unattended or even hostile environments, they can be subject to various malicious attacks, including the manipulation and capture of nodes. The establishment of a shared secret key between two or more individual nodes is one of the most important security services needed to guarantee the proper functioning of a sensor network. Despite some recent advances in this field, the efficient implementation of cryptographic key establishment for WSNs remains a challenge due to the resource constraints of small sensor nodes such as the MICAz mote. In this paper we present a lightweight implementation of the elliptic curve Diffie-Hellman (ECDH) key exchange for ZigBee-compliant sensor nodes equipped with an ATmega128 processor running the TinyOS operating system. Our implementation uses a 192-bit prime field specified by the NIST as underlying algebraic structure and requires only 5.20 ·106 clock cycles to compute a scalar multiplication if the base point is fixed and known a priori. A scalar multiplication using a random base point takes about 12.33 ·106 cycles. Our results show that a full ECDH key exchange between two MICAz motes consumes an energy of 57.33 mJ (including radio communication), which is significantly better than most previously reported ECDH implementations on comparable platforms.

  7. Cryptographic framework for document-objects resulting from multiparty collaborative transactions.

    PubMed

    Goh, A

    2000-01-01

    Multiparty transactional frameworks--i.e. Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) or Health Level (HL) 7--often result in composite documents which can be accurately modelled using hyperlinked document-objects. The structural complexity arising from multiauthor involvement and transaction-specific sequencing would be poorly handled by conventional digital signature schemes based on a single evaluation of a one-way hash function and asymmetric cryptography. In this paper we outline the generation of structure-specific authentication hash-trees for the the authentication of transactional document-objects, followed by asymmetric signature generation on the hash-tree value. Server-side multi-client signature verification would probably constitute the single most compute-intensive task, hence the motivation for our usage of the Rabin signature protocol which results in significantly reduced verification workloads compared to the more commonly applied Rivest-Shamir-Adleman (RSA) protocol. Data privacy is handled via symmetric encryption of message traffic using session-specific keys obtained through key-negotiation mechanisms based on discrete-logarithm cryptography. Individual client-to-server channels can be secured using a double key-pair variation of Diffie-Hellman (DH) key negotiation, usage of which also enables bidirectional node authentication. The reciprocal server-to-client multicast channel is secured through Burmester-Desmedt (BD) key-negotiation which enjoys significant advantages over the usual multiparty extensions to the DH protocol. The implementation of hash-tree signatures and bi/multidirectional key negotiation results in a comprehensive cryptographic framework for multiparty document-objects satisfying both authentication and data privacy requirements.

  8. Method and system for normalizing biometric variations to authenticate users from a public database and that ensures individual biometric data privacy

    DOEpatents

    Strait, Robert S.; Pearson, Peter K.; Sengupta, Sailes K.

    2000-01-01

    A password system comprises a set of codewords spaced apart from one another by a Hamming distance (HD) that exceeds twice the variability that can be projected for a series of biometric measurements for a particular individual and that is less than the HD that can be encountered between two individuals. To enroll an individual, a biometric measurement is taken and exclusive-ORed with a random codeword to produce a "reference value." To verify the individual later, a biometric measurement is taken and exclusive-ORed with the reference value to reproduce the original random codeword or its approximation. If the reproduced value is not a codeword, the nearest codeword to it is found, and the bits that were corrected to produce the codeword to it is found, and the bits that were corrected to produce the codeword are also toggled in the biometric measurement taken and the codeword generated during enrollment. The correction scheme can be implemented by any conventional error correction code such as Reed-Muller code R(m,n). In the implementation using a hand geometry device an R(2,5) code has been used in this invention. Such codeword and biometric measurement can then be used to see if the individual is an authorized user. Conventional Diffie-Hellman public key encryption schemes and hashing procedures can then be used to secure the communications lines carrying the biometric information and to secure the database of authorized users.

  9. Laboratory for Computer Science Progress Report 18, July 1980-June 1981,

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1983-04-01

    group in collaboration with Rolf Landauer of IBM Research. Some of the most conspicuous participants: Dyson, Feynman, Wheeler Landauer, Keyes, Bennett...Sheldon A. Data Model Equivalence, December 1978, AD A062-753 TM-119 Shamir, Adi and Richard E. Zippel On the Security of the Merkle -Hellman

  10. 75 FR 28853 - Quarterly Publication of Individuals, Who Have Chosen To Expatriate, as Required by Section 6039G

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-05-24

    .... HECKNER MICHAEL JOHANNES HELLMAN LISA JANE HELLMAN-MERZBACHER JESSICA HENTSCH NIKOLAI HO EUNICE YUK LING... JENNIFER LADANYI HANS GEORG LAMPE ARNO LAUREYNS VEERLE A LEBECH LISA MARGARET LEE YOONBOK STEPHEN LEHMANN... JAMES JOHN MORANT JR PAUL MU DEJUN MULLER SIGRID SIMONS NEDOLUHA DAVID A NEDOLUHA PATRICIA E NEDOLUHA...

  11. Dynamics of neural cryptography

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ruttor, Andreas; Kinzel, Wolfgang; Kanter, Ido

    2007-05-01

    Synchronization of neural networks has been used for public channel protocols in cryptography. In the case of tree parity machines the dynamics of both bidirectional synchronization and unidirectional learning is driven by attractive and repulsive stochastic forces. Thus it can be described well by a random walk model for the overlap between participating neural networks. For that purpose transition probabilities and scaling laws for the step sizes are derived analytically. Both these calculations as well as numerical simulations show that bidirectional interaction leads to full synchronization on average. In contrast, successful learning is only possible by means of fluctuations. Consequently, synchronization is much faster than learning, which is essential for the security of the neural key-exchange protocol. However, this qualitative difference between bidirectional and unidirectional interaction vanishes if tree parity machines with more than three hidden units are used, so that those neural networks are not suitable for neural cryptography. In addition, the effective number of keys which can be generated by the neural key-exchange protocol is calculated using the entropy of the weight distribution. As this quantity increases exponentially with the system size, brute-force attacks on neural cryptography can easily be made unfeasible.

  12. Dynamics of neural cryptography.

    PubMed

    Ruttor, Andreas; Kinzel, Wolfgang; Kanter, Ido

    2007-05-01

    Synchronization of neural networks has been used for public channel protocols in cryptography. In the case of tree parity machines the dynamics of both bidirectional synchronization and unidirectional learning is driven by attractive and repulsive stochastic forces. Thus it can be described well by a random walk model for the overlap between participating neural networks. For that purpose transition probabilities and scaling laws for the step sizes are derived analytically. Both these calculations as well as numerical simulations show that bidirectional interaction leads to full synchronization on average. In contrast, successful learning is only possible by means of fluctuations. Consequently, synchronization is much faster than learning, which is essential for the security of the neural key-exchange protocol. However, this qualitative difference between bidirectional and unidirectional interaction vanishes if tree parity machines with more than three hidden units are used, so that those neural networks are not suitable for neural cryptography. In addition, the effective number of keys which can be generated by the neural key-exchange protocol is calculated using the entropy of the weight distribution. As this quantity increases exponentially with the system size, brute-force attacks on neural cryptography can easily be made unfeasible.

  13. Dynamics of neural cryptography

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

    Ruttor, Andreas; Kinzel, Wolfgang; Kanter, Ido

    2007-05-15

    Synchronization of neural networks has been used for public channel protocols in cryptography. In the case of tree parity machines the dynamics of both bidirectional synchronization and unidirectional learning is driven by attractive and repulsive stochastic forces. Thus it can be described well by a random walk model for the overlap between participating neural networks. For that purpose transition probabilities and scaling laws for the step sizes are derived analytically. Both these calculations as well as numerical simulations show that bidirectional interaction leads to full synchronization on average. In contrast, successful learning is only possible by means of fluctuations. Consequently,more » synchronization is much faster than learning, which is essential for the security of the neural key-exchange protocol. However, this qualitative difference between bidirectional and unidirectional interaction vanishes if tree parity machines with more than three hidden units are used, so that those neural networks are not suitable for neural cryptography. In addition, the effective number of keys which can be generated by the neural key-exchange protocol is calculated using the entropy of the weight distribution. As this quantity increases exponentially with the system size, brute-force attacks on neural cryptography can easily be made unfeasible.« less

  14. Permutation parity machines for neural cryptography.

    PubMed

    Reyes, Oscar Mauricio; Zimmermann, Karl-Heinz

    2010-06-01

    Recently, synchronization was proved for permutation parity machines, multilayer feed-forward neural networks proposed as a binary variant of the tree parity machines. This ability was already used in the case of tree parity machines to introduce a key-exchange protocol. In this paper, a protocol based on permutation parity machines is proposed and its performance against common attacks (simple, geometric, majority and genetic) is studied.

  15. Permutation parity machines for neural cryptography

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

    Reyes, Oscar Mauricio; Escuela de Ingenieria Electrica, Electronica y Telecomunicaciones, Universidad Industrial de Santander, Bucaramanga; Zimmermann, Karl-Heinz

    2010-06-15

    Recently, synchronization was proved for permutation parity machines, multilayer feed-forward neural networks proposed as a binary variant of the tree parity machines. This ability was already used in the case of tree parity machines to introduce a key-exchange protocol. In this paper, a protocol based on permutation parity machines is proposed and its performance against common attacks (simple, geometric, majority and genetic) is studied.

  16. Comparative study of key exchange and authentication methods in application, transport and network level security mechanisms

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Fathirad, Iraj; Devlin, John; Jiang, Frank

    2012-09-01

    The key-exchange and authentication are two crucial elements of any network security mechanism. IPsec, SSL/TLS, PGP and S/MIME are well-known security approaches in providing security service to network, transport and application layers; these protocols use different methods (based on their requirements) to establish keying materials and authenticates key-negotiation and participated parties. This paper studies and compares the authenticated key negotiation methods in mentioned protocols.

  17. Successful attack on permutation-parity-machine-based neural cryptography.

    PubMed

    Seoane, Luís F; Ruttor, Andreas

    2012-02-01

    An algorithm is presented which implements a probabilistic attack on the key-exchange protocol based on permutation parity machines. Instead of imitating the synchronization of the communicating partners, the strategy consists of a Monte Carlo method to sample the space of possible weights during inner rounds and an analytic approach to convey the extracted information from one outer round to the next one. The results show that the protocol under attack fails to synchronize faster than an eavesdropper using this algorithm.

  18. Energies of Screened Coulomb Potentials.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Lai, C. S.

    1979-01-01

    This article shows that, by applying the Hellman-Feynman theorem alone to screened Coulomb potentials, the first four coefficients in the energy series in powers of the perturbation parameter can be obtained from the unperturbed Coulomb system. (Author/HM)

  19. What Is a Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrician?

    MedlinePlus

    ... dyslexia, writing diffi culties, math disorders, and other school-related learning problems Attention and behavioral disorders including attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and associated conditions including oppositional-defiant behavior, conduct ...

  20. Magnetic Field Driven Change of the Density of States of Amorphous Gd_xSi_1-x at the Metal Insulator Transition

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Teizer, W.; Hellman, F.; Dynes, R. C.; Ucsd Physics Department Collaboration

    2000-03-01

    We have determined the density of states of amorphous Gd_xSi_1-x, N(E), through the Metal-Insulator transition by tunneling measurements. Gd_xSi_1-x shows a strong negative magnetoresistance at low temperature [1] and can be driven through the Metal-Insulator transition by applying a magnetic field [2]. In H=0, the conductance dI/dV across a Gd_xSi_1-x/oxide/Pb tunnel junction is dominated by a sharp superconducting Pb gap edge and Pb phonons indicating the presence of single step quantum tunneling. As a small magnetic field (H=1kOe) is applied, effects of the superconductivity of Pb disappear and at low voltages it is reasonable to approximate dI/dV N(E). We find that N(E) increases with magnetic field. On the metallic side of the Metal-Insulator transition, the density of states at zero bias, N(0), approximately scales with the extrapolated T=0 transport conductivity σ_0. A change of N(0) thus causes a change in σ_0. The Metal-Insulator transition occurs when N(0) goes to 0. [1] F. Hellman, M. Q. Tran, A. E. Gebala, E. M. Wilcox and R. C. Dynes. Phys. Rev. Lett. bf77, 4652 (1996). P. Xiong, B. I. Zink, S. I. Applebaum, F. Hellman and R. C. Dynes. Phys. Rev. B bf59, 3929 (1999). [2] W. Teizer, F. Hellman and R. C. Dynes. To be published.

  1. Using Web-Based Tools for Teaching Embryology

    EPA Science Inventory

    Computers, imaging technologies, and the worldwide web have assumed an important role in augmenting traditional learning. Resources to disseminate multimedia information across platforms, and the emergence of communal knowledge environments, facilitate the visualization of diffi...

  2. Studying Intrapersonal Communication through Memoirs and Journals.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Jensen, Marvin D.

    One theoretical approach to self-awareness is the study of introspective writing. Among the characteristics of intrapersonal communication that can be explored through memoirs and journals are selective memory and chronology revision. From the reflections of writers like Lillian Hellman, Dag Hammarskjold, and May Sarton comes confirmation that…

  3. Knowledge base for v-Embryo: Information Infrastructure for in silico modeling

    EPA Science Inventory

    Computers, imaging technologies, and the worldwide web have assumed an important role in augmenting traditional learning. Resources to disseminate multimedia information across platforms, and the emergence of communal knowledge environments, facilitate the visualization of diffi...

  4. Trends in personal income and passenger vehicle miles

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2007-10-01

    While it is diffi cult to predict how individuals will use : increases in their real income in the future, it is clear that : historically some of that increase has been used to acquire : a household vehicle or increase the number of household : vehi...

  5. Automatic Differentiation in Quantum Chemistry with Applications to Fully Variational Hartree-Fock.

    PubMed

    Tamayo-Mendoza, Teresa; Kreisbeck, Christoph; Lindh, Roland; Aspuru-Guzik, Alán

    2018-05-23

    Automatic differentiation (AD) is a powerful tool that allows calculating derivatives of implemented algorithms with respect to all of their parameters up to machine precision, without the need to explicitly add any additional functions. Thus, AD has great potential in quantum chemistry, where gradients are omnipresent but also difficult to obtain, and researchers typically spend a considerable amount of time finding suitable analytical forms when implementing derivatives. Here, we demonstrate that AD can be used to compute gradients with respect to any parameter throughout a complete quantum chemistry method. We present DiffiQult , a Hartree-Fock implementation, entirely differentiated with the use of AD tools. DiffiQult is a software package written in plain Python with minimal deviation from standard code which illustrates the capability of AD to save human effort and time in implementations of exact gradients in quantum chemistry. We leverage the obtained gradients to optimize the parameters of one-particle basis sets in the context of the floating Gaussian framework.

  6. Automatic Differentiation in Quantum Chemistry with Applications to Fully Variational Hartree–Fock

    PubMed Central

    2018-01-01

    Automatic differentiation (AD) is a powerful tool that allows calculating derivatives of implemented algorithms with respect to all of their parameters up to machine precision, without the need to explicitly add any additional functions. Thus, AD has great potential in quantum chemistry, where gradients are omnipresent but also difficult to obtain, and researchers typically spend a considerable amount of time finding suitable analytical forms when implementing derivatives. Here, we demonstrate that AD can be used to compute gradients with respect to any parameter throughout a complete quantum chemistry method. We present DiffiQult, a Hartree–Fock implementation, entirely differentiated with the use of AD tools. DiffiQult is a software package written in plain Python with minimal deviation from standard code which illustrates the capability of AD to save human effort and time in implementations of exact gradients in quantum chemistry. We leverage the obtained gradients to optimize the parameters of one-particle basis sets in the context of the floating Gaussian framework.

  7. Fatigue Assessment: Subjective Peer-to-Peer Fatigue Scoring (Reprint)

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2013-10-01

    impor- tant role of fatigue in aviation safety and fl ight perfor- mance, the compelling tasks of predicting dangerous fatigued states and quantifying ... risk and associated per- formance defi cits have been immoderately diffi cult. This is particularly true for an individual functioning within the

  8. A landscape approach for assessing the ecological feasibility of a black bear population recovery

    EPA Science Inventory

    There is great interest in recovering populations of large carnivores in locations where they previously were extirpated or severely reduced in size as a result of human activity. Determining the ecological feasibility (i.e., is adequate habitat available?) of a species is diffi...

  9. Biological rhythms and rotating shift work : some considerations for air traffic controllers and managers.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    1986-01-01

    This report is a general review of some of the current themes and practices regarding rotating shift work; to inform air traffic controllers, technicians, and managers of these issues; and to offer some ideas that may be helpful in dealing with diffi...

  10. Hypersonic Flight Test Windows for Technology Development Testing

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2013-11-01

    used. 2.1 Propulsion and Controls Test Window The technologies dealing with scramjet propulsion (inlets, fuel injection, etc.) and hypersonic ...AFRL-RQ-WP-TM-2013-0260 HYPERSONIC FLIGHT TEST WINDOWS FOR TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT TESTING Barry M. Hellman Vehicle Technology Branch...DATES COVERED (From - To) November 2013 Final 01 November 2013 – 25 November 2013 4. TITLE AND SUBTITLE HYPERSONIC FLIGHT TEST WINDOWS FOR

  11. Algorithms for Lightweight Key Exchange.

    PubMed

    Alvarez, Rafael; Caballero-Gil, Cándido; Santonja, Juan; Zamora, Antonio

    2017-06-27

    Public-key cryptography is too slow for general purpose encryption, with most applications limiting its use as much as possible. Some secure protocols, especially those that enable forward secrecy, make a much heavier use of public-key cryptography, increasing the demand for lightweight cryptosystems that can be implemented in low powered or mobile devices. This performance requirements are even more significant in critical infrastructure and emergency scenarios where peer-to-peer networks are deployed for increased availability and resiliency. We benchmark several public-key key-exchange algorithms, determining those that are better for the requirements of critical infrastructure and emergency applications and propose a security framework based on these algorithms and study its application to decentralized node or sensor networks.

  12. Symmetric Blind Information Reconciliation for Quantum Key Distribution

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

    Kiktenko, Evgeniy O.; Trushechkin, Anton S.; Lim, Charles Ci Wen

    Quantum key distribution (QKD) is a quantum-proof key-exchange scheme which is fast approaching the communication industry. An essential component in QKD is the information reconciliation step, which is used for correcting the quantum-channel noise errors. The recently suggested blind-reconciliation technique, based on low-density parity-check codes, offers remarkable prospectives for efficient information reconciliation without an a priori quantum bit error rate estimation. We suggest an improvement of the blind-information-reconciliation protocol promoting a significant increase in the efficiency of the procedure and reducing its interactivity. Finally, the proposed technique is based on introducing symmetry in operations of parties, and the consideration ofmore » results of unsuccessful belief-propagation decodings.« less

  13. Symmetric Blind Information Reconciliation for Quantum Key Distribution

    DOE PAGES

    Kiktenko, Evgeniy O.; Trushechkin, Anton S.; Lim, Charles Ci Wen; ...

    2017-10-27

    Quantum key distribution (QKD) is a quantum-proof key-exchange scheme which is fast approaching the communication industry. An essential component in QKD is the information reconciliation step, which is used for correcting the quantum-channel noise errors. The recently suggested blind-reconciliation technique, based on low-density parity-check codes, offers remarkable prospectives for efficient information reconciliation without an a priori quantum bit error rate estimation. We suggest an improvement of the blind-information-reconciliation protocol promoting a significant increase in the efficiency of the procedure and reducing its interactivity. Finally, the proposed technique is based on introducing symmetry in operations of parties, and the consideration ofmore » results of unsuccessful belief-propagation decodings.« less

  14. Symmetric Blind Information Reconciliation for Quantum Key Distribution

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kiktenko, E. O.; Trushechkin, A. S.; Lim, C. C. W.; Kurochkin, Y. V.; Fedorov, A. K.

    2017-10-01

    Quantum key distribution (QKD) is a quantum-proof key-exchange scheme which is fast approaching the communication industry. An essential component in QKD is the information reconciliation step, which is used for correcting the quantum-channel noise errors. The recently suggested blind-reconciliation technique, based on low-density parity-check codes, offers remarkable prospectives for efficient information reconciliation without an a priori quantum bit error rate estimation. We suggest an improvement of the blind-information-reconciliation protocol promoting a significant increase in the efficiency of the procedure and reducing its interactivity. The proposed technique is based on introducing symmetry in operations of parties, and the consideration of results of unsuccessful belief-propagation decodings.

  15. Integrated Approach to User Account Management

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Kesselman, Glenn; Smith, William

    2007-01-01

    IT environments consist of both Windows and other platforms. Providing user account management for this model has become increasingly diffi cult. If Microsoft#s Active Directory could be enhanced to extend a W indows identity for authentication services for Unix, Linux, Java and Macintosh systems, then an integrated approach to user account manag ement could be realized.

  16. Dual Nitrate Isotopes in Dry Deposition: Utility for Partitioning Nox Source Contributions to Landscape Nitrogen Deposition

    EPA Science Inventory

    Dry deposition is a major component of total nitrogen deposition and thus an important source of bioavailable nitrogen to ecosystems. However, relative to wet deposition, less is known regarding the sources and spatial variability of dry deposition. This is in part due to diffi...

  17. Variability of furrow infiltration and irrigation performance in a macroporous soil

    USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

    The study of spatial and temporal variations of infiltration in furrows is essential for the design and management of surface irrigation. A key difficulty in quantifying the process is that infiltration is dependent on the depth of flow, which varies along a furrow and with time. An additional diffi...

  18. Shannon Entropy of Ammonia Volatilization from Fertilized Agricultural Soils

    USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

    The economic loss of ammonia (NH3) volatilization from chemical N fertilizers applied to farmlands worldwide is 11.6 billion US dollars per year. The economic impact of negative environmental effects resulted from NH3 volatilization, i.e., formation of potent greenhouse gas (N2O) and PM2.5, is diffi...

  19. Berkeley Lab - Materials Sciences Division

    Science.gov Websites

    Berkeley Lab Berkeley Lab A-Z Index Phone Book Jobs Search DOE Search MSD Go MSD - Materials Investigators Ager, Joel W » Alivisatos, A Paul » Altman, Ehud » Analytis, James » Anderson, Christopher  , Naomi » Gullikson, Eric M » Harris, Stephen J » Hasan, M. Zahid » Hellman, Frances » Helms, Brett A

  20. Improving the Rainbow Attack by Reusing Colours

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ågren, Martin; Johansson, Thomas; Hell, Martin

    Hashing or encrypting a key or a password is a vital part in most network security protocols. The most practical generic attack on such schemes is a time memory trade-off attack. Such an attack inverts any one-way function using a trade-off between memory and execution time. Existing techniques include the Hellman attack and the rainbow attack, where the latter uses different reduction functions ("colours") within a table.

  1. Algorithms for Lightweight Key Exchange †

    PubMed Central

    Santonja, Juan; Zamora, Antonio

    2017-01-01

    Public-key cryptography is too slow for general purpose encryption, with most applications limiting its use as much as possible. Some secure protocols, especially those that enable forward secrecy, make a much heavier use of public-key cryptography, increasing the demand for lightweight cryptosystems that can be implemented in low powered or mobile devices. This performance requirements are even more significant in critical infrastructure and emergency scenarios where peer-to-peer networks are deployed for increased availability and resiliency. We benchmark several public-key key-exchange algorithms, determining those that are better for the requirements of critical infrastructure and emergency applications and propose a security framework based on these algorithms and study its application to decentralized node or sensor networks. PMID:28654006

  2. Age Effect on Autonomic Cardiovascular Control in Pilots

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2000-08-01

    Nantcheva**, M. Vukov *** *National Center of Hygiene, Medical Ecology and Nutrition 15 Dimitar Nestorov Blvd. 1431 Sofia, Bulgaria "**Military Medical...values and critique. Inter. Physiol. Behav. Sci. 1997, 3, of health risk compared with referents. 202-219. 14. Fluckiger L., Boivin J ., Quilliot D...during flight. Aviat. Space Chapman and Hall. 1991, 590 pp. Environ Med. 1998,4, 360-367. 4. Berntson G., Cacioppo J ., Quigley K. Autonomic 18. Hellman J

  3. National Strategy for Homeland Security

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2007-10-01

    biometrics, including in passports and visas, has made it increasingly diffi- cult to counterfeit travel docu- ments, and we must encourage those... counterfeiting , altera- tion, and misuse of identifica- tion and travel documents, and to report lost and stolen passports in a timely manner. These efforts...in medicine , agriculture, and industry. We will stringently enforce our export control laws as a means of denying rogue actors – including

  4. Holistic Contract Administration in Army Forces Abroad

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2016-10-01

    Defense (DoD) civil- ian personnel—i.e., 1910 Quality Assurance Specialist, 1102 Contract Specialist, and 1103 Industrial Property Management Specialist... 1103 -series civilian property ad- ministrators throughout ACC, the battalion experienced diffi- culties hiring for these positions during its deployment...tasks. Counting on 1103 support, ACOs received minimal property training prior to deploy- ment. This proved to be a major setback as ACOs struggled

  5. Garment Selection for Cleanrooms and Controlled Environments for Spacecraft

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1991-04-01

    visually undetectable, making it diffi- cult for a worker to select a treated garment. The optimal solution has been to weave a grid of synthetic coated ...make the base fabric static-dis- sipative must be selected carefully. Nylon- coated conductive yarns are readily subject to acid attack, while...Cations (+ ) which must be eliminated from garments include sodium, potassium, lithi- um, aluminum, boron , and arsenic. The standard mtwhod for

  6. JPRS Report, China

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1991-02-14

    payments are due as stipulated in the national debt- for the better in the market slump, and there will still be payment program. The banks are responsible ...pluck up met, as well as the demands on the international market . their courage and confidence in conquering their diffi- The adjustment of the product...ruled that those involved in and which planned prices were primary and market regula- those responsible for adulteration and deception when tion prices

  7. JPRS Report, China.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1989-03-23

    economic reform, the price hikes of some major consumer goods over the past 2 years have reached double digits.) There is another example regarding a...of this staple to eat. For urban residents, rationing now ensures a guar- anteed supply of grain at stable prices , so the greatest impact on...States was bogged down in the quagmire of the Vietnam war, faced both domestic and external diffi- culty, and was forced into strategic withdrawal. Mean

  8. The Budget and Economic Outlook: 2015 to 2025

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2015-01-01

    States. 19. In principle , GDI equals GDP, because each dollar of production yields a dollar of income; in practice, they differ because of diffi...Report Documentation Page Form ApprovedOMB No. 0704-0188 Public reporting burden for the collection of information is estimated to average 1 hour...and reviewing the collection of information. Send comments regarding this burden estimate or any other aspect of this collection of information

  9. A Secure Authenticated Key Exchange Protocol for Credential Services

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Shin, Seonghan; Kobara, Kazukuni; Imai, Hideki

    In this paper, we propose a leakage-resilient and proactive authenticated key exchange (called LRP-AKE) protocol for credential services which provides not only a higher level of security against leakage of stored secrets but also secrecy of private key with respect to the involving server. And we show that the LRP-AKE protocol is provably secure in the random oracle model with the reduction to the computational Difie-Hellman problem. In addition, we discuss about some possible applications of the LRP-AKE protocol.

  10. Secure password-based authenticated key exchange for web services

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

    Liang, Fang; Meder, Samuel; Chevassut, Olivier

    This paper discusses an implementation of an authenticated key-exchange method rendered on message primitives defined in the WS-Trust and WS-SecureConversation specifications. This IEEE-specified cryptographic method (AuthA) is proven-secure for password-based authentication and key exchange, while the WS-Trust and WS-Secure Conversation are emerging Web Services Security specifications that extend the WS-Security specification. A prototype of the presented protocol is integrated in the WSRF-compliant Globus Toolkit V4. Further hardening of the implementation is expected to result in a version that will be shipped with future Globus Toolkit releases. This could help to address the current unavailability of decent shared-secret-based authentication options inmore » the Web Services and Grid world. Future work will be to integrate One-Time-Password (OTP) features in the authentication protocol.« less

  11. Microbiological Evaluation of Containment Isolators for the Care of Patients with Exotic Diseases.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1980-02-01

    The microbiological integrity of containment isolators obtained from Vickers Limited Medical Engineering was evaluated using aerosols of Tl coliphage ...diluted in sterile distilled water (SDW). Aliquots for plate counts were mixed with log phase host cells and the mixture spread evenly on pre-dried...of water was diffi- cult to maintain and measure accurately even with sensitive meters, and finally visual observation of the curvature of the side

  12. AGARD Flight Test Instrumentation Series. Volume 8. Linear and Angular Position Measurement of Aircraft Components

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1977-01-01

    art=m The Netherlands 1.0 ] I This volwme concentrates on flight teat instrumentation for determining the position of movable air - craft components...form an integral part of a transducer. The discussion in this volume has been limited to measurements of the relative positions of two air - crft...often cause diffi ties. Special types, for instance, the brushless types, can be used at higher temperatures up to about 3000 C. Chaning the

  13. Worldwide Report, Epidemiology, No. 327.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1983-08-10

    20 Briefs Dengue Fever in Michoacan 21 Tuberculosis in Chiapas 21 PAKISTAN 20-Year Program To Eradicate Tuberculosis (DAWN, 6 Jul 83) 22...EXCELSIOR in Spanish 23 Jun 83 p 6] 8255 TUBERCULOSIS IN CHIAPAS —Tuxtla Gutierrez, Chis., June 18—It is very diffi- cult to confirm that 40 per cent of...actual tuberculosis figure for the Chiapas area fluctuates between 15 and 20 per cent of the population, but that the utmost has been done to

  14. Characterization of the Pathological and Biochemical Markers that Correlate to the Clinical Features of Autism: The Neuropathological Markers of Abnormal Brain Development and Aging in Autism

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2010-10-21

    generalization of previously acquired skills, (f) rigidity and resistance to change, (g) social and communication defi cits, and (h) diffi culty in...defects and three diagnostic domains of autism (social and communication deficits, and ritualistic behaviors) and intellectual deficits. This process is...including: (a) qualitative impairments in reciprocal social interactions, (b) qualitative impairments in verbal and nonverbal communication , (c

  15. Individual Differences in Dual Task Performance.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1981-06-10

    SJCURITY CLASSIFICATION OF THIS PAGE("en Data Entered) second experimental series, we compared ability to detect visual and audi- tory targets in single...used performance on a simple secondary task executed during an easy primary task to predict performance on a more diffi- cult’version of the same...process concepts developed b’j cognitive ps:choloqists°’ In this laborators, we adapted a number of experimental tasks to 4ield individual measures of the

  16. An Approach to the Comparative Analysis of the US and Soviet Economies.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1980-09-01

    compare aithority exer:isud in different forms is hasic. Designing such a i,,easuring system necessitates development of a weighting system to measure the...Proper flie maintenance is diffi,.lt 34 a because of poor file organization, inade;tiately designed inflow of updating information, and manual methods...asiSsnet 5.1 Issues Areas for Comparative Analysis Comparativ ,. issioes relatc to i, soc-cicty’s mobjilization of resources and use of institution’, Lo a

  17. X-Ray System, Lightweight Medical (XRSLM)

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1992-08-10

    AD-25805 DTIC ELECTE DEC 3 1992 C~ontract No. DAMD 17-88(1-8058 X-Ray System , Lightweight Medical kXRSLM) M el in P .Siedba nl Frank C. G-reuzow’)N...Craig A. Hellman Robert C. Bruce rl 4 1W ý~( rf A&*- ~ko~.$~._ LO Contract No. DAMD17-88C-8058 X-Ray System , Lightweight Medical (XRSLM) Melvin P... System , Lightweight Medical (XRSLM) Contract No. DAMD17-88-C-805 8 6. AUTHOR(S)Melvin P. Siedband 63807A Frank C. Grenzow 3M463807L2336 HE 041 Craig A

  18. Synchronization of random bit generators based on coupled chaotic lasers and application to cryptography.

    PubMed

    Kanter, Ido; Butkovski, Maria; Peleg, Yitzhak; Zigzag, Meital; Aviad, Yaara; Reidler, Igor; Rosenbluh, Michael; Kinzel, Wolfgang

    2010-08-16

    Random bit generators (RBGs) constitute an important tool in cryptography, stochastic simulations and secure communications. The later in particular has some difficult requirements: high generation rate of unpredictable bit strings and secure key-exchange protocols over public channels. Deterministic algorithms generate pseudo-random number sequences at high rates, however, their unpredictability is limited by the very nature of their deterministic origin. Recently, physical RBGs based on chaotic semiconductor lasers were shown to exceed Gbit/s rates. Whether secure synchronization of two high rate physical RBGs is possible remains an open question. Here we propose a method, whereby two fast RBGs based on mutually coupled chaotic lasers, are synchronized. Using information theoretic analysis we demonstrate security against a powerful computational eavesdropper, capable of noiseless amplification, where all parameters are publicly known. The method is also extended to secure synchronization of a small network of three RBGs.

  19. Medical Effects and Dosimetric Data from Nuclear Tests at the Semipalatinsk Test Site

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2006-06-01

    fi bromyoma 8 10 4 Posthysterectomy changes (radical hys- terectomy for cancer) 5 7 2 Displaced sex organs 3 11 7 Uterine prolapse and varicose...dust, of diffi culty in breathing, and eye irritation. The skies were overcast and dusk fell; the cattle were restless, and howling dogs , their...11 Chronic adnexitis 32 54 42 Cervicitis 19 32 17 Endocervicitis 6 16 6 Fibrocystic changes of the ovary 4 5 -- Cervical canal polyps 2 2 6 Uterine

  20. Deaths by Suicide While on Active Duty, Active and Reserve Components, U.S. Armed Forces, 1998-2011

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2012-06-01

    June 2012 Vol. 19 No. 6 M S M R Page 7 have suggested that deployment to these confl icts increases a soldier’s risk of suicide and have...estimated a proportion of suicides that may be related to deployment.6,10 Such relationships are plausible but diffi cult to characterize precisely...because many cor- relates of risk for suicide are closely associ- ated with wartime deployments (e.g., access to weapons, high operational tempos

  1. Human Factors Affecting Pilot Performance in Vertical and Translational Instrument Flight

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1986-01-01

    purpose of a mission lie all the areas of information which together result in the accomplished flight. Since the only courve of’ action open to a pilot...any of these cases there is a diffi’cult t radeoff between the desire to present the largest possible outside angular representation ( field of view...is an urgent program to implement the cockpit display of traffic information (CDTL). Practical limitations on the fields of view of vertical situation

  2. Conservative Management of Uncomplicated Mechanical Neck Pain in a Military Aviator

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2010-01-01

    head to the right. The neck pain became more bothersome during and after ACM. Typically the pain was described as being dull and aching in...outcome of exposure to high gravi- tational (G) forces.2 The weight of the helmet and oxygen mask and the various non-neutral head postures assumed when...character; however it could become sharp with rapid right rotation of the neck or under high G situations. He experienced diffi culty turning his head to

  3. The surface of Mars: An unusual laboratory that preserves a record of catastrophic and unusual events

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Chapman, M.G.

    2009-01-01

    Catastrophic and unusual events on Earth such as bolide impacts, megafloods, supereruptions, flood volcanism, and subice volcanism may have devastating effects when they occur. Although these processes have unique characteristics and form distinctive features and deposits, we have diffi culties identifying them and measuring the magnitude of their effects. Our diffi culties with interpreting these processes and identifying their consequences are understandable considering their infrequency on Earth, combined with the low preservation potential of their deposits in the terrestrial rock record. Although we know these events do happen, they are infrequent enough that the deposits are poorly preserved on the geologically active face of the Earth, where erosion, volcanism, and tectonism constantly change the surface. Unlike the Earth, on Mars catastrophic and unusual features are well preserved because of the slow modifi cation of the surface. Signifi cant precipitation has not occurred on Mars for billions of years and there appears to be no discrete crustal plates to have undergone subduction and destruction. Therefore the ancient surface of Mars preserves geologic features and deposits that result from these extraordinary events. Also, unlike the other planets, Mars is the most similar to our own, having an atmosphere, surface ice, volcanism, and evidence of onceflowing water. So although our understanding of precursors, processes, and possible biological effects of catastrophic and unusual processes is limited on Earth, some of these mysteries may be better understood through investigating the surface of Mars. ?? 2009 The Geological Society of America.

  4. Effects of Atmospheric Water Vapor and Clouds on NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) AVHRR (Advanced Very High Resolution Radiometer) Satellite Data.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1984-07-01

    aerosols and sub pixel-sized clouds all tend to increase Channel 1 with respect to Channel 2 and reduce the computed VIN. Further, the Guide states that... computation of the VIN. Large scale cloud contamination of pixels, while diffi- cult to correct for, can at least be monitored and affected pixels...techniques have been developed for computer cloud screening. See, for example, Horvath et al. (1982), Gray and McCrary (1981a) and Nixon et al. (1983

  5. A Round-Efficient Authenticated Key Agreement Scheme Based on Extended Chaotic Maps for Group Cloud Meeting

    PubMed Central

    Lee, Tian-Fu; Wang, Zeng-Bo

    2017-01-01

    The security is a critical issue for business purposes. For example, the cloud meeting must consider strong security to maintain the communication privacy. Considering the scenario with cloud meeting, we apply extended chaotic map to present passwordless group authentication key agreement, termed as Passwordless Group Authentication Key Agreement (PL-GAKA). PL-GAKA improves the computation efficiency for the simple group password-based authenticated key agreement (SGPAKE) proposed by Lee et al. in terms of computing the session key. Since the extended chaotic map has equivalent security level to the Diffie–Hellman key exchange scheme applied by SGPAKE, the security of PL-GAKA is not sacrificed when improving the computation efficiency. Moreover, PL-GAKA is a passwordless scheme, so the password maintenance is not necessary. Short-term authentication is considered, hence the communication security is stronger than other protocols by dynamically generating session key in each cloud meeting. In our analysis, we first prove that each meeting member can get the correct information during the meeting. We analyze common security issues for the proposed PL-GAKA in terms of session key security, mutual authentication, perfect forward security, and data integrity. Moreover, we also demonstrate that communicating in PL-GAKA is secure when suffering replay attacks, impersonation attacks, privileged insider attacks, and stolen-verifier attacks. Eventually, an overall comparison is given to show the performance between PL-GAKA, SGPAKE and related solutions. PMID:29207509

  6. Partial Reform Equilibrium in Russia: A Case Study of the Political Interests of and in the Russian Gas and Oil Industry

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Everett, Rabekah

    While several theories abound that attempt to explain the obstacles to democracy in Russia, Joel Hellman's partial reform equilibrium model is an institutional theory that illustrates how weak institutions, combined with an instrumentalist cultural approach to the law and authoritarian-minded leadership, allowed the struggle over interests to craft and determine the nature of Russia's political structure. This thesis builds on the work of Hellman by using the partial reform theory to understand the evolution of interest infiltration and their impact on the formation of policies and institutions in favour of the elites or winners from 2004 to the present time period that allow them to wield law as a political weapon. The hypothesis posits that through their vested interests in state politics, the political and economic elites of the oil and gas industry have successfully stalled reform in Russia resulting in partial reform equilibrium. This is illustrated in a case study that was designed to collect the names, backgrounds, and social networks of gas and oil executives in order to determine how many of them have a history of, or are currently working as, ministers in the government or representatives in the Federation Council. The objective being to measure the degree to which gas and oil interests are present in government decision-making and conversely, the degree to which the government is present in the gas and oil industry. The thesis stresses the importance of institutional structure in determining Russia's political evolution, and uses vested interests as a primary source of structural institutional change, while also stressing on the social and international implications of this evolution.

  7. Quantum cryptography: a view from classical cryptography

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Buchmann, Johannes; Braun, Johannes; Demirel, Denise; Geihs, Matthias

    2017-06-01

    Much of digital data requires long-term protection of confidentiality, for example, medical health records. Cryptography provides such protection. However, currently used cryptographic techniques such as Diffe-Hellman key exchange may not provide long-term security. Such techniques rely on certain computational assumptions, such as the hardness of the discrete logarithm problem that may turn out to be incorrect. On the other hand, quantum cryptography---in particular quantum random number generation and quantum key distribution---offers information theoretic protection. In this paper, we explore the challenge of providing long-term confidentiality and we argue that a combination of quantum cryptography and classical cryptography can provide such protection.

  8. An update on the BQCD Hybrid Monte Carlo program

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Haar, Taylor Ryan; Nakamura, Yoshifumi; Stüben, Hinnerk

    2018-03-01

    We present an update of BQCD, our Hybrid Monte Carlo program for simulating lattice QCD. BQCD is one of the main production codes of the QCDSF collaboration and is used by CSSM and in some Japanese finite temperature and finite density projects. Since the first publication of the code at Lattice 2010 the program has been extended in various ways. New features of the code include: dynamical QED, action modification in order to compute matrix elements by using Feynman-Hellman theory, more trace measurements (like Tr(D-n) for K, cSW and chemical potential reweighting), a more flexible integration scheme, polynomial filtering, term-splitting for RHMC, and a portable implementation of performance critical parts employing SIMD.

  9. Conceptual DFT analysis of the fragility spectra of atoms along the minimum energy reaction coordinate.

    PubMed

    Ordon, Piotr; Komorowski, Ludwik; Jedrzejewski, Mateusz

    2017-10-07

    Theoretical justification has been provided to the method for monitoring the sequence of chemical bonds' rearrangement along a reaction path, by tracing the evolution of the diagonal elements of the Hessian matrix. Relations between the divergences of Hellman-Feynman forces and the energy and electron density derivatives have been demonstrated. By the proof presented on the grounds of the conceptual density functional theory formalism, the spectral amplitude observed on the atomic fragility spectra [L. Komorowski et al., Phys. Chem. Chem. Phys. 18, 32658 (2016)] reflects selectively the electron density modifications in bonds of an atom. In fact the spectral peaks for an atom reveal changes of the electron density occurring with bonds creation, breaking, or varying with the reaction progress.

  10. Conceptual DFT analysis of the fragility spectra of atoms along the minimum energy reaction coordinate

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ordon, Piotr; Komorowski, Ludwik; Jedrzejewski, Mateusz

    2017-10-01

    Theoretical justification has been provided to the method for monitoring the sequence of chemical bonds' rearrangement along a reaction path, by tracing the evolution of the diagonal elements of the Hessian matrix. Relations between the divergences of Hellman-Feynman forces and the energy and electron density derivatives have been demonstrated. By the proof presented on the grounds of the conceptual density functional theory formalism, the spectral amplitude observed on the atomic fragility spectra [L. Komorowski et al., Phys. Chem. Chem. Phys. 18, 32658 (2016)] reflects selectively the electron density modifications in bonds of an atom. In fact the spectral peaks for an atom reveal changes of the electron density occurring with bonds creation, breaking, or varying with the reaction progress.

  11. Comparison of masticatory performance and tongue pressure between children and young adults.

    PubMed

    Fujita, Yuko; Ichikawa, Maika; Hamaguchi, Ayako; Maki, Kenshi

    2018-04-01

    The aims of the present study were to evaluate whether there are significant differences in masticatory performance by gender and dental stage. We also determined the factors directly associated with the masticatory performance in children, and those directly associated with masticatory performance in young adults. The study included 180 subjects, ranging in age from 6 to 12 years or 20 to 33 years. The subjects were divided into three groups according to the Hellman developmental stage (III A, III B, or VA); the groups were the subdivided according to gender. The body mass index (BMI), maximum tongue pressure, and sum of decayed, missing, and filled teeth (DMFT) were determined in all subjects. To investigate masticatory performance, the total number and maximum projected area of chewed particles of the jelly materials were measured. Masticatory performance had the highest values at Stage VA in both males and females. Regarding the maximum tongue pressure in females, Stage III B had the highest value of all stages. Multiple regression analysis showed that masticatory performance was associated with DMFT index, maximum tongue pressure, and BMI in children. Among young adults, masticatory performance was associated with DMFT index and maximum tongue pressure. Better masticatory performance is directly associated with better dental status, a higher BMI, and tongue pressure in schoolchildren. Additionally, masticatory performance was well-correlated with tongue pressure in young adults, although maximum tongue pressure reached its peak before Stage VA in females. We suggest that females need training with respect to tongue pressure, by the mixed dentition stage.

  12. An Enhanced Privacy-Preserving Authentication Scheme for Vehicle Sensor Networks

    PubMed Central

    Zhou, Yousheng; Zhao, Xiaofeng; Jiang, Yi; Shang, Fengjun; Deng, Shaojiang; Wang, Xiaojun

    2017-01-01

    Vehicle sensor networks (VSNs) are ushering in a promising future by enabling more intelligent transportation systems and providing a more efficient driving experience. However, because of their inherent openness, VSNs are subject to a large number of potential security threats. Although various authentication schemes have been proposed for addressing security problems, they are not suitable for VSN applications because of their high computation and communication costs. Chuang and Lee have developed a trust-extended authentication mechanism (TEAM) for vehicle-to-vehicle communication using a transitive trust relationship, which they claim can resist various attacks. However, it fails to counter internal attacks because of the utilization of a shared secret key. In this paper, to eliminate the vulnerability of TEAM, an enhanced privacy-preserving authentication scheme for VSNs is constructed. The security of our proposed scheme is proven under the random oracle model based on the assumption of the computational Diffie–Hellman problem. PMID:29292792

  13. Authentication Based on Non-Interactive Zero-Knowledge Proofs for the Internet of Things

    PubMed Central

    Martín-Fernández, Francisco; Caballero-Gil, Pino; Caballero-Gil, Cándido

    2016-01-01

    This paper describes the design and analysis of a new scheme for the authenticated exchange of confidential information in insecure environments within the Internet of Things, which allows a receiver of a message to authenticate the sender and compute a secret key shared with it. The proposal is based on the concept of a non-interactive zero-knowledge proof, so that in a single communication, relevant data may be inferred to verify the legitimacy of the sender. Besides, the new scheme uses the idea under the Diffie–Hellman protocol for the establishment of a shared secret key. The proposal has been fully developed for platforms built on the Android Open Source Project, so it can be used in any device or sensor with this operating system. This work provides a performance study of the implementation and a comparison between its promising results and others obtained with similar schemes. PMID:26751454

  14. Cálculo del esfuerzo ideal de metales nobles mediante primeros principios en la dirección <100>

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bautista-Hernández, A.; López-Fuentes, M.; Pacheco-Espejel, V.; Rivas-Silva, J. F.

    2005-04-01

    We present calculations of the ideal strength on the < 100 > direction for noble metals (Cu, Ag and Au), by means of first principles calculations. First, we obtain the structural parameters (cell parameters, bulk modulus) for each studied metal. We deform on the < 100 > direction calculating the total energy and the stress tensor through the Hellman-Feynman theorem, by the relaxation of the unit cell in the perpendicular directions to the deformation one. The calculated cell constants differ 1.3 % from experimental data. The maximum ideal strength are 29.6, 17 and 19 GPa for Cu, Ag and Au respectively. Meanwhile, the calculated elastic modulus are 106 (Cu), 71 (Ag), and 45 GPa (Au) and are in agreement with the experimental values for polycrystalline samples. The values of maximum strength are explained by the optimum volume values due to the atomic radius size for each element.

  15. Ethnicity and skeletal Class III morphology: a pubertal growth analysis using thin-plate spline analysis.

    PubMed

    Alkhamrah, B; Terada, K; Yamaki, M; Ali, I M; Hanada, K

    2001-01-01

    A longitudinal retrospective study using thin-plate spline analysis was used to investigate skeletal Class III etiology in Japanese female adolescents. Headfilms of 40 subjects were chosen from the archives of the Orthodontic department at Niigata University Dental Hospital, and were traced at IIIB and IVA Hellman dental ages. Twenty-eight homologous landmarks, representing hard and soft tissue, were digitized. These were used to reproduce a consensus for the profilogram, craniomaxillary complex, mandible, and soft tissue for each age and skeletal group. Generalized least-square analysis revealed a significant shape difference between age-matched groups (P < .001), except for the craniomaxillary complex at stage IVA. T test for size analysis showed unequivocally increased mandibular size in skeletal Class III, which directly increased the craniofacial size collectively (P < .05). A deviant profilogram showed anisotropy displaying as maxillary deficiency, acute cranial base, and obtuse gonial angle in addition to increased facial height at stage IIIB. Maxillary retrusion decreased while the mandible showed excessive incremental growth and a forward position caused by deficient orthocephalization at stage IVA. Craniomaxillary complex total spline and partial warps (PW)3 and 2 showed a maxillary retrusion at stage IIIB opposite an acute cranial base at stage IVA. Mandibular total spline and PW4, 5 showed changes affecting most landmarks and their spatial interrelationship, especially a stretch along the articulare-pogonion axis. In soft tissue analysis, PW8 showed large and local changes which paralleled the underlying hard tissue components. Allometry of the mandible and anisotropy of the cranial base, the maxilla, and the mandible asserted the complexity of craniofacial growth and the difficulty of predicting its outcome.

  16. Developing the Polynomial Expressions for Fields in the ITER Tokamak

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sharma, Stephen

    2017-10-01

    The two most important problems to be solved in the development of working nuclear fusion power plants are: sustained partial ignition and turbulence. These two phenomena are the subject of research and investigation through the development of analytic functions and computational models. Ansatz development through Gaussian wave-function approximations, dielectric quark models, field solutions using new elliptic functions, and better descriptions of the polynomials of the superconducting current loops are the critical theoretical developments that need to be improved. Euler-Lagrange equations of motion in addition to geodesic formulations generate the particle model which should correspond to the Dirac dispersive scattering coefficient calculations and the fluid plasma model. Feynman-Hellman formalism and Heaviside step functional forms are introduced to the fusion equations to produce simple expressions for the kinetic energy and loop currents. Conclusively, a polynomial description of the current loops, the Biot-Savart field, and the Lagrangian must be uncovered before there can be an adequate computational and iterative model of the thermonuclear plasma.

  17. Expressions for Fields in the ITER Tokamak

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sharma, Stephen

    2017-10-01

    The two most important problems to be solved in the development of working nuclear fusion power plants are: sustained partial ignition and turbulence. These two phenomenon are the subject of research and investigation through the development of analytic functions and computational models. Ansatz development through Gaussian wave-function approximations, dielectric quark models, field solutions using new elliptic functions, and better descriptions of the polynomials of the superconducting current loops are the critical theoretical developments that need to be improved. Euler-Lagrange equations of motion in addition to geodesic formulations generate the particle model which should correspond to the Dirac dispersive scattering coefficient calculations and the fluid plasma model. Feynman-Hellman formalism and Heaviside step functional forms are introduced to the fusion equations to produce simple expressions for the kinetic energy and loop currents. Conclusively, a polynomial description of the current loops, the Biot-Savart field, and the Lagrangian must be uncovered before there can be an adequate computational and iterative model of the thermonuclear plasma.

  18. Observation of maxillary incisive canal using dry skulls between Hellman's dental age IA and IIIC.

    PubMed

    Naitoh, Munetaka; Arikawa, Tomoko; Nishiyama, Wataru; Gotoh, Kenichi; Nawa, Hiroyuki; Fukuta, Osamu; Ariji, Eiichiro

    2015-01-01

    The maxillary incisive canals were observed in childhood from infancy to school-aged children to clarify their development. Cone-beam computed tomography was performed to investigate 44 dry child skulls. Two-dimensional images of various planes in the maxillary incisive canal were reconstructed on a computer using 3-dimensional visualization and measurement software. Then, antero-posterior angulation, and antero-posterior and lateral axes of the maxillary incisive canal were measured at the inferior and middle levels. The mean difference of angulation between the inferior and middle levels was 2.3 degrees in IIC, and 11.1 degrees in IIIC. The mean ratio of the lateral axis to antero-posterior axis at the middle level was 2.54 in IIC, and 1.93 in IIIC. In conclusion, it was antero-posteriorly straight from IA to IIC, and, after IIIA, it curved at the middle level. The cross-sectional shape in IIC was depressed with a larger lateral axis.

  19. [A Study on the Cognitive Learning Effectiveness of Scenario-Based Concept Mapping in a Neurological Nursing Course].

    PubMed

    Pan, Hui-Ching; Hsieh, Suh-Ing; Hsu, Li-Ling

    2015-12-01

    The multiple levels of knowledge related to the neurological system deter many students from pursuing studies on this topic. Thus, in facing complicated and uncertain medical circumstances, nursing students have diffi-culty adjusting and using basic neurological-nursing knowledge and skills. Scenario-based concept-mapping teaching has been shown to promote the integration of complicated data, clarify related concepts, and increase the effectiveness of cognitive learning. To investigate the effect on the neurological-nursing cognition and learning attitude of nursing students of a scenario-based concept-mapping strategy that was integrated into the neurological nursing unit of a medical and surgical nursing course. This quasi-experimental study used experimental and control groups and a pre-test / post-test design. Sopho-more (2nd year) students in a four-year program at a university of science and technology in Taiwan were convenience sampled using cluster randomization that was run under SPSS 17.0. Concept-mapping lessons were used as the intervention for the experimental group. The control group followed traditional lesson plans only. The cognitive learning outcome was measured using the neurological nursing-learning examination. Both concept-mapping and traditional lessons significantly improved post-test neurological nursing learning scores (p < .001), with no significant difference between the two groups (p = .51). The post-test feedback from the control group mentioned that too much content was taught and that difficulties were experienced in understanding mechanisms and in absorbing knowledge. In contrast, the experimental group held a significantly more positive perspective and learning attitude with regard to the teaching material. Furthermore, a significant number in the experimental group expressed the desire to add more lessons on anatomy, physiology, and pathology. These results indicate that this intervention strategy may help change the widespread fear and refusal of nursing students with regard to neurological lessons and may facilitate interest and positively affect learning in this important subject area. Integrating the concept-mapping strategy and traditional clinical-case lessons into neurological nursing lessons holds the potential to increase post-test scores significantly. Concept mapping helped those in the experimental group adopt views and attitudes toward learning the teaching material that were more positive than those held by their control-group peers. In addition, while 59% of the experimental group and 49% of the control group submitted opinions related to learning attitude in the open-ended questions, positive feedback was greater in the experimental group than in the control group.

  20. Neural Synchronization and Cryptography

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ruttor, Andreas

    2007-11-01

    Neural networks can synchronize by learning from each other. In the case of discrete weights full synchronization is achieved in a finite number of steps. Additional networks can be trained by using the inputs and outputs generated during this process as examples. Several learning rules for both tasks are presented and analyzed. In the case of Tree Parity Machines synchronization is much faster than learning. Scaling laws for the number of steps needed for full synchronization and successful learning are derived using analytical models. They indicate that the difference between both processes can be controlled by changing the synaptic depth. In the case of bidirectional interaction the synchronization time increases proportional to the square of this parameter, but it grows exponentially, if information is transmitted in one direction only. Because of this effect neural synchronization can be used to construct a cryptographic key-exchange protocol. Here the partners benefit from mutual interaction, so that a passive attacker is usually unable to learn the generated key in time. The success probabilities of different attack methods are determined by numerical simulations and scaling laws are derived from the data. They show that the partners can reach any desired level of security by just increasing the synaptic depth. Then the complexity of a successful attack grows exponentially, but there is only a polynomial increase of the effort needed to generate a key. Further improvements of security are possible by replacing the random inputs with queries generated by the partners.

  1. MO-D-BRD-01: Memorial to Bengt Bjarngard - Memorial Lecture

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

    Das, I

    We lost a legendary medical physicist, Dr. Bengt Erik Bjarngard, to angiosarcoma an aggressive type of cancer. He devoted his life to providing improved methods of radiation treatment for this devastating disease over the last 36 years. Bengt was born in a rural village of Bjarnum in southern Sweden, located near forest and is known for its furniture making. He migrated to USA at the age of 35 and was recruited by Dr. Samuel Hellman to lead a group of physicists that became the “mecca of medical physics” known as the Joint Center of Radiation Therapy (JCRT) at Harvard Medicalmore » School in Boston. Bengt mentored some of the best physicists in the country, and many of our modern treatments go back to the early days of research at the JCRT. These accomplishments, dating from 1969–1989, include: dose optimization using computer control; soft wedges; stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS); total-body irradiation (TBI); CT-planning; and radiation dosimetry. Bengt worked at Brown University in Rhode Island and at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, where he provided major contributions in radiation dosimetry, specifically with the head scatter model. He advocated superior calculation algorithm through the Helax treatment planning system that was on par from most commercial systems. Bengt served as AAPM president in 1979 and was a recipient of the Coolidge Award in 1998. He had a lifelong love of nature, retiring in 2000 from the University of Pennsylvania to take care of his 200 acres of homestead forest in Maine. His legacy continues through his contributions to radiation dosimetry. This session, on small field dosimetry, is a small tribute to his memory. Further details can be found in his obituary in Med Phy, 41(4), 040801, 2014.« less

  2. Cloudy with a Chance of Pain: Engagement and Subsequent Attrition of Daily Data Entry in a Smartphone Pilot Study Tracking Weather, Disease Severity, and Physical Activity in Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis.

    PubMed

    Reade, Samuel; Spencer, Karen; Sergeant, Jamie C; Sperrin, Matthew; Schultz, David M; Ainsworth, John; Lakshminarayana, Rashmi; Hellman, Bruce; James, Ben; McBeth, John; Sanders, Caroline; Dixon, William G

    2017-03-24

    The increasing ownership of smartphones provides major opportunities for epidemiological research through self-reported and passively collected data. This pilot study aimed to codesign a smartphone app to assess associations between weather and joint pain in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and to study the success of daily self-reported data entry over a 60-day period and the enablers of and barriers to data collection. A patient and public involvement group (n=5) and 2 focus groups of patients with RA (n=9) supported the codesign of the app collecting self-reported symptoms. A separate "capture app" was designed to collect global positioning system (GPS) and continuous raw accelerometer data, with the GPS-linking providing local weather data. A total of 20 patients with RA were then recruited to collect daily data for 60 days, with entry and exit interviews. Of these, 17 were loaned an Android smartphone, whereas 3 used their own Android smartphones. Of the 20 patients, 6 (30%) withdrew from the study: 4 because of technical challenges and 2 for health reasons. The mean completion of daily entries was 68% over 2 months. Patients entered data at least five times per week 65% of the time. Reasons for successful engagement included a simple graphical user interface, automated reminders, visualization of data, and eagerness to contribute to this easily understood research question. The main barrier to continuing engagement was impaired battery life due to the accelerometer data capture app. For some, successful engagement required ongoing support in using the smartphones. This successful pilot study has demonstrated that daily data collection using smartphones for health research is feasible and achievable with high levels of ongoing engagement over 2 months. This result opens important opportunities for large-scale longitudinal epidemiological research. ©Samuel Reade, Karen Spencer, Jamie C Sergeant, Matthew Sperrin, David M Schultz, John Ainsworth, Rashmi Lakshminarayana, Bruce Hellman, Ben James, John McBeth, Caroline Sanders, William G Dixon. Originally published in JMIR Mhealth and Uhealth (http://mhealth.jmir.org), 24.03.2017.

  3. Communication: xDH double hybrid functionals can be qualitatively incorrect for non-equilibrium geometries: Dipole moment inversion and barriers to radical-radical association using XYG3 and XYGJ-OS

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hait, Diptarka; Head-Gordon, Martin

    2018-05-01

    Double hybrid (DH) density functionals are amongst the most accurate density functional approximations developed so far, largely due to the incorporation of correlation effects from unoccupied orbitals via second order perturbation theory (PT2). The xDH family of DH functionals calculate energy directly from orbitals optimized by a lower level approach like B3LYP, without self-consistent optimization. XYG3 and XYGJ-OS are two widely used xDH functionals that are known to be quite accurate at equilibrium geometries. Here, we show that the XYG3 and XYGJ-OS functionals can be ill behaved for stretched bonds well beyond the Coulson-Fischer point, predicting unphysical dipole moments and humps in potential energy curves for some simple systems like the hydrogen fluoride molecule. Numerical experiments and analysis show that these failures are not due to PT2. Instead, a large mismatch at stretched bond-lengths between the reference B3LYP orbitals and the optimized orbitals associated with the non-PT2 part of XYG3 leads to an unphysically large non-Hellman-Feynman contribution to first order properties like forces and electron densities.

  4. Energetics of Nanomaterials

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

    Hellman, Frances

    2004-12-13

    This project, ''Energetics of Nanomaterials'', represents a three-year collaboration among Alexandra Navrotsky (University of California at Davis), Brian Woodfield and Juliana Boerio-Goates (Brigham Young University) and Frances Hellman (University of California at San Diego). Its purpose has been to explore the differences between bulk materials, nanoparticles, and thin films in terms of their thermodynamic properties, with an emphasis on heat capacities and entropies, as well as enthalpies. We used our combined experimental techniques to address the following questions: How does energy and entropy depend on particle size and crystal structure? Do entropic differences have their origins in changes in vibrationalmore » densities of states or configurational (including surface configuration) effects? Do material preparation and sample geometry, i.e., nanoparticles versus thin films, change these quantities? How do the thermodynamics of magnetic and structural transitions change in nanoparticles and thin films? Are different crystal structures stabilized for a given composition at the nanoscale, and are the responsible factors energetic, entropic, or both? How do adsorption energies (for water and other gases) depend on particle size and crystal structure in the nanoregime? What are the energetics of formation and strain energies in artificially layered thin films? Do the differing structures of grain boundaries in films and nanocomposites alter the energetics of nanoscale materials? Of the several directions we first proposed, we initially concentrated on a few systems: TiO(sub 2), CoO, and CoO-MgO. In these systems, we were able to clearly identify particle size-dependent effects on energy and vibrational entropy, and to separate out the effect of particle size and water content on the enthalpy of formation of the various TiO(sub 2) polymorphs. With CoO, we were able to directly compare nanoparticle films and bulk materials; this comparison is important because films can be either 2 dimensional structures, limited by thickness, or can be dominated by nanoparticle granular behavior. These materials represent good model systems which are relevant to technological and geochemical applications as well as to the fundamental underlying science. The collaboration was both congenial and fruitful. We exchanged both samples and scholars among the laboratories. We met several times a year, rotating these meetings among the three institutions. We had frequent conference calls and were in constant email contact. We learned an immense amount from each other because we brought not just different methodologies but different disciplines to the project. In particular, the interplay of physics (Hellman), chemistry (Woodfield, Boerio-Goates, Navrotsky) and geochemistry (Navrotsky) viewpoints has been very enriching. The result has been a number of publications already in print, and several more in preparation, graduate student PhD and MS degrees, and undergraduate research students supported, as well as a well-developed collaboration that will lead to even more fruitful and important science in the coming years.« less

  5. Tree ring imprints of long-term changes in climate in western Himalaya, India.

    PubMed

    Yadav, R R

    2009-11-01

    Tree-ring analyses from semi-arid to arid regions in western Himalaya show immense potential for developing millennia long climate records. Millennium and longer ring-width chronologies of Himalayan pencil juniper (Juniperus polycarpos), Himalayan pencil cedar (Cedrus deodara) and Chilgoza pine (Pinus gerardiana) have been developed from different sites in western Himalaya. Studies conducted so far on various conifer species indicate strong precipitation signatures in ring-width measurement series. The paucity of weather records from stations close to tree-ring sampling sites poses diffi culty in calibrating tree-ring data against climate data especially precipitation for its strong spatial variability in mountain regions. However, for the existence of strong coherence in temperature, even in data from distant stations, more robust temperature reconstructions representing regional and hemispheric signatures have been developed. Tree-ring records from the region indicate multi-century warm and cool anomalies consistent with the Medieval Warm Period and Little Ice Age anomalies. Signifi cant relationships noted between mean premonsoon temperature over the western Himalaya and ENSO features endorse utility of climate records from western Himalayan region in understanding long-term climate variability and attribution of anthropogenic impact.

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

    Deshmukh, Ranjit; Bharvirkar, Ranjit; Gambhir, Ashwin

    Although solar costs are dropping rapidly, solar power is still more expensive than conventional and other renewable energy options. The solar sector still needs continuing government policy support. These policies are driven by objectives that go beyond the goal of achieving grid parity. The need to achieve multiple objectives and ensure sufficient political support for solar power makes it diffi cult for policy makers to design the optimal solar power policy. The dynamic and uncertain nature of the solar industry, combined with the constraints offered by broader economic, political and social conditions further complicates the task of policy making. Thismore » report presents an analysis of solar promotion policies in seven countries - Germany, Spain, the United States, Japan, China, Taiwan, and India - in terms of their outlook, objectives, policy mechanisms and outcomes. The report presents key insights, primarily in qualitative terms, and recommendations for two distinct audiences. The first audience consists of global policy makers who are exploring various mechanisms to increase the penetration of solar power in markets to mitigate climate change. The second audience consists of key Indian policy makers who are developing a long-term implementation plan under the Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission and various state initiatives.« less

  7. Enhancing LoRaWAN Security through a Lightweight and Authenticated Key Management Approach.

    PubMed

    Sanchez-Iborra, Ramon; Sánchez-Gómez, Jesús; Pérez, Salvador; Fernández, Pedro J; Santa, José; Hernández-Ramos, José L; Skarmeta, Antonio F

    2018-06-05

    Luckily, new communication technologies and protocols are nowadays designed considering security issues. A clear example of this can be found in the Internet of Things (IoT) field, a quite recent area where communication technologies such as ZigBee or IPv6 over Low power Wireless Personal Area Networks (6LoWPAN) already include security features to guarantee authentication, confidentiality and integrity. More recent technologies are Low-Power Wide-Area Networks (LP-WAN), which also consider security, but present initial approaches that can be further improved. An example of this can be found in Long Range (LoRa) and its layer-two supporter LoRa Wide Area Network (LoRaWAN), which include a security scheme based on pre-shared cryptographic material lacking flexibility when a key update is necessary. Because of this, in this work, we evaluate the security vulnerabilities of LoRaWAN in the area of key management and propose different alternative schemes. Concretely, the application of an approach based on the recently specified Ephemeral Diffie⁻Hellman Over COSE (EDHOC) is found as a convenient solution, given its flexibility in the update of session keys, its low computational cost and the limited message exchanges needed. A comparative conceptual analysis considering the overhead of different security schemes for LoRaWAN is carried out in order to evaluate their benefits in the challenging area of LP-WAN.

  8. Studies of giant magnetoresistance and interfacial structure in Cu/Co and Co/Re multilayers

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Setty, Arun; Fernando, G.; Cooper, B. R.

    2003-03-01

    A study of giant magnetoresistance (GMR) in the Cu/Co [1]and Co/Re multilayer [2,3] systems is presented. The role of interface structure in such systems is significant, and is being investigated using an ab-initio based approach [4]. The role of intermixing [5], impurities and growth textures have been considered. Structural relaxation is taken into account using Hellman-Feynman and symmetry-based approaches. We find lattice spacings in agreement with experiment, energetically establish the favored growth textures and find results motivating the existence of the observed wavy interface in the Cu/Co system [6]. The transport properties of these multilayer systems will be studied using a theoretical model [7] incorporating material parameters obtained from the multiscale modeling approach we envisage. [1] S.S.P. Parkin, Z.G. Li, and D. J. Smith, Appl. Phys. Lett., 58, 2710-2712 (1991). [2] T. Charlton et al, Phys. Rev. B 63, 094404 (2001) [3] T. Charlton et al, Phys. Rev. B 59, 11897-11908 (1999) [4] C. Villagonzalo, A.K. Setty and B.R. Cooper, submitted to Phys. Rev. [5] J. Fassbender, R. Allenspach, and U. Durig. Surf. Sci., 383, L742-L748, (1997). [6] D.J. Larson et al, Appl. Phys. Lett., 73:1125-1127, (1998). [7] J. C. Slonczewski, Phys. Rev. B 39, 6995 (1989).

  9. The role of hypogonadism in Klinefelter syndrome.

    PubMed

    Høst, Christian; Skakkebæk, Anne; Groth, Kristian A; Bojesen, Anders

    2014-01-01

    Klinefelter syndrome (KS) (47, XXY) is the most abundant sex-chromosome disorder, and is a common cause of infertility and hypogonadism in men. Most men with KS go through life without knowing the diagnosis, as only 25% are diagnosed and only a few of these before puberty. Apart from hypogonadism and azoospermia, most men with KS suffer from some degree of learning disability and may have various kinds of psychiatric problems. The effects of long-term hypogonadism may be diffi cult to discern from the gene dose effect of the extra X-chromosome. Whatever the cause, alterations in body composition, with more fat and less muscle mass and diminished bone mineral mass, as well as increased risk of metabolic consequences, such as type 2 diabetes and the metabolic syndrome are all common in KS. These findings should be a concern as they are not simply laboratory findings; epidemiological studies in KS populations show an increased risk of both hospitalization and death from various diseases. Testosterone treatment should be offered to KS patients from early puberty, to secure a proper masculine development, nonetheless the evidence is weak or nonexisting, since no randomized controlled trials have ever been published. Here, we will review the current knowledge of hypogonadism in KS and the rationale for testosterone treatment and try to give our best recommendations for surveillance of this rather common, but often ignored, syndrome.

  10. Cyberaddictions: toward a psychosocial perspective.

    PubMed

    Suissa, Amnon Jacob

    2014-12-01

    The concept of cyberaddiction is far from being unanimously accepted by scientists (Ko, Yen, Yen, Chen, & Chen, 2012; Pezoa-Jares, Espinoza-Luna & Vasquez-Medina, 2012; Nadeau & et al. 2011; Perraton, Fusaro & Bonenfant, 2011. The same is true of addiction to videogames (Hellman, Schoenmakers, Nordstrom, & Van Holst 2013); Coulombe (2010); or to Facebook (Andreassen et al. 2012; Levard & Soulas, 2010). While certain researchers wished to see this condition included in the DSM-5, others question the operational and practical basis for the diagnostic criteria (Block, 2008). Through a review of litterature and results from research findings; the aim of this article is to propose a psychosocial perspective for the cyberaddiction phenomenon. By a psychosocial perspective, we mean the inclusion of social determinants (weak social ties, social exclusion, hyper individualism, poverty, unemployment, etc) and not only the individual characteristics associated with the disease model in the addiction field. To what extent social conditions and cyberaddiction behaviors constitute a potential pathology ? Can we include a psychosocial approach to gain a more general picture of this contemporary issue? In response to these questions, a contextualization and an attempt to define cyberaddiction will be followed by an analysis of some major issues in the development of this type of addiction. As a conclusion, a demonstration of the cycle of addiction on how people develop addictions, including cyberaddictions, will be done within a psychosocial perspective in order to seize the multifactorial aspects of this addiction. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  11. Averaged 30 year climate change projections mask opportunities for species establishment

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Serra-Diaz, Josep M.; Franklin, Janet; Sweet, Lynn C.; McCullough, Ian M.; Syphard, Alexandra D.; Regan, Helen M.; Flint, Lorraine E.; Flint, Alan L.; Dingman, John; Moritz, Max A.; Redmond, Kelly T.; Hannah, Lee; Davis, Frank W.

    2016-01-01

    Survival of early life stages is key for population expansion into new locations and for persistence of current populations (Grubb 1977, Harper 1977). Relative to adults, these early life stages are very sensitive to climate fl uctuations (Ropert-Coudert et al. 2015), which often drive episodic or ‘event-limited’ regeneration (e.g. pulses) in long-lived plant species (Jackson et al. 2009). Th us, it is diffi cult to mechanistically associate 30-yr climate norms to dynamic processes involved in species range shifts (e.g. seedling survival). What are the consequences of temporal aggregation for estimating areas of potential establishment? We modeled seedling survival for three widespread tree species in California, USA ( Quercus douglasii, Q. kelloggii , Pinus sabiniana ) by coupling a large-scale, multi-year common garden experiment to high-resolution downscaled grids of climatic water defi cit and air temperature (Flint and Flint 2012, Supplementary material Appendix 1). We projected seedling survival for nine climate change projections in two mountain landscapes spanning wide elevation and moisture gradients. We compared areas with windows of opportunity for seedling survival – defi ned as three consecutive years of seedling survival in our species, a period selected based on studies of tree niche ontogeny (Supplementary material Appendix 1) – to areas of 30-yr averaged estimates of seedling survival. We found that temporal aggregation greatly underestimated the potential for species establishment (e.g. seedling survival) under climate change scenarios.

  12. Cyber addictions: toward a psychosocial perspective.

    PubMed

    Suissa, Amnon Jacob

    2015-04-01

    The concept of cyberaddiction is far from being unanimously accepted by scientists (Ko, Yen, Yen, Chen, & Chen 2012; Pezoa-Jares, Espinoza-Luna & Vasquez-Medina 2012; Nadeau et al., 2011; Perraton, Fusaro & Bonenfant 2011). The same is true of addiction to videogames (Hellman, Schoenmakers, Nordstrom, & Van Holst 2013; Coulombe 2010); or to Facebook (Andreassen et al., 2012; Levard & Soulas, 2010). While certain researchers wished to see this condition included in the DSM-5 (Block, 2008), others question the operational and practical bases for the diagnostic criteria. Some see cyberaddiction as a problem linked more to time management, to brain deficits, to an impulse-control disorder or to psychosocial conditions while others consider it to be a pre-existing comorbidity. Considering that most addiction problems are generally understood more as individual and pathological problems rather than the result of psychosocial conditions (poverty, unemployment, weak social ties, social exclusion, hyper individualism, etc), the aim of this article is to propose a psychosocial perspective for this emerging trend in cyberaddictions. To what extent social conditions and cyberaddiction behaviors constitute a potential pathology? Can we include a psychosocial approach to gain a more general picture of this contemporary issue? In response to these questions, a contextualization and an attempt to define cyberaddiction will be followed by an analysis of some major issues in the development of this type of addiction. A demonstration of the cycle of addiction on how people develop addictions, including cyberaddictions, will be done within a psychosocial perspective in order to seize the multifactorial aspects of this addiction. Crown Copyright © 2014. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  13. A Physicist as President of the University

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Dynes, Robert

    2005-03-01

    My wife, physicist Frances Hellman, is fond of referring to me as a ``restless soul,'' and I do not dispute her. In the 40 years since graduating from the University of Western Ontario with a bachelor's degree in mathematics and physics, I went on to earn master's and doctorate degrees in physics and an honorary doctor of science degree from McMaster University. In 22 years working at AT&T Bell Laboratories, I held five positions, was department head in two departments, and director of one laboratory. At the University of California, San Diego, I was a Professor of Physics, chair of the Department of Physics, senior vice chancellor and then chancellor. Currently, in addition to being a professor of Physics, I am president of the University of California. The ``restless'' trajectory of my career from physics undergraduate to university president follows the nature of physics itself. In physics, you are constantly seeking challenges, experimenting, creating hypotheses, looking for and finding solutions. I recall having a structured view of the world as a boy, a sense that there was a guiding ``master plan'' to most things and that wise, educated, benevolent people were there to implement the plan. ``They'' would do the right thing. Along the way, I realized, ``there is no `they' there; there is only us.'' Acknowledging the laws of thermodynamics-- ``you can't win, you can't break even, and you can't get out of the game'' --I nonetheless believe that if you have a restless mind, an open heart, and intellectual honesty without giving into wishful thinking, physicists can do anything. .

  14. Hendra virus fusion protein transmembrane domain contributes to pre-fusion protein stability

    PubMed Central

    Webb, Stacy; Nagy, Tamas; Moseley, Hunter; Fried, Michael; Dutch, Rebecca

    2017-01-01

    Enveloped viruses utilize fusion (F) proteins studding the surface of the virus to facilitate membrane fusion with a target cell membrane. Fusion of the viral envelope with a cellular membrane is required for release of viral genomic material, so the virus can ultimately reproduce and spread. To drive fusion, the F protein undergoes an irreversible conformational change, transitioning from a metastable pre-fusion conformation to a more thermodynamically stable post-fusion structure. Understanding the elements that control stability of the pre-fusion state and triggering to the post-fusion conformation is important for understanding F protein function. Mutations in F protein transmembrane (TM) domains implicated the TM domain in the fusion process, but the structural and molecular details in fusion remain unclear. Previously, analytical ultracentrifugation was utilized to demonstrate that isolated TM domains of Hendra virus F protein associate in a monomer-trimer equilibrium (Smith, E. C., Smith, S. E., Carter, J. R., Webb, S. R., Gibson, K. M., Hellman, L. M., Fried, M. G., and Dutch, R. E. (2013) J. Biol. Chem. 288, 35726–35735). To determine factors driving this association, 140 paramyxovirus F protein TM domain sequences were analyzed. A heptad repeat of β-branched residues was found, and analysis of the Hendra virus F TM domain revealed a heptad repeat leucine-isoleucine zipper motif (LIZ). Replacement of the LIZ with alanine resulted in dramatically reduced TM-TM association. Mutation of the LIZ in the whole protein resulted in decreased protein stability, including pre-fusion conformation stability. Together, our data suggest that the heptad repeat LIZ contributed to TM-TM association and is important for F protein function and pre-fusion stability. PMID:28213515

  15. Hendra virus fusion protein transmembrane domain contributes to pre-fusion protein stability.

    PubMed

    Webb, Stacy; Nagy, Tamas; Moseley, Hunter; Fried, Michael; Dutch, Rebecca

    2017-04-07

    Enveloped viruses utilize fusion (F) proteins studding the surface of the virus to facilitate membrane fusion with a target cell membrane. Fusion of the viral envelope with a cellular membrane is required for release of viral genomic material, so the virus can ultimately reproduce and spread. To drive fusion, the F protein undergoes an irreversible conformational change, transitioning from a metastable pre-fusion conformation to a more thermodynamically stable post-fusion structure. Understanding the elements that control stability of the pre-fusion state and triggering to the post-fusion conformation is important for understanding F protein function. Mutations in F protein transmembrane (TM) domains implicated the TM domain in the fusion process, but the structural and molecular details in fusion remain unclear. Previously, analytical ultracentrifugation was utilized to demonstrate that isolated TM domains of Hendra virus F protein associate in a monomer-trimer equilibrium (Smith, E. C., Smith, S. E., Carter, J. R., Webb, S. R., Gibson, K. M., Hellman, L. M., Fried, M. G., and Dutch, R. E. (2013) J. Biol. Chem. 288, 35726-35735). To determine factors driving this association, 140 paramyxovirus F protein TM domain sequences were analyzed. A heptad repeat of β-branched residues was found, and analysis of the Hendra virus F TM domain revealed a heptad repeat leucine-isoleucine zipper motif (LIZ). Replacement of the LIZ with alanine resulted in dramatically reduced TM-TM association. Mutation of the LIZ in the whole protein resulted in decreased protein stability, including pre-fusion conformation stability. Together, our data suggest that the heptad repeat LIZ contributed to TM-TM association and is important for F protein function and pre-fusion stability. © 2017 by The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.

  16. Field camp: Using traditional methods to train the next generation of petroleum geologists

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Puckette, J.O.; Suneson, N.H.

    2009-01-01

    The summer field camp experience provides many students with their best opportunity to learn the scientific process by making observations and collecting, recording, evaluating, and interpreting geologic data. Field school projects enhance student professional development by requiring cooperation and interpersonal interaction, report writing to communicate interpretations, and the development of project management skills to achieve a common goal. The field school setting provides students with the opportunity to observe geologic features and their spatial distribution, size, and shape that will impact the student's future careers as geoscientists. The Les Huston Geology Field Camp (a.k.a. Oklahoma Geology Camp) near Ca??on City, Colorado, focuses on time-tested traditional methods of geological mapping and fieldwork to accomplish these goals. The curriculum consists of an introduction to field techniques (pacing, orienteering, measuring strike and dip, and using a Jacob's staff), sketching outcrops, section measuring (one illustrating facies changes), three mapping exercises (of increasing complexity), and a field geophysics project. Accurate rock and contact descriptions are emphasized, and attitudes and contacts are mapped in the field. Mapping is done on topographic maps at 1:12,000 and 1:6000 scales; air photos are provided. Global positioning system (GPS)-assisted mapping is allowed, but we insist that locations be recorded in the field and confirmed using visual observations. The course includes field trips to the Cripple Creek and Leadville mining districts, Floris-sant/Guffey volcano area, Pikes Peak batholith, and the Denver Basin. Each field trip is designed to emphasize aspects of geology that are not stressed in the field exercises. Students are strongly encouraged to accurately describe geologic features and gather evidence to support their interpretations of the geologic history. Concise reports are a part of each major exercise. Students are grouped into teams to (1) introduce the team concept and develop interpersonal skills that are fundamental components of many professions, (2) ensure safety, and (3) mix students with varying academic backgrounds and physical strengths. This approach has advantages and disadvantages. Students with academic strengths in specific areas assist those with less experience, thereby becoming engaged in the teaching process. However, some students contribute less to fi nal map projects than others, and assigning grades to individual team members can be diffi cult. The greatest challenges we face involve group dynamics and student personalities. We continue to believe that traditional fi eld methods, aided by (but not relying upon) new technologies, are the key to constructing and/or interpreting geologic maps. The requirement that students document fi eld evidence using careful observations teaches skills that will be benefi cial throughout their professional careers. ??2009 The Geological Society of America. All rights reserved.

  17. A Practical Evaluation of a High-Security Energy-Efficient Gateway for IoT Fog Computing Applications

    PubMed Central

    Castedo, Luis

    2017-01-01

    Fog computing extends cloud computing to the edge of a network enabling new Internet of Things (IoT) applications and services, which may involve critical data that require privacy and security. In an IoT fog computing system, three elements can be distinguished: IoT nodes that collect data, the cloud, and interconnected IoT gateways that exchange messages with the IoT nodes and with the cloud. This article focuses on securing IoT gateways, which are assumed to be constrained in terms of computational resources, but that are able to offload some processing from the cloud and to reduce the latency in the responses to the IoT nodes. However, it is usually taken for granted that IoT gateways have direct access to the electrical grid, which is not always the case: in mission-critical applications like natural disaster relief or environmental monitoring, it is common to deploy IoT nodes and gateways in large areas where electricity comes from solar or wind energy that charge the batteries that power every device. In this article, how to secure IoT gateway communications while minimizing power consumption is analyzed. The throughput and power consumption of Rivest–Shamir–Adleman (RSA) and Elliptic Curve Cryptography (ECC) are considered, since they are really popular, but have not been thoroughly analyzed when applied to IoT scenarios. Moreover, the most widespread Transport Layer Security (TLS) cipher suites use RSA as the main public key-exchange algorithm, but the key sizes needed are not practical for most IoT devices and cannot be scaled to high security levels. In contrast, ECC represents a much lighter and scalable alternative. Thus, RSA and ECC are compared for equivalent security levels, and power consumption and data throughput are measured using a testbed of IoT gateways. The measurements obtained indicate that, in the specific fog computing scenario proposed, ECC is clearly a much better alternative than RSA, obtaining energy consumption reductions of up to 50% and a data throughput that doubles RSA in most scenarios. These conclusions are then corroborated by a frame temporal analysis of Ethernet packets. In addition, current data compression algorithms are evaluated, concluding that, when dealing with the small payloads related to IoT applications, they do not pay off in terms of real data throughput and power consumption. PMID:28850104

  18. A Practical Evaluation of a High-Security Energy-Efficient Gateway for IoT Fog Computing Applications.

    PubMed

    Suárez-Albela, Manuel; Fernández-Caramés, Tiago M; Fraga-Lamas, Paula; Castedo, Luis

    2017-08-29

    Fog computing extends cloud computing to the edge of a network enabling new Internet of Things (IoT) applications and services, which may involve critical data that require privacy and security. In an IoT fog computing system, three elements can be distinguished: IoT nodes that collect data, the cloud, and interconnected IoT gateways that exchange messages with the IoT nodes and with the cloud. This article focuses on securing IoT gateways, which are assumed to be constrained in terms of computational resources, but that are able to offload some processing from the cloud and to reduce the latency in the responses to the IoT nodes. However, it is usually taken for granted that IoT gateways have direct access to the electrical grid, which is not always the case: in mission-critical applications like natural disaster relief or environmental monitoring, it is common to deploy IoT nodes and gateways in large areas where electricity comes from solar or wind energy that charge the batteries that power every device. In this article, how to secure IoT gateway communications while minimizing power consumption is analyzed. The throughput and power consumption of Rivest-Shamir-Adleman (RSA) and Elliptic Curve Cryptography (ECC) are considered, since they are really popular, but have not been thoroughly analyzed when applied to IoT scenarios. Moreover, the most widespread Transport Layer Security (TLS) cipher suites use RSA as the main public key-exchange algorithm, but the key sizes needed are not practical for most IoT devices and cannot be scaled to high security levels. In contrast, ECC represents a much lighter and scalable alternative. Thus, RSA and ECC are compared for equivalent security levels, and power consumption and data throughput are measured using a testbed of IoT gateways. The measurements obtained indicate that, in the specific fog computing scenario proposed, ECC is clearly a much better alternative than RSA, obtaining energy consumption reductions of up to 50% and a data throughput that doubles RSA in most scenarios. These conclusions are then corroborated by a frame temporal analysis of Ethernet packets. In addition, current data compression algorithms are evaluated, concluding that, when dealing with the small payloads related to IoT applications, they do not pay off in terms of real data throughput and power consumption.

  19. Sleep behaviour in a sample of preschool children in Singapore.

    PubMed

    Aishworiya, Ramkumar; Chan, Pofun; Kiing, Jennifer; Chong, Shang Chee; Laino, Armi G; Tay, Stacey Kh

    2012-03-01

    Sleep problems are common in all ages, but may be particularly acute in urban Singapore. This study aims to describe the sleep behaviour of, and to identify any sleep problems in, preschool children. This was a cross-sectional questionnaire survey of 372 children attending local childcare centers. The questionnaire was based on the Children's Sleep Habits Questionnaire (CSHQ), a validated parent-report sleep screening questionnaire that contains 54 items identifying sleep behaviours in children. A total of 372 (40.0%) children participated. The mean age was 4.1 (SD 1.3) years (range, 2 to 6 years). Average total sleep duration was 10.8 hours (SD 1.1) with average night-time sleep duration of 8.5 hours (SD 0.6) and average nap duration of 1.6 hours (SD 1.0). Co-sleeping was common; 80.9% of children shared a room with someone else. The most common sleep problems were in the domains of sleep resistance and morning behaviour; namely: requiring company to fall asleep (n = 272, 73.1%), being afraid to sleep alone (n = 228, 61.6%) and diffi culty in waking up (n = 165, 44.4%). Among parents, 84.1 % (n = 313) perceived that their child's sleep duration was adequate. The duration of sleep in the Singaporean preschool population sampled is signifi cantly lower than recommended values and that of previously described Caucasian populations. Parental perception of sleep adequacy deviates from current recommendations. Given the clear relation of sleep duration with cognitive functioning, learning, and physical growth, this sleep deprivation should be addressed with parental education and opportunistic screening of sleep in well-child follow-ups.

  20. Genetic Evidence for a Role for Protein Kinase A in the Maintenance of Sleep and Thalamocortical Oscillations

    PubMed Central

    Hellman, Kevin; Hernandez, Pepe; Park, Alice; Abel, Ted

    2010-01-01

    Study Objectives: Genetic manipulation of cAMP-dependent protein kinase A (PKA) in Drosophila has implicated an important role for PKA in sleep/wake state regulation. Here, we characterize the role of this signaling pathway in the regulation of sleep using electroencephalographic (EEG) and electromyographic (EMG) recordings in R(AB) transgenic mice that express a dominant negative form of the regulatory subunit of PKA in neurons within cortex and hippocampus. Previous studies have revealed that these mutant mice have reduced PKA activity that results in the impairment of hippocampus-dependent long-term memory and long-lasting forms of hippocampal synaptic plasticity. Design: PKA assays, in situ hybridization, immunoblots, and sleep studies were performed in R(AB) transgenic mice and wild-type control mice. Measurements and Results: We have found that R(AB) transgenic mice have reduced PKA activity within cortex and reduced Ser845 phosphorylation of the glutamate receptor subunit GluR1. R(AB) transgenic mice exhibit non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep fragmentation and increased amounts of rapid eye movement (REM) sleep relative to wild-type mice. Further, R(AB) transgenic mice have more delta power but less sigma power during NREM sleep relative to wild-type mice. After sleep deprivation, the amounts of NREM and REM sleep were comparable between wild-type and R(AB) transgenic mice. However, the homeostatic rebound of sigma power in R(AB) transgenic mice was reduced. Conclusions: Alterations in cortical synaptic receptors, impairments in sleep continuity, and alterations in sleep oscillations in R(AB) mice imply that PKA is involved not only in synaptic plasticity and memory storage but also in the regulation of sleep/wake states. Citation: Hellman K; Hernandez P; Park A; Abel T. Genetic evidence for a role for protein kinase a in the maintenance of sleep and thalamocortical oscillations. SLEEP 2010;33(1):19-28. PMID:20120617

  1. Extrinsic and Intrinsic Responses to Environmental Change: Insights from Terrestrial Paleoecological Archives

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Seddon, A. W. R.; Mackay, A. W.

    2015-12-01

    Current understanding of ecological behaviour indicates that systems can experience sudden and abrupt changes in state, driven either by a large external change in environmental conditions (extrinsically forced), or the result of a set local feedbacks and site-specific interactions (intrinsically mediated responses). Responses mediated by intrinsic processes are notoriously diffi- cult to predict, they can occur as slow environmental variables gradually erode the resilience of the system eventually resulting in threshold transitions between alternative stable states. Finding ways to identify, model and predict such complex ecosystem behavior has been identified as a priority research challenge for both ecology and paleoecology. The paleoecological record can play a role in understanding the processes behind abrupt ecological change because it enables the reconstruction of processes occurring over decadal-centennial timescales or longer. Therefore, paleoecological data can be used to identify the existence of ecological thresholds and to investigate the environmental processes that can lead to loss of resilience and abrupt transitions between alternate states. In addition, incidences of abrupt vegetation changes in the past can serve as palaeoecological model systems; analogues of abrupt dynamics which can be used to test theories surrounding ecological responses to climate change. Here, I present examples from a range of terrestrial ecosystems (Holocene environmental changes from a coastal lagoon in the Galapagos Islands; Northern European vegetation changes since the last deglaciation; the North American hemlock decline) demonstrating evidence of abrupt ecosystem change. For each system I present a set of statistical techniques tailored to distin- guish between extrinsic versus intrinsically mediated ecological responses. Examples are provided from both single sites (i.e. landscape scale) and multiple sites (regional-continental scale). These techniques provide a useful way to identify when and where intrinsically mediated responses to environmental change occurs; the next challenge is to understand and quantify the processes that underlie these intrinsic responses.

  2. THE DEVELOPMENT AND THE STRATEGY OF THE OIL AND GAS PIPELINES OF RUSSIA

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Motomura, Masumi

    The Russian oil and gas industry earns more than half of the Russian tax revenue and foreign currency, and has been playing the role of the backbone of the state economy through the eras of the Soviet Union and the Russian Federation. With the elongation of distance to the European market from the oil producing regions, starting from Baku in the era of Imperial Russia to the Second Baku (Volga-Ural) and the third Baku (West Siberia) in turn, the role of the oil pipeline system as the transportation infrastructure became more and more important and the deployment of pipelines has become one of the indispensable pillars of oil strategy. Now, the oil pipeline network is to reach the Pacific Ocean, which will enable Northeast Asia to be added as a destination for Russian oil, with a result of expanding influence for Russia in these regions. On the other hand, gas exports from the Soviet Union to Eastern Europe started in 1967 by constructing a trunk pipeline from Ukraine, which was extended to West Germany in 1973, overcoming the confrontation between the East and the West and becoming a regional stabilizer. The United States considered this pipeline as an energy weapon and criticized this deal by saying that when Soviet gas flows to Western Europe, its political influence must flow like the gas itself. However, the Soviet Union collapsed in 1991, while gas transportation continued without any disruption. This is evidence that the gas pipeline from the Soviet Union was purely for a business purpose and was not politicized. Recently, Russia is aiming to export gas to northeastern Asia, which is expected to be a new stabilizer in this region, although different types of diffi culties (especially about the method of determination of the gas price) still need to be resolved.

  3. Anatomy of the ρ resonance from lattice QCD at the physical point

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sun, Wei; Alexandru, Andrei; Chen, Ying; Draper, Terrence; Liu, Zhaofeng; Yang, Yi-Bo; χQCD Collaboration

    2018-05-01

    We propose a strategy to access the q\\bar{q} component of the ρ resonance in lattice QCD. Through a mixed action formalism (overlap valence on domain wall sea), the energy of the q\\bar{q} component is derived at different valence quark masses, and shows a linear dependence on {m}{{π }}2. The slope is determined to be {c}1=0.505(3) {{{GeV}}}-1, from which the valence {{π }}{{ρ }} sigma term is extracted to be {σ }{{π }{{ρ }}}({val)}=9.82(6) MeV using the Feynman-Hellman theorem. At the physical pion mass, the mass of the q\\bar{q} component is interpolated to be {m}{{ρ }}=775.9+/- 6.0+/- 1.8 {{MeV}}, which is close to the ρ resonance mass. We also obtain the leptonic decay constant of the q\\bar{q} component to be {f}{{{ρ }}-}=208.5+/- 5.5+/- 0.9 {{MeV}}, which can be compared with the experimental value {f}{{ρ }}{{\\exp }}≈ 221 {{MeV}} through the relation {f}{{ρ }}{{\\exp }}=\\sqrt{{Z}{{ρ }}}{f}{{{ρ }}+/- }, with {Z}{{ρ }}≈ 1.13 being the on-shell wavefunction renormalization of ρ owing to the {{ρ }}-{{π }} interaction. We emphasize that {m}{{ρ }} and {f}{{ρ }} of the q\\bar{q} component, which are obtained for the first time from QCD, can be taken as the input parameters of ρ in effective field theory studies where ρ acts as a fundamental degree of freedom. Supported in part by the U.S. DOE Grant No. DE-SC0013065, the National Nature Science Foundation of China (NSFC) (11335001, 11575196, 11575197, 11621131001) (CRC110 by DFG and NSFC), A. A. is supported in part by the National Science Foundation CAREER (PHY-1151648) and by U.S. DOE (DE-FG02-95ER40907), Y. C. thanks the CAS Center for Excellence in Particle Physics (CCEPP) for their support, this research used the resources of the Oak Ridge Leadership Computing Facility at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory, which is supported by the Office of Science of the U.S. Department of Energy (DE-AC05-00OR22725)

  4. Aircraft loss-of-control prevention and recovery: A hybrid control strategy

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Dongmo, Jean-Etienne Temgoua

    The Complexity of modern commercial and military aircrafts has necessitated better protection and recovery systems. With the tremendous advances in computer technology, control theory and better mathematical models, a number of issues (Prevention, Reconfiguration, Recovery, Operation near critical points, ... etc) moderately addressed in the past have regained interest in the aeronautical industry. Flight envelope is essential in all flying aerospace vehicles. Typically, flying the vehicle means remaining within the flight envelope at all times. Operation outside the normal flight regime is usually subject to failure of components (Actuators, Engines, Deflection Surfaces) , pilots's mistakes, maneuverability near critical points and environmental conditions (crosswinds...) and in general characterized as Loss-Of-Control (LOC) because the aircraft no longer responds to pilot's inputs as expected. For the purpose of this work, (LOC) in aircraft is defined as the departure from the safe set (controlled flight) recognized as the maximum controllable (reachable) set in the initial flight envelope. The LOC can be reached either through failure, unintended maneuvers, evolution near irregular points and disturbances. A coordinated strategy is investigated and designed to ensure that the aircraft can maneuver safely in their constraint domain and can also recover from abnormal regime. The procedure involves the computation of the largest controllable (reachable) set (Safe set) contained in the initial prescribed envelope. The problem is posed as a reachability problem using Hamilton-Jacobi Partial Differential Equation (HJ-PDE) where a cost function is set to he minimized along trajectory departing from the given set. Prevention is then obtained by computing the controller which would allow the flight vehicle to remain in the maximum controlled set in a multi-objective set up. Then the recovery procedure is illustrated with a two-point boundary value problem. Once illustrate, a set of control strategies is designed for recovery purpose ranging from nonlinear smooth regulators with Hamilton Jacobi-Hellman (HJB) formulation to the switching controllers with High Order Sliding Mode Controllers (HOSMC). A coordinated strategy known as a high level supervisor is then implemented using the multi-models concept where models operate in specified safe regions of the state space.

  5. Seminal plasma induces global transcriptomic changes associated with cell migration, proliferation and viability in endometrial epithelial cells and stromal fibroblasts.

    PubMed

    Chen, Joseph C; Johnson, Brittni A; Erikson, David W; Piltonen, Terhi T; Barragan, Fatima; Chu, Simon; Kohgadai, Nargis; Irwin, Juan C; Greene, Warner C; Giudice, Linda C; Roan, Nadia R

    2014-06-01

    How does seminal plasma (SP) affect the transcriptome of human primary endometrial epithelial cells (eEC) and stromal fibroblasts (eSF)? Exposure of eEC and eSF to SP in vitro increases expression of genes and secreted proteins associated with cellular migration, proliferation, viability and inhibition of cell death. Studies in both humans and animals suggest that SP can access and induce physiological changes in the upper female reproductive tract (FRT), which may participate in promoting reproductive success. This is a cross sectional study involving control samples versus treatment. SP (pooled from twenty donors) was first tested for dose- and time-dependent cytotoxic effects on eEC and eSF (n = 4). As exposure of eEC or eSF to 1% SP for 6 h proved to be non-toxic, a second set of eEC/eSF samples (n = 4) was treated under these conditions for transcriptome, protein and functional analysis. With a third set of samples (n = 3), we further compared the transcriptional response of the cells to SP versus fresh semen. eEC and eSF were isolated from endometrial biopsies from women of reproductive age undergoing benign gynecologic procedures and maintained in vitro. RNA was isolated and processed for microarray studies to analyze global transcriptomic changes. Secreted factors in conditioned media from SP-treated cells were analyzed by Luminex and for the ability to stimulate migration of CD14+ monocytes and CD4+ T cells. Pathway identifications were determined using the Z-scoring system in Ingenuity Pathways Analysis (Z scores ≥|1.5|). SP induced transcriptomic changes (P < 0.05) associated with promoting leukocyte and endothelial cell recruitment, and proliferation of eEC and eSF. Cell viability pathways were induced, while those associated with cell death were suppressed (P < 0.05). SP and fresh semen induced similar sets of pathways, suggesting that SP can model the signaling effects of semen in the endometrium. SP also induced secretion of pro-inflammatory and pro-chemotactic cytokines, as well as pro-angiogenic and proliferative growth factors (P < 0.05) in both eEC and eSF. Finally, functional assays revealed that conditioned media from SP-treated eEC and eSF significantly increased (P < 0.05) chemotaxis of CD14+ monocytes and CD4+ T cells. This study is limited to in vitro analyses of the effects of SP on endometrial cells. In addition, the measured response to SP was conducted in the absence of the ovarian hormones estradiol and progesterone, as well as epithelial-stromal paracrine signaling. While this study focused on establishing the baseline cellular response of endometrial cells to SP, future work should assess how hormone signaling in the presence of appropriate paracrine interactions affects SP-induced genes in these cells. The results of this study support previous findings that SP and semen contain bioactive factors capable of eliciting chemotactic responses in the uterus, which can lead to recruitment of leukocytes to the endometrium. Future directions will explore if similar changes in gene expression do indeed occur after coitus in vivo, and how the signaling cascades initiated by SP in the endometrium can affect reproductive success, female reproductive health and susceptibility to sexually transmitted diseases. The gene list provided by the transcriptome analysis reported here should prove a valuable resource for understanding the response of the upper FRT to SP exposure. This project was supported by NIH AI083050-04 (W.C.G./L.C.G.); NIH U54HD 055764 (L.C.G.); NIH 1F32HD074423-02 (J.C.C.); DOD W81XWH-11-1-0562 (W.C.G.); NIH 5K12-DK083021-04, NIH 1K99AI104262-01A1, The UCSF Hellman Award (N.R.R.). The authors have nothing to disclose.

  6. Development of an evaporation-optimized and water-permeable pavement

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Starke, P.; Göbel, P.; Coldewey, W. G.

    2009-04-01

    During recent decades, urban areas have been threatened more frequently by flood events. Furthermore, the potential for damage from these events has increased on average. The construction of houses, streets and parking lots has caused this trend by sealing the ground surface, i.e. these water-impermeable areas reduce the natural infiltration and evaporation-rates, and in some cases it is even completely stopped. The consequence is the so called "urban water cycle". Water from precipitation cannot be stored anywhere and so there is an immediate and very high surface run-off effect. Especially after intense rain events, canalisations and sewage-treatment plants are overloaded and this leads to higher costs for water treatment and to environmental damage. A practical solution to this problem is the use of water-permeable pavements. Here higher infiltration rates lead to a groundwater recharge that is greater than that of natural soils. The consequences from using these surfaces are already noticeable in many places through increasing groundwater levels. These increases cause damage to buildings. A second difference from a natural-soil water-balance is a lower evapotranspiration rate. Up to now the evaporation rates for water-permeable pavements has not been established accurately. The aim of the applied research project at the University of Muenster, which is sponsored by the DBU (The German Federal Environmental Foundation), is to gain knowledge of urban evaporation rates and of water-permeable surfaces, especially water-permeable pavements. Water-permeable pavements consist of the paving stone surface and the two sub-base layers below. Pre-investigations show that evaporation can be influenced by the complete sub-base. Therefore, the first step was to investigate which materials are used for sub-base construction. All in all, 27 materials were collected from throughout Germany and these materials were then tested (in terms of physical and hydraulic attributes) in the soil-mechanics laboratory of the University of Muenster. For their street construction useability, and having regard to evaporation, a selection of appropriate materials were built into a test field. The test field consisted of seven hexagonal areas each about 10 m2 large, which are placed in a honeycomb manner. The evaporation measurements are carried out with a WERNER tunnel-evaporation gauge (TUV) which is able to detect the actual evaporation rate. Its functional principle also allows a direct comparison between the middle reference area and one outer area of the test field. Every measuring period lasts one week and after that the TUV is moved to between the next outer area and the reference area. So the TUV rotates over the whole test field and every measuring area is covered by a measurement. In addition, a Hellman rain-gauge near the test field enables the measurement of a direct precipitation-evaporation ratio. Since the start of the measurements in July 2008, the first results collected showed that measureable differences in evaporation rates could be detected after a few measuring periods, i.e. the differences are up to 32% between the reference area and one outer area. In July 2009, the six outer measuring areas of the test field will be replaced and, based on the actual results collected, the sub-base layers will be replaced by an evaporation-optimized sub-base. The new outer measuring areas will only differ in terms of a different paving-stone surface. These paving stones are actually under developement and under laboratory testing (i.e. permeability, porosity, capillary water and evaporationrates), and so they will be evaporation-opimized. The open-air test in the test field is to assure and compare the evaporation rates. As a final result, the evaporation-optimized and water-permeable pavement and the knowledge of its exact drainage ratio will allow city planners or architects to build water-permeable streets with due regard to the respective area-specific conditions. This new developed pavement is an approximation to the water balance of a natural soil. In this way, the danger of flooding can be further reduced in urban areas.

  7. Seminal plasma induces global transcriptomic changes associated with cell migration, proliferation and viability in endometrial epithelial cells and stromal fibroblasts

    PubMed Central

    Chen, Joseph C.; Johnson, Brittni A.; Erikson, David W.; Piltonen, Terhi T.; Barragan, Fatima; Chu, Simon; Kohgadai, Nargis; Irwin, Juan C.; Greene, Warner C.; Giudice, Linda C.; Roan, Nadia R.

    2014-01-01

    STUDY QUESTION How does seminal plasma (SP) affect the transcriptome of human primary endometrial epithelial cells (eEC) and stromal fibroblasts (eSF)? SUMMARY ANSWER Exposure of eEC and eSF to SP in vitro increases expression of genes and secreted proteins associated with cellular migration, proliferation, viability and inhibition of cell death. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Studies in both humans and animals suggest that SP can access and induce physiological changes in the upper female reproductive tract (FRT), which may participate in promoting reproductive success. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This is a cross sectional study involving control samples versus treatment. SP (pooled from twenty donors) was first tested for dose- and time-dependent cytotoxic effects on eEC and eSF (n = 4). As exposure of eEC or eSF to 1% SP for 6 h proved to be non-toxic, a second set of eEC/eSF samples (n = 4) was treated under these conditions for transcriptome, protein and functional analysis. With a third set of samples (n = 3), we further compared the transcriptional response of the cells to SP versus fresh semen. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS eEC and eSF were isolated from endometrial biopsies from women of reproductive age undergoing benign gynecologic procedures and maintained in vitro. RNA was isolated and processed for microarray studies to analyze global transcriptomic changes. Secreted factors in conditioned media from SP-treated cells were analyzed by Luminex and for the ability to stimulate migration of CD14+ monocytes and CD4+ T cells. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Pathway identifications were determined using the Z-scoring system in Ingenuity Pathways Analysis (Z scores ≥|1.5|). SP induced transcriptomic changes (P < 0.05) associated with promoting leukocyte and endothelial cell recruitment, and proliferation of eEC and eSF. Cell viability pathways were induced, while those associated with cell death were suppressed (P < 0.05). SP and fresh semen induced similar sets of pathways, suggesting that SP can model the signaling effects of semen in the endometrium. SP also induced secretion of pro-inflammatory and pro-chemotactic cytokines, as well as pro-angiogenic and proliferative growth factors (P < 0.05) in both eEC and eSF. Finally, functional assays revealed that conditioned media from SP-treated eEC and eSF significantly increased (P < 0.05) chemotaxis of CD14+ monocytes and CD4+ T cells. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION This study is limited to in vitro analyses of the effects of SP on endometrial cells. In addition, the measured response to SP was conducted in the absence of the ovarian hormones estradiol and progesterone, as well as epithelial-stromal paracrine signaling. While this study focused on establishing the baseline cellular response of endometrial cells to SP, future work should assess how hormone signaling in the presence of appropriate paracrine interactions affects SP-induced genes in these cells. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The results of this study support previous findings that SP and semen contain bioactive factors capable of eliciting chemotactic responses in the uterus, which can lead to recruitment of leukocytes to the endometrium. Future directions will explore if similar changes in gene expression do indeed occur after coitus in vivo, and how the signaling cascades initiated by SP in the endometrium can affect reproductive success, female reproductive health and susceptibility to sexually transmitted diseases. The gene list provided by the transcriptome analysis reported here should prove a valuable resource for understanding the response of the upper FRT to SP exposure. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This project was supported by NIH AI083050-04 (W.C.G./L.C.G.); NIH U54HD 055764 (L.C.G.); NIH 1F32HD074423-02 (J.C.C.); DOD W81XWH-11-1-0562 (W.C.G.); NIH 5K12-DK083021-04, NIH 1K99AI104262-01A1, The UCSF Hellman Award (N.R.R.). The authors have nothing to disclose. PMID:24626806

  8. Water-soluble polymers and compositions thereof

    DOEpatents

    Smith, B.F.; Robison, T.W.; Gohdes, J.W.

    1999-04-06

    Water-soluble polymers including functionalization from the group of amino groups, carboxylic acid groups, phosphonic acid groups, phosphonic ester groups, acylpyrazolone groups, hydroxamic acid groups, aza crown ether groups, oxy crown ethers groups, guanidinium groups, amide groups, ester groups, aminodicarboxylic groups, permethylated polyvinylpyridine groups, permethylated amine groups, mercaptosuccinic acid groups, alkyl thiol groups, and N-alkylthiourea groups are disclosed.

  9. Water-soluble polymers and compositions thereof

    DOEpatents

    Smith, Barbara F.; Robison, Thomas W.; Gohdes, Joel W.

    2002-01-01

    Water-soluble polymers including functionalization from the group of amino groups, carboxylic acid groups, phosphonic acid groups, phosphonic ester groups, acylpyrazolone groups, hydroxamic acid groups, aza crown ether groups, oxy crown ethers groups, guanidinium groups, amide groups, ester groups, aminodicarboxylic groups, permethylated polvinylpyridine groups, permethylated amine groups, mercaptosuccinic acid groups, alkyl thiol groups, and N-alkylthiourea groups are disclosed.

  10. Water-soluble polymers and compositions thereof

    DOEpatents

    Smith, Barbara F.; Robison, Thomas W.; Gohdes, Joel W.

    1999-01-01

    Water-soluble polymers including functionalization from the group of amino groups, carboxylic acid groups, phosphonic acid groups, phosphonic ester groups, acylpyrazolone groups, hydroxamic acid groups, aza crown ether groups, oxy crown ethers groups, guanidinium groups, amide groups, ester groups, aminodicarboxylic groups, permethylated polyvinylpyridine groups, permethylated amine groups, mercaptosuccinic acid groups, alkyl thiol groups, and N-alkylthiourea groups are disclosed.

  11. Effect of clinician-patient communication on compliance with flupentixol-melitracen in functional dyspepsia patients

    PubMed Central

    Yan, Xiu-Juan; Li, Wen-Ting; Chen, Xin; Wang, Er-Man; Liu, Qing; Qiu, Hong-Yi; Cao, Zhi-Jun; Chen, Sheng-Liang

    2015-01-01

    AIM: To explore whether clinician-patient communication affects adherence to psychoactive drugs in functional dyspepsia (FD) patients with psychological symptoms. METHODS: A total of 262 FD patients with psychological symptoms were randomly assigned to four groups. The patients in Groups 1-3 were given flupentixol-melitracen (FM) plus omeprazole treatment. Those in Group 1 received explanations of both the psychological and gastrointestinal (GI) mechanisms of the generation of FD symptoms and the effects of FM. In Group 2, only the psychological mechanisms were emphasized. The patients in Group 3 were not given an explanation for the prescription of FM. Those in Group 4 were given omeprazole alone. The primary endpoints of this study were compliance rate and compliance index to FM in Groups 1-3. Survival analyses were also conducted. The secondary end points were dyspepsia and psychological symptom improvement in Groups 1-4. The correlations between the compliance indices and the reductions in dyspepsia and psychological symptom scores were also evaluated in Groups 1-3. RESULTS: After 8 wk of treatment, the compliance rates were 67.7% in Group 1, 42.4% in Group 2 and 47.7% in Group 3 (Group 1 vs Group 2, P = 0.006; Group 1 vs Group 3, P = 0.033). The compliance index (Group 1 vs Group 2, P = 0.002; Group 1 vs Group 3, P = 0.024) with the FM regimen was significantly higher in Group 1 than in Groups 2 and 3. The survival analysis revealed that the patients in Group 1 exhibited a significantly higher compliance rate than Groups 2 and 3 (Group 1 vs Group 2, P = 0.002; Group 1 vs Group 3, P = 0.018). The improvement in dyspepsia (Group 1 vs Group 2, P < 0.05; Group 1 vs Group 3, P < 0.05; Group 1 vs Group 4, P < 0.01) and psychological symptom scores (anxiety: Group 1 vs Group 2, P < 0.01; Group 1 vs Group 3, P < 0.05; Group 1 vs Group 4, P < 0.01; depression: Group 1 vs Group 2, P < 0.01; Group 1 vs Group 3, P < 0.01; Group 1 vs Group 4, P < 0.01) in Group 1 were greater than those in Groups 2-4. The compliance indices were positively correlated with the reduction in symptom scores in Groups 1-3. CONCLUSION: Appropriate clinician-patient communication regarding the reasons for prescribing psychoactive drugs that emphasizes both the psychological and GI mechanisms might improve adherence to FM in patients with FD. PMID:25914475

  12. Effect of clinician-patient communication on compliance with flupentixol-melitracen in functional dyspepsia patients.

    PubMed

    Yan, Xiu-Juan; Li, Wen-Ting; Chen, Xin; Wang, Er-Man; Liu, Qing; Qiu, Hong-Yi; Cao, Zhi-Jun; Chen, Sheng-Liang

    2015-04-21

    To explore whether clinician-patient communication affects adherence to psychoactive drugs in functional dyspepsia (FD) patients with psychological symptoms. A total of 262 FD patients with psychological symptoms were randomly assigned to four groups. The patients in Groups 1-3 were given flupentixol-melitracen (FM) plus omeprazole treatment. Those in Group 1 received explanations of both the psychological and gastrointestinal (GI) mechanisms of the generation of FD symptoms and the effects of FM. In Group 2, only the psychological mechanisms were emphasized. The patients in Group 3 were not given an explanation for the prescription of FM. Those in Group 4 were given omeprazole alone. The primary endpoints of this study were compliance rate and compliance index to FM in Groups 1-3. Survival analyses were also conducted. The secondary end points were dyspepsia and psychological symptom improvement in Groups 1-4. The correlations between the compliance indices and the reductions in dyspepsia and psychological symptom scores were also evaluated in Groups 1-3. After 8 wk of treatment, the compliance rates were 67.7% in Group 1, 42.4% in Group 2 and 47.7% in Group 3 (Group 1 vs Group 2, P = 0.006; Group 1 vs Group 3, P = 0.033). The compliance index (Group 1 vs Group 2, P = 0.002; Group 1 vs Group 3, P = 0.024) with the FM regimen was significantly higher in Group 1 than in Groups 2 and 3. The survival analysis revealed that the patients in Group 1 exhibited a significantly higher compliance rate than Groups 2 and 3 (Group 1 vs Group 2, P = 0.002; Group 1 vs Group 3, P = 0.018). The improvement in dyspepsia (Group 1 vs Group 2, P < 0.05; Group 1 vs Group 3, P < 0.05; Group 1 vs Group 4, P < 0.01) and psychological symptom scores (anxiety: Group 1 vs Group 2, P < 0.01; Group 1 vs Group 3, P < 0.05; Group 1 vs Group 4, P < 0.01; depression: Group 1 vs Group 2, P < 0.01; Group 1 vs Group 3, P < 0.01; Group 1 vs Group 4, P < 0.01) in Group 1 were greater than those in Groups 2-4. The compliance indices were positively correlated with the reduction in symptom scores in Groups 1-3. Appropriate clinician-patient communication regarding the reasons for prescribing psychoactive drugs that emphasizes both the psychological and GI mechanisms might improve adherence to FM in patients with FD.

  13. Theoretical Issues in Clinical Social Group Work.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Randall, Elizabeth; Wodarski, John S.

    1989-01-01

    Reviews relevant issues in clinical social group practice including group versus individual treatment, group work advantages, approach rationale, group conditions for change, worker role in group, group composition, group practice technique and method, time as group work dimension, pretherapy training, group therapy precautions, and group work…

  14. Correlation of ABO and Rh blood groups with transfusion administration and fever onset after hip surgery in children.

    PubMed

    Brdar, Radivoj; Petronic, Ivana; Nikolic, Dejan; Golubovic, Zoran; Bukva, Bojan; Radlovic, Vladimir; Abramovic, Dusan; Ducic, Sinisa; Colovic, Hristina

    2012-01-01

    Aim of our study was to evaluate distribution of ABO and Rh blood type groups in children after hip surgery regarding transfusion administration and fever presence. Four types of ABO blood groups (A; B; AB; O) and 2 types of Rh blood groups (Rh+; Rh-) were evaluated in group with administered transfusion (tr+) and without given transfusion (tr-); and in group with fever (fev+) and without fever (fev-), in 146 children after hip surgery. Tr+ and fev+ groups were divided into 3 groups (0-24h; 25-48h; 49-72h): for tr+ group (Group 1, Group 2, Group 3), and for fev+ group (Group A, Group B, Group C). AB blood group significantly decreased in Group 1 (χ2= 6.44; p<0.05) and A blood group in Group 3 in tr+ group (χ2= 7.68; p<0.01). O blood group significantly increased in Group 3 in tr+ group (χ2= 9.96; p<0.01). AB blood group significantly decreased in Groups B (χ2= 12.2; p<0.01) and C (χ2= 4.2; p<0.05) in fev+ versus fevgroup. B blood group significantly increased in Group C (χ2= 34.4; p<0.01) in fev+group. Administration of transfusion and fever onset in pediatric patients undergoing surgical correction of the hip is not influenced by the ABO and Rh blood groups system in humans. There is correlation between distribution of ABO blood groups with the time of transfusion administration and fever onset in children after hip surgery.

  15. ImPressOne: A Pressure Display and Acquisition Program for the Low Speed Wind Tunnel at DSTO

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2005-11-01

    Adjustable group; CZ, CS Group 1 – Pressure group A; A0, A1, A2, A3 Group 2 – Pressure group B; B0, B1, B2, B3 Group 3 – Pressure group C; C0, C1 Group...4 – Pressure group D; D0, D1 Group 5 – Temperature group Q; Q0, Q1 Group 6 – Temperature group R; R0, R1 Group 7 – Temperature group S; S0, S1

  16. Group processing in an undergraduate biology course for preservice teachers: Experiences and attitudes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Schellenberger, Lauren Brownback

    Group processing is a key principle of cooperative learning in which small groups discuss their strengths and weaknesses and set group goals or norms. However, group processing has not been well-studied at the post-secondary level or from a qualitative or mixed methods perspective. This mixed methods study uses a phenomenological framework to examine the experience of group processing for students in an undergraduate biology course for preservice teachers. The effect of group processing on students' attitudes toward future group work and group processing is also examined. Additionally, this research investigated preservice teachers' plans for incorporating group processing into future lessons. Students primarily experienced group processing as a time to reflect on past performance. Also, students experienced group processing as a time to increase communication among group members and become motivated for future group assignments. Three factors directly influenced students' experiences with group processing: (1) previous experience with group work, (2) instructor interaction, and (3) gender. Survey data indicated that group processing had a slight positive effect on students' attitudes toward future group work and group processing. Participants who were interviewed felt that group processing was an important part of group work and that it had increased their group's effectiveness as well as their ability to work effectively with other people. Participants held positive views on group work prior to engaging in group processing, and group processing did not alter their atittude toward group work. Preservice teachers who were interviewed planned to use group work and a modified group processing protocol in their future classrooms. They also felt that group processing had prepared them for their future professions by modeling effective collaboration and group skills. Based on this research, a new model for group processing has been created which includes extensive instructor interaction and additional group processing sessions. This study offers a new perspective on the phenomenon of group processing and informs science educators and teacher educators on the effective implementation of this important component of small-group learning.

  17. [Effects of combined natural hirudin and hyperbaric oxygen therapy on survival of transplanted random-pattern skin flap in rats].

    PubMed

    Cai, Jieyun; Lin, Bojie; Pan, Xinyuan; Cui, Jia; Pradhan, Rohan; Yin, Guoqian

    2018-04-01

    To investigate the effect of natural hirudin combined with hyperbaric oxygen therapy on the survival of transplanted random-pattern skin flap in rats. A random-pattern skin flap in size of 10.0 cm×2.5 cm was elevated on the dorsum of 72 Sprague Dawley rats. Then the 72 rats were randomly divided into 4 groups ( n =18) according to the therapy method. At immediate and within 4 days after operation, the rats were treated with normal saline injection in control group, normal saline injection combined with hyperbaric oxygen treatment in hyperbaric oxygen group, the natural hirudin injection in natural hirudin group, and the natural hirudin injection combined with hyperbaric oxygen treatment in combined group. The flap survival was observed after operation, and survival rate was evaluated at 6 days after operation. The skin samples were collected for histological analysis, microvessel density (MVD) measurement, and evaluation of tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) expression level by the immunohistochemical staining at 2 and 4 days after operation. Partial necrosis occurred in each group after operation, and the flap in combined group had the best survival. The survival rate of flap was significantly higher in hyperbaric oxygen group, natural hirudin group, and combined group than that in control group, and in combined group than in hyperbaric oxygen group and natural hirudin group ( P <0.05). There was no significant difference between hyperbaric oxygen group and natural hirudin group ( P >0.05). At 2 days, more microvascular structure was observed in hyperbaric oxygen group, natural hirudin group, and combined group in comparison with control group; while plenty of inflammatory cells infiltration in all groups. At 4 days, the hyperbaric oxygen group, natural hirudin group, and the combined group still showed more angiogenesis. Meanwhile, there was still infiltration of inflammatory cells in control group, inflammatory cells in the other groups were significantly reduced when compared with at 2 days. At 2 days, the MVD was significantly higher in hyperbaric oxygen group, natural hirudin group, and combined group than that in control group ( P <0.05); the expression of TNF-α was significantly lower in hyperbaric oxygen group, natural hirudin group, and combined group than that in control group ( P <0.05). There was no significant difference in above indexes between hyperbaric oxygen group, natural hirudin group, and combined group ( P >0.05). At 4 days, the MVD was significantly higher in hyperbaric oxygen group, natural hirudin group, and combined group than that in control group, in natural hirudin group and combined group than in hyperbaric oxygen group ( P <0.05). The expression of TNF-α was significantly lower in hyperbaric oxygen group, natural hirudin group, and combined group than that in control group, in combined group than in natural hirudin group and hyperbaric oxygen group ( P <0.05). Hyperbaric oxygen and natural hirudin therapy after random-pattern skin flap transplantation can improve the survival of flaps. Moreover, combined therapy is seen to exhibit significant synergistic effect. This effect maybe related to promotion of angiogenesis and the reduction of inflammation response.

  18. Between-group competition elicits within-group cooperation in children

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Majolo, Bonaventura; Maréchal, Laëtitia

    2017-02-01

    Aggressive interactions between groups are frequent in human societies and can bear significant fitness costs and benefits (e.g. death or access to resources). During between-group competitive interactions, more cohesive groups (i.e. groups formed by individuals who cooperate in group defence) should out-perform less cohesive groups, other factors being equal (e.g. group size). The cost/benefit of between-group competition are thought to have driven correlated evolution of traits that favour between-group aggression and within-group cooperation (e.g. parochial altruism). Our aim was to analyse whether the proximate relationship between between-group competition and within-group cooperation is found in 3-10 years old children and the developmental trajectory of such a relationship. We used a large cohort of children (n = 120) and tested whether simulated between-group competition increased within-group cooperation (i.e. how much of a resource children were giving to their group companions) in two experiments. We found greater within-group cooperation when groups of four children were competing with other groups then in the control condition (no between-group competition). Within-group cooperation increased with age. Our study suggests that parochial altruism and in-group/out-group biases emerge early during the course of human development.

  19. Between-group competition elicits within-group cooperation in children

    PubMed Central

    Majolo, Bonaventura; Maréchal, Laëtitia

    2017-01-01

    Aggressive interactions between groups are frequent in human societies and can bear significant fitness costs and benefits (e.g. death or access to resources). During between-group competitive interactions, more cohesive groups (i.e. groups formed by individuals who cooperate in group defence) should out-perform less cohesive groups, other factors being equal (e.g. group size). The cost/benefit of between-group competition are thought to have driven correlated evolution of traits that favour between-group aggression and within-group cooperation (e.g. parochial altruism). Our aim was to analyse whether the proximate relationship between between-group competition and within-group cooperation is found in 3–10 years old children and the developmental trajectory of such a relationship. We used a large cohort of children (n = 120) and tested whether simulated between-group competition increased within-group cooperation (i.e. how much of a resource children were giving to their group companions) in two experiments. We found greater within-group cooperation when groups of four children were competing with other groups then in the control condition (no between-group competition). Within-group cooperation increased with age. Our study suggests that parochial altruism and in-group/out-group biases emerge early during the course of human development. PMID:28233820

  20. [Comparative study of complications among routine method,high speed turbine handpiece and piezosurgery device after extraction of impacted wisdom teeth].

    PubMed

    Guo, Zhao-zhong; Zhang, Heng; Li, Yan; Li, Xin; Liu, Yin; Wang, Yang; Yuan, Chun-xia; Liu, Xue

    2012-04-01

    To investigate complications in extraction of complicated impacted wisdom teeth whose root apex near to the inferior alveolar nerve(IAN) by using routine method(chisels),high speed turbine handpiece and piezosurgery device respectively. Three hundred qualified patients with impacted wisdom teeth were divided into three groups randomly,one hundred patients in group A were extracted by routine method, one hundred patients in group B were extracted by high speed turbine handpiece, and one hundred patients in group C were extracted by piezosurgery device. The operation time, postoperative pain duration,dry socket and IAN injury were compared between each two groups. All statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 13.0 software package. Differences between groups were compared using a paired t test (quantitative data) or Chi-square test (qualitative data). The operation time in group A was(14.12±0.12)min, (7.22±0.15)min in group B, (25.23±0.32)min in group C; Significant difference was found between group A and group B(P<0.05), group B and group C(P<0.05),group A and group C(P<0.05).Postoperative pain duration was(62.15±1.51)h in group A, (48.23±1.23)h in group B, (14.34±O.80)h in group C; Significant difference was found between group A and group B(P<0.05), group B and group C(P<0.05),group A and group C(P<0.05).9 patients developed dry socket in group A, 2 in group B, and 1 in group C; Significant difference was found between group A and group B(P<0.05), group A and group C(P<0.05). Six patients had IAN injury in group A, 2 in group B, 0 in group C. Significant difference was found between group A and group C. Compared with routine method, high speed turbine is better in extraction of impacted wisdom teeth, which can shorten operation time, lessen postoperative complications. Although there was longer operation time compared with group A and B, piezosurgery device is more effective in reducing postoperative complications.

  1. [Experimental study on avascular necrosis of femoral head in chickens induced by different glucocorticoides].

    PubMed

    Xiao, Chun-Sheng; Lin, Na; Lin, Shi-Fu; Wan, Rong; Chen, Wei-Heng

    2010-03-01

    To study the effects of Methylprednisolone and Dexamethasone on the avascular necrosis of femoral head in chickens. Thirty-six chickens were randomly divided into 6 groups (n = 6): control group (group A), Methylprednisolone low dose group (group B), Methylprednisolone large dose group (group C), small dose Dexamethasone and horse serum group (group D), middle dose Dexamethasone and horse serum group (group E), and Dexamethasone large dose group (group F). On the 6th and 12th weeks, blood samples were obtained to determine the level of total cholesterol triglyeride (TG), high density lipoprotein (HDL) and low density lipoprotein (LDL). On the 12th week, femoral heads were taken off. Paraffin tissue sections were prepared to detect histopathologic change with hematoxylin and eosin staining. On the 6th week, compared with group A, the level of CHO increased significantly in group C and group F (P < 0.05), and TG increased in group B, C and group E, while HDL decreased in group B, C and group E. On the 12th week, the level of TG and CHO increased in group B, C, E and group F, and HDL decreased in group C, D and group E (P < 0.05). LDL was not detected in most chickens. The ratio of empty lacuna was higher in group C and group E compared with those of the control group (P < 0.05). Methylprednisolone is easier to induce osteonecrosis of femoral head than Dexamethasone. The condition of metabolic disorder in blood may be the basic pathomechanism of steroid-induced necrosis of femoral head.

  2. [Asymmetric effect of in-group social values on identity with common-identity and common-bond in-groups].

    PubMed

    Nakashima, Ken'ichiro; Isobe, Chikae; Toshihiko, Souma; Ura, Mitsuhiro

    2013-06-01

    Moderating effects of group type on the relationship between in-group social values and group identity were investigated. Previous research has indicated that values attached to the in-group, such as its status, privileges, and power, lead to increased group identity. However, these studies have not investigated the role of the type of in-groups on this effect. We conducted an experiment that manipulated the in-group type. In the common-identity type of in-group condition, formation of in- and out-groups on the basis of social categorization was established. In the common-bond type of in-group condition, interactions between the group members were conducted. Results indicated that in the former condition, the degree of in-group social values affected group identity; however, this effect was not found in the latter condition. These results suggest that social values of the in-group have an asymmetric effect on group identity, depending upon the in-group type as a common-identity or common-bond group.

  3. Effect of Different Starvation Levels on Cognitive Ability in Mice

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Li, Xiaobing; Zhi, Guoguo; Yu, Yi; Cai, Lingyu; Li, Peng; Zhang, Danhua; Bao, Shuting; Hu, Wenlong; Shen, Haiyan; Song, Fujuan

    2018-01-01

    Objective: To study the effect of different starvation levels on cognitive ability in mice. Method: Mice were randomly divided into four groups: normal group, dieting group A, dieting group B, dieting group C. The mice of normal group were given normal feeding amount, the rest of groups were given 3/4 of normal feeding amount, 2/4 of normal feeding amount and 1/4 of normal feeding amount. After feeding mice four days, the weight was observed and T-maze experiment, Morris water maze test, open field test and Serum Catalase activity were detected. Result: Compared with the normal group, the correct rate of the intervention group in the T-maze experiment was decreased and dieting group A> dieting group B> dieting group C. In the Morris water maze test, Compared with the normal group, the correct rate of the intervention group was increased. Among these three intervention groups, dieting group A had the highest correct rate and the difference of dieting group B and dieting group C were similar. In the open field test, Compared with the normal group, the exploration rate of the surrounding environment in the intervention group was increased. In the Serum Catalase test, Compared with the normal group, the activities of serum peroxidase in the intervention groups were decreased and dieting group A> dieting group B> dieting group C. Conclusion: A certain level of starvation could affect the cognitive ability of mice. In a certain range, the level of starvation is inversely proportional to cognitive ability in mice.

  4. Territorial choruses of giant otter groups (Pteronura brasiliensis) encode information on group identity.

    PubMed

    Mumm, Christina A S; Knörnschild, Mirjam

    2017-01-01

    Group living animals often engage in corporate territorial defence. Territorial group vocalizations can provide information about group identity, size and composition. Neighbouring groups may use this information to avoid unfavourable direct conflicts. Giant otters are highly social and territorial animals with an elaborate vocal repertoire. They produce long-range screams when they are alert or excited, i.e. in an alarm, isolation or begging context. Long-range screams are not only produced by one individual at a time ('single screams') but also by multiple group members simultaneously, resulting in a highly conspicuous 'group chorus'. Wild giant otters regularly produce group choruses during interactions with predators, when they detect intruders in their territory or before group reunions after separation. Since single screams and especially group choruses probably contribute to the groups' corporate territorial defence, we hypothesized that group identity is encoded in single screams and group choruses. We analysed vocalizations from five wild and three captive giant otter groups and found statistical evidence for a group signature in group choruses. Results for single screams were less conclusive, which might have been caused by the comparatively lower sample size. We suggest that giant otters may gain information on group identity by listening to group choruses. Group identity likely constitutes important social information for giant otters since territory boundaries of neighbouring groups can overlap and direct inter-group conflicts are severe. Therefore, group chorusing may contribute to the mutual avoidance of members from different groups.

  5. Fracture resistance of zirconia-based implant abutments after artificial long-term aging.

    PubMed

    Alsahhaf, Abdulaziz; Spies, Benedikt Christopher; Vach, Kirstin; Kohal, Ralf-Joachim

    2017-02-01

    To investigate the survival rate, fracture strength, bending moments, loading to fracture and fracture modes of different designs of zirconia abutments after dynamic loading with thermocycling, and compare these values to titanium abutments. A total of 80 abutment samples were divided into 5 test groups of 16 samples in each group. The study included the following groups, "Group 1" CAD/CAM produced all-zirconia abutments, "Group 2" titanium abutments, "Group 3" zirconia-abutments adhesively luted to a titanium base, "Group 4" prefabricated all-zirconia abutments and "Group 5" zirconia-abutments glass soldered to a titanium base. Half the number of samples in each group was exposed to 1.2 million loading cycles (5-years simulation) in the chewing simulator. The samples that survived the artificial aging were later tested for fracture strength in a universal testing machine. The remaining 8 samples of the group were directly tested for fracture strength. All samples exposed to the 5-years artificial aging survived except of six samples in one group (Group 1). The surviving samples were later fracture tested in the universal testing machine. The bending moments (Ncm) values were as follow: Exposed groups: "Group 1" 94.5Ncm; "Group 2" 599.2Ncm; "Group 3" 477.5Ncm; "Group 4" 314.4Ncm; "Group 5" 509.4Ncm. Non-exposed groups: "Group 1" 269.3Ncm; "Group 2" 474.2Ncm; "Group 3" 377.6Ncm; "Group 4" 265.4Ncm; "Group 5" 372.4Ncm. Except in Group 1, the values were higher in the exposed groups, although, statistically there was no difference (p>0.05). The one-piece ZrO2-abutment group (Group 1 and Group 4) exhibited lower values, while the two-piece ZrO2-abutment groups (Group 3 and Group 5) showed similar values and fracture modes like the titanium abutment group. The titanium abutment group showed the highest values of bending moments among all groups. The implant-abutment connection area appeared to influence the bending moment value and the fracture mode of the tested abutment groups, and it was found to be the weakest part of an internal connection one-piece zirconia abutment. The titanium base in the two-piece zirconia abutment worked as a substitute for the weakest part of the abutment. Therefore, the titanium base can reinforce the fracture strength of a zirconia abutment. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  6. T-Group and Therapy Group Communication: An Interaction Analysis of the Group Process.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Fisher, B. Aubrey

    1979-01-01

    Provides an insight into the group process of therapy and compares and contrasts the T-group process with therapy group process. The here-and-now orientation was present in T-group and therapy-group interaction. Greater relational conflict was present in the T-group. Members of the therapy group were much more defensive than members of the…

  7. [Perinatal complications in patients with chronic renal insufficiency on hemodialysis].

    PubMed

    Vázquez-Rodríguez, Juan Gustavo; del Angel-García, Guadalupe

    2010-09-01

    Pregnant patients with chronic renal insufficiency treated with hemodialysis experience adverse perinatal results. To compare perinatal complications of patients with chronic renal insufficiency undergoing hemodialysis who become pregnant vs. the complications of women with chronic renal insufficiency not undergoing dialysis but who then require dialysis during gestation. Transversal and retrospective study that included three patients with chronic renal insufficiency on chronic hemodialysis who became pregnant (group A) and three patients with chronic renal insufficiency without hemodialysis at the time of conception but who required dialysis during gestation (group B). Perinatal results were compared. Statistical analysis was performed with measures of central tendency and dispersion and Student t-test. Group A had 25 sessions vs. group B with 29 hemodialysis sessions (p = 0.88). Maternal complications were anemia 100% (six cases), Cesarean delivery 83.3% (group A 2 cases vs. group B 2 cases), preeclampsia 50% (group A 2 cases vs. group B 1 case), uncontrolled hypertension 50% (group A 2 cases vs. group B 1 case), preterm delivery 50% (group A 2 cases vs. group B 1 case), transfusion 33.3% (group A 2 cases), polyhydramnios 33.3% (group A 1 case vs. group B 1 case) and abortion 16.6% (group A 1 case). Fetal complications included fetal loss 16.6% (group A 1 case), neonatal mortality 33.3% (group A 1 cases vs. group B 1 case), prematurity 50% (group A2 cases vs. group B 1 case), fetal distress 50% (group A 1 case vs. group B 2 cases), respiratory failure 33.3% (group A 2 cases) and fetal growth restriction 16.6% (group A 1 case). Frequency of perinatal complications is elevated in both groups.

  8. In-group defense, out-group aggression, and coordination failures in intergroup conflict.

    PubMed

    De Dreu, Carsten K W; Gross, Jörg; Méder, Zsombor; Giffin, Michael; Prochazkova, Eliska; Krikeb, Jonathan; Columbus, Simon

    2016-09-20

    Intergroup conflict persists when and because individuals make costly contributions to their group's fighting capacity, but how groups organize contributions into effective collective action remains poorly understood. Here we distinguish between contributions aimed at subordinating out-groups (out-group aggression) from those aimed at defending the in-group against possible out-group aggression (in-group defense). We conducted two experiments in which three-person aggressor groups confronted three-person defender groups in a multiround contest game (n = 276; 92 aggressor-defender contests). Individuals received an endowment from which they could contribute to their group's fighting capacity. Contributions were always wasted, but when the aggressor group's fighting capacity exceeded that of the defender group, the aggressor group acquired the defender group's remaining resources (otherwise, individuals on both sides were left with the remainders of their endowment). In-group defense appeared stronger and better coordinated than out-group aggression, and defender groups survived roughly 70% of the attacks. This low success rate for aggressor groups mirrored that of group-hunting predators such as wolves and chimpanzees (n = 1,382 cases), hostile takeovers in industry (n = 1,637 cases), and interstate conflicts (n = 2,586). Furthermore, whereas peer punishment increased out-group aggression more than in-group defense without affecting success rates (Exp. 1), sequential (vs. simultaneous) decision-making increased coordination of collective action for out-group aggression, doubling the aggressor's success rate (Exp. 2). The relatively high success rate of in-group defense suggests evolutionary and cultural pressures may have favored capacities for cooperation and coordination when the group goal is to defend, rather than to expand, dominate, and exploit.

  9. Me against we: in-group transgression, collective shame, and in-group-directed hostility.

    PubMed

    Piff, Paul K; Martinez, Andres G; Keltner, Dacher

    2012-01-01

    People can experience great distress when a group to which they belong (in-group) is perceived to have committed an immoral act. We hypothesised that people would direct hostility toward a transgressing in-group whose actions threaten their self-image and evoke collective shame. Consistent with this theorising, three studies found that reminders of in-group transgression provoked several expressions of in-group-directed hostility, including in-group-directed hostile emotion (Studies 1 and 2), in-group-directed derogation (Study 2), and in-group-directed punishment (Study 3). Across studies, collective shame-but not the related group-based emotion collective guilt-mediated the relationship between in-group transgression and in-group-directed hostility. Implications for group-based emotion, social identity, and group behaviour are discussed.

  10. [Effect of parecoxib on hippocampal inflammation and memory function in aged rats after splenectomy].

    PubMed

    Li, Peng; Yang, Mengchang; Yang, Xue; Liu, Ziling

    2016-06-28

    To explore the effect of parecoxib on hippocampal inflammation and short-term memory function after splenectomy in aged rats.
 A total of 90 aged male SD rats were randomly divided into 9 groups (all n=10): a control group (Group C), an anesthesia day 1 group (A1 group), an operation day 1 group (O1 group), a saline day 1 group (S1 group), a parecoxib day 1 group (P1 group), an anesthesia day 3 group (A3 group), an operation day 3 group (O3 group), a saline day 3 group (S3 group), and a parecoxib day 3 group (P3 group). In the A1 group and A3 group, rats were anesthetized by intraperitoneal injection of pentobarbital sodium. Under anesthesia condition, rats in the O1 group and O3 group underwent splenectomy. One hour before splenectomy, rats in the P1 group and P3 group received parecoxib injection of 10 mg/kg via tail vein. In the S1 group and S3 group, rats received the same dose of saline. The rats were trained for 5 days in shuttle box before anesthesia, surgery and drug treatment. After shuttle box test, the rats were killed at postoperative 1 and 3 d. The hippocampus was isolated to measure the CD11b expression by immunofluorescent staining, and TNF-α, IL-1 and COX-2 mRNA expression by RT-PCR.
 Compared with the Group C, the electric shock time was increased in the O1 and O3 groups, but the active escape time was shortened and the active avoidance reaction (AAR) was decreased (all P<0.01). Compared with the O1 or O3 group, the electric shock time was shortened, the active escape time and AAR was increased in the P1 or P3 group (all P<0.05). There were more CD11b positive cells and TNF-α, IL-1β, COX-2 mRNA expression in hippocampus in the O1, O3, S1 or S3 group compared with the Group C (all P<0.01). Both CD11b positive cells and TNF-α, IL-1β, COX-2 mRNA expression were decreased in the P1 or P3 group compared with that in the O1 or O3 group (all P<0.01). 
 The parecoxib could reduce hippocampal inflammation and improve short-term memory function through the inhibition of COX-2 expression in aged rats after splenectomy.

  11. Molecular symmetry: Why permutation-inversion (PI) groups don't render the point groups obsolete

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Groner, Peter

    2018-01-01

    The analysis of spectra of molecules with internal large-amplitude motions (LAMs) requires molecular symmetry (MS) groups that are larger than and significantly different from the more familiar point groups. MS groups are described often by the permutation-inversion (PI) group method. It is shown that point groups still can and should play a significant role together with the PI groups for a class of molecules with internal rotors. In molecules of this class, several simple internal rotors are attached to a rigid molecular frame. The PI groups for this class are semidirect products like H ^ F, where the invariant subgroup H is a direct product of cyclic groups and F is a point group. This result is used to derive meaningful labels for MS groups, and to derive correlation tables between MS groups and point groups. MS groups of this class have many parallels to space groups of crystalline solids.

  12. Roles of participation and feedback in group potency.

    PubMed

    Gamero, Nuria; Peiró, José M; Zornoza, Ana; Picazo, Carmen

    2009-08-01

    The roles of group participation and group performance feedback were examined as antecedents of group potency, i.e., beliefs shared among a work group's members about the general effectiveness of the work group. Also examined were how group participation and the congruence of the feedback received from different sources about performance predicted convergence in members' beliefs about group effectiveness. The sample comprised 61 work groups of professionals involved in Master in Business Administration (MBA) programs (284 participants). Mean group size was 4.6 members (SD = .58). 65% of participants were male, and 51% were between 30 and 40 years of age. Data were gathered at two measurement times. Increases in group participation were positively related to increases in group potency and the convergence in beliefs about group effectiveness among group members over time. Results supported the premise that group performance feedback is an antecedent of changes in group potency over time.

  13. Cooperation during cultural group formation promotes trust towards members of out-groups.

    PubMed

    Pan, Xiaofei Sophia; Houser, Daniel

    2013-07-07

    People often cooperate with members of their own group, and discriminate against members of other groups. Previous research establishes that cultural groups can form endogenously, and that these groups demonstrate in-group favouritism. Given the presence of cultural groups, the previous literature argues that cultural evolution selects for groups that exhibit parochial altruism. The source of initial variation in these traits, however, remains uninformed. We show here that a group's economic production environment may substantially influence parochial tendencies, with groups formed around more cooperative production (CP) displaying less parochialism than groups formed around more independent production (IP) processes. Participants randomized into CP and IP production tasks formed cultural groups, and subsequently played hidden-action trust games with in-group and out-group trustees. We found CP to be associated with significantly greater sharing and exchanging behaviours than IP. In trust games, significant parochial altruism (in-group favouritism combined with out-group discrimination) was displayed by members of IP groups. By contrast, members of CP groups did not engage in either in-group favouritism or out-group discrimination. Further, we found the absence of out-group discrimination in CP to persist even following 'betrayal'. Finally, belief data suggest that members of CP are not more intrinsically generous than IP members, but rather more likely to believe that out-group trustees will positively reciprocate. Our results have important implications for anyone interested in building cooperative teams, and shed new light on connections between culture and cooperation.

  14. Assessment of Group Preferences and Group Uncertainty for Decision Making

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1976-06-01

    the individ- uals. decision making , group judgments should be preferred to individual judgments if obtaining group judgments costs more. -26- -YI IV... decision making group . IV. A. 3. Aggregation using conjugate distribution. Arvther procedure for combining indivi(jai probability judgments into a group...statisticized group group decision making group judgment subjective probability Delphi method expected utility nominal group 20. ABSTRACT (Continue on

  15. The Effects of Music and Group Stage on Group Leader and Member Behavior in Psychoeducational Groups for Children of Divorce

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Cercone, Kristin; DeLucia-Waack, Janice

    2012-01-01

    This study examined the effects of music and group stage on group process and group leader and member behavior within 8-week psychoeducational groups for children of divorce. Audiotapes of group sessions were rated using the Interactional Process Analysis and the Group Sessions Ratings Scale. Both treatment groups were very similar in terms of…

  16. The effectiveness of multimedia visual perceptual training groups for the preschool children with developmental delay.

    PubMed

    Chen, Yi-Nan; Lin, Chin-Kai; Wei, Ta-Sen; Liu, Chi-Hsin; Wuang, Yee-Pay

    2013-12-01

    This study compared the effectiveness of three approaches to improving visual perception among preschool children 4-6 years old with developmental delays: multimedia visual perceptual group training, multimedia visual perceptual individual training, and paper visual perceptual group training. A control group received no special training. This study employed a pretest-posttest control group of true experimental design. A total of 64 children 4-6 years old with developmental delays were randomized into four groups: (1) multimedia visual perceptual group training (15 subjects); (2) multimedia visual perceptual individual training group (15 subjects); paper visual perceptual group training (19 subjects); and (4) a control group (15 subjects) with no visual perceptual training. Forty minute training sessions were conducted once a week for 14 weeks. The Test of Visual Perception Skills, third edition, was used to evaluate the effectiveness of the intervention. Paired-samples t-test showed significant differences pre- and post-test among the three groups, but no significant difference was found between the pre-test and post-test scores among the control group. ANOVA results showed significant differences in improvement levels among the four study groups. Scheffe post hoc test results showed significant differences between: group 1 and group 2; group 1 and group 3; group 1 and the control group; and group 2 and the control group. No significant differences were reported between group 2 and group 3, and group 3 and the control group. The results showed all three therapeutic programs produced significant differences between pretest and posttest scores. The training effect on the multimedia visual perceptual group program and the individual program was greater than the developmental effect Both the multimedia visual perceptual group training program and the multimedia visual perceptual individual training program produced significant effects on visual perception. The multimedia visual perceptual group training program was more effective for improving visual perception than was multimedia visual perceptual individual training program. The multimedia visual perceptual group training program was more effective than was the paper visual perceptual group training program. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  17. Cognitive distance, absorptive capacity and group rationality: a simulation study.

    PubMed

    Curşeu, Petru Lucian; Krehel, Oleh; Evers, Joep H M; Muntean, Adrian

    2014-01-01

    We report the results of a simulation study in which we explore the joint effect of group absorptive capacity (as the average individual rationality of the group members) and cognitive distance (as the distance between the most rational group member and the rest of the group) on the emergence of collective rationality in groups. We start from empirical results reported in the literature on group rationality as collective group level competence and use data on real-life groups of four and five to validate a mathematical model. We then use this mathematical model to predict group level scores from a variety of possible group configurations (varying both in cognitive distance and average individual rationality). Our results show that both group competence and cognitive distance are necessary conditions for emergent group rationality. Group configurations, in which the groups become more rational than the most rational group member, are groups scoring low on cognitive distance and scoring high on absorptive capacity.

  18. Cognitive Distance, Absorptive Capacity and Group Rationality: A Simulation Study

    PubMed Central

    Curşeu, Petru Lucian; Krehel, Oleh; Evers, Joep H. M.; Muntean, Adrian

    2014-01-01

    We report the results of a simulation study in which we explore the joint effect of group absorptive capacity (as the average individual rationality of the group members) and cognitive distance (as the distance between the most rational group member and the rest of the group) on the emergence of collective rationality in groups. We start from empirical results reported in the literature on group rationality as collective group level competence and use data on real-life groups of four and five to validate a mathematical model. We then use this mathematical model to predict group level scores from a variety of possible group configurations (varying both in cognitive distance and average individual rationality). Our results show that both group competence and cognitive distance are necessary conditions for emergent group rationality. Group configurations, in which the groups become more rational than the most rational group member, are groups scoring low on cognitive distance and scoring high on absorptive capacity. PMID:25314132

  19. Bronchial and bronchovascular sleeve resection for treatment of central lung tumors.

    PubMed

    Lausberg, H F; Graeter, T P; Wendler, O; Demertzis, S; Ukena, D; Schäfers, H J

    2000-08-01

    To improve postoperative pulmonary reserve, we have employed parenchyma-sparing resections for central lung tumors irrespective of pulmonary function. The results of lobectomy, pneumonectomy, and sleeve resection were analyzed retrospectively. From October 1995 to June 1999, 422 typical lung resections were performed for lung cancer. Of these, 301 were lobectomies (group I), 81 were sleeve resections (group II), and 40 were pneumonectomies (group III). Operative mortality was 2% in group I, 1.2% in group II, and 7.5% in group III (group I and II vs. group III, p<0.03). Mean time of intubation was 1.0+/-4.1 days in group I, 0.9+/-1.3 days in group II, and 3.6+/-11.2 days in group III (groups I and II vs. group III, p<0.01). The incidence of bronchial complications was 1.3% in group I, none in group II, and 7.5% in group III (group I and II vs group III, p<0.001). After 2 years, survival was 64% in group I, 61.9% in group II, and 56.1% in group III (p = NS). Freedom from local disease recurrence was 92.1% in group I, 95.7% in group II, and 90.9% in group III after 2 years (p = NS). Sleeve resection is a useful surgical option for the treatment of central lung tumors, thus avoiding pneumonectomy with its associated risks. Morbidity, early mortality, long-term survival, and recurrence of disease after sleeve resection are similar to those seen after lobectomy.

  20. Choroidal thickness changes determined by EDI-OCT on acute anterior uveitis in patients with HLA-B27-positive ankylosing spondylitis.

    PubMed

    Basarir, Berna; Celik, Ugur; Altan, Cigdem; Celik, Nimet Burcu

    2018-02-01

    To evaluate the choroidal thickness on acute anterior uveitis in patients with HLA-B27-positive ankylosing spondylitis. In this study, 32 eyes of 16 HLA-B27 positive AS patients with anterior uveitis and age-matched 19 eyes for control group were analyzed between January 2014 and April 2015. Assessment criteria were uveitis activity, visual acuity, flare existence, subfoveal choroidal thickness and central macular thickness measurements. The mean subfoveal choroidal thicknesses in affected eye group (Group 1), unaffected eye group (Group 2) and control group (Group 3) were 348.31 ± 72.7, 301.12 ± 49.2 and 318.0 ± 74.3, respectively, in active periods. (p = 0.04 between Group 1 and Group 2, p = 0.234 between Group 1 and Group 3) The mean central macular thicknesses of Group 1, Group 2 and Group 3 were 268.50 ± 16.5, 267.31 ± 16.3 and 249.7 ± 30.5, respectively, in active periods. (p = 0.84 between Group 1 and Group 2, p = 0.029 between Group 1 and Group 3). However, in convalescence period, the mean subfoveal choroidal thicknesses of Group 1, Group 2 and Group 3 were 322.40 ± 48.5, 300.75 ± 47.7 and 318.0 ± 74.3, respectively. (p = 0.22 between Group 1 and Group 2, p = 0.854 between Group 1 and Group 3) The mean central macular thicknesses of Group 1, Group 2 and Group 3 were 269.75 ± 21.9, 256.62 ± 21.5 and 249.7 ± 30.5, respectively. (p = 0.09 between Group 1 and Group 2, p = 0.03 between Group 1 and Group 3). In HLA-B27 positive ankylosing spondylitis patients with anterior uveitis, the choroidal thicknesses of the affected eyes were found as thicker than fellow unaffected one or control eyes in active period. The central macular thicknesses are not affected on both active and convalescent period.

  1. Therapeutic effect of magnesium sulphate on carbon monoxide toxicity-mediated brain lipid peroxidation.

    PubMed

    Yavuz, Y; Mollaoglu, H; Yürümez, Y; Ucok, K; Duran, L; Tünay, K; Akgün, L

    2013-02-01

    Carbon monoxide (CO) toxicity primarily results from cellular hypoxia caused by impedance of oxygen delivery. Studies show that CO may cause brain lipid peroxidation and leukocyte-mediated inflammatory changes in the brain. The aim of this study was to investigate whether magnesium sulphate could prevent or diminish brain lipid peroxidation caused by carbon monoxide toxicity in rats. Fourty rats were divided into five groups of 8 rats each. Group l was not received any agent during the experiment. Group 2 was inhaled CO gas followed by intraperitoneally normal saline 30 minutes (min) later. Group 3 was inhaled CO gas followed by 100 mg/kg magnesium sulphate intraperitoneally 30 min later. Group 2 and Group 3 rats was undergone laparotomy and craniotomy while still under anesthesia at 6 hour, and tissue sample was obtained from the cerebrum. Group 4 was inhaled CO gas followed by intraperitoneally normal saline 30 min later. Group 5 was inhaled CO gas followed by 100 mg/kg magnesium sulphate intraperitoneally 30 min later. Group 4 and Group 5 rats was undergone laparotomy and craniotomy while still under anesthesia at 24 hour, and tissue sample was obtained from the cerebrum. Nitric oxide levels were no significantly different between all groups. Malonyldialdehyde levels increased in intoxication group (group 2) and decreased in treatment group (group 3). Activities of superoxide dismutase decreased in intoxication group (group 2) and increased in treatment group (group 3). Activities of catalase increased in intoxication group (group 2) and decreased in treatment group (group 3). Activities of glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) decreased in intoxication group (group 4) and increased in treatment group (group 5). CO poisoning caused significant damage, detected within the first 6 hours. Due to antioxidant enzymes, especially GSH-Px activity reaching the top level within 24th hours, significant oxidative damage was not observed. The protective effect against oxidative damage of magnesium sulfate has been identified within the first 6 hours.

  2. [Effects of red ginseng on the congestive heart failure and its mechanism].

    PubMed

    Ding, D Z; Shen, T K; Cui, Y Z

    1995-06-01

    Forty-five patients with class IV cardiac function were divided into three groups: group I (digoxin group), group II (Red Ginseng group) and group III (Red Ginseng plus digoxin group). Each group consisted of 15 cases. After treatment, the improvement of the hemodynamical and biochemical indexes of group II and group III were greater than those of group I, and group III was the most significant amongst all. The results suggested that Red Ginseng and digoxin had synergism for treatment of congestive heart failure, and Red Ginseng was an effective and safe adjuvant without any side effects.

  3. Fight tactics in wood ants: individuals in smaller groups fight harder but die faster

    PubMed Central

    Batchelor, Tim P.; Briffa, Mark

    2011-01-01

    When social animals engage in inter-group contests, the outcome is determined by group sizes and individual masses, which together determine group resource-holding potential (‘group RHP’). Individuals that perceive themselves as being in a group with high RHP may receive a motivational increase and increase their aggression levels. Alternatively, individuals in lower RHP groups may increase their aggression levels in an attempt to overcome the RHP deficit. We investigate how ‘group RHP’ influences agonistic tactics in red wood ants Formica rufa. Larger groups had higher total agonistic indices, but per capita agonistic indices were highest in the smallest groups, indicating that individuals in smaller groups fought harder. Agonistic indices were influenced by relative mean mass, focal group size, opponent group size and opponent group agonistic index. Focal group attrition rates decreased as focal group relative agonistic indices increased and there was a strong negative influence of relative mean mass. The highest focal attrition rates were received when opponent groups were numerically large and composed of large individuals. Thus, fight tactics in F. rufa seem to vary with both aspects of group RHP, group size and the individual attributes of group members, indicating that information on these are available to fighting ants. PMID:21389029

  4. [Effects of the renal blood flow at different levels by transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation combined general anesthesia induced controlled hypotension].

    PubMed

    Fang, Jian-Qiao; Zhang, Le-Le; Shao, Xiao-Mei

    2012-11-01

    To observe the intervention of transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation (TEAS) on the renal blood flow at different levels of mean arterial pressure (MAP) in controlled hypotension. Forty-two male beagle dogs were randomly divided into seven groups, i. e., the general anesthesia group, the 50% controlled group, the 40% controlled group, the 30% controlled group, the 50% experimental group, the 40% experimental group, and the 30% experimental group, 6 in each group. Beagles in the general anesthesia group were not treated with controlled hypotension, and the target MAP was achieved in those of the rest groups and maintained for 60 min. In the experimental groups, TEAS was applied to bilateral Hegu (LI4), Zusanli (ST36), Sanyinjiao (SP6), and Quchi (LI11) at 2/100 Hz with the stimulation strength of (4 +/- 1) mA starting from the stability of their physiological conditions to 60 min of maintaining the target MAP level. The changes of the renal blood flow were monitored at different time points using laser Doppler. From starting pressure control to the target MAP level, the renal blood flow was significantly lower in the 30% controlled group than in the general anesthesia group and the basic level of the same group (P < 0.05), while there was no obvious change in the 30% experimental group. In maintaining the blood pressure, the renal blood flow was significantly lower in the 50% controlled group, the 40% controlled group, the 30% controlled group, and the 30% experimental group than in the general anesthesia group (P < 0.05), while there was no obvious change in the 50% experimental group or the 40% experimental group. By the end of blood pressure recovery, the renal blood flow restored to the basic level in the 50% controlled group, the 50% experimental group, and the 40% experimental group (P > 0.05), while it was not restored to the basic level in the 40% controlled group, the 30% controlled group, and the 30% experimental group (P < 0.05). TEAS combined general anesthesia in controlled hypotension could effectively improve the renal blood flow, thus protecting the kidney.

  5. [Effects of Gukang on bone-source alkaline phosphatase (BALP) and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) in serum of spaying rats].

    PubMed

    Chen, Yi-fan; Huang, Hong-xing; Li, Ying

    2009-02-01

    To investigate the effects of Gukang on bone-source alkaline phosphatase (BALP) and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) in serum of spaying rats and the mechanism of curative effect of Gukang on osteoporosis. Sixty-eight 6-month-old SD rats were chosen and randomly divided into blank control group (22 rats with sham operation) and operation group (46 rats with spaying operation). Three months after operation, 10 rats were randomly chosen from each group and tested with bone mineral density in order to determine models of osteoporosis made. After modeling, operation group was divided into 3 sub-groups: operation model group, estrogen group and Gukang group, 12 rars in each group. Twelve rats remained in blank control group. Every group were treated through intragastric administration therapy (volume 10 ml/kg). Blank control group and operation model group were irrigated with distilled water,estrogen group with estrogen and Gukang group with Gukang. Three months after treatment, serum of all groups were collected and tested for E2, BALP and IGF-1 with ELISA. The concentration of serum E2, BALP in estrogen group and Gukang group were higher than operation model group, there were significant difference (P < 0.05), but no significant difference in serum E2 between estrogen group and Gukang group (P > 0.05). The concentration of serum IGF-1 in Gukang group was higher than operation model group and blank control group, there were significant difference (P < 0.05). Gukang can increase the level of E2, BALP and IGF-1 in serum of spaying rats. Thus, it can indirectly promote reproduction of osteoblasts, inhibit activity of osteoclasts and promote bone formation.

  6. Effect of zinc supplementation on lipid peroxidation and lactate levels in rats with diabetes induced by streptozotocin and subjected to acute swimming exercise.

    PubMed

    Bicer, M; Gunay, M; Baltaci, A K; Uney, K; Mogulkoc, R; Akil, M

    2012-01-01

    The present study aims to explore the effect of zinc supplementation on lipid peroxidation and lactate levels in rats having diabetes induced by streptozotocin and subjected to acute swimming exercise. A total of 80 adult male rats of Sprague-Dawley type were equally allocated to 8 groups: Group 1, general control. Group 2, zinc-supplemented group. Group 3, zinc-supplemented, diabetic group. Group 4, swimming control group. Group 5, zinc-supplemented swimming group. Group 6, zinc-supplemented diabetic swimming group. Group 7, diabetic swimming group. Group 8, diabetic group. At the end of the 4-week study, blood samples were collected to determine MDA, GSH, GPx, SOD, lactate and zinc levels. The highest MDA values were found in group 7 and 8 (p<0.001). GSH values in groups 5 and 6 were higher (p<0.001). The highest GPx values were established in groups 2, 5 and 6 (p<0.001). SOD values were the highest in groups 5 and 6 (p<0.001) and lowest in groups 2, 3 and 8 (p<0.001). The highest plasma lactate levels were found in group 7 (p<0.001). The highest zinc levels were obtained in groups 1, 2 and 5 (p<0.001), and the lowest zinc levels were found in groups 7 and 8 (p<0.001). Results of the study reveal that zinc supplementation prevents the increase of free radical formation, suppression of antioxidant activity and muscle exhaustion, all of which result from diabetes and acute exercise. Zinc supplementation may contribute to health performance in diabetes and acute exercise (Tab. 2, Fig. 1 Ref. 47). Full Text in PDF www.elis.sk.

  7. When high achievers and low achievers work in the same group: the roles of group heterogeneity and processes in project-based learning.

    PubMed

    Cheng, Rebecca Wing-yi; Lam, Shui-fong; Chan, Joanne Chung-yan

    2008-06-01

    There has been an ongoing debate about the inconsistent effects of heterogeneous ability grouping on students in small group work such as project-based learning. The present research investigated the roles of group heterogeneity and processes in project-based learning. At the student level, we examined the interaction effect between students' within-group achievement and group processes on their self- and collective efficacy. At the group level, we examined how group heterogeneity was associated with the average self- and collective efficacy reported by the groups. The participants were 1,921 Hong Kong secondary students in 367 project-based learning groups. Student achievement was determined by school examination marks. Group processes, self-efficacy and collective efficacy were measured by a student-report questionnaire. Hierarchical linear modelling was used to analyse the nested data. When individual students in each group were taken as the unit of analysis, results indicated an interaction effect of group processes and students' within-group achievement on the discrepancy between collective- and self-efficacy. When compared with low achievers, high achievers reported lower collective efficacy than self-efficacy when group processes were of low quality. However, both low and high achievers reported higher collective efficacy than self-efficacy when group processes were of high quality. With 367 groups taken as the unit of analysis, the results showed that group heterogeneity, group gender composition and group size were not related to the discrepancy between collective- and self-efficacy reported by the students. Group heterogeneity was not a determinant factor in students' learning efficacy. Instead, the quality of group processes played a pivotal role because both high and low achievers were able to benefit when group processes were of high quality.

  8. The Effects of Saccharomyces boulardii on Bacterial Translocation in Rats with Obstructive Jaundice

    PubMed Central

    Geyik, Mehmet Faruk; Aldemir, Mustafa; Hosoglu, Salih; Ayaz, Celal; Satilmis, Selda; Buyukbayram, Huseyin; Kokoglu, Omer Faruk

    2006-01-01

    INTRODUCTION The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of Saccharomyces boulardii treatment on preventing bacterial translocation in an obstructive jaundice animal model. MATERIALS AND METHODS Sixty adult rats were divided into five groups: group 1 – the sham-operated group; group 2 – the common bile duct ligation group; group 3 – the S. boulardii group; group 4 – the ampicillin-sulbaktam group; and group 5 – the S. boulardii plus ampicillin-sulbaktam group. The saline, antibiotics and S. boulardii were given, respectively, for a 7-day period as a single dose per day via temporary orogastric intubation. Seven days following the obstructive jaundice, the animal had laparatomy under sterile conditions. Segments of ileum were removed for histopathological examination. Blood, liver, spleen and mesenteric lymph nodes were taken for microbiological culture. RESULTS Bacterial translocation rates were 0% in the sham-operated group, 83% in group 2, 42% in group 3, 42% in group 4 and 33% in group 5. Bacterial translocation significantly increased in group 2 compared to groups 3, 4 and 5 (P = 0.001). The bacterial counts (CFU/g) of group 2 were significantly higher than those of groups 3, 4 and 5 (P = 0.001). Histopathological examination of ileum specimens revealed a significant decrease in the heights of villi in groups 2–5 compared to the sham-operated group (P = 0.001). The mean villus height in groups 3 and 5 was significantly higher than that of group 4 (P = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS S. boulardii was found to be effective in the successful control of translocation and improvement of intestinal barrier function. PMID:16551414

  9. Application of adult attachment theory to group member transference and the group therapy process.

    PubMed

    Markin, Rayna D; Marmarosh, Cheri

    2010-03-01

    Although clinical researchers have applied attachment theory to client conceptualization and treatment in individual therapy, few researchers have applied this theory to group therapy. The purpose of this article is to begin to apply theory and research on adult dyadic and group attachment styles to our understanding of group dynamics and processes in adult therapy groups. In particular, we set forth theoretical propositions on how group members' attachment styles affect relationships within the group. Specifically, this article offers some predictions on how identifying group member dyadic and group attachment styles could help leaders predict member transference within the therapy group. Implications of group member attachment for the selection and composition of a group and the different group stages are discussed. Recommendations for group clinicians and researchers are offered. PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved

  10. Human cooperation by lethal group competition.

    PubMed

    Egas, Martijn; Kats, Ralph; van der Sar, Xander; Reuben, Ernesto; Sabelis, Maurice W

    2013-01-01

    Why humans are prone to cooperate puzzles biologists, psychologists and economists alike. Between-group conflict has been hypothesized to drive within-group cooperation. However, such conflicts did not have lasting effects in laboratory experiments, because they were about luxury goods, not needed for survival ("looting"). Here, we find within-group cooperation to last when between-group conflict is implemented as "all-out war" (eliminating the weakest groups). Human subjects invested in helping group members to avoid having the lowest collective pay-off, whereas they failed to cooperate in control treatments with random group elimination or with no subdivision in groups. When the game was repeated, experience was found to promote helping. Thus, not within-group interactions alone, not random group elimination, but pay-off-dependent group elimination was found to drive within-group cooperation in our experiment. We suggest that some forms of human cooperation are maintained by multi-level selection: reciprocity within groups and lethal competition among groups acting together.

  11. Group heterogeneity increases the risks of large group size: a longitudinal study of productivity in research groups.

    PubMed

    Cummings, Jonathon N; Kiesler, Sara; Bosagh Zadeh, Reza; Balakrishnan, Aruna D

    2013-06-01

    Heterogeneous groups are valuable, but differences among members can weaken group identification. Weak group identification may be especially problematic in larger groups, which, in contrast with smaller groups, require more attention to motivating members and coordinating their tasks. We hypothesized that as groups increase in size, productivity would decrease with greater heterogeneity. We studied the longitudinal productivity of 549 research groups varying in disciplinary heterogeneity, institutional heterogeneity, and size. We examined their publication and citation productivity before their projects started and 5 to 9 years later. Larger groups were more productive than smaller groups, but their marginal productivity declined as their heterogeneity increased, either because their members belonged to more disciplines or to more institutions. These results provide evidence that group heterogeneity moderates the effects of group size, and they suggest that desirable diversity in groups may be better leveraged in smaller, more cohesive units.

  12. Team Attributes, Processes, and Values: A Pedagogical Framework

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Keyton, Joann; Beck, Stephenson J.

    2008-01-01

    This article proposes a pedagogical framework to help students analyze their group and team interactions. Intersecting five fundamental group attributes (group size, group goal, group member interdependence, group structure, and group identity) with three overarching group processes (leadership, decision making, and conflict management) creates an…

  13. When are emotions related to group-based appraisals? A comparison between group-based emotions and general group emotions.

    PubMed

    Kuppens, Toon; Yzerbyt, Vincent Y

    2014-12-01

    In the literature on emotions in intergroup relations, it is not always clear how exactly emotions are group-related. Here, we distinguish between emotions that involve appraisals of immediate group concerns (i.e., group-based emotions) and emotions that do not. Recently, general group emotions, measured by asking people how they feel "as a group member" but without specifying an object for these emotions, have been conceptualized as reflecting appraisals of group concerns. In contrast, we propose that general group emotions are best seen as emotions about belonging to a group. In two studies, general group emotions were closely related to emotions that are explicitly measured as belonging emotions. Two further studies showed that general group emotions were not related to appraisals of immediate group concerns, whereas group-based emotions were. We argue for more specificity regarding the group-level aspects of emotion that are tapped by emotion measures. © 2014 by the Society for Personality and Social Psychology, Inc.

  14. Opposites Detract: Middle School Peer Group Antipathies

    PubMed Central

    Laursen, Brett; Bukowski, William M.; Nurmi, Jari-Eri; Marion, Donna; Salmela-Aro, Katariina; Kiuru, Noona

    2010-01-01

    This study examines variability in patterns of peer group antipathy. Same-grade adolescent peer groups were identified from sociometric nominations of preferred affiliates in a community sample of 600 Finnish 9th grade middle school students (M = 15.0 years-old). Hierarchical linear modeling determined characteristics of youth in actor groups (nominators) that predicted antipathy for youth in target groups (nominatees) on the basis of target group characteristics. Most antipathies were based on dissimilarity between groups representing the mainstream culture and groups opposed to it. The higher a peer group's school burnout, the more its members disliked students in peer groups with higher school grades and students in peer groups with higher sports participation. Conversely, the higher a peer group's school grades, the more its members disliked students in peer groups with higher school burnout. Students in peer groups with less problem behavior disliked students in peer groups with more problem behavior. There was some evidence of rivalry within the mainstream culture: The higher a group's school grades, the more its members disliked those in groups whose members participated in sports. PMID:20378125

  15. Fear acquisition and liking of out-group and in-group members: Learning bias or attention?

    PubMed

    Koenig, Stephan; Nauroth, Peter; Lucke, Sara; Lachnit, Harald; Gollwitzer, Mario; Uengoer, Metin

    2017-10-01

    The present study explores the notion of an out-group fear learning bias that is characterized by facilitated fear acquisition toward harm-doing out-group members. Participants were conditioned with two in-group and two out-group faces as conditioned stimuli. During acquisition, one in-group and one out-group face was paired with an aversive shock whereas the other in-group and out-group face was presented without shock. Psychophysiological measures of fear conditioning (skin conductance and pupil size) and explicit and implicit liking exhibited increased differential responding to out-group faces compared to in-group faces. However, the results did not clearly indicate that harm-doing out-group members were more readily associated with fear than harm-doing in-group members. In contrast, the out-group face not paired with shock decreased conditioned fear and disliking at least to the same extent that the shock-associated out-group face increased these measures. Based on these results, we suggest an account of the out-group fear learning bias that relates to an attentional bias to process in-group information. Copyright © 2017 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  16. Morphotaxonomic revision of species-groups of Simulium (Simulium) (Diptera: Simuliidae) in the Oriental Region.

    PubMed

    Takaoka, Hiroyuki

    2017-11-24

    Species of eight species-groups (seven named and one unnamed) of Simulium (Simulium) Latreille are revised chiefly based on the adult female and male genitalia. Four species-groups are each divided into more than two groups. Thus, the S. christophersi species-group is divided into two (S. christophersi and S. nebulicola species-groups), the S. griseifrons species-group into six (S. griseifrons, S. grossifilum, S. chungi, S. crocinum, S. indicum and S. yadongense species-groups), the S. malyschevi species-group into two (S. malyschevi and S. pavlovskii species-groups), and the S. melanopus species-group into three (S. melanopus, S. dumogaense and S. iridescens species-groups). The S. crassifilum species-group is merged with the S. variegatum species-group. Simulium fulvipes (Ono) of the former S. malyschevi species-group and S. dentastylum Yang, Chen & Luo of Simulium s. str. species unplaced to species-group are removed from the subgenus Simulium because their male styles are subequal in length to the coxites. A revised classification of species of the 15 species-groups including eight new species-groups of Simulium (Simulium) is presented. Keys to 20 species-groups of Simulium (Simulium) in the Oriental Region are provided for adult females and males.

  17. [Effects of granisetron/lidocaine combination on propofol injection-induced pain: a double-blind randomized clinical trial].

    PubMed

    Ma, Yu-shan; Lin, Xue-mei; Zhou, Jun

    2009-05-01

    To investigate the alleviation effect of vein pretreatment and granisetron/lidocaine combination on propofol injection-induced pain. Two hundreds patients scheduled for gynaecological laparoscopic operations were randomly divided into four groups: control group (group I), lidocaine group (group II), granisetron group (group III) and granisetron/lidocaine combination group (group IV), with 50 patients in each group. The patients in the above four groups received placebo (saline), lidocaine 20 mg, granisetron 2 mg and granisetron 2 mg plus lidocaine intravenously respectively. The patients were injected with one-forth of scheduled propofol via a dorsal hand vein after one minute of venous occlusion. The pain during the injection of propofol was evaluated. Pain occurred in 84% of patients in the control group, 46% in the lidocaine group, 52% in the granisetron group and 24% in the granisetron/lidocaine combination group. There was a significant reduction in pain incidence in the three experimental groups compared with the control group (P<0.05). The incidence of pain, nausea, vomiting and shivering was less in the granisetron/lidocaine combination group than in the control group (P<0.05). Pretreatment with granisetron/lidocaine may be effective not only in attenuating pains during i.v. injection of propofol, but also in preventing postoperative nausea, vomiting and shivering.

  18. [The protective effect of XD in ConA-induced liver injury].

    PubMed

    Liu, Xiao-Bin; Wang, Jing; Zhang, Qian-Qian; Liu, Tao; Dang, Tong-Mei; Cao, Yi-Ming

    2010-12-01

    To explore the protective effect and its mechanism of Modified Xiaochaihu decoction(MXD) in the liver injury of mice. METHORDS: Using Reitman methord to examine serum ALT and ATS; Using sandwich enzyme immunoassay ABC-ELISA to examine serum TNF-α and IFN-γ. Serum ALT and ATS of MXD large dose group and Xiaochaihu decoction (XD )group were lower than that of animal models group, there was significant difference among groups (P<0.05). There were not significant difference (P>0.05) between serum ALT and ATS of MXD small dose group and that of animal models group; MXD large dose group, XD group and Biphenyldimethylesterate (DDB) group are similar, no difference (P>0.05). Serum TNF-α and IFN-γ of MXD large dose group and XD group were significant lower than that of animal models group, there was significant difference among groups (P<0.05). Serum TNF-α and IFN-γ of XD group ware higher than that of MXD large dose group, there was significant difference among groups (P<0.05). MXD large dose group, XD group and DDB group were similar, no difference. Xiaocaihu decoction possesses the effect of pro2 tection of hepatic impairment and the protective mechanism might be associated with the inhibition of apoptosis and immunomodulation.

  19. Within-group behavioural consequences of between-group conflict: a prospective review.

    PubMed

    Radford, Andrew N; Majolo, Bonaventura; Aureli, Filippo

    2016-11-30

    Conflict is rife in group-living species and exerts a powerful selective force. Group members face a variety of threats from extra-group conspecifics, from individuals looking for reproductive opportunities to rival groups seeking resources. Theory predicts that such between-group conflict should influence within-group behaviour. However, compared with the extensive literature on the consequences of within-group conflict, relatively little research has considered the behavioural impacts of between-group conflict. We give an overview of why between-group conflict is expected to influence subsequent behaviour among group members. We then use what is known about the consequences of within-group conflict to generate testable predictions about how between-group conflict might affect within-group behaviour in the aftermath. We consider the types of behaviour that could change and how the role of different group members in the conflict can exert an influence. Furthermore, we discuss how conflict characteristics and outcome, group size, social structure and within-group relationship quality might modulate post-conflict behavioural changes. Finally, we propose the need for consistent definitions, a broader range of examined behaviours and taxa, individual-focused data collection, complementary observational and experimental approaches, and a consideration of lasting effects if we are to understand fully the significant influence of between-group conflict on social behaviour. © 2016 The Author(s).

  20. Within-group behavioural consequences of between-group conflict: a prospective review

    PubMed Central

    Aureli, Filippo

    2016-01-01

    Conflict is rife in group-living species and exerts a powerful selective force. Group members face a variety of threats from extra-group conspecifics, from individuals looking for reproductive opportunities to rival groups seeking resources. Theory predicts that such between-group conflict should influence within-group behaviour. However, compared with the extensive literature on the consequences of within-group conflict, relatively little research has considered the behavioural impacts of between-group conflict. We give an overview of why between-group conflict is expected to influence subsequent behaviour among group members. We then use what is known about the consequences of within-group conflict to generate testable predictions about how between-group conflict might affect within-group behaviour in the aftermath. We consider the types of behaviour that could change and how the role of different group members in the conflict can exert an influence. Furthermore, we discuss how conflict characteristics and outcome, group size, social structure and within-group relationship quality might modulate post-conflict behavioural changes. Finally, we propose the need for consistent definitions, a broader range of examined behaviours and taxa, individual-focused data collection, complementary observational and experimental approaches, and a consideration of lasting effects if we are to understand fully the significant influence of between-group conflict on social behaviour. PMID:27903869

  1. Dietary Blueberry and Bifidobacteria Attenuate Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Rats by Affecting SIRT1-Mediated Signaling Pathway

    PubMed Central

    Ren, Tingting; Huang, Chao; Cheng, Mingliang

    2014-01-01

    NAFLD model rats were established and divided into NAFLD model (MG group), SIRT1 RNAi (SI group), blueberry juice (BJ group), blueberry juice + bifidobacteria (BJB group), blueberry juice + SIRT1 RNAi (BJSI group), and blueberry juice + bifidobacteria + SIRT1 RNAi groups (BJBSI group). A group with normal rats was a control group (CG). BJB group ameliorated NAFLD, which was better than BJ group (P < 0.05). The lipid accumulation was lower in CG, BJ, and BJB groups than that in MG, SI, BJSI, and BJBSI groups (P < 0.05). The levels of SIRT1 and PPAR-α were higher in CG, BJ, and BJB groups than those in MG, SI, BJSI, and BJBSI groups (P < 0.05). The levels of SREBP-1c were lower in CG, BJ, and BJB groups than those in MG, SI, BJSI, and BJBSI groups (P < 0.05). The biochemical indexes SOD, GSH, and HDL-c were improved from CG to BJB group (P < 0.05). Inversely, the levels of AST and ALT, TG, TC, LDL-c, and MDA were decreased from CG to BJB group (P < 0.05). These changes enhance antioxidative capability and biochemical index of rats. Blueberry juice and bifidobacteria improve NAFLD by activating SIRTI-mediating signaling pathway. PMID:25544867

  2. Three new species of Macrelmis Motschulsky (Coleoptera: Elmidae: Elminae) from Southeastern Brazil with new definition of species groups to the genus.

    PubMed

    Dos Passos, Maria Inês Silva; De Miranda, Gustavo Silva; Nessimian, Jorge Luiz

    2015-12-16

    Three new species of Macrelmis Motschulsky, 1859 are described and illustrated based on adult males from Rio de Janeiro, Minas Gerais and São Paulo states (southeastern Brazil). A new species groups definition is proposed for the genus, with a redefinition of the former six (aristeae sp. group, celsa sp. group, isus sp. group, granigera sp. group, milleri sp. group and striata sp. group) and designation of four new groups (alea new sp. group, amazonica new sp. group, grandis new sp. group and jureceki new sp. group). The male genitalia of M. clypeata is illustrated for the first time and distributional maps for all species of the genus are provided.

  3. [Mechanism of protective effects of tumor necrosis factor receptor associated protein 1 on hypoxic cardiomyocytes of rats].

    PubMed

    Xiang, F; Zhang, D X; Ma, S Y; Huang, Y S

    2016-12-20

    Objective: To investigate the mechanism of protective effects of tumor necrosis factor receptor associated protein 1 (TRAP1) on hypoxic cardiomyocytes of rats. Methods: Primary cultured cardiomyocytes were obtained from neonatal Sprague-Dawley rats (aged 1 to 3 days) and then used in the following experiments. (1) Cells were divided into group TRAP1 and control group according to the random number table (the same grouping method below), and then the total protein of cells was extracted. Total protein of cells in group TRAP1 was added with mouse anti-rat TRAP1 monoclonal antibody, while that in control group was added with the same type of IgG from mouse. Co-immunoprecipitation and protein mass spectrography analysis were used to determine the possible proteins interacted with TRAP1. (2) Cells were divided into normoxia blank control group (NBC), normoxia+ TRAP1 interference control group (NTIC), normoxia+ TRAP1 interference group (NTI), normoxia+ TRAP1 over-expression control group (NTOC), and normoxia+ TRAP1 over-expression group (NTO), with 1 well in each group. Cells in group NBC were routinely cultured, while cells in the latter four groups were respectively added with TRAP1 RNA interference empty virus vector, TRAP1 RNA interference adenovirus vector, TRAP1 over-expression empty virus vector, and TRAP1 over-expression adenovirus vector. Another batch of cells were divided into group NBC, hypoxic blank control group (HBC), hypoxic+ TRAP1 interference control group (HTIC), hypoxic+ TRAP1 interference group (HTI), hypoxic+ TRAP1 over-expression control group (HTOC), and hypoxic+ TRAP1 over-expression group (HTO), with 1 well in each group. Cells in hypoxic groups were under hypoxic condition for 6 hours after being treated as those in the corresponding normoxia groups, respectively. The mRNA expression of cytochrome c oxidase subunit Ⅱ (COXⅡ) of cells in each group was detected by real time fluorescent quantitive reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. Experiments were repeated for three times. (3) Cells were divided into group NBC, group HBC, group HTOC, group HTO, hypoxic+ TRAP1 over-expression+ COXⅡinterference control group (HTOCIC), and hypoxic+ TRAP1 over-expression+ COXⅡinterference group (HTOCI), with 3 wells in each group. Cells in the previous 4 groups were treated as those in experiment (2). Cells in group HTOCIC and HTOCI were respectively transfected with COXⅡ RNA interference empty virus vector and COXⅡ RNA interference adenovirus vector, and then both added with TRAP1 over-expression adenovirus vector. The proliferation activity of cells was determined by cell counting kit 8 and microplate reader, and the ratio of death cells was measured by propidium lodide and Hoechst 33342 staining. Another batch of cells were divided into group NBC, group HBC, group HTIC, group HTI, hypoxic+ TRAP1 interference+ COXⅡover-expression control group (HTICOC), and hypoxic+ TRAP1 interference+ COXⅡ over-expression group (HTICO), with 3 wells in each group. Cells in the previous 4 groups were treated as those in experiment (2). Cells in group HTICOC and HTICO were both transfected with TRAP1 RNA interference adenovirus vector, and then respectively added with COXⅡ over-expression empty virus vector and COXⅡ over-expression adenovirus vector. The proliferation activity of cells and the ratio of death cells were detected as before. Experiments were repeated for three times. Data were processed with one-way analysis of variance and LSD test. Results: (1) The expression of TRAP1 was found in cells of group TRAP1, while that was not found in cells of control group. The possible proteins interacted with TRAP1 were keratin, COXⅡ, and an unknown protein with predicted molecular weight 13×10 3 . (2) Compared with that in group NBC, the mRNA expression of COXⅡof cells had no significant change in group NTIC and group NTOC (with P values above 0.05), but significantly decreased in group NTI ( P <0.01), and significantly increased in group NTO ( P <0.01). Compared with that in group NBC, the mRNA expression of COXⅡof cells in group HBC was significantly decreased ( P <0.01). Compared with that in group HBC, the mRNA expression of COXⅡof cells had no significant change in group HTIC and group HTOC (with P values above 0.05), but significantly decreased in group HTI ( P <0.01), and significantly increased in group HTO ( P <0.01). (3) The proliferation activity of cells in group NBC, group HBC, group HTOC, group HTO, group HTOCIC, and group HTOCI was respectively 0.498±0.022, 0.303±0.018, 0.313±0.032, 0.456±0.031, 0.448±0.034, and 0.335±0.026, and the ratios of death cells in above groups were respectively (4.7±1.5)%, (24.7±3.1)%, (26.0±2.7)%, (13.3±2.5)%, (12.7±2.1)%, and (21.0±1.7)%. Compared with those in group NBC, the proliferation activity of cells in HBC was decreased, while the ratio of death cells was increased (with P values below 0.01). Compared with those in group HBC, the proliferation activity of cells and the ratio of death cells in group HTOC had no significant change (with P values above 0.05), while the proliferation activity of cells was increased and the ratio of death cells was decreased in group HTO (with P values below 0.01). Compared with those in group HTO, the proliferation activity of cells and the ratio of death cells in group HTOCIC had no significant change (with P values above 0.05), while the proliferation activity of cells was decreased and the ratio of death cells was increased in group HTOCI (with P values below 0.01). (4) The proliferation activity of cells in group NBC, group HBC, group HTIC, group HTI, group HTICOC, and group HTICO was respectively 0.444±0.025, 0.275±0.016, 0.283±0.021, 0.150±0.009, 0.135±0.011, and 0.237±0.017, and the ratios of death cells in above groups were respectively (3.7±0.6)%, (21.0±2.7)%, (20.3±3.1)%, (31.7±2.5)%, (33.3±3.2)%, and (19.3±1.5)%. Compared with those in group HBC, the proliferation activity of cells and the ratio of death cells in group HTIC had no significant change (with P values above 0.05). Compared with those in group HBC and group HTIC, the proliferation activity of cells was decreased and the ratio of death cells was significantly increased in group HTI (with P values below 0.01). Compared with those in group HTI, the proliferation activity of cells and the ratio of death cells in group HTICOC had no significant change (with P values above 0.05), while the proliferation activity of cells was increased and the ratio of death cells was significantly decreased in group HTICO (with P values below 0.01). Conclusions: TRAP1 can up-regulate the expression of COXⅡ mRNA, and COXⅡ is one of the downstream effector molecules that TRAP1 mediates its protective effects on hypoxic cardiomyocytes.

  4. 40 CFR 798.2650 - Oral toxicity.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-07-01

    ...) Control groups. A concurrent control group is required. This group shall be an untreated or sham-treated control group or, if a vehicle is used in administering the test substance, a vehicle control group. If... vehicle control groups are required. (3) Satellite group. (Rodent) A satellite group of 20 animals (10...

  5. 40 CFR 798.2650 - Oral toxicity.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ...) Control groups. A concurrent control group is required. This group shall be an untreated or sham-treated control group or, if a vehicle is used in administering the test substance, a vehicle control group. If... vehicle control groups are required. (3) Satellite group. (Rodent) A satellite group of 20 animals (10...

  6. 40 CFR 798.2650 - Oral toxicity.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-07-01

    ...) Control groups. A concurrent control group is required. This group shall be an untreated or sham-treated control group or, if a vehicle is used in administering the test substance, a vehicle control group. If... vehicle control groups are required. (3) Satellite group. (Rodent) A satellite group of 20 animals (10...

  7. 40 CFR 798.2650 - Oral toxicity.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-07-01

    ...) Control groups. A concurrent control group is required. This group shall be an untreated or sham-treated control group or, if a vehicle is used in administering the test substance, a vehicle control group. If... vehicle control groups are required. (3) Satellite group. (Rodent) A satellite group of 20 animals (10...

  8. 40 CFR 798.2650 - Oral toxicity.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ...) Control groups. A concurrent control group is required. This group shall be an untreated or sham-treated control group or, if a vehicle is used in administering the test substance, a vehicle control group. If... vehicle control groups are required. (3) Satellite group. (Rodent) A satellite group of 20 animals (10...

  9. Small Group Cooperative Curriculum and Experimental Evaluation; A Study of Cooperation Training. Final Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Bloom, Joan R.; And Others

    This report describes a project to test the effectiveness of a small-group curriculum designed to teach cooperative group work. The sample of 53 groups of boys and 47 groups of girls was assigned to one of three conditions: (a) established groups, (b) ad hoc groups, and (c) control condition groups. Groups who had training were predicted to choose…

  10. [Total flavones derived from Lagotis brevituba maxim reduce the levels of inflammatory cytokines in cerebral cortex and hippocampus of Alzheimer's disease mice].

    PubMed

    Yang, Bailing; Hou, Qian; Hu, Feng; Zhang, Fan

    2016-07-01

    Objective To investigate the mechanism behind the treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD) with total flavones derived from Lagotis brevituba maxim (TF-LBM). Methods Fifty SAMP8 mice (aged 8 months) were randomly divided into 5 groups, (150, 300, 600) mg/kg TF-LBM groups, 0.65 g/kg donepezil HCl group and AD model group; 10 SAMR1 mice (aged 8 months) were used as a control group of normal aging. The AD model group and the normal aging control group were given the same volume of distilled water as TF-LBM groups. Eight weeks after intragastric administration, Morris water maze experiment was conducted to calculate the latency of place navigation. After the behavioral experiment, the brain cortical tissue and hippocampus (CA1 region) of the mice from various groups were taken to observe the morphological changes of the cortical tissue and hippocampus and test IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α content. Results Compared with the model group, the escape latency of the normal aging group, the high-dose TF-LBM group and the donepezil HCl group were evidently shortened; compared with the normal aging group, IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-αof the model group increased significantly; compared with the model group, IL-1β content of the low-dose TF-LBM group had no obvious difference, while IL-1β content of the median-dose and high-dose TF-LBM groups and the donepezil HCl group decreased significantly; IL-6 content decreased in all TF-LBM groups and the donepezil HCl group; TNF-α level in the low-dose and median-dose TF-LBM groups had no evident difference, while it was reduced significantly in the high-dose TF-LBM group and the donepezil HCl group. Compared with the normal aging group, IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α content of the model group increased significantly; compared with the model group, IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α content of all TF-LBM groups and the donepezil HCl group decreased. Conclusion TF-LBM can improve the behavior change of SAMP8 mice with AD. TF-LBM can reduce the content of IL-6, IL-1β and TNF-α in cerebral cortex and hippocampus CA1.

  11. The standardized live patient and mechanical patient models--their roles in trauma teaching.

    PubMed

    Ali, Jameel; Al Ahmadi, Khalid; Williams, Jack Ivan; Cherry, Robert Allen

    2009-01-01

    We have previously demonstrated improved medical student performance using standardized live patient models in the Trauma Evaluation and Management (TEAM) program. The trauma manikin has also been offered as an option for teaching trauma skills in this program. In this study, we compare performance using both models. Final year medical students were randomly assigned to three groups: group I (n = 22) with neither model, group II (n = 24) with patient model, and group III (n = 24) with mechanical model using the same clinical scenario. All students completed pre-TEAM and post-TEAM multiple choice question (MCQ) exams and an evaluation questionnaire scoring five items on a scale of 1 to 5 with 5 being the highest. The items were objectives were met, knowledge improved, skills improved, overall satisfaction, and course should be mandatory. Students (groups II and III) then switched models, rating preferences in six categories: more challenging, more interesting, more dynamic, more enjoyable learning, more realistic, and overall better model. Scores were analyzed by ANOVA with p < 0.05 being considered statistically significant. All groups had similar scores (means % +/- SD)in the pretest (group I - 50.8 +/- 7.4, group II - 51.3 +/- 6.4, group III - 51.1 +/- 6.6). All groups improved their post-test scores but groups II and III scored higher than group I with no difference in scores between groups II and III (group I - 77.5 +/- 3.8, group II - 84.8 +/- 3.6, group III - 86.3 +/- 3.2). The percent of students scoring 5 in the questionnaire are as follows: objectives met - 100% for all groups; knowledge improved: group I - 91%, group II - 96%, group III - 92%; skills improved: group I - 9%, group II - 83%, group III - 96%; overall satisfaction: group I - 91%, group II - 92%, group III - 92%; should be mandatory: group I - 32%, group II - 96%, group III - 100%. Student preferences (48 students) are as follows: the mechanical model was more challenging (44 of 48); more interesting (40 of 48); more dynamic (46 of 48); more enjoyable (48 of 48); more realistic (32/48), and better overall model (42 of 48). Using the TEAM program, we have demonstrated that improvement in knowledge and skills are equally enhanced by using mechanical or patient models in trauma teaching. However, students overwhelmingly preferred the mechanical model.

  12. The effect of tourniquet usage on cement penetration in total knee arthroplasty: A prospective randomized study of 3 methods.

    PubMed

    Ozkunt, Okan; Sariyilmaz, Kerim; Gemalmaz, Halil Can; Dikici, Fatih

    2018-01-01

    It is a randomized study to compare cement penetration on x-rays after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) among 3 different ways to use tourniquets; application during the surgery, application only with implantation prosthesis and with no tourniquet use. A total 69 knees of 59 patients were included in the study in a quasirandom manner. Each patient had physical exams and standard radiographic evaluations at 6 weeks after the TKA procedure. Outcome evaluations included visual analog scale (VAS) scores, Knee Society Scores (KSS), blood transfusion, and drainage status after surgery for all groups. For radiographic review, the tibial plateau was divided into zones in the anterior-posterior and lateral views, according to the Knee Society Scoring System. The average age of the patients who were eligible for the study was 65.05 (range 46-81) years. All 59 patients included in the study were female patients. Group 1 consisted of 24 patients who had TKA with use of a tourniquet during the entire operation. Group 2 consisted of 20 patients who had TKA with use of tourniquet only at the time of cementing and group 3 consisted of 25 patients with no use tourniquet. There is no significant difference in early cement penetration among the groups (group 1 2.50 mm, group 2 2.28 mm, group 3 2.27 mm; group 1 vs 2 P = .083, group 1 vs 3 P = .091, group 2 vs 3 P = .073). There is no significant difference for postoperative drainage among the 3 groups (group 1 245 mL, group 2 258.76 mL, group 3 175.88 mL; group 1 vs 2 P = .081, group 1 vs 3 P = .072, group 2 vs 3 P = .054). There was no need to transfuse more than 1 unit in any patient. The VAS score was significantly higher (group 1 3.58, group 2 1.55, group 3 1.52; group 1 vs 2 P = .022, group 1 vs 3 P = .018, group 2 vs 3 P = .062) and KSS was significantly lower in the tourniquet group (group 1 63, group 2 79, group 3 82; group 1 vs 2 P = .017, group 1 vs 3 P = .02, group 2 vs 3 P = .082). We do not suggest long-duration tourniquet use, which can lead higher pain scores and reduce functional recovery after total knee arthroplasty.

  13. Individualized nutrition intervention is of major benefit to colorectal cancer patients: long-term follow-up of a randomized controlled trial of nutritional therapy.

    PubMed

    Ravasco, Paula; Monteiro-Grillo, Isabel; Camilo, Maria

    2012-12-01

    In our published randomized trial in colorectal cancer, group 1 (n = 37) received individualized nutritional counseling and education about regular foods, group 2 (n = 37) received dietary supplements and consumed their usual diet of regular foods, and group 3 (n = 37) consumed their usual diet of regular foods. Neither group 2 nor group 3 received individualized counseling. Early nutritional counseling during radiotherapy was highly effective at reducing acute radiotherapy toxicity and improving nutritional intake/status and quality of life (QoL). Efficacy persisted for 3 mo after the intervention. The objective was to perform long-term follow-up in survivors of that clinical trial to specifically evaluate survival, late toxicity, QoL, and nutritional variables. Medical data were collected from patients' records, and prescheduled interviews were conducted by dietitians for individualized evaluations. Analyses and comparisons between groups (adjusted for stage) were performed after a median follow-up of 6.5 (range: 4.9-8.1) y. Patients complied with the Radiotherapy Department's follow-up protocol. Nutritional deterioration was higher (P < 0.001) in group 3 (n = 26) and group 2 (n = 29) than in group 1 (n = 34). Adequate nutritional status was maintained in 91% of group 1 patients but not in any of the group 3 patients (P < 0.002). Intakes in group 1 were similar to reference values, and the patients adhered to the prescribed recommendations. Intakes in groups 2 and 3 were lower than recommended intakes: group 3 ≃ group 2 < group 1 (P = 0.001). Median survival in group 3 was 4.9 y (30% died), in group 2 was 6.5 y (22% died), and in group 1 was 7.3 y (only 8% died): group 3 > group 2 > group 1 (P < 0.01). Late radiotherapy toxicity was higher in group 3 (n = 17; 65%) and group 2 (n = 17; 59%) than in group 1 (n = 3; 9%): group 3 ≃ group 2 > group 1 (P < 0.001). QoL was worse in groups 3 and 2 than in group 1: group 3 ≃ group 2 < group 1 (P < 0.002). Worse radiotherapy toxicity, QoL, and mortality were associated with deteriorated nutritional status and intake (P < 0.001). Likewise, depleted intake, nutritional status, and QoL predicted shorter survival and late toxicity (HR: 8.25; 95% CI: 2.74, 1.47; P < 0.001). This study conveys novel information about the effectiveness of nutrition at improving long-term prognosis in colorectal cancer. Overall, the data indicate that early individualized nutritional counseling and education during radiotherapy is valuable for patients.

  14. [Integripetal rhodiola herb attenuates high altitude-induced pulmonary arterial remodeling and expression of vascular endothelial growth factor in rats].

    PubMed

    Bai, Ma-Kang-Zhuo; Guo, Yan; Bian, Ba-Dun-Zhu; Dong, Hai; Wang, Tao; Luo, Feng; Wen, Fu-Qiang; Cui, Chao-Ying

    2011-04-25

    The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of integripetal rhodiola herb on pulmonary arterial remodeling and expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in high altitude pulmonary hypertension in rats. Fifty healthy male Wistar rats were divided into five groups randomly: Plain control group (LC group), 10-day plateau group (H(10) group), 30-day plateau group (H(30) group), 10-day rhodiola-treated plateau group (R(10) group), and 30-day rhodiola-treated plateau group (R(30) group). Each group included 10 rats. The rats in LC group were kept in Chengdu (500 meters above sea level), and rats in H and R groups were kept in Lhasa (3 700 meters above sea level). The rats in R group were daily treated with integripetal rhodiola herb extract (24%, 10 mL/kg) intragastrically for 10 d or 30 d, while rats in LC and H groups were treated with the same volume of saline. Mean pulmonary arterial pressure (mPAP) was detected via a catheter in the pulmonary artery by pressure waveform monitoring. The ratio value of right ventricle weight to left ventricle plus septum weight [RV/(LV + S)] was measured. The microstructure of pulmonary arterioles was examined by electron microscopy. The expression of VEGF in the lung was investigated using immunohistochemistry. The results showed that mPAP and [RV/(LV + S)] in H(10) group and H(30) group were higher than those in LC group (P < 0.05); but there was no significant difference between H(10) group and R(10) group (P < 0.05); and mPAP and [RV/(LV + S)] in H(30) group were lower than those in H(30) group (P < 0.05). Electron microscopy showed that compared to LC group, arteriolar endothelial cells were arranged in a columnar or palisading form, protruding into the lumen, accompanied with luminal stenosis, irregular internal elastic membrane, and proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells in H groups, which was more obvious in H(30) group than in H(10) group; while these pathological changes were attenuated in the R groups compared to H groups. The levels of VEGF protein in H groups were also higher than those in LC group (P < 0.05); while the expression of VEGF in R(30) group was lower than that in H(30) group. In summary, the results show that the integripetal rhodiola herb can attenuate high altitude-induced pulmonary arterial remodeling in rats, and the inhibition of VEGF protein expression by rhodiola may be one of the mechanisms.

  15. [CHANGES OF SEMAPHORIN 3A EXPRESSION IN HEALING OF TIBIA FRACTURE AFTER TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY].

    PubMed

    Li, Zhengzheng; Zhao, Junwei; Yi, Zhigang; Luo, Wei; Li, Kang; Wang, Yuliang; Wang, Jing; An, Liping; Ma, Jinglin

    2016-10-08

    To investigate the mechanism of Semaphorin 3A (Sema3A) in fracture healing after nerve injury by observing the expression of Sema3A in the tibia fracture healing after traumatic brain injury (TBI). A total of 192 Wistar female rats, 8-10 weeks old and weighing 220-250 g, were randomly divided into tibia fracture group (group A, n =48), TBI group (group B, n =48), TBI with tibia fracture group (group C, n =48), and control group (group D, n =48). The tibia fracture model was established at the right side of group A; TBI model was made in group B by the improved Feeney method; the TBI and tibia fracture model was made in group C; no treatment was given in group D. The tissue samples were respectively collected at 3, 5, 7, 14, 21, and 28 days after operation; HE staining, immunohistochemistry staining, and Western blot method were used for the location and quantitative detection of Sema3A in callus tissue. HE staining showed that no obvious changes were observed at each time point in groups B and D. At 3 and 5 days, there was no obvious callus growth at fracture site with inflammatory cells and fibrous tissue filling in groups A and C. At 7 and 14 days, fibrous tissue grew from periosteum to fracture site in groups A and C; the proliferation of chondrocytes in exterior periosteum gradually formed osteoid callus at fracture site in groups A and C. The chondrocyte had bigger size, looser arrangement, and more osteoid in group C than group A. Group B had disorder periosteum, slight subperiosteal bone hyperplasia, and no obvious change of bone trabecula in group B when compared with group D. At 21 and 28 days, cartilage callus was gradually replaced by new bone trabecula in groups A and C. Group C had loose arrange, disorder structure, and low density of bone trabecula, big callus area and few chondrocyte and osteoid when compared with group A; group B was similar to Group D. Immunohistochemistry staining showed that Sema3A expression in chondrocytes in group C was higher than that in group A, particularly at 7, 14, and 21 day. Sema3A was significantly higher in osteoblasts of new bone trabecula in group A than group C, especially at 14 and 21 days ( P <0.05). Western blot results showed that the Sema3A had the same expression trend during fracture healing in groups A and C. However, the expression of Sema3A protein was significantly higher in group C than group A ( P <0.05) and in group B than group D ( P <0.05) at 7, 14, 21, and 28 days. Abnormal expression of Sema3A may play a role in fracture healing after nerve injury by promoting the chondrocytes proliferation and reducing the distribution of sensory nerve fibers and osteoblast differentiation.

  16. [Effect of jingui shenqi pill and its disassembled recipes on ovarian functions in shen yang deficiency female rats].

    PubMed

    Long, Yong-Ling; Li, Zheng-Mu

    2013-07-01

    To observe the effect of Jingui Shenqi Pill (JSP) and its disassembled recipes (supplementing Shen yang, supplementing Shen yin, and supplementing Shen yang and Shen yin) on ovarian functions of female rats of Shen yang deficiency syndrome (SYDS). Totally 55 SD female rats were randomly divided into 5 groups, i.e., the normal control group, the model group, the Shen yang supplementing group, the Shen yin supplementing group, the Shen yang and Shen yin supplementing group, 11 in each group. Except the normal control group, rats in the rest group were injected with hydrocortisone at the daily dose of 25 mg/kg at the muscle of femoribus internus for 12 successive days. From the 13th day after successful modeling, rats were administered by gastrogavage with different recipes at the dose of 1 mL/100 g (2.75 g/kg Shen yang supplementing recipe; 6.25 g/kg Shen yin supplementing recipe; 6.75 g/kg JSP), once daily for 20 successive days. Equal volume of normal saline was given to those in the normal control group and the model group, once daily for 20 successive days. Blood was withdrawn from the orbit on the 2nd day after intervention. The serum estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P) were detected using ELISA. The weight of uterus and ovarian index (VI) were calculated. The pathological changes were observed by HE staining. The general condition of rats in the Shen yang and Shen yin supplementing group were improved. The body weight (g) was added by 35.0 +/- 12.5 in the normal control group, 16.7 +/- 7.4 in the model group, 20.2 +/- 6.9 in the Shen yang supplementing group, 18.3 +/- 3.6 in the Shen yin supplementing group, and 29.4 +/- 12.2 in the Shen yang and Shen yin supplementing group. The uterus VI (mg/100 g) was 183.4 +/- 11.6 in the normal control group,144.0 +/- 6.5 in the model group,158.7 +/- 6.3 in the Shen yang supplementing group,152.1 +/- 6.9 in the Shen yin supplementing group, and 172.8 +/- 8.1 in the Shen yang and Shen yin supplementing group. The ovarian VI (mg/100 g) were 32.9 +/- 2.4 in the normal control group, 22.6 +/- 1.1 in the model group, 25.0 +/- 1.4 in the Shen yang supplementing group, 23.0 +/- 0.4 in the Shen yin supplementing group, and 31.4 +/- 3.3 in the Shen yang and Shen yin supplementing group. Compared with the model group, the body weight and ovarian VI increased in the Shen yang supplementing group and the Shen yang and Shen yin supplementing group (P < 0.05, P < 0.01). The uterus VI increased in each medicated group (P < 0.05, P < 0.01). Compared with the Shen yang supplementing group and the Shen yin supplementing group, all indices increased in the Shen yang and Shen yin supplementing group (P < 0.05, P < 0.01). The E2 and P levels increased in the Shen yang supplementing group and the Shen yang and Shen yin supplementing group (P < 0.05, P < 0.01). The content of E2 (pg/mL) was 22.1 +/- 9.4 in the normal control group, 9.8 +/- 3.0 in the model group, 11.3 +/- 2.2 in the Shen yang supplementing group, 10.5 +/- 0.8 in the Shen yin supplementing group, and 16.0 +/- 5.5 in the Shen yang and Shen yin supplementing group. The content of P (ng/mL) was 14.6 +/- 7.5 in the normal control group, 4.3 +/- 1.8 in the model group, 8.3 +/- 2.8 in the Shen yang supplementing group, 5.9 +/- 2.9 in the Shen yin supplementing group, and 9.5 +/- 3.4 in the Shen yang and Shen yin supplementing group. Compared with the Shen yang supplementing group and the Shen yin supplementing group, the E2 level increased in the Shen yang and Shen yin supplementing group (P < 0.05, P < 0.01). Compared with the Shen yin supplementing group, the P level increased in the Shen yang and Shen yin supplementing group (P < 0.05). Compared with the model group, the ovarian follicle at each stage increased and pathological follicular ovarian follicles decreased in the Shen yang and Shen yin supplementing group (P < 0.01). Less primary follicles, secondary follicles, and mature follicles could be seen in the Shen yang supplementing group and the Shen yin supplementing group. The total numbers of all-level follicles were obviously higher in the Shen yang and Shen yin supplementing group than in the Shen yang supplementing group and the Shen yin supplementing group (P < 0.05). The number of pathological follicles was obviously less in the Shen yang and Shen yin supplementing group than in the Shen yin supplementing group (P < 0.05). As for SYDS, JSP and its dissembled recipes could improve damaged ovarian functions to some degree. But better effect could not be obtained by Shen yang supplementing method or Shen yin supplementing method alone. Shen yang and Shen yin supplementing method could elevate the efficacy.

  17. [Effects of glutamine induced heat shock protein 70 overexpression on atrial fibrosis and connexin 43 remodeling in isoprenaline-treated rats].

    PubMed

    Bao, Hong-Gang; Zhang, Wei-Ze; Ma, Ling; Li, Tao; Wang, Fei; Chen, Yong-Qing

    2013-04-01

    To explore the effects of glutamine (Gln) induced heat shock protein 70(Hsp70) overexpression on atrial fibrosis and connexin 43 remodeling in isoprenaline(ISO)treated rats and related mechanisms. Forty male SD rats were randomly divided into five groups (n = 8 each group): control group, DMSO group, ISO 5 mg×kg(-1)×d(-1) group (Fibrosis group), ISO 5 mg×kg(-1)×d(-1) + Ala-Gln 0.75 mg×kg(-1)×d(-1) group (Intervention group) and ISO 5 mg×kg(-1)×d(-1) + QUE 100 mg× kg(-1)×d(-1) + Ala-Gln 0.75 mg×kg(-1)×d(-1) + DMSO group (QUE group).Rats were killed after 7 d. The AngII expression in myocardial tissue was detected by radioimmunoassay; myocardial fibrosis was observed by HE staining.Collagen volume fractions were quantified by Masson staining and as the indicators of atrial fibrosis. The expressions of Hsp70, p-JNK1/2/3, c-Jun and Cx43 were determined with immunohistochemical method. AngII content was similar between the control group [(68.51 ± 10.76) pg/L] and DMSO [(71.47 ± 11.49) pg/L] group (P > 0.05), and significantly increased in fibrosis group [(211.25 ± 49.49) pg/L], intervention group [(185.32 ± 54.85) pg/L] and QUE [(189.90 ± 42.12) pg/L] group (P < 0.01 vs. control group). Atrial fibrosis was significantly higher in the fibrosis group [(29.485 ± 9.966)%] and QUE group [(25.060 ± 8.581)%] but not in the intervention group [(7.861 ± 1.867)%] compared to control group [(6.842 ± 1.674)%] and DMSO group [(7.108 ± 1.343)%]. The expression of Hsp70 was similar among the control group (0.160 ± 0.023), DMSO group (0.163 ± 0.022), fibrosis group (0.166 ± 0.028) and QUE (0.168 ± 0.027) group (P > 0.05) while significantly upregulated in the intervention group (0.215 ± 0.018) (P < 0.01 vs. control group). The expressions of p-JNK1/2/3 and c-Jun were similar between control group (0.151 ± 0.016;0.163 ± 0.022) and DMSO group (0.154 ± 0.021;0.164 ± 0.024)(P > 0.05), while significantly upregulated in fibrosis group (0.202 ± 0.025; 0.254 ± 0.044) and QUE group (0.196 ± 0.024; 0.251 ± 0.027) (P < 0.01 vs. control group) but not in intervention group (0.160 ± 0.025; 0.168 ± 0.024)were not changed obviously (P > 0.05 vs. control group). The content of Cx43 was similar between control group and DMSO group (0.231 ± 0.035 vs. 0.220 ± 0.032, P > 0.05), and was linearly distributed in intercalated disc of the cardiomyocytes, however, the content of Cx43 was significantly reduced (P < 0.01) and the Cx43 distribution was disordered in fibrosis group (0.163 ± 0.013) and QUE group (0.165 ± 0.024), while these changes were not found in intervention group. Glutamine could reduce the atrial fibrosis and Cx43 remodeling in isoprenaline-treated rats by up-regulating Hsp70 and inhibiting JNK signaling pathway activation through down-regulating p-JNK1/2/3 and c-Jun expression.

  18. Human cooperation by lethal group competition

    PubMed Central

    Egas, Martijn; Kats, Ralph; van der Sar, Xander; Reuben, Ernesto; Sabelis, Maurice W.

    2013-01-01

    Why humans are prone to cooperate puzzles biologists, psychologists and economists alike. Between-group conflict has been hypothesized to drive within-group cooperation. However, such conflicts did not have lasting effects in laboratory experiments, because they were about luxury goods, not needed for survival (“looting”). Here, we find within-group cooperation to last when between-group conflict is implemented as “all-out war” (eliminating the weakest groups). Human subjects invested in helping group members to avoid having the lowest collective pay-off, whereas they failed to cooperate in control treatments with random group elimination or with no subdivision in groups. When the game was repeated, experience was found to promote helping. Thus, not within-group interactions alone, not random group elimination, but pay-off-dependent group elimination was found to drive within-group cooperation in our experiment. We suggest that some forms of human cooperation are maintained by multi-level selection: reciprocity within groups and lethal competition among groups acting together. PMID:23459158

  19. Ganging up or sticking together? Group processes and children's responses to text-message bullying.

    PubMed

    Jones, Siân E; Manstead, Antony S R; Livingstone, Andrew G

    2011-02-01

    Drawing on social identity theory and intergroup emotion theory (IET), we examined group processes underlying bullying behaviour. Children were randomly assigned to one of three groups: a perpetrator's group, a target's group, or a third party group. They then read a gender-consistent scenario in which the norm of the perpetrator's group (to be kind or unkind towards others) was manipulated, and an instance of cyberbullying between the perpetrator's group and a member of the target's group was described. It was found that group membership, group norms, and the proposed antecedents of the group-based emotions of pride, shame, and anger (but not guilt) influenced group-based emotions and action tendencies in ways predicted by social identity and IET. The results underline the importance of understanding group-level emotional reactions when it comes to tackling bullying, and show that being part of a group can be helpful in overcoming the negative effects of bullying. ©2010 The British Psychological Society.

  20. 21 CFR 874.3320 - Group hearing aid or group auditory trainer.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-04-01

    ... 21 Food and Drugs 8 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Group hearing aid or group auditory trainer. 874... SERVICES (CONTINUED) MEDICAL DEVICES EAR, NOSE, AND THROAT DEVICES Prosthetic Devices § 874.3320 Group hearing aid or group auditory trainer. (a) Identification. A group hearing aid or group auditory trainer...

  1. 21 CFR 874.3320 - Group hearing aid or group auditory trainer.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-04-01

    ... 21 Food and Drugs 8 2012-04-01 2012-04-01 false Group hearing aid or group auditory trainer. 874... SERVICES (CONTINUED) MEDICAL DEVICES EAR, NOSE, AND THROAT DEVICES Prosthetic Devices § 874.3320 Group hearing aid or group auditory trainer. (a) Identification. A group hearing aid or group auditory trainer...

  2. 21 CFR 874.3320 - Group hearing aid or group auditory trainer.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-04-01

    ... 21 Food and Drugs 8 2014-04-01 2014-04-01 false Group hearing aid or group auditory trainer. 874... SERVICES (CONTINUED) MEDICAL DEVICES EAR, NOSE, AND THROAT DEVICES Prosthetic Devices § 874.3320 Group hearing aid or group auditory trainer. (a) Identification. A group hearing aid or group auditory trainer...

  3. 21 CFR 874.3320 - Group hearing aid or group auditory trainer.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-04-01

    ... 21 Food and Drugs 8 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Group hearing aid or group auditory trainer. 874... SERVICES (CONTINUED) MEDICAL DEVICES EAR, NOSE, AND THROAT DEVICES Prosthetic Devices § 874.3320 Group hearing aid or group auditory trainer. (a) Identification. A group hearing aid or group auditory trainer...

  4. Some Critical Differences between Self-Help and Therapy Groups.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Riordan, Richard J.; Beggs, Marilyn S.

    1988-01-01

    Presents a scheme for addressing differences between self-help groups and therapy groups, characterizing a list of group work parameters according to emphasis placed on each in therapy groups in contrast with self-help groups. Distinguishes between support groups, started by professional helping organizations or individuals, and self-help groups,…

  5. Using Telestrations™ to Illustrate Small Group Communication Principles

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Fedesco, Heather Noel

    2014-01-01

    This single class activity described here: (1) illustrates the importance of interdependence in groups; (2) can be used to measure group productivity and performance; (3) can encourage groups to engage in group learning; and (4) can facilitate group cohesion for newly formed groups. Students will be working in groups for the majority of their…

  6. Deviance as adherence to injunctive group norms: the overlooked role of social identification in deviance.

    PubMed

    Crane, Monique F; Platow, Michael J

    2010-12-01

    We currently report three studies investigating group members' expressions of dissatisfaction and discontent with the behaviour and attitudes of their in-group members. Our analysis examines the context in which group members will deviate from actual group member behaviour. We argue that highly identifying group members will challenge fellow group member behaviour when that group member behaviour is perceived to violate injunctive group norms. Further, we predicted that high identifiers would still challenge such group member behaviour even if that behaviour were conducted by a majority of group members. Thus, high identifiers were predicted to express descriptively deviant opinions when the behaviour of other members contravenes injunctive group norms. In Studies 1 and 2, group-level self-definition served as a moderator in the relationship between the expression of discontent and perceived injunctive norm violation; in Study 3, group-level self-investment served as this moderator. The findings supported our predictions. This support was particularly strong when a majority of group members violated group norms. Implications for the analysis of the relationship between social identification and deviance are discussed.

  7. Biliopancreatic duct injection of ethanol as an experimental model of acute and chronic pancreatitis in rats

    PubMed Central

    Unal, Ethem; Atalay, Suleyman; Tolan, Huseyin Kerem; Yuksekdag, Sema; Yucel, Metin; Acar, Aylin; Basak, Fatih; Gunes, Pembegul; Bas, Gurhan

    2015-01-01

    In the present study, we described an easily reproducable experimental pancreatits model induced by biliopancreatic duct injection of ethyl alcohol. Seventy Wistar albino rats were divided equally into seven groups randomly: the control group (group 1), acute pancreatitis groups; induced by 20% ethanol (group 2), 48% ethanol (group 3), 80% ethanol (group 4), chronic pancreatitis groups; induced by 20% ethanol (group 5), 48% ethanol (group 6) and by 80% ethanol (group 7). Acute pancreatitis groups were sacrified on postoperative day 3, while the control group and chronic pancreatitis groups were killed on postoperative day 7. Histopathologic evaluation was done, and P < 0.05 was accepted as statistically significant. All rats in group 3 developed acute pancreatitis (100%). Inflammatory infiltration of neutrophils and mononuclear cells, interstitial edema, and focal necrotic areas were seen in the pancreatic tissues. Similarly, all rats in group 6 developed chronic pancreatitis (100%). Interstitial fibrosis, lymphotic infiltration, ductal dilatation, acinar cell atrophy, periductal hyperplasia were seen in the pancreatic tissues. Mortality was seen only in group 7. The biliopancreatic ductal injection of 48% ethanol induced acute and chronic pancreatitis has 100% success rate. PMID:25785001

  8. Neuroprotective effects of agmatine in experimental peripheral nerve injury in rats: a prospective randomized and placebo-controlled trial.

    PubMed

    Sezer, Aykut; Guclu, Bulent; Kazanci, Burak; Cakir, Murteza; Coban, Mustafa Kemal

    2014-01-01

    The purpose of this study was to demonstrate the activity of agmatine, an inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) inhibitor and selective N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) antagonist, on reducing tissue damage in distal part of traumatic nerve in an experimental rat peripheral nerve injury model. Sciatic nerves of 30 Sprague Dawley male rats were used. Rats were divided into 5 groups; group 1 (n=6), control group; group 2 (n=6), axonotmesis + placebo group; group 3 (n=6), axonotmesis + 50 mg/kg agmatine treatment group; group 4 (n=6), neurotmesis + placebo group; group 5 (n=6), neurotmesis + 50 mg/kg agmatine treatment group. Axonolysis, axon degeneration, edema, hemorrhage, and inflammation were evaluated in histopathologic examinations of all the groups. When group 2 was compared with group 3 in histopathologic sections, axonolysis was less in group 3 (p=0.007), as was axon degeneration (p=0.022) and edema (p=0.018). When group 4 was compared with group 5, axonolysis was less in group 5 (p=0.009), as was axon degeneration (p=0.006) and edema (p=0.021). This study demonstrated agmatine to have antioxidant and antineurotoxic effects in an experimental rat peripheral nerve injury model.

  9. Src inhibitor reduces permeability without disturbing vascularization and prevents bone destruction in steroid-associated osteonecrotic lesions in rabbits.

    PubMed

    He, Yi-Xin; Liu, Jin; Guo, Baosheng; Wang, Yi-Xiang; Pan, Xiaohua; Li, Defang; Tang, Tao; Chen, Yang; Peng, Songlin; Bian, Zhaoxiang; Liang, Zicai; Zhang, Bao-Ting; Lu, Aiping; Zhang, Ge

    2015-03-09

    To examine the therapeutic effect of Src inhibitor on the VEGF mediating vascular hyperpermeability and bone destruction within steroid-associated osteonecrotic lesions in rabbits. Rabbits with high risk for progress to destructive repair in steroid-associated osteonecrosis were selected according to our published protocol. The selected rabbits were systemically administrated with either Anti-VEGF antibody (Anti-VEGF Group) or Src inhibitor (Src-Inhibition Group) or VEGF (VEGF-Supplement Group) or a combination of VEGF and Src inhibitor (Supplement &Inhibition Group) or control vehicle (Control Group) for 4 weeks. At 0, 2 and 4 weeks after administration, in vivo dynamic MRI, micro-CT based-angiography, histomorphometry and immunoblotting were employed to evaluate the vascular and skeletal events in different groups. The incidence of the destructive repair in the Anti-VEGF Group, Src-Inhibition Group and Supplement &Inhibition Group was all significantly lower than that in the Control Group. The angiogenesis was promoted in VEGF-Supplement Group, Src-Inhibition Group and Supplement &Inhibition Group, while the hyperpermeability was inhibited in Anti-VEGF Group, Src-Inhibition Group and Supplement &Inhibition Group. The trabecular structure was improved in Src-Inhibition Group and Supplement &Inhibition Group. Src inhibitor could reduce permeability without disturbing vascularization and prevent destructive repair in steroid-associated osteonecrosis.

  10. Evaluation of the effects of fulvestrant and micronized progesterone on the post-operative adhesion formation and ovarian reserve in rat model with immunohistochemical and biochemical analysis.

    PubMed

    Oner, Gokalp; Ulug, Pasa; Demirci, Elif; Kumtepe, Yakup; Gündogdu, Cemal

    2015-01-01

    To evaluate the effects of fulvestrant and micronized progesterone on post-operative adhesion formation and ovarian reserve in a rat uterine horn adhesion. In this prospective randomized controlled trial, 32 female Wistar albino rats were randomly divided into four groups including control group (Group 1), the control adhesion group (Group 2), 1 mg/kg daily intramuscular fulvestrant received group (Group 3) and 1 mg/kg daily oral micronized progesterone received group (Group 4). The extent and severity of adhesions were scored and samples were taken from adhesion areas to investigate the grades of adhesions according to the immunohistochemical scoring system. Ovarian reserves were measured with anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) and histological ovarian follicles count. The extent, severity and total adhesion scores were reduced in all treatment groups compared to control adhesion group (Group 2). Similarly, immunohistochemical adhesion scores were lower in the treatment groups. AMH and follicle count were significantly found lower in adhesion groups compared with control group. However, treatment groups were found to have higher ovarian reserve compared to control adhesion group (Group 2). Fulvestrant and micronized progesterone were found to reduce post-operative adhesion formations and have decreased detrimental effects of adhesion formation on ovarian reserve.

  11. Student Use of Out-of-Class Study Groups in an Introductory Undergraduate Biology Course

    PubMed Central

    Rybczynski, Stephen M.; Schussler, Elisabeth E.

    2011-01-01

    Self-formed out-of-class study groups may benefit student learning; however, few researchers have quantified the relationship between study group use and achievement or described changes in study group usage patterns over a semester. We related study group use to performance on content exams, explored patterns of study group use, and qualitatively described student perceptions of study groups. A pre- and posttest were used to measure student content knowledge. Internet-based surveys were used to collect quantitative data on exam performance and qualitative data on study group usage trends and student perceptions of study groups. No relationship was found between gains in content knowledge and study group use. Students who participated in study groups did, however, believe they were beneficial. Four patterns of study group use were identified: students either always (14%) or never (55%) used study groups, tried but quit using them (22%), or utilized study groups only late in the semester (9%). Thematic analysis revealed preconceptions and in-class experiences influence student decisions to utilize study groups. We conclude that students require guidance in the successful use of study groups. Instructors can help students maximize study group success by making students aware of potential group composition problems, helping students choose group members who are compatible, and providing students materials on which to focus their study efforts. PMID:21364102

  12. Effects of Urtica dioica on hepatic ischemia-reperfusion injury in rats.

    PubMed

    Kandis, Hayati; Karapolat, Sami; Yildirim, Umran; Saritas, Ayhan; Gezer, Suat; Memisogullari, Ramazan

    2010-01-01

    To evaluate the effects of Urtica dioica on hepatic ischemia-reperfusion injury. Thirty adult male Wistar albino rats were divided into three groups: sham group (group 1), control group (group 2), and Urtica dioica group (group 3). All the rats were exposed to hepatic ischemia for 60 min, followed by 60 min of reperfusion. In group 2, a total of 2 ml/kg 0.9% saline solution was given intraperitoneally. In group 3, a total of 2 ml/kg Urtica dioica was given intraperitoneally. At the end of the procedure, liver tissue and blood samples were taken from all rats. Serum aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, lactate dehydrogenase, ceruloplasmin, catalase, paraoxonase, arylesterase, and lipid hydroperoxide levels were measured. Liver tissue histopathologies were also evaluated by light microscopy. Serum aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase and lactate dehydrogenase levels were significantly higher in group 2 than in group 1, and significantly lower in group 3 than in group 2. Also, group 2 had higher serum lipid hydroperoxides and ceruloplasmin levels but lower catalase, paraoxonase, and arylesterase levels than group 1. In group 3, serum lipid hydroperoxides and ceruloplasmin levels were significantly lower, and catalase, paraoxonase, and arylesterase levels were higher than those in group 2. Histopathological examination showed that liver tissue damage was significantly decreased in group 3 compared with group 2. Urtica dioica has a protective effect on the liver in hepatic ischemia-reperfusion-injured rats.

  13. Effects of flurbiprofen axetil on postoperative serum IL-2 and IL-6 levels in patients with colorectal cancer.

    PubMed

    Jiang, W W; Wang, Q H; Peng, P; Liao, Y J; Duan, H X; Xu, M; Li, Y; Zhang, P B

    2015-12-09

    We explored the effects of flurbiprofen axetil on interleukin (IL)-2 and IL-6 levels in postoperative patients with colorectal cancer. A total of 120 patients (American Society of Anesthesiologists I and II) scheduled to undergo colorectal cancer surgery were randomly divided into 3 groups (N = 40 in each group): flurbiprofen axetil group (group F), morphine group (group M), and tramadol group (group T). Group M received 0.1 mg/kg morphine, group T received 1.5 mg/kg tramadol, and group F received 1.5 mg/kg flurbiprofen axetil. Patients in the 3 groups were administered treatments through intravenous injection 10 min before surgery. Serum IL-2 and IL-6 levels were detected. Postoperative adverse reactions were recorded, such as nausea, vomiting, and pruritus. The serum IL-6 level of the 3 groups increased 3 h after surgery. Compared with group M, IL-6 level was higher in group T and group F at 1 day after the surgery, and the differences between group M and the other groups were significant (P < 0.05). Moreover, the incidence of adverse reactions was significantly different among 3 groups (P < 0.05). Flurbiprofen axetil promoted the secretion of IL-2 and inhibited IL-6; additionally, flurbiprofen axetil may have a lower incidence of adverse reactions compared to other treatments.

  14. Study about the effects of different fitness sports on cognitive function and emotion of the aged.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Xinan; Ni, Xiaomei; Chen, Peijie

    2014-12-01

    The aim of the study was to explore the effects of different fitness sports on cognitive function and emotion of the aged people. A total of 150 subjects aged between 60 and 70 were recruited from Shenyang Aged University and elderly activity center. All subjects reported no fitness before this study. The aged subjects were divided into five groups, included swimming group (A group), running group (B group), square dancing group (C group), Tai Chi group (D group) and control group (E group) with 30 people in each group. Subjects in each group received exercise intervention continued for 18 months. At baseline, 6, 12 and 18 months after intervention, the P300 test, SECF, HAMD and HAMA scale evaluations were performed. Compared to E group, the P2, N2 and P3 latency and response time in the D group after intervention for 6 months, and in the A-C groups after intervention for 12 months were significantly prolonged. The anxiety symptom and depression levels in the A-D groups after intervention for 12 months were significantly decreased when compared to E group (P < 0. 01), where significantly improved compared with the E group (P < 0. 01). The effect of exercise intervention for Tai Chi group was the most significant. Different fitness sports have marked beneficial effect on cognitive function and emotion of the aged people, especially the Tai Chi exercise.

  15. Protective effects of boron and vitamin E on ethylene glycol-induced renal crystal calcium deposition in rat.

    PubMed

    Bahadoran, H; Naghii, M R; Mofid, M; Asadi, M H; Ahmadi, K; Sarveazad, A

    2016-10-01

    Kidney stone disease is a common form of renal disease. Antioxidants, such as vitamin E (Vit E) and boron, are substances that reduce the damage caused by oxidation. Adult male rats were divided into 5 groups (n=6). In group 1, rats received standard food and water for 28 days (control group); in group 2, standard rodent food and water with 0.75% ethylene glycol/d (dissolved in drinking water) (EG Group); in group 3, similar to group 2, with 3 mg of boron/d (dissolved in water) (EG+B Group); in group 4, similar to group 2, with 200 IU of vitamin E injected intraperitoneally on the first day and the 14th day, (EG+Vit E Group); in group 5, mix of groups 3 and 4, respectively (EG+B+Vit E Group). Kidney sections showed that crystals in the EG group increased significantly in comparison with the control group. Crystal calcium deposition score in groups of EG+B (160), EG+Vit E, and EG+B+Vit E showed a significant decrease compared to EG group. Measurement of the renal tubules area and renal tubular epithelial histological score showed the highest significant dilation in the EG group. Tubular dilation in the EG+B+Vit E group decreased compared to the EG+B and EG+Vit E groups. Efficient effect of boron and Vit E supplements, separately and in combination, has a complimentary effect in protection against the formation of kidney stones, probably by decreasing oxidative stress.

  16. Evaluation of nutritional status and support in children with congenital heart disease.

    PubMed

    Blasquez, A; Clouzeau, H; Fayon, M; Mouton, J-B; Thambo, J-B; Enaud, R; Lamireau, T

    2016-04-01

    The objective of this disease was to determine the prevalence of malnutrition in children with congenital heart disease (CHD). A total of 125 children with CHD, under 6 months of age, were divided into four groups: no pulmonary hypertension (PH) or cyanosis (group 1, n=47), isolated cyanosis (group 2, n=52), isolated PH (group 3, n=16), and PH and cyanosis (group 4, n=10). Six children died at 6 months (n=4), 12 months (n=1) and 19 months (n=1). The remaining children were followed-up for 24 months. Prevalence of moderate to severe malnutrition (weight/weight for height <80%), caloric intake and medications were compared between the four groups. Moderate or severe malnutrition was more frequent in group 4 (100%) compared with others groups (group 1, 20%; group 2, 16.7% and group 3, 50%; P<0.05). Low oral caloric intake was more frequent in group 3 (71.4%) and group 4 (75%) than in group 1 (28%) and 2 (28.6%) (P<0.05). Food enrichment was practised in half of the children of group 4 and rarely in other groups (group 1, 15.8%; group 2, 8.6% and group 3, 11.1%; P<0.05). Enteral feeding was used more often in groups 3 (33.3%) and 4 (50%) than in groups 1 (15.8%) or 2 (14.3%; P<0.05). Moderate or severe malnutrition is present in 15% of children with CHD, and it is more frequent in case of PH. Half of these children demonstrate low caloric intake, whereas few have proper nutritional support.

  17. Study on perfume stimulating olfaction with volatile oil of Acorus gramineus for treatment of the Alzheimer's disease rat.

    PubMed

    Liu, Zhi-Bin; Niu, Wen-Min; Yang, Xiao-Hang; Wang, Yuan; Wang, Wei-Gang

    2010-12-01

    To probe into the therapeutic effect of perfume stimulating olfaction with volatile oil of Acorus Gramineus on the Alzheimer's disease (AD) rat. Totally 50 adult SD rats, male,weighing 300 +/- 10 g, were randomly divided into 5 groups, normal group (group A), olfactory nerve severing model group (group B), AD model group (group C), AD model plus perfume stimulation group (group D), AD model olfactory nerve severing plus perfume stimulation group (group E), 10 rats in each group. After perfume stimulation, Morris maze test was conducted for valuating the learning and memory ability; Malondaldehyde (MDA) content, and superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activities in the brain, and the brain weight were detected. Compared with the AD model group, the average escape latency and swimming distance in 6 days were significantly shorter than those in the group A, B, D (P < 0.01), with no significant differences between the group C and the group E (P > 0.05); Compared with the group A, B and D, MDA content in the group C significantly increased (P < 0.01), and SOD and GSH-Px activities significantly decreased (P < 0.01), and brain weight/body weight decreased significantly in the group C (P < 0.01), with no significant differences between the group C and the group E (P > 0.05). Perfume stimultating olfaction with volatile oil of Acorus Gramineus can significantly increase the learning-memory ability, decrease MDA content and increase SOD and GSH-Px activities and weight of brain in AD rats.

  18. Ameliorating effects of tempol on methotrexate-induced liver injury in rats.

    PubMed

    Pınar, Neslihan; Kaplan, Mahir; Özgür, Tümay; Özcan, Oğuzhan

    2018-06-01

    Methotrexate (MTX) is used in the treatment of certain types of cancers and chronic inflammatory illnesses, although the clinical use of MTX is limited due to its adverse effects, the most common of which are hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity. In the present study, we demonstrate the protecting influence of tempol related to oxidative stress in MTX-induced liver toxicity in rats using histopathological and biochemical parameters. The rats were divided into four groups: control group (group 1), tempol group (group 2), MTX group (group 3) and MTX + tempol group (group 4). The control group (group 1) received physiological saline for 10 days; the tempol group (group 2) received 30 mg/kg i.p. for 10 days, the MTX group (group 3) received a single dose of 20 mg/kg intraperitoneal (i.p.) on the fourth day of the study, and the MTX + tempol group (group 4) received a single dose of 20 mg/kg i.p. on the fourth day, followed by tempol 30 mg/kg i.p. for 10 days. Malondialdehyde (MDA), myeloperoxidase (MPO), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels were found to be significantly lower in the MTX + tempol group then in the MTX group; while superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) levels were found to be higher in the MTX + tempol group than in the MTX group. Tempol ameliorates vacuolic degeneration, inflammation and necrosis in MTX-treated rats. Our study demonstrates that tempol treatment after MTX administration ameliorates oxidative damage in liver tissue in rats. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS.

  19. Milligan-Morgan hemorrhoidectomy with anal cushion suspension and partial internal sphincter resection for circumferential mixed hemorrhoids.

    PubMed

    Lu, Ming; Shi, Guang-Ying; Wang, Guo-Qiang; Wu, Yan; Liu, Yang; Wen, Hao

    2013-08-14

    To identify a more effective treatment protocol for circumferential mixed hemorrhoids. A total of 192 patients with circumferential mixed hemorrhoids were randomized into the treatment group, where they underwent Milligan-Morgan hemorrhoidectomy with anal cushion suspension and partial internal sphincter resection, or the control group, where traditional external dissection and internal ligation were performed. Postoperative recovery and complications were monitored. The time to wound healing was 12.96 ± 2.25 d in the treatment group shorter than 19.58 ± 2.71 d in the control group. Slight pain rate was 58.3% in the treatment group higher than 22.9% in the control group; moderate pain rate was 33.3% in the treatment group lower than 56.3% in the control group severe pain rate was 8.4% in the treatment group lower than 20.8% in the control group. No edema rate was 70.8% in the treatment group higher than 43.8% in the control group; mild local edema rate was 26% in the treatment group lower than 39.6% in the control group obvious local edema was 3.03% in the treatment group lower than 16.7% in the control group. No stenosis rate was 85.4% in the treatment group higher than 63.5% in the control group; moderate stenosis rate was 14.6% in the treatment group Lower than 27.1% in the control group severe anal stenosis rate was 0% in the treatment group lower than 9.4% in the control group. Milligan-Morgan hemorrhoidectomy with anal cushion suspension and partial internal sphincter resection is the optimal treatment for circumferential mixed hemorrhoids and can be widely applied in clinical settings.

  20. Milligan-Morgan hemorrhoidectomy with anal cushion suspension and partial internal sphincter resection for circumferential mixed hemorrhoids

    PubMed Central

    Lu, Ming; Shi, Guang-Ying; Wang, Guo-Qiang; Wu, Yan; Liu, Yang; Wen, Hao

    2013-01-01

    AIM: To identify a more effective treatment protocol for circumferential mixed hemorrhoids. METHODS: A total of 192 patients with circumferential mixed hemorrhoids were randomized into the treatment group, where they underwent Milligan-Morgan hemorrhoidectomy with anal cushion suspension and partial internal sphincter resection, or the control group, where traditional external dissection and internal ligation were performed. Postoperative recovery and complications were monitored. RESULTS: The time to wound healing was 12.96 ± 2.25 d in the treatment group shorter than 19.58 ± 2.71 d in the control group. Slight pain rate was 58.3% in the treatment group higher than 22.9% in the control group; moderate pain rate was 33.3% in the treatment group lower than 56.3% in the control group severe pain rate was 8.4% in the treatment group lower than 20.8% in the control group. No edema rate was 70.8% in the treatment group higher than 43.8% in the control group; mild local edema rate was 26% in the treatment group lower than 39.6% in the control group obvious local edema was 3.03% in the treatment group lower than 16.7% in the control group. No stenosis rate was 85.4% in the treatment group higher than 63.5% in the control group; moderate stenosis rate was 14.6% in the treatment group Lower than 27.1% in the control group severe anal stenosis rate was 0% in the treatment group lower than 9.4% in the control group. CONCLUSION: Milligan-Morgan hemorrhoidectomy with anal cushion suspension and partial internal sphincter resection is the optimal treatment for circumferential mixed hemorrhoids and can be widely applied in clinical settings. PMID:23946609

  1. Evaluation of nanoselenium (Nano-Se) effect on hematological and serum biochemical parameters of rat in experimentally lead poisoning.

    PubMed

    Dehkordi, A Jafari; Mohebbi, A N; Aslani, M R; Ghoreyshi, S M

    2017-04-01

    The present study was designed to evaluate the effect of nanoselenium (Nano-Se) on hematological and biochemical parameters of rats experimentally intoxicated with lead (Pb). Thirty male rats were randomly divided into six groups as follows: the control, selenite, Nano-Se, Pb group, Pb + selenite, and Pb + Nano-Se groups. After 35 days, blood was collected from rats and hematology and serum biochemical parameters of oxidative stress were measured. The thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) level of Pb group was significantly higher than other groups. Also, TBARS level was significantly lower in the Pb + Nano-Se group than Pb + selenite group. The serum superoxide dismutase activities were significantly lower in Pb group than the control, Pb + selenite, and Pb + Nano-Se groups. The catalase activities in the Pb group showed no significant change when compared to other groups. In the Pb group, packed cell volume was lower than the control group. A significant difference was observed between the control group and the Pb, Pb + selenite, and Pb + Nano-Se groups. In the Pb group, the numbers of white blood cell (WBC) decreased in comparison with the control group. Also, there was significant increase in WBC counts in the Pb + Nano-Se and Pb + selenite groups in comparison with Pb group. The number of lymphocytes in the Pb group decreased in comparison with the control group. By comparing the means of the Pb + Nano-Se and Pb + selenite groups together, it was determined that there were significant differences in the lymphocytes and neutrophil counts. In conclusion, usage of selenium compounds particularly Nano-Se particles inhibits the adverse effects of Pb on antioxidant activity and immune system function in the Pb poisoning.

  2. In-group defense, out-group aggression, and coordination failures in intergroup conflict

    PubMed Central

    De Dreu, Carsten K. W.; Méder, Zsombor; Giffin, Michael; Prochazkova, Eliska; Krikeb, Jonathan

    2016-01-01

    Intergroup conflict persists when and because individuals make costly contributions to their group’s fighting capacity, but how groups organize contributions into effective collective action remains poorly understood. Here we distinguish between contributions aimed at subordinating out-groups (out-group aggression) from those aimed at defending the in-group against possible out-group aggression (in-group defense). We conducted two experiments in which three-person aggressor groups confronted three-person defender groups in a multiround contest game (n = 276; 92 aggressor–defender contests). Individuals received an endowment from which they could contribute to their group’s fighting capacity. Contributions were always wasted, but when the aggressor group’s fighting capacity exceeded that of the defender group, the aggressor group acquired the defender group’s remaining resources (otherwise, individuals on both sides were left with the remainders of their endowment). In-group defense appeared stronger and better coordinated than out-group aggression, and defender groups survived roughly 70% of the attacks. This low success rate for aggressor groups mirrored that of group-hunting predators such as wolves and chimpanzees (n = 1,382 cases), hostile takeovers in industry (n = 1,637 cases), and interstate conflicts (n = 2,586). Furthermore, whereas peer punishment increased out-group aggression more than in-group defense without affecting success rates (Exp. 1), sequential (vs. simultaneous) decision-making increased coordination of collective action for out-group aggression, doubling the aggressor’s success rate (Exp. 2). The relatively high success rate of in-group defense suggests evolutionary and cultural pressures may have favored capacities for cooperation and coordination when the group goal is to defend, rather than to expand, dominate, and exploit. PMID:27601640

  3. [Expression of OPG/RANK/RANKL in the rat dental pulp tissue of periodontitis combined with vascular calcification and its clinical significance].

    PubMed

    Pan, Ke-Qing; Zhang, Peng-Mei; Deng, Jing; Lou, Xiu-Xiu; Meng, Yun; Liu, Gui-Rong

    2016-08-01

    To study the expression and possible role of OPG/RANK/RANKLin the rat dental pulp of periodontitis combined with vascular calcification. Thirty-six male Wister rats were randomly divided into 4 groups: control group(group C), periodontitis group(group CP), vascular calcification group(group VDN) and compound group(group CP+VDN). Each group underwent corresponding management to establish animal model. When the model was successful, the maxillae including molars were sectioned, pulp tissue was examined by H-E staining; Immunohistochemical staining method was used to evaluate the expression and ratio of OPG and RANKL in pulp tissues. Statistical analysis was carried out using SPSS 19.0 software package. The pulp tissue of group CP, VDN, CP+VDN showed varied degrees of damage, neutrophil infiltration, pulp vascular congestion, odontoblasts vacuolar changes, pulp necrosis by H-E staining, and the changes in CP+VDN group was the most significant, followed by CP group, VDN group. Immunohistochemistry showed OPG in pulp tissues in group CP, VDN, CP+VDN were significantly lower than that in normal group (P<0.05), and the expression in group CP+VDN was the least;Expression of RANKL in pulp tissues in group CP, VDN, CP+VDN were significantly higher than that in normal group(P<0.05)，and the expression in group CP+VDN was the highest. The ratio of OPG/RANKL in normal group was the highest, and the ratio in CP+VDN group was the lowest. Periodontitis and vascular calcification can damage the pulp tissue, periodontitis compound with vascular calcification may aggravate the injury; OPG/RANKL/RANK system may play an important role in pulp tissue injury.

  4. Three-month treatment with triptorelin, letrozole and ulipristal acetate before hysteroscopic resection of uterine myomas: prospective comparative pilot study.

    PubMed

    Bizzarri, Nicolò; Ghirardi, Valentina; Remorgida, Valentino; Venturini, Pier Luigi; Ferrero, Simone

    2015-09-01

    To compare the usefulness of preoperative treatment with triptorelin, letrozole or ulipristal acetate or no treatment before hysteroscopic removal of uterine submucosal myomas. Single center prospective non-randomized comparative pilot study. The study included consecutive premenopausal patients undergoing hysteroscopic resection of myomas graded as type 0, type 1 or type 2 according to the FIGO classification with diameter between 20 and 35 mm. Exclusion criteria were: associated polyps, associated non-hysteroscopic surgical procedures, >2 myomas requiring hysteroscopic resection. This study enrolled patients who underwent either direct surgery (group S; n=23) or 3-month preoperative treatment with triptorelin (3.75 mg every 28 days; group T; n=20), letrozole (2.5 mg/day; group L; n=11) or ulipristal acetate (5 mg/day; group U; n=7). Patients underwent hysteroscopic resection of the myomas. All medical treatments caused a significant decrease in the volume of myomas (group T, p<.001; group L, p<.001; group U, p=.006); however, the percentage decrease in myoma volume was lower in group U than in group T (p=.001) and in group L (p=.010). The hysteroscopy time was higher in group S than in group T (p<.001) and in group L (p=.001); there was no significant difference in the hysteroscopy time between group S and group U (p=.206). Fluid absorption was lower in group T than in group S (p=.002) and in group L than in group S (p=.048); fluid absorption was similar in group S and group U (p=.110). Intra- and postoperative complications, postoperative pain, and patient satisfaction were similar in the four study groups. Surgeon's evaluation of operative difficulty was better in group T than in group S (p<.005). Preoperative treatment with triptorelin and letrozole decreases the hysteroscopy time and the volume of fluid absorbed during hysteroscopic resection of uterine submucosal myomas. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

  5. The Study of Different Approaches of Parecoxib Sodium Pretreatment on the Behavior of Rats with Neuropathic Pain.

    PubMed

    Cui, Wenyao; Yu, Xue; Zhang, Huiqian

    2015-05-01

    Our objective is to analyze and observe the different administration routes of parecoxib sodium pretreatment on the behavioral improvement of rats with neuropathic pain to provide the preclinical data of parecoxib sodium on neuropathic pain treatment. 30 SD rats were randomly divided into five groups, including model group, sham operation group, intrathecal injection group (IT group), intraperitoneal injection group (IP group), and perineural infiltration group (PI group). The rats in model group and three parecoxib sodium pretreatment groups received spinal nerve ligation (SNL). Heat pain test and 50 % paw mechanical withdrawal threshold test (50 % PMWT) were use to assess the responses after parecoxib sodium pretreatment. 50 % PMWT results of right foot in five groups had no statistical difference (P > 0.05); 50 % PMWT results of left and right feet in three parecoxib sodium pretreatment groups were obviously higher than SNL group at different time points, which was statistically different (P < 0.05); in comparison with three pretreatment groups, the data of left foot in IT group were obviously higher than PI group and IP group, and the comparison among three groups had significant difference (P < 0.05). However, the data of right foot had no significant difference among three groups (P > 0.05). Paw thermal withdrawal latency (PTWL) results of left and right feet in five groups had no significant difference before surgery (P > 0.05); after the establishment of neuropathic model, PTWL results in five groups were significantly decreased; however, PTWL results of left and right feet at 3 days after surgery in IT group were significantly higher than the two other pretreatment groups (P < 0.05); PTWL results of left and right feet at 7 and 14 days after surgery had no significant difference. Parecoxib sodium pretreatment can effectively improve the behaviors caused by neuropathic pain, and intrathecal injection is the most effective route of administration.

  6. [Effects of electroacupuncture at "Jiaji" (EX-B 2) on myocardial apoptosis and the expression of Bcl-2 and Bax in rats with ischemia-reperfusion injury].

    PubMed

    Kong, Su-Ping; Zhang, Xin; Tan, Qi-Wen

    2013-06-01

    To explore the protective mechanism of acupuncture on myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury. Fifty Wistar rats were randomly divided into a sham-operation group, a model group, a Jiaji group , a Neiguan group and a Yanglingquan group, 10 rats in each group. The model of myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury was duplicated by ligating the left anterior descending coronary artery (LADCA) in the later four groups, and the LADCA was not ligated in the sham-operation group. The rats in the treatment groups were treated with electroacupuncture at "Jiaji" (EX-B 2), "Neiguan" (PC 6) and "Yanglingquan" (GB 34) on both sides, respectively, once a day for 7 days. No interventions were produced in the sham-operation group and model group. Myocardial apoptosis were examined by the TUNEL method. The expressions of Bcl-2 and Bax proteins were measured by immunohistochemical method. Apoptosis index(AI) was significantly lower in the Jiaji group, Neiguan group and sham-operation group compared with model group (P < 0.01). Compared with the sham-operation group, AI were significantly increased in other groups (all P < 0.01). There was no significant difference in AI between Jiaji and Neiguan group (P > 0.05). Compared with the model group, the expression of Bcl-2 was significantly increased and Bax protein was significantly decreased in Jiaji group and Neiguan group (both P < 0.01). The expressions of Bcl-2 and Bax proteins were significantly increased in other groups compared with the sham-operation group (all P < 0.01). There was no significant difference in the expression of Bcl-2 and Bax proteins between Jiaji and Neiguan group (P > 0.05). Electroacupuncture at both Jiaji (EX-B 2) and Neiguan (PC 6) has protective effects on myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury, and the mechanism is closely related to inhibiting myocardial apoptosis by adjusting the expression of Bcl-2 and Bax.

  7. Non-invasive treatment to grade 1 essential hypertension by percutaneous laser and electric pulse to acupoint with music: A randomized controlled trial.

    PubMed

    Zhan, Hong-Rui; Hong, Zhong-Si; Chen, Yi-Shen; Hong, Hai-Yu; Weng, Ze-Bin; Yang, Zhang-Bin; Shi, Jing-Li; Chen, Zhong-Ben

    2016-09-01

    To study a non-drug therapy for hypertension disease by combining percutaneous laser and electric pulse stimulation to acupoint with music, and to test the efficiency of the combining treatment to grade 1 essential hypertension. A total of 174 patients with grade 1 essential hypertension were randomly assigned to 3 groups with a random number table after Chinese medicine (CM) syndrome differentiation: the photoelectric and musical treatment group (Group 1, with a self-developed multi-mode audio frequency pulse photoelectric therapeutic apparatus), acupuncture group (Group 2), and oral placebo group (Group 3), 58 cases per group. The curative effect of each group was evaluated by the changes of blood pressure and CM syndrome integral before and after treatment. Compared with Group 3, there were significant decrease of blood pressure and CM syndrome integral in Group 1 and Group 2 (P<0.01). Compared with Group 2, Group 1 showed the highest decrease in systolic pressure (P<0.017). The total effective rate of anti-hypertension in Group 1 (91.38%, 53/58) was significantly higher than that in Group 2 (74.13%, 43/58) and Group 3 (18.97%, 11/58, P<0.05 or P<0.01); and that in Group 2 was also significantly higher than that in Group 3 (P<0.01). There were significant difference in the total effective rate of CM syndrome integral in both Group 1 (93.10%, 54/58) and Group 2 (84.48%, 49/58) as compared with Group 3 (17.24%, 10/58, P<0.01), while there was no significant difference between Group 1 and Group 2 (P>0.05). The multi-mode audio frequency pulse photoelectric therapeutic apparatus, combining music, laser and electric pulse stimulation, is clinically useful for grade 1 essential hypertension. This "three in one" therapy method is non-invasive, easy and simple to handle. It is expected to be popularized as a new alternative treatment.

  8. Mini-intervention for subacute low back pain: a randomized controlled trial.

    PubMed

    Karjalainen, Kaija; Malmivaara, Antti; Pohjolainen, Timo; Hurri, Heikki; Mutanen, Pertti; Rissanen, Pekka; Pahkajärvi, Helena; Levon, Heikki; Karpoff, Hanna; Roine, Risto

    2003-03-15

    Randomized controlled trial. To investigate the effectiveness and costs of a mini-intervention, provided in addition to the usual care, and the incremental effect of a work site visit for patients with subacute disabling low back pain. There is lack of data on cost-effectiveness of brief interventions for patients with prolonged low back pain. A total of 164 patients with subacute low back pain were randomized to a mini-intervention group (A), a work site visit group (B), or a usual care group (C). Groups A (n = 56) and B (n = 51) underwent one assessment by a physician plus a physiotherapist. Group B received a work site visit in addition. Group C served as controls (n = 57) and was treated in municipal primary health care. All patients received a leaflet on back pain. Pain, disability, specific and generic health-related quality of life, satisfaction with care, days on sick leave, and use and costs of health care consumption were measured at 3-, 6-, and 12-month follow-ups. During follow-up, fewer subjects had daily pain in Groups A and B than in Group C (Group A Group C, = 0.002; Group B Group C, = 0.030). In Group A, pain was less bothersome (Group A Group C, = 0.032) and interfered less with daily life (Group A Group C, = 0.040) than among controls. Average days on sick leave were 19 in Group A, 28 in Group B, and 41 in Group C (Group A Group C, = 0.019). Treatment satisfaction was better in the intervention groups than among the controls, and costs were lowest in the mini-intervention group. Mini-intervention reduced daily back pain symptoms and sickness absence, improved adaptation to pain and patient satisfaction among patients with subacute low back pain, without increasing health care costs. A work site visit did not increase effectiveness.

  9. The impact of gout on patient's lives: a study of African-American and Caucasian men and women with gout.

    PubMed

    Singh, Jasvinder A

    2014-06-24

    The aim of this study was to examine the impact of gout on quality of life (QOL) and study differences by gender and race. Ten race- and sex-stratified nominal groups were conducted, oversampling for African-Americans and women with gout. Patients presented, discussed, combined and rank-ordered their concerns. A total of 62 patients with mean age 65.1 years, 60% men, 64% African-American, participated in 10 nominal groups: African-American men (n = 23; 3 groups); African-American women (n = 18; 3 groups); Caucasian men (n = 15; 3 groups); and Caucasian women (n = 6; 1 group). The most frequently cited high-ranked concerns among the ten nominal groups were: (1) effect of gout flare on daily activities (n = 10 groups); (2) work disability (n = 8 groups); (3) severe pain (n = 8 groups); (4) joint swelling and tenderness (n = 6 groups); (5) food restrictions (n = 6 groups); (6) medication related issues (n = 6 groups); (7) dependency on family and others (n = 5 groups); (8) emotional Impact (n = 5 groups); (9) interference with sexual function (n = 4 groups); (10) difficulty with shoes (n = 4 groups); and (11) sleep disruption (n = 4 groups). Compared with men, women ranked the following concerns high more often: problems with shoes (n = 4 versus n = 0 groups); dependency (n = 3 versus n = 2 groups); and joint/limb deformity (n = 2 versus n = 0 group). Compared with Caucasians, African-Americans ranked the following concerns high more often: dietary restrictions (n = 6 versus n = 0 groups); severe pain (n = 6 versus n = 2 groups); gout bringing the day to a "halt" (n = 2 versus n = 0 group); effect on emotional health (n = 4 versus n = 1 groups); and the need for canes/crutches during flares (n = 2 versus n = 0 group). Gout has a significant impact on a patient's QOL. Important differences in the impact of gout by gender and race were noted.

  10. Cancer treatment adherence among low-income women with breast or gynecologic cancer: a randomized controlled trial of patient navigation.

    PubMed

    Ell, Kathleen; Vourlekis, Betsy; Xie, Bin; Nedjat-Haiem, Frances R; Lee, Pey-Jiuan; Muderspach, Laila; Russell, Christy; Palinkas, Lawrence A

    2009-10-01

    The authors implemented a controlled, randomized trial that compared 2 interventions: the provision of written resource navigation information (enhanced usual care [EUC]) versus written information plus patient navigation (TPN) aimed at improving adjuvant treatment adherence and follow-up among 487 low-income, predominantly Hispanic women with breast cancer or gynecologic cancer. Women were randomized to receive either TPN or EUC; and chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, and follow-up were assessed over 12 months. Patients with breast cancer were analyzed separately from patients with gynecologic cancer. Overall adherence rates ranged from 87% to 94%, and there were no significant differences between the TPN group and the EUC group. Among women with breast cancer, 90% of the EUC group and 88% of the TPN group completed chemotherapy (14% of the EUC group and 26% of the TPN group delayed the completion of chemotherapy), 2% of the EUC group and 4% of the TPN group failed to complete chemotherapy, and 8% of the EUC group and 7% of the TPN group refused chemotherapy. Radiation treatment adherence was similar between the groups: Ninety percent of patients completed radiation (40% of the EUC group and 42% of the TPN group delayed the completion of radiation); in both groups, 2% failed to complete radiation, and 8% refused radiation. Among gynecologic patients, 87% of the EUC group and 94% of the TPN group completed chemotherapy (41% of the EUC group and 31% of the TPN group completed it with delays), 7% of the EUC group and 6% of the TPN group failed to complete chemotherapy, 6% of the EUC refused chemotherapy, 87% of the EUC group and 84% of the TPN group completed radiation (51% of the EUC group and 42% of the TPN with delays), 5% of the EUC group and 8% of the TPN group failed to complete radiation, and 8% of the EUC group and 5% of the TPN group refused radiation. Treatment adherence across randomized groups was notably higher than reported in previous studies, suggesting that active telephone patient navigation or written resource informational materials may facilitate adherence among low-income, predominantly Hispanic women. Adherence also may have be facilitated by federal-state breast and cervical cancer treatment funding. 2009 American Cancer Society.

  11. [MAPK signaling pathways involved in aluminum-induced apoptosis and necroptosis in SH-SY5Y cells].

    PubMed

    Jia, Xiaofang; Zhang, Qinli; Niu, Qiao

    2014-11-01

    To explore the role of MAPK signaling pathway in apoptosis and necroptosis induced by aluminum in SH-SY5Y cells. To imitate neural cell death induced by aluminium, AlCl3 x 6H2O (4 mmol/L) was used to treat SH-SY5Y cells. Necrostatin-1 (Nec-1,60 μmol/L), the specific inhibitor for necroptosis, and zVAD-fmk (20 μmol/L), the specific inhibitor for apoptosis, were added into cultures for inhibiting the occurrence of necroptosis and apoptosis. CCK-8 was performed to measure cell viability, flow cytometry was used to test the difference of apoptosis rate and necrosis rate between groups, and western-blot was used to detect the change of MAPK protein. Compared with blank control group, solvent control group, Nec-1 control group and zVAD-fmk control group, cell viabiligy of Al(3+) exposed group, Al(3+) plus Nec-1 group and Al(3+) plus zVAD-fmk group decreaced (P < 0.05). Compared with Al(3+) exposed group, cell viability of Al(3+) plus Nec-1 group and Al(3+) plus zVAD-fmk group increased (P < 0.05). Necrotic rate and apoptotic rate in Al(3+) exposed group, Al(3+) plus Nec-1 group and Al(3+) plus zVAD-fmk group obviously increased compared with blank control group, solvent control group, Nec-1 control group and zVAD-fmk control group (P < 0.05). Compared with Al(3+) exposed group, necrotic and apaptotic rate of Al(3+) plus zVAD-fmk group and Al(3+) plus Nec-1 group were statistically significant decreased (P < 0.05). Compared with blank control group, solvent control group, Nec-1 control group and zVAD-fmk control group, expression of p-p38 in Al(3+) exposed group, Al(3+) plus Nec-1 group and Al(3+) plus zVAD-fmk group increased obviously (P < 0.05), and expression of p-ERK decreased significantly (P < 0.05). Compared with Al(3+) exposed group, expression of p-p38 decreased (P < 0.05), but p-ERK increased in Al(3+) plus Nec-1 group (P < 0.05). The ERK and p38 MAPK signaling pathways are involved in aluminum-induced necroptosis in SH-SY5Y cells, but only ERK signaling pathway is involved in aluminum-induced apoptosis, and JNK signaling pathway is not involved in aluminum-induced cell death.

  12. 24 CFR 982.612 - Group home: State approval of group home.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-04-01

    ... 24 Housing and Urban Development 4 2012-04-01 2012-04-01 false Group home: State approval of group home. 982.612 Section 982.612 Housing and Urban Development REGULATIONS RELATING TO HOUSING AND URBAN... Types Group Home § 982.612 Group home: State approval of group home. A group home must be licensed...

  13. 24 CFR 982.612 - Group home: State approval of group home.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-04-01

    ... 24 Housing and Urban Development 4 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Group home: State approval of group home. 982.612 Section 982.612 Housing and Urban Development REGULATIONS RELATING TO HOUSING AND URBAN... Types Group Home § 982.612 Group home: State approval of group home. A group home must be licensed...

  14. 24 CFR 982.612 - Group home: State approval of group home.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-04-01

    ... 24 Housing and Urban Development 4 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Group home: State approval of group home. 982.612 Section 982.612 Housing and Urban Development Regulations Relating to Housing and Urban... Types Group Home § 982.612 Group home: State approval of group home. A group home must be licensed...

  15. 24 CFR 982.612 - Group home: State approval of group home.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-04-01

    ... 24 Housing and Urban Development 4 2014-04-01 2014-04-01 false Group home: State approval of group home. 982.612 Section 982.612 Housing and Urban Development REGULATIONS RELATING TO HOUSING AND URBAN... Types Group Home § 982.612 Group home: State approval of group home. A group home must be licensed...

  16. 24 CFR 982.612 - Group home: State approval of group home.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-04-01

    ... 24 Housing and Urban Development 4 2013-04-01 2013-04-01 false Group home: State approval of group home. 982.612 Section 982.612 Housing and Urban Development REGULATIONS RELATING TO HOUSING AND URBAN... Types Group Home § 982.612 Group home: State approval of group home. A group home must be licensed...

  17. Weak-link capacitor

    DOEpatents

    Dirk, Shawn M [Albuquerque, NM; Johnson, Ross S [Albuquerque, NM; Wheeler, David R [Albuquerque, NM; Bogart, Gregory R [Corrales, NM

    2011-06-07

    A process for making a dielectric material where a precursor polymer selected from poly(phenylene vinylene) polyacetylene, poly(p-phenylene), poly(thienylene vinylene), poly(1,4-naphthylene vinylene), and poly(p-pyridine vinylene) is energized said by exposure by radiation or increase in temperature to a level sufficient to eliminate said leaving groups contained within the precursor polymer, thereby transforming the dielectric material into a conductive polymer. The leaving group in the precursor polymer can be a chloride, a bromide, an iodide, a fluoride, an ester, an xanthate, a nitrile, an amine, a nitro group, a carbonate, a dithiocarbamate, a sulfonium group, an oxonium group, an iodonium group, a pyridinium group, an ammonium group, a borate group, a borane group, a sulphinyl group, or a sulfonyl group.

  18. Weak-link capacitor

    DOEpatents

    Dirk, Shawn M.; Johnson, Ross S.; Wheeler, David R.; Bogart, Gregory R.

    2013-04-23

    A process for making a dielectric material where a precursor polymer selected from poly(phenylene vinylene)polyacetylene, poly(p-phenylene), poly(thienylene vinylene), poly(1,4-naphthylene vinylene), and poly(p-pyridine vinylene) is energized said by exposure by radiation or increase in temperature to a level sufficient to eliminate said leaving groups contained within the precursor polymer, thereby transforming the dielectric material into a conductive polymer. The leaving group in the precursor polymer can be a chloride, a bromide, an iodide, a fluoride, an ester, an xanthate, a nitrile, an amine, a nitro group, a carbonate, a dithiocarbamate, a sulfonium group, an oxonium group, an iodonium group, a pyridinium group, an ammonium group, a borate group, a borane group, a sulphinyl group, or a sulfonyl group.

  19. Psychological need-satisfaction and subjective well-being within social groups.

    PubMed

    Sheldon, Kennon M; Bettencourt, B Ann

    2002-03-01

    Five candidate measures of psychological need-satisfaction were evaluated as predictors of high positive and low negative mood within the group, intrinsic motivation for group activities, and high commitment to the group. Consistent with self-determination theory (Deci & Ryan, 1991), personal autonomy and interpersonal relatedness both predicted positive outcomes. Consistent with optimal distinctiveness theory (Brewer, 1991), feeling included within the group, feeling personally distinctive within the group, and feeling that the group is distinctive compared to other groups, also predicted positive outcomes. Simultaneous regression analyses indicated that the five needs were differentially related to the different well-being indicators, and also suggested that group inclusion may be the most important need to satisfy within group contexts. Supplementary analyses showed that members of formal groups felt less personal autonomy, but more group distinctiveness, compared to informal group members.

  20. [Effects of electroacupuncture at "Weizhong" (BL 40) on regeneration and morphology in rats with bupivacaine-induced multifidus muscle injury].

    PubMed

    Peng, Yuanyuan; Liu, Tong; Chen, Yupei; Zou, Dehui; Zhang, Li

    2016-03-01

    To observe the intervention effect of electroacupuncture (EA) at "Weizhong" (BL 40) on rats with bupivacaine-induced multifidus muscle injury, so as to explore the action mechanism. A total of 72 rats were randomly divided into a control group, a model group, a Weizhong group and a Shenshu group, 18 rats in each group. Each group was again randomly divided into a 4-day subgroup, a 7-day subgroup and a 14-day subgroup, 6 rats in each subgroup. Rats in the model group, Weizhong group and Shenshu group were treated with intramuscular injection of 0.5% bupivacaine (BPVC) to establish the model of multifidus muscle injury. Rats in the Weizhong group and Shenshu group were treated with EA at "Weizhong" (BL 40) and "Shenshu" (BL 23), 20 min per treatment, once a day. Each subgroup was treated for 4 days, 7 days and 14 days respectively. Rats in the control group and model group were treated with immobilization. The morphology and cross sectional area (CSA) changes of multifidus with HE and Masson staining at different time points were observed; the expression of insulin like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) and myogenic differentiation antigen (MyoD) was measured by immunohistochemical method. After the modeling, there were significant morphology changes of multifidus at different time points, which was not fully recovered after 14 days. The morphological observation in the Weizhong group and Shenshu group was superior to that in the model group. At 7th day, the CSA in the Weizhong group was higher than that in the model group (P < 0.05); at 14th day, the CSA in the Weizhong group and Shenshu group was higher than that in the model group (P < 0.01, P < 0.05). At 4th day and 7th day, the expression of IGF-1 in the model group was higher than that in the control group (both P < 0.01); at 4th day, that in the Weizhong group was higher than that in the model group (P < 0.01), and that in the Weizhong group was higher than that in the Shenshu group (P < 0.05), and that in the Shenshu group was as higher than that in the model group (P < 0.05); at 14th day, that in the Shenshu group was higher than that in the model and Weizhong group (P < 0.01). At 4th day, the expression of MyoD in the Weizhong group and Shenshu group was higher than that in the model group (P < 0.01), which was more significant in the Weizhong group (P < 0.01). Electroacupuncture at "Weizhong" (BL 40) and "Shenshu" (BL 23) can both promote the regeneration of multifidus muscle injury. EA at "Weizhong" (BL 40) has a better effect at early phase, which may be related to the up-regulation of IGF-1 and MyoD and the completion of the proliferation of myoblast in advance.

  1. [The protective effect of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells carrying antioxidant gene superoxide dismutase on paraquat lung injury in mice].

    PubMed

    Liu, Hong; Ding, Yingwei; Hou, Yuehui; Zhao, Guangju; Lu, Yang; Chen, Xiao; Cai, Qiqi; Hong, Guangliang; Qiu, Qiaomeng; Lu, Zhongqiu

    2016-01-01

    To explore the possible mechanism and protective effect of BMSCs (bone mesenchymal stem cells) carrying superoxide dismutase (SOD) gene on mice with paraquat-induced acute lung injury. To establish the cell line of BMSCs bringing SOD gene, lentiviral vector bringing SOD gene was built and co-cultured with BMSCs. A total of 100 BALB/c mice were randomly divided into five groups, namely Control group, poisoning group (PQ group) , BMSCs therapy group (BMSC group) , BMSCs-Cherry therapy group (BMSC-Cherry group) , BMSCs-SOD therapy group (BMSC-SOD group) . PQ poisoning model was produced by stomach lavaged once with 1 ml of 25 mg/kg PQ solution, and the equal volume of normal saline (NS) was given to Control group mice instead of PQ. The corresponding BMSCs therapy cell lines were delivered to mice through the tail vein of mice 4h after PQ treatment.Five mice of each group were sacrificed 3 d, 7 d, 14 d and 21 days after corresponding BMSCs therapy cell lines administration, and lung tissues of mice were taken to make sections for histological analysis. The serum levels of glutathione (GSH) , malondialdehyde (MDA) , SOD, and the levels of transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in lung tissue were determined. The level of SOD was assayed by Westen-blot. Compared with Control group, the early (3 days) levels of SOD protein in lung tissue of PQ group obviously decreased, and the late (21 days) levels of SOD obviously increased, while in therapy groups, that was higher than that in PQ group, and the BMSCs-SOD group showed most obvious (all P<0.05) . Compared with Control group, the levels of plasma GSH and SOD of PQ group and each therapy group wae significantly lower than those in Control group, while in therapy groups, those were higher than those of PQ group, and the BMSCs-SOD group showed most obvious (all P<0.05) .Compared with Control group, the level of plasma MDA, TNF-α and TGF-β in PQ group and therapy groups were significantly higher, while in therapy groups, that was lower than that in PQ group, and the BMSCs-SOD group showed most obvious (all P<0.05) . Lung biopsy showed that, the degree of lung tissue damage in each therapy group obviously reduced. SOD is the key factor of the removal of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in cells, that can obviously inhibit the oxidative stress damage and the apoptosis induced by PQ, thus significantly increasing alveolar epithelial cell ability to fight outside harmful environment.

  2. Immunotherapy with dendritic cells and cytokine-induced killer cells for MDA-MB-231 breast cancer stem cells in nude mice

    PubMed Central

    Chen, Qiang; Cui, Xiao-Xu; Liang, Pei-Fen; Dou, Jin-Xia; Liu, Zi-Yan; Sun, Wen-Wen

    2016-01-01

    Objective: To compare the effects and safety of immunotherapy using different methods to load DC-CIK cells for MDA-MB-231 breast cancer stem cells. Methods: A breast cancer model was established in BALB/c nude mice using breast cancer stem cells. All mice were randomly divided into six groups, and each group had three nude mice: the blank control group, the DC-CIK group (group D), the MDA-MB-231 CSC whole-cell lysate DC-CIK group (group L-D), the MDA-MB-231 CSC RNA DC-CIK group (group R-D), the THP DC-CIK group (group T-D) and group THP. Nude mice in groups D, L-D, R-D and T-D were injected with CSCs; 4 days later, the mice were inoculated with 1 × 106 DC-CIK cells via the tail vein. This injection was repeated 2 times a week for three weeks. The mice in groups THP and T-D were injected with a 5 mg/Kg dose of THP chemotherapeutic agents via the tail vein the day before DC-CIK injection, which was repeated one time a week for three weeks. Nude mice in the blank control group were injected with normal saline. The weights and sizes of the tumors were measured after the mice were euthanized. The expression of c-Myc, a key proto-oncogene associated with the Akt signaling pathway, was detected with RT-PCR. Results: The tumor growth rates in each group were as follows: group L-D < group R-D < group D < group T-D < blank control group < group THP. The nude mice in groups L-D, R-D and D were normal, active and had a healthy appetite. The mice in groups T-D and THP were lethargic, less active and showed loss of appetite, and their caudal vein was easy to stimulate. The mice in the blank control group were sacrificed during the third week or when their tumors developed ulceration. Compared with the blank control group, c-Myc gene expression was reduced in the tumors of the five experimental groups. Conclusion: The results showed that DC-CIK cells stimulated by different methods were highly effect against MDA-MB-231 breast cancer stem cells in nude mice in all groups, especially in group L-D. DC-CIK immunotherapy may provide a new strategy for the clinical treatment of breast cancer. PMID:27508015

  3. Immunotherapy with dendritic cells and cytokine-induced killer cells for MDA-MB-231 breast cancer stem cells in nude mice.

    PubMed

    Chen, Qiang; Cui, Xiao-Xu; Liang, Pei-Fen; Dou, Jin-Xia; Liu, Zi-Yan; Sun, Wen-Wen

    2016-01-01

    To compare the effects and safety of immunotherapy using different methods to load DC-CIK cells for MDA-MB-231 breast cancer stem cells. A breast cancer model was established in BALB/c nude mice using breast cancer stem cells. All mice were randomly divided into six groups, and each group had three nude mice: the blank control group, the DC-CIK group (group D), the MDA-MB-231 CSC whole-cell lysate DC-CIK group (group L-D), the MDA-MB-231 CSC RNA DC-CIK group (group R-D), the THP DC-CIK group (group T-D) and group THP. Nude mice in groups D, L-D, R-D and T-D were injected with CSCs; 4 days later, the mice were inoculated with 1 × 10(6) DC-CIK cells via the tail vein. This injection was repeated 2 times a week for three weeks. The mice in groups THP and T-D were injected with a 5 mg/Kg dose of THP chemotherapeutic agents via the tail vein the day before DC-CIK injection, which was repeated one time a week for three weeks. Nude mice in the blank control group were injected with normal saline. The weights and sizes of the tumors were measured after the mice were euthanized. The expression of c-Myc, a key proto-oncogene associated with the Akt signaling pathway, was detected with RT-PCR. The tumor growth rates in each group were as follows: group L-D < group R-D < group D < group T-D < blank control group < group THP. The nude mice in groups L-D, R-D and D were normal, active and had a healthy appetite. The mice in groups T-D and THP were lethargic, less active and showed loss of appetite, and their caudal vein was easy to stimulate. The mice in the blank control group were sacrificed during the third week or when their tumors developed ulceration. Compared with the blank control group, c-Myc gene expression was reduced in the tumors of the five experimental groups. The results showed that DC-CIK cells stimulated by different methods were highly effect against MDA-MB-231 breast cancer stem cells in nude mice in all groups, especially in group L-D. DC-CIK immunotherapy may provide a new strategy for the clinical treatment of breast cancer.

  4. Clinical study of double dose of valsartan combined with tacrolimus in treatment of diabetic nephropathy.

    PubMed

    Jin, H; Zhang, H-N; Hou, X-L; Zhang, B; Wu, J; Zhang, H-B

    2016-01-01

    To investigate the clinical effect of double dose of valsartan combined with tacrolimus in the treatment of diabetic nephropathy (DN). HA total of 86 cases diagnosed with DN were selected from October 2013 to October 2014 in Zaozhuang Municipal Hospital, China. The study was approved by our hospital Ethics Committee and written consent was obtained from patients and their family members. Patients were randomly divided into three groups according to the sequence of admission, group A (conventional dose of valsartan group, n = 28 cases), group B (double dose of valsartan group, n = 29 cases) and group C (double dose of valsartan combined with tacrolimus group, n = 29). Clinical effects were compared by analyzing the renal function tests after 8 weeks. 24h urine protein, serum creatinine level of patients in group B and group C were significantly lower than that of group A. Those in group C was much lower. The glomerular filtration rates were significantly higher for group B and C than that of group A, and those in group C were much higher. The difference is statistically significant (p < 0.05). High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs CRP) and adiponectin levels of patients in group B and C of were significantly lower than that of group A and those in group C were much lower. The difference is statistically significant (p < 0.05). The high mobility group protein 1 (HMGB1) and renal tubular and interstitial damage index (TDI) of patients in B and C groups were significantly lower than those in the A group, and those in C group were significantly lower. The difference was statistically significant p < 0.05). The clinical effective rates of patients in group B and C were significantly higher than that in group A, and those of group C were much higher. The difference is statistically significant (p < 0.05). The recurrence rates of patients in group B and group C were significantly lower than those of group A and those in group C were much lower. The difference is statistically significant (p < 0.05). Patients in three groups showed no obvious drug complications. Double dose of valsartan combined with tacrolimus treatment of DN patients can improve clinical symptoms, reducing inflammation, inhibiting or even reversing the interstitial fibrosis, which will improve the curative effect and reduce the recurrence, as to provide a new theoretical basis for the clinical treatment of the disease.

  5. Effect of intravenous immunoglobulin on the function of Treg cells derived from immunosuppressed mice with Pseudomonas aeruginosa pneumonia.

    PubMed

    Li, Junlu; Chen, Tingsang; Yuan, Congcong; Zhao, Guoqiang; Xu, Min; Li, Xiaoyan; Cao, Jie; Xing, Lihua

    2017-01-01

    The present study aimed to investigate the effect of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) on regulatory T (Treg) cells derived from immunosuppressed mice with Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA) pneumonia. A total of 108 BALB/c mice were randomly divided into the following groups: control group (Control), immunosuppressed group (IS), PA pneumonia group (PA), PA pneumonia in immunosuppressed group (IS + PA), PA pneumonia with IVIG treatment in immunocompetent group (PA + IVIG) and PA pneumonia with IVIG treatment in immunosuppressed group (IS + PA + IVIG). Each group comprised 18 mice. The combined PA pneumonia in immunosuppressed model and the treatment models were established. The mice in each group were sacrificed at 4, 8, and 24 h time points. The general condition and pathological changes in the lung tissues of the mice were monitored. Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction was used to detect the forkhead box P3 (FOXP3) mRNA relative expression level in the lung tissues. The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to detect the serum concentration of active transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β). No inflammatory response were exhibited in the lung tissues of the mice in Control group and IS group, while varying degrees of acute lung injury were revealed in the mice in PA group, IS + PA group, PA + IVIG group and IS + PA + IVIG group. Lung tissue injury was most apparent at the 8 h time point, and it indicated the greatest effect in IS + PA group. Whereas tissue damages were alleviated in PA + IVIG group and IS + PA + IVIG group compared with IS + PA group. In addition, tissue damage lessened in PA + IVIG group compared with PA group and IS + PA + IVIG group. FOXP3 mRNA expression levels in the lung tissues and the serum concentration of TGF-β were lower in IS group, PA group, IS + PA group and IS + PA + IVIG group at the 4, 8 and 24 h time points, respectively compared with Control group. FOXP3 mRNA expression levels decreased in PA + IVIG group at the 4h time point and TGF-β serum concentrations decreased at the 4 and 8h time points compared with Control group, and subsequently increased. In the immunosuppred model with PA pneumonia, the immune system was greatly compromised. IVIG partially restored the immunosuppressed functions of Treg cells, suppressed the overactivated immune system and ameliorated the development of the disease.

  6. Determining an anti-Mullerian hormone cutoff level to predict clinical pregnancy following in vitro fertilization in women with severely diminished ovarian reserve.

    PubMed

    Merhi, Zaher; Zapantis, Athena; Berger, Dara S; Jindal, Sangita K

    2013-10-01

    Serum anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) levels estimate ovarian reserve. The purpose of this study was to identify a minimum serum AMH level that correlates with acceptable clinical pregnancy rate (CPR) in women with severe diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF). A historical cohort of severe DOR participants (age ≥35) with day 3 FSH of >10 ng/mL were included (n = 120). Participants were categorized into 3 groups: AMH <0.2 (Group 1, n = 38), AMH = 0.2-0.79 (Group 2, n = 57) and AMH ≥ 0.8 (Group 3, n = 25) ng/mL. The main outcome was CPR. The number of retrieved and mature oocytes, transferred embryos, spontaneous abortion (SAB) and live birth (LB) rates were also evaluated. Among the three groups, there was no difference in day 3 FSH and estradiol, total gonadotropins dose used per cycle, or LB. Participants in Group 1 were two years older than those in Group 2 and had significantly higher BMI than those in Groups 2 and 3. The three groups significantly differed in AFC (Group 1< Group 2< Group 3; p = 0.001) and cycle cancellation rate (Group 1> Group 2> Group 3; p = 0.006), and had a trend toward significance in SAB rate (Group 1> Group 2> Group 3; p = 0.06). Group 3 had significantly more retrieved and mature oocytes than Groups 1 or 2. Group 2 and 3 had significantly higher CPR per cycle start compared to Group 1. Although Group 2 had significantly fewer oocytes retrieved and mature oocytes than Group 3, CPR per cycle start for both groups was not different. ROC curve indicated that the point of maximal inflection between lower and higher CPR represents an AMH value of 0.2 ng/mL. AMH of 0.2 ng/mL appears to be a meaningful threshold for predicting CPR in women with severe DOR at our practice. This information can be crucial during the pre-cycle counseling of these women.

  7. Effect of in-home fortification of complementary feeding on intellectual development of Chinese children.

    PubMed

    Chen, Chun-Ming; Wang, Yu-Ying; Chang, Su-Ying

    2010-04-01

    To explore the effect of in-home fortification of complementary feeding on intellectual development of Chinese children aged below 24 months. One thousand and four hundred seventy eight children aged 4-12 months were recruited and divided into study groups (formula 1 group and formula 2 group) and control group. In two study groups, in addition to the usual complementary food, children were fed with a sachet of fortified food supplement each day. Protein and micronutrients were provided in formula 1 group. Formula 2 group had the same energy intake as the formula 1 group . In addition to measurement of physical growth and detection of hemoglobin level, Development Quotient (DQ) or Intelligence Quotient (IQ) was assessed. The DQ of children aged below 24 months was 97.2, 95.5, and 93.8 in formula 1 group, formula 2 group and control group, respectively, and the differences were statistically significant (P < 0.05). The DQ of children in formula 1 group, formula 2 group, and control group was 92.7, 90.4, and 88.3 respectively in the first follow up showing statistically significant differences (P < 0.05). And, DQ of children in formula 1 group, formula 2 group and control group were 96.7, 94.5, and 93.7 respectively in the second follow up, showing statistically significant differences (P < 0.05). Full-IQ of children in the formula 1 group was 3.1 and 4.5 points higher than that in formula 2 group and in control group respectively. Verbal IQ of children in the formula 1 group was 2.1 and 5 points higher than that in formula 2 group and control group respectively. Performance IQ was 2.5 and 3.1 points higher than that in formula 2 group and control group respectively. All above mentioned comparisons were statistically significant. Fortification of complementary feeding showed persistent effect on intelligence development of young children which could persist to 6 years of age. The critical time for correction of anemia could be under 18 months.

  8. Learning basic laparoscopic skills: a randomized controlled study comparing box trainer, virtual reality simulator, and mental training.

    PubMed

    Mulla, Mubashir; Sharma, Davendra; Moghul, Masood; Kailani, Obeda; Dockery, Judith; Ayis, Salma; Grange, Philippe

    2012-01-01

    The objectives of this study were (1) to compare different methods of learning basic laparoscopic skills using box trainer (BT), virtual reality simulator (VRS) and mental training (MT); and (2) to determine the most effective method of learning laparoscopic skills. Randomized controlled trial. King's College, London. 41 medical students were included in the study. After randomization, they were divided into 5 groups. Group 1 was the control group without training; group 2 was box trained; group 3 was also box trained with an additional practice session; group 4 was VRS trained; and group 5 was solely mentally trained. The task was to cut out a circle marked on a stretchable material. All groups were assessed after 1 week on both BT and VRS. Four main parameters were assessed, namely time, precision, accuracy, and performance. Time: On BT assessment, the box-trained group with additional practice group 3 was the fastest, and the mental-trained group 5 was the slowest. On VRS assessment, the time difference between group 3 and the control group 1 was statistically significant. Precision: On BT assessment, the box-trained groups 2 and 3 scored high, and mental trained were low on precision. On VRS assessment, the VRS-trained group ranked at the top, and the MT group was at the bottom on precision. Accuracy: On BT assessment, the box-trained group 3 was best and the mental-trained group was last. On VRS assessment, the VRS-trained group 4 scored high closely followed by box-trained groups 2 and 3. Performance: On BT assessment, the box-trained group 3 ranked above all the other groups, and the mental-trained group ranked last. On VRS assessment, the VRS group 4 scored best, followed closely by box-trained groups 2 and 3. The skills learned on box training were reproducible on both VRS and BT. However, not all the skills learned on VRS were transferable to BT. Furthermore, VRS was found to be a reliable and the most convenient method of assessment. MT alone cannot replace conventional training. Copyright © 2012 Association of Program Directors in Surgery. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  9. Frequencies and ethnic distribution of ABO and RhD blood groups in China: a population-based cross-sectional study.

    PubMed

    Liu, Jue; Zhang, Shikun; Wang, Qiaomei; Shen, Haiping; Zhang, Yiping; Liu, Min

    2017-12-03

    ABO and RhD blood groups are key factors affecting blood transfusion safety. The distribution of ABO and RhD blood groups varies globally, but limited data exist for ethnic distributions of these blood groups in Asian populations. We aimed to evaluate the distribution of ABO and RhD blood groups among Chinese ethnic groups. A population-based cross-sectional study. Data on ABO groups and ethnicities were obtained from the National Free Preconception Health Examination Project (NFPHEP) with participants from 220 counties of 31 provinces in China PARTICIPANTS: There were 3 832 034 participants aged 21-49 years who took part in the NFPHEP from January 2010 to December 2012 and were included in this study. The proportion of ABO and RhD blood groups among different ethnic groups was calculated. ABO and RhD blood distribution was significantly different among nine ethnic groups (P<0.001). Compared with other ethnic groups, the Yi group had more A phenotypes (34.0%), and the Manchu (33.7%) and Mongolian (33.3%) ethnic groups had more B phenotypes. The Zhuang group had the greatest proportion of O phenotypes (41.8%), followed by the Miao group (37.7%). AB phenotypes were more frequent in the Uygur ethnic group (10.6%) but lower in the Zhuang group (5.5%). Meanwhile, RhD negativity (RhD-) was greater in the Uygur group (3.3%) than in the Mongolian (0.3%) and Manchu ethnic groups (0.4%). O RhD- blood groups were more frequent in the Uygur group (0.8%) than in the other ethnic groups (0.1%-0.4%, P<0.001). ABO and RhD blood phenotypes vary across different ethnic groups in China. The diversity in the distribution of the ABO and RhD blood groups in different ethnic groups should be considered when developing rational and evidence-based strategies for blood collection and management. © Article author(s) (or their employer(s) unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2017. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.

  10. Anxiety and depression propensities in patients with acute toxic liver injury

    PubMed Central

    Suh, Jeong Ill; Sakong, Jeong Kyu; Lee, Kwan; Lee, Yong Kook; Park, Jeong Bae; Kim, Dong Joon; Seo, Yeon Seok; Lee, Jae Dong; Ko, Soon Young; Lee, Byung Seok; Kim, Seok Hyun; Kim, Byung Seok; Kim, Young Seok; Lee, Heon Ju; Kim, In Hee; Sohn, Joo Hyun; Kim, Tae Yeob; Ahn, Byung Min

    2013-01-01

    AIM: To investigate anxiety and depression propensities in patients with toxic liver injury. METHODS: The subjects were divided into three groups: a healthy control group (Group 1, n = 125), an acute non-toxic liver injury group (Group 2, n = 124), and a group with acute toxic liver injury group caused by non-commercial herbal preparations (Group 3, n = 126). These three groups were compared and evaluated through questionnaire surveys and using the Hospital Anxiety-Depression Scale (HADS), Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), and the hypochondriasis scale. RESULTS: The HADS anxiety subscale was 4.9 ± 2.7, 5.0 ± 3.0 and 5.6 ± 3.4, in Groups 1, 2, and 3, respectively. The HADS depression subscale in Group 3 showed the most significant score (5.2 ± 3.2, 6.4 ± 3.4 and 7.2 ± 3.4 in Groups 1, 2, and 3, respectively) (P < 0.01 vs Group 1, P < 0.05 vs Group 2). The BAI and BDI in Group 3 showed the most significant score (7.0 ± 6.3 and 6.9 ± 6.9, 9.5 ± 8.6 and 8.8 ± 7.3, 10.7 ± 7.2 and 11.6 ± 8.5 in Groups 1, 2, and 3, respectively) (BAI: P < 0.01 vs Group 1, P < 0.05 vs Group 2) (BDI: P < 0.01 vs Group 1 and 2). Group 3 showed a significantly higher hypochondriasis score (8.2 ± 6.0, 11.6 ± 7.5 and 13.1 ± 6.5 in Groups 1, 2, and 3, respectively) (P < 0.01 vs Group 1, P < 0.05 vs Group 2). CONCLUSION: Psychological factors that present vulnerability to the temptation to use alternative medicines, such as herbs and plant preparations, are important for understanding toxic liver injury. PMID:24379633

  11. The effects of intravenous, enteral and combined administration of glutamine on malnutrition in sepsis: a randomized clinical trial.

    PubMed

    Koksal, Guniz Meyancı; Erbabacan, Emre; Tunali, Yusuf; Karaoren, Gulsah; Vehid, Suphi; Oz, Huseyin

    2014-01-01

    Our aim was to compare the effects of intravenous, enteral, and enteral plus intravenous supplemented glutamine on plasma transferrin, nitrogen balance, and creatinine/height index in septic patients with malnutrition. Blood and urine samples were collected for transferrin, urea and creatinine measurements. Samples, SOFA score and protein-calorie intake values were repeated on days 7 and 15. Patients (n:120) were randomly divided into 4 groups. Group I received 30 g/day IV glutamine, group II received 30 g/day enteral glutamine, group III received 15 g/day IV and 15 g/day enteral glutamine. Group IV received only enteral feeding as a control group. Transferrin levels decreased in group IV (p<0.01 0-7 days, p<0.01 7-15 days, p<0.01 0-15 days). Nitrogen balance levels were highest in group IV when compared with group I (p<0.05, p<0.001), group II (p<0.001), and group III (p<0.05, p<0.001) on days 7-15. Creatinine/height indexes increased in group I (p<0.001), group II (p<0.001), group III (p<0.001), and group IV (p<0.05) on day 15. In group III the creatinine/height index was higher than in groups I and II (p<0.05). In group IV, creatinine/height index was lower than in group I (p<0.01) and group II (p<0.001). Protein-calorie intake in group IV was higher than others on day 7 (p<0.05). SOFA scores of group IV were higher than the other groups on day 15 (p<0.05). This study demonstrated, that combined route of gln supplementation resulted in the most positive outcome to transferrin, creatine/height index and nitrogen balance (on days 7 and 15) during the catabolic phase of septic patients with malnutrition.

  12. [Clinical observation of post-herpetic neuralgia treated with TCM herbal cupping therapy].

    PubMed

    Wu, Xi; Hu, Hui; Guo, Liang; Wang, Hui

    2013-02-01

    To compare the difference in the efficacy on post-herpetic neuralgia among TCM herbal cupping therapy, Chinese medicine thermal compressing therapy and mecobalamine. Fifty-seven cases were randomized into a TCM herbal cupping group, a thermal compressing group and a western medicine group, 19 cases in each one. The oral administration of ibuprofen was applied in every group. In the herbal cupping group, the bamboo cups soaked in the boiled Chinese herbal decoction were sucked on the most significant painful area. In the thermal compressing group, the towel soaked in the boiled Chinese herbal decoction was compressed on the most significant painful area. In the medication group, the muscular injection of mecobalamine was adopted. The treatment was given once a day, for 2 weeks totally in each group. SF-MPQ score and clinical efficacy before and after treatment were observed in each group. The remarkable effective rates were 78.9% (15/19), 36.8% (7/19) and 5.3% (1/19) in the TCM herbal cupping group, thermal compressing group and western medicine group separately. The efficacy in the TCM herbal cupping group was significantly superior to the thermal compressing group and western medicine group (all P < 0.05), and that in the thermal compressing group was superior to the western medicine group (P < 0.05). After treatment, SF-MPQ score was reduced significantly in each group (P < 0.001, P < 0.01). The score in the herbal cupping group was reduced more significantly as compared with the thermal compressing group and western medicine group (all P < 0.01). The improvement in pain in the thermal compressing group was superior to the western medicine group (P < 0.01). TCM herbal cupping therapy achieves the superior efficacy for post-herpetic neuralgia and relieves pain effectively of the patients, which is more advantageous than CM herbal thermal compressing therapy and Mecobalamine.

  13. [Expression of PARP/NF-κB and intervention effect of 5-AIQ/PDTC in SAP rats with adrenal damage].

    PubMed

    Yang, Bo; Guo, Wen-Yi; Yu, Jia; Zhao, Kai-liang; Shi, Qiao; Zuo, Teng; Wang, Wei-xing

    2013-10-15

    To explore the expression of poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase/nuclear factor-κB (PARP/NF-κB) and intervention effect of 5-aminoisoquinolinone/pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate (5-AIQ/PDTC) in severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) rats with adrenal damage. The primarily cultured adrenocortical cells were quantitatively divided into control group (SO), pancreatitis group (SAP), PDTC drug control group (SO+PDTC), PDTC intervention group (SAP+PDTC), 5-AIQ drug control group (SO+ 5-AIQ) and 5-AIQ intervention group (SAP+5-AIQ). The SAP and 2 intervention groups were stimulated with the sera of SAP rats. Then corresponding drugs were added and culture continued for 12 hours. The corticosterone levels and PARP/NF-κB expression were observed for each group. Adrenal cells in vitro cultured were round or oval, had secretory granules and could be stained by 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase antibody. The adherence rate was 60% after 48-hour culturing. The corticosterone level of SAP group was significantly lower than that of SO group [ (216.4 ± 15.7) vs (294.8 ± 16.3) µg/L, P < 0.05]. The 2 intervention groups were (258.6 ± 19.0) and (264.3 ± 18.2) µg/L respectively. These two values were higher than those of SAP group (P < 0.05), but lower than those of SO group (P < 0.05). With regards to the expression of PARP-1, the SAP and PDTC intervention groups were higher than SO group while 5-AIQ intervention group was significantly lower than SAP and PDTC intervention groups, but higher than SO and drug control groups. The expression of NF-κB in SAP group was higher than that in SO group. Two intervention groups were lower than SAP group, but higher than SO and drug control groups. The pathway of PARP/NF-κB participates in adrenal damage of SAP rats. To a certain extent, the uses of 5-AIQ and PDTC may alleviate adrenal damage.

  14. [Effects of warm needling moxibustion on knee cartilage and morphology in rats with knee osteoarthritis].

    PubMed

    Zhang, Yongliang; Mi, Yiqun; Gang, Jiahong; Wang, Huamin

    2016-02-01

    To observe the effects of warm needling moxibustion on body mass, knee cartilage andmorphology in rats with knee osteoarthritis (KOA). Forty SD rats were randomly divided into a normalgroup, a model group, a medication group and a warm needling group, 10 rats in each one. Except the normalgroup, the rats in the remaining three groups were injected with papain to establish the model of KOA. After themodeling, rats in the model group did not receive any treatment; rats in the warm needling group were treated withwarm needling moxibustion at bilateral "Xiqian"; rats in the medication group were treated with intragastric administration of meloxicam; rats in the normal group were treated with 0. 9% NaCl solution (identical dose as medication group) and immobilized as the warm needling group. The treatment was given once a day for consecutive20 days. The body mass, scale of knee cartilage and morphological changes were observed in each group after'treatment. The increasing of body mass in the medication group and warm needling group was faster than!that in the model group, but slower than that in the normal group (all P<0. 05); the difference between medication group and warm needling group was not statistically significant (P>0. 05). The scale of knee cartilage in thewarm needling group and medication group was significantly lower than that in the model group (both P<0. 05),while the scale in the warm needling group was lower than that in the medication group (P<. 05). Regarding theknee morphology under micro-CT, the relief of knee degeneration and improvement of knee recovery in the warm needlinggroup were superior to those in the medication group. The warm needling moxibustion could effectively reduce the knee pain, improve the recovery of knee cartilage, which is a safe and effective treatment.

  15. Comparative analysis of endothelial cell loss following phacoemulsification in pupils of different sizes.

    PubMed

    Maggon, Rakesh; Bhattacharjee, Raghudev; Shankar, Sandeep; Kar, Rajesh Chandra; Sharma, Vivek; Roy, Shyamal

    2017-12-01

    To compare Endothelial cell(EC) loss following Phacoemulsification (PKE) in pupils of different sizes. A prospective double masked observational study in which a total of 150 eyes of 150 patients between 50 & 70 years of age with senile cataract of nuclear sclerosis grade II were enrolled. Patients were allocated into three groups of 50 eyes each in Group A (pupil size <5 mm), Group B (pupil size 5-7 mm) and Group C (pupil size >7 mm). Pupillary size was measured by determining the height of slit on slit-lamp biomicroscope examination. PKE was done by the same expert surgeon using vertical chop technique and a foldable intraocular lens was implanted in the capsular bag. Corneal EC count and pachymetry were performed twice and average of 2 readings was taken for the purpose of this study. Measurements were taken preoperatively and postoperatively on day 1, day 7 and day 30. The mean EC count loss on postoperative day 1 in Group A was 19.45%, Group B 14.89%, Group C 10.19% with statistical significant difference between Group A and Group B, as also Group A and Group C. The difference was not significant between Group B and Group C, though there was a fall in EC count in Group C as well. Increase in corneal thickness on postoperative day 1 in group A was 5.43%, Group B 3.55%, Group C 2.14% with statistical significant difference between Group A and Group B, as also Group A and Group C with no difference in Group B and Group C. PKE done in eyes with maximal pupillary dilatation of <5 mm causes a greater EC loss and results in thicker corneas postoperatively as compared to eyes with pupillary dilatation of >5 mm at the end of one month.

  16. [Effect of wound healing of orthopedic surgery in human immunodeficiency virus infected patients with perioperative adjuvant treatments].

    PubMed

    Sun, Sheng; Zhang, Yaoshen; Zhang, Qiang; Li, Xin; Wan, Gang; Zhao, Changsong; Cai, Juan; Yuan, Zheng

    2014-08-05

    To observe the early wound healing of orthopedic surgery in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) carrier patients treated with optimized auxiliary treatments. During a period of 48 months, according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria plus CD4⁺ T lymphocyte count, the patients scheduled for orthopedic surgery (including HIV positive and negative) were divided into group A (HIV positive, CD4<500/ml) with optimized auxiliary treatments, group B (HIV positive, CD4 ≥ 500/ml) and group C (HIV negative) on prophylactic antibiotic therapy alone. Wound healing of 3 groups were observed postoperatively. The rates of clinical wound infection were compared among 3 groups. A total of 471 cases (n = 79, HIV+; n = 392, HIV-) were selected due to fresh fracture (n = 544, 77.28%), fracture of spine (n = 57, 12.31%), mal-union (n = 13, 2.76%), aseptic necrosis (n = 15, 3.18%) and osteoarthritis (n = 21, 4.46%). During surgery, early open reduction and plate screw internal fixation (group A, n = 23; group B, n = 21; group C, n = 274); pedicle screw internal fixation (group A, n = 5; group B, n = 6; group C, n = 47); total joint replacement (group A, n = 3; group B, n = 4; group C, n = 8); interlocking intramedullary nail fixation (group A, n = 7; group B, n = 4; group C, n = 35) and other operations (group A, n = 3; group B, n = 3; group C, n = 28). For infections, 2 cases (4.88%) were observed in group A, 3 (5.26%) in group B and 26 (6.63%) in group C. The differences were statistically insignificant. Reasonable perioperative adjuvant treatments, including use of antibiotic, nutritional supports, immunomodulators and anti-retroviral drugs, are offered to HIV infected patients undergoing orthopedic surgery. Their risks of postoperative wound infection may be controlled.

  17. The antifertility effectiveness of copper/low-density polyethylene nanocomposite and its influence on the endometrial environment in rats.

    PubMed

    Liu, He-Fang; Liu, Zi-Long; Xie, Chang-Sheng; Yu, Jing; Zhu, Chang-Hong

    2007-02-01

    The study was conducted to investigate the antifertility effectiveness of copper/low-density polyethylene nanocomposite (nano-Cu/LDPE) and its influence on the endometrial environment in rats. One hundred and seventy sexually mature female Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into five groups: sham-operated control group (SO group, n=10), bulk copper group (Cu group, n=40), LDPE group (n=40), and nano-Cu/LDPE groups I (n=40) and II (n=40). Twenty rats in each group except for the SO group were mated with male rats of proven fertility, from 30 days after insertion, and the antifertility rates (ATs) were observed at Day 11 of pregnancy. The concentrations of prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)) and tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) in the endometrium of the remaining rats in each group were measured by using ELISA at the 30th and 60th day after insertion, respectively. ATs in the Cu group and nano-Cu/LDPE groups I and II (100%) were significantly higher than those in the LDPE group (p<.05). Compared with those in the SO group, the concentrations of PGE(2) and tPA in all experimental groups except for PGE(2) levels in the LDPE group were significantly increased at Day 30 after insertion, and these parameters in the nano-Cu/LDPE groups were significantly lower than in the Cu group (p<.05). At Day 60 after insertion, tPA levels were still higher in the Cu and nano-Cu/LDPE groups, but there was no difference in PGE(2) levels in all groups except for the Cu group. Nano-Cu/LDPE exhibits satisfactory contraceptive efficacy with less influence on the endometrium PGE(2) and tPA levels.

  18. Effects of ischemic preconditioning and iloprost on myocardial ischemia-reperfusion damage in rats.

    PubMed

    Ay, Yasin; Kara, Ibrahim; Aydin, Cemalettin; Ay, Nuray Kahraman; Teker, Melike Elif; Senol, Serkan; Inan, Bekir; Basel, Halil; Uysal, Omer; Zeybek, Rahmi

    2013-01-01

    This study investigates the effects of cardiac ischemic preconditioning and iloprost on reperfusion damage in rats with myocardial ischemia/reperfusion. 38 male Wistar Albino rats used in this study were divided into 5 groups. The control group (Group 1) (n=6), ischemia/reperfusion (IR) group (Group 2) (n=8), cardiac ischemic preconditioning (CIP) group (Group 3) (n=8), iloprost (ILO) group (Group 4) (n=8), and cardiac ischemic preconditioning + iloprost (CIP+ILO) group (Group 5) (n=8). Pre-ischemia, 15 minutes post-ischemia, 45 minutes post-reperfusion, mean blood pressure (MBP), and heart rates (HR) were recorded. The rate-pressure product (RPP) was calculated. Post-reperfusion plasma creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), troponin (cTn) vlaues, and infarct size/area at risk (IS/AAR) were calculated from myocardial tissue samples. Arrhythmia and ST segment elevations were evaluated during the ischemia and reperfusion stages. Although the MBP, HR, RPP values, biochemical parameters of CK-MB and LDH levels, IS/AAR rates, ST segment elevation values were found to be similar in CIP and CIP+ILO groups and the IR and ILO groups (p>0.05), CIP-containing group values had a positively meaningful difference (p<0.05) compared with the IR and ILO group. While mild-moderate findings of damage were observed in Group 3 and Group 5, severely findings of damage were releaved in Group 2 and Group 4. The arrhythmia score of the ILO group was meaningfully lower (F: 41.4, p<0.001) than the IR group. We can conclude that the effects of myocardial reperfusion damage can be reduced by cardiac ischemic preconditioning, intravenous iloprost reduced the incidence of ventricular arrhythmia associated with reperfusion, and its use with CIP caused no additional changes.

  19. [Osteogenic potential of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells from ovariectomied osteoporotic rat].

    PubMed

    Li, Dong-ju; Ge, Dong-xia; Wu, Wen-chao; Wu, Jiang; Li, Liang

    2005-05-01

    To investigate the difference of osteogenic potential of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) between healthy rats and osteoporotic rats. We established the animal model of osteoporosis by performing ovariectom on the 3-month-old female Sprague-Dawley rats. Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells(MSCs) were isolated from the rats of control group and of ovariectomized (ovx) group by means of the density-gradient centrifugation method, and the 3rd-4th passage MSCs were used in all the experiments. The experiments comprised 4 groups: (1) Marrow mesenchymal stem cells control group (MSCs control group); (2) Marrow mesenchymal stem cells ovx group (MSCs ovx group); (3) Osteogenesis induction control group (OSI control group); (4) Osteogenesis induction ovx group (OSI ovx group). Cell cycle and proliferation index (PI) of MSCs were detected by flow cytometry. The expression of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) was detected by dynamics method with substrate of phosphoric acid para-Nitro benzene. The levels of osteocalcin were detected with the isotope labelling method. (1) PI of MSCs was lower in MSCs ovx group than in MSCs control group. (2) The expression of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) was much higher in OSI control group than in the MSCs control group; the expression of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) was much higher in the OSI control group than in OSI ovx group after 7-day and 14-day osteogenic induction. (3) The level of osteocalcin was much higher in the OSI control group than in the MSCs control group after 14-day, 21-day, 28-day osteogenic induction. The level of osteocalcin was much higher in the OSI control group than in the OSI ovx group. Both the proliferative potential and the osteogenic potential of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) from the ovariectomized osteoporotic rat are decreased.

  20. The effect of captopril and losartan on the electrophysiology of myocardial cells of myocardial ischemia rats.

    PubMed

    Shi, Xiangmin; Shan, Zhaoling; Yuan, Hongtao; Guo, Hongyang; Wang, Yutang

    2014-01-01

    This study aims to investigate the effect of captopril and losartan on the electrophysiology of myocardial cells parameters in ventricular vulnerable period and effective refractory period of myocardial ischemia rats. 96 wistar rats were enrolled in the study and divided into six groups: Captopril myocardial ischemia group, losartan myocardial ischemia group, myocardial ischemia control group, captopril normal group, losartan normal group and normal control group (n=16). We observed morphological changes of myocardial tissue in each group. The cardiac electrophysiological parameters in effective refractory period of each group were measured. Creatine kinase (CK), alanine aminotransferase (GOT), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), the expression of Cardiotrophin 1 (CT-1) and malonaldehyde (MDA) were detected. Compared the losartan and captopril group with the control group, (P<0.05). Losartan and captopril can shorten the ventricular vulnerable period of the normal group and ischemic group. There was no interaction effect between losartan and captopril group and the acute myocardial ischemia group. The effect of losartan and captopril on time window in ventricular vulnerable period showed that compared with the control group (P<0.05). Losartan and captopril had a significant effect on prolonged effective refractory period of normal and ischemic rats. There was no interaction effect between losartan and captopril group and the acute myocardial ischemia group. Compared with the myocardial ischemia control group, CK, GOT, LDH and MDA decreased in captopril and losartan myocardial ischemia groups (P<0.05). Losartan and captopril had a significant effect on prolonged effective refractory period and shorten ventricular vulnerable period, they can also effectively prevent arrhythmias.

  1. [Analysis of the characteristic of pharyngeal paraesthesia patients by high resolution manometry].

    PubMed

    Gu, Yun; Qian, Wei

    2015-09-01

    To discuss the pressure changing characteristics of upper esophageal sphincter (UES), lower esophageal sphincter (LES) and the esophagus kinetic characteristics of pharyngeal paraesthesia patients. To take high resolution manometry in 44 cases of pharyngeal paraesthesia patients and 23 normal subjects separately. According to the RSI score,the 44 patients were divided into group A (the group without reflux, RSI < 13, n = 25) and group B (the group with reflux, RSI ≥ 13, n = 19). The UES average resting pressure and average residual pressure of patients group were higher than the control group (P < 0.05); The UES average resting pressure and average residual pressure of group B were higher than group A (P < 0.05); The LES average resting pressure and average residual pressure of group B were lower than group A and the control group (P < 0.05); The comparison of LES average resting pressure and average residual pressure between group A and the control group was not statistically significant (P > 0.05). The esophagus DCI of group B was lower than that of group A and control group (P < 0.05). The esophagus DCI comparison between group A and control group was not statistically significant (P > 0.05). The pharyngeal paresthesia symptoms of'patients was associated with the increasing of UES pressure. The pharyngeal paresthesia symptoms of group with reflux was related to low pressure of LES and high pressure of UES. The last part of esophagus of group with reflux had obstacles in powers, which weaken the peristalsis and declined the ability to clear the bolus and gastric reflux material.

  2. [Expression and significance of tumor necrosis factor alpha, matrix metalloproteinase 2 and collagen in skin tissue of pressure ulcer of rats].

    PubMed

    Wang, X H; Mao, T T; Pan, Y Y; Xie, H H; Zhang, H Y; Xiao, J; Jiang, L P

    2016-03-01

    To observe the expressions of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP-2) and collagen in local skin tissue of pressure ulcer of rats, and to explore the possible mechanism of the pathogenesis of pressure ulcer. Forty male SD rats were divided into normal control group, 3 d compression group, 5 d compression group, 7 d compression group, and 9 d compression group according to the random number table, with 8 rats in each group. The rats in normal control group did not receive any treatment, whereas the rats in the latter 4 groups were established the deep tissue injury model (3 d compression group) and pressure ulcer model (the other 3 groups) on the gracilis muscle on both hind limbs using a way of cycle compression of ischemia-reperfusion magnet. The rats in 3 d compression group received only three cycles of compression, while the compressed skin of the rats in 5 d compression group, 7 d compression group, and 9 d compression group were cut through and received pressure to 5, 7 and 9 cycles after three cycles of compression, respectively. The rats in 3 d compression group were sacrificed immediately after receiving compression for 3 d (the rats in normal control group were sacrificed at the same time), and the rats in the other 3 groups were respectively sacrificed after receiving compression for 5, 7, and 9 d, and the skin tissue on the central part of gracilis muscle on both hind limbs were harvested. The morphology of the skin tissue was observed with HE staining. The expression of collagen fiber was observed with Masson staining. The expressions of collagen type Ⅳ and MMP-2 were detected by immunohistochemical method. The expressions of TNF-α and phosphorylated NF kappa B (NF-κB) were determined by Western blotting. Data were processed with one-way analysis of variance and LSD test. (1) In normal control group, the skin tissue of rats was stratified squamous epithelium, with the clear skin structure, and there was no obvious infiltration of inflammatory cells. In 3 d compression group, the skin layers of rats were clear, with quite a few fibroblasts, and the inflammatory cells began to infiltrate. In 5 d compression group, 7 d compression group, and 9 d compression group, the epidermis of rats thickened, with the number of fibroblasts reduced, and the infiltration of inflammatory cells enhanced with the compressed time prolonging. (2) In normal control group, the collagen fibers in skin tissue of rats were arranged in order, with rich content. In 3 d compression group, the collagen fibers in skin tissue of rats were arranged orderly, with high expression level, which was similar to that in normal control group (P>0.05). In 5 d compression group and 7 d compression group, the collagen fibers in skin tissue of rats were arranged in disorder, with the expression level gradually reduced, which were significantly lower than that in normal control group (with P values below 0.01). In 9 d compression group, the expression of collagen fiber in skin tissue of rats was a little higher than that in 7 d compression group, but it was still significantly lower than that in normal control group (P<0.01). (3) The expressions of collagen type Ⅳ in skin tissue of rats in normal control group, 3 d compression group, 5 d compression group, 7 d compression group, and 9 d compression group were respectively 11.0±2.8, 9.0±1.7, 8.3±2.8, 5.1±1.8, and 5.4±1.2. The expression of collagen type Ⅳ in skin tissue of rats in 3 d compression group was similar to that in normal control group (P>0.05). The expressions of collagen type Ⅳ in skin tissue of rats in 5 d compression group, 7 d compression group, and 9 d compression group were significantly lower than that in normal control group (P<0.05 or P<0.01). The expression of MMP-2 in skin tissue of rats in 3 d compression group was similar to that in normal control group (P>0.05). The expressions of MMP-2 in skin tissue of rats in 5 d compression group, 7 d compression group, and 9 d compression group were significantly higher than that in normal control group (P<0.05 or P<0.01). (4) The expression of TNF-α in skin tissue of rats in normal control group was 0.48±0.11, and the expressions of TNF-α in skin tissue of rats in 3 d compression group, 5 d compression group, 7 d compression group, and 9 d compression group were respectively 0.84±0.08, 1.13±0.19, 1.34±0.16, and 1.52±0.23, which were all significantly higher than that in normal control group (with P values below 0.01). The expressions of phosphorylated NF-κB in skin tissue of rats in 3 d compression group and 9 d compression group were similar to that in normal control group (with P values above 0.05), and the expressions of phosphorylated NF-κB in skin tissue of rats in 5 d compression group and 7 d compression group were significantly higher than that in normal control group (P<0.05 or P<0.01). The high expression of MMP-2 and reduction of collagen induced by inflammatory reaction mediated by the high expression of TNF-α in local skin tissue of pressure ulcer of rats may be one of the important reasons for the formation of pressure ulcer.

  3. Modified visual field trend analysis.

    PubMed

    De Moraes, Carlos Gustavo V; Ritch, Robert; Tello, Celso; Liebmann, Jeffrey M

    2011-01-01

    Visual field trend analysis can be influenced by outlying values that may disproportionately affect estimation of the rate of change. We tested a modified approach to visual field trend analysis to minimize this problem. Automated pointwise linear regression (PLR) was used in glaucoma patients with ≥13 SITA-Standard 24-2 VF tests in either eye. In the control group (Group A), conventional PLR using the entire set of VF tests was carried out. In the other 3 groups (study groups), a truncated analysis was done using only the first and last 3 (Group B), first and last 4 (Group C), or first and last 5 (Group D) VF tests. We compared the global slopes (dB/y), number of eyes experiencing significant progression, and significant improvement between groups. Ninety eyes of 90 patients were evaluated. The mean number±SD of VF tests was 15.7±2.6, spanning 7.8±1.7 years. The study groups showed similar global rates of VF change as the control group (Group A=-0.48±0.5, Group B=-0.48±0.6, Group C=-0.48±0.6, Group D=-0.48±0.5 dB/y, P>0.05), and a similar number of eyes reaching a progression endpoint (Group A=53, Group B=52, Group C=49, Group D=53, P>0.05). However, Group B showed fewer eyes presenting VF improvement (false-positives). The modified VF trend-analysis showed greater specificity than conventional PLR in a population with glaucoma.

  4. Plagiarism and the medical fraternity: a study of knowledge and attitudes.

    PubMed

    Shirazi, Bushra; Jafarey, Aamir M; Moazam, Farhat

    2010-04-01

    To assess knowledge and perceptions of plagiarism in medical students and faculty of private and public medical colleges in Karachi. A questionnaire based study was conducted on groups of 4th year medical students and medical faculty members. Group A consisted of medical students while group B comprised faculty members. The questionnaire contained 19 questions that assessed knowledge and attitudes of the respondents regarding various aspects of plagiarism. The total number of medical students (Group A) studied was 114 while the faculty number (Group B) was 82. Nineteen percent Group A and 22% of Group B displayed the correct knowledge about referencing materials from the internet or other sources. Seventeen percent of respondents in Group A and 16% in Group B had correct information about the use of quotation marks when incorporating verbatim phrases from external sources. Regarding Power Point presentations, 53% of respondents from Group A and 57% from Group B knew the appropriate requirements. There was a statistically significant difference among the two groups regarding the issue of self plagiarism, with 63% of respondents in Group A and 88% in Group B demonstrating correct understanding. Both groups showed a general lack of understanding regarding copyright rules and 18% of Group A and 23% of respondents in Group B knew the correct responses. Eighteen percent of respondents in Group A and 27% in Group B claimed to have never indulged in this practice. There is a general lack of information regarding plagiarism among medical students and faculty members.

  5. Effects of Urtica dioica on hepatic ischemia‐reperfusion injury in rats

    PubMed Central

    Kandis, Hayati; Karapolat, Sami; Yildirim, Umran; Saritas, Ayhan; Gezer, Suat; Memisogullari, Ramazan

    2010-01-01

    OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the effects of Urtica dioica on hepatic ischemia‐reperfusion injury. METHODS: Thirty adult male Wistar albino rats were divided into three groups: sham group (group 1), control group (group 2), and Urtica dioica group (group 3). All the rats were exposed to hepatic ischemia for 60 min, followed by 60 min of reperfusion. In group 2, a total of 2 ml/kg 0.9% saline solution was given intraperitoneally. In group 3, a total of 2 ml/kg Urtica dioica was given intraperitoneally. At the end of the procedure, liver tissue and blood samples were taken from all rats. Serum aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, lactate dehydrogenase, ceruloplasmin, catalase, paraoxonase, arylesterase, and lipid hydroperoxide levels were measured. Liver tissue histopathologies were also evaluated by light microscopy. RESULTS: Serum aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase and lactate dehydrogenase levels were significantly higher in group 2 than in group 1, and significantly lower in group 3 than in group 2. Also, group 2 had higher serum lipid hydroperoxides and ceruloplasmin levels but lower catalase, paraoxonase, and arylesterase levels than group 1. In group 3, serum lipid hydroperoxides and ceruloplasmin levels were significantly lower, and catalase, paraoxonase, and arylesterase levels were higher than those in group 2. Histopathological examination showed that liver tissue damage was significantly decreased in group 3 compared with group 2. CONCLUSIONS: Urtica dioica has a protective effect on the liver in hepatic ischemia‐reperfusion‐injured rats. PMID:21340227

  6. Protective effects of udenafil citrate, piracetam and dexmedetomidine treatment on testicular torsion/detorsion-induced ischaemia/reperfusion injury in rats.

    PubMed

    Tuglu, D; Yuvanc, E; Ozan, T; Bal, F; Yilmaz, E; Atasoy, P; Kisa, U; Batislam, E

    2016-08-01

    The aim of this study was to investigate the antioxidant properties of udenafil citrate (1.4 mg kg(-1) -2.8 mg kg(-1) ), dexmedetomidine 25 μg kg(-1) and piracetam 200 mg kg(-1) administered on ipsilateral/contralateral testes after ischaemia in a rat model of testicular torsion/detorsion (T/D) and define its protective effect histologically. Fifty-six Wistar albino rats were included and randomly assigned into 6 groups. No intervention was performed in control group (Group 1, n = 8) and in torsion/detorsion group, (Group 2, n = 8). Udenafil 1.4 mg kg(-1) was given to torsion/detorsion group (Group 3, n = 10), udenafil 2.8 mg kg(-1) was given to torsion/detorsion group (Group 4, n = 10), piracetam 200 mg kg(-1) was given to torsion/detorsion group (Group 5, n = 10) and dexmedetomidine 25 μg kg(-1) was given to torsion/detorsion group (Group 6, n = 10) intraperitoneally after 60 mins of testicular torsion. Biochemical and histopathological testicular injury were evaluated. When the tissue was examined by TOS values, Group 3, Group 4 and Group 5 were significantly lower than Group 2. In contrary Group 6 values were significantly higher than Group 2. The increasing doses of udenafil demonstrated antioxidant properties on the testis tissue and histopathological that protects the testicles. © 2015 Blackwell Verlag GmbH.

  7. The Origins and Strategic Objectives of the Al-Qaeda Organization in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM)

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2009-12-01

    Group Islamic Army (the Armed Islamic Group) GSPC Salafist Group for Preaching and Combat GICM Groupe Islamique de Combat (Moroccan Islamic Combat...the Armed Islamic Group (GIA, Groupe Islamique Armé), emerged. The GIA was a group made up of former militants who always rejected the idea of...French acronym GICM: Groupe Islamique Combatant au Maroc), the Libyan Islamic Fighting Group LIFG . This analysis will determine the nature of the

  8. Managing parental groups: personal impact of a group leadership course for child healthcare nurses.

    PubMed

    Lefèvre, Åsa; Lundqvist, Pia; Drevenhorn, Eva; Hallström, Inger

    2017-02-01

    To investigate the experience and personal impact of a group leadership course for child healthcare nurses. During their child's first year, all parents in Sweden are invited to participate in parental groups within the child health service; however, only 49% choose to participate. Despite extensive experience, child healthcare nurses find managing parental groups challenging and express a need for training in group dynamics and group leadership. The study was designed as a controlled study with a pretest/post-test design where the participants form their own control group. A group leadership course was given to 56 child healthcare nurses and evaluated in a pre- and postintervention questionnaire, a course evaluation and an interview with the course leaders. The child healthcare nurses felt their group leadership skills were strengthened and the majority (96%) felt that the course had changed their way of leading parental groups. They felt that the group leader role had been clarified and that they had obtained several new tools to use in their groups. Clarifying the role of group leader and adding knowledge about group leadership and dynamics seems to have increased the self-confidence for child healthcare nurses in group leadership. Improved confidence in group management might motivate the child healthcare nurses to further develop parental groups to attract the parents who currently choose not to participate. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  9. Protective effects of tempol in an experimental ovarian ischemia-reperfusion injury model in female Wistar albino rats.

    PubMed

    Pınar, Neslihan; Soylu Karapınar, Oya; Özcan, Oğuzhan; Atik Doğan, Esin; Bayraktar, Suphi

    2017-07-01

    The aim of this study was to investigate the antioxidant effects of tempol on ovarian ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury in rats. Forty female Wistar albino rats were randomly divided into 5 groups: Group I, sham; Group II, ischemia (I); Group III, I/R; Group IV, I/R + tempol 30 mg/kg i.p; Group V, I/R + tempol 50 mg/kg i.p. Oxidative stress index (OSI) was significantly higher in the ischemia group and the I/R group than in the sham group. Catalase levels were significantly lower in the I/R group than in the I/R + tempol 30 mg/kg i.p. and the I/R + tempol 50 mg/kg i.p. groups. Glutathione peroxidase levels were lower in the I/R group than in the I/R + tempol 30 mg/kg i.p. and the I/R + tempol 50 mg/kg i.p. groups. MDA levels were significantly lower in the I/R + tempol 30 mg/kg i.p. group and the I/R + tempol 50 mg/kg i.p. group than in the I/R group. The levels of the histopathological parameters were significantly decreased in the I/R + tempol 50 mg/kg i.p. group compared with the I/R group. Tempol can be used for reducing ovarian I/R injury.

  10. Optimal group size in a highly social mammal

    PubMed Central

    Markham, A. Catherine; Gesquiere, Laurence R.; Alberts, Susan C.; Altmann, Jeanne

    2015-01-01

    Group size is an important trait of social animals, affecting how individuals allocate time and use space, and influencing both an individual’s fitness and the collective, cooperative behaviors of the group as a whole. Here we tested predictions motivated by the ecological constraints model of group size, examining the effects of group size on ranging patterns and adult female glucocorticoid (stress hormone) concentrations in five social groups of wild baboons (Papio cynocephalus) over an 11-y period. Strikingly, we found evidence that intermediate-sized groups have energetically optimal space-use strategies; both large and small groups experience ranging disadvantages, in contrast to the commonly reported positive linear relationship between group size and home range area and daily travel distance, which depict a disadvantage only in large groups. Specifically, we observed a U-shaped relationship between group size and home range area, average daily distance traveled, evenness of space use within the home range, and glucocorticoid concentrations. We propose that a likely explanation for these U-shaped patterns is that large, socially dominant groups are constrained by within-group competition, whereas small, socially subordinate groups are constrained by between-group competition and predation pressures. Overall, our results provide testable hypotheses for evaluating group-size constraints in other group-living species, in which the costs of intra- and intergroup competition vary as a function of group size. PMID:26504236

  11. New angiotensin II type 1 receptor blocker, azilsartan, attenuates cardiac remodeling after myocardial infarction.

    PubMed

    Nakamura, Yuichi; Suzuki, Satoshi; Saitoh, Shu-ichi; Takeishi, Yasuchika

    2013-01-01

    After an acute myocardial infarction (MI), neurohumoral systems including renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) are activated which in turn aggravate cardiac remodeling. Angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) are useful drugs for suppression of RAAS. The purpose of this study was to evaluate a new ARB, azilsartan, for suppressing cardiac remodeling and progression to heart failure after MI. We created MI by left anterior descending coronary artery ligation in male mice, and these mice were orally administered saline (0.2 mL) in the control group (Group C), 0.1 mg/kg/d of azilsartan in the low dose group (Group L), and 1.0 mg/kg/d in the high dose group (Group H) everyday. Blood pressure was decreased in Group H, but not in Group L, compared to Group C. At 2 weeks after MI creation, infarct size and fibrotic change at the site remote to the myocardial infarcted area were attenuated in Group L and Group H compared to Group C. Echocardiography revealed that cardiac remodeling was suppressed in Group L and Group H compared to Group C. Increases of mRNA expression levels related to fibrotic change were attenuated in Group L and Group H compared to Group C. The new ARB, azilsartan, had a cardiac remodeling suppression effect after MI, and this effect was observed without blood pressure lowering.

  12. Effects of Sex Composition on Group Processes in Alcohol Prevention Groups for Teens

    PubMed Central

    Garcia, Tracey A.; Bacio, Guadalupe A.; Tomlinson, Kristin; Ladd, Benjamin O.; Anderson, Kristen G.

    2015-01-01

    Although most alcohol and other drug prevention programs for adolescents are offered in group settings, little is known about the possible effects of sex composition on group processes and mechanisms of change. Using the Group Actor-Partner Interdependence Model framework, we examined how the sex constellation of adolescent prevention group members influenced youth satisfaction, engagement, and endorsement of healthy behavior during group. Participants in Project Options (N = 379; 61.8% girls; Mage = 16.1; SD = 1.4), a voluntary school-based alcohol prevention program, completed measures of satisfaction at each prevention session and observers rated engagement and change talk for each group. When analyses were oriented towards girls, their personal satisfaction, group-rated satisfaction, and group-level engagement were positively related to having more girls in the group. Similarly, in boys, personal satisfaction, satisfaction of the group as a whole, and engagement in groups improved when groups were composed of more girls. Statements supportive of healthy alcohol/drug-related decision making were unrelated to group composition. The findings suggest that the composition of girls and boys in groups has differential effects on some group processes. This avenue of research has merit for the understanding the mechanisms associated with satisfaction and engagement in adolescent substance use prevention programs. PMID:26237325

  13. Role of diclofenac sodium and paracetamol on colonic anastomosis: An experimental rodent model.

    PubMed

    Gulcicek, Osman Bilgin; Solmaz, Ali; Yigitbas, Hakan; Ercetin, Candas; Yavuz, Erkan; Ozdogan, Kamil; Biricik, Aytac; Akkalp, Asli Kahraman; Uzun, Hafize; Kutnu, Muge; Celebi, Fatih; Celik, Atilla

    2018-05-01

    Despite many advances in surgery and technology, colonic anastomosis remains a challenge after colonic resection. The purpose of this study is to compare the safety of using diclofenac sodium and paracetamol for analgesia in colonic anastomosis on rats. Wistar-Hannover rats were randomly allocated to four groups: Group 1, sham-operated group; Group 2, control group; Group 3, diclofenac sodium group; Group 4, paracetamol group. After laparotomy, the left colon was transected and a single-layer anastomosis was made with 5/0 vicryl in Groups 2, 3, and 4. Only laparotomy was performed in Group 1. After anastomosis, we administered saline to Group 2, diclofenac sodium to Group 3, and paracetamol to Group 4 for 7 days. Then, all animals were decapitated. The anastomotic region was resected, and bursting pressure was measured. Then, the specimen was sent to the laboratory for histological examination and hydroxyproline analysis. Bursting pressure and hydroxyproline level were significantly higher in the paracetamol group (p<0.05). When we looked at the fibrosis levels of these groups, it was also higher in paracetamol group. Bursting pressure, hydroxyproline levels, and fibrosis levels indicate that the perioperative use of paracetamol for analgesia when undergoing colonic anastomosis is safer than diclofenac sodium. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Taiwan.

  14. Social Groups Prioritize Selective Attention to Faces: How Social Identity Shapes Distractor Interference

    PubMed Central

    Hill, LaBarron K.; Williams, DeWayne P.; Thayer, Julian F.

    2016-01-01

    Human faces automatically attract visual attention and this process appears to be guided by social group memberships. In two experiments, we examined how social groups guide selective attention toward in-group and out-group faces. Black and White participants detected a target letter among letter strings superimposed on faces (Experiment 1). White participants were less accurate on trials with racial out-group (Black) compared to in-group (White) distractor faces. Likewise, Black participants were less accurate on trials with racial out-group (White) compared to in-group (Black) distractor faces. However, this pattern of out-group bias was only evident under high perceptual load—when the task was visually difficult. To examine the malleability of this pattern of racial bias, a separate sample of participants were assigned to mixed-race minimal groups (Experiment 2). Participants assigned to groups were less accurate on trials with their minimal in-group members compared to minimal out-group distractor faces, regardless of race. Again, this pattern of out-group bias was only evident under high perceptual load. Taken together, these results suggest that social identity guides selective attention toward motivationally relevant social groups—shifting from out-group bias in the domain of race to in-group bias in the domain of minimal groups—when perceptual resources are scarce. PMID:27556646

  15. The recruitment of new members to existing PBSGL small groups: a qualitative study.

    PubMed

    Park, Julia; Cunningham, David E

    2018-04-23

    Introduction Practice-Based Small Group Learning (PBSGL) is a learning programme widely adopted by primary healthcare professions (general practitioners, general practice nurses and pharmacists) in Scotland and other countries in the UK. PBSGL groups recruit members and decide on meeting dates and venues. Study aims To determine how groups recruit new members and discern what are the important attributes of the new members. Method A grounded theory approach was used with purposive sampling to recruit PBSGL groups to the study. Focus groups drawn from established PBSGL groups were conducted by two researchers following an iterative process, with interviews audio-recorded and transcribed, and codes and themes constructed. Data saturation was achieved. Results and conclusions Four themes were identified that affected group recruitment: group formation and purpose; group culture and ethos; experience and seniority range of group members; professional socialisation and cross-fertilisation. Groups whose main purpose was learning encouraged diverse membership, while groups that were stricter with recruitment often prioritised friendship, group safety, trust and peer support over learning. The variation in group's openness to recruitment may make it difficult for potential members to find a group and this may affect the development and expansion of the PBSGL programme.

  16. Which Treatment is More Effective for Functional Ankle Instability: Strengthening or Combined Muscle Strengthening and Proprioceptive Exercises?

    PubMed

    Kim, Ki-Jong; Kim, Young-Eok; Jun, Hyun-Ju; Lee, Jin-Su; Ji, Sung-Ha; Ji, Sang-Goo; Seo, Tae-Hwa; Kim, Young-Ok

    2014-03-01

    [Purpose] The purpose of this study was to implement combined muscle strengthening and proprioceptive exercises to examine the effects of combined exercises on functional ankle instability. [Subjects and Methods] Experiments were conducted with 30 adult males and females. The study subjects were randomly assigned to either a control group (Group A), a muscle strengthening exercise group (Group B), or a combined muscle strengthening and proprioceptive exercise group (Group C) consisting of 10 subjects each. In Group A, measurements were only conducted before and after the experiment without any intervention, whereas the exercise programs for Group B and Group C were implemented three days per week for four weeks. [Results] Muscle strength showed significant increases in Groups B and C compared with the control group during plantar flexion, dorsiflexion, inversion, and eversion. The Cumberland ankle instability tool showed significant increases in Group B and Group C compared with Group A and significant increases in Group C compared with Group B. [Conclusion] Applying combined muscle strengthening and proprioceptive exercises to those who have functional ankle instability is more effective than applying only muscle strengthening exercises.

  17. Intergroup threat and experienced affect: the distinct roles of causal attributions and in-group identification.

    PubMed

    Costarelli, Sandro

    2009-06-01

    Research shows that under manipulated conditions of intergroup threat, individuals experience greater negative affect to the extent that low in-group identifiers make an in-group-internal attribution rather than an out-group-internal attribution, and high in-group identifiers make an out-group-internal attribution rather than an in-group-internal attribution for outcomes of intergroup comparison that threaten their social identity. The author predicted and found that under conditions of making an out-group-internal attribution, such an effect of in-group identification is mediated by the general proneness to perceiving in-group-out-group differences, or intergroup distinctiveness, at high, but not low, levels of in-group identification. Combining the findings of 2 different literatures, the author provides new insights into the distinct roles played by intergroup attributions as a predictor, in-group identification as a moderator, and intergroup distinctiveness as a mediator of the affective responses produced under conditions of social identity threat instantiated by individuals' making out-group-internal attribution for the in-group unfavorable outcomes of intergroup comparison.

  18. Is ursodeoxycholic acid crucial for ischemia/reperfusion-induced ovarian injury in rat ovary?

    PubMed

    Akdemir, Ali; Sahin, Cagdas; Erbas, Oytun; Yeniel, Ahmet O; Sendag, Fatih

    2015-08-01

    Ursodeoxycholic acid is frequently used in cholestatic liver diseases. Also, it protects hepatocytes against oxidative stress induced by hydrophobic bile acids. We investigated the anti-oxidative effect of ursodeoxycholic acid on ischemia/reperfusion injury after ovarian de-torsion in rats. We designed five study groups. Group 1 (n = 6): Sham-operated group; group 2 (n = 6): torsion group; group 3 (n = 6): torsion and ursodeoxycholic acid, group 4 (n = 7): torsion/de-torsion group; and group 5 (n = 7): torsion/de-torsion and ursodeoxycholic acid. After that, ovarian samples were obtained and examined histologically and tissue levels of malondialdehyde were measured. Follicular degeneration, edema and inflammatory cells were significantly decreased in groups 3 and 5 in comparison with groups 2 and 4. Also, groups 4 and 5 were compared in terms of vascular congestion and hemorrhage and these were found to be significantly decreased in group 5. In addition, levels of malondialdehyde were significantly decreased in groups 3 and 5 in comparison with groups 2 and 4. We concluded that ursodeoxycholic acid might be useful to protect the ovary against ischemia and reperfusion injury.

  19. Keeping up appearances: Strategic information exchange by disidentified group members

    PubMed Central

    Matschke, Christina

    2017-01-01

    Information exchange is a crucial process in groups, but to date, no one has systematically examined how a group member’s relationship with a group can undermine this process. The current research examined whether disidentified group members (i.e., members who have a negative relationship with their group) strategically undermine the group outcome in information exchange. Disidentification has been found to predict negative group-directed behaviour, but at the same time disidentified members run the risk of being punished or excluded from the group when displaying destructive behaviour. In three studies we expected and found that disidentified group members subtly act against the interest of the group by withholding important private information, while at the same time they keep up appearances by sharing important information that is already known by the other group members. These findings stress the importance of taking a group member’s relationship with a group into account when considering the process of information exchange. PMID:28384322

  20. Early group bias in the Faroe Islands: Cultural variation in children's group-based reasoning.

    PubMed

    Schug, Mariah G; Shusterman, Anna; Barth, Hilary; Patalano, Andrea L

    2016-01-01

    Recent developmental research demonstrates that group bias emerges early in childhood. However, little is known about the extent to which bias in minimal (i.e., arbitrarily assigned) groups varies with children's environment and experience, and whether such bias is universal across cultures. In this study, the development of group bias was investigated using a minimal groups paradigm with 46 four- to six-year-olds from the Faroe Islands. Children observed in-group and out-group members exhibiting varying degrees of prosocial behaviour (egalitarian or stingy sharing). Children did not prefer their in-group in the pretest, but a pro-in-group and anti-out-group sentiment emerged in both conditions in the posttest. Faroese children's response patterns differ from those of American children [Schug, M. G., Shusterman, A., Barth, H., & Patalano, A. L. (2013). Minimal-group membership influences children's responses to novel experience with group members. Developmental Science, 16(1), 47-55], suggesting that intergroup bias shows cultural variation even in a minimal groups context.

  1. Inter-group and intra-group assertiveness: adolescents' social skills following cultural transition.

    PubMed

    Korem, Anat; Horenczyk, Gabriel; Tatar, Moshe

    2012-08-01

    The goals of this study were to examine intra-group and inter-group assertiveness among adolescents, and to compare these two domains of assertiveness between cultural groups in Israel. Measures of intra-group and inter-group assertiveness were developed, and questionnaires were administrated to 441 immigrants from the Former Soviet Union (FSU), 242 immigrants from Ethiopia and 333 non-immigrants. Compared to non-immigrants, FSU and Ethiopian immigrants' inter-group assertiveness was lower. Girls reported higher levels of inter-group assertiveness than boys. Each of the immigrant groups rates itself as equally assertive as the non-immigrant group and more assertive than the other immigrant group. Also, a difference between inter-group and intra-group assertiveness was found among the FSU immigrants. It is argued that adolescents' assertiveness following cultural transition is associated with socio-cultural context, and the implications of this conclusion are discussed. Copyright © 2011 The Foundation for Professionals in Services for Adolescents. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  2. Altruistic behavior in cohesive social groups: The role of target identifiability.

    PubMed

    Ritov, Ilana; Kogut, Tehila

    2017-01-01

    People's tendency to be more generous toward identifiable victims than toward unidentifiable or statistical victims is known as the Identifiable Victim Effect. Recent research has called the generality of this effect into question, showing that in cross-national contexts, identifiability mostly affects willingness to help victims of one's own "in-group." Furthermore, in inter-group conflict situations, identifiability increased generosity toward a member of the adversary group, but decreased generosity toward a member of one's own group. In the present research we examine the role of group-cohesiveness as an underlying factor accounting for these divergent findings. In particular, we examined novel groups generated in the lab, using the minimal group paradigm, as well as natural groups of students in regular exercise sections. Allocation decisions in dictator games revealed that a group's cohesiveness affects generosity toward in-group and out-group recipients differently, depending on their identifiability. In particular, in cohesive groups the identification of an in-group recipient decreased, rather than increased generosity.

  3. [Protective effect of Saccharomyces boulardii against intestinal mucosal barrier injury in rats with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease].

    PubMed

    Liu, Y T; Li, Y Q; Wang, Y Z

    2016-12-20

    Objective: To investigate the protective effect of Saccharomyces boulardii against intestinal mucosal barrier injury in rats with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Methods: A total of 36 healthy male Sprague-Dawley rats with a mean body weight of 180±20 g were randomly divided into control group, model group, and treatment group, with 12 rats in each group, after adaptive feeding for 1 week. The rats in the control group were given basic feed, and those in the model group and treatment group were given high-fat feed. After 12 weeks of feeding, the treatment group was given Saccharomyces boulardii (75×10 8 CFU/kg/d) by gavage, and those in the control group and model group were given isotonic saline by gavage. At the 20th week, blood samples were taken from the abdominal aorta to measure the levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), triglyceride (TG), intestinal fatty acid binding protein (IFABP), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and endotoxins. The liver pathological changes, intestinal histopathological changes, and expression of occludin in the intestinal mucosa were observed. Fecal samples were collected to measure the changes in Escherichia coli and Bacteroides. A one-way analysis of variance and the SNK test were used for comparison between multiple groups, and the rank sum test was used as the non-parametric test. Results: Compared with the control group, the model group had significantly higher body weight, liver mass, and liver index ( P < 0.05), and compared with the model group, the treatment group had significant reductions in body weight, liver mass, and liver index ( P < 0.05). The model group had significant increases in TG, ALT, and AST compared with the control group ( P < 0.05), the treatment group had a significant reduction in AST compared with the model group ( P < 0.05), and the treatment group had slight reductions in TG and ALT compared with the model group ( P > 0.05). Compared with the control group, the model group had significant increases in the levels of endotoxin, TNF-α, and IFABP ( P < 0.05), and the treatment group had significant reductions in the levels of endotoxin, TNF-α, and IFABP ( P < 0.05). Liver tissue staining showed that the model group had significantly increased hepatocyte steatosis compared with the control group ( P < 0.05), and that the treatment group had significantly reduced hepatocyte steatosis compared with the model group ( P < 0.05). The intestinal villi in the control group had ordered arrangement and a complete structure; in the model group, the intestinal villi were shortened with local shedding and a lack of ordered arrangement; compared with the model group, the treatment group had mild edema and ordered arrangements of the intestinal villi. The model group had a significantly reduced level of occludin protein compared with the control group ( P < 0.05), and the treatment group had a slight increase compared with the model group. The model group had a significantly increased number of Escherichia coli and a significantly reduced number of Bacteroides compared with the control group ( P < 0.05), and the treatment group had a significantly reduced number of Escherichia coli and a significantly increased number of Bacteroides compared with the model group ( P < 0.05). Conclusion: High-fat diet can successfully induce NAFLD in rats, and intervention with Saccharomyces boulardii can reduce body weight and improve hepatocyte steatosis. Saccharomyces boulardii can reduce endotoxemia in NAFLD rats and thus alleviate inflammatory response. Saccharomyces boulardii can also adjust the proportion of Escherichia coli and Bacteroides in the intestine of NAFLD rats.

  4. Comparing Indirect Effects in Different Groups in Single-Group and Multi-Group Structural Equation Models

    PubMed Central

    Ryu, Ehri; Cheong, Jeewon

    2017-01-01

    In this article, we evaluated the performance of statistical methods in single-group and multi-group analysis approaches for testing group difference in indirect effects and for testing simple indirect effects in each group. We also investigated whether the performance of the methods in the single-group approach was affected when the assumption of equal variance was not satisfied. The assumption was critical for the performance of the two methods in the single-group analysis: the method using a product term for testing the group difference in a single path coefficient, and the Wald test for testing the group difference in the indirect effect. Bootstrap confidence intervals in the single-group approach and all methods in the multi-group approach were not affected by the violation of the assumption. We compared the performance of the methods and provided recommendations. PMID:28553248

  5. Evaluation of suture material characteristics in an in vitro experimental model.

    PubMed

    Justan, I

    2010-01-01

    The purpose of our study was to indentify the mechanical characteristics of various suture materials. We created an in-vitro experimental flexor tendon model. Materials were divided into four groups: monofilament polypropylene non-absorbable material (group 1); monofilament long-term absorbable material (group 2); polyester multifilament non-absorbable coated material (group 3) and polyester multifilament non-absorbable uncoated material (group 4). We performed 135 tests. The mean maximal tensile strength was 62.92 N in group 1, 75.20 N in group 2, 36.38 N in group 3 and 72.4 N in group 4. Elasticity in millimetres was adjusted at the 35N level: group 1:2.01 mm, group 2:2.18 mm, group 3:2.14 and group 4:1.51 mm. With regard to its elasticity and favourable SD for tensile strength measurements, polyester multifilament non-absorbable uncoated material was considered to be the most suitable material.

  6. Social Class Differences Produce Social Group Preferences

    PubMed Central

    Horwitz, Suzanne R.; Shutts, Kristin; Olson, Kristina R.

    2014-01-01

    Some social groups are higher in socioeconomic status than others and the former tend to be favored over the latter. The present research investigated whether observing group differences in wealth alone can directly cause children to prefer wealthier groups. In Experiment 1, 4–5-year-old children developed a preference for a wealthy novel group over a less wealthy group. In Experiment 2, children did not develop preferences when groups differed by another kind of positive/negative attribute (i.e., living in brightly-colored houses vs. drab houses), suggesting that wealth is a particularly meaningful group distinction. Lastly, in Experiment 3, the effect of favoring novel wealthy groups was moderated by group membership: Children assigned to a wealthy group showed ingroup favoritism, but those assigned to the less wealthy group did not. These experiments shed light on why children tend to be biased in favor of social groups that are higher in socioeconomic status. PMID:24702971

  7. Group Work Publication-1991.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Zimpfer, David G.

    1992-01-01

    Lists 21 new publications in group work, of which 9 are reviewed. Those discussed include publications on group counseling and psychotherapy, structured groups, support groups, psychodrama, and social group work. (Author/NB)

  8. Influence of group cohesion on maternal well-being among participants in a support/education group program for single mothers.

    PubMed

    Lipman, Ellen L; Waymouth, Marjorie; Gammon, Tara; Carter, Patricia; Secord, Margaret; Leung, Olivia; Mills, Brenda; Hicks, Frances

    2007-10-01

    Single mothers are at increased risk of psychosocial disadvantage, social isolation and physical and mental health difficulties. The authors present (1) the results of group cohesion assessments completed by mothers participating in a trial of community-based support/education groups, and (2) assessments of the association between group cohesion ratings and intervention outcomes of maternal self-evaluations of well-being (mood, self-esteem, and social support) and parenting. Mothers participating in groups completed the Group Atmosphere Scale, a measure of group cohesion, post-group. Overall, most participants provided strong ratings of group cohesion. Significant associations were found between group cohesion and specific positive outcomes. This suggests a positive association between group cohesion and mood, self-esteem, social support, and parenting, in this trial.

  9. Biochemical metabolic changes assessed by 31P magnetic resonance spectroscopy after radiation-induced hepatic injury in rabbits

    PubMed Central

    Yu, Ri-Sheng; Hao, Liang; Dong, Fei; Mao, Jian-Shan; Sun, Jian-Zhong; Chen, Ying; Lin, Min; Wang, Zhi-Kang; Ding, Wen-Hong

    2009-01-01

    AIM: To compare the features of biochemical metabolic changes detected by hepatic phosphorus-31 magnetic resonance spectroscopy (31P MRS) with the liver damage score (LDS) and pathologic changes in rabbits and to investigate the diagnostic value of 31P MRS in acute hepatic radiation injury. METHODS: A total of 30 rabbits received different radiation doses (ranging 5-20 Gy) to establish acute hepatic injury models. Blood biochemical tests, 31P MRS and pathological examinations were carried out 24 h after irradiation. The degree of injury was evaluated according to LDS and pathology. Ten healthy rabbits served as controls. The MR examination was performed on a 1.5 T imager using a 1H/31P surface coil by the 2D chemical shift imaging technique. The relative quantities of phosphomonoesters (PME), phosphodiesters (PDE), inorganic phosphate (Pi) and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) were measured. The data were statistically analyzed. RESULTS: (1) Relative quantification of phosphorus metabolites: (a) ATP: there were significant differences (P < 0.05) (LDS-groups: control group vs mild group vs moderate group vs severe group, 1.83 ± 0.33 vs 1.55 ± 0.24 vs 1.27 ± 0.09 vs 0.98 ± 0.18; pathological groups: control group vs mild group vs moderate group vs severe group, 1.83 ± 0.33 vs 1.58 ± 0.25 vs 1.32 ± 0.07 vs 1.02 ± 0.18) of ATP relative quantification among control group, mild injured group, moderate injured group, and severe injured group according to both LDS grading and pathological grading, respectively, and it decreased progressively with the increased degree of injury (r = -0.723, P = 0.000). (b) PME and Pi; the relative quantification of PME and Pi decreased significantly in the severe injured group, and the difference between the control group and severe injured group was significant (P < 0.05) (PME: LDS-control group vs LDS-severe group, 0.86 ± 0.23 vs 0.58 ± 0.22, P = 0.031; pathological control group vs pathological severe group, 0.86 ± 0.23 vs 0.60 ± 0.21, P = 0.037; Pi: LDS-control group vs LDS-severe group, 0.74 ± 0.18 vs 0.43 ± 0.14, P = 0.013; pathological control group vs pathological severe group, 0.74 ± 0.18 vs 0.43 ± 0.14, P = 0.005) according to LDS grading and pathological grading, respectively. (c) PDE; there were no significant differences among groups according to LDS grading, and no significant differences between the control group and experimental groups according to pathological grading. (2) The ratio of relative quantification of phosphorus metabolites: significant differences (P < 0.05) (LDS-moderate group and LDS-severe group vs LDS-control group and LDS-mild group, 1.94 ± 0.50 and 1.96 ± 0.72 vs 1.43 ± 0.31 and 1.40 ± 0.38) were only found in PDE/ATP between the moderate injured group, the severe injured group and the control group, the mild injured group. No significant difference was found in other ratios of relative quantification of phosphorus metabolites. CONCLUSION: 31P MRS is a useful method to evaluate early acute hepatic radiation injury. The relative quantification of hepatic ATP levels, which can reflect the pathological severity of acute hepatic radiation injury, is correlated with LDS. PMID:19522022

  10. The use of modern dressings in managing split-thickness skin graft donor sites: a single-centre randomised controlled trial.

    PubMed

    Kazanavičius, M; Cepas, A; Kolaityte, V; Simoliuniene, R; Rimdeika, R

    2017-06-02

    To identify the most appropriate, most suitable and most efficient dressing for split-thickness skin graft (STSG) donor sites. Comparing the wound healing rate, pain severity and duration, as well as the dressing change frequency in four randomised patient groups. A single-centre non-blinded randomised controlled trial was carried out during 2010-2014. All patients treated for skin defects/lesions (due to burns, trauma or ulcers) using STSG were included in the study. All patients were randomly allocated in four different donor site treatment groups; polyurethane (PU group, Mepilex); polyurethane with silicone membrane (PUSM group; Mepilex border,); transparent, breathable film (TBF group; Mepitel film) and cotton gauze dressings (CG group) using Excel 2007. We evaluated: wound healing time, pain severity and duration, the frequency of dressing change, donor site re-epithelialisation, donor site complications (signs of inflammation or infection). Patients were assessed on postoperative days: 1, 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18 and 21. After random allocation of study participants the number of patients in each group were: PU group n=25; PUSM group n=24; TBF group n=24; CG group n=25. The groups were homogenous according to gender, age, main pathology, donor site area and wound size. The STSG donor site healing time varied from 9 to 21 days. The mean healing time in the CG group was 14.76 days, whereas in the PU, PUSM, and TBF group it was significantly shorter; 12.25 days, 11.63 days and 10 days, respectively. Patients in the TBF group demonstrated the most rapid healing time with 66.7% of STSG donor sites healed by postoperative day 9. The pain duration interval in modern dressing groups (PU, PUSM and TBF groups) was 0-9 days, whereas it was 6-18 day in the CS group. Pain intensity mean on postoperative day 1 was 2.21 in the PU group; 1.67 in the PUSM group; 1.46 in the TBF group and 3.04 in the CG group. The average pain duration in Group PU, PUSM, and TBF was 4.08 days; 2.5 days; 2.29 days, respectively. The average number of times each dressing was changed in each group was, 2.83 times in the PU group and PUSM group and 1.46 times in the TBF group. The CG dressing group were changed once when the donor site wound re-epithelialised. There was one patient in the PU group who experienced signs of infection, was treated accordingly and excluded from the study. The fastest healing time was demonstrated by patients in the TBF group. The pain was not as severe and for a shorter period of time in modern dressing study groups. However, the pain was lightest and felt shortest in TBF dressing group. The modern dressings PU and PUSM had to be changed more frequently than TBF.

  11. The interprofessional team as a small group.

    PubMed

    Kane, R A

    1975-01-01

    Conflicts in interprofessional teamwork may be as much explained by group process considerations as by the interaction of professional roles and statuses. This paper examines the interprofessional team as a small group, using a synthesis of sources from social psychology, social group work, T-group literature, management theory, and health team research. Eight issues are considered in relation to the team as a small group, namely, (a) the individual in the group, (b) team size, (c) group norms, (d) democracy, (e) decision making and conflict resolution, (f) communication and structure, (g) leadership, and (h) group harmony and its relationship to group productivity.

  12. ABO and Rh blood group genotypes in a cohort of Saudi stem cell donors.

    PubMed

    Alzahrani, M; Jawdat, D; Alaskar, A; Cereb, N; Hajeer, A H

    2018-04-01

    The ABO and rhesus (Rh) blood group antigens are the most frequently studied genetic markers in a large group of people. Blood type frequencies vary in different racial/ethnic groups. Our objective was to investigate the distribution of the ABO and rhesus (Rh) blood groups by molecular typing method in a population of Saudi stem cell donors. Our data indicate that the most common blood group in our population is group O followed by group A then group B, and finally, the least common is group AB. © 2018 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  13. Simulated Group Counseling: An Experiential Training Model for Group Work.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Romano, John L.

    1998-01-01

    Describes an experiential group training model designed for prepracticum-level counseling graduate students. Simulated Group Counseling (SCG) offers students an opportunity to experience being group members; facilitating a group; and processing the group with peers, an advanced graduate student observer, and the instructor. SGC reduces…

  14. The Effects of Two Self-Regulation Interventions to Increase Self-Efficacy and Group Exercise Behavior in Fitness Clubs

    PubMed Central

    Middelkamp, Jan; van Rooijen, Maaike; Wolfhagen, Peter; Steenbergen, Bert

    2016-01-01

    Studies on the adoption and maintenance of group exercise behavior are scarce. The objective of this study is to test two self-efficacy based interventions to increase barrier self-efficacy and group exercise behavior. In total 122 participants (Mage 42.02 yr.; SD 12.29; 67% females) were recruited and randomly assigned to one control and two experimental groups. The control group was limited to participate in one virtual group exercise program only (group 1). The first experimental group was able to self-set their activities and participate in multiple group exercise programs (group 2). The second experimental group received an additional monthly coaching protocol to manage self-set goals (group 3). A validated scale for barrier self-efficacy was used, group exercise sessions were measured and drop-out rates were registered. An ANOVA indicated that mean amount of sessions of group 1 and 3, and 2 and 3 differed significantly (p < 0.05) in 12 weeks. Descriptive statistics demonstrate mean group exercise sessions over the total of 12 weeks of 2.74 (SD 4.65) in the control group; 4.75 (SD 6.08) in the first experimental group, and 12.25 (SD 9.07) for the second experimental group. Regression analysis indicated that self-efficacy at 8-weeks explained the highest variance in overall group exercise sessions (R2 = 0.18; p < 0.05). Overall drop-out rates were 88% in group 1, 78% in group 2 and 48% in group 3. The results showed that group exercise behavior can significantly be improved by a coaching protocol on self-set goals. Future research should address the effectiveness of self-set activities and self-set goals for a longer period of time and in other types of exercise programs. Key points Approximately 144 million individuals exercise in fitness clubs worldwide. About 50% participate in at least one group exercise program and 23% participate only in group exercise classes with instructor. Research on attendance and exercise behavior in fitness clubs is limited but there are strong indications that the frequencies are low. This study demonstrates that group exercise behavior in fitness clubs can be improved significantly by a coaching protocol on self-set goals based on tenets of self-efficacy theory. PMID:27274676

  15. The impact of gout on patient’s lives: a study of African-American and Caucasian men and women with gout

    PubMed Central

    2014-01-01

    Introduction The aim of this study was to examine the impact of gout on quality of life (QOL) and study differences by gender and race. Methods Ten race- and sex-stratified nominal groups were conducted, oversampling for African-Americans and women with gout. Patients presented, discussed, combined and rank-ordered their concerns. Results A total of 62 patients with mean age 65.1 years, 60% men, 64% African-American, participated in 10 nominal groups: African-American men (n = 23; 3 groups); African-American women (n = 18; 3 groups); Caucasian men (n = 15; 3 groups); and Caucasian women (n = 6; 1 group). The most frequently cited high-ranked concerns among the ten nominal groups were: (1) effect of gout flare on daily activities (n = 10 groups); (2) work disability (n = 8 groups); (3) severe pain (n = 8 groups); (4) joint swelling and tenderness (n = 6 groups); (5) food restrictions (n = 6 groups); (6) medication related issues (n = 6 groups); (7) dependency on family and others (n = 5 groups); (8) emotional Impact (n = 5 groups); (9) interference with sexual function (n = 4 groups); (10) difficulty with shoes (n = 4 groups); and (11) sleep disruption (n = 4 groups). Compared with men, women ranked the following concerns high more often: problems with shoes (n = 4 versus n = 0 groups); dependency (n = 3 versus n = 2 groups); and joint/limb deformity (n = 2 versus n = 0 group). Compared with Caucasians, African-Americans ranked the following concerns high more often: dietary restrictions (n = 6 versus n = 0 groups); severe pain (n = 6 versus n = 2 groups); gout bringing the day to a “halt” (n = 2 versus n = 0 group); effect on emotional health (n = 4 versus n = 1 groups); and the need for canes/crutches during flares (n = 2 versus n = 0 group). Conclusions Gout has a significant impact on a patient’s QOL. Important differences in the impact of gout by gender and race were noted. PMID:24961941

  16. 33 CFR Appendix B to Part 155 - Determining and Evaluating Required Response Resources for Vessel Response Plans

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ... carried [persistent (groups II, III, and IV) or non-persistent (group I)]; and the geographic area(s) in... type of petroleum oil carried [persistent (groups II, III, and IV) or non-persistent (group I)]; and... Petroleum Oil Cargo Groups Non-persistent oil 72 G: Group I 1.0 Persistent oil: Group II 1.8 Group III 2.0...

  17. 33 CFR Appendix B to Part 155 - Determining and Evaluating Required Response Resources for Vessel Response Plans

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... carried [persistent (groups II, III, and IV) or non-persistent (group I)]; and the geographic area(s) in... type of petroleum oil carried [persistent (groups II, III, and IV) or non-persistent (group I)]; and... Petroleum Oil Cargo Groups Non-persistent oil 72 G: Group I 1.0 Persistent oil: Group II 1.8 Group III 2.0...

  18. 33 CFR Appendix B to Part 155 - Determining and Evaluating Required Response Resources for Vessel Response Plans

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-07-01

    ... carried [persistent (groups II, III, and IV) or non-persistent (group I)]; and the geographic area(s) in... type of petroleum oil carried [persistent (groups II, III, and IV) or non-persistent (group I)]; and... Petroleum Oil Cargo Groups Non-persistent oil 72 G: Group I 1.0 Persistent oil: Group II 1.8 Group III 2.0...

  19. [Value of mDIXON-Quant sequence, diffusion-weighted imaging in quantitatively diagnosing the sacroiliitis stages].

    PubMed

    An, Y Y; Li, H X; Zhan, Y; Lei, X W

    2017-10-10

    Objective: To evaluate the value of mDIXON-Quant sequence, diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) in quantitative diagnosing of the sacroiliitis stages in patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS). Methods: Based on the Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Activity Index (BASDAI) and laboratory parameters, a total of 51 patients were diagnosed with AS. They were divided into two groups as early active group ( n =20) and chronic active group ( n =31), and at the same time, 25 healthy people from Tianjin were included as control group. The regular MRI sequences and mDIXON-Quant sequence, DWI were obtained. The apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) and fat-signal fraction (FF) value of bone marrow with edema of the sacroiliac joints in early active group and chronic active group and of subchondral bone marrow of sacroiliac joint in control group all were measured by ADC maps and FF maps. Mean (FF, ADC) values were compared between groups. Results: The ADC value of the early active group, chronic active group and the control group is (1.07±0.20)×10(-3)mm(2)/s, (1.00±0.22)×10(-3)mm(2)/s, (0.25±0.07)×10(-3)mm(2)/s, respectively, and the differences of ADC value between early active group and control group, chronic active group and control group were significant ( P <0.01), but the difference of the ADC value between early active group and chronic active group was not significant ( P =0.394). That is to say, the ADC value can't distinguish the early active group and chronic active group. The differences of FF value between groups was significant ( P <0.01), and the FF value of bone marrow with edema in chronic active group were higher than that in early active group. Conclusions: The mDIXON-Quant sequence can quantitatively diagnose early active group and chronic active group, and the diagnostic value is better than DWI. Thus, it can provide guidance for clinical treatment and prognosis.

  20. [Efficacy observation of nonspecific low back pain treated with the dragon-tiger fighting needling method].

    PubMed

    Zhao, Feng; Cao, Dong-bo; Yuan, Yi-qin; Luo, Jian; Wen, Yan-yun; Wang, Yue; Yu, Jie

    2012-06-01

    To compare the difference in the clinical efficacy on nonspecific low back pain (NLBP) treated with the dragon-tiger fighting needling method, the uniform reinforcing-reducing method and the intermediate frequency physiotherapy. Ninety cases of NLBP were randomly divided into a dragon-tiger fighting needling group (group A), an uniform reinforcing-reducing needling group (group B) and an intermediate frequency physiotherapy group (group C), 30 cases in each one. In the group A, the dragon-tiger fighting needling method was used. In the group B, the uniform reinforcing-reducing method was applied. Two groups of acupoints were prescribed. One group included Shenshu (BL 23), Dachangshu (BL 25), Weizhong (BL 40) and Ashi points. The other group included Qihaishu (BL 24), Guanyuanshu (BL 26), Kunlun (BL 60), Yaoyangguan (GV 3). These two groups of acupoints were used alternatively in the above two groups. In the group C, the intermediate frequency physiotherapy was adopted in the pain area of the lumbar region. The treatment was given once per day in each group. Six treatments made one session. Totally, 2 sessions were required. The Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), the Oswestry Disability Index (ODD and the clinical efficacy were observed in each group. The scores of VAS and ODI were reduced obviously after treatment in each group (P < 0.05, P < 0.01). The score reducing in the group A was much more remarkable than those in the other two groups (all P < 0.05). The clinical curative rate was 30.0% (9/30), 23.3% (7/30) and 16.7% (5/30) in the group A, the group B and the group C, respectively. In comparison, the clinical efficacy in the group A was superior to that in either of the other groups (all P< 0.05). The dragon-tiger fighting needling method achieves the much better efficacy on NLBP compared with either the uniform reinforcing-reducing method or the intermediate frequency physiotherapy. It is one of the more effective needling method for analgesia.

  1. Effect of gamma-hydroxybutyric acid on tissue Na+,K- ATPase levels after experimental head trauma.

    PubMed

    Yosunkaya, A; Ustün, M E; Bariskaner, H; Tavlan, A; Gürbilek, M

    2004-05-01

    A failure of the Na(+),K(+)-ATPase activity (which is essential for ion flux across the cell membranes) occurs in many pathological conditions and may lead to cell dysfunction or even cell death. By altering the concentration of specific opioid peptides, gamma-hydroxybutyric acid (GHB) may change ion flux across cell membranes and produce the 'channel arrest' which we assumed will inhibit the failure of Na+,K(+)-ATPase activity and therefore lead to energy conservation and cell protection. Therefore we planned this study to see the effects of GHB at two different doses on Na(+),K(+)-ATPase activity in an experimental head trauma model. Forty New Zealand rabbits were divided equally into four groups: group I was the sham-operated group, group II (untreated group), group III received head trauma and intravenous (i.v.) 500 mg/kg GHB and group IV received head trauma and i.v. 50 mg/kg GHB. Head trauma was delivered by performing a craniectomy over the right hemisphere and dropping a weight of 10 g from a height of 80 cm. The non-traumatized (left) side was named as 'a' and the traumatized (right) side as 'b'. One hour after the trauma in groups II and III and craniotomy in group I, brain cortices were resected from both sides and in group I only from the right side was the tissue Na-K-ATPase activity determined. The mean +/- SD of Na(+),K(+)-ATPase levels of each group are as follows: group I - 5.97 +/- 0.55; group IIa - 3.90 +/- 1.08; group IIb - 3.58 +/- 0.90; group IIIa - 5.53 +/- 0.60; group IIIb - 5.33 +/- 0.88; group IVa - 5.05 +/- 0.72; group IVb - 4.93 +/- 0.67. The Na(+),K(+)-ATPase levels of group IIa, IIb, IVa and IVb were significantly different from group S (P < 0.05). There were also significant differences between group IIa and groups IIIa and IVa; group IIb and groups IIIb and IVb (P < 0.05). We conclude that GHB is effective in suppressing the decrease in Na(+),K(+)-ATPase levels in brain tissue at two different dose schedules after head trauma.

  2. [Effects of inhibiting the phosphorylation of JNK by absorbed INF-γon the remodeling of nasal mucosa in allergic rhinitis rats].

    PubMed

    Li, Q; Chen, Y L; Ma, Y Y; Zhang, Y D; Sun, C W; You, C P

    2016-07-05

    Objective: To study the role of phosphorylated JNK(c-Jun N-terminal kinase) on nasal mucosa remodeling in allergic rhinitis(AR) rats and the influence of IFN-γon IL-1β,JNK and nasal mucosa remodeling. Method: According to random number table,48 Wistar rats were divided into control group(A group),AR group(B group),IFN-γgroup(C group) and triamcinolone acetonide group(D group).The rats in group B,C and D were sensitized and provocated for inducing AR by intraperitoneal injection of ovalbumin(OVA) and Al(OH)₃.Thirty minutes before intranasally challenged,rats in three groups were administrated by instillation of PBS,IFN-γand triamcinolone acetonide into nasal cavities,while the group A rats were administrated by saline solution.Ten rats in each group were selected to enter the final experiment.The density of IL-1βin serum and nasal lavage fluid were tested by ELISA.The mean absorbance (m A ) of phosphorylated JNK and c-Jun were tested by immunohistochemistry.Western Blot detected the P-JNK level in nasal tissue homogenate. Result: The density of IL-1βin serum and nasal lavage fluid in group C and group D were significantly lower than that of group B ( P <0.01).Immunohistochemistry study showed that the protein expression level of phosphorylated JNK and c-Jun of nasal mucosa were significantly increased in group B,but significantly reduced in group C and group D .The mA of phosphorylated JNK and c-Jun in group B were significantly higher than those in the group C and group D( P <0.01).The Western blot showed that the P-JNK of nasal tissue homogenate in group B was higher than that of group C and group D ( P <0.01). Conclusion: The phosphorylation of JNK played an important role in nasal mucosa remodeling.IFN-γcould inhibit the phosphorylation of JNK and reduce the nasal mucosa remodeling.The mechanisms may be achieved through down-regulation of IL-1β. Copyright© by the Editorial Department of Journal of Clinical Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery.

  3. Neo-adjuvant chemotherapy with cisplatin induces low expression of NMDA receptors and postoperative cognitive impairment.

    PubMed

    Cheng, Jing; Liu, Xiaoqing; Cao, Longhui; Zhang, Tianhua; Li, Huiting; Lin, Wenqian

    2017-01-10

    Whether Neo-adjuvant chemotherapy can affect patients' postoperative brain function is not clear. In this study, we investigated the effect of preoperative cisplatin treatment on postoperative cognitive function and its possible mechanism in rats. Moreover, we also tested whether the NMDAR inhibitor memantine could attenuate cisplatin-induced alterations. 12-month-oldSprague-Dawley rats randomly received an intraperitoneal injection of either cisplatin once a week at a dose of 3mg/kg for three consecutive weeks or an equivalent volume of normal saline. After the injections, the normal saline injection group was divided into 3 groups (n=5 each): a normal saline group (group S), normal saline+pentobarbital group (group SP), and normal saline+pentobarbital+operation group (group SPO).The cisplatin injection group was divided into 3 groups: a cisplatin group (group C), cisplatin+pentobarbital group (group CP), and cisplatin+pentobarbital+operation group (group CPO).Rats in the group SP, SPO,CP and CPO were anaesthetized with sodium pentobarbital and then the SPO and CPO groups underwent a simple laparotomy operation. The effects of memantine were tested through two additional groups of rats (cisplatin+memantine group (group CM) and cisplatin+pentobarbital+operation+memantine group (group CPOM)). A Morris water maze test was performed to evaluate the spatial learning and memory ability five days after anesthesia or operation. After the test, the hippocampi were removed for detection of the expression of NMDAR by western bloting. The relevant protein expression levels of PSD95 and ERK1/2 were detected by western blot analysis. Rats treated with cisplatin had a longer mean escape latency and spent a shorter amount of time in the target quadrant than did the normal saline injection rats. Furthermore, the protein expression levels of NMDA receptors, PSD95 and ERK1/2 were decreased in cisplatin group and memantine could up-regulate their expression. These results suggest that neo-adjuvant chemotherapy with cisplatin exacerbate the postoperative cognitive dysfunction in rats, and this may be caused by a lower expression of NMDA receptors in the hippocampus. Memantine could attenuate these alterations. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

  4. A code for analysis of the fine structure in near-rigid weakly-bonded open-shell complexes that consist of a diatomic radical in a Σ3 state and a closed-shell molecule

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Fawzy, Wafaa M.

    2010-10-01

    A FORTRAN code is developed for simulation and fitting the fine structure of a planar weakly-bonded open-shell complex that consists of a diatomic radical in a Σ3 electronic state and a diatomic or a polyatomic closed-shell molecule. The program sets up the proper total Hamiltonian matrix for a given J value and takes account of electron-spin-electron-spin, electron-spin rotation interactions, and the quartic and sextic centrifugal distortion terms within the complex. Also, R-dependence of electron-spin-electron-spin and electron-spin rotation couplings are considered. The code does not take account of effects of large-amplitude internal rotation of the diatomic radical within the complex. It is assumed that the complex has a well defined equilibrium geometry so that effects of large amplitude motion are negligible. Therefore, the computer code is suitable for a near-rigid rotor. Numerical diagonalization of the matrix provides the eigenvalues and the eigenfunctions that are necessary for calculating energy levels, frequencies, relative intensities of infrared or microwave transitions, and expectation values of the quantum numbers within the complex. Goodness of all the quantum numbers, with exception of J and parity, depends on relative sizes of the product of the rotational constants and quantum numbers (i.e. BJ, CJ, and AK), electron-spin-electron-spin, and electron-spin rotation couplings, as well as the geometry of the complex. Therefore, expectation values of the quantum numbers are calculated in the eigenfunctions basis of the complex. The computational time for the least squares fits has been significantly reduced by using the Hellman-Feynman theory for calculating the derivatives. The computer code is useful for analysis of high resolution infrared and microwave spectra of a planar near-rigid weakly-bonded open-shell complex that contains a diatomic fragment in a Σ3 electronic state and a closed-shell molecule. The computer program was successfully applied to analysis and fitting the observed high resolution infrared spectra of the O 2sbnd HF/O 2sbnd DF and O 2sbnd N 2O complexes. Test input file for simulation and fitting the high resolution infrared spectrum of the O 2sbnd DF complex is provided. Program summaryProgram title: TSIG_COMP Catalogue identifier: AEGM_v1_0 Program summary URL:http://cpc.cs.qub.ac.uk/summaries/AEGM_v1_0.html Program obtainable from: CPC Program Library, Queen's University, Belfast, N. Ireland Licensing provisions: Standard CPC licence, http://cpc.cs.qub.ac.uk/licence/licence.html No. of lines in distributed program, including test data, etc.: 10 030 No. of bytes in distributed program, including test data, etc.: 51 663 Distribution format: tar.gz Programming language: Fortran 90, free format Computer: SGI Origin 3400, workstations and PCs Operating system: Linux, UNIX and Windows (see Restrictions below) RAM: Case dependent Classification: 16.2 Nature of problem: TSIG_COMP calculates frequencies, relative intensities, and expectation values of the various quantum numbers and parities of bound states involved in allowed ro-vibrational transitions in semi-rigid planar weakly-bonded open-shell complexes. The complexes of interest contain a free radical in a Σ3 state and a closed-shell partner, where the electron-spin-electron-spin interaction, electron-spin rotation interaction, and centrifugal forces significantly modify the spectral patterns. To date, ab initio methods are incapable of taking these effects into account to provide accurate predictions for the ro-vibrational energy levels of the complexes of interest. In the TSIG_COMP program, the problem is solved by using the proper effective Hamiltonian and molecular basis set. Solution method: The program uses a Hamiltonian operator that takes into account vibration, end-over-end rotation, electron-spin-electron-spin and electron-spin rotation interactions as well as the various centrifugal distortion terms. The Hamiltonian operator and the molecular basis set are used to set up the Hamiltonian matrix in the inertial axis system of the complex of interest. Diagonalization of the Hamiltonian matrix provides the eigenvalues and the eigenfunctions for the bound ro-vibrational states. These eigenvalues and eigenfunctions are used to calculate frequencies and relative intensities of the allowed infrared or microwave transitions as well as expectation values of all the quantum numbers and parities of states involved in the transitions. The program employs the method of least squares fits to fit the observed frequencies to the calculated frequencies to provide the molecular parameters that determine the geometry of the complex of interest. Restrictions: The number of transitions and parameters included in the fits is limited to 80 parameters and 200 transitions. However, these numbers can be increased by adjusting dimensions of the arrays (not recommended). Running the program under MS windows is recommended for simulations of any number of transitions and for fitting a relatively small number of parameters and transitions (maximum 15 parameters and 82 transitions), for fitting larger number of parameters run time error may occur. Because spectra of weakly bonded complexes are recorded at low temperatures, in most of cases fittings can be performed under MS windows. Running time: Problem-dependent. The provided test input for Linux fits 82 transitions and 21 parameters, the actual run time is 62 minutes. The provided test input file for MS windows fits 82 transitions and 15 parameters; the actual runtime is 5 minutes.

  5. Effects of Number of Animals Monitored on Representations of Cattle Group Movement Characteristics and Spatial Occupancy

    PubMed Central

    Liu, Tong; Green, Angela R.; Rodríguez, Luis F.; Ramirez, Brett C.; Shike, Daniel W.

    2015-01-01

    The number of animals required to represent the collective characteristics of a group remains a concern in animal movement monitoring with GPS. Monitoring a subset of animals from a group instead of all animals can reduce costs and labor; however, incomplete data may cause information losses and inaccuracy in subsequent data analyses. In cattle studies, little work has been conducted to determine the number of cattle within a group needed to be instrumented considering subsequent analyses. Two different groups of cattle (a mixed group of 24 beef cows and heifers, and another group of 8 beef cows) were monitored with GPS collars at 4 min intervals on intensively managed pastures and corn residue fields in 2011. The effects of subset group size on cattle movement characterization and spatial occupancy analysis were evaluated by comparing the results between subset groups and the entire group for a variety of summarization parameters. As expected, more animals yield better results for all parameters. Results show the average group travel speed and daily travel distances are overestimated as subset group size decreases, while the average group radius is underestimated. Accuracy of group centroid locations and group radii are improved linearly as subset group size increases. A kernel density estimation was performed to quantify the spatial occupancy by cattle via GPS location data. Results show animals among the group had high similarity of spatial occupancy. Decisions regarding choosing an appropriate subset group size for monitoring depend on the specific use of data for subsequent analysis: a small subset group may be adequate for identifying areas visited by cattle; larger subset group size (e.g. subset group containing more than 75% of animals) is recommended to achieve better accuracy of group movement characteristics and spatial occupancy for the use of correlating cattle locations with other environmental factors. PMID:25647571

  6. [Effect of febuxostat on epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition of kidney tubules, serum interleukin-6 and transforming growth factor β(1) in hyperuricemic rats].

    PubMed

    Lin, Z M; Zhang, R S; Fan, C X; Liang, Y L; Li, L; Zhao, L; Qu, J C; Xu, X; Zhao, H Y; Liu, X N; Zhu, K S

    2017-05-01

    Objective: To observe the effect of febuxostat on epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of kidney tubules and the levels of serum IL-6 nad transforming growth factor (TGF)β(1) in hyperuricemic rats. Methods: Forty male SD rats were divided into 4 groups: normal control group (NC group), oteracil potassium group (OP group), oteracil potassium with febuxostat group (OF group) and oteracil potassium with benzbromarone group (OB group). Each group had 10 rats and balanced in body weights. To induce hyperuricemia, rats were given oteracil potassium by gastric gavage once a day for eight weeks. Rats in OF group and OB group were given either febuxostat or benbromarone starting with oteracil potassium, and rats in NC group was given saline only. Blood samples were taken before, and at the end of 4 and 8 weeks of the treatments and serum uric acid, creatinine, blood usea nitrogen(BUN), IL-6 and TGFβ(1) contents were measured at each time point. Renal pathological changes were observed via HE and Masson staining, and the expression of α-SMA and E-cadherin were detected by immunohistochemistry. Results: Compared with those in NC group, the levels of serum uric acid, creatinine, BUN, IL-6 and TGFβ(1) in the another three groups were increased significantly (all P <0.01). However, the IL-6 and TGFβ(1) contents in OF group were much lower than those in OP group ( P <0.01). HE and Masson staining showed that OF group had less damage and tubulointerstitial fibrosis than OP group and OB group ( P <0.01). Moreover, the expression of α-SMA was significantly down-regulated ( P <0.01) and that of E-cadherin was significantly up-regulated in OF group compared with those in OP group. Conclusion: Febuxostat treatment significantly inhibited EMT and reduced the levels of IL-6 and TGFβ(1) in hyperuricemia rats.

  7. Group Composition, Creative Synergy, and Group Performance.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Taggar, Simon

    2001-01-01

    A study of 94 intact autonomous work groups performing multi-part tasks revealed that group creative performance increased exponentially with the number of highly creative group members composing the group. However, this occurred only when Team Creativity-Relevant Processes within the group were relatively high. (Contains references.) (Author/CR)

  8. Effects of xylitol as a sugar substitute on diabetes-related parameters in nondiabetic rats.

    PubMed

    Islam, Md Shahidul

    2011-05-01

    Abstract The present study was examined the effects of xylitol feeding on diabetes-associated parameters in nondiabetic rats. Seven-week-old male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into three groups: control (five rats), sucrose (six rats), and xylitol (six rats). Animal had free access to a commercial rat pellet diet, and ad libitum water, 10% sucrose solution, and 10% xylitol solution were supplied to the control, sucrose, and xylitol groups, respectively. After 3 weeks of feeding of experimental diets, food intakes were significantly (P<.05) lower in the sucrose and xylitol groups compared with the control group. Drink intake was significantly higher in the sucrose group but significantly lower in the xylitol group compared with the control group. Body weight gain was significantly lower in the xylitol group compared with the sucrose group. Weekly nonfasting blood glucose was significantly increased, but fasting blood glucose was significantly decreased, in the sucrose group compared with the control and xylitol groups. Significantly better glucose tolerance was observed in the xylitol group compared with the control and sucrose groups. Serum insulin and fructosamine concentrations were not significantly influenced by the feeding of xylitol or sucrose. Relative liver weight and liver glycogen were significantly increased in the xylitol group compared with the sucrose group, whereas no difference was observed between the xylitol and control groups. Serum total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol were significantly decreased in the sucrose and xylitol groups, and serum triglyceride of the xylitol group, but not the sucrose group, was significantly increased compared with the control group. Data of this study suggest that xylitol can be a better sweetener than sucrose to maintain diabetes-related parameters at a physiologically safer and stable condition.

  9. [Clinical research of pasinizid on retreated sputum positive pulmonary tuberculosis in senilities].

    PubMed

    Yu, D; Wang, J; Hu, X

    2001-10-01

    To observe and evaluate the effect and safety of pasinizid on treatment of the senile pulmonary tuberculosis with bacteriological positive. 115 cases of the senile pulmonary tuberculosis with bacteriological positive were divided into therapy group(group A) and control group(group B1 and B2) randomly. Chemotherapy regimen: group A were treated by 3DZL2E/5DL2E mainly composed of pasinizid; group B1 were treated by 3HPZL2/5HL2E(abbreviated HP regimen); group B2 were treated by 3DZL2E/5DL2E(abbreviated SH regimen). When the chemotherapy was over, the sputum negative conversion rates were 92%, 72%, 71% in group A, group B1 and group B2 respectively. The conversion rate in group A was significantly higher than that in group B1 and group B2 (P < 0.05); focal absorption rates were 75%, 50%, 50% respectively, while the vanishing rates of cavity were 85%, 46%, 50% respectively. The rate in group A was significantly higher than that in group B1 and B2(P < 0.05); Rates of side effects were 17%, 58%, 18% respectively. The rates in group A and group B2 were apparently lower than that in group B1(P < 0.01). Bacteriological relapse rate of 2 years were 5%, 19%, 18%, respectively. The rate in group A was lower than that in group B1 and B2 (P < 0.01). The effect of pasinizid on senile retreated sputum positive pulmonary tuberculosis was better than HP and SH regimen. Due to its lower rates of side effects, it is recommended for clinical usage.

  10. Influence of different conditioning methods on the shear bond strength of novel light-curing nano-ionomer restorative to enamel and dentin.

    PubMed

    Korkmaz, Yonca; Ozel, Emre; Attar, Nuray; Ozge Bicer, Ceren

    2010-11-01

    The purpose of this study was to investigate shear bond strength (SBS) between a light-curing nano-ionomer restorative and enamel or dentin after acid etching, after erbium:yttrium-aluminum-garnet (Er:YAG) laser etching, or after combined treatment. Forty third molars were selected, the crowns were sectioned, and 80 tooth slabs were obtained. The specimens were assigned to two groups, which were divided into four subgroups(n = 10). Group 1 [enamel (e)], treated with 37% phosphoric acid (A) + Ketac nano-primer (K); group 2 [dentin (d)], (A) + (K); group 3(e), Er:YAG laser etching (L) + (A) + (K); group 4(d), (L) + (A) + (K); group 5(e), (L) + (K); group 6(d), (L) + (K); group 7(e), (K); group 8(d), (K). The SBS of the specimens was measured with a universal test machine (1 mm/min). Data were analyzed by independent samples t-test, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and a post-hoc Duncan test (p < 0.05). No difference was determined between groups 3 and 5 (p > 0.05). Group 7 exhibited higher SBS values than those of groups 3 and 5 (p < 0.05). Group 1 showed higher SBSs than those of groups 3, 5 and 7 (p < 0.05). There was no significant difference between groups 4 and 6 (p > 0.05). No difference was observed between groups 2 and 4 (p > 0.05). However, group 2 presented higher SBSs than did group 6 (p < 0.05). Group 8 exhibited the highest SBS values when compared with groups 2, 4 and 6 (p < 0.05). Er:YAG laser adversely affected the adhesion of the light-curing nano-ionomer restorative to both enamel and dentin.

  11. Comparison of protective effects of safflor injection and extract of Ginkgo biloba on lung ischemia/reperfusion injury in rabbits.

    PubMed

    Tian, Xiao-xi; Wang, Bo-liang; Cao, Yi-zhan; Zhong, Yue-xia; Tu, Yan-yang; Xiao, Jian-bo; He, Qian-feng; Zhai, Li-na

    2015-03-01

    To observe the protective effects of safflor Injection (SI) and extract of Ginkgo biloba (EGB) on lung ischemia-reperfusion injury (LIRI) and investigate its mechanism. In vivo rabbit model of LIRI was reconstructed. Forty rabbits were randomly and equally divided into four groups: sham-operation group (sham group), ischemia-reperfusion group (model group), ischemia-reperfusion plus SI group (safflor group) and ischemia-reperfusion plus EGB injection group (EGB group). Malondialdehyde (MDA) content, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and xanthine oxidase (XO) activity in serum were measured. The wet/dry weight ratio (W/D) of the lung tissue and activity of myeloperoxidase (MPO) were also tested. Ultrastructure change of the lung tissue was observed by the electron microscope. The expression of intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) was measured by immunohistochemistry (IHC). In the model group, MDA and XO increased and SOD decreased in serum compared with the sham group (P<0.01). The values of W/D, MPO and ICAM-1 of the model group were higher than those of the sham group (P<0.01), but those of the safflor group and EGB group were significantly lower than those of the model group (P<0.01). The IHC demonstrated that ICAM-1 expression in lung tissue of the model group was significantly higher than those of the safflor group (P<0.01). Compared with safflor group, in the EGB group MDA, XO, MPO decreased, SOD and ICAM-1 expression increased (P<0.05), but the change of W/D was not statistically significant (P>0.05). SI and EGB may attenuate LIRI through antioxidation, inhibition of neutrophil aggregation and down-regulation of ICAM-1 expression. But EGB had more effect on the antioxidation, while SI did better on regulating ICAM-1 expression.

  12. The Effect of Early Intervention and Rehabilitation in the Expression of Aquaporin-4; and Ultrastructure Changes on Rat's Offspring's Damaged Brain Caused by Intrauterine Infection

    PubMed Central

    Rajesh, Kumar; Xiangying, Kong

    2015-01-01

    Objective To study the effect of early intervention and rehabilitation in the expression of aquaporin-4 and ultrastructure changes on cerebral palsy pups model induced by intrauterine infection. Methods 20 pregnant Wistar rats were consecutively injected with lipopolysaccharide intraperitoneally. 60 Pups born from lipopolysaccharide group were randomly divided into intervention group (n=30) and non-intervention group (n=30); intervention group further divided into early intervention and rehabilitation group (n=10), acupuncture group (n=10) and consolidate group (n=10). Another 5 pregnant rats were injected with normal saline intraperitoneally; 30 pups born from the normal saline group were taken as control group. The intervention group received early intervention, rehabilitation and acupuncture treatment. The motor functions of all pups were assessed via suspension test and modified BBB locomotor score. Aquaporin-4 expression in brain tissue was studied through immunohistochemical and western-blot analysis. Ultrastructure changes in damaged brain and control group were studied electron-microscopically. Results The scores of suspension test and modified BBB locomotor test were significantly higher in the control group than the intervention and non intervention group (p<0.01); higher in the intervention group than the non-intervention group (p<0.01). The expression of Aquaporin-4 was lower in intervention and non intervention group than in the control group (p<0.01); also lower in non-intervention group than the intervention group (p<0.01). Marked changes were observed in ultrastructure of cortex and hippocampus CAI in brain damaged group. Conclusion Early intervention and rehabilitation training can improve the motor function in offspring with brain injury and reduce the expression of aquaporin-4 in damaged brain. PMID:26279808

  13. [Single and combining effects of Calculus Bovis and zolpidem on inhibitive neurotransmitter of rat striatum corpora].

    PubMed

    Liu, Ping; He, Xinrong; Guo, Mei

    2010-04-01

    To investigate the correlation effects between single or combined administration of Calculus Bovis or zolpidem and changes of inhibitive neurotransmitter in rat striatum corpora. Sampling from rat striatum corpora was carried out through microdialysis. The content of two inhibitive neurotransmitters in rat corpus striatum- glycine (Gly) and gama aminobutyric acid (GABA), was determined by HPLC, which involved pre-column derivation with orthophthaladehyde, reversed-phase gradient elution and fluorescence detection. GABA content of rat striatum corpora in Calculus Bovis group was significantly increased compared with saline group (P < 0.01). GABA content of zolpidem group and Calculus Boris plus zolpidem group were increased largely compared with saline group as well (P < 0.05). GABA content of Calculus Bovis group was higher than combination group (P < 0.05). GABA content of zolpidem group was not significantly different from combination group. Gly content of Calculus Bovis or zolpidem group was markedly increased compared with saline group or combination group (P < 0.05). Contents of two inhibitive neurotransmitters in rat striatum corpora were all significantly increased in Calculus Bovis group, zolpidem group and combination group. The magnitude of increase was lower in combination group than in Calculus Bovis group and Zolpidem group, suggesting that Calculus Bovis promoted encephalon inhibition is more powerful than zolpidem. The increase in two inhibitive neurotransmitters did not show reinforcing effect in combination group, suggesting that Calculus Bovis and zolpidem may compete the same receptors. Therefore, combination of Calculus Bovis containing drugs and zolpidem has no clinical significance. Calculus Bovis shouldn't as an aperture-opening drugs be used for resuscitation therapy.

  14. Protective effect of ebselen on experimental testicular torsion and detorsion injury.

    PubMed

    Rifaioglu, M M; Motor, S; Davarci, I; Tuzcu, K; Sefil, F; Davarci, M; Nacar, A

    2014-12-01

    Ebselen is used as a drug in clinical trials against stroke, reperfusion injury with anti-atherosclerotic and renoprotective effects. The aim of this study is to investigate the protective effect of ebselen, on torsion/detorsion (T/D)-induced biochemical and histopathological changes in experimental testicular ischaemia/reperfusion injury. A total of 28 male Wistar Albino rats were divided into four groups: group 1(sham-operated group, n = 7), group 2(ebselen group, n = 7), group 3(torsion/detorsion + saline, n = 7) and group 4(T/D + 10 mg kg(-1) ebselen group, n = 7). The tissue homogenate samples were used for immediate nitric oxide (NO), malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione measurement. Testes in all groups were evaluated for the biochemical assay and histopathological examinations. To evaluate spermatogenesis, Johnsen scoring system was used. Testicular tissue MDA and NO levels in group 3 were significantly higher than in group 1 and 4. In histological evaluation of the testicular tissues, ebselen administration improved tubular histology significantly compared with T/D group. Significant increase in histological score was observed in the testis of group 3 compared with group 1 and 2. Histological score in group 4 significantly decreased compared with group 3. Johnson score was significantly lower in T/D group compared with all other three groups, ebselen administration increased the score significantly compared with T/D group. Ebselen reduced oxidative biochemical and histopathological damage in our testicular T/D rat model. © 2013 Blackwell Verlag GmbH.

  15. Cognitive-behavioral treatment groups for people with chronic physical illness in Hong Kong: reflections on a culturally attuned model.

    PubMed

    Wong, Daniel Fu Keung; Chau, Phyllis; Kwok, Anna; Kwan, Jackie

    2007-07-01

    This study describes and evaluates a cognitive-behavioral treatment group for people with chronic physical illness in Hong Kong. We developed a group protocol based on the understanding that Chinese people generally prefer a structured group format, expect group leaders to be active and directive, and are not used to expressing opinions and emotions in groups. The experimental and waitlist control groups had 38 and 35 participants, respectively. A standardized questionnaire was administered to all participants before and after the group treatment. Results suggest that members of the experimental group showed improvements in mental health, negative automatic thoughts, and negative emotions when compared to those in the waitlist control groups, and at the end of group treatment. Implications for designing and running a culturally attuned CBT group for Chinese people are discussed.

  16. I won't tell: Young children show loyalty to their group by keeping group secrets.

    PubMed

    Misch, Antonia; Over, Harriet; Carpenter, Malinda

    2016-02-01

    Group loyalty is highly valued. However, little is known about young children's loyal behavior. This study tested whether 4- and 5-year-olds (N=96) remain loyal to their group even when betraying it would be materially advantageous. Children and four puppets were allocated to novel groups. Two of these puppets (either in-group or out-group members) then told children a group secret and urged them not to disclose the secret. Another puppet (not assigned to either group) then bribed children with stickers to tell the secret. Across ages, children were significantly less likely to reveal the secret in the in-group condition than in the out-group condition. Thus, even young children are willing to pay a cost to be loyal to their group. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  17. Concept of grouping in partitioning of HLW for self-consistent fuel cycle

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

    Kitamoto, A.; Mulyanto

    1993-12-31

    A concept of grouping for partitioning of HLW has been developed in order to examine the possibility of a self-consistent fuel recycle. The concept of grouping of radionuclides is proposed herein, such as Group MA1 (MA below Cm), Group MA2 (Cm and higher MA), Group A ({sup 99}Tc and I), Group B (Cs and Sr) and Group R (the partitioned remain of HLW). Group B is difficult to be transmuted by neutron reaction, so a radiation application in an industrial scale should be developed in the future. Group A and Group MA1 can be burned by a thermal reactor, onmore » the other hand Group MA2 should be burned by a fast reactor. P-T treatment can be optimized for the in-core and out-core system, respectively.« less

  18. Older but wilier: In-group accountability and the development of subjective group dynamics.

    PubMed

    Abrams, Dominic; Rutland, Adam; Cameron, Lindsey; Ferrell, Jennifer

    2007-01-01

    To test social and cognitive variables that may affect the development of subjective group dynamics, the authors had 224 children between the ages of 5 and 12 years evaluate an in-group and an out-group and normative and deviant in-group members under conditions of high or low accountability to in-group peers. In-group bias and relative favorability to normative versus deviant in-group members (differential evaluation) increased when children were accountable to peers and as a function of perceptions of peer group acceptance of these members (differential inclusion). These effects were significantly larger among older children. Multiple classification ability was unrelated to judgments of group members. This study shows that the development of subjective group dynamics involves an increase in sensitivity to the normative aspects of the intergroup context. Copyright 2006 APA, all rights reserved.

  19. A comparative evaluation of APF gel, CPP/ACP paste alone and in combination with carbon dioxide laser on human enamel resistance to acid solubility using atomic absorption spectrometry: an in-vitro study.

    PubMed

    Nozari, Ali; Rafiee, Azade; Dehghan Khalili, Sara; Fekrazad, Reza

    2018-04-01

    The aim of this study was to compare the effects of acidulated phosphate fluoride (APF) gel, calcium phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate (CPP/ACP) paste alone and in combination with CO2 laser on the resistance of enamel to acid solubility. Ninety enamel sections were obtained from 15 extracted teeth and were randomly assigned to six groups: 1) control group; 2) APF group; 3) CPP-ACP group; 4) CO2 laser group; 5) APF + CO2 group; and 6) CPP-ACP + CO2 group. The specimens were individually demineralized in 0.1 M lactic acid solution with adjusted pH of 4.8 for 24h at 37 ºC. The acid solubility was determined using atomic absorption spectrometry. Statistical analysis was done using one-way ANOVA and Tukey-Kramer post hoc test (P<0.05). The average extent of calcium ion released (ppm) was estimated as follow: group 1: 6.974±1.757, group 2: 5.363±1.383, group 3: 6.962±1.489, group 4: 6.890±1.560, group 5: 4.803±1.080 and group 6: 6.789±1.218. Based on the between-group comparison results, group 2 and group 5 showed significant differences with the other groups. Under the studied conditions, only, the APF group alone and in combination with CO2 laser could decrease enamel acid solubility.

  20. Suppression of oxidative stress by grape seed supplementation in rats

    PubMed Central

    Choi, Soo-Kyong; Zhang, Xian-Hua

    2012-01-01

    Polyphenol-rich grape seeds have a beneficial effect on human health. The present study was performed to investigate the effects of grape seeds on antioxidant activities in rats. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into a control diet group (C), a high-fat diet group (HF), a 5% grape seed-supplemented control diet group (G), and a 5% grape seed-supplemented high-fat diet group (HG). Dietary supplementation with grape seeds reduced serum concentrations of lipid peroxides compared with those in the C and HF groups. The hepatic level of lipid peroxides decreased significantly in the grape seed groups compared with that in the C and HF groups. Superoxide dismutase activity in the G group increased significantly compared with that in the C group. Catalase activity tended to be higher by feeding grape seeds. The grape seed diet increased glutathione peroxidase activity in the C group. Glutathione-S-transferase activity increased significantly in the G group compared with that in the C group. Hepatic content of total glutathione increased significantly in the HG group but decreased significantly in the HF group. The ratio of reduced glutathione and oxidized glutathione increased by feeding the grape seed diet. Total vitamin A concentration was significantly higher in HG group than in other groups. Liver tocopherol content of the G and HG groups was significantly higher than that of the control groups. These results suggest that dietary supplementation with grape seeds is beneficial for suppressing lipid peroxidation in high fat-fed rats. PMID:22413034

  1. Striving for group agency: threat to personal control increases the attractiveness of agentic groups.

    PubMed

    Stollberg, Janine; Fritsche, Immo; Bäcker, Anna

    2015-01-01

    When their sense of personal control is threatened people try to restore perceived control through the social self. We propose that it is the perceived agency of ingroups that provides the self with a sense of control. In three experiments, we for the first time tested the hypothesis that threat to personal control increases the attractiveness of being part or joining those groups that are perceived as coherent entities engaging in coordinated group goal pursuit (agentic groups) but not of those groups whose agency is perceived to be low. Consistent with this hypothesis we found in Study 1 (N = 93) that threat to personal control increased ingroup identification only with task groups, but not with less agentic types of ingroups that were made salient simultaneously. Furthermore, personal control threat increased a sense of collective control and support within the task group, mediated through task-group identification (indirect effects). Turning to groups people are not (yet) part of, Study 2 (N = 47) showed that personal control threat increased relative attractiveness ratings of small groups as possible future ingroups only when the relative agency of small groups was perceived to be high. Perceived group homogeneity or social power did not moderate the effect. Study 3 (N = 78) replicated the moderating role of perceived group agency for attractiveness ratings of entitative groups, whereas perceived group status did not moderate the effect. These findings extend previous research on group-based control, showing that perceived agency accounts for group-based responses to threatened control.

  2. [Infertility in polycystic ovary syndrome treated with acupuncture and clomiphene: a randomized controlled trial].

    PubMed

    Jiang, Duosheng; Zhang, Yingchun; Wu, Xianqun; Wu, Song

    2015-02-01

    To explore the best therapy for infertility caused by polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). One hundred and twenty patients were randomized into three groups, a clomi-phene group (group A), an acupuncture-moxibustion + Chinese medicine group (group B) and a clomiphene + acupuncture-moxibustion+ Chinese medicine group (group C), 40 cases in each one. In the group A, since the 5th day of menstruation, clomiphene was prescribed for oral administration. In the group B, on the 5th day of menstruation, warm needling therapy was applied at Zhongji (CV 3), Guanyuan (CV 4), Guilai (ST 29), etc. Additionally, the Chinese herbal medication for tonifying the kidney and activating blood circulation was provided. In the group C, the therapy as the group B was combined on the basis of the treatment as the group A. The treatment lasted continuously for 3 menstrual cycles. The endometrial thickness, endometrial type and cervical mucus score on human chorionic gon adotropin (HCG) day, and ovulatory cycle rate, clinical pregnancy rate and abortion rate after treatment were observed in the patients of the three groups. 1) HCG day cervical mucus score, endometrial thickness and endometrial morphology (A type rate): the results in the group C were better than those in the group A (all P<0.01); the results in the group B were better than those in the group A (all P<0.05). The difference in the endometrial thickness was not significant in comparison between the group C and the group B (P>0.05). The cervical mucus score and endometrial morphology (A type rate) in the group C were better than those in the group B (both P<0.05). 2) The ovulatory cycle rates in the group A and group (C were higher than that in the group B (both P<0.05), the pregnancy rate in the group C was higher than that in the other groups (both P<0.05), and the early abortion rate in the group C was lower than that in the group A and group B (both P<0.01). 3) Follicle diameter from 18 mm to 20 mm and endometrial thickness: the differences were not significant between the normal pregnancy patients and the early abortion patients (both P>0.05). The endometrial morphology A type rate in the normal pregnancy patients was higher than that in the early abortion patients (P<0.05). The combined therapy of acupuncture, herbal medicine and clomiphene improves the pregnancy rate and reduces early abortion rate by effectively improving HCG day cervical mucus, endometrial thickness and morphology. The efficacy is apparently superior to the simple medication with clomiphene and the combined application of acupuncture and herbal medicine.

  3. Antifungal efficacy of natamycin in experimental fusarium solani keratitis

    PubMed Central

    Dong, Xian-Hui; Gao, Wei-Juan; He, Xiao-Ping

    2012-01-01

    AIM To evaluate the efficacy of topical administration Natamycin, which is produced by China, in an experimental rabbit model of Fusarium solani keratitis, to provide experimental basis for the application of clinical safety. METHODS Fusarium solani was induced in the right eye of 30 New Zealand rabbits. Forty-eight hours after inoculation, the animals were divided into 3 different treatment groups, 10 rabbit eyes of each group: Group 1 (Natamycin) treated with topical Natamycin, group 2 (Natacyn) treated with topical Natacyn, group 3 (control) treated with topical saline solution. The eyes of each group was examined clinically with slit lamp using ulcer scoring system on day 4, 10, 15, and 21 for status of healing, corneal vascularisation, iritis, hypopyon and macular nebula. The findings were recorded on day 10 and day 21. RESULTS Ulcer score on day 10, day 15, day 21: The score of Natamycin group are 1.45±0.16, 1.08±0.11, 0.70±0.40. The score of Natacyn group are 1.35±0.12, 1.10±0.12, 0.65±0.35. the score of control group are 1.30±0.08, 3.63±0.28, 3.80±0.16. Natamycin group and Natacyn group were different from control group (P<0.01). There is no difference between Natamycin group and Natacyn group. Status of healing on day 10 and day 21: The cure rate of the Natamycin group is 90% on day 10, and 100% on day 21. The cure rate of the Natacyn group is 80% on day 10, and 100% on day 21.Natamycin group and Natacyn group were different from control group (P<0.01). There is no difference between Natamycin group and Natacyn group. Corneal vascularisation, iritis, hypopyon and macular nebula on day 10 and day 21: in Natamycin group, the number of the eyes which have Corner vascularisation, iritis, hypopyon and macular nebula are 2,0,0,2. In Natacyn group, the number of the eyes which have Corner vascularisation, iritis, hypopyon and macular nebula are 1,0,0,2. In control group, the number of the eyes which have Corner vascularisation, iritis, hypopyon and macular nebula are 9,9,8,9.Natamycin group and Natacyn group were different from control group (P<0.01). There is no difference between Natamycin group and Natacyn group. CONCLUSION Natamycin was found to be effective in fungal keratitis, similar to Natacyn, and it can stop the corner vascularisation, iritis, hypopyon and macular nebula to happen. Natamyin manufactured in China is effective against fungal keratitis, with esay availability and low toxicity in its use. PMID:22762038

  4. Antifungal efficacy of natamycin in experimental fusarium solani keratitis.

    PubMed

    Dong, Xian-Hui; Gao, Wei-Juan; He, Xiao-Ping

    2012-01-01

    To evaluate the efficacy of topical administration Natamycin, which is produced by China, in an experimental rabbit model of Fusarium solani keratitis, to provide experimental basis for the application of clinical safety. Fusarium solani was induced in the right eye of 30 New Zealand rabbits. Forty-eight hours after inoculation, the animals were divided into 3 different treatment groups, 10 rabbit eyes of each group: Group 1 (Natamycin) treated with topical Natamycin, group 2 (Natacyn) treated with topical Natacyn, group 3 (control) treated with topical saline solution. The eyes of each group was examined clinically with slit lamp using ulcer scoring system on day 4, 10, 15, and 21 for status of healing, corneal vascularisation, iritis, hypopyon and macular nebula. The findings were recorded on day 10 and day 21. Ulcer score on day 10, day 15, day 21: The score of Natamycin group are 1.45±0.16, 1.08±0.11, 0.70±0.40. The score of Natacyn group are 1.35±0.12, 1.10±0.12, 0.65±0.35. the score of control group are 1.30±0.08, 3.63±0.28, 3.80±0.16. Natamycin group and Natacyn group were different from control group (P<0.01). There is no difference between Natamycin group and Natacyn group. Status of healing on day 10 and day 21: The cure rate of the Natamycin group is 90% on day 10, and 100% on day 21. The cure rate of the Natacyn group is 80% on day 10, and 100% on day 21.Natamycin group and Natacyn group were different from control group (P<0.01). There is no difference between Natamycin group and Natacyn group. Corneal vascularisation, iritis, hypopyon and macular nebula on day 10 and day 21: in Natamycin group, the number of the eyes which have Corner vascularisation, iritis, hypopyon and macular nebula are 2,0,0,2. In Natacyn group, the number of the eyes which have Corner vascularisation, iritis, hypopyon and macular nebula are 1,0,0,2. In control group, the number of the eyes which have Corner vascularisation, iritis, hypopyon and macular nebula are 9,9,8,9.Natamycin group and Natacyn group were different from control group (P<0.01). There is no difference between Natamycin group and Natacyn group. Natamycin was found to be effective in fungal keratitis, similar to Natacyn, and it can stop the corner vascularisation, iritis, hypopyon and macular nebula to happen. Natamyin manufactured in China is effective against fungal keratitis, with esay availability and low toxicity in its use.

  5. An in vitro evaluation of various irrigation techniques for the removal of double antibiotic paste from root canal surfaces

    PubMed Central

    GOKTURK, Hakan; OZKOCAK, Ismail; BUYUKGEBİZ, Fevzi; DEMİR, Osman

    2016-01-01

    ABSTRACT Objective The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of conventional syringe irrigations, passive ultrasonic irrigation (PUI), Vibringe, CanalBrush, XP-endo Finisher, and laser-activated irrigation (LAI) systems in removing double antibiotic paste (DAP) from root canals. Material and Methods One hundred five extracted single-rooted teeth were instrumented. The roots were split longitudinally. Three standard grooves were created and covered with DAP. The roots were distributed into seven groups: Group 1, beveled needle irrigation; Group 2, double side-vented needle irrigation; Group 3, CanalBrush; Group 4, XP-endo Finisher; Group 5, Vibringe; Group 6, PUI; Group 7, LAI. The amount of remaining DAP was scored under a stereomicroscope. Results Group 4, Group 6, and Group 7 removed significantly more DAP than the other protocols in the coronal region. Group 7 was more efficient in the middle region; however, no significant difference was found between Group 7 and Group 6. No differences were found between groups in the apical region either, except for the comparisons between groups 7 and 2, and groups 2 and 3. Conclusions None of the investigated protocols were able to completely remove the DAP from the grooves. The Vibringe and XP-endo Finisher systems showed results similar to those of conventional needle irrigation. PMID:28076461

  6. [Establishment of animal model of temporomandibular joint synovitis and its histological investigation].

    PubMed

    Chen, Cai-Yun; Ding, Yin; Liu, Ya-Jing; Zhang, Ya-Bo

    2010-02-01

    To establish a stable animal model of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) synovitis. Sixteen 6-week-old male SD rats were classified into four groups, control group, occlusal dimension increase group, masseter resection group, occlusal dimension increase group and masseter resection group. The rats in the occlusal dimension increase group were adhered composite resin to their maxillary molars in order to increase the occlusal vertical dimension when they were 9-week-old. The rats in the masseter resection group were cut off their bilateral masseter muscles when they were 6-week-old. In the occlusal dimension increase group and masseter resection group, rats' bilateral masseter muscles were resected and occlusal vertical dimension was increased. All rats were sacrificed at their 10 weeks old. TMJ samples were prepared for histology to evaluate the animal model. The control group showed non-inflammatory changes. The occlusal dimension increase group and the masseter resection group showed vascular dilation and synovial lining proliferation, but there were no statistically significant differences between the two groups (P > 0.05). Compared to the two disposed groups, the occlusal dimension increase group and masseter resection group showed significant inflammatory changes (P < 0.05), including synovial lining proliferation, vascular dilation and fibrin deposit. The animal model of TMJ synovitis created in the present investigation could simulate the real pathological features of synovitis in vivo, and this animal model showed the obvious merits of high stability and reproduction.

  7. Neural network integration during the perception of in-group and out-group members.

    PubMed

    Greven, Inez M; Ramsey, Richard

    2017-11-01

    Group biases guide social interactions by promoting in-group favouritism, but the neural mechanisms underpinning group biases remain unclear. While neuroscience research has shown that distributed brain circuits are associated with seeing in-group and out-group members as "us" and "them", it is less clear how these networks exchange signals. This fMRI study uses functional connectivity analyses to investigate the contribution of functional integration to group bias modulation of person perception. Participants were assigned to an arbitrary group and during scanning they observed bodies of in-group or out-group members that cued the recall of positive or negative social knowledge. The results showed that functional coupling between perceptual and cognitive neural networks is tuned to particular combinations of group membership and social knowledge valence. Specifically, coupling between body perception and theory-of-mind networks is biased towards seeing a person that had previously been paired with information consistent with group bias (positive for in-group and negative for out-group). This demonstrates how brain regions associated with visual analysis of others and belief reasoning exchange and integrate signals when evaluating in-group and out-group members. The results update models of person perception by showing how and when interplay occurs between perceptual and extended systems when developing a representation of another person. Copyright © 2017 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

  8. Active versus receptive group music therapy for major depressive disorder-A pilot study.

    PubMed

    Atiwannapat, Penchaya; Thaipisuttikul, Papan; Poopityastaporn, Patchawan; Katekaew, Wanwisa

    2016-06-01

    To compare the effects of 1) active group music therapy and 2) receptive group music therapy to group counseling in treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD). On top of standard care, 14 MDD outpatients were randomly assigned to receive 1) active group music therapy (n=5), 2) receptive group music therapy (n=5), or 3) group counseling (n=4). There were 12 one-hour weekly group sessions in each arm. Participants were assessed at baseline, 1 month (after 4 sessions), 3 months (end of interventions), and 6 months. Primary outcomes were depressive scores measured by Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) Thai version. Secondary outcomes were self-rated depression score and quality of life. At 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months, both therapy groups showed statistically non-significant reduction in MADRS Thai scores when compared with the control group (group counseling). The reduction was slightly greater in the active group than the receptive group. Although there were trend toward better outcomes on self-report depression and quality of life, the differences were not statistically significant. Group music therapy, either active or receptive, is an interesting adjunctive treatment option for outpatients with MDD. The receptive group may reach peak therapeutic effect faster, but the active group may have higher peak effect. Group music therapy deserves further comprehensive studies. Copyright © 2016 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

  9. Low-frequency group exercise improved the motor functions of community-dwelling elderly people in a rural area when combined with home exercise with self-monitoring

    PubMed Central

    Matsubayashi, Yoshito; Asakawa, Yasuyoshi; Yamaguchi, Haruyasu

    2016-01-01

    [Purpose] This study examined whether low-frequency group exercise improved the motor functions of community-dwelling elderly people in a rural area when combined with home exercise with self-monitoring. [Subjects] The subjects were community-dwelling elderly people in a rural area of Japan. [Methods] One group (n = 50) performed group exercise combined with home exercise with self-monitoring. Another group (n = 37) performed group exercise only. Low-frequency group exercise (warm-up, exercises for motor functions, and cool-down) was performed in seven 40 to 70-minute sessions over 9 weeks by both groups. Five items of motor functions were assessed before and after the intervention. [Results] Significant interactions were observed between groups and assessment times for all motor functions. Improvements in motor functions were significantly greater in the group that performed group exercise combined with home exercise with self-monitoring than in the group that performed group exercise only. Post-hoc comparisons revealed significant differences in 3 items of motor functions. No significant improvements were observed in motor functions in the group that performed group exercise only. [Conclusions] Group exercise combined with home exercise with self-monitoring improved motor functions in the setting of low-frequency group exercise for community-dwelling elderly people in a rural area. PMID:27065520

  10. [Protection and bidirectional effect of rhubarb anthraquinone and tannins for rats' liver].

    PubMed

    Qin, Lu-shan; Zhao, Hai-ping; Zhao, Yan-ling; Ma, Zhi-jiel; Zeng, Ling-na; Zhang, Ya-ming; Zhang, Ping; Yan, Dan; Bai, Zhao-fang; Li, Yue; Hao, Qing-xiu; Zhao, Kui-jun; Wang, Jia-bo; Xiao, Xiao-he

    2014-06-01

    To compare the bidirectional effect of rhubarb total anthraquinone (TA) and total tannins (TT) on rats' liver. One hundred rats were randomly divided into 10 groups, i.e., the blank group, the model group, the blank + high dose TA group, the blank +low dose TA group, the blank + high dose TT group, the blank + low dose TT group, the model + high dose TA group, the model + low dose TA group, the model +high dose TT group, and the model + low dose TT group, 10 in each group. The carbon tetrachloride (CCI4) was used to prepare the acute liver injury rat model. TA and TT of rhubarb (at 5.40 g crude drugs/kg and 14.69 g crude drugs/kg) were intragastrically administrated to rats in all groups except the blank group and the model group, once daily for 6 successive days.The general state of rats, biochemical indices such as alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), laminin (LN), hyaluronic acid (HA), transforming growth factor beta1 (TGF-beta1), as well pathological results of rat liver tissues. Finally the protection laws of TA and TT for rats' liver were analyzed using factor analysis. Compared with the blank control group, all biochemical indices increased in the blank group (P < 0.05, P < 0.01). HA also increased in the blank + high dose TA group; AST, ALT, and HA also increased in the blank +high dose TT group (P < 0.05). Compared with the model group, AST, ALT, ALP, HA, and TGF-beta1 significantly decreased in the model + low dose TA group, the model + high dose TA group, the model + low dose TT group (P < 0.05, P < 0.01). Serum AST, ALT, and ALP also decreased in the model + high dose TT group (P < 0.05, P < 0.01). Pathological results showed that mild swollen liver cells in the model + high dose TA group. Fatty degeneration and fragmental necrosis around the central veins occurred in the blank + high dose TA group. The pathological injury was inproved in the model +low dose TA group. Two common factors, liver fibrosis and liver cell injury, were extracted by using factor analysis. TA showed stronger improvement of the two common factors than TT. Rhubarb TA and TT showed protective and harmful effects on rats' liver. At an equivalent dosage, TA had better liver protection than TT. High dose TT played a role in liver injury to some extent.

  11. Combination of Saxagliptin and Metformin Is Effective as Initial Therapy in New-Onset Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus With Severe Hyperglycemia.

    PubMed

    Amblee, Ambika; Lious, Daniel; Fogelfeld, Leon

    2016-06-01

    The efficacy/safety of combination oral agents in those with stable newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes (T2DM) with severe hyperglycemia is unknown. The objective of the study was to assess glycemic and β-cell outcomes of two oral regimens. This was an open-label, randomized controlled trial with patients enrolled from 2011 through 2014 and followed up for 12 weeks. The study was conducted at a major public hospital in Chicago. One hundred adults with newly diagnosed T2DM and severe hyperglycemia (300-450 mg/dL) participated in the study. One hundred patients were randomized to receive Kombiglyze XR (saxagliptin 5 mg/metformin 2000 mg) daily (K group) vs glipizide XL 10 mg daily (G group). The measure was to maintain fasting/premeal glucose of less than 300 mg/dL up to 6 weeks and less than 250 mg/dL after 6 weeks until study end, and to have no return acute care-site visits. Those not meeting criteria were discontinued. Other outcomes included continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) and β-cell function estimates at start and study end. Baseline characteristics and primary outcome (K group 94%, G group 98%) were similar in both groups. The enrollment glucose (K group 343 mg/dL, G group 341 mg/dL) and glycated hemoglobin (K group 10.8%, G group 11%) declined by week 12 (K group 137 mg/dL, G group 129 mg/dL, and K group 6.8%, G group 6.9%), respectively. Homeostasis model assessment to assess basal insulin secretion and early insulin response improved severalfold (K group ×5.8, G group ×5.9, and K group ×9.5, G group ×13.1). In follow-up, the incidence of hypoglycemia was lower in the K group (self-monitored blood glucose: K group 8.0%, G group 24%; CGM: K group 20%, G group 46.5%) as were the number of episodes of hypoglycemia (self-monitored blood glucose: K group 4 in 12 weeks, G group 27 in 12 weeks; CGM: K group 0.28 per 24 h, G group 0.31 per 24 h). Kombiglyze XR and glipizide XL are efficacious in improving glycemia and β-cell function in stable newly diagnosed T2DM with severe hyperglycemia. The K group had less hypoglycemia. These results suggest that certain oral medications could be appropriate alternatives in treating severe hyperglycemia.

  12. Evaluation of efficacy of topical povidone-iodine and different types of fluoroquinolones in the sterilization of bacterial flora on the conjunctiva.

    PubMed

    Coskun, Mehmet; Altintas, Ayse Gul Kocak; Anayol, Mustafa Alpaslan; Raza, Sabri; Celikbilek, Nevreste; Simsek, Saban

    2011-12-01

    To compare the sterilization effectivity of topical povidone-iodine, ciprofloxacin, and ofloxacin on the conjunctival bacterial flora. One hundred sixty-four eyes of 164 patients scheduled for cataract surgery were prospectively analyzed. Conjunctival cultures were obtained 1 day before the surgery without any topical application in all patients. Conjunctival flora was examined in 53 eyes of 53 patients (Group I) 15 min after 5% topical povidone-iodine application on the day of the surgery. Fifty-four eyes of 54 patients (Group II) received 1 drop 0.3% ciprofloxacin at 12 pm 1 day before the operation and 4 drops at 15 min intervals on the day of the surgery. Another 57 eyes of 57 patients (Group III) received 0.3% ofloxacin in the same application mode as ciprofloxacin. Conjunctival cultures were taken in all patients 15 min after last drop of topical antibiotic application. Only coagulase-negative staphylococci were isolated from 75.4% in Group I, 72.2% in Group II, and 59.6% in Group III on pretreatment culture. Different types of bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, Proteus spp., Micrococcus spp. were identified in other patients. Pretreatment conjunctival flora of Group I and Group II were similar (P>0.05), but it was significantly different in Group III (P<0.05). After topical application no bacterial growth was observed in 77.3% in Group I, 92.5% in Group II, and 66.6% in Group III. The difference between Group I and III was insignificant (P>0.05), but bacterial eradication effectiveness was significantly higher in Group II than that of other groups (P<0.05). Post-treatment cultures showed same bacterial flora as pretreatment cultures in 14.9% in Group I, 1.8% in Group II, and 19.2% in Group III. The difference between Group I and Group III was statistically insignificant (P>0.05) and the difference between Group II and other groups was statistically significant (P<0.05). Four eyes (7.5%) showed different types of bacterial growth from pretreatment flora in Group I, which were seen in 3 eyes (5.5%) in Group II and in 8 eyes (14%) in Group III. The differences between groups were statistically insignificant (P>0.05). Ciprofloxacin seems to be more effective in conjunctival sterilization. In consideration with high variety of bacterial flora in pretreatment period in ofloxacin group, ofloxacin seems to be superior to povidone-iodine on the reduction of bacterial flora on the conjunctiva.

  13. --No Title--

    Science.gov Websites

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  14. A comparison of the effects of epidural and spinal anesthesia with ischemia-reperfusion injury on the rat transverse rectus abdominis musculocutaneous flap.

    PubMed

    Acar, Yusuf; Bozkurt, Mehmet; Firat, Ugur; Selcuk, Caferi Tayyar; Kapi, Emin; Isik, Fatma Birgul; Kuvat, Samet Vasfi; Celik, Feyzi; Bozarslan, Beri Hocaoglu

    2013-11-01

    The purpose of this study is to compare the effects of spinal and epidural anesthesia on a rat transverse rectus abdominus myocutaneous flap ischemia-reperfusion injury model.Forty Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into 4 experimental groups: group I (n = 10), sham group; group II (n = 10), control group; group III (n = 10), epidural group; and group IV (n = 10), spinal group. After the elevation of the transverse rectus abdominus myocutaneous flaps, all groups except for the sham group were subjected to normothermic no-flow ischemia for 4 hours, followed by a reperfusion period of 2 hours. At the end of the reperfusion period, biochemical and histopathological evaluations were performed on tissue samples.Although there was no significant difference concerning the malonyldialdehyde, nitric oxide, and paraoxonase levels in the spinal and epidural groups, the total antioxidant state levels were significantly increased, and the total oxidative stress levels were significantly decreased in the epidural group in comparison to the spinal group. The pathological evaluation showed that findings related to inflammation, nuclear change rates and hyalinization were significantly higher in the spinal group compared with the epidural group.Epidural anesthesia can be considered as a more suitable method that enables a decrease in ischemia-reperfusion injuries in the muscle flaps.

  15. Are temporomandibular disorders associated with habitual sleeping body posture or nasal septal deviation?

    PubMed

    Yalçınkaya, Esin; Cingi, Cemal; Bayar Muluk, Nuray; Ulusoy, Seçkin; Hanci, Deniz

    2016-01-01

    Numerous factors can be considered for the etiology of temporomandibular disorders (TMD). The aim of the present study was to investigate whether the presence of both nasal septal deviation (NSD) and habitual prone sleeping posture (HPSP) predisposes TMD. We evaluated 200 subjects in 4 groups. Group I (NSD-, HPSP-/control group), Group II (NSD+, HPSP-), Group III (NSD-, HPSP+), Group IV (NSD+, HPSP+). All patients were examined according to the research diagnostic criteria to determine the presence of TMD. Group IV had the highest value for TMD incidence (44 %). Thus, we found that the presence of both NSD and HPSP parameters increased TMD incidence in Group IV compared to the control group (p = 0.000). Additionally, Group IV showed significantly higher values than Group II (p = 0.012) and Group III (p = 0.039). For Group III (NSD-, HPSP+), TMD was determined higher compared to the control group (p = 0.009). A statistically higher value of presence of TMD was determined in Group II (NSD+, HPSP-) than control group (p = 0.029). The incidence of TMD was significantly higher in women than men (p = 0.020). We concluded that one having an unilateral obstructive nasal septal deviation in addition to a habit of sleeping in prone position must be alert for potential TMD.

  16. Endothelial function and its relationship to leptin, homocysteine, and insulin resistance in lean and overweight eumenorrheic women and PCOS patients: a pilot study.

    PubMed

    Mancini, Fulvia; Cianciosi, Arianna; Reggiani, Giulio Marchesini; Facchinetti, Fabio; Battaglia, Cesare; de Aloysio, Domenico

    2009-06-01

    To verify if patients with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), have an increased cardiovascular risk compared with healthy controls. Prospective case-control study. University-based practice. Twenty eumenorrheic controls (ten lean [group A] and ten overweight [group B]) and 24 PCOS women (14 lean [group C] and ten overweight [group D]). Cardiovascular risk markers and hormonal parameters were assessed. Androgens, fasting glucose, insulin, leptin, fibrinogen, homocysteine, endothelin-1 and flow-mediated dilatation of the brachial artery were measured to investigate their relationship to weight and to PCOS. The brachial artery diameter and the pulsatility index, after the reactive hyperemia, showed in group A the most intense vasodilatation compared with the other groups. Homocysteine levels did not differ among the groups. Endothelin-1 was significantly higher in group A compared with groups B and D. Leptin was significantly lower in groups A and C compared with groups B and D. Insulin resistance was higher in groups B and D. Group A had significantly higher glucose-insulin ratio compared with all of the other groups; group C had significantly higher glucose-insulin ratio only compared with group D. Weight and PCOS are two independent variables affecting the endothelial function.

  17. Group rational-emotive and cognitive-behavioral therapy.

    PubMed

    Ellis, A

    1992-01-01

    The theory of rational-emotive therapy (RET) and of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is briefly explained and is applied to group therapy. It is shown how RET and CBT therapy groups deal with transference, countertransference, levels of group intervention, process versus content orientation, identifying underlying group process themes, here-and-now activation, working with difficult group members, activity levels of therapist and group members, and other group problems. Although they particularly concentrate on people's tendencies to construct and create their own "emotional" difficulties, RET and CBT group procedures fully acknowledge the interactions of human thoughts, feelings, and actions and active-directively employ a variety of cognitive, emotive, and behavioral group therapy techniques.

  18. [Use of "gelatamp" colloidal silver gelatin sponge to prevent dry socket after extracting mandibular impacted teeth].

    PubMed

    Wang, Yao-zhong; Guan, Qun-li; Li, Ya-xin; Guo, Ji-lai; Jiang, Ling; Jia, Mu-yun; Deng, Yue

    2013-02-01

    To study the clinical effect of "gelatamp" colloidal silver gelatin sponge on preventing dry socket after extracting the mandibular impacted teeth. 1350 teeth extracted from 976 patients who needed to extract the mandibular impacted teeth were divided into group A, group B and group C randomly. "Gelatamp" colloidal silver gelatin sponge was implanted into alveolar socket after teeth extraction in group A, with absorbable gelatin sponge was implanted into alveolar socket in group B and nothing was implanted into alveolar socket in group C. The incidence of dry socket was observed, the data was analyzed using SPSS10.0 software package. The incidence of dry socket was 0.44% in group A, 2% in group B and 4.44% in group C. There was significant difference in the incidence of dry socket between group A and group C(P<0.01). There was also significant difference between group B and group C(P<0.05) and between group A and group B(P<0.05). The results demonstrate that "gelatamp" colloidal silver gelatin sponge can prevent the occurrence of dry socket after teeth extraction, which is of wide clinical use.

  19. N-acetylcysteine supplementation reduces oxidative stress for cytosine arabinoside in rat model.

    PubMed

    Balci, Yasemin Isik; Acer, Semra; Yagci, Ramazan; Kucukatay, Vural; Sarbay, Hakan; Bozkurt, Kerem; Polat, Aziz

    2017-02-01

    Cytosine arabinoside (ARA-C) is a pyrimidine analog that may cause keratoconjunctivitis when used in high doses. The underlying mechanism may be the increased amounts of reactive oxygen radicals that may damage the DNA synthesis of corneal and conjunctival epithelial cells. Topical corticosteroids are one of the prophylactic treatments for keratoconjunctivitis induced by ARA-C. Forty Wistar-type albino rats were included in this study the rats were divided into four groups. The first group (Group 1) received only ARA-C, the second group (Group 2) received ARA-C and N-acetylcysteine (NAC), the third group (Group 3) received only NAC and the fourth group (Group 4) was the control group. The total oxidant status (TOS), the total antioxidant capacity and the oxidative stress index (OSI) measurements of the cornea and the conjunctiva were evaluated in these four groups. The mean TOS and OSI value was the highest in Group 1 and the lowest in Group 3. The differences in TOS and OSI values were statistically significant between Group 1 and Group 2. There are decreases in TOS and OSI values in rats which received ARA-C with NAC administration. NAC may have a protective effect on ARA-C-induced keratoconjunctivitis.

  20. Pathologic changes of wound tissue in rats with stage III pressure ulcers treated by transplantation of human amniotic epithelial cells.

    PubMed

    Zheng, Xilan; Jiang, Zhixia; Zhou, Aiting; Yu, Limei; Quan, Mingtao; Cheng, Huagang

    2015-01-01

    This study aims to determine the impact of orthotopic transplantation of human amniotic epithelial cells (hAECs) on the pathologic changes of wound tissues in a self-prepared rat stage III pressure ulcer model. Ninety-six SD rats were randomly divided into the model group (group M), hAEC transplantation group (group H), traditional treatment group (group T), and the control group (group C), with 24 rats in each group. The wound healing time was observed in 6 rats from each group, and 6 rats of each group were selected for post-modeling on day(s) (D) 1, 3, and 7 for HE staining to compare the pathological changes. The healing time of group H was significantly shorter than the other three groups. Moreover, pathological observations revealed that group H exhibited significant proliferation of fibrous tissues and vessels in the dermal layer, and the appearance time and degree of skin appendages were significantly greater than that observed in the other three groups. Pathological observations showed that hAEC transplantation could significantly speed up the healing of stage III pressure ulcer.

  1. Group X

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

    Fields, Susannah

    2007-08-16

    This project is currently under contract for research through the Department of Homeland Security until 2011. The group I was responsible for studying has to remain confidential so as not to affect the current project. All dates, reference links and authors, and other distinguishing characteristics of the original group have been removed from this report. All references to the name of this group or the individual splinter groups has been changed to 'Group X'. I have been collecting texts from a variety of sources intended for the use of recruiting and radicalizing members for Group X splinter groups for themore » purpose of researching the motivation and intent of leaders of those groups and their influence over the likelihood of group radicalization. This work included visiting many Group X websites to find information on splinter group leaders and finding their statements to new and old members. This proved difficult because the splinter groups of Group X are united in beliefs, but differ in public opinion. They are eager to tear each other down, prove their superiority, and yet remain anonymous. After a few weeks of intense searching, a list of eight recruiting texts and eight radicalizing texts from a variety of Group X leaders were compiled.« less

  2. [Repair of spinal cord injury with rats' umbilical cord MSCs].

    PubMed

    Zhu, Yuhai; Feng, Shiqing; Wang, Xue

    2009-12-01

    To study the growth characteristics of umbilical cord MSCs (UCMSCs) in vitro and its effect on the nerve regeneration after spinal cord injury (SCI). UCMSCs isolated from pregnant rats umbilical cord were cultured and purified in vitro. Sixty female Wistar rats weighing (300 +/- 10) g were randomized into three groups (n=20 per group). UCMSCs group (group A) in which UCMSCs suspension injection was conducted; DMEM control group (group B) in which 10% DMEM injection was conducted; sham group (group C) in which the animal received laminectomy only. Establish acute SCI model (T10) by Impactor model-II device in group A and group B. The recovery of the lower extremity was observed using BBB locomotor scoring system, neurofilament 200 (NF-200) immunofluorescence staining was performed to detect the neural regeneration, and then the corticospinal tract (CST) was observed using the biotinylated dextran amine (BDA) tracing. Cultured UCMSCs were spindle-shaped fibrocyte-like adherent growth, swirling or parallelly. The USMSCs expressed CD29, but not CD31, CD45, and HLA-DR. The BBB score was higher in group A than group B 4, 5, and 6 weeks after operation, and there was a significant difference between two groups (P < 0.05). The BBB scores at different time points were significantly lower in groups A and B than that in group C (P < 0.05). UCMSCs was proved to survive and assemble around the injured place by frozen section of the cords 6 weeks after injury. NF-200 positive response area in groups A, B, and C was (11,943 +/- 856), (7,986 +/- 627), and (13,117 +/- 945) pixels, respectively, suggesting there was a significant difference between groups A, C and group B (P < 0.05), and no significant difference was evident between group A and group C (P > 0.05). BDA anterograde tracing 10 weeks after operation demonstrated that more regenerated nerve fibers went through injured area in group A, but just quite few nerve fibers in group B went through the injuried cavity. The ratios of regenerative axons amount to T5 axons in group A and group B were smaller than that of group C (P < 0.05). UCMSCs can proliferate rapidly in vitro, survive and differentiate to neurons after being grafted into injured spinal cord. The transplantation of UCMSCs is effective in promoting functional recovery and axonal regeneration after SCI.

  3. Outcomes 18 years after implementation of a nonoperative caries preventive program--the Nexö-method--on children in Moscow, Russia.

    PubMed

    Kuzmina, Irina; Ekstrand, Kim R

    2015-08-01

    To report the long-term effect (18 years) of the Nexö-method, initially implemented in groups of children in Moscow in 1994. Three groups of children were included in the initial study in 1994. This study is a follow-up study of two of the three initial groups: a group of 6-year-olds (test group6 ; control group6 ) and a group of 11-year-olds (test group11 , control group11) , n = 50 individuals in each of the four subgroups. In 2012, >80% of the participants in the two groups (now aged 24 and 28 years old) were re-examined by the original examiner, who was blinded to which group the patients had belonged in the initial study. After re-examination, the participants were interviewed by a person not otherwise attached to the study. Finally, caries data were collected from 100 24-year-olds and 100 28-year-olds who attended the dental school (50%) and private clinic (50%) in Moscow (External control groups24,28 ). The outcome variables of the study were plaque and gingival status, and DMFT/S. In 2012, the control groups24,28 displayed significantly higher plaque scores than the test groups24,28 (P-values < 0.05). No differences were seen regarding gingivitis scores (P-values > 0.41). Mean DMFT/S in 2012 was test group24 = 6.98/10.51, control group24 = 8.84/13.14 (P = 0.02/0.06). External control group24 = 8.89/15.86 (test24 versus external control group24 , P = 0.01/0.007; control24 versus external control group24 , P = 0.94/0.16). Test group28 = 6.74/10.83, control group28 = 8.70/14.48 (P = 0.02/0.008). External control group28 = 9.03/18.06 (test28 versus external control28 , P = 0.03/0.001; control28 versus external control28 , P = 0.68/0.07). The interview indicated that the participants in the test groups were more aware of factors that are considered important for control of caries than participants in the control groups. The data from this group of Moscow citizens suggest a long-term positive effect of the Nexö-method implemented during childhood. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  4. Efficacy of a New Recrystallized Enrofloxacin Hydrochloride-Dihydrate against Leptospirosis in a Hamster Model.

    PubMed

    Carrascosa, Alma; Gutierrez, Lilia; De la Peña, Alejandro; Candanosa, Irma E; Tapia, Graciela; Sumano, Hector

    2017-11-01

    A trial on Syrian hamsters ( Mesocricetus auratus ) infected with Leptospira interrogans serovar Canicola was established to compare treatment efficacies of daily intramuscular (i.m.) injections of either 10 mg/kg of 5% enrofloxacin (Baytril [BE]; Bayer Animal Health, Mexico) or the same dose of enrofloxacin hydrochloride-dihydrate (enro-C). Hamsters were experimentally infected via the oral submucosa with 400 microorganisms/animal, in a sequential time schedule aligned to the initial treatment day, and were treated in groups as follows: a group treated with 5% enrofloxacin daily for 7 days after 24 h of infection (group BE 24 ); a group treated as described for group BE 24 but with enro-C (enro-C 24 ); a group also treated with 5% enrofloxacin but starting at 72 h after infection (BE 74 ); a group treated as described for group BE 74 but with injection of enro-C (enro-C 74 ). An untreated-uninfected control group (group CG - ) and an infected-untreated control group (group CG + ) were assembled ( n = 18 in all groups). Weights and temperatures of the hamsters were monitored daily for 28 days. After hamsters were euthanatized or following death, necropsy, histopathology, macroscopic agglutination tests (MAT), bacterial culture, and PCR were performed. The mortality rates were 38.8% in group BE 24 and 100% in group BE 74 No mortality was observed in group enro-C 24 , and 11.1% mortality was recorded in group enro-C 74 The mortality rates in groups CG + and CG - were 100% and zero, respectively. Combined necropsy and histopathologic findings revealed signs of septicemia and organ damage in groups BE 24 , BE 72 , and CG + Groups enro-C 24 and CG - showed no lesions. Moderated lesions were registered in 3 hamsters in group enro-C 72 MAT results were positive in 83.3% of BE 24 hamsters (83.3%) and 100% of BE 72 and CG + hamsters; MAT results were positive in 16.7% in group Enro-C 24 and 38.9% in group enro-C 72 Only 4/18 were PCR positive in group enro-C 72 and only 1 in group enro-C 24 ( P < 0.05). It can be concluded that enro-C may be a viable option to treat leptospirosis in hamsters and that this may be the case in other species. Copyright © 2017 American Society for Microbiology.

  5. [Impacts of early metoprolol intervention on connexin 43 and phosphorylated connexin 43 expression in rabbits with experimental myocardial infarction].

    PubMed

    Zhou, M; Lu, Q; Jiang, J Q; Chen, Z N; Gong, Z G; Li, Z G; Fu, W W; Ding, S F

    2017-04-24

    Objective: To investigate the early intervention effects of metoprolol on connexin 43(Cx43) and phosphorylated Cx43 (p-Cx43) expression in rabbits with post myocardial infarction. Methods: A total of 24 adult male New Zealand white rabbits were divided into sham group ( n =6), early treatment group( n =6), routine treatment group( n =6), and myocardial infarction group( n =6) with a randomized block design blocked by weight. Myocardial infarction was induced by left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD) ligation. Rabbits in sham group received similar surgical procedure without LAD ligation. Metoprolol (12.5 mg/kg dissolved in 2 ml distilled water) was applied to rabbits in early treatment group and routine treatment group per gavage immediately after recovery from anesthesia and at 24 hours after myocardial infarction, respectively, then treated daily for 40 days. Rabbits in sham group and myocardial infarction group received 2 ml distilled water per gavage daily for 40 days. Plasma lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and creatine kinase (CK) level were detected by automatic biochemistry analyzer after 6 hours in all rabbits. Ventricular fibrillation threshold (VFT) was measured in vivo by bipolar pacing electrodes at 40 days. Cx43 and p-Cx43 distribution in ventricular tissue was detected by immunofluorescence analyses. Cx43 and p-Cx43 protein level in ventricular tissue was determined by Western blot. Results: (1) Plasma LDH ((851.7±85.9)U/L vs. (332.3±39.6)U/L, P <0.01) and CK ((1 192.7±105.3)U/L vs. (462.3±65.6)U/L, P <0.01) were significantly higher in myocardial infarction group than in sham group (both P <0.01). (2) VFT was significantly lower in myocardial infarction group than that in sham group ((470.0±91.0) beats per minute vs. (683.3±60.9) beats per minute, P <0.05), and VFT was significantly higher in early treatment group ((633.3±43.2) beats per minute) and routine treatment group ((645.0±30.8) beats per minute) than in the myocardial infarction group (both P <0.05). (3) Immunofluorescence analyses showed that Cx43 was mainly localized in the intercalated disk, which was perpendicular to the cell long axis with linear arrangement, and less lateral distribution in sham group, early treatment group and routine treatment group, which was significantly different as the case in the myocardial infarction group. The expression of p-Cx43 in myocardial infarction group was less than in sham group, which was significantly upregulated in in early treatment group and routine treatment group when compared with myocardial infarction group, and expression of p-Cx43 was significantly higher in early treatment group than in routine treatment group. (4)The p-Cx43/Cx43 ratio of protein was significantly lower in myocardial infarction group than in sham group (0.165±0.011 vs. 0.363±0.046, P <0.05), and significantly higher in early treatment group (0.720±0.063) and routine treatment group (0.364±0.030) than in myocardial infarction group (both P <0.05), and this ratio was significantly higher in early treatment group than in routine treatment group ( P <0.05). Conclusion: Metoprolol treatment, especially the early metoprolol treatment (within 24 hours after LAD ligation), could significantly improve VFT by ameliorating the distribution and dephosphorylation of myocardial Cx43 in rabbits with experimental myocardial infarction.

  6. [Clinical study of high intensity focused ultrasound ablation combined with GnRH-a and LNG-IUS for the treatment of adenomyosis].

    PubMed

    Ye, M Z; Deng, X L; Zhu, X G; Xue, M

    2016-09-25

    Objective: To investigate the clinical effect of dysmenorrhea in patients with adenomyosis treated by high intensity focused ultrasound(HIFU)ablation combined with gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist(GnRH-a)and levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system(LNG-IUS). Methods: From April 2012 to December 2015, 477 cases of adenomyosis patients with dysmenorrhea were treated by HIFU in the Third Xiangya Hospital. Among them, some patients were treated with HIFU alone, some of them were treated with HIFU combined with GnRH-a and(or)LNG-IUS, thus were classified as H group, H+G group, H+M group and H+G+M group. The improvements of clinical results were compared among the four groups and the influencing factors of HIFU treatment for adenomyosis were also analyzed. Results: During the follow-up period, the overall effective rates of the treatment decreased with time, 3 months 89.4%(345/386), 12 months 84.0%(221/263), 24 months 74.2%(98/132), and the overall recurrence rate was 12.9%(39/303). The significant difference in the curative at 3 months[H group 83.7%(170/203), H+M group 95.0%(95/100), H+G group 100.0%(43/43), H+G+M group 96.8%(30/31)], 12 months[H group 79.4%(123/155), H+M group 93.2%(69/74), H+G group 11/12, H+G+M group 15/17], and 24 months[H group 68.0%(51/75), H+M group 96.4%(27/28), H+G group 6/12, H+G+M group 15/15]after HIFU treatment and recurrence rate[H group 19.0%(29/153), H+M group 3.3%(3/90), H+G group 19.4%(6/31), H+G+M group 4.5%(1/22)]were observed among the four groups( P <0.05). Pairwise comparison further showed that, in 3 months after the treatment, the effect of H group was significantly lower than those of H+M group and H+G group( P = 0.003, P =0.005); in 12 months after the treatment, the effect of H group was significantly lower than that of H+M group( P =0.006); while in 24 months after treatment, the effect of H group was significantly lower than that of H+G+M group( P =0.005), and the effect of H+G group was lower than that of H+G+M group( P = 0.001); and the recurrence rate of H group was significantly higher than that of H+M group( P <0.008). In patients of group H, the effect of HIFU was related to uterine size, the effect of patients with large uterine volume was significantly higher than that of small volume of uterine of patients( P =0.017, OR =2.739, 95% CI : 1.200- 6.251); with increasing of age, the improvement of dysmenorrhea had a increasing trend( P <0.05). Conclusions: HIFU combined with GnRH-a and(or)LNG-IUS could improve the treatment effect in relief of dysmenorrhea. Based on our results, individual treatment protocol should be selected for different patients.

  7. Oral purgative and simethicone before small bowel capsule endoscopy

    PubMed Central

    Rosa, Bruno Joel Ferreira; Barbosa, Mara; Magalhães, Joana; Rebelo, Ana; Moreira, Maria João; Cotter, José

    2013-01-01

    AIM: To evaluate small bowel cleansing quality, diagnostic yield and transit time, comparing three cleansing protocols prior to capsule endoscopy. METHODS: Sixty patients were prospectively enrolled and randomized to one of the following cleansing protocols: patients in Group A underwent a 24 h liquid diet and overnight fasting; patients in Group B followed protocol A and subsequently were administered 2 L of polyethylene glycol (PEG) the evening before the procedure; patients in Group C followed protocol B and were additionally administered 100 mg of simethicone 30 min prior to capsule ingestion. Small bowel cleansing was independently assessed by two experienced endoscopists and classified as poor, fair, good or excellent according to the proportion of small bowel mucosa under perfect conditions for visualization. When there was no agreement between the two endoscopists, the images were reviewed and discussed until a consensus was reached. The preparation was considered acceptable if > 50% or adequate if > 75% of the mucosa was in perfect cleansing condition. The amount of bubbles was assessed independently and it was considered significant if it prevented a correct interpretation of the images. Positive endoscopic findings, gastric emptying time (GET) and small bowel transit time (SBTT) were recorded for each examination. RESULTS: There was a trend favoring Group B in achieving an acceptable (including fair, good or excellent) level of cleansing (Group A: 65%; Group B: 83.3%; Group C: 68.4%) [P = not significant (NS)] and favoring Group C in attaining an excellent level of cleansing (Group A: 10%; Group B: 16.7%; Group C: 21.1%) (P = NS). The number of patients with an adequate cleansing of the small bowel, corresponding to an excellent or good classification, was 5 (25%) in Group A, 5 (27.8%) in Group B and 4 (21.1%) in Group C (P = 0.892). Conversely, 7 patients (35%) in Group A, 3 patients (16.7%) in Group B and 6 patients (31.6%) in Group C were considered to have poor small bowel cleansing (P = 0.417), with significant fluid or debris such that the examination was unreliable. The proportion of patients with a significant amount of bubbles was 50% in Group A, 27.8% in Group B and 15.8% in Group C (P = 0.065). This was significantly lower in Group C when compared to Group A (P = 0.026). The mean GET was 27.8 min for Group A, 27.2 min for Group B and 40.7 min for Group C (P = 0.381). The mean SBTT was 256.4 min for Group A, 256.1 min for Group B and 258.1 min for Group C (P = 0.998). Regarding to the rate of complete examinations, the capsule reached the cecum in 20 patients (100%) in Group A, 16 patients (88.9%) in Group B and 17 patients (89.5%) in Group C (P = 0.312). A definite diagnosis based on relevant small bowel endoscopic lesions was established in 60% of the patients in Group A (12 patients), 44.4% in Group B (8 patients) and 57.8% in Group C (11 patients) (P = 0.587). CONCLUSION: Preparation with 2 L of PEG before small bowel capsule endoscopy (SBCE) may improve small bowel cleansing and the quality of visualization. Simethicone may further reduce intraluminal bubbles. No significant differences were found regarding GET, SBTT and the proportion of complete exploration or diagnostic yield among the three different cleansing protocols. PMID:23424190

  8. Oral purgative and simethicone before small bowel capsule endoscopy.

    PubMed

    Rosa, Bruno Joel Ferreira; Barbosa, Mara; Magalhães, Joana; Rebelo, Ana; Moreira, Maria João; Cotter, José

    2013-02-16

    To evaluate small bowel cleansing quality, diagnostic yield and transit time, comparing three cleansing protocols prior to capsule endoscopy. Sixty patients were prospectively enrolled and randomized to one of the following cleansing protocols: patients in Group A underwent a 24 h liquid diet and overnight fasting; patients in Group B followed protocol A and subsequently were administered 2 L of polyethylene glycol (PEG) the evening before the procedure; patients in Group C followed protocol B and were additionally administered 100 mg of simethicone 30 min prior to capsule ingestion. Small bowel cleansing was independently assessed by two experienced endoscopists and classified as poor, fair, good or excellent according to the proportion of small bowel mucosa under perfect conditions for visualization. When there was no agreement between the two endoscopists, the images were reviewed and discussed until a consensus was reached. The preparation was considered acceptable if > 50% or adequate if > 75% of the mucosa was in perfect cleansing condition. The amount of bubbles was assessed independently and it was considered significant if it prevented a correct interpretation of the images. Positive endoscopic findings, gastric emptying time (GET) and small bowel transit time (SBTT) were recorded for each examination. There was a trend favoring Group B in achieving an acceptable (including fair, good or excellent) level of cleansing (Group A: 65%; Group B: 83.3%; Group C: 68.4%) [P = not significant (NS)] and favoring Group C in attaining an excellent level of cleansing (Group A: 10%; Group B: 16.7%; Group C: 21.1%) (P = NS). The number of patients with an adequate cleansing of the small bowel, corresponding to an excellent or good classification, was 5 (25%) in Group A, 5 (27.8%) in Group B and 4 (21.1%) in Group C (P = 0.892). Conversely, 7 patients (35%) in Group A, 3 patients (16.7%) in Group B and 6 patients (31.6%) in Group C were considered to have poor small bowel cleansing (P = 0.417), with significant fluid or debris such that the examination was unreliable. The proportion of patients with a significant amount of bubbles was 50% in Group A, 27.8% in Group B and 15.8% in Group C (P = 0.065). This was significantly lower in Group C when compared to Group A (P = 0.026). The mean GET was 27.8 min for Group A, 27.2 min for Group B and 40.7 min for Group C (P = 0.381). The mean SBTT was 256.4 min for Group A, 256.1 min for Group B and 258.1 min for Group C (P = 0.998). Regarding to the rate of complete examinations, the capsule reached the cecum in 20 patients (100%) in Group A, 16 patients (88.9%) in Group B and 17 patients (89.5%) in Group C (P = 0.312). A definite diagnosis based on relevant small bowel endoscopic lesions was established in 60% of the patients in Group A (12 patients), 44.4% in Group B (8 patients) and 57.8% in Group C (11 patients) (P = 0.587). Preparation with 2 L of PEG before small bowel capsule endoscopy (SBCE) may improve small bowel cleansing and the quality of visualization. Simethicone may further reduce intraluminal bubbles. No significant differences were found regarding GET, SBTT and the proportion of complete exploration or diagnostic yield among the three different cleansing protocols.

  9. 40 CFR 65.62 - Process vent group determination.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-07-01

    ... 40 Protection of Environment 16 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Process vent group determination. 65... (CONTINUED) CONSOLIDATED FEDERAL AIR RULE Process Vents § 65.62 Process vent group determination. (a) Group status. The owner or operator of a process vent shall determine the group status (i.e., Group 1, Group 2A...

  10. 40 CFR 65.62 - Process vent group determination.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-07-01

    ... 40 Protection of Environment 16 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Process vent group determination. 65... (CONTINUED) CONSOLIDATED FEDERAL AIR RULE Process Vents § 65.62 Process vent group determination. (a) Group status. The owner or operator of a process vent shall determine the group status (i.e., Group 1, Group 2A...

  11. 40 CFR 65.62 - Process vent group determination.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ... 40 Protection of Environment 15 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Process vent group determination. 65... (CONTINUED) CONSOLIDATED FEDERAL AIR RULE Process Vents § 65.62 Process vent group determination. (a) Group status. The owner or operator of a process vent shall determine the group status (i.e., Group 1, Group 2A...

  12. How Do Children Share Information in Groups?

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Gummerum, Michaela; Leman, Patrick J.; Hollins, Tara S.

    2014-01-01

    Group decision making should be particularly beneficial when group members share unique information, because then a group can make a better decision than each group member alone. This study examined how elementary-school children share unique information during group decision making. Seventy-nine groups of 3 same-sex and same-age 7- and 9-year-old…

  13. 40 CFR 65.62 - Process vent group determination.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ..., or Group 2B) for each process vent. Group 1 process vents require control, and Group 2A and 2B... 40 Protection of Environment 15 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Process vent group determination. 65... (CONTINUED) CONSOLIDATED FEDERAL AIR RULE Process Vents § 65.62 Process vent group determination. (a) Group...

  14. Treatability Study Pilot Test Operation Field Photos

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

    Li, Jun

    Photos in each group are in chronological order as captured: Group I Tank Platform Setup, November 14, 2017; Group II Tank Setup, November 15, 2017; Group III Aboveground Injestion System (AIS) Setup, November 20, 2017; Group IV Chemical Mixing, November 21, 2017; Group V KB-1 Bacteria Injection, November 27, 2017; Group VI Miscellaneous.

  15. The Relationship of Interpersonal Attraction and Attraction to Group in a Growth Group Setting.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Evans, Nancy J.

    1984-01-01

    Investigated the relationship of interpersonal attraction and attraction to groups. Students (N=56) participating in growth groups completed the Group Attitude Scale and individual rating scales early, midway, and late in the group. Data indicated an increasing relationship between interpersonal and group attraction throughout the life of the…

  16. Group Play Therapy with Sexually Abused Preschool Children: Group Behaviors and Interventions

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Jones, Karyn Dayle

    2002-01-01

    Group play therapy is a common treatment modality for children who have been sexually abused. Sexually abused preschoolers exhibit different group play therapy behaviors than do nonabused children. Group workers need to be aware of these differences and know the appropriate group interventions. This article describes group play therapy with…

  17. Providing Effective Speech-Language Pathology Group Treatment in the Comprehensive Inpatient Rehabilitation Setting.

    PubMed

    Baron, Christine; Holcombe, Molly; van der Stelt, Candace

    2018-02-01

    Group treatment is an integral part of speech-language pathology (SLP) practice. The majority of SLP literature concerns group treatment provided in outpatient settings. This article describes the goals, procedures, and benefits of providing quality SLP group therapy in the comprehensive inpatient rehabilitation (CIR) setting. Effective CIR groups must be designed with attention to type and severity of communication impairment, as well physical stamina of group members. Group leaders need to target individualized patient goals while creating a challenging, complex, and dynamic group context that supports participation by all group members. Direct patient-to-patient interaction is fostered as much as possible. Peer feedback supports goal acquisition by fellow group members. The rich, complex group context fosters improved insight, initiation, social connectedness, and generalization of communication skills. Group treatment provides a unique type of treatment not easily replicated with individual treatment. SLP group treatment in a CIR is an essential component of an intensive, high-quality program. Continued advocacy for group therapy provision and research into its efficacy and effectiveness are warranted. Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

  18. [Clinical application of biofragmentable anastomosis ring for intestinal anastomosis].

    PubMed

    Ye, Feng; Lin, Jian-jiang

    2006-11-01

    To compare the efficacy of the biofragmentable anastomotic ring (BAR) with conventional hand-sutured and stapling techniques,and to evaluate the safety and applicability of the BAR in intestinal anastomosis. The totol of 498 patients performed intestinal anastomosis from January 2000 to November 2005 were allocated to BAR group (n=186), hand-sutured group (n=177) and linear cutter group (n=135). The operative time, postoperative convalescence and corresponding complication were recorded. Postoperative anastomotic inflammation and anastomotic stenosis were observed during half or one year follow-up of 436 patients. The operative time was (102 +/- 16) min in the BAR group, (121 +/- 15) min in the hand-sutured group, and (105 +/- 18 ) min in the linear cutter group. The difference was significant statistically (P <0.05). The operative time in BAR group and linear cutter group was shorter than hand-sutured group. One case of anastomotic leakage was noted in the BAR group, one case in the hand-sutured group, and none in the linear cutter group. They were cured by conservative methods. One case of anastomotic obstruction happened in the BAR group, one case in the hand-sutured group. Two of them were cured by conservative methods. Two cases of anastomotic obstruction happened in the hand-sutured group. However, one of them required reoperation to remove the obstruction. In the BAR, hand-sutured and the linear cutter group, the postoperative first flatus time was (67.2+/- 4.6) h, (70.2 +/- 5.8) h and (69.2 +/- 6.2)h, respectively. No significant differences were observed among three groups(P > 0.05). The rate of postoperative anastomotic inflammation was 3.0 % (5/164) in the BAR group, 47.8 % (76/159) in hand-sutured group and 7.1 % (8/113) in the linear cutter group. The difference was significant statistically (P <0.05). The rate of postoperative anastomotic inflammation in the BAR group and in the linear cutter group was less than that in hand-sutured group. BAR is one of rapid,safe and effective methods in intestinal anastomosis. It has less anastomotic inflammatory reaction than hand-sutured technique. It should be considered equal to manual and stapler methods.

  19. Association between ABO blood/rhesus grouping and hepatitis B and C: a case-control study.

    PubMed

    Pourhassan, Abolfazl

    2014-06-01

    During past decades, a connection between hepatitis and the host ABO/Rh blood groups has been always under dispute, with no appropriately designed study yet. This study aimed to investigate possible association between ABO blood/Rh groups with both hepatitis B and C. In this case-control setting, 200 healthy individuals (controls), 200 patients with chronic Hepatitis-B infection (HB) and 200 patients with chronic Hepatitis-C infection (HC) were recruited from 2010 to 2013 in Tabriz Sina Hospital. ABO blood and Rh grouping was performed and the results were compared between the case and control groups. Both pair of the control and HB groups and the control and HC groups were matched for their subjects' age and sex. In the control group, 178 subjects (89%) were Rh+ and 22 subjects (11%) were Rh-. In the HB group, there were 180 Rh+ (90%) and 20 Rh- (10%) patients. In the HC group there were 168 Rh+ (84%) and 32 Rh-negative (16%) patients. Both pair of the control and HB groups (p = 0.74), as well as the control and HC groups (p = 0.14) were comparable for the status of Rh. In the control group there were 84 (42%), 32 (16%), 66 (33%) and 18 (9%) subjects with A, B, O and AB blood groups, respectively. The corresponding figures were 84 (42%), 34 (17%), 58 (29%) and 24 (12%) for the HB patients; and 80 (40%), 29 (14.5%), 85 (42.5%) and 6 (3%) for the HC patients. Comparing between the control and HB groups showed no significant difference in terms of the frequency of ABO blood groups (p = 0.70). However, with comparing the control and HC groups, the rate of O blood group was significantly higher in the HC group and concomitantly, the rate of AB blood group was significantly higher in the control group (p = 0.04). Although, there is not a significant association between ABO blood groups and HB, this association is significant between certain ABO blood groups and HC.

  20. An In Vitro Evaluation of the Loosening of Different Interchangeable Abutments in Internal-Connection-Type Implants.

    PubMed

    Park, Ji-Man; Baek, Chang-Hyun; Heo, Seong-Joo; Kim, Seong-Kyun; Koak, Jai-Young; Kim, Shin-Koo; Belser, Urs C

    The aim of this study was to compare the loosening of interchangeable one-piece abutments connected to internal-connection-type implants after cyclic loading. Four implant abutment groups (n = 7 in each group) with Straumann tissue-level implants were assessed: Straumann solid abutment (group S), Southern Implants solid abutment (group SI), Implant Direct straight abutment (group ID), and Blue Sky Bio regular platform abutment (group BSB). The implant was firmly held in a special jig to ensure fixation. Abutment screws were tightened to manufacturers' recommended torque with a digital torque gauge. The hemispherical loading members were fabricated for the load cell of a universal testing machine to evenly distribute the force on the specimens and to fulfill the ISO 14801:2007 standard. A cyclic loading of 25 N at 30 degrees to the implant's long axis was applied for a duty of a half million cycles. Tightening torques were measured prior to the loading. Removal torques were measured after cyclic loading. The data were analyzed with one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), and the significance level was set at P < .05. The mean removal torques after cyclic loading were 34.0 ± 1.1 Ncm (group S), 25.0 ± 1.5 Ncm (group SI), 23.9 ± 2.1 Ncm (group ID), and 27.9 ± 1.3 Ncm (group BSB). Removal torques of each group were statistically different in the order of group S > group BSB > groups SI and ID (P < .05). The mean reduction rates were -2.9% ± 3.2% (group S), -21.9% ± 4.8% (group SI), -20.2% ± 7.2% (group ID), and -6.9% ± 4.3% (group BSB) after a half million cycles, respectively. Reduction rates of groups S and BSB were statistically lower than those of groups SI and ID (P < .01). The standard deviation of group S was lower than group BSB. The removal torque of the original Straumann abutment was significantly higher than those of the copy abutments. The reduction rate of the groups S and BSB abutments was lower than those of the other copy abutments.

  1. In vitro progression of artificial white spot lesions sealed with an infiltrant resin.

    PubMed

    Gelani, R; Zandona, A F; Lippert, F; Kamocka, M M; Eckert, G

    2014-01-01

    This study assessed the ability of an infiltrant resin (Icon, DMG Chemisch-Pharmazeutische Fabrik GmbH, Hamburg, Germany) to prevent artificial lesion progression in vitro when used to impregnate white spot lesions and also assessed the effect of saliva contamination on resin infiltration. Enamel specimens (n=252) were prepared and covered with nail varnish, leaving a window of sound enamel. After demineralization (pH 5.0; four weeks), specimens were divided into six groups (n=42 per group): group 1, 2% fluoride gel (positive control); group 2, resin infiltrant; group 3, resin infiltrant + fluoride gel; group 4, no treatment (negative control); group 5, resin infiltrant application after saliva contamination; and group 6, resin infiltrant + fluoride gel after saliva contamination. Specimens from each group were cut perpendicular to the surface, and one-half of each specimen was exposed to a demineralizing solution for another four weeks. The other half was set aside as a record of initial lesion depth and was used later in the determination of lesion progression. Lesion progression and infiltrant penetration were measured using confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) and transverse microradiography (TMR). For lesion depth, based on CLSM, groups 2 and 3 showed the least changes when submitted to demineralization challenge, followed by group 1, then groups 5 and 6, and finally group 4. There were no significant differences between groups 2 and 3 or groups 5 and 6 in their ability to inhibit further lesion progression (p<0.05). Based on TMR, groups 2 and 3 also showed the fewest changes when submitted to demineralization challenge, followed by group 5, then groups 1 and 6, and finally group 4. In terms of mineral loss as measured by TMR, all groups that contained fluoride (groups 1, 3, and 6) show less percentage change in mineral loss than the groups that did not contain fluoride (groups 2, 4, and 5). It can be concluded that infiltrant penetration into early enamel lesions inhibited further demineralization in vitro, especially in the presence of fluoride. Saliva contamination decreased the ability of the infiltrant to prevent further demineralization, but the presence of fluoride seemed to counteract this effect.

  2. Colorectal cancer lymph node staining by activated carbon nanoparticles suspension in vivo or methylene blue in vitro

    PubMed Central

    Cai, Hong-Ke; He, Hai-Fei; Tian, Wei; Zhou, Mei-Qi; Hu, Yue; Deng, Yong-Chuan

    2012-01-01

    AIM: To investigate whether activated carbon nanoparticles suspension (ACNS) or methylene blue (MB) can increase the detected number of lymph nodes in colorectal cancer. METHODS: Sixty-seven of 72 colorectal cancer patients treated at our hospital fulfilled the inclusion criteria of the study which was conducted from December 2010 to February 2012. Seven patients refused to participate. Eventually, 60 patients were included, and randomly assigned to three groups (20 in each group): ACNS group (group A), MB group (group B) and non-stained conventional surgical group (group C). In group A, patients received subserosal injection of 1 mL ACNS in a 4-quadrant region around the mass. In group B, the main artery of specimen was identified and isolated after the specimen was removed, and 2 mL MB was slowly injected into the isolated, stretched and fixed vessel. In group C, no ACNS and MB were injected. All the mesentery lymph nodes were isolated and removed systematically by visually inspecting and palpating the adipose tissue. RESULTS: No difference was observed among the three groups in age, gender, tumor location, tumor diameter, T-stage, degree of differentiation, postoperative complications and peritoneal drainage retention time. The total number of detected lymph nodes was 535, 476 and 223 in the three groups, respectively. The mean number of detected lymph nodes per patient was significantly higher in group A than in group C (26.8 ± 8.4 vs 12.2 ± 3.2, P < 0.001). Similarly, there were significantly more lymph nodes detected in group B than in group C (23.8 ± 6.9 vs 12.2 ± 3.2, P < 0.001). However, there was no significant difference between group A and group B. There were 50, 46 and 32 metastatic lymph nodes dissected in 13 patients of group A, 10 patients of group B and 11 patients of group C, without significant differences among the three groups. Eleven of the 60 patients had insufficient number of detected lymph nodes (< 12). Only one patient with T4a rectal cancer had 10 lymph nodes detected in group B, the other 10 patients were all from group C. Based on the different diameter categories, the number of detected lymph nodes in groups A and B was significantly higher than in group C. However, there was no statistically significant difference between group A and group B. The metastatic lymph nodes were not significant different among the three groups. Similarly, tumor location, T stage and tumor differentiation did not affect the staining results. Body mass index was a minor influencing factor in the two different staining methods. The stained lymph nodes can easily be identified from the mesenteric adipose tissues, and the staining time for lymph nodes was not significantly different compared with unstained group. None of the patients in groups A and B had drug-related complications. CONCLUSION: Both activated carbon nanoparticles suspension in vivo and methylene blue in vitro can be used as tracers to increase the detected number of lymph nodes in colorectal cancer. PMID:23155345

  3. A group therapist perspective on self-help groups.

    PubMed

    Lieberman, M A

    1990-07-01

    The author provides an overview of self-help groups in terms of their origins, growth, scope, and effectiveness, and then compares these groups with professionally conducted psychotherapy groups. A framework for evaluating group helping systems is proposed which includes five principal dimensions: the helping group as a social microcosm; technological complexity/simplicity; psychological distance/closeness between helper and helpee; specificity/generality of help methods; and differentiation versus nondifferentiation among participants. The author concludes his article by recommending four strategies for how group therapists can contribute to self-help groups.

  4. Cognitive synergy in groups and group-to-individual transfer of decision-making competencies

    PubMed Central

    Curşeu, Petru L.; Meslec, Nicoleta; Pluut, Helen; Lucas, Gerardus J. M.

    2015-01-01

    In a field study (148 participants organized in 38 groups) we tested the effect of group synergy and one's position in relation to the collaborative zone of proximal development (CZPD) on the change of individual decision-making competencies. We used two parallel sets of decision tasks reported in previous research to test rationality and we evaluated individual decision-making competencies in the pre-group and post-group conditions as well as group rationality (as an emergent group level phenomenon). We used multilevel modeling to analyze the data and the results showed that members of synergetic groups had a higher cognitive gain as compared to members of non-synergetic groups, while highly rational members (members above the CZPD) had lower cognitive gains compared to less rational group members (members situated below the CZPD). These insights extend the literature on group-to-individual transfer of learning and have important practical implications as they show that group dynamics influence the development of individual decision-making competencies. PMID:26441750

  5. Positive Feeling, Negative Meaning: Visualizing the Mental Representations of In-Group and Out-Group Smiles

    PubMed Central

    Dotsch, Ron; Wentura, Dirk

    2016-01-01

    Even though smiles are seen as universal facial expressions, research shows that there exist various kinds of smiles (i.e., affiliative smiles, dominant smiles). Accordingly, we suggest that there also exist various mental representations of smiles. Which representation is employed in cognition may depend on social factors, such as the smiling person’s group membership: Since in-group members are typically seen as more benevolent than out-group members, in-group smiles should be associated with more benevolent social meaning than those conveyed by out-group members. We visualized in-group and out-group smiles with reverse correlation image classification. These visualizations indicated that mental representations of in-group smiles indeed express more benevolent social meaning than those of out-group smiles. The affective meaning of these visualized smiles was not influenced by group membership. Importantly, the effect occurred even though participants were not instructed to attend to the nature of the smile, pointing to an automatic association between group membership and intention. PMID:26963621

  6. Altruistic behavior in cohesive social groups: The role of target identifiability

    PubMed Central

    Ritov, Ilana; Kogut, Tehila

    2017-01-01

    People’s tendency to be more generous toward identifiable victims than toward unidentifiable or statistical victims is known as the Identifiable Victim Effect. Recent research has called the generality of this effect into question, showing that in cross-national contexts, identifiability mostly affects willingness to help victims of one’s own “in-group.” Furthermore, in inter-group conflict situations, identifiability increased generosity toward a member of the adversary group, but decreased generosity toward a member of one’s own group. In the present research we examine the role of group-cohesiveness as an underlying factor accounting for these divergent findings. In particular, we examined novel groups generated in the lab, using the minimal group paradigm, as well as natural groups of students in regular exercise sections. Allocation decisions in dictator games revealed that a group’s cohesiveness affects generosity toward in-group and out-group recipients differently, depending on their identifiability. In particular, in cohesive groups the identification of an in-group recipient decreased, rather than increased generosity. PMID:29161282

  7. Social support, organizational characteristics, psychological well-being, and group appraisal in three self-help group populations.

    PubMed

    Maton, K I

    1988-02-01

    This study examined the relationship of three social support and three organizational variables to two well-being and two group appraisal variables among 144 members of Compassionate Friends, Multiple Sclerosis, and Overeaters Anonymous self-help groups. An anonymous questionnaire was the major research instrument. Receiving social support was not significantly related to depression or anxiety but was positively related to perceived group benefits and group satisfaction. Providing social support and friendship were each positively related to one well-being and one group appraisal variable. Bidirectional supporters (i.e., individuals high on both receiving and providing support) reported more favorable well-being and group appraisal than Receivers, Providers, and Low Supporters. At the group level of analysis (n = 15 groups), groups with higher levels of role differentiation, greater order and organization, and in which leaders were perceived as more capable contained members who reported more positive well-being and group appraisal. The implications for future research and professional consultation to self-help groups are discussed.

  8. Collaborative recall in face-to-face and electronic groups.

    PubMed

    Ekeocha, Justina Ohaeri; Brennan, Susan E

    2008-04-01

    When people remember shared experiences, the amount they recall as a collaborating group is less than the amount obtained by pooling their individual memories. We tested the hypothesis that reduced group productivity can be attributed, at least in part, to content filtering, where information is omitted from group products either because individuals fail to retrieve it or choose to withhold it (self-filtering), or because groups reject or fail to incorporate it (group-filtering). Three-person groups viewed a movie clip together and recalled it, first individually, then in face-to-face or electronic groups, and finally individually again. Although both kinds of groups recalled equal amounts, group-filtering occurred more often face-to-face, while self-filtering occurred more often electronically. This suggests that reduced group productivity is due not only to intrapersonal factors stemming from cognitive interference, but also to interpersonal costs of coordinating the group product. Finally, face-to-face group interaction facilitated subsequent individual recall.

  9. Parallel and serial grouping of image elements in visual perception.

    PubMed

    Houtkamp, Roos; Roelfsema, Pieter R

    2010-12-01

    The visual system groups image elements that belong to an object and segregates them from other objects and the background. Important cues for this grouping process are the Gestalt criteria, and most theories propose that these are applied in parallel across the visual scene. Here, we find that Gestalt grouping can indeed occur in parallel in some situations, but we demonstrate that there are also situations where Gestalt grouping becomes serial. We observe substantial time delays when image elements have to be grouped indirectly through a chain of local groupings. We call this chaining process incremental grouping and demonstrate that it can occur for only a single object at a time. We suggest that incremental grouping requires the gradual spread of object-based attention so that eventually all the object's parts become grouped explicitly by an attentional labeling process. Our findings inspire a new incremental grouping theory that relates the parallel, local grouping process to feedforward processing and the serial, incremental grouping process to recurrent processing in the visual cortex.

  10. The cross-category effect: mere social categorization is sufficient to elicit an own-group bias in face recognition.

    PubMed

    Bernstein, Michael J; Young, Steven G; Hugenberg, Kurt

    2007-08-01

    Although the cross-race effect (CRE) is a well-established phenomenon, both perceptual-expertise and social-categorization models have been proposed to explain the effect. The two studies reported here investigated the extent to which categorizing other people as in-group versus out-group members is sufficient to elicit a pattern of face recognition analogous to that of the CRE, even when perceptual expertise with the stimuli is held constant. In Study 1, targets were categorized as members of real-life in-groups and out-groups (based on university affiliation), whereas in Study 2, targets were categorized into experimentally created minimal groups. In both studies, recognition performance was better for targets categorized as in-group members, despite the fact that perceptual expertise was equivalent for in-group and out-group faces. These results suggest that social-cognitive mechanisms of in-group and out-group categorization are sufficient to elicit performance differences for in-group and out-group face recognition.

  11. Cognitive synergy in groups and group-to-individual transfer of decision-making competencies.

    PubMed

    Curşeu, Petru L; Meslec, Nicoleta; Pluut, Helen; Lucas, Gerardus J M

    2015-01-01

    In a field study (148 participants organized in 38 groups) we tested the effect of group synergy and one's position in relation to the collaborative zone of proximal development (CZPD) on the change of individual decision-making competencies. We used two parallel sets of decision tasks reported in previous research to test rationality and we evaluated individual decision-making competencies in the pre-group and post-group conditions as well as group rationality (as an emergent group level phenomenon). We used multilevel modeling to analyze the data and the results showed that members of synergetic groups had a higher cognitive gain as compared to members of non-synergetic groups, while highly rational members (members above the CZPD) had lower cognitive gains compared to less rational group members (members situated below the CZPD). These insights extend the literature on group-to-individual transfer of learning and have important practical implications as they show that group dynamics influence the development of individual decision-making competencies.

  12. Role of PDGFs/PDGFRs signaling pathway in myocardial fibrosis of DOCA/salt hypertensive rats

    PubMed Central

    Fan, Bin; Ma, Likun; Li, Qian; Wang, Lin; Zhou, Junling; Wu, Jiawei

    2014-01-01

    This study aimed to investigate the role of PDGF/PDGFR signaling pathway in myocardial fibrosis of desoxycorticosterone (DOCA) induced salt-sensitive hypertensive rats and explore the influence of PDGF/PDGFR signaling pathway on fibroblasts and myofibroblasts in the heart. 60 male SD rats underwent right nephrectomy and bred with 1% sodium chloride and 0.1% potassium chloride for 4 weeks, and then randomly divided into 3 groups (CON group, DOCA group and DOCA+IMA group). Results showed that: 1) 14 and 28 days after intervention, the SBP in DOCA and DOCA+IMA group was significantly higher than that in CON group. At days 28, the severity of myocardial fibrosis and PVCA/VA ratio in DOCA group were significantly increased when compared with CON group. The severity of myocardial fibrosis and PVCA/VA ratio in DOCA+IMA group were markedly lower than those in DOCA group although they were higher than those in CON group. 2) At days 14, the mRNA expressions of PDGFRα and PDGFRβ in DOCA group were significantly higher than CON and DOCA+IMA group. At days 28, the mRNA expressions of PDGFRβ, FSP-1, α-SMA, procollagen I and procollagen III in DOCA group were significantly higher than those in CON group. In addition, in a specific group, the PDGFRβ mRNA expression was higher than the PDGFRα mRNA expression. In DOCA+IMA group, the mRNA expressions of PDGFRβ, FSP-1, α-SMA, procollagen I and procollagen III were markedly reduced when compared with DOCA group. 3) At 14 days, the protein expressions of PDGFRα and PDGFRβ in DOCA group were significantly higher than those in CON group. The PDGFRα protein expression in DOCA+IMA group was markedly lower than that in DOCA group. At days 28, the protein expressions of PDGFRα and PDGFRβ in DOCA group were significantly increased when compared with CON group. The protein expressions of PDGFRα and PDGFRβ in DOCA+IMA group were significantly lower than those in DOCA group. At day 28, the cardiac interstitium mainly contained vimentin positive fibroblasts, and α-SMA positive cells were less identified in CON group. In DOCA group, α-SMA positive fibroblasts (spindle-shaped) increased significantly, but the myofibroblasts reduced significantly in DOCA+IMA group when compared with DOCA group. 4) PDGFRα protein expression was observed in fibroblasts and myofibroblasts, but not in VSMCs. PDGFRβ protein expression was noted in not only fibroblasts and myofibroblasts but also VSMCs. Thus, During myocardial fibrosis of DOCA induced salt-sensitive hypertensive rats, PDGFRα acts at early stage, but PDGFRβ functions in the whole process. PDGFRα and PDGFRβ expressions increase in fibroblasts and myofibroblasts, suggesting that PDGF/PDGFR signaling pathway is involved in the myocardial fibrosis via stimulating fibroblasts to proliferate and transform into myofibroblasts. PMID:24427322

  13. A hypothesis of the Effect of a New Nasal Spray Made from Natural Medicines on Allergic Rhinitis in Animals

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhai, Hailong; Wang, Yufang

    2018-01-01

    To verify the effect of a new nasal spray made from natural medicines on allergic rhinitis in animals. Methods: The main natural medicines contained in Acusine nasal spray plus essential traditional Chinese medicine contained in drugs for allergic rhinitis in Chinese market were used. By preparation process of extraction of traditional Chinese medicine such as steam distillation, ethanol extraction, a new nasal spray made from natural medicines was prepared. In the meantime, 24 BALB/c mice and New Zealand white rabbits were used. Then, mice were randomly divided into four group; control group, beclomethasone dipropionate group, Acusine group and new spray group, 6 mice in each group. Moreover, the effect of the new nasal spray made on passive cutaneous anaphylaxis was conducted by detecting absorptions of Evan’s blue (620nm) in the four groups. Allergic rhinitis models in 40 New Zealand white rabbits were established. Consequently, 40 allergic rhinitis models in rabbits were randomly divided into control group, Acusine group and new spray group, 10 rabbits in each group. The four groups were sprayed nasally with saline, Acusine spray and new spray respectively, three times/d, for 30 days. The nasal resistances in the four groups were measured with a rhinoresistometer. Moreover, their nasal mucosa was taken for HE staining. Consequently, their pathological manifestations were observed. The results: Absorption of Evan’s blue (620nm) of new spray group will be found significantly lower than Acusine group (P<0.05) and will have no significantly difference compared with beclomethasone dipropionate group(P>0.05). On the other hand, absorption of Evan’s blue (620nm) of beclomethasone dipropionate group will be significantly lower than Acusine group (P<0.05). Moreover, The nasal resistances of new spray group will be significantly lower than Acusine group (P<0.05) and will have no significantly difference compared with beclomethasone dipropionate group (P».05). Moreover, the nasal resistances of beclomethasone dipropionate group will be significantly lower than Acusine group (P<0.05). While, the nasal mucosa of control group will be found typical as nasal mucosa of allergic rhinitis. However, the nasal mucosa of beclomethasone dipropionate group, Acusine group and new spray group will be better than control group. Of them, new spray group will be the best. The nasal mucosa of beclomethasone dipropionate group will show the manifestation of drug-induced rhinitis. The conclusion: The invented new spray will not only have a better treatment effect on allergic rhinitis, similar with beclomethasone dipropionate, than Acusine Nasal Spray but also will not leave side effect on nasal mucosa, compared with beclomethasone dipropionate. Thus, the new spray made from natural medicines can be further studied as a better prescription drug, rather than an OTC like Acusine Nasal Spray, to replace beclomethasone dipropionate nasal spray. However, further study that would be required to produce a more meaningful answer.

  14. Fumagillin treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma in rats: An in vivo study of antiangiogenesis

    PubMed Central

    Sheen, I-Shyan; Jeng, Kuo-Shyang; Jeng, Wen-Juei; Jeng, Chi-Juei; Wang, Yi-Ching; Gu, Shu-Ling; Tseng, Shin-Yun; Chu, Chien-Ming; Lin, Chia-Hui; Chang, Kuo-Ming

    2005-01-01

    AIM: To investigate the effect and possible mechanisms of antiangiogenesis therapy for HCC in rats. METHODS: Adult male LEW/SsN rats were divided into 3 groups, 25 animals each. Group A was the control group. Groups B and C were given diethylnitrosamine, 5 mg/kg/d. In addition, group C rats received an intraperitoneal injection of fumagillin, 30 mg/(kg·d). Five animals in each group were killed at 6th, 12th, 18th, 20th and 24th wk to evaluate the development of HCC and metastasis. Weight of the rats, liver tumors, and number of organs involved by HCC were measured at each stage. We compared methionine aminopeptidase-2 (MetAP-2) mRNA, Bcl-2 mRNA, telomerase mRNA, and telomerase activity at 24th wk in the liver tissue of group A rats and tumor tissue of HCC from group B and C rats. RESULTS: No HCC developed in group A, but tumors were present in group B and C rats by the 18th wk. At wk 20 and 24, the median liver weight in group B was 0.64 g (range: 0.58-0.70 g) and 0.79 g (range: 0.70-0.90 g) (P = 0.04), and that in group C was 0.37 g (range: 0.35-0.42 g) and 0.39 g (range: 0.35-0.47 g) (P = 0.67). The liver weight in group C rats was significantly lower than that in group B rats (P = 0.009). At the same time, the median metastasis score (number of organ systems involved) was 3 (range 2-3) in group B, and 1 (range 1-2) in group C, a significant difference between the groups (P = 0.007, 0.004). The levels of MetAP-2 mRNA were significantly higher in groups B and C than in group A (P = 0.025), and significantly higher in group C than in group B (P = 0.047). The level of Bcl-2 mRNA was significantly higher in group B than in group A (P = 0.024), but lower in group C than in group B, although not significantly (P = 0.072). Telomerase mRNA was significantly higher in group B than in group A (P = 0.025), but significantly lower in group C than in group B (P = 0.016). The same inter-group relationship was also true for telomerase activity (P = 0.025 and 0.046). CONCLUSION: Fumagillin effectively inhibits both liver tumor growth and metastasis in rats in vivo. A possible mechanism is fumagillin-induced inhibition of MetAP-2, which plays an essential role in endothelial cell proliferation. Inhibition of MetAP-2 also results in inhibition of Bcl-2 and telomerase activity. PMID:15682466

  15. Is caffeic acid phenethyl ester more protective than doxycycline in experimental periodontitis?

    PubMed

    Yiğit, Umut; Kırzıoğlu, Fatma Yeşim; Uğuz, Abdülhadi Cihangir; Nazıroğlu, Mustafa; Özmen, Özlem

    2017-09-01

    Host modulation therapies (anti-inflammatory drugs, bone-stimulating agents, anti-proteinase etc.) target the inhibition or stabilization of tissue breakdown. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) and/or low dose doxycycline (LDD) administrations on alveolar bone loss (ABL), serum cytokines and gingival apoptosis, as well as the levels of oxidants and anti-oxidants in rats with ligature-induced periodontitis. The animals were randomly divided into five groups: Group C (periodontally healthy), Group PC (Periodontitis+CAPE), Group PD (Periodontitis+LDD), Group PCD (Periodontitis+CAPE+LDD), Group P (Periodontitis). Experimental periodontitis was induced for 14days. Levels of ABL, and the serum cytokines, interleukin (IL)-1 β, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and IL-10 were assessed as were the levels of the oxidants and anti-oxidants, malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and levels of gingival apoptosis. The lowest ABL levels was evident in the PC group, among the experimental groups. There was also less inflammatory infiltration in the PC group than the PD group. IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-10 were lower in the PC group and higher in the P group in comparison to the levels in the other experiment groups. TNF-α levels in the PD group were higher than levels in the PC and PCD groups. The PC and PCD groups did not differ from the C group in regard to MDA levels. The highest GSH-Px level was found in the PC group. Gingival apoptosis in the PC group was not only lower than the PD and PCD groups, but also lower than in the C group. The present study suggests that CAPE has more anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant and anti-apoptotic effects than LDD, with no additive benefits of a CAPE+LDD combination being evident in rats with periodontitis. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  16. Quality theory paper writing for medical examinations.

    PubMed

    Shukla, Samarth; Acharya, Sourya; Acharya, Neema; Shrivastava, Tripti; Kale, Anita

    2014-04-01

    Aim & Objectives: Developing a tactful paper writing skill, through delivery and depiction of the necessary expressions required for in standard or superior essay writing. Understanding relevance and tact of theoretical expression in exam paper writing Learning Indices of standard or quality theory/essay answer (SAQ/LAQ). Applying knowledge and skill gained through these theory writing exercises and assignments to achieve high or better scores in examinations. The study subjects were divided into two groups- Group A (17 students) and Group B students (10students). The students were selected from II M.B.B.S 4(th) term. Students of Group A were sensitized on how to write a theory paper and went through 4 phases namely pre-sensitization test, sensitization (imparting them with skills of good theory paper writing through home assignments and deliberations/ guidance), post-sensitization test and Evaluation. Students of Group A (17 students) undertook theory tests (twice, i.e. before and after sensitization) and Students of Group B (10 students) who were not sensitized and took the theory test with post sensitized Group A students (random 10 students). Both groups were given general pathology as the test syllabus, taught to both groups in didactic lectures during the last 6 months. The results of pre and Post-sensitization tests from both groups were analyzed. Intra group comparisons (pre sensitized Group A with Post sensitized Group A) and inter group comparisons (Non-sensitized group B with Sensitized Group A) were made. Significant results were found between results of pre and Post-sensitization tests in Group A (intra group analysis) and inter group (Group A and B) Post-sensitization tests, as there was remarkable improvement in student theory paper writing skills post sensitizing the students of Group A. Medical students should be mandatorily guided and exposed to the nuances and tact of writing the theory paper for their examinations, as it definitely gives them better understanding of presentations ultimately improving their score in the theory exams.

  17. Survival Pattern of Hodgkin Lymphoma Patients in the Last 25 Years in Lebanon.

    PubMed

    Massoud, Marcel; Kerbage, Fouad; Nehme, Joseph; Sakr, Riwa; Rached, Layale; Zeghondy, Jean; Nasr, Fady; Chahine, Georges

    2017-07-01

    After the emergence of combination chemotherapy in 1960s, survival of patients with Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) has dramatically improved worldwide. We lack studies that document the favorable evolution of survival regarding this disease in Lebanon. To compare the overall survival in HL over 3 different decades in Lebanon. We retrospectively reviewed the charts of 196 patients diagnosed with HL, treated and followed from 1990 to 2015 in our center. Patients were divided into 3 groups according to period of analysis: group A (1990-1999), group B (2000-2009), and group C (2010-2015). We studied the characteristics and survival patterns of patients in each group. The male-to-female sex ratio was 1.06. The median age at diagnosis was 33 years in group A, 30.4 in group B, and 33.12 in group C (P = .6). Results showed variations in the subtypes of the disease according to the following: nodular-sclerosis HL 59.5% in group A, 76.2% in group B, and 85.4% in group C. Mixed cellularity HL 21.6% in group A, 2.4% in group B, and 73.7% in group C (P = .0001). Patients presented with localized disease in 58.6%, 73.7%, and 56.4% in groups A, B, and C, respectively (P = .173). Complete remission was achieved in 76.5% in group A, 85.3% in group B, and 69.5% in group C (P = .007). The survival rate at 5 years in group A was 91%, 94% in group B, and 100% in group C. The survival of patients with HL has dramatically improved over the past 25 years in Lebanon. These results resemble those achieved in Western countries due to the fast adoption of new molecular imaging technologies at diagnosis and follow-up and the rapid approval of new drugs for relapse in the Lebanese market. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  18. Emotional collectives: How groups shape emotions and emotions shape groups.

    PubMed

    van Kleef, Gerben A; Fischer, Agneta H

    2016-01-01

    Group settings are epicentres of emotional activity. Yet, the role of emotions in groups is poorly understood. How do group-level phenomena shape group members' emotional experience and expression? How are emotional expressions recognised, interpreted and shared in group settings? And how do such expressions influence the emotions, cognitions and behaviours of fellow group members and outside observers? To answer these and other questions, we draw on relevant theoretical perspectives (e.g., intergroup emotions theory, social appraisal theory and emotions as social information theory) and recent empirical findings regarding the role of emotions in groups. We organise our review according to two overarching themes: how groups shape emotions and how emotions shape groups. We show how novel empirical approaches break important new ground in uncovering the role of emotions in groups. Research on emotional collectives is thriving and constitutes a key to understanding the social nature of emotions.

  19. Friends With Performance Benefits: A Meta-Analysis on the Relationship Between Friendship and Group Performance.

    PubMed

    Chung, Seunghoo; Lount, Robert B; Park, Hee Man; Park, Ernest S

    2018-01-01

    The current article examines if, and under which conditions, there exists a positive relationship between working with friends and group performance. To do so, using data from 1,016 groups obtained from 26 studies, we meta-analyzed comparisons of the performance of friendship groups versus acquaintance groups. Results show that friendship has a significant positive effect on group task performance (Cohen's d = 0.31). Furthermore, this relationship was moderated by group size (i.e., the positive effect of friendship on performance increased with group size) and task focus (i.e., friendship groups performed better than acquaintance groups on tasks requiring a high quantity of output, whereas there was no performance benefit on tasks requiring a single or high-quality output). These results help to reconcile mixed findings and illustrate when friendship groups are more likely to perform better than acquaintance groups.

  20. Capturing the superorganism: a formal theory of group adaptation.

    PubMed

    Gardner, A; Grafen, A

    2009-04-01

    Adaptation is conventionally regarded as occurring at the level of the individual organism. However, in recent years there has been a revival of interest in the possibility for group adaptations and superorganisms. Here, we provide the first formal theory of group adaptation. In particular: (1) we clarify the distinction between group selection and group adaptation, framing the former in terms of gene frequency change and the latter in terms of optimization; (2) we capture the superorganism in the form of a 'group as maximizing agent' analogy that links an optimization program to a model of a group-structured population; (3) we demonstrate that between-group selection can lead to group adaptation, but only in rather special circumstances; (4) we provide formal support for the view that between-group selection is the best definition for 'group selection'; and (5) we reveal that mechanisms of conflict resolution such as policing cannot be regarded as group adaptations.

  1. Feel like you belong: on the bidirectional link between emotional fit and group identification in task groups

    PubMed Central

    Delvaux, Ellen; Meeussen, Loes; Mesquita, Batja

    2015-01-01

    Three studies investigated the association between members’ group identification and the emotional fit with their group. In the first study, a cross-sectional study in a large organization, we replicated earlier research by showing that group identification and emotional fit are positively associated, using a broader range of emotions and using profile correlations to measure group members’ emotional fit. In addition, in two longitudinal studies, where groups of students were followed at several time points during their collaboration on a project, we tested the directionality of the relationship between group identification and emotional fit. The results showed a bidirectional, positive link between group identification and emotional fit, such that group identification and emotional fit either mutually reinforce or mutually dampen each other over time. We discuss how these findings increase insights in group functioning and how they may be used to change group processes for better or worse. PMID:26300806

  2. Reactive codoping of GaAlInP compound semiconductors

    DOEpatents

    Hanna, Mark Cooper [Boulder, CO; Reedy, Robert [Golden, CO

    2008-02-12

    A GaAlInP compound semiconductor and a method of producing a GaAlInP compound semiconductor are provided. The apparatus and method comprises a GaAs crystal substrate in a metal organic vapor deposition reactor. Al, Ga, In vapors are prepared by thermally decomposing organometallic compounds. P vapors are prepared by thermally decomposing phospine gas, group II vapors are prepared by thermally decomposing an organometallic group IIA or IIB compound. Group VIB vapors are prepared by thermally decomposing a gaseous compound of group VIB. The Al, Ga, In, P, group II, and group VIB vapors grow a GaAlInP crystal doped with group IIA or IIB and group VIB elements on the substrate wherein the group IIA or IIB and a group VIB vapors produced a codoped GaAlInP compound semiconductor with a group IIA or IIB element serving as a p-type dopant having low group II atomic diffusion.

  3. Peer Groups as a Context for School Misconduct: The Moderating Role of Group Interactional Style.

    PubMed

    Ellis, Wendy; Zarbatany, Lynne; Chen, Xinyin; Kinal, Megan; Boyko, Lisa

    2018-01-01

    Peer group interactional style was examined as a moderator of the relation between peer group school misconduct and group members' school misconduct. Participants were 705 students (M age  = 11.59 years, SD = 1.37) in 148 peer groups. Children reported on their school misconduct in fall and spring. In the winter, group members were observed in a limited-resource task and a group conversation task, and negative and positive group interactional styles were assessed. Multilevel modeling indicated that membership in groups that were higher on school misconduct predicted greater school misconduct only when the groups were high on negative or low on positive interactional style. Results suggest that negative laughter and a coercive interactional style may intensify group effects on children's misconduct. © 2017 The Authors. Child Development © 2017 Society for Research in Child Development, Inc.

  4. Role of meaningful subgroups in explaining differences in perceived variability for in-groups and out-groups.

    PubMed

    Park, B; Ryan, C S; Judd, C M

    1992-10-01

    Five aspects of the complexity of the knowledge representation of business and engineering majors were examined to see whether these differed by group membership and whether these differences were related to differences in perceived variability. Significantly more subgroups were generated when describing the in-group than the out-group; this difference predicted the relative tendency to see the in-group as more variable, and when controlled for statistically, out-group homogeneity effects were eliminated. Familiarity, redundancy, number of attributes used to describe the group, and the deviance of the subgroups from the larger group generally showed differences for in-group and out-group but did not show consistent evidence of mediation. In a 2nd study, Ss who were asked to sort group members into meaningful subgroups perceived greater variability relative to those who did not perform the sorting task.

  5. UMTRA project list of reportable occurrences

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

    Not Available

    1994-04-01

    This UMTRA Project List of Reportable occurrences is provided to facilitate efficient categorization of reportable occurrences. These guidelines have been established in compliance with DOE minimum reporting requirements under DOE Order 5000.3B. Occurrences are arranged into nine groups relating to US Department of Energy (DOE) Uranium Mill Tailings Remedial Action (UMTRA) Project operations for active sites. These nine groupings are provided for reference to determined whether an occurrence meets reporting requirement criteria in accordance with the minimum reporting requirements. Event groups and significance categories that cannot or will not occur, and that do not apply to UMTRA Project operations, aremore » omitted. Occurrence categorization shall be as follows: Group 1. Facility Condition; Group 2. Environmental; Group 3. Personnel Safety; Group 4. Personnel Radiation Protection; Group 5. Safeguards and Security; Group 6. Transportation; Group 7. Value Basis Reporting; Group 8. Facility Status; and Group 9. Cross-Category Items.« less

  6. Group size and social conflict in complex societies.

    PubMed

    Shen, Sheng-Feng; Akçay, Erol; Rubenstein, Dustin R

    2014-02-01

    Conflicts of interest over resources or reproduction among individuals in a social group have long been considered to result in automatic and universal costs to group living. However, exploring how social conflict varies with group size has produced mixed empirical results. Here we develop a model that generates alternative predictions for how social conflict should vary with group size depending on the type of benefits gained from being in a social group. We show that a positive relationship between social conflict and group size is favored when groups form primarily for the benefits of sociality but not when groups form mainly for accessing group-defended resources. Thus, increased social conflict in animal societies should not be viewed as an automatic cost of larger social groups. Instead, studying the relationship between social conflict and the types of grouping benefits will be crucial for understanding the evolution of complex societies.

  7. Spreading of cooperative behaviour across interdependent groups

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Jiang, Luo-Luo; Perc, Matjaž

    2013-08-01

    Recent empirical research has shown that links between groups reinforce individuals within groups to adopt cooperative behaviour. Moreover, links between networks may induce cascading failures, competitive percolation, or contribute to efficient transportation. Here we show that there in fact exists an intermediate fraction of links between groups that is optimal for the evolution of cooperation in the prisoner's dilemma game. We consider individual groups with regular, random, and scale-free topology, and study their different combinations to reveal that an intermediate interdependence optimally facilitates the spreading of cooperative behaviour between groups. Excessive between-group links simply unify the two groups and make them act as one, while too rare between-group links preclude a useful information flow between the two groups. Interestingly, we find that between-group links are more likely to connect two cooperators than in-group links, thus supporting the conclusion that they are of paramount importance.

  8. Puncture Reduction in Percutaneous Transforaminal Endoscopic Discectomy with HE's Lumbar LOcation (HELLO) System: A Cadaver Study.

    PubMed

    Fan, Guoxin; Guan, Xiaofei; Sun, Qi; Hu, Annan; Zhu, Yanjie; Gu, Guangfei; Zhang, Hailong; He, Shisheng

    2015-01-01

    Percutaneous transforaminal endoscopic discectomy (PTED) usually requires numerous punctures under X-ray fluoroscopy. Repeated puncture will lead to more radiation exposure and reduce the beginners' confidence. This cadaver study aimed to investigate the efficacy of HE's Lumbar Location (HELLO) system in puncture reduction of PTED. Cadaver study. Comparative groups. HELLO system consists of self-made surface locator and puncture locator. One senior surgeon conducted the puncture procedure of PTED on the left side of 20 cadavers at L4/L5 and L5/S1 level with the assistance of HELLO system (Group A). Additionally, the senior surgeon conducted the puncture procedure of PTED on the right side of the cadavers at L4/L5 and L5/S1 level with traditional methods (Group B). On the other hand, an inexperienced surgeon conducted the puncture procedure of PTED on the left side of the cadavers at L4/L5 and L5/S1 level with the assistance of our HELLO system (Group C). At L4/L5 level, there was significant difference in puncture times between Group A and Group B (P<0.001), but no significant difference was observed between Group A and Group C (P = 0.811). Similarly at L5/S1 level, there was significant difference in puncture times between Group A and Group B (P<0.001), but no significant difference was observed between Group A and Group C (P = 0.981). At L4/L5 level, there was significant difference in fluoroscopy time between Group A and Group B (P<0.001), but no significant difference was observed between Group A and Group C (P = 0.290). Similarly at L5/S1 level, there was significant difference in fluoroscopy time between Group A and Group B (P<0.001), but no significant difference was observed between Group A and Group C (P = 0.523). As for radiation exposure, HELLO system reduced 39%-45% radiation dosage when comparing Group A and Group B, but there was no significant difference in radiation exposure between Group A and Group C whatever at L4/L5 level or L5/S1 level (P>0.05). There was no difference in location time between Group A and Group B or Group A and Group C either at L4/L5 level or L5/S1 level (P>0.05). Small-sample preclinical study. HELLO system was effective in reducing puncture times, fluoroscopy time and radiation exposure, as well as the difficulty of learning PTED. (2015-RES-127).

  9. [Studies on anaerobic infection in oro-maxillary region--rapid diagnosis by gas-liquid chromatography and antibiotic susceptibilities of anaerobic bacteria].

    PubMed

    Tanaka, J I

    1989-08-01

    Subject material for this study was pus collected from patients with purulent inflammation in the oro-maxillary region. Direct gas-liquid chromatography (GLC) analysis was made, bacterial isolation and identification were carried out, and comparisons were made with results from GLC analysis and anaerobic isolates in a PYG medium. In addition, antibiotic susceptibilities of anaerobic bacteria were examined. Results 1. Anaerobic bacteria were isolated from 85 of 100 cases of obstructive abscesses. Of the 85, 49 were cases of mixed infection involving both anaerobic and aerobic bacteria; and 64 cases were involved with more than 2 species of anaerobic bacteria. Of the 184 strains of anaerobic isolates, 53 were Bacteroides sp. and 51 were Peptostreptococcus sp. The 2 groups accounted for more than half of the isolates. 2. Group A, in which no VFA was detected, accounted for 17 out of 100 cases. Group B, in which acetic acid was detected, accounted for 20 cases; and Group C, in which butyric acid was detected, accounted for 20 cases; and Group D, in which iso-valeric acid was detected, accounted for 8 cases. Direct GLC analysis revealed iso-caproic and caproic acids in the 35 cases constituting Group E. 3. Whereas the percentage of anaerobic bacteria was 64.7% in Group A and 60% in Group B, significantly higher percentages were noted in Group C (95%), Group D (100%) and Group E (100%). The following species were isolated as major member in the groups; Group A--Streptococcus intermedius, Group B--Peptostreptococcus micros, Group C--Fusobacterium nucleatum, Group D--Bacteroides gingivalis, and Group E--Peptostreptococcus anaerobius. 4. In all cases, the sum of VFA produced in the PYG medium by anaerobic isolates was classified into Group A' to E'. Ratios of agreement between VFA as revealed by direct GLC and VFA as revealed by PYG.GLC were as follows: Group A-A'; 47.1%, Group B-B' and C-C'; 45%, Group D-D'; 87.5%, and Group E-E'; 62.9%. 5. In Group B, no propionic acid was detected. The 2 cases in which acetic acid occurred in a concentration greater than 14 x 10(-4) meq/ml belonged to Group B'. In Group C, no isobutyric acid was detected; and the 5 cases in which butyric acid was detected in a concentration of more than 7 x 10(-4) meq/ml belonged to Group C'. Varelic acid was not detected in Group D; and 7 out of the 8 cases in which iso-valeric acid, irrespective of concentration, was detected belonged to Group D'.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

  10. [Combined inhibition of STAT3 and HIF-1α for enhancement of chemosensitivity in the model of human laryngeal squamous cacinoma in nude mice].

    PubMed

    Lu, Xiuying; Li, Xiaoming; Song, Qi; Ma, Xiuru; Jia, Lifeng

    2016-02-01

    To investigate the effects of combined inhibition of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) and hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) in the enhancement of chemosensitivity of the model of human laryngeal squamous cacinoma in nude mice. Model nude mice were divided into six groups randomly: control group(A) , cisplatin group(B) , cisplatin and AG490 group(C) , cisplatin and HIF-1α⁻/⁻ group (D), cisplatin combined AG490 and HIF-1α⁻/⁻ group (E), HIF-1α⁻/⁻ group (F) (only in calculating tumor inhibition rate). 3mg/kg cisplatin was administered by peritoneal injection for 3 days. Then cisplatin and 10 mg/kg AG490 were administered every other day for 12 days. The expression of Ki67 and HIF-1α was detected by immunocytochemical method. Western blot was used to detect the expression of p-STAT3. The expression of HIF-1α in group C and group D were lower than that in group B, and there were significant difference respectively (t₁ = 2.782, t₂ = 3.873, P < 0.05); The expression of HIF-1α in group E was lower than that in group C and group D respectively, and there were significant difference respectively (t₁ = 6.140, t₂ = 3.667, P < 0.01). The expression level of p-STAT3 in group C was markedly lower compared with that in group B, and there were significant difference between them (t = 17.840, P < 0.01); There were no difference between the expression level of p-STAT3 in group D and that in group B (t = 0.038, P > 0.05); The expression level of p-STAT3 in group E was significantly lower compared with that in group C and group D respectively (P < 0.01). Tumor inhibition rate of group E was higher than that in group B, group C , as well as group D respectively and there were significant difference respectively (t₁ = 5.509, P < 0.01; t₂ = 3.422, P < 0.05; t₃ = 2.718, P < 0.05 ). Ki67 index of group E was lower than that in group B, group C as well as group D respectively and there were significant difference respectively(t₁ = 8.307, P < 0.01; t₂ = 3.736, P < 0.05; t₃ = 4.524, P < 0.01). Combined inhibition of STAT3 and HIF-1α could enhance chemo-sensitivity in the model of human laryngeal squamous cacinoma in nude mice.

  11. Buyanghuanwu Tang therapy for neonatal rats with hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy

    PubMed Central

    Liu, Xiyao; Min, Yue; Gu, Weiwang; Wang, Yujue; Tian, Yuguang

    2015-01-01

    Background: Neonatal hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) is a clinical syndrome manifested by neurological symptoms in the first days of life in term infants. Purpose: To investigate the therapy effect of Buyanghuanwu Tang (BYHWT), a decoction with 7 herbal ingredients, on neonatal rats with hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) and its mechanism. Methods: 50 3-week male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into normal control group, model group, BYHWT 1d group, BYHWT 3d group and BYHWT 7d group, 10 rats in each group. The HIE model of was established in later 4 groups. The later 3 groups were treated with BYHWT for 1, 3 and 7 days, respectively, and the normal control group and model group were treated with PBS. The Morris water maze test and dynamic 18F-FDG-PET/CT imaging were performed. The changes of hippocampal tissue observed by histopathologic examination, and the expressions of JNK1/JNK2 and TNF-α protein were observed western blotting. Results: Compared with model group, the impaired performance on distance and latency parameters was mitigated in BYHWT 1d group, BYHWT 3d group and BYHWT 7d group (P < 0.01), the FDG uptake was decreased in BYHWT 3d group and BYHWT 7d group, the apoptotic cells and inflammatory cells were significantly decreased in BYHWT 3d group and BYHWT 7d group, and the expressions of JNK1/JNK2 and TNF-α protein were significantly decreased in BYHWT 7d group (P < 0.05). Conclusion: BYHWT can delay the HIE onset and preserve the motor function, primarily by regulating inflammation, apoptosis and inhibition by mediating JNK signaling. PMID:26770451

  12. Influence of laser therapy on the dynamic formation of extracellular matrix in standard second degree burns treated with bacterial cellulose membrane.

    PubMed

    Vasconcellos, Patricia Keler Freitas Machado; Nóia, Manuela Pimentel; De Castro, Isabele Cardoso Vieira; Dos Santos, Jean Nunes; Pinheiro, Antonio Luiz B; Marques, Aparecida Maria Cordeiro; Ramos, Eduardo Antonio Gonçalves; Rocha, Clarissa Gurgel

    2018-05-01

    The present study aims to assess the influence of Aluminum-Gallium-Indium-Phosphide laser (AlGaInP laser, λ = 660 nm), whether or not in association with the application of a membrane of bacterial cellulose (Nexfill™), during recovery from induced second-degree burns at the dorsum of Wistar rats. (Rattus norvegicus, Wistar). Forty-eight animals have been distributed into four groups: Control (burns remained untreated), Group I (laser-treated), Group II (treated with Nexfill), and Group III (laser + Nexfill™). In addition to a morphological analysis, immunohistochemical analysis has been performed for type I collagen, type III collagen, fibronectin, and laminin. The Fisher's Test was used to assess differences among groups (p < 0,05). A larger amount of collagen type III was observed in Control, Group II and Group III when compared with Group I (p < 0,05). Group I and Group III have shown a greater collagen deposition when compared with Group II (p < 0,05), but the amount of collagen was similar in Group I, Group III, and Control. Group III has shown larger fibronectin amounts in comparison with Group II (p < 0,05). As regards laminin, Group I has shown a predominant discontinuity pattern on the basal lamina in comparison with Control, Group II, and Group III (p < 0,05). It is concluded that in this current study the laser when used alone (Group I) hasn't influenced collagen deposition neither has it acted on fiber pattern (fibril and/or reticular). Moreover, laser application hasn't accelerated the repair of wounds caused by inflicted second-degree burns. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  13. Varying congruence among spatial patterns of vascular plants and vertebrates based on habitat groups.

    PubMed

    Xu, Haigen; Cao, Yun; Cao, Mingchang; Wu, Jun; Wu, Yi; Le, Zhifang; Cui, Peng; Li, Jiaqi; Ma, Fangzhou; Liu, Li; Hu, Feilong; Chen, Mengmeng; Tong, Wenjun

    2017-11-01

    Proxies are adopted to represent biodiversity patterns due to inadequate information for all taxa. Despite the wide use of proxies, their efficacy remains unclear. Previous analyses focused on overall species richness for fewer groups, affecting the generality and depth of inference. Biological taxa often exhibit very different habitat preferences. Habitat groupings may be an appropriate approach to advancing the study of richness patterns. Diverse geographical patterns of species richness and their potential mechanisms were then examined for habitat groups. We used a database of the spatial distribution of 32,824 species of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians and plants from 2,376 counties across China, divided the five taxa into 30 habitat groups, calculated Spearman correlations of species richness among taxa and habitat groups, and tested five hypotheses about richness patterns using multivariate models. We identified one major group [i.e., forest- and shrub-dependent (FS) groups], and some minor groups such as grassland-dependent vertebrates and desert-dependent vertebrates. There were mostly high or moderate correlations among FS groups, but mostly low or moderate correlations among other habitat groups. The prominent variables differed among habitat groups of the same taxon, such as birds and reptiles. The sets of predictors were also different within the same habitat, such as forests, grasslands, and deserts. Average correlations among the same habitat groups of vertebrates and among habitat groups of a single taxon were low or moderate, except correlations among FS groups. The sets of prominent variables of species richness differed strongly among habitat groups, although elevation range was the most important variable for most FS groups. The ecological and evolutionary processes that underpin richness patterns might be disparate among different habitat groups. Appropriate groupings based on habitats could reveal important patterns of richness gradients and valuable biodiversity components.

  14. Preparation of Calcium Phosphate Cement and Polymethyl Methacrylate for Biological Composite Bone Cements

    PubMed Central

    Yang, Jun; Zhang, Kairui; Zhang, Sheng; Fan, Jiping; Guo, Xinhui; Dong, Weiqiang; Wang, Shengnan; Chen, Yirong; Yu, Bin

    2015-01-01

    Background We studied the biological safety, biomechanics, and tissue compatibility of calcium phosphate cement and Polymethyl Methacrylate composite bone cement mixed in different ratios. Material/Methods CPC and PMMA were mixed in different ratios (3: 1, 2: 1, 1: 1, 1: 2, 1: 5, 1: 10, 1: 15, and 1: 20). PMMA solvent is a general solvent containing a dissolved preparation of the composite bone cement specific to a given specimen to determine biological safety, biomechanics, and tissue compatibility. Results The CPC/PMMA (33%) group, CPC/PMMA (50%) group, CPC/PMMA (67%) group, and CPC/PMMA (75%) group were more in line with the composite bone cement without cytotoxicity requirements. The compressive strength of the CPC/PMMA (67%) group and CPC/PMMA (75%) group was 20Mpa–30Mpa, while that of the CPC/PMMA (4.8%) group, CPC/PMMA (6.25%) group, CPC/PMMA (9.1%) group, CPC/PMMA (16.7%) group, CPC/PMMA (33%) group, and CPC/PMMA (50%) group was 40Mpa–70Mpa. Curing time was longer in the CPC group (more than 11 min) and shorter in the PMMA group (less than 2 min). The results of weight loss rate showed that there were no significant differences between the CPC/PMMA group (4.8%, 6.25%, 9.1%, 16.7%, 33%) and PMMA control group (p>0.05). With the decrease of CPC content, the rate of weight loss gradually decreased. Conclusions The CPC/PMMA (50%) group, CPC/PMMA (67%) group, and CPC/PMMA (75%) group provide greater variability and selectivity for the composite bone cement in obtaining better application. PMID:25904398

  15. Clinical observation on effect of scalp electroacupuncture for mild cognitive impairment.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Hong; Zhao, Ling; Yang, Sha; Chen, Zhigang; Li, Yingkun; Peng, Xiaohong; Yang, Yulong; Zhu, Manjia

    2013-02-01

    To evaluate the therapeutic effect of scalp electroacupuncture for mild cognitive impairment (MCI) in the early stage. Two hundred and thirty three MCI patients were randomly divided into three groups: the drug group, the scalp electroacupuncture group, and the syndrome differentiation group. For the scalp electroacupuncture group, the points of Baihui (DU 20), Sishecong (EX-HN1), Fengchi (GB 20), and Shenting (DU 24) were selected. For the syndrome differentiation group, specific acupoints were added on the basis of syndrome differentiation and according to the scale for the differentiation of syndromes in vascular dementia (SDSVD) beside the acupoints used in the scalp electroacupuncture group. For the drug group, nimodipine was orally administered. Each patient was treated for two courses, eight weeks. The score differences in mini-mental state examination (MMSE), picture recognition, and clock drawing test were observed before and after the treatment. After treatment, the score differences in MMSE and clock drawing test were of obvious statistical significance among three groups (P < 0.01, P < 0.05). The score differences in picture recognition were of extremely statistical significance between the scalp electroacupuncture group and the syndrome differentiation group (P < 0.01), while the difference was not found in the drug group (P > 0.05). There were statistical significant differences in therapeutic effects between the scalp electroacupuncture group and the drug group, and between the syndrome differentiation group and the drug group (P < 0.05), while no statistical difference was found between scalp electroacupuncture group and the syndrome differentiation group (P > 0.05). All the three therapies may improve the cognitive function of MCI patients. The therapeutic effects in the scalp electroacupuncture and syndrome differentiation groups were basically the same, but superior to nimodipine.

  16. Protective effects of N-acetylcysteine on experimentally undescended testis.

    PubMed

    Uyeturk, Ugur; Cetinkaya, Ayhan; Ozyalvacli, Gulzade; Tekce, Buket Kin; Ozyalvacli, Mehmet Emin; Kemahli, Eray; Gucuk, Adnan

    2014-04-01

    We evaluated the efficacy of N-acetylcysteine for testicular damage induced by undescended testes in rats. Flutamide was injected in the abdomen of pregnant rats daily from days 14 to 20 of gestation. Male offspring with cryptorchidism were randomly divided into 2 groups. Healthy male rats without undescended testes comprised the control group (group 1). Group 2 (undescended testes without N-acetylcysteine) received no treatment. Group 3 (undescended testes plus N-acetylcysteine) received intraperitoneal N-acetylcysteine daily. At 70 days after experiment initiation the testes were removed for histopathological and biochemical analysis. Mean malonyl dialdehyde values were lowest in group 1 and highest in group 2. In group 3 malonyl dialdehyde levels were significantly lower than in group 2 (p <0.001). Conversely, mean glutathione peroxidase was highest in group 1 and lowest in group 2. Glutathione peroxidase levels in group 3 were significantly higher than in group 2 (p <0.001). Histopathological differences between groups 1 and 3 in the modified Johnsen score were not significant (p = 0.041). However, the differences between these groups and group 2 were significant (p <0.001). The median apoptotic cell count did not differ between groups 1 and 3 but it was significantly higher in group 2 than in the other groups (p = 0.03 and <0.001, respectively). N-acetylcysteine may alleviate undescended testis induced damage to testes through its antioxidant effects. The underlying mechanism of these effects merits further investigation. Long-term studies are also needed as well as comparative animal and human studies. Copyright © 2014 American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  17. [Application of sumamed in treatment of bacterial vaginal infections during pregnancy].

    PubMed

    Nikolov, A; Shopova, E; Nashar, S; Dimitrov, A

    2008-01-01

    To study the efficacy of Sumamed in cases of endogenous bacterial vaginal infections during third trimester of pregnancy. 34 women in last trimester of pregnancy with Streptococcus group B, Streptococcus group A, alpha hemolytic Streptococci, S. aureus infections and intermediate state of vaginal ecosystem (Nugent score 4-6) were treated with Sumamed (Azithromycin, 500 mg. p.o. for 3 days). Patients were separated in two groups. First group included 19 women with symptomatic and microbiologically proven recurrent vaginal infection during last 6 months. Second group included 15 symptom free pregnant women, in whom, pathogenic bacteria were found on vaginal swab and culture. Culture revealed 2 cases of Streptococcus group A infection in the second study group. Streptococcus group B was isolated in 19 patients--11 group 1 and 8--group 2. S. aureus was found in 6 patients from group 1 and 3 patients from group 2. Alpha hemolytic streptococci were cultured in 4 cases--2 from group 1 and 2 from group 2. Isolated microorganisms showed in vitro sensibility toward Sumamed. After treatment completion, control swab and culture was performed in 26 cases (14 group 1 and 12 group 2 patients). In group 1 in 12 (85,7%) patients no pathological microorganisms were cultured, Nugent scores were between 0-3 and no subjective symptoms were reported. 2 (14,3%) patients had Candida infection. In the second group 10 patients (83,5%) had normal vaginal microbiology, 2(16,5%) remained with intermediate vaginal microflora state. No newborn infections and cases of endometritis were found in both study groups. Sumamed is an efficacious treatment in cases of streptococcal and staphylococcal vaginal infections during pregnancy. Application of Sumamed results in alleviation of clinical symptoms and in sanitation of birth canal.

  18. Oxytocin promotes intuitive rather than deliberated cooperation with the in-group.

    PubMed

    Ten Velden, Femke S; Daughters, Katie; De Dreu, Carsten K W

    2017-06-01

    A contribution to a special issue on Hormones and Human Competition. In intergroup settings, individuals prefer cooperating with their in-group, and sometimes derogate and punish out-groups. Here we replicate earlier work showing that such in-group bounded cooperation is conditioned by oxytocin and extend it by showing that oxytocin-motivated in-group cooperation is intuitive rather than deliberated. Healthy males (N=65) and females (N=129) self-administered intranasal placebo or 24IU oxytocin in a double-blind placebo-controlled between-subjects design, were assigned to a three-person in-group (that faced a 3-person out-group), and given an endowment from which they could contribute to a within-group pool (benefitting the in-group), and/or to a between-group pool (benefitting the in-group and punishing the out-group). Prior to decision-making, participants performed a Stroop Interference task that was either cognitively taxing, or not. Cognitively taxed individuals kept less to themselves and contributed more to the within-group pool. Furthermore, participants receiving placebo contributed more to the within-group pool when they were cognitively taxed rather than not; those receiving oxytocin contributed to the within-group pool regardless of cognitive taxation. Neither taxation nor treatment influenced contributions to the between-group pool, and no significant sex differences were observed. It follows that in intergroup settings (i) oxytocin increases in-group bounded cooperation, (ii) oxytocin neither reduces nor increases out-group directed spite, and (iii) oxytocin-induced in-group cooperation is independent of cognitive taxation and, therefore, likely to be intuitive rather than consciously deliberated. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  19. [Subcutaneous transplants of juvenile rat testicular tissues continue to develop and secret androgen in adult rats].

    PubMed

    Yu, Zhou; Wang, Tong; Cui, Jiangbo; Song, Yajuan; Ma, Xianjie; Su, Yingjun; Peng, Pai

    2017-12-01

    Objective To explore the effects of subcutaneous microenvironment of adult rats on survival, development and androgen secretion of Leydig cells of transplanted juvenile rat testis. Methods Healthy adult SD rats were randomly divided into control group, sham group, castrated group and non-castrated group. Rats in the control group were kept intact, no testis was transplanted subcutaneously after adult recipients were castrated in the sham group; 5-7-day juvenile rat testes were transplanted subcutaneously in the castrated group, with one testis per side; Testes resected from juvenile rats were directly transplanted subcutaneously on both sides of the recipients in the non-castrated group. The grafts were obtained and weighed 4 weeks later. Then the histological features of the grafts were examined by HE staining; the expression and distribution of hydroxysteroid 17-beta dehydrogenase 1 (HSD-17β1) were investigated by immunohistochemistry; and the serum androgen level was determined by ELISA. Results The average mass of grafts obtained from the castrated group was significantly higher than that of the non-castrated group. Immunohistochemistry indicated that Leydig cells were visible in the tissues from both the castrated and non-castrated groups, but the number of HSD-17β1-posotive cells in the castrated group was larger than that in the non-castrated group. ELISA results showed that the serum androgen level was higher in the control group and non-castrated group than in the sham group and castrated group, and compared with the sham group, the serum androgen level in the castrated group was significantly higher. Conclusion The juvenile rat testis subcutaneously transplanted could further develop under the adult recipient rat skin, and the Leydig cells of grafts harbored the ability to produce and secret androgen.

  20. [Pregnancy in the adolescent. IV. Borderline reproductive age risk among adolescents].

    PubMed

    Mathias, L; Nestarez, J E; Kanas, M; Neme, B

    1985-01-01

    This study examined the cases of 557 primiparous adolescents, between the ages of 9 and 19, who gave birth at the Obstetric Clinic of the Medical School of the University of Sao Paulo, Brazil, from January 1975 to June 1980. During this period 13,961 deliveries took place, producing an adolescent pregnancy incidence of 3.9%. Based on previous work, 2 groups were established: Group I, composed of 242 women aged 9 to 16, and Group II, composed of 315 women aged 17 to 19. The greatest number of unwed mothers occurred in Group I, the younger age group (98.4%), compared to 54.3% in Group II. An important characteristic in the younger age group was lack of adequate prenatal care. In Group I only 12% received adequate prenatal care, while in Group II, 28.6% received adequate care. Clearly the greatest frequency of prematurity was in the younger group (28.1% of Group I vs. 12.4% of Group II), along with a higher rate of perinatal mortality (4.9% in Group I vs. 2.5% in Group II). Cases of eclampsia occurred more frequently in the younger adolescents (3.3% of Group I vs 1.6% of Group II), but hypertension was more prevalent among the older adolescents (35.9% in Group II vs. 22.7% in Group I). The authors conclude that during pregnancy all adolescents reach similar biologic and endocrine maturity and display similar obstetric performance. The less satisfactory performance among patients in Group I is primarily due to socioeconomic conditions, inadequate resolution of problems related to acceptance of pregnancy, lack of family support, and inadquate prenatal care. The authors believe that the risks associated with adolescent pregnancy could be substantially reduced if adolescents were better informed and received psychological support and adequate prenatal care.

  1. Evaluation of machinability and flexural strength of a novel dental machinable glass-ceramic.

    PubMed

    Qin, Feng; Zheng, Shucan; Luo, Zufeng; Li, Yong; Guo, Ling; Zhao, Yunfeng; Fu, Qiang

    2009-10-01

    To evaluate the machinability and flexural strength of a novel dental machinable glass-ceramic (named PMC), and to compare the machinability property with that of Vita Mark II and human enamel. The raw batch materials were selected and mixed. Four groups of novel glass-ceramics were formed at different nucleation temperatures, and were assigned to Group 1, Group 2, Group 3 and Group 4. The machinability of the four groups of novel glass-ceramics, Vita Mark II ceramic and freshly extracted human premolars were compared by means of drilling depth measurement. A three-point bending test was used to measure the flexural strength of the novel glass-ceramics. The crystalline phases of the group with the best machinability were identified by X-ray diffraction. In terms of the drilling depth, Group 2 of the novel glass-ceramics proves to have the largest drilling depth. There was no statistical difference among Group 1, Group 4 and the natural teeth. The drilling depth of Vita MK II was statistically less than that of Group 1, Group 4 and the natural teeth. Group 3 had the least drilling depth. In respect of the flexural strength, Group 2 exhibited the maximum flexural strength; Group 1 was statistically weaker than Group 2; there was no statistical difference between Group 3 and Group 4, and they were the weakest materials. XRD of Group 2 ceramic showed that a new type of dental machinable glass-ceramic containing calcium-mica had been developed by the present study and was named PMC. PMC is promising for application as a dental machinable ceramic due to its good machinability and relatively high strength.

  2. Continuing Exposure to Low-Dose Nonylphenol Aggravates Adenine-Induced Chronic Renal Dysfunction and Role of Rosuvastatin Therapy

    PubMed Central

    2012-01-01

    Background Nonylphenol (NP), an environmental organic compound, has been demonstrated to enhance reactive-oxygen species (ROS) synthesis. Chronic exposure to low-dose adenine (AD) has been reported to induce chronic kidney disease (CKD). Methods In this study, we tested the hypothesis that chronic exposure to NP will aggravate AD-induced CKD through increasing generations of inflammation, ROS, and apoptosis that could be attenuated by rosuvastatin. Fifty male Wistar rats were equally divided into group 1 (control), group 2 (AD in fodder at a concentration of 0.25%), group 3 (NP: 2 mg/kg/day), group 4 (combined AD & NP), and group 5 (AD-NP + rosuvastatin: 20 mg/kg/day). Treatment was continued for 24 weeks for all animals before being sacrificed. Results By the end of 24 weeks, serum blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine levels were increased in group 4 than in groups 1–3, but significantly reduced in group 5 as compared with group 4 (all p < 0.05). Histopathology scorings of renal-parenchymal and tubular damages were significantly higher in group 4 than in groups 1–3, but remarkably lower in group 5 compared with group 4 (all p < 0.01). Both gene and protein levels of inflammation, oxidative stress, ROS, and cellular apoptosis were remarkably higher in group 4 compared with groups 1–3, but lowered in group 5 than in group 4 (all p < 0.001). Conversely, both gene and protein levels of anti-oxidants, anti-inflammation and anti-apoptosis were markedly increased in group 5 compared with group 4 (all p < 0.001). Conclusion NP worsened AD-induced CKD that could be reversed by rosuvastatin therapy. PMID:22812704

  3. Defining functional groups based on running kinematics using Self-Organizing Maps and Support Vector Machines.

    PubMed

    Hoerzer, Stefan; von Tscharner, Vinzenz; Jacob, Christian; Nigg, Benno M

    2015-07-16

    A functional group is a collection of individuals who react in a similar way to a specific intervention/product such as a sport shoe. Matching footwear features to a functional group can possibly enhance footwear-related comfort, improve running performance, and decrease the risk of movement-related injuries. To match footwear features to a functional group, one has to first define the different groups using their distinctive movement patterns. Therefore, the main objective of this study was to propose and apply a methodological approach to define functional groups with different movement patterns using Self-Organizing Maps and Support Vector Machines. Further study objectives were to identify differences in age, gender and footwear-related comfort preferences between the functional groups. Kinematic data and subjective comfort preferences of 88 subjects (16-76 years; 45 m/43 f) were analysed. Eight functional groups with distinctive movement patterns were defined. The findings revealed that most of the groups differed in age or gender. Certain functional groups differed in their comfort preferences and, therefore, had group-specific footwear requirements to enhance footwear-related comfort. Some of the groups, which had group-specific footwear requirements, did not show any differences in age or gender. This is important because when defining functional groups simply using common grouping criteria like age or gender, certain functional groups with group-specific movement patterns and footwear requirements might not be detected. This emphasises the power of the proposed pattern recognition approach to automatically define groups by their distinctive movement patterns in order to be able to address their group-specific product requirements. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  4. Effects of Stinging Nettle (Urtica Dioica L.,) on Antioxidant Enzyme Activities in Rat Model of Mammary Gland Cancer

    PubMed Central

    Telo, Selda; Halifeoglu, Ihsan; Ozercan, Ibrahim Hanifi

    2017-01-01

    Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica L.,) is a medicinal herb commonly used by humans. The role of reactive oxygen metabolites on cancer etiology is known. There are some studies about the antioxidant effects of Urtica Dioica (UD) on therapy of some cancer types. This study aimed to investigate the effects of UD on antioxidant enzyme activities and mammary gland cancer induced by in rats-N-methyl-N-nitrosourea (NMU) carcinogenesis. Rats were divided into four groups: a untreated group (Group 1), a NMU group (Group 2) given 50 mg/kg NMU by intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection, a NMU group (Group 3) treated with UD, a control group (Group 4) fed with 50g/kg UD. After 5.5 months, rats were decapitated, and mammary tissue and blood samples were obtained. There was a significant (p<0.05, p<0.01, respectively) increase in plasma malondialdehyde (MDA) levels of group 2 compared with group 1 and 4. The superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity of the erythrocytes was decreased in group 3 than the other groups (p<0.0001). The erythrocyte catalase (CAT) activity was significantly increased in group 4 compared with group 2 and 3 (p<0.05, p<0.01, respectively). The number of animals with palpable tumors was 6 (46.15%) in group 2, and 2 (13.3%) in group 3 at the end of the 22nd week. Although group 3 had lower palpable tumor number than group 2, the difference was not statistically significant (p=0.096). The results showed that UD constituents may have effects on lipid peroxidation and some antioxidant enzyme activities, and may slow the formation of mammary tumor. PMID:29844787

  5. Strain of implants depending on occlusion types in mandibular implant-supported fixed prostheses

    PubMed Central

    Sohn, Byoung-Sup; Heo, Seong-Joo; Koak, Jai-Young; Kim, Seong-Kyun

    2011-01-01

    PURPOSE This study investigated the strain of implants using a chewing simulator with strain gauges in mandibular implant-supported fixed prostheses under various dynamic loads. MATERIALS AND METHODS Three implant-supported 5-unit fixed prostheses were fabricated with three different occlusion types (Group I: Canine protected occlusion, Group II: Unilaterally balanced occlusion, Group III: Bilaterally balanced occlusion). Two strain gauges were attached to each implant abutment. The programmed dynamic loads (0 - 300 N) were applied using a chewing simulator (MTS 858 Mini Bionix II systems, MTS systems corp., Minn, USA) and the strains were monitored. The statistical analyses were performed using the paired t-test and the ANOVA. RESULTS The mean strain values (MSV) for the working sides were 151.83 µε, 176.23 µε, and 131.07 µε for Group I, Group II, and Group III, respectively. There was a significant difference between Group II and Group III (P < .05). Also, the MSV for non-working side were 58.29 µε, 72.64 µε, and 98.93 µε for Group I, Group II, and Group III, respectively. One was significantly different from the others with a 95% confidence interval (P < .05). CONCLUSION The MSV for the working side of Groups I and II were significantly different from that for the non-working side (Group I: t = 7.58, Group II: t = 6.25). The MSV for the working side of Group II showed significantly larger than that of Group III (P < .01). Lastly, the MSV for the non-working side of Group III showed significantly larger than those of Group I or Group II (P < .01). PMID:21503186

  6. Puerarin Up-regulates Methyl-CpG Binding Protein 2 Phosphorylation in Hippocampus of Vascular Dementia Rats.

    PubMed

    Wang, Hu-Qing; Zhang, Meng; Zhao, Jia-Xin; Wu, Hai-Qin; Gao, Zhen; Zhang, Gui-Lian; Zhang, Ru

    2018-05-01

    To observe the effect of puerarin on methyl-CpG binding protein 2 (MeCP2) phosphorylation (pMeCP2) in the hippocampus of a rat model of vascular dementia (VD). Thirty-six healthy Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly assigned to the sham-operated group, dementia group and puerarintreated group using a random number table (n=12 per group). The modifified permanent bilateral common carotid artery occlusion method was used to establish the VD model. The sham-operated and dementia groups were given 2 mL/d of saline, while the puerarin-treated group was given 100 mg/(kg•d) of puerarin for 17 days. The learning and memory abilities were evaluated by the Morris water maze test. Hematoxylin-eosin staining, immunohistochemical (IHC) staining and Western blot analysis were carried out to observe changes in neuron morphology and in level of pMeCP2 in the hippocampus, respectively. The morphologies of rat hippocampal neurons in the puerarintreated group were markedly improved compared with the dementia group. The escape latency of the dementia group was significantly longer than the sham-operated group (P<0.05), while the puerarin-treated group was obviously shorter than the dementia group (P<0.05). Cross-platform times of the dementia group were signifificantly decreased compared with the sham-operated group (P<0.05), while the puerarin-treated group was obviously increased compared with the dementia group (P<0.05). IHC staining showed no significant difference in the number of MeCP2 positive cells among 3 groups (P>0.05). The number of pMeCP2 positive cells in the CA1 region of hippocampus in the dementia group was signifificantly increased compared with the sham-operated group, and the puerarin-treated group was signifificantly increased compared with the dementia group (both P<0.05). Western blot analysis showed no signifificant difference of MeCP2 expression among 3 groups (P>0.05). The expression of pMeCP2 in the dementia group was signifificantly increased compared with the sham-operated group, while it in the puerarin-treated group was signifificantly increased compared with the dementia group (P<0.05). Puerarin could play a role in the protection of nerve cells through up-regulating pMeCP2 in the hippocampus, improving neuron morphologies, and enhancing learning and memory ablities in a rat model of VD.

  7. [Neuroprotective effect of erigeron breviscapus (vant) hand-mazz on NMDA-induced retinal neuron injury in the rats].

    PubMed

    Shi, Jingming; Jiag, Youqin; Liu, Xuyang

    2004-07-01

    To investigate if Erigeron Breviscapus (vant) Hand-Mazz (EBHM) has a neuroprotective effect against NMDA-induced neuron death in retinal ganglion cell layer (RGCL). Sixty healthy SD rats were randomly divided into four groups. 6 animals were in normal control group (group A). The others were divided as group B (EBHM group), group C (normal saline+NMDA group), group D (EBHM+NMDA group). Each group has 18 rats. 10 nmol NMDA was chosen for intravitreal injection to cause partial damage of the neurons in RGCL in the right eyes of Groups C and D. Same volume PBS was intravitreal injected in the left eyes as self-control. Groups B and D were pre-treated intraperitoneally with 6% EBHM solution at a dose of 15 mg x 100 g(-1) x d(-1) seven days before and after NMDA treatment. Group C were administrated intraperitoneally with 0.9% normal saline at the same time of EBHM injection. Rats were sacrificed in 4, 7, 14 days after NMDA treatment. Flat preparation of whole retinas were stained with 0.5% cresyl violet and neuron counting in RGCL from both eyes. Each subgroup has 6 rats. There was no significant difference between the right eye and the left eye of neuron counting from RGCL in normal control group (group A) (P=0.200). There was no significant difference between normal control group and EBHM group either in the right eyes or in the left eye in 4 days, 7 days and 14 days respectively after intravitreal injection of 10 nmol NMDA in group C and group D. (P=0.636, P=0.193). Neuron counting from RGCL of group C and group D were significant decreased in the NMDA-treated eyes in 4 days, 7 days and 14 days after intravitreal injection (P < 0.001). There ws no significant difference between self-control eyes and normal control group (P > 0.05). Neuron counting was significantly higher in the EBHM+NMDA group than normal saline+NMDA group at 14 days after intraviteal injection (P=0.044). However,it is obvious that the difference was still significant between normal control group and EBHM+NMDA group (P < 0.05). EBHM has no effect on neuron counting of RGCL when administered alone in normal rats. It is suggested that EBHM has partial protective effect on NMDA-induced neuron loss in RGCL in the rat.

  8. Phylogenetic relationships and morphology of the Pristimantis leptolophus species group (Amphibia: Anura: Brachycephaloidea), with the recognition of a new species group in Pristimantis Jiménez de la Espada, 1870.

    PubMed

    González-Durán, Gustavo A; Targino, Mariane; Rada, Marco; Grant, Taran

    2017-03-13

    We evaluate the monophyly and phylogenetic relationships of the Pristimantis leptolophus species group and describe its external morphology, osteology, and some myological characteristics. We also compare the P. leptolophus species group to other related species groups. The P. leptolophus group is not monophyletic due to the inclusion of P. acatallelus, formerly believed to be part of the P. devillei group. The revised P. leptolophus group is composed of nine named species and six unnamed species. Based on our results, we recognize a new species group, the P. boulengeri species group, composed of eight species, many of which were previously assigned to the P. lacrimosus species group.

  9. Exploring the disruptive effects of psychopathy and aggression on group processes and group effectiveness.

    PubMed

    Baysinger, Michael A; Scherer, Kelly T; LeBreton, James M

    2014-01-01

    The present research examines the influence of implicit and explicit personality characteristics on group process and effectiveness. Individuals from 112 groups participated in 2 problem-solving tasks and completed measures of group process and effectiveness. Results indicated that groups characterized by higher levels of psychopathy and implicit aggression tended to have more dysfunctional interactions and negative perceptions of the group. In addition, task participation and negative socioemotional behaviors fully mediated the relationship between group personality traits and group commitment and cohesion, and negative socioemotional behaviors fully mediated the relationship between group personality and performance on both tasks. Implications of antisocial traits for group interactions and performance, as well as for future theory and research, are discussed. PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2014 APA, all rights reserved

  10. Attachment theory and group processes: the association between attachment style and group-related representations, goals, memories, and functioning.

    PubMed

    Rom, Eldad; Mikulincer, Mario

    2003-06-01

    Four studies examined attachment-style differences in group-related cognitions and behaviors. In Studies 1-2, participants completed scales on group-related cognitions and emotions. In Studies 3-4, participants were divided into small groups, and their performance in group tasks as well as the cohesion of their group were assessed. Both attachment anxiety and avoidance in close relationships were associated with negative group-related cognitions and emotions. Anxiety was also related to the pursuit of closeness goals and impaired instrumental performance in group tasks. Avoidance was related to the pursuit of distance goals and deficits in socioemotional and instrumental performance. Group cohesion significantly moderated the effects of attachment anxiety. The discussion emphasizes the relevance of attachment theory within group contexts.

  11. Introduction to sporadic groups for physicists

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Boya, Luis J.

    2013-04-01

    We describe the collection of finite simple groups, with a view to physical applications. We recall first the prime cyclic groups Zp and the alternating groups Altn > 4. After a quick revision of finite fields {F}_q, q = pf, with p prime, we consider the 16 families of finite simple groups of Lie type. There are also 26 extra ‘sporadic’ groups, which gather in three interconnected ‘generations’ (with 5+7+8 groups) plus the pariah groups (6). We point out a couple of physical applications, including constructing the biggest sporadic group, the ‘Monster’ group, with close to 1054 elements from arguments of physics, and also the relation of some Mathieu groups with compactification in string and M-theory. This article is dedicated to the memory of Juan Sancho Guimerá.

  12. Empirical study on social groups in pedestrian evacuation dynamics

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    von Krüchten, Cornelia; Schadschneider, Andreas

    2017-06-01

    Pedestrian crowds often include social groups, i.e. pedestrians that walk together because of social relationships. They show characteristic configurations and influence the dynamics of the entire crowd. In order to investigate the impact of social groups on evacuations we performed an empirical study with pupils. Several evacuation runs with groups of different sizes and different interactions were performed. New group parameters are introduced which allow to describe the dynamics of the groups and the configuration of the group members quantitatively. The analysis shows a possible decrease of evacuation times for large groups due to self-ordering effects. Social groups can be approximated as ellipses that orientate along their direction of motion. Furthermore, explicitly cooperative behaviour among group members leads to a stronger aggregation of group members and an intermittent way of evacuation.

  13. Nonlinear dynamics in the perceptual grouping of connected surfaces.

    PubMed

    Hock, Howard S; Schöner, Gregor

    2016-09-01

    Evidence obtained using the dynamic grouping method has shown that the grouping of an object's connected surfaces has properties characteristic of a nonlinear dynamical system. When a surface's luminance changes, one of its boundaries is perceived moving across the surface. The direction of this dynamic grouping (DG) motion indicates which of two flanking surfaces has been grouped with the changing surface. A quantitative measure of overall grouping strength (affinity) for adjacent surfaces is provided by the frequency of DG motion perception in directions promoted by the grouping variables. It was found that: (1) variables affecting surface grouping for three-surface objects evolve over time, settling at stable levels within a single fixation, (2) how often DG motion is perceived when a surface's luminance is perturbed (changed) depends on the pre-perturbation affinity state of the surface grouping, (3) grouping variables promoting the same surface grouping combine cooperatively and nonlinearly (super-additively) in determining the surface grouping's affinity, (4) different DG motion directions during different trials indicate that surface grouping can be bistable, which implies that inhibitory interactions have stabilized one of two alternative surface groupings, and (5) when alternative surface groupings have identical affinity, stochastic fluctuations can break the symmetry and inhibitory interactions can then stabilize one of the surface groupings, providing affinity levels are not too high (which results in bidirectional DG motion). A surface-grouping network is proposed within which boundaries vary in salience. Low salience or suppressed boundaries instantiate surface grouping, and DG motion results from changes in boundary salience. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  14. Hyperforin alleviates mood deficits of adult rats suffered from early separation.

    PubMed

    Zhu, Minghui; Liu, Chunhua; Qin, Xuan; Yang, Zhuo

    2015-11-03

    In this study, we aimed to explore the effect of hyperforin (Hyp) on adult rats suffered from early separation. Wistar infant rats were randomly divided into three groups: control group (CON), early separation from parents group (ESP), and early separation from parents+treatment with 3mg/kg/day Hyp group (ESP+Hyp). Postnatal rats of ESP group and ESP+Hyp group were separated from their mothers for 6h every day on the 14th day after birth, and this separation lasted for 3 weeks, while rats of CON group had no separation. Hyperforin was intragastric administrated on the 21th day after birth, and lasted for 2 weeks in ESP+Hyp group. After separation, adult rats were evaluated by using the open field test (OFT), novelty suppressed feeding test (NSF) and forced swimming test (FST). In OFT, time spent in central grids was much shorter in ESP group compared with that of CON group. After treatment with hyperforin, time spent in central area was much longer compared with that of ESP group. In NSF, the feeding latency of ESP group was much longer than that of CON group. After treatment with hyperforin, the feeding latency was shorter compared with that of ESP group. In FST, score of ESP group was markedly higher than that of CON group. Interestingly, the score was obviously lower in ESP+Hyp group than that of ESP group. In conclusion, these results suggest that hyperforin is able to alleviate anxiety and remit depression in ESP rats. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

  15. Effects of overtraining on skeletal muscle growth and gene expression.

    PubMed

    Xiao, W; Chen, P; Dong, J

    2012-10-01

    The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of overtraining on skeletal muscle growth and growth-related gene expression. The rats of overtraining group (OT) and overtraining recovery group (OTR) were subject to 11 experimental weeks of overtraining protocol. It was found that the absolute gastrocnemius muscle wet weight of the OT group was significantly lower than that of the sedentary group (23.6%, P<0.01). Serum creatine kinase was significantly higher in the OT and OTR groups than the sedentary group. CD68, CD163, MyoD, myogenin, IL-1β, TNF-α, IGF-I and MGF mRNA did not change in the OT group as compared with the sedentary group. IL-6 and TGF-β1 mRNA in the OT group increased significantly as compared with the sedentary group (2.17 fold and 1.78 fold, respectively; P<0.01). IL-10 mRNA decreased significantly in the OT group (63%, P<0.01) and the OTR group (77%, P<0.01) compared to the sedentary group. COX-2 mRNA decreased significantly in the OT group (60%, P<0.01) and the OTR group (69%, P<0.01) from the sedentary group. uPA mRNA in the OT group was significantly lower than that in the sedentary group (32%, P<0.01). These data suggest that inflammatory cytokines, COX-2 and uPA may play roles in the inhibition of skeletal muscle growth induced by overtraining. © Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

  16. A Clinical Evaluation of Deproteinization and Different Cavity Designs on Resin Restoration Performance in MIH-Affected Molars: Two-Year Results.

    PubMed

    Sönmez, Hayriye; Saat, Sinem

    The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical effects of deproteinization of the hypomineralized enamel and different cavity designs on the performance of the composite resin restorations(CRRs) placed into the cavities of MIH (molar incisor hypomineralization)-affected molars. 95 MIH-affected permanent first molars (PFMs) and 31 caries but not MIH-affected PFMs (126 teeth in total) were included in the study. The MIH-affected molars were divided into three groups. In Group I, all hypomineralized tissue was removed until healthy enamel was reached. In Group II, carious and cheesy hypomineralized tissue was removed until a reasonable resistance was detected in the hypomineralized tissue. In Group III, cavities designed as Group II, differently from this group deproteinization of the left hypomineralized tissue was performed prior to the placement of CRRs. Group IV served as the control group consisting of unaffected carious PFMs. Restorations were evaluated according to modified USPHS criteria for 24 months. The retention rates were 93.7% for Group I, 80.7% for Group II, 93.5% for Group III and 100% for Group IV. The success rate for the restorations in Group II proved significantly lower (p<0.05) than that of the other three groups. No significant difference in success rates was observed between Group I, Group III and Group IV (p>0.05) at the end of 24 months. Failure of the restorations was predominant in the group that the hypomineralized tissue was left surrounding the cavities. Deproteinization of the hypomineralized enamel was found to enhance the retention rates of CRRs.

  17. Hypolipidemic Effect of Red Gram (Cajanus cajan L.) Prebiotic Oligosaccharides in Wistar NIN Rats.

    PubMed

    Shakappa, Devindra; Talari, Aruna; Rajkumar, Hemalatha; Shujauddin, Mohammed

    2017-08-24

    The hypolipidemic effect of red gram prebiotics of raffinose family oligosaccharides was studied in Wistar National Institute of Nutrition male rat strain. The study consisted of 36 rats randomly divided into three groups of 12 rats each. For 16 weeks, Group I was fed with the control diet; Group II was fed with a diet containing 3% standard raffinose as the reference group; Group III received the diet containing 3% red gram prebiotics. The results showed that the gain in body weight was low in the red gram prebiotics-supplemented group followed by the control group; highest increase of body weight was seen in the raffinose standard-fed group. Serum glucose levels of the red gram prebiotic-fed group decreased 14.92% compared to the control group and increased 2.07% compared to the reference group. The decrease in serum triglycerides (TG) levels of the red gram prebiotic-fed groups was 32.76% compared to the control group and 33.64% compared to the reference group. Decrease in the serum TC of the red gram-fed animals was 18.51% and 4.63% compared to the control group and the reference group, respectively. Increase in the level of serum high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) in the red gram-fed animals was 18.51% compared to the control group and 4.63% compared to the reference group. The present study can be a proof for the use of prebiotics as a preventive measure for overweight and obesity in humans, and legume prebiotics can be explored as a novel prebiotic product in the consumer market.

  18. Striving for group agency: threat to personal control increases the attractiveness of agentic groups

    PubMed Central

    Stollberg, Janine; Fritsche, Immo; Bäcker, Anna

    2015-01-01

    When their sense of personal control is threatened people try to restore perceived control through the social self. We propose that it is the perceived agency of ingroups that provides the self with a sense of control. In three experiments, we for the first time tested the hypothesis that threat to personal control increases the attractiveness of being part or joining those groups that are perceived as coherent entities engaging in coordinated group goal pursuit (agentic groups) but not of those groups whose agency is perceived to be low. Consistent with this hypothesis we found in Study 1 (N = 93) that threat to personal control increased ingroup identification only with task groups, but not with less agentic types of ingroups that were made salient simultaneously. Furthermore, personal control threat increased a sense of collective control and support within the task group, mediated through task-group identification (indirect effects). Turning to groups people are not (yet) part of, Study 2 (N = 47) showed that personal control threat increased relative attractiveness ratings of small groups as possible future ingroups only when the relative agency of small groups was perceived to be high. Perceived group homogeneity or social power did not moderate the effect. Study 3 (N = 78) replicated the moderating role of perceived group agency for attractiveness ratings of entitative groups, whereas perceived group status did not moderate the effect. These findings extend previous research on group-based control, showing that perceived agency accounts for group-based responses to threatened control. PMID:26074832

  19. Suppression effects of negative pressure on the proliferation and metastasis in human pancreatic cancer cells.

    PubMed

    Yang, Xiujiang; Sun, Bo; Zhu, Haihang; Jiang, Ziting

    2015-01-01

    The aim was to explore the effect of negative pressure on the proliferation and metastasis of human pancreatic cancer SW1990 cells. Three groups were conducted in the work: normal control group (NC group, 0 mm Hg), low negative pressure group (LN group, -300 mm Hg), and high negative pressure group (HN group, -600 mm Hg). Cell morphological assay was conducted using an inverted Nikon TE2000-S microscope. Cell viability was assayed using cell counting kit-8 solution. Cell apoptosis was evaluated with flow cytometry. Cell migration was investigated using transwell assay. Compared to LN and HN groups, SW1990 cells in NC group grew quite well, showing a higher density. The NC group represented the highest cell viability. The HN group represented the lowest cell viability, which was lower than that of the LN group (P < 0.01). The apoptosis rate in NC group, LN group and HN group was 1.91% ± 0.13%, 2.31% ± 0.06% and 15.22% ± 0.81%, respectively (P < 0.05). The average number of migration cells in NC group was 53.60 ± 4.14 (× 200), which was decreased to 18.93 ± 3.67 and 11.07 ± 3.01 in LN group and HN group, respectively (P < 0.01). The negative pressure shows suppression effects on the proliferation and metastasis of human pancreatic cancer SW1990 cells. It is indicated that negative pressure may be involved in the development of human pancreatic cancer by influencing cell biological characteristics.

  20. The Efficacy of Boric Acid Used to Treat Experimental Osteomyelitis Caused by Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus: an In Vivo Study.

    PubMed

    Güzel, Yunus; Golge, Umut H; Goksel, Ferdi; Vural, Ahmet; Akcay, Muruvvet; Elmas, Sait; Turkon, Hakan; Unver, Ahmet

    2016-10-01

    We explored the ability of local and systemic applications of boric acid (BA) to reduce the numbers of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in a rat model of tibial osteomyelitis (OM), and compared boric acid with vancomycin (V). Implant-associated osteomyelitis was established in 35 rats. After 4 weeks, at which time OM was evident both radiologically and serologically in all animals, the rats were divided into five groups of equal number: group 1, control group (no local application of BA or other medication); group 2, V group; group 3, local BA + V group; group 4, local BA group; and group 5, local + systemic BA group. Serum total antioxidant status, and the levels of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and interleukin (IL)-6, were measured. Pathological changes attributable to bone OM were evaluated using a grading system. Bacterial colony-forming units (CFUs) per gram of bone were counted. The lowest bacterial numbers were evident in group 3, and the bacterial numbers were significantly lower than that of the control group in all four test groups (p < 0.001). Group 3 also had the least severe bone infection (OM score 1.7 ± 1.1, p < 0.05). Upon histological and microbiological evaluation, no significant difference was evident between groups 2 and 3. Total antioxidant levels were significantly different in all treatment groups compared to the control group. Microbiological and histopathological evaluation showed that systemic or local application of BA was effective to treat OM, although supplementary V increased the effectiveness of BA.

  1. Inter-Group and Intra-Group Assertiveness: Adolescents' Social Skills Following Cultural Transition

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Korem, Anat; Horenczyk, Gabriel; Tatar, Moshe

    2012-01-01

    The goals of this study were to examine intra-group and inter-group assertiveness among adolescents, and to compare these two domains of assertiveness between cultural groups in Israel. Measures of intra-group and inter-group assertiveness were developed, and questionnaires were administrated to 441 immigrants from the Former Soviet Union (FSU),…

  2. Small Group Learning: Do Group Members' Implicit Theories of Ability Make a Difference?

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Beckmann, Nadin; Wood, Robert E.; Minbashian, Amirali; Tabernero, Carmen

    2012-01-01

    We examined the impact of members' implicit theories of ability on group learning and the mediating role of several group process variables, such as goal-setting, effort attributions, and efficacy beliefs. Comparisons were between 15 groups with a strong incremental view on ability (high incremental theory groups), and 15 groups with a weak…

  3. 49 CFR Appendix A to Part 544 - Issuers of Motor Vehicle Insurance Policies Subject to the Reporting Requirements in Each State...

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-10-01

    ... Group Auto Club Enterprise Insurance Group Auto-Owners Insurance Group Berkshire Hathaway/GEICO... Insurance Companies Metropolitan Life Auto & Home Group Mercury General Group Nationwide Group Progressive...

  4. 49 CFR Appendix A to Part 544 - Issuers of Motor Vehicle Insurance Policies Subject to the Reporting Requirements in Each State...

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-10-01

    ... Group Auto Club Enterprise Insurance Group Auto-Owners Insurance Group Berkshire Hathaway/GEICO... Insurance Companies Metropolitan Life Auto & Home Group Mercury General Group Nationwide Group Progressive...

  5. [Effect of low dose aspirin on osseointegration around titanium implants in osteoporotic rats].

    PubMed

    Yang, Q; Li, F L

    2018-02-09

    Objective: To investigate the effect of aspirin on osseointegration around titanium implants in ostoeporotic rats and to provide evidence for future researches and clinical application. Methods: A total of 60 female SD rats, aged 3-4 months, were divided into ovariectomy group (Ovx group, n= 48) and sham-ovariectomy group (Sham group, n= 12). The rats in Ovx group received ovariectomy and those in Sham group underwent sham-ovariectomy. Twelve weeks later, six rats in each group were randomly selected to confirm the osteoporosis models. The Ovx group was divided into 4 subgroups with 12 rats in each group, namely the osteoporosis group (OP group), and Aspirin groups (A1, A2, A3 group). Pure screw titanium implants were placed in the right tibia near metaphysis of all rats. Three days after implant surgery, aspirin groups were intragastrically administered aspirin at a dose of 2.06, 4.11, 8.21 mg·kg(-1)·d(-1) (A1, A2, A3), and OP group and Sham group were fed the same amount of normal saline. Four and 12 weeks following implantations surgery, half of the rats in each group were randomly chosen and sacrificed. Implant bone contact rate (IBCR), combined bone lamella width (CBLW) and trabercular width (TW) were observed and calculated using histomorphometric measurement. Results: Four weeks after implantations surgery, the TW and CBLW of rats in A1 group [(39.60±2.77) and (27.56±4.14) μm] and the IBCR, TW and CBLW of rats in A2 group and A3 group [A2: (47.21±4.19)%, (48.74±3.20) and (35.91±3.79) μm; A3: (47.35±6.07)%, (50.27±5.25) and (40.66±2.11) μm] were much higher than those in OP group [(33.89±7.17)%, (32.20±6.10) and (19.77±6.80) μm]( P< 0.05). In term of CBLW, there were no difference between A3 group and Sham group [(46.11±5.87) μm]( P> 0.05). Twelve weeks after implantations surgery, the IBCR and CBLW of rats in A1 group [ (85.86±3.64) %, (53.12±8.68) μm], and the IBCR, TW and CBLW of rats in A2 group and A3 group [A2: (85.64±3.97)%, (69.42±6.78) and (54.19±3.12) μm; A3: (86.22±3.48)%, (75.43±3.50) and (55.79±5.60) μm] were much higher than those in OP group [(77.20±7.14)%, (55.10±2.26) and (41.77±3.13) μm]( P< 0.05). In term of IBCR, there were no difference among A1 group, A2 group, A3 group and Sham group [(90.09±2.21)%]( P> 0.05). Conclusions: The low dose aspirin could promote IBCR, CBLW and TW of osteoporotic rats implants.

  6. [Effects of Chinese herbal medicine Yiqi Huayu Recipe on apoptosis of dorsal root ganglion neurons and expression of caspase-3 in rats with lumbar nerve root compression].

    PubMed

    Xu, Le-qin; Li, Xiao-feng; Zhang, You-wei; Shu, Bing; Shi, Qi; Wang, Yong-jun; Zhou, Chong-jian

    2010-12-01

    To observe the effects of Yiqi Huayu Recipe, a Chinese compound herbal medicine, on apoptosis of dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons and expression of caspase-3 in rats after lumbar nerve root compression injury. A total of 40 male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly allocated into 4 groups: control group, untreated group, Methylcobal group and Yiqi Huayu Recipe group. Surgery was performed on rats of untreated group, Methylcobal group and Yiqi Huayu Recipe group to place a micro-silica gel on right L₄ DRG, while control group received skin and paravertebral muscle incision only. Rats in Methylcobal group and Yiqi Huayu Recipe group were given Methylcobal by intramuscular injection and Yiqi Huayu Recipe intragastrically respectively. Rats in control group and untreated group received saline intragastrically as equal amount as Yiqi Huayu Recipe group. The compressed nerve roots were harvested at the 10th day after treatment. Apoptosis of DRG neurons was detected by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated nick-end labeling. Caspase-3 activity and mRNA expression in compressed nerve roots were detected with spectrophotography and real-time polymerase chain reaction respectively. Apoptosis of DRG neurons was significantly increased in the rat model. The apoptosis index of untreated group was higher than that of control group (P<0.01). Yiqi Huayu Recipe and Methylcobal could reduce the apoptosis of DRG neurons, and both groups showed a lower apoptosis index than untreated group (P<0.01). Caspase-3 activity and its gene expression were significantly increased in untreated group. The levels of caspase-3 activity and its gene expression in untreated group were higher than those in control group (P<0.05 or P<0.01). Yiqi Huayu Recipe and Methylcobal could reduce the overexpression of caspase-3 mRNA, and statistically significant differences were found between the untreated group and Yiqi Huayu Recipe group or Methylcobal group (P<0.01). Lumbar nerve root compression results in overexpression of caspase-3 in nerve root tissue and increase of DRG neuron apoptosis. Yiqi Huayu Recipe can inhibit the overexpression of caspase-3 and alleviate the apoptosis of DRG neurons after nerve injury.

  7. Clinical evaluation of frozen/thawed embryo transfer following transport of oocytes and embryos

    PubMed Central

    2004-01-01

    Background and Aims:  We evaluated the efficacy of the transport oocyte/embryo frozen/thawed embryo transfer method, in which oocytes or embryos were transported from satellite clinics to the main assisted reproductive technology (ART) center, and surplus embryos were placed in cryopreservation. Methods:  We evaluated 41 cycles in 34 patients in the transport oocyte group (TO group). In the TO group the oocytes were collected at the satellite clinics, transported to the main ART center and underwent in vitro fertilization or intracytoplasmic sperm injection. Surplus embryos were used for frozen/thawed embryo transfer. We also evaluated 17 cycles in 10 patients in the transport embryo group (TE group), where surplus embryos were transported to the main ART center and used for frozen/thawed embryo transfer; and 189 cycles in 134 patients in the center group (C group), where surplus embryos collected at the same time at the main ART center were used for frozen/thawed embryo transfer. Oocytes were transported from satellite clinics in HEPES buffered human tubal fluid (HTF) culture medium, and embryos in 30% synthetic serum substitute + HEPES buffered HTF, using a portable incubator we devised. Results:  The proportions of undamaged embryos after freeze/thawing were 47% for the C group, 46% for the TO group, and 46% for the TE group. The numbers of embryos transferred were 2.0 ± 0.7 for the C group, 2.0 ± 0.6 for the TO group, and 2.2 ± 0.4 for the TE group. The rate of embryo transfer was 63% for the C group, 68% for the TO group, and 76% for the TE group. Pregnancy rates per patient were 16% for the C group, 24% for the TO group, and 40% for the TE group. The embryo survival rates (number of embryos with ≥50% viable blastomeres/total number of embryos) were 55% for the C group, 60% for the TO group, and 54% for the TE group. No significant differences were seen between the C group and either the TO or TE groups in any of these parameters. Conclusions:  Favorable results were achieved with the transport oocyte/embryo frozen/thawed embryo transfer method, and it is suitable for widespread clinical application. (Reprod Med Biol 2004; 3: 1–8) PMID:29662379

  8. [Protective effect of garlic oil given at different time against acute liver injury induced by CCl4].

    PubMed

    Zhang, Gui-li; Zeng, Tao; Wang, Qing-shan; Zhao, Xiu-lan; Song, Fu-yong; Xie, Ke-qin

    2010-03-01

    To observe and compare the protective effect of garlic oil against carbon tetrachloride (CCL)-induced acute liver injury. The experiments include 4 preventive groups and 2 therapeutic groups. In every preventive and therapeutic group, the mice were randomized into 6 groups with 15 each, including one negative control group, one solvent control group, one CCl4 model group and 3 garlic oil groups (25, 50, and 100 mg/kg body weight). Before given a single gavage of CCl4 (80 mg/kg), the mice were pretreated with garlic oil by gavage in preventive group 1 (30 days, once daily), preventive group 2 (5 days, once daily), preventive group 3 (ahead of 2 h, once), preventive group 4 (immediately, once) or the vehicle (corn oil, 10 ml/kg) in solvent control group. In therapeutic groups, the mice were gavaged garlic oil 2 h (once, in therapeutic 1) or for 5 days (once daily, in therapeutic 2) after administration CCl. After 24 h of the last administration, blood was collected and centrifuged at 2500 r/min at 4 degrees C for 10 min, and serum was removed to measure ALT and AST activities. The liver was dissected, weighed to calculate the liver coefficient (relative liver weight). At the same time, the liver samples were studied by histological examinations. Compared with negative group, the liver coefficient and the activities of ALT and AST in serum of model group were increased remarkably (P < 0.01). Compared with CCl model group, the liver coefficient and the activities of ALT and AST in serum were decreased significantly (P < 0.01) by garlic oil dose-dependently in each preventive group. Simultaneously, histological assessment showed that garlic oil effectively alleviated hepatocyte injuries induced by CCl4. Comparing the preventive effects of garlic oil in every group, it was better in preventive group 3 than others. However, all indexes and histological examinations in therapeutic group 1 did not show the difference with those of CCl4 model group. In therapeutic group 2, all indexes recovered after 5 d of CCl4 administration. Garlic oil can prevent acute liver injury induced by CCl4 and the effect is better in ahead of 2 h group than others.

  9. Effects of experimental Trypanosoma evansi infection on pregnancy in Yankasa ewes.

    PubMed

    Adeyeye, A A; Ate, I U; Lawal, A I; Adamu, S

    2016-03-15

    Twenty pregnant Yankasa ewes were assigned to three groups to determine the effect of Trypanosoma evansi infection on pregnancy. Groups A and B comprising seven ewes each were infected with approximately 1.0 × 10(6) cells of T evansi per ewe through venepuncture at the second and third trimesters of pregnancy, respectively. Group C comprising six ewes served as uninfected control. There was slight pyrexia in the infected groups (groups A and B) but was absent in group C. The mean body weight, glucose concentration, and packed cell volume of ewes in group A were not significantly different from those in group C throughout the study. There was also no significant difference in mean glucose concentration between groups B and C. However, in group B, mean body weight was significantly (P < 0.05) lower compared to group C at week 2 and from week 4 post infection (pi) till the end of the study; the packed cell volume also significantly (P < 0.05) decreased but at weeks 4 and 6 pi. The mean plasma protein of ewes in group A was significantly (P < 0.05) increased compared to those of group C at weeks 7, 11 pi and thereafter till the end of the study. On the contrary, the plasma protein of ewes in group B decreased significantly (P < 0.05) compared to those in group C at weeks 2 and 6 pi. There were no reproductive losses throughout the study. This was characterized by insignificant differences in the gestation length between ewes in the infected groups (groups A and B) compared with those in group C. However, there were significant (P < 0.05) decreases in lamb birth weights of ewes in group B compared with ewes in groups A and C. Mice inoculation with blood from infected ewes postpartum was parasitemic 18 to 25 days pi, for ewes in group B, whereas none of the mice in groups A and C were parasitemic. Lambs born from the infected groups (groups A and B) were also aparasitemic for 40 days postpartum. It was therefore concluded that the T evansi isolate used caused mild trypanosomosis when infected at third trimester, whereas ewes infected at second trimester were resistant. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  10. [The effect of bacteria reaction time on corrosion properties of Ni-Cr alloys pretreated with different proteins].

    PubMed

    Qi, Han-quan; Zhang, Song-mei; Qian, Chao; Yuan-Li, Zheng

    2015-12-01

    To evaluate the corrosion properties of absorbed protein on the surface of NiCr alloys, and provide experimental base for corrosion resistance of dental casting alloys. NiCr alloy specimens were divided into 3 groups: one group was exposed to the artificial saliva(control group), and the other 2 groups were exposed to the artificial saliva with 1% bovine serum albumin(BSA), or 0.22% lysozyme(LSZ). Group of BSA and group of LSZ were the experimental group. Specimens in 3 groups were cultured in solution of Streptococcus mutans for 12 h, 24 h, 36 h and 48h, and investigated with electrochemical impedance spectroscopy measurement(EIS) and potentiodynamic polarization measurement(POT) to determine the corrosion resistance of the alloys. The data was analyzed with SPSS 17.0 software package. The results indicated that the corrosion resistance of both BSA group and LSZ group were higher than that of the control group (P<0.05) and LSZ group was superior to BSA group cultured in the solution of Streptococcus mutans for 12 h. When cultured for 24 h, the corrosion resistance of BSA group and LSZ group had no significant difference (P>0.05), but was still higher than that of the control group. After 36 h culture time, the control group and the BSA group had no statistical difference in corrosion resistance （P>0.05), while the LSZ group had the poorest corrosion resistance. When the culture time extended to 48 h, the control group had a better corrosion resistance compared with the BAS group and the LSZ group(P<0.05), but BSA group had displayed lower corrosion properties than LSZ group. The potentiodynamic polarization curve and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy had similar results. The adhesion of BSA and LSZ on the surface of the NiCr alloys in the early time could effectively inhibit the corrosive effect of Streptococcus mutans. The LSZ had better effect than BSA. With the continuing role of bacteria and the consumption of the absorb protein, the corrosion resistance of NiCr alloys toward Streptococcus mutans becomes lower than the alloys without absorb protein, which demonstrated that the adhesion of protein would change the surface structure of NiCr alloys and BSA had a greater effect.

  11. Group relationships in early and late sessions and improvement in interpersonal problems.

    PubMed

    Lo Coco, Gianluca; Gullo, Salvatore; Di Fratello, Carla; Giordano, Cecilia; Kivlighan, Dennis M

    2016-07-01

    Groups are more effective when positive bonds are established and interpersonal conflicts resolved in early sessions and work is accomplished in later sessions. Previous research has provided mixed support for this group development model. We performed a test of this theoretical perspective using group members' (actors) and aggregated group members' (partners) perceptions of positive bonding, positive working, and negative group relationships measured early and late in interpersonal growth groups. Participants were 325 Italian graduate students randomly (within semester) assigned to 1 of 16 interpersonal growth groups. Groups met for 9 weeks with experienced psychologists using Yalom and Leszcz's (2005) interpersonal process model. Outcome was assessed pre- and posttreatment using the Inventory of Interpersonal Problems, and group relationships were measured at Sessions 3 and 6 using the Group Questionnaire. As hypothesized, early measures of positive bonding and late measures of positive working, for both actors and partners, were positively related to improved interpersonal problems. Also as hypothesized, late measures of positive bonding and early measures of positive working, for both actors and partners, were negatively related to improved interpersonal problems. We also found that early actor and partner positive bonding and negative relationships interacted to predict changes in interpersonal problems. The findings are consistent with group development theory and suggest that group therapists focus on group-as-a-whole positive bonding relationships in early group sessions and on group-as-a-whole positive working relationships in later group sessions. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved).

  12. Magnesium sulfate accelerates the onset of low-dose rocuronium in patients undergoing laryngeal microsurgery.

    PubMed

    Choi, Eun-Su; Jeong, Woo-Jin; Ahn, Soon-Hyun; Oh, Ah-Young; Jeon, Young-Tae; Do, Sang-Hwan

    2017-02-01

    We evaluated the effect of magnesium sulfate-an enhancer of neuromuscular blockade-on onset and duration of low dose of rocuronium, and on operating conditions during laryngeal microsurgery. Randomized, prospective, double-blinded study. Eighty-four patients scheduled for elective laryngeal microsurgery. Patients were randomly allocated to receive different doses of rocuronium: 0.6 mg/kg (group C, n=28), 0.45 mg/kg (group LR, n=28), or 0.45 mg/kg plus magnesium sulfate 30 mg/kg (group LM, n=28). We measured the onset time and duration of action of rocuronium, and evaluated the surgeon's satisfaction with the operating conditions. Group LR showed significantly delayed onset time (group C: 87±22 seconds, group LR: 127±47 seconds, and group LM: 89±32 seconds; P=.001) and maximal suppression than did other groups (group C: 102±30 seconds, group LR: 155±66 seconds, and group LM: 105±36 seconds; P=.002). Duration of action of rocuronium was significantly longer in group C than in other groups (group C: 39±7 minutes, group LR: 28±8 minutes, group LRM: 31±8 minutes; P<.001). Laryngoscope placement score (P=.002), surgeon's satisfaction (P=.005), and sore throat (P=.035) were significantly worse in group LR. Magnesium sulfate 30 mg/kg accelerated the onset and improved operating conditions of low-dose rocuronium without prolongation of action. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  13. Any of them will do: In-group identification, out-group entitativity, and gang membership as predictors of group-based retribution.

    PubMed

    Vasquez, Eduardo A; Wenborne, Lisa; Peers, Madeline; Alleyne, Emma; Ellis, Kirsty

    2015-05-01

    In non-gang populations, the degree of identification with an in-group and perceptions of out-group entitativity, the perception of an out-group as bonded or unified, are important contributors to group-based aggression or vicarious retribution. The link between these factors and group-based aggression, however, has not been examined in the context of street gangs. The current study assessed the relationship among in-group identification, perceptions of out-group entitativity, and the willingness to retaliate against members of rival groups who did not themselves attack the in-group among juvenile gang and non-gang members in London. Our results showed the predicted membership (gang/non-gang) × in-group identification × entitativity interaction. Decomposition of the three-way interaction by membership revealed a significant identification × entitativity interaction for gang, but not for non-gang members. More specifically, gang members who identify more strongly with their gang and perceived a rival group as high on entitativity were more willing to retaliate against any of them. In addition, entitativity was a significant predictor of group-based aggression after controlling for gender, in-group identification, and gang membership. Our results are consistent with socio-psychological theories of group-based aggression and support the proposal that such theories are applicable for understanding gang-related violence. Aggr. Behav. 41:242-252, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  14. Hydroxyl Ion Diffusion through Radicular Dentine When Calcium Hydroxide Is Used under Different Conditions

    PubMed Central

    Cai, Michael; Castro Salgado, Jacqueline

    2018-01-01

    Calcium hydroxide’s anti-bacterial action relies on high pH. The aim here was to investigate hydroxyl ion diffusion through dentine under different conditions. Teeth were divided into control (n = 4) and four experimental groups (n = 10): Group 1—no medicament; Group 2—Calmix; Group 3—Calmix/Ledermix; Group 4—Calasept Plus/Ledermix; Group 5—Pulpdent/smear layer. Deep (inner dentine) and shallow (outer dentine) cavities were cut into each root. pH was measured in these cavities for 12 weeks. The inner and outer dentine pH in Group 2 was significantly higher than all groups. Inner dentine pH in Group 3 was slightly higher than that in Group 4 initially but subsequently comparable. After Day 2, Group 5 had significantly lower pH than Groups 3 and 4. The outer dentine pH in Group 3 started higher than that in Groups 4 and 5, but by Day 28 the difference was insignificant. The time for the inner dentine to reach maximum pH was one week for Group 2 and four weeks for Groups 3 and 4. The time for the outer dentine to reach maximum pH was eight weeks for all experimental groups. Mixing different Ca(OH)2 formulations with Ledermix gave similar hydroxyl ion release but pH and total diffusion was lower than Ca(OH)2 alone. The smear layer inhibited diffusion. PMID:29342093

  15. "From resistance to challenge": child health service nurses experiences of how a course in group leadership affected their management of parental groups.

    PubMed

    Lefèvre, Åsa; Lundqvist, Pia; Drevenhorn, Eva; Hallström, Inger

    2017-01-01

    All parents in Sweden are invited to child health service (CHS) parental groups, however only 49% of the families participate. The way the parental groups are managed has been shown to be of importance for how parents experience the support and CHS nurses describe feeling insecure when running the groups. Lack of facilitation, structure and leadership might jeopardise the potential benefit of such support groups. This study describes CHS nurses' experiences of how a course in group leadership affected the way they ran their parental groups. A course in group leadership given to 56 CHS nurses was evaluated in focus group interviews 5-8 months after the course. The nurses felt strengthened in their group leader role and changed their leadership methods. The management of parental groups was after the course perceived as an important work task and the nurses included time for planning, preparation and evaluation, which they felt improved their parental groups. Parental participation in the activities in the group had become a key issue and they used their new exercises and tools to increase this. They expressed feeling more confident and relaxed in their role as group leaders and felt that they could adapt their leadership to the needs of the parents. Specific training might strengthen the CHS nurses in their group leader role and give them new motivation to fulfil their work with parental groups.  Clinical Trials.gov ID: NCT02494128.

  16. [Comparison of bulbar conjunctival microcirculation in rabbits of five subtypes of blood stasis syndrome].

    PubMed

    Hu, Wen-Juan; Zhang, Bing-Tao; Wu, Rui

    2013-09-01

    To observe changes of bulbar conjunctival microcirculation in rabbits of five kinds subtypes of blood stasis syndrome (BSS), and to analyze their different properties. Totally 60 Japanese big-ear rabbits were randomly divided into six groups, i.e., qi deficiency blood stasis group, qi stagnation blood stasis group, cold coagulation blood stasis group, heat toxin blood stasis group, external injury blood stasis group, and the normal control group, 10 in each group. Changes of rabbit bulbar conjunctiva microcirculation were observed before and after modeling. Compared with the normal control group, the total integral of bulbar conjunctiva microcirculation obviously increased in the 5 BSS groups (P < 0.05). There was no statistical difference among the 5 BSS groups (P > 0.05). But there was statistical difference in any concrete integral among the 5 BSS groups (P < 0.05). Thickening blood vessels and errhysis of vascular walls were dominant in the heat toxin blood stasis group. Ischemia, partial cystic dilatation, vascular engorgement and twist were dominant in the qi deficiency blood stasis group. Partial vascular buckling, aneurysmal changes, flow velocity slowed down were dominant in the qi stagnation blood stasis group. Vascular buckling, hyperemia, vascular engorgement, blood flow slowed down were dominant in the external injury blood stasis group. Vascular buckling, ischemia, dark color were dominant in the cold coagulation blood stasis group. Changes of bulbar conjunctival microcirculation were different in 5 kinds of BSS types, which could reflect their various features.

  17. Distribution of ABO and Rh Blood Groups in Patients With Keratoconus: A Case-Control Study.

    PubMed

    Naderan, Mohammad; Rajabi, Mohammad Taher; Shoar, Saeed; Kamaleddin, Mohammad Amin; Naderan, Morteza; Rezagholizadeh, Farzaneh; Zolfaghari, Masoome; Pahlevani, Rozhin

    2015-07-01

    Association of keratoconus (KC) with genetic predisposition and environmental factors has been well documented. However, no single study has investigated the possible relationship between ABO and Rh blood groups and KC. A case-control study was designed in a university hospital enrolling 214 patients with KC in the case group and equal number of age- and sex-matched healthy subjects in the control group. Primary characteristics, ABO blood group, and Rh factors were compared between the two groups. Topographic findings of KC eyes and the severity of the diseases were investigated according to the distribution of the blood groups. Blood group O and Rh(+) phenotype were most frequent in both groups. There was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of ABO blood groups or Rh factors. Mean keratometery (K), central corneal thickness, thinnest corneal thickness, flat K, steep K, sphere and cylinder, spherical equivalent, and uncorrected visual acuity were all similar between ABO blood groups and Rh(+) and Rh(-) groups. However, the best spectacle-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) had the highest value in AB blood group (0.35 ± 0.22 logMAR, P=0.005). Moreover, the blood group AB revealed the highest frequency for grade 3 KC, followed by grades 1, 2, and 4 (P=0.003). We observed no significant excess of any particular blood group among KC cases compared with healthy subjects. Except BCVA, none of the keratometric or topographic findings was significantly different between blood groups.

  18. Method of manufacturing semiconductor having group II-group VI compounds doped with nitrogen

    DOEpatents

    Compaan, Alvin D.; Price, Kent J.; Ma, Xianda; Makhratchev, Konstantin

    2005-02-08

    A method of making a semiconductor comprises depositing a group II-group VI compound onto a substrate in the presence of nitrogen using sputtering to produce a nitrogen-doped semiconductor. This method can be used for making a photovoltaic cell using sputtering to apply a back contact layer of group II-group VI compound to a substrate in the presence of nitrogen, the back coating layer being doped with nitrogen. A semiconductor comprising a group II-group VI compound doped with nitrogen, and a photovoltaic cell comprising a substrate on which is deposited a layer of a group II-group VI compound doped with nitrogen, are also included.

  19. Transactive memory in organizational groups: the effects of content, consensus, specialization, and accuracy on group performance.

    PubMed

    Austin, John R

    2003-10-01

    Previous research on transactive memory has found a positive relationship between transactive memory system development and group performance in single project laboratory and ad hoc groups. Closely related research on shared mental models and expertise recognition supports these findings. In this study, the author examined the relationship between transactive memory systems and performance in mature, continuing groups. A group's transactive memory system, measured as a combination of knowledge stock, knowledge specialization, transactive memory consensus, and transactive memory accuracy, is positively related to group goal performance, external group evaluations, and internal group evaluations. The positive relationship with group performance was found to hold for both task and external relationship transactive memory systems.

  20. Exploring asynchronous brainstorming in large groups: a field comparison of serial and parallel subgroups.

    PubMed

    de Vreede, Gert-Jan; Briggs, Robert O; Reiter-Palmon, Roni

    2010-04-01

    The aim of this study was to compare the results of two different modes of using multiple groups (instead of one large group) to identify problems and develop solutions. Many of the complex problems facing organizations today require the use of very large groups or collaborations of groups from multiple organizations. There are many logistical problems associated with the use of such large groups, including the ability to bring everyone together at the same time and location. A field study involved two different organizations and compared productivity and satisfaction of group. The approaches included (a) multiple small groups, each completing the entire process from start to end and combining the results at the end (parallel mode); and (b) multiple subgroups, each building on the work provided by previous subgroups (serial mode). Groups using the serial mode produced more elaborations compared with parallel groups, whereas parallel groups produced more unique ideas compared with serial groups. No significant differences were found related to satisfaction with process and outcomes between the two modes. Preferred mode depends on the type of task facing the group. Parallel groups are more suited for tasks for which a variety of new ideas are needed, whereas serial groups are best suited when elaboration and in-depth thinking on the solution are required. Results of this research can guide the development of facilitated sessions of large groups or "teams of teams."

  1. Group cohesion and between session homework activities predict self-reported cognitive-behavioral skill use amongst participants of SMART Recovery groups.

    PubMed

    Kelly, Peter J; Deane, Frank P; Baker, Amanda L

    2015-04-01

    SMART Recovery groups are cognitive-behaviorally oriented mutual support groups for individuals with addictions. The aim of the study was to assess the extent to which the quality of group facilitation, group cohesion and the use of between session homework activities contribute to self-rated use of cognitive-behavioral skills amongst group participants. Participants attending SMART Recovery groups in Australia completed a cross sectional survey (N=124). The survey included measures of cognitive and behavioral skill utilization, group cohesion, quality of group facilitation and a rating of how frequently participants leave group meetings with an achievable between session homework plan. On average, participants had been attending SMART Recovery meetings for 9 months. Participants were most likely to attend SMART Recovery for problematic alcohol use. Regression analyses indicated that group cohesion significantly predicted use of cognitive restructuring, but that only provision of homework at the end of each group session predicted self-reported behavioral activation. Both group cohesion and leaving a group with an achievable homework plan predicted participant use of cognitive behavioral skills. The concrete actions associated with homework activities may facilitate behavioral activation. There is a need for longitudinal research to examine the relationship between the utilization of cognitive and behavioral skills and participant outcomes (e.g. substance use, mental health) for people attending SMART Recovery groups. Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier Inc.

  2. Impact of support groups on well-being of older women.

    PubMed

    Segrist, Kathleen A

    2008-01-01

    The goal of this study was to determine whether differences in incidence of depression and level of well-being are manifested between older women, aged 60 and older, who attend either (a) a peer-run support group, (b) a staff-run support group, or (c) a comparison group (i.e., who do not attend a support group). Thirty-six women participating in peer-run and staff-run support groups and 9 women receiving nongroup support were administered the Geriatric Depression Scale and the Philadelphia Geriatric Center Morale Scale. Separate analyses of variance were employed on each scale to determine the significance of differences in scores according to facilitator type (i.e., peer-run vs. staff-run vs. comparison group). Analysis of scores on the Geriatric Depression Scale indicated significant differences between women in the peer-run groups and women in the comparison group, but no significant differences between women in the peer-run groups and women in the staff-run groups or between women in the staff-run groups and women in the comparison group. Analysis of scores on the Philadelphia Geriatric Center Morale Scale did not indicate any significant differences between women based on facilitator type. Results of this study have implications for those who run face-to-face support groups for older adults, for those who train peer group facilitators, and for community agencies that desire to initiate a support group system for their clientele.

  3. Comparison of impact of four surgical methods on surgical outcomes in endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy.

    PubMed

    Roh, Hyun Cheol; Baek, Sehyun; Lee, Hwa; Chang, Minwook

    2016-06-01

    To evaluate differences in the surgical outcomes of endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) according to four different surgical methods. This retrospective study included 222 patients who underwent endoscopic DCR from 2011 to 2013. All patients were assigned to one of four groups according to instruments for incision of nasal mucosa and the formation of mucosal flap: group 1, a sickle knife with mucosal flap; group 2, a sickle knife without mucosal flap; group 3, electrocautery with mucosal flap; and group 4, electrocautery without mucosal flap. The follow up period was at least 6 months. There were 33 eyes in group 1, 44 eyes in group 2, 49 eyes in group 3, and 97 eyes in group 4. There were no significant differences in success rate between groups (P = 0.878). Wound healing time was significantly different between groups (P < 0.001). In post hoc analysis, wound healing time was significantly shorter in group 1 and group 2 than in group 3 and group 4. The vertical ostium size and postsurgical complication were not significantly different between groups. The use of cold instruments such as sickle knife may be more helpful and effective for shortening wound healing time rather than making mucosal flaps in endoscopic DCR. Copyright © 2016 European Association for Cranio-Maxillo-Facial Surgery. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  4. The pathological features of idiopathic interstitial pneumonia-associated pulmonary adenocarcinomas.

    PubMed

    Kojima, Yoko; Okudela, Koji; Matsumura, Mai; Omori, Takahiro; Baba, Tomohisa; Sekine, Akimasa; Woo, Tetsukan; Umeda, Shigeaki; Takemura, Tamiko; Mitsui, Hideaki; Suzuki, Takehisa; Tateishi, Yoko; Iwasawa, Tae; Arai, Hiromasa; Tajiri, Michihiko; Ogura, Takashi; Kameda, Yoichi; Masuda, Munetaka; Ohashi, Kenich

    2017-03-01

    To investigate the pathological features of idiopathic interstitial pneumonia (IIP)-associated pulmonary adenocarcinoma. Surgically resected adenocarcinomas associated with IIP (the IIP group) and adenocarcinomas without IIP (the non-IIP group) were subjected to analysis. Adenocarcinomas in the IIP group were subdivided into two groups: one group included tumours connected to bronchiolar metaplasia in honeycomb lesions (the H-IIP group), and the other included tumours unrelated to honeycomb lesions (the NH-IIP group). Histomorphological appearance and immunohistochemical expression were compared among the H-IIP group, the NH-IIP group, and the non-IIP group. Most of the tumour cells in the H-IIP group had a tall, columnar shape that showed similar features to proximal bronchial epithelium, whereas tumour cells in the NH-IIP group and the non-IIP group had a club-like shape that showed similar features to respiratory bronchiolar/alveolar epithelium. Adenocarcinomas in the H-IIP group tended to be negative for thyroid transcription factor-1 (TTF-1) and positive for hepatocyte nuclear factor-4α (HNF-4α). The frequency of EGFR mutations was significantly lower in adenocarcinomas in the H-IIP group, although the frequencies of KRAS and ALK mutations did not differ among the three groups. Idiopathic interstitial pneumonia-associated pulmonary adenocarcinomas, especially those arising from honeycomb lesions, have distinct pathological features. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  5. Effect of vernal keratoconjunctivitis on vitreous depth in patients with keratoconus.

    PubMed

    Cingü, Abdullah Kürşat; Kaya, Savaş; Çınar, Yasin; Şahin, Muhammed; Türkçü, Fatih Mehmet; Yüksel, Harun; Murat, Mehmet; Çaça, İhsan

    2015-05-01

    The aim of this study was to comparatively evaluate the vitreous depth (VD) of keratoconic eyes in patients with or without vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC). Eighty eyes of 80 consecutive keratoconus (KC) patients and 40 emmetropic control subjects were enrolled. KC patients were divided into two groups according to accompanying VKC (VKC-KC group and KC group). Mean outcome measures were best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), spherical equivalent (SE), mean keratometry (Km), intraocular pressure (IOP), and axial length (AL) and its components. The eyes with the highest Km were selected for statistical analysis for each participant. There were 50, 30, and 40 patients in the VKC-KC group, KC group, and control group respectively. The KC group and VKC-KC group were similar in BCVA, SE, Km, CCT, ACD, LT, and IOP (p>0.05). The mean ACD was significantly lower in the control group when compared with the KC group and VKC-KC group. The mean AL and VD were significantly higher in VKC-KC group than those of KC group and the control group, whereas similar in KC and control groups (p>0.05). In the current study we showed that VKC-associated KC patients have significantly longer AL and VD when compared with KC patients without VKC. Posterior segment elongation in VKC-KC group may be associated with the type IV collagen destruction due to chronic longstanding inflammation in VKC patients.

  6. [Intervention of coarse cereals on lipid metabolism in rats].

    PubMed

    Guo, Yanbo; Zhai, Chengkai; Wang, Yanli; Zhang, Qun; Ding, Zhoubo; Jin, Xin

    2010-03-01

    To observe the effect of coarse cereals on improving the disorder of lipid metabolism and the expression of PPARgamma mRNA in white adipose tissue in rats to investigate the mechanism of coarse cereals on lipid metabolism disorder. Forty four SPF rats were randomly divided into 4 groups: the negative control group was fed with normal diet and 3 experimental groups were fed with high-fat modeling diet for 6 weeks for model building. The 3 experimental groups, the coarse cereals group,rice-flour group and the hyperlipemia model group, were then fed with coarse cereals high-fat diet,rice-flour high-diet and high-fat modeling diet respectively for another 15 weeks. Compared with the hyperlipemia modeling group, serum TG, TC, IL-6 and TNF-alpha in the coarse cereals group were declined significantly (P < 0.05), serum HDL-C in coarse cereals group was higher than that in rice-flour group and hyperlipemia model group (P < 0.05), LPL, HL and TNF-alpha in coarse cereal group were close to the negative control group. Moreover, the expression of PPAR-gamma mRNA in white adipose tissue of the coarse cereals group was higher than other groups. The coarse cereals could activate PPARgamma and enhance the activity of key enzymes in lipids metabolism, so as to reduce the level of TG relieve inflammation and improve lipid dysmetabolism eventually.

  7. [Clinical research of minimal extracorporeal circulation in perioperative blood conservation of coronary artery bypass graft].

    PubMed

    Liu, Yan; Cui, Hu-jun; Tao, Liang; Chen, Xu-fa

    2011-04-01

    To analyze the clinical effect of minimal extracorporeal circulation (MECC) in blood conservation perioperatively coronary artery bypass graft (CABG). The data of 120 cases received simple CABG since August 2006 to October 2009 was analyzed retrospectively. All the patients were divided to three groups according to the mode of circulation support in-operation: MECC, conventional extracorporeal circulation (cECC) or off-pump, 40 cases in each group. Jostra MECC system with normal temperature was used in MECC group, and common membrane oxygenator with moderate hypo-temperature was used in cECC group. Collect the data of coagulation and the blood cytological examination perioperatively, the draining volume during the first 24 h after operation, and consumption of blood products perioperatively. Standard and logistic EuroSCORE were higher in MECC group than the others (P < 0.01). The operative time and the number of distal anastomosis of off-pump group were less than MECC and cECC groups (P < 0.05), while no difference between MECC group and cECC group. Intrinsic coagulation (activated partial thromboplastin time) were much more prolonged early postoperatively in cECC group, and higher than in MECC group and off-pump group at 2 h, 6 h and 12 h postoperatively (P < 0.05), but no difference in extrinsic coagulation (prothrombin time) among three group. Adjusted by hematocrit of the same sample, free hemoglobin level rose up during the ECC procedure and reached the maximum at the end of ECC in cECC group and MECC group, but the levels were more higher in cECC group than in MECC group (P < 0.05). The draining volume during the first 24 h after operation of cECC group was larger than MECC group and off-pump group (P < 0.05). Although the decreased platelet count perioperatively and more consumed of the blood products in cECC group, but no difference among the three groups. MECC could reduce the ruin to blood cell and interfere to coagulation function during the conventional ECC procedure, decrease the postoperative draining volume and requirement of blood products.

  8. A study of the protective effect and mechanism of ketamine on acute lung injury induced by mechanical ventilation.

    PubMed

    Wang, W-F; Liu, S; Xu, B

    2017-03-01

    To investigate the protective effects and mechanism of ketamine on acute lung injury induced by mechanical ventilation. 63 patients with acute lung injury caused by mechanical ventilation in our hospital between June 2014 and May 2015 were chosen and divided into three groups: group A, B, and C. Group A (20 cases) received conventional treatment. Group B (21 cases) was treated with propofol and group C (22 cases) with ketamine. The ventilator application time, the success rate of weaning, the mortality rate, inflammation index (IL-1, Caspase-1, and NF-κB), pulmonary function index and oxygen saturation were compared. The ventilator application time and the mortality rate of group B and group C were significantly (p < 0.05) lower than those of group A. The success rate of weaning of groups B and C was higher (p < 0.05) than that of group A. There was no difference between groups B and C. After intervention, the levels of PaO2 and SpO2 in the three groups increased, while the level of PaCO2decreased with better improvement in group B and group C than in group A (p < 0.05), groups B and C being similar (p > 0.05). After the intervention, the levels of FEV1, FEV1/FVC, FVC and PEER in the three groups increased, but more remarkably in group B and group C (p < 0.05), in which there was no difference. After the intervention, the levels of IL-1β, Caspase-1, and NF-κB in the three groups decreased with the levels of group C obviously lower (p < 0.05) than those of groups B and A, the highest. Both ketamine and propofol can improve the blood gas and pulmonary function index of patients with acute lung injury caused by mechanical ventilation. They shorten the application time of ventilator, improve the success rate of weaning and reduce the mortality rate which is probably related to the reduction of the degree of inflammatory reaction. Ketamine is more effective in reducing inflammatory factors including IL-1β, Caspase-1, and NF-κB than propofol.

  9. Effects of high-pressure oxygen therapy on brain tissue water content and AQP4 expression in rabbits with cerebral hemorrhage.

    PubMed

    Wu, Jing; Chen, Jiong; Guo, Hua; Peng, Fang

    2014-12-01

    To investigate the effects of different atmosphere absolutes (ATA) of high-pressure oxygen (HPO) on brain tissue water content and Aquaporin-4 (AQP4) expression in rabbits with cerebral hemorrhage. 180 New Zealand white rabbits were selected and randomly divided into normal group (n = 30), control group (n = 30) and cerebral hemorrhage group (n = 120), and cerebral hemorrhage group was divided into group A, B, C and D with 30 rabbits in each group. The groups received 1.0, 1.8, 2.0 and 2.2 ATA of HPO treatments, respectively. Ten rabbits in each group were killed at first, third and fifth day to detect the brain tissue water content and change of AQP4 expression. In cerebral hemorrhage group, brain tissue water content and AQP4 expression after model establishment were first increased, then decreased and reached the maximum on third day (p < 0.05). Brain tissue water content and AQP4 expression in control group and cerebral hemorrhage group were significantly higher than normal group at different time points (p < 0.05). In contrast, brain tissue water content and AQP4 expression in group C were significantly lower than in group A, group B, group D and control group (p < 0.05). In control group, AQP4-positive cells significantly increased after model establishment, which reached maximum on third day, and positive cells in group C were significantly less than in group A, group B and group D. We also found that AQP4 expression were positively correlated with brain tissue water content (r = 0.719, p < 0.05) demonstrated by significantly increased AQP4 expression along with increased brain tissue water content. In conclusion, HPO can decrease AQP4 expression in brain tissue of rabbits with cerebral hemorrhage to suppress the progression of brain edema and promote repairing of injured tissue. 2.0 ATA HPO exerts best effects, which provides an experimental basis for ATA selection of HPO in treating cerebral hemorrhage.

  10. Caspase-3 inhibitor prevents the apoptosis of brain tissue in rats with acute cerebral infarction.

    PubMed

    Sun, Yuhua; Xu, Yuming; Geng, Lijiao

    2015-07-01

    The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of the caspase-3 inhibitor z-DEVD-fmk on the apoptosis of the brain tissues of rats with acute cerebral infarction. Middle cerebral artery occlusion was used to establish a rat model of infarction, and the rats were randomly divided into a sham group (n=15), model group (n=15) and treatment group (n=15). z-DEVD-fmk (2.5 µg/kg) was injected into the intracranial artery of rats in the treatment group, while the same volume of phosphate-buffered saline solution was administered to the rats of the sham and model groups. After 48 h, all rats were sacrificed and their brain tissues were removed. The caspase-3 mRNA level, protein level and activity, brain cell apoptosis index and infarction scope of the three groups were analyzed. Neurological impairment was also assessed. At 48 h after model establishment, the caspase-3 mRNA and protein levels in the brain tissues of the model group were significantly higher than those of the sham group, and those in the treatment group were significantly lower than those in the model group (P<0.05); however, they remained significantly higher than those in the sham group. Caspase-3 activity in the model group was significantly higher than that in the sham group, and treatment with the caspase-3 inhibitor significantly reduced caspase-3 activity compared with that in the model group (P<0.05). The apoptosis index and infarction scope in the model and treatment groups were significantly increased compared with those in the sham group, and were significantly lower in the treatment group than in the model group (P<0.05). The neurological impairment of rats in the model and treatment groups was increased significantly compared with that in the sham group, and the treatment group exhibited a significantly lower level of neurological impairment than the model group (P<0.05). In conclusion, the caspase-3 inhibitor z-DEVD-fmk effectively inhibited apoptosis and delayed the necrosis of brain tissue cells in rats with acute cerebral infarction, and had certain protective effects on brain tissue.

  11. Molecular phylogeny of the Drosophila virilis section (Diptera: Drosophilidae) based on mitochondrial and nuclear sequences.

    PubMed

    Wang, Bao-cheng; Park, Jecheol; Watabe, Hide-aki; Gao, Jian-jun; Xiangyu, Jing-gong; Aotsuka, Tadashi; Chen, Hong-wei; Zhang, Ya-ping

    2006-08-01

    Regardless of the well-documented virilis species group, most groups of the Drosophila virilis section have not been completely studied at molecular level since it was suggested. Therefore, phylogenetic relationships among and within species groups of the virilis section are generally unknown. In present paper, the complete mitochondrial ND2 gene and fragment of COI gene in combination with a nuclear gene, Adh coding region, were used to derive the most extensive molecular phylogeny to date for the Drosophila virilis section. A total of 111 individuals covering 61 species were sampled in this study. Novel phylogenetic findings included (1) support for the paraphyly of the melanica and robusta species group and at least two subgroups of the robusta species group, the lacertosa and okadai subgroups, were distinguished as paraphyletic taxa. In addition, (2) present results revealed the sister relationship between D. moriwakii and the robusta subgroup, conflicting with current taxonomy regarding D. moriwakii, which was shifted from the robusta species group to the melanica group. (3) In contrast to the robusta and melanica species groups, monophyly of the polychaeta species group, the angor group and the virilis group was confirmed, respectively. However, the monophyletic quadrisetata species group was resolved with uncertainty. (4) Our analyses of combined data set suggested close relationship between the quadrisetata species group and the unpublished clefta group, and the okadai subgroup is sister to the clade comprising of the quadrisetata and clefta species groups. Within the virilis section, D. fluvialis and three tropical species groups, the polychaeta group, the angor group and the repleta group, are found to branch off earlier than other ingroup taxa. This suggests that the virilis section might have originated in the Old World tropics. Besides, the derived status of the close affinities of the quadrisetata group, the clefta group, and the melanica and robusta groups is probably the result of their adaptation to forests between subtropical and cool-temperate climate. Based on the consideration of the phylogenetic placement of the species of the virilis section, we suggest that at least five independent migrations occurred from the Old World to the New World.

  12. [Effects and related mechanism of flavone from Galium verum L on peroxide induced oxidative injury in human umbilical vein endothelial cells].

    PubMed

    Dong, J M; Ma, Y L; Zhang, Z Y; Li, R; Zhu, Y L; Ma, L

    2016-07-24

    To investigate the effects of flavone from Galium verum L (FGVL) on hydrogen peroxide induced oxidative injury in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC), and explore related mechanisms. HUVEC were divided into five groups: control group (1640 complete medium), injured group (HUVEC treated with 100 μmol/L hydrogen peroxide for 4 h), FGVL group (HUVEC treated with 12.5 mg/L FGVL (group F1), 25.0 mg/L (group F2), 50.0 mg/L (group F3) for 24 h before hydrogen peroxide). The nitric oxide content was measured by nitric acid reductase method. The 6-keto-Prostacyclin-F1α (6-keto-PGF1α), thromboxane B2 (TXB2), interleukin(IL)-6 and IL-22 were determined by ELISA.mRNA expression of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K), protein kinase B (Akt) and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) was detected by RT-PCR.Protein expression of p-Akt (ser(473)) and p-eNOS (ser(1177)) was determined by Western blot.Cell apoptosis was observed with fluorescence microscope after Hoechst33258 staining. (1) The contents of nitric oxide were significantly lower in the injured group than in the control group ((34.11±1.78) μmol/L vs. (74.81±2.93) μmol/L, P<0.05), which was significantly increased in group F2 ((41.86±2.32) μmol/L) and group F3 ((62.79±1.16) μmol/L) compared with injured group (both P<0.05). (2)The secretion level of 6-keto-PGF1α was significantly lower in the injured group ((44.84±3.87) ng/L) than in the control group ((82.38±3.98) ng/L, P<0.05), which was significantly increased in group F1 ((52.76±1.78) ng/L), FGVL 2 group which was(56.58±1.44) ng/L and FGVL 3 group which was(67.78±2.02) ng/L than that of injured group(all P<0.05). The secretion level of TXB2 was significantly higher in the injured group((43.37±3.96) ng/L) than in the control group ((25.56±1.75) ng/L, P<0.05), which was significantly reduced group F2 group ((32.41±1.68) ng/L) and group F3 ((28.23±2.15) ng/L) than that of injured group(both P<0.05). (3) The contents of IL-6 and IL-22 were significantly higher in the injured group ((539.74±11.63) ng/L) and ((23.70±3.05) ng/L, respectively) than in the control group ((288.67±19.52) ng/L) and ((23.70±3.05) ng/L, respectively, both P<0.05). The contents of IL-6 were significantly lower in group F1, F2 and F3 compared to that of injured group(all P<0.05). The contents of IL-22 were significantly lower in group F2 and F3 than that of injured group(both P<0.05). (4)The relative levels of PI3K mRNA and eNOS mRNA in injured group (0.68±0.09 and 0.22±0.03, respectively) were significantly lower compared to control group(0.81±0.12 and 0.63±0.11, respectively, both P<0.05), PI3K mRNA in group F2 (0.76±0.03) and group F3 (PI3K mRNA 0.83±0.06) as well as eNOS mRNA in group F1 (0.37±0.08), F2 (0.53±0.04) and F3 (0.56±0.09) than those of injured group(all P<0.05). The mRNA expression of Akt was similar among groups (P>0.05). (5) The relative levels of p-Akt (ser(473)) and p-eNOS (ser(1177)) in injured group (0.48±0.05 and 0.23±0.03, respectively) were significantly lower compared to control group (0.71±0.12 and 0.66±0.05, respectively, both P<0.05), which was up-regulated in group F1, F2 and F3 groups compared to injured group(all P<0.05). (6) The cell apoptosis rate in injured groups was significantly higher compared to control group which ((63.67±11.37)% vs. (4.67±1.15)%, P<0.05) which was significantly reduced in group F1((43.33±4.16)%), F2((18.33±4.93)%) and F3((15.67±2.08)%) compared to injured group(all P<0.05). The FGVL can reduce hydrogen peroxide induced oxidative injury in HUVEC by increasing the level of nitric oxide through PI3K/Akt/eNOS pathway.

  13. Small Group Research

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    McGrath, Joseph E.

    1978-01-01

    Summarizes research on small group processes by giving a comprehensive account of the types of variables primarily studied in the laboratory. These include group structure, group composition, group size, and group relations. Considers effects of power, leadership, conformity to social norms, and role relationships. (Author/AV)

  14. Experimental Copper Deficiency, Chromium Deficiency and Additional Molybdenum Supplementation in Goats – Pathological Findings

    PubMed Central

    Aupperle, H; Schoon, HA; Frank, A

    2001-01-01

    Secondary copper (Cu) deficiency, chromium (Cr) deficiency and molybdenosis (Mo) has been suggested to cause the "mysterious" moose disease in the southwest of Sweden. The present experiment was performed on goats to investigate the clinical, chemical, and pathological alterations after 20 months feeding of a semi-synthetic diet deficient in Cu and Cr. Four groups were included in the study: control group (n = 4), Cu-deficient group (group 1, n = 4), Cr-deficient group (group 2, n = 2) and Cu+Cr-deficient group (group 3, n = 3). Group 3 was additionally supplemented with tetrathiomolybdate during the last 2 months of the experiment. Main histopathological findings in groups 1 and 3 were the lesions in the liver, characterised by a severe active fibrosis, bile duct proliferation, haemosiderosis and mild necroses. Additionally, degenerative alterations of the exocrine pancreas were prominent in groups 1 and 3. Lesions in group 3 were more pronounced than in group 1. In group 3, the skin showed an atrophic dermatosis, while in group 2 a crusty dermatitis caused by Candida spp. was observed. This study shows that liver, pancreas and skin are mainly affected by a long term deficiency of copper and the findings are complicated by molybdenum application while chromium deficiency produced no histomorphological effects in our study. PMID:11887391

  15. Continuous Positive Airway Pressure Device Time to Procurement in a Disadvantaged Population.

    PubMed

    DelRosso, Lourdes M; Hoque, Romy; Chesson, Andrew L

    2015-01-01

    Introduction. The management of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in patients who cannot afford a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) device is challenging. In this study we compare time to CPAP procurement in three groups of patients diagnosed with OSA: uninsured subsidized by a humanitarian grant (Group 1), uninsured unsubsidized (Group 2), and those with Medicare or Medicaid (Group 3). We evaluate follow-up and adherence in Group 1. We hypothesize that additional factors, rather than just the ability to obtain CPAP, may uniquely affect follow-up and adherence in uninsured patients. Methods. 30 patients were in Groups 1 and 2, respectively. 12 patients were in Group 3. Time of CPAP procurement from OSA diagnosis to CPAP initiation was assessed in all groups. CPAP adherence data was collected for Group 1 patients at 1, 3, 6, and 9 months. Results. There were no significant differences between groups in gender, age, body mass index, or apnea hypopnea index. The mean time to procurement in Group 1 was shorter compared to Group 2 but not significant. Compared to both Group 1 and Group 2, Group 3 patients had significantly shorter times to device procurement. Conclusion. Time to procurement of CPAP was significantly shorter in those with Medicaid/Medicare insurance compared to the uninsured.

  16. Parental acceptance of pediatric behavior management techniques: a comparative study.

    PubMed

    Elango, I; Baweja, D K; Shivaprakash, P K

    2012-01-01

    To evaluate and compare the attitude toward behavior techniques among parents of healthy and special children in Indian subpopulation. Parents of healthy (Group A) and special children (Group B) watched videotape vignette of 10 behavior management techniques (BMTs) in groups and rated them using Visual Analog Scale (VAS). Group B parents were subgrouped as: Group B 1 (34 parents of medically compromised children), Group B 2 (34 parents of physically compromised children), and Group B 3 (34 parents of children with neuropathological disorders). Both Group A and Group B subjects judged all techniques as "acceptable." Group B parents were less accepting to techniques than Group A parents, except live modeling. Contingent escape and live modeling were the first ranked techniques in Group A and Group B parents, respectively. Voice control (VC) and hand-over-mouth exercise (HOM) were the least accepted techniques in both groups. Parents with low income and less education were more receptive to the techniques studied. A total of 25.49% of parents in each group did not consent to the use of HOM. Factors such as having a disabled child, low income, and less education influenced parental acceptability. HOM should be used with great caution and clinicians should approach the issue of informed consent on an individual basis.

  17. Effects of two antioxidants; α-lipoic acid and fisetin against diabetic cataract in mice.

    PubMed

    Kan, Emrah; Kiliçkan, Elif; Ayar, Ahmet; Çolak, Ramis

    2015-02-01

    The purpose of this study was to determine whether α-lipoic acid and fisetin have protective effects against cataract in a streptozotocin-induced experimental cataract model. Twenty-eight male BALB/C mice were made diabetic by the intraperitoneal administration of streptozotocin (200 mg/kg). Three weeks after induction of diabetes, mice were divided randomly into 4 groups in which each group contained 7 mice; fisetin-treated group (group 1), α-lipoic acid-treated group (group 2), fisetin placebo group (group 3), α-lipoic acid placebo group (group 4). Fisetin and α-lipoic acid were administered intraperitoneally weekly for 5 weeks. Cataract development was assessed at the end of 8 weeks by slit lamp examination, and cataract formation was graded using a scale. All groups developed at least grade 1 cataract formation. In the fisetin-treated group, the cataract stages were significantly lower than in the placebo group (p = 0.02). In the α-lipoic acid-treated group, the cataract stages were lower than in the placebo group but it did not reach to a significant value. Both fisetin and α-lipoic acid had a protective effect on cataract development in a streptozotocin-induced experimental cataract model. The protective effect of fisetin appears as though more effective than α-lipoic acid.

  18. MtDNA and Y-chromosome variation in Kurdish groups.

    PubMed

    Nasidze, Ivan; Quinque, Dominique; Ozturk, Murat; Bendukidze, Nina; Stoneking, Mark

    2005-07-01

    In order to investigate the origins and relationships of Kurdish-speaking groups, mtDNA HV1 sequences, eleven Y chromosome bi-allelic markers, and 9 Y-STR loci were analyzed among three Kurdish groups: Zazaki and Kurmanji speakers from Turkey, and Kurmanji speakers from Georgia. When compared with published data from other Kurdish groups and from European, Caucasian, and West and Central Asian groups, Kurdish groups are most similar genetically to other West Asian groups, and most distant from Central Asian groups, for both mtDNA and the Y-chromosome. However, Kurdish groups show a closer relationship with European groups than with Caucasian groups based on mtDNA, but the opposite based on the Y-chromosome, indicating some differences in their maternal and paternal histories. The genetic data indicate that the Georgian Kurdish group experienced a bottleneck effect during their migration to the Caucasus, and that they have not had detectable admixture with their geographic neighbours in Georgia. Our results also do not support the hypothesis of the origin of the Zazaki-speaking group being in northern Iran; genetically they are more similar to other Kurdish groups. Genetic analyses of recent events, such as the origins and migrations of Kurdish-speaking groups, can therefore lead to new insights into such migrations.

  19. Evaluation of desensitizing agents on dentin permeability and dentinal tubule occlusion: an in vitro study.

    PubMed

    Oberg, Carolina; Pochapski, Marcia Thais; Farago, Paulo Vitor; Granado, Carlos Jose Fernandes; Pilatti, Gibson Luiz; Santos, Fabio Andre

    2009-01-01

    One hundred twelve specimens from bovine incisors were divided into eight groups: Group 1 (treated with 10% strontium chloride gel), Group 2 (treated with 2% sodium fluoride gel), Group 3 (treated with 2% stannous fluoride gel), Group 4 (treated with 5% potassium nitrate gel), Group 5 (treated with 10% potassium nitrate gel), Group 6 (treated with 3% potassium oxalate gel), Group 7 (treated with hydroxyethylcellulose gel), and Group 8 (which received no treatment). Dentinal tubules were exposed after 0.5 mm of deep abrasion using a carbide bur and EDTA gel application. After each treatment, dentin permeability, tubule occlusion, and chemical elements on dentin were analyzed. There was a significant difference among groups in dentin permeability (p < 0.05 ANOVA). Groups 4, 5, and 6 showed the lowest values, while Groups 1, 7, and 8 exhibited the highest. Groups 1, 2, 3, 7, and 8 showed open dentinal tubules, Groups 4 and 5 had partial tubule occlusion, and most of the tubules in Group 6 were obliterated. Energy-dispersive x-rays revealed similar chemical characteristics among the experimental agents used, with traces of strontium, fluoride, sodium, and potassium. Within the limits of the study, 3% potassium oxalate gel showed the best results in terms of dentin permeability and dentinal tubule occlusion.

  20. Improvement of colonic healing by preoperative oral partially hydrolyzed guar gum (Benefiber) in rats which underwent preoperative radiotherapy.

    PubMed

    Sevinc, Ali Ibrahim; Aydogan, Baki; Canda, Aras Emre; Cetinayak, Oguz; Terzi, Cem; Oktay, Gulgun; Gurel, Duygu; Fuzun, Mehmet

    2013-12-09

    Abstract Background: Neoadjuvant radiotherapy in rectal cancer could interfere with anastomotic healing. We investigated the effects of preoperative oral administration of Benefiber on the healing irradiated colonic anastomosis. Methods: Forty male Wistar rats were divided into four groups. Group I (control group), Group II (Benefiber® pretreatment group), Group III (preoperative radiotherapy group) and Group IV (preoperative radiotherapy and Benefiber® pretreatment group). All animals underwent 1 cm left colon resection and primary anastomosis. On the 3rd and 7th postoperative days, all the rats were anesthetized to assess the anastomotic healing clinically, mechanically, histologically and biochemically. Results: The mean bursting pressure was significantly lower in-group III and significantly higher in-group II on day 7. The histologic parameters of anastomotic healing, such as epithelial regeneration and formation of granulation tissue, were significantly improved by use of preoperative Benefiber® on day 7. The amount of acid-soluble collagen concentrations significantly increased in-group IV compared to group III on day 3. The amount of salt-soluble collagen concentrations significantly increased in group II compared to group III on day 3. Conclusions: Colonic anastomotic healing can be adversely affected by preoperative radiotherapy, but orogastric feeding with Benefiber may improve the healing process.

  1. Interactive effects of melatonin, exercise and diabetes on liver glycogen levels.

    PubMed

    Bicer, Mursel; Akil, Mustafa; Avunduk, Mustafa Cihat; Kilic, Mehmet; Mogulkoc, Rasim; Baltaci, Abdulkerim Kasim

    2011-01-01

    This study aimed to examine the effects of melatonin supplementation on liver glycogen levels in rats with streptozotocin- induced diabetes and subjected to acute swimming exercise. Eighty Sprague-Dawley type adult male rats were divided into eight groups: Group 1, general control; Group 2, melatonin-supplemented control; Group 3, melatonin-supplemented diabetes; Group 4, swimming control; Group 5, melatonin-supplemented swimming; Group 6, melatonin-supplemented diabetic swimming; Group 7, diabetic swimming; Group 8, diabetic control. Melatonin was supplemented at a dose of 3 mg/kg/day intraperitoneally for four weeks. Liver tissue samples were collected and evaluated using a Nikon Eclipse E400 light microscope. All images obtained from the light microscope were transferred to PC medium and evaluated using Clemex PE 3.5 image analysis software. The lowest liver glycogen levels in the study were found in group 4. Liver glycogen levels in groups 3, 6, 7 and 8 (the diabetic groups) were higher than group 4, but lower than those in groups 1 and 2. The lowest liver glycogen levels were obtained in groups 1 and 2. The study indicates that melatonin supplementation maintains the liver glycogen levels that decrease in acute swimming exercise, while induced diabetes prevents this maintenance effect in rats.

  2. Changes in the pleural cavity by pleurodesis using talc or OK-432: an experimental study.

    PubMed

    Muta, Fumihiko; Takamori, Shinzo; Matsuo, Toshihiro; Iwasaki, Yasunori; Yoshiyama, Koichi; Shirouzu, Kazuo

    2011-01-01

    To define the changes in the pleural cavity after pleurodesis induced by talc or OK-432. A total of 30 rats were divided into three groups: a normal saline group (control group, n = 10), a group administered 400 mg/kg talc (talc group, n = 10), and a group administered 0.3 KE/kg OK-432 (OK-432 group, n = 10). Pleural cavities were examined and scored on the 30th day after the intrapleural administration of each agent. Both the talc group and OK-432 group showed significantly higher macroscopic or microscopic pleurodesis scores than the control group (P < 0.05). Upon microscopic evaluation, the pleurodesis scores in the talc group were significantly higher than those in the OK-432 group (P < 0.01).The majority of the pleural thickness was found on the visceral pleura, and the parietal pleura was very thin. The thickness of the visceral pleura in the talc group was significantly higher than that in the OK-432 group (P < 0.005). Pathologically, the pleural thickening in the talc group consisted of fibrous tissue with injury of the pleural mesothelium, and talc particles were seen in the submesothelial fibrotic tissue and inside the alveoli. Talc pleurodesis induces more marked changes in the pleural cavity than OK-432-induced pleurodesis.

  3. Does flexibility in perceptual organization compete with automatic grouping?

    PubMed

    van Assche, Mitsouko; Gos, Pierre; Giersch, Anne

    2012-02-06

    Segregated objects can be sought simultaneously, i.e., mentally "re-grouped." Although the mechanisms underlying such "re-grouping" clearly differ from automatic grouping, it is unclear whether or not the end products of "re-grouping" and automatic grouping are the same. If they are, they would have similar impact on visual organization but would be in conflict. We compared the consequences of grouping and re-grouping on the performance cost induced by stimuli presented across hemifields. Two identical and contiguous target figures had to be identified within a display of circles and squares alternating around a fixation point. Eye tracking was used to check central fixation. The target pair could be located in the same or separate hemifields. A large cost of presenting targets across hemifields was observed. Grouping by connectedness yielded two types of target pair, connected and unconnected. Subjects prioritized unconnected pairs efficiently when prompted to do so, suggesting "re-grouping." However, unlike automatic grouping, this did not affect the cost of across-hemifield presentation. The suggestion is that re-grouping yields different outputs to automatic grouping, such that a fresh representation resulting from re-grouping complements the one resulting from automatic grouping but does not replace it. This is one step toward understanding how our mental exploration of the world ties in and coexists with ongoing perception.

  4. Collective efficacy, group potency, and group performance: meta-analyses of their relationships, and test of a mediation model.

    PubMed

    Stajkovic, Alexander D; Lee, Dongseop; Nyberg, Anthony J

    2009-05-01

    The authors examined relationships among collective efficacy, group potency, and group performance. Meta-analytic results (based on 6,128 groups, 31,019 individuals, 118 correlations adjusted for dependence, and 96 studies) reveal that collective efficacy was significantly related to group performance (.35). In the proposed nested 2-level model, collective efficacy assessment (aggregation and group discussion) was tested as the 1st-level moderator. It showed significantly different average correlations with group performance (.32 vs. .45), but the group discussion assessment was homogeneous, whereas the aggregation assessment was heterogeneous. Consequently, there was no 2nd-level moderation for the group discussion, and heterogeneity in the aggregation group was accounted for by the 2nd-level moderator, task interdependence (high, moderate, and low levels were significant; the higher the level, the stronger the relationship). The 2nd and 3rd meta-analyses indicated that group potency was related to group performance (.29) and to collective efficacy (.65). When tested in a structural equation modeling analysis based on meta-analytic findings, collective efficacy fully mediated the relationship between group potency and group performance. The authors suggest future research and convert their findings to a probability of success index to help facilitate practice. (c) 2009 APA, all rights reserved.

  5. Prophylactic antiemetic effects of Midazolam, Ondansetron, and their combination after middle ear surgery.

    PubMed

    Honarmand, Azim; Safavi, Mohammadreza; Chegeni, Mansoureh; Hirmanpour, Anahita; Nazem, Masoud; Sarizdi, Seyyad Hamid

    2016-01-01

    The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the efficacy of midazolam-ondansetron combination in prevention of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) after middle ear surgery and its comparison with using midazolam or ondansetron alone. One hundred and forty patients were enrolled in four groups to receive midazolam 0.75 mg/kg in group M, ondansetron 4 mg in group O, midazolam 0.75 mg/kg and ondansetron 4 mg in group MO, and saline 0.90% in group S intravenously just before anesthesia. Assessment of nausea, vomiting, rescue antiemetic, and side effects of study drugs such as headache and dizziness was carried out postoperatively for 24 h. The incidence of PONV was significantly smaller in group MO than group M and group O, while there was no significant difference between group M and group O during the first 24 h postoperatively. Requirement to the additional antiemetic was significantly more in group S (71.4%) compared to other groups, while in group MO (11.4%) was lower than group M (31.4%) and group O (34.3%). Our study showed that prophylactic administration of midazolam 0.75 mg/kg combined with ondansetron 4 mg was more effective than using midazolam or ondansetron alone in prevention of PONV after middle ear surgery.

  6. Prophylactic antiemetic effects of Midazolam, Ondansetron, and their combination after middle ear surgery

    PubMed Central

    Honarmand, Azim; Safavi, Mohammadreza; Chegeni, Mansoureh; Hirmanpour, Anahita; Nazem, Masoud; Sarizdi, Seyyad Hamid

    2016-01-01

    Objective: The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the efficacy of midazolam-ondansetron combination in prevention of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) after middle ear surgery and its comparison with using midazolam or ondansetron alone. Methods: One hundred and forty patients were enrolled in four groups to receive midazolam 0.75 mg/kg in group M, ondansetron 4 mg in group O, midazolam 0.75 mg/kg and ondansetron 4 mg in group MO, and saline 0.90% in group S intravenously just before anesthesia. Assessment of nausea, vomiting, rescue antiemetic, and side effects of study drugs such as headache and dizziness was carried out postoperatively for 24 h. Findings: The incidence of PONV was significantly smaller in group MO than group M and group O, while there was no significant difference between group M and group O during the first 24 h postoperatively. Requirement to the additional antiemetic was significantly more in group S (71.4%) compared to other groups, while in group MO (11.4%) was lower than group M (31.4%) and group O (34.3%). Conclusion: Our study showed that prophylactic administration of midazolam 0.75 mg/kg combined with ondansetron 4 mg was more effective than using midazolam or ondansetron alone in prevention of PONV after middle ear surgery. PMID:26985431

  7. Novel groups and unique distribution of phage phoH genes in paddy waters in northeast China

    PubMed Central

    Wang, Xinzhen; Liu, Junjie; Yu, Zhenhua; Jin, Jian; Liu, Xiaobing; Wang, Guanghua

    2016-01-01

    Although bacteriophages are ubiquitous in various environments, their genetic diversity is primarily investigated in pelagic marine environments. Corresponding studies in terrestrial environments are few. In this study, we conducted the first survey of phage diversity in the paddy ecosystem by targeting a new viral biomarker gene, phoH. A total of 424 phoH sequences were obtained from four paddy waters generated from a pot experiment with different soils collected from open paddy fields in northeast China. The majority of phoH sequences in paddy waters were novel, with the highest identity of ≤70% with known phoH sequences. Four unique groups (Group α, Group β, Group γ and Group δ) and seven new subgroups (Group 2b, Group 3d, Group 3e, Group 6a, Group 6b, Group 6c and Group 6d) were formed exclusively with the clones from the paddy waters, suggesting novel phage phoH groups exist in the paddy ecosystem. Additionally, the distribution proportions of phoH clones in different groups varied among paddy water samples, suggesting the phage community in paddy fields is biogeographically distributed. Furthermore, non-metric multidimensional scaling analysis indicated that phage phoH assemblages in paddy waters were distinct from those in marine waters. PMID:27910929

  8. Group therapy in public mental health services: approaches, patients and group therapists.

    PubMed

    Lorentzen, S; Ruud, T

    2014-04-01

    Group therapy is used extensively within public mental health services, but more detailed knowledge is needed. All 25 health authorities in Norway were invited to describe their groups: theory, primary tasks, interventions, structure, patients and therapists. Four hundred twenty-six groups, 296 in community mental health centres and 130 in hospitals, were categorized into nine types, based on theoretical background. Psychodynamic groups were most frequent, followed by cognitive-behavioural, psycho-educative, social skills/coping and art/expressive groups. Weekly sessions of 90 min and treatment duration <6 or >12 months was most frequent. Main diagnosis for 2391 patients: depression (517), personality disorder (396), schizophrenia/psychosis (313) and social phobia (249). Patients with depression or personality disorder were mostly in psychodynamic groups, psychosis/bipolar disorder in psycho-educative groups. Cognitive-behavioural groups were used across several diagnoses. Most therapists were nurses, only 50% had a formal training in group therapy. There is a plethora of groups, some based on one theoretical school, while others integrate theory from several 'camps'. Patients with similar diagnosis were offered different group approaches, although some trends existed. More research evidence from regular clinical groups is needed, and clinician-researcher networks should be developed. More group therapists with formal training are needed. © 2013 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  9. Comparison of 0.25% Ropivacaine for Intraperitoneal Instillation v/s Rectus Sheath Block for Postoperative Pain Relief Following Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy: A Prospective Study

    PubMed Central

    Naithani, Udita; Singariya, Geeta; Gupta, Sunanda

    2016-01-01

    Introduction As Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy (LC) is not a totally pain free procedure, with the pain being most intense on the day of surgery and on the following day. Various techniques are available for postoperative pain relief like intraperitoneal instillation of local anaesthetics and rectus sheath block (RSB)which may provide effective pain relief. Aim To compare the efficacy of preemptive administration (initiated before the surgical procedure) of intraperitoneal instillation and rectus sheath block using ropivacaine for postoperative analgesia after laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Materials and Methods A total of 75 selected patients were randomly assigned to three equal groups as Group R, who received bilateral RSB with 0.25 % ropivacaine 15 ml on either side; Group I, who received intraperitoneal instillation of 0.25% ropivacaine 50 ml and Group C (Control group), who received only rescue analgesic on pain. These were compared regarding postoperative analgesia in terms of Visual Analog Scale (0-10 cm), Prince Henry Hospital Pain Score (0-3), time to first dose of rescue analgesic (tramadol), total rescue analgesic consumption in 48 hours, patient satisfaction scores (1-7) and adverse effects. Results The time to first rescue analgesic was significantly longer in Group R (16.16±4.73h) and Group I (7.84±1.34h) as compared to Group C (1.72±0.67h), p<0.001. Mean tramadol consumption in 48h for each patient was significantly less in Group R (148±54.92mg) and Group I (202±33.78mg) as compared to Group C (298±22.73mg) p<0.001. Postoperative pain scores were also significantly less in Group R and Group I as compared to Group C during first 6 hours, p<0.05. The difference in above parameters was also significant between Group R and Group I, p<0.05. Thus order of postoperative analgesia effect was: Group R > Group I > Group C. Rescue analgesic requirement showed a 32.21% reduction in Group I and 50.33% reduction in Group R as compared to Group C. Patient Satisfaction Scores (PSS) showed a significant difference among groups with acceptable PSS scores as: Group R (92%) v/s Group I (40%) v/s Group C (20%) p<0.001. Conclusion Pre-emptive administration of rectus sheath block or intraperitoneal instillation of 0.25% ropivacaine was found effective in providing better postoperative analgesia as compared to control group after laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Among these two techniques, rectus sheath block was found to be superior over intraperitoneal instillation. PMID:27656533

  10. [Impact of prostaglandin F2α and endothelin, pulsation index and resistance index of uterine artery blood flow on dysmenorrhea patients of cold stagnation and blood stasis syndrome with Dingkun Dan].

    PubMed

    Ma, Kun; Chen, Yan-Xia; Wang, Yan-Ying

    2017-12-01

    This research apply Dingkun Dan to treat patients with dysmenorrhea of cold stagnation and blood stasis syndrome. This study observed its effectiveness and safety of the treatment of the disease and its influence on the serum prostaglandin F2α, endothefin, pulsatility index and resistant index of uterine artery blood, to explore the possible mechanism of effect of Dingkun Dan in the treatment of dysmenorrhea and provide scientific basis for clinical application. The 75 patients with dysmenorrhea of cold stagnation and blood stasis who met the inclusion criteria, were divided into treatment group (n=37) and control group (n=38) by using random number remainder grouping method. In the treatment group patients were treated with Dingkun Dan, the other group were given Fuke Zaizao Jiaonang. Two groups have same time to take the medicine, three days prior to the menstruation for ten days. Medication for three menstrual cycles was seen as a course of treatment. To observe and compare the two groups of patients before and after treatment VAS score, syndrome integral, serum levels of prostaglandin F2α and endothelin, pulsation index and resistance index of uterine artery blood flow and related safety index changes. Finally makes statistical analysis. It has been identified that, Treatment group and control group can reduce pain symptom of dysmenorrhea patients and improve the syndromes scores, compare with control group, effect of the treatment group is more significant(P<0.01). VAS pain curative effect: the treatment group and control group total effective rate respectively were, 97.22%, 69.44%, markedly effective rate were 83.33%, 30.56%, comparison between two groups, treatment group is better than that of control group(P＜0.01). Syndromes curative effect: the treatment group and control group total effective rate respectively were 97.22%, 94.44%, markedly effective rate was 66.67%, 2.78%, respectively. The comparison between two groups, the total effective rate has no obvious difference, but markedly effective rate of treatment group is better than that of control group(P＜0.01). The treatment group can significantly reduce the patients' serum level of prostaglandin F2α(P<0.01), but no obvious difference was found in the control group before and after treatment. Both groups can significantly reduce the serum level of endothelin(P<0.01), comparison between two groups, the treatment group is more significant(P<0.01).Both treatment group and control group were significantly lower left and right pulsation index and resistance index of uterus artery blood flow(P<0.01). Between groups to compare the effect, the treatment group is more significant(P<0.01). Both treatment group and control group in the security check before and after treatment found no significant anomalies. Dingkun Dan in treating dysmenorrhea with cold stagnation and blood stasis syndrome seems to have remarkable clinical curative effect and safety, which may be achieved by significantly reducing the serum level of prostaglandin F2αand endothefin of the patients, and reducing the pulsation index and resistance index of uterine artery blood flow of the patients, to improve uterine artery condition of blood, and correcting local tissue ischemia to relieve pain. Copyright© by the Chinese Pharmaceutical Association.

  11. Efficacy of Osthole in Management of Hypoperfused Retina

    PubMed Central

    2018-01-01

    Purpose To determine the effect of osthole on the retina in a chronic cerebral hypoperfusion (CCH) rat model and to investigate its therapeutic activity. Methods Seventy-two rats were randomly allocated into 6 groups. CCH was induced by permanent bilateral common carotid artery occlusion (BCCAO) in five groups. Sham surgery was performed without occlusion of the artery in the sixth group (control group). Animals were administered with saline (model group), osthole (osthole-IG group), aspirin (aspirin group), or ginaton (ginaton group); the osthole-PI group was performed with peribulbar injection of osthole. Four rats in each group were sacrificed every 5 days after drug administration, and histopathology along with morphology of retina were observed. Fundus fluorescein angiography was performed before the animals were sacrificed at day 15. Retinal Akt, NF-κB, Bax, and Bcl-2 levels were assessed using immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, and reverse-transcription PCR; retinal injury was assessed using TUNEL in situ; retinal levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malondialdehyde (MDA) were measured. Results Fundus fluorescein angiography revealed the retinal vascular diameter in the osthole-IG group rats to be wider than that in the model, osthole-PI, aspirin, or ginaton group rats. Histological analysis of retinal tissue revealed an increase in retinal thickness in all treatment groups, and significant improvement was noticed in the osthole-IG group. TUNEL staining revealed fewer apoptotic cells in the osthole-IG and osthole-PI groups than in the other groups. For immunohistochemistry results, in the osthole-IG group, levels of NF-κB and Akt were lower than those in the other treated groups, while levels of the ratio Bcl-2/Bax were higher. Levels of MDA were lower and levels of SOD were higher in the osthole-IG group than in the other groups. Conclusions Osthole protects the retina from ischemia injury secondary to CCH induced by BCCAO, mainly through anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiapoptotic effects. PMID:29713525

  12. Psychological effects of belonging to a Facebook weight management group in overweight and obese adults: Results of a randomised controlled trial.

    PubMed

    Jane, Monica; Foster, Jonathan; Hagger, Martin; Ho, Suleen; Kane, Robert; Pal, Sebely

    2018-05-18

    This study was conducted to test whether the weight outcomes in an online social networking group were mediated by changes to psychological outcome measures in overweight and obese individuals, following a weight management programme delivered via Facebook. The data analysed in this study were collected during a three-armed, randomised, controlled clinical weight management trial conducted with overweight and obese adults over 24 weeks. Two intervention groups were given the same weight management programme: one within a Facebook group, along with peer support from other group members (the Facebook Group); the other group received the same programme in a pamphlet (the Pamphlet Group). A Control Group was given standard care. The primary outcome was weight; secondary outcomes included the following domains from self-reported questionnaires: energy intake and expenditure; psychological health, social relationships, physical health, quality of life, depression, anxiety, stress, health anxiety, happiness, as well as Facebook Group participants' opinion of this group. The Facebook Group experienced a reduction in their baseline weight measurement by week 24, significantly compared to the Control Group (p = .016). The Facebook Group recorded a significant increase in the psychological health domain during the trial (at week 12) relative to their baseline measurement, and significant compared to the Control Group (p = .022). Mediation analysis indicated a statistical trend, but not statistical significance, for psychological health as a mediator to weight loss in the Facebook Group. While both intervention groups showed significant changes in psychological outcome measures, the Facebook Group was the only group to experience statistically significant weight loss by the end of the 24 weeks. Therefore, an examination of other psychological and/or behavioural outcome measures undertaken in larger studies in the future may help to identify significant mediators to improved weight loss outcomes in online social networking groups. © 2018 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  13. Effects of blood-activating and stasis-removing drugs combined with VEGF gene transfer on angiogenesis in ischemic necrosis of the femoral head.

    PubMed

    Li, Jun-Hui; Wu, Ya-Ling; Ye, Jian-Hong; Ning, Ya-Gong; Yu, Hai-Ying; Peng, Zhong-Jie; Luan, Xiao-Wen

    2009-09-01

    To observe the promoting effects of blood-activating and stasis-removing Chinese drugs combined with vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) gene transfer on angiogenesis in ischemic necrosis of the femoral head. Forty Japanese giant-ear rabbits were randomly divided into a control group, a model group, a Chinese drug group, a gene group, and a combined group. After 8 weeks of treatment, the rate of VEGF positive cell expression in the synovium of the femoral head was measured using the immunohistochemical method, and the number of blood vessels in the femoral head was measured by digital subtraction angiography. The rate of VEGF positive cell expression in the model group was significantly lower than that in the Chinese drug group (P < 0.05) and very significantly lower than those in other groups (P < 0.01); but in the combined group it was significantly higher than in the Chinese drug group (P < 0.05). The differences in the number of blood vessels in area A between the model group and other groups were not statistically significant. However, in area B, the number of blood vessels significantly increased in the control group, the gene group and the combined group as compared with the model group (P < 0.05), and in the combined group the number of blood vessels was significantly more than in the gene group (P < 0.05); but in the Chinese drug group it was not significantly different than the model group (P > 0.05). Either the blood-activating and stasis-removing Chinese drugs or VEGF gene transfer can promote the angiogenesis and building of collateral circulation for femoral head ischemic necrosis, and the combined therapy with Chinese drugs or VEGF gene transfer may show a better therapeutic effect. The present study provides an experimental basis for clinical application of the combined therapy with the blood-activating and stasis-removing Chinese drugs and VEGF gene transfer.

  14. Neural Correlates of the In-Group Memory Advantage on the Encoding and Recognition of Faces

    PubMed Central

    Herzmann, Grit; Curran, Tim

    2013-01-01

    People have a memory advantage for faces that belong to the same group, for example, that attend the same university or have the same personality type. Faces from such in-group members are assumed to receive more attention during memory encoding and are therefore recognized more accurately. Here we use event-related potentials related to memory encoding and retrieval to investigate the neural correlates of the in-group memory advantage. Using the minimal group procedure, subjects were classified based on a bogus personality test as belonging to one of two personality types. While the electroencephalogram was recorded, subjects studied and recognized faces supposedly belonging to the subject’s own and the other personality type. Subjects recognized in-group faces more accurately than out-group faces but the effect size was small. Using the individual behavioral in-group memory advantage in multivariate analyses of covariance, we determined neural correlates of the in-group advantage. During memory encoding (300 to 1000 ms after stimulus onset), subjects with a high in-group memory advantage elicited more positive amplitudes for subsequently remembered in-group than out-group faces, showing that in-group faces received more attention and elicited more neural activity during initial encoding. Early during memory retrieval (300 to 500 ms), frontal brain areas were more activated for remembered in-group faces indicating an early detection of group membership. Surprisingly, the parietal old/new effect (600 to 900 ms) thought to indicate recollection processes differed between in-group and out-group faces independent from the behavioral in-group memory advantage. This finding suggests that group membership affects memory retrieval independent of memory performance. Comparisons with a previous study on the other-race effect, another memory phenomenon influenced by social classification of faces, suggested that the in-group memory advantage is dominated by top-down processing whereas the other-race effect is also influenced by extensive perceptual experience. PMID:24358226

  15. Effect of dexmedetomidine on testicular torsion/detorsion damage in rats.

    PubMed

    Hanci, Volkan; Erol, Bülent; Bektaş, Sibel; Mungan, Görkem; Yurtlu, Serhan; Tokgöz, Hüsnü; Can, Murat; Ozkoçak Turan, Işil

    2010-01-01

    We assessed the antioxidant activity of dexmedetomidine (DEX) during an ischemic period in a rat model of testicular torsion/detorsion (T/DT) by using biochemical and histopathological methods. Wistar Albino male rats weighing 250-300 g were divided into three groups: sham (group S, n = 7); torsion/detorsion (group T/DT, n = 7), and DEX treatment (group DEX, n = 7). In the T/DT group, right testes were rotated 720 degrees for 1 h. Group S served for normal basal values. Rats in group T/DT were operated to make T/DT, this group served as a control group. Group DEX received intraperitoneal DEX 10 microg . kg(-1) after the 30-min torsion period. For measurement of total antioxidant enzyme activities and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, testes of 7 animals in each group were excised after 4 h of reperfusion. Germ cell apoptosis was evaluated using the apoptosis protease-activating factor 1 (APAF-1) antibody in all groups and also on the expressions of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) were assessed within the bilateral testes. Mean MDA levels in group T/DT were significantly higher than in groups S and DEX (p < 0.05). There were also significant decreases in mean total antioxidant activities in group T/DT when compared to groups S and DEX (p < 0.05). These values were significantly higher in group DEX than group T/DT. Germ cell apoptosis, eNOS and iNOS levels were significantly higher in group T/DT when compared to groups S and DEX (p < 0.05). DEX treatment has potential biochemical and histopathological benefits by preventing ischemia/reperfusion-related cellular damage in an experimental testicular torsion model. Preference of DEX for anesthesia during the detorsion procedure may attenuate ischemia-reperfusion injury. Copyright 2010 S. Karger AG, Basel.

  16. [Influence of bear bile on rat hepatocarcinoma induced by diethylnitrosamine].

    PubMed

    Zhou, Jian-Yin; Yin, Zhen-Yu; Wang, Sheng-Yu; Yan, Jiang-Hua; Zhao, Yi-Lin; Wu, Duan; Liu, Zheng-Jin; Zhang, Sheng; Wang, Xiao-Min

    2012-11-01

    To investigate the influence of bear bile on rat hepatocarcinoma induced by diethylnitrosamine (DEN), a total of 40 rats were randomly divided into 4 groups: normal control group, model group, and two bear bile treatment groups. The rat liver cancer model was induced by breeding with water containing 100 mg x L(-1) DEN for 14 weeks. The rats of the bear bile groups received bear bile powder (200 or 400 mg x kg(-1)) orally 5 times per week for 18 weeks. The general condition and the body weight of rats were examined every day. After 18 weeks the activities of serum alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST) and total bilirubin (TBIL) were detected. Meanwhile, the pathological changes of liver tissues were observed after H&E staining. The expression of proliferative cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and a-smooth muscle actin (alpha-SMA) in liver tissue were detected by immunohistochemical method. After 4 weeks the body weights of rats in normal group were significantly more than that in other groups (P < 0.05); and that in the two bile groups was significantly more than that in the model group. Compared with normal group, the level of serum glutamic-pyruvic transaminase and total bilirubin increased significantly in other groups; compared with model group, these two indexes decreased significantly in two bile groups. Hepatocellular carcinoma occurred in all rats except for normal group; there were classic cirrhosis and cancer in model group while there were mild cirrhosis and high differentiation in two bile groups. There were almost no expressions of PCNA and alpha-SMA in normal group while there were high expressions in model group; the two bile groups had some expressions but were inferior to the model group, and alpha-SMA reduced markedly. It indicated that bear bile restrained the development of liver cancer during DEN inducing rat hepatocarcinoma, which may be related to its depressing hepatic stellate cell activation and relieving hepatic lesion and cirrhosis.

  17. Synthesis and revision of groups within the Newark Supergroup, eastern North America

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Weems, R.E.; Olsen, P.E.

    1997-01-01

    The Newark Supergroup currently includes nine stratigraphic groups, each of which applies to part or all of the rock column of only one or a few basins. Because the group nomenclature within the Newark Supergroup is neither inclusive nor parallel in its concepts, nearly half of the strata within the Newark Supergroup lacks any group placement. A new system is proposed herein that (1) establishes unambiguous group boundaries, (2) places all Newark Supergroup strata into groups, (3) reduces the number of group names from nine to three, (4) creates parallelism between groups and three major successive tectonic events that created the rift basins containing the Newark Supergroup, and (5) coincidentally provides isochronous or nearly isochronous group boundaries. These proposed groups are (1) the Chatham Group (Middle Triassic to basal Lower Jurassic sedimentary rocks), (2) the Meriden Group (Lower Jurassic extrusive volcanic and sedimentary rocks), and (3) the Agawam Group (new name) (Lower Jurassic sedimentary rocks above all early Mesozoic igneous intrusive and extrusive rocks). This new rock classification system makes use of the fact that a discrete interval of synchronous or nearly synchronous volcanism and plutonism occurred throughout the early Mesozoic rift system of eastern North America. The presence or absence of volcanic rocks provides a powerful stratigraphic tool for establishing regional groups and group boundaries. The presence of sedimentary rocks injected by diabase dikes and sills, in the absence of extrusive volcanic rocks, places Newark Supergroup rocks in the Chatham Group. The presence of extrusive volcanic rocks, interbedded with sedimentary rocks injected by diabase dikes and sills, places Newark Supergroup rocks in the Meriden Group. The presence of sedimentary rocks lacking both extrusive volcanic rocks and diabase dikes and sills, places Newark Supergroup rocks in the Agawam Group. Application of this new regional group stratigraphy to the early Mesozoic rift basins requires revision of the stratigraphy of several basins to make formation boundaries match group boundaries.

  18. Dendritic cell co-stimulatory and co-inhibitory markers in chronic HCV: An Egyptian study

    PubMed Central

    Fouad, Hanan; Raziky, Maissa Saeed El; Aziz, Rasha Ahmed Abdel; Sabry, Dina; Aziz, Ghada Mahmoud Abdel; Ewais, Manal; Sayed, Ahmed Reda

    2013-01-01

    AIM: To assess co-stimulatory and co-inhibitory markers of dendritic cells (DCs) in hepatitis C virus (HCV) infected subjects with and without uremia. METHODS: Three subject groups were included in the study: group 1 involved 50 control subjects, group 2 involved 50 patients with chronic HCV infection and group 3 involved 50 HCV uremic subjects undergoing hemodialysis. CD83, CD86 and CD40 as co-stimulatory markers and PD-L1 as a co-inhibitory marker were assessed in peripheral blood mononuclear cells by real-time polymerase chain reaction. Interleukin-10 (IL-10) and hyaluronic acid (HA) levels were also assessed. All findings were correlated with disease activity, viral load and fibrogenesis. RESULTS: There was a significant decrease in co-stimulatory markers; CD83, CD86 and CD40 in groups 2 and 3 vs the control group. Co-stimulatory markers were significantly higher in group 3 vs group 2. There was a significant elevation in PD-L1 in both HCV groups vs the control group. PD-L1 was significantly lower in group 3 vs group 2. There was a significant elevation in IL-10 and HA levels in groups 2 and 3, where IL-10 was higher in group 3 and HA was lower in group 3 vs group 2. HA level was significantly correlated with disease activity and fibrosis grade in group 2. IL-10 was significantly correlated with fibrosis grade in group 2. There were significant negative correlations between co-stimulatory markers and viral load in groups 2 and 3, except CD83 in dialysis patients. There was a significant positive correlation between PD-L1 and viral load in both HCV groups. CONCLUSION: A significant decrease in DC co-stimulatory markers and a significant increase in a DC co-inhibitory marker were observed in HCV subjects and to a lesser extent in dialysis patients. PMID:24282359

  19. Minocycline increases the life span and motor activity and decreases lipid peroxidation in manganese treated Drosophila melanogaster.

    PubMed

    Bonilla, E; Contreras, R; Medina-Leendertz, S; Mora, M; Villalobos, V; Bravo, Y

    2012-03-29

    The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of Minocycline in the life span, motor activity, and lipid peroxidation of Drosophila melanogaster treated with manganese. Two days after emerging from the pupa male wild-type D. melanogaster were fed for 13 days with corn media containing 15 mM manganese. Then, they were divided in six groups of 300 flies each: group (a) remained treated with manganese (Mn group); group (b) began treatment with Minocycline (0.05 mM) (Mn-Minocycline group); group (c) received no additional treatment (Mn-no treatment group); group (d) simultaneously fed with manganese and Minocycline (Mn+Minocycline group). Additionally, a control (group e) with no treatment and another group (f) fed only with Minocycline after emerging from the pupa were added. All the manganese treated flies (group a) were dead on the 25th day. The life span in group f (101.66±1.33 days, mean S.E.M.) and of group b (97.00±3.46 days) were similar, but in both cases it was significantly higher than in group e (68.33±1.76 days), group c (67.05±2.30 days) and in those of group d (37.33±0.88). Manganese (groups a and d) decreased motor activity in D. melanogaster. In the Minocycline fed flies (groups b and f) a higher motor activity was detected. In Mn-Minocycline and Mn+Minocycline treated flies a significant decrease of MDA levels was detected when compared to the Minocycline group indicating that Minocycline and Mn appear to have a synergistic effect. In conclusion, Minocycline increased the life span and motor activity and decreased MDA formation of manganese treated D. melanogaster, probably by an inhibition of the production of reactive oxygen species. Manganese also exerted an antioxidant effect as shown by the significant decrease of MDA levels when compared to control flies. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

  20. [Research on the mechanism and regulation of overtraining-related the function of neutrophils by the inhibitor of NADPH oxidase and glutamine supplementation].

    PubMed

    Dong, Jing-Mei; Chen, Pei-Jie

    2013-07-01

    To investigate the method and mechanism for exercise-related immunosuppression via the inhibitor of NADPH oxidase diphenyleneiodonium(DPI) and glutamine supplementation and on the function of neutrophils after overtraining. Fifty male Wistar rats were randomly divided into five groups: a negative control group (C), an overtraining group (E), an overtraining + DPI intervention group (D), an overtraining+ glutamine supplementation group(G) and combined glutamine + DPI intervention group(DG). After 36 - 40 h from the last training, eight rats were randomly selected from each group, and blood was sampled from the orbital vein. ELISAs were used to measure serum cytokine levels and lipid peroxidation in blood plasma. Flow cytometry was used to measure neutrophil respiratory burst and phagocytosis. The activity of NADPH oxidase was assessed by chemiluminescence and the gene expression of gp91(phox) and p47(phox) of the NADPH-oxidase subunit was checked by Western blot. Compared with group C, the plasma concentrations of NO increased in group G, and the NO, cytokine-induced neutrophil chemoattractant (CINC) concentrations in group DG increased significantly. The respiratory burst and phagocytosis function of neutrophils were decreased in group E, but in group DG were increased when compared with those of group E. After overtraining the expression of gp91(phox) and p47(phox) was up regulated in group E. There were no significant changes in other groups except group DG, in which the expression of gp91(phox) was down regulated. Compared with group E, the expression of gp91(phox) and p47(phox) was up regulated in group D, group G and group DG. The activation of NADPH oxidase is responsible for the production of superoxide anions, which may be related to the decrease in neutrophil function after over training and is the mechanism of exercise-related immunosuppression. The DPI treatment combined glutamine supplementation can reverse the decrease neutrophils function after overtraining in vitro.

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