Effects of Additions of Monascus and Laccaic acid on the Color and Quality Properties of Nitrite-Free Emulsion Sausage during Refrigerated Storage

PubMed Central

Moon, Sung-Sil

2017-01-01

This effect of Monascus and Laccaic acid on the chemical composition, physical, texture and sensory properties of sausage were investigated during storage. Eight treatments (T) of sausage such as T1 (12 ppm sodium nitrite), while T2, T3, T4, T5, T6 and T7 were formulated with different ratios of Monascus/Laccaic acid: 63/7.0, 108/12, 135/15, 59.5/10.5, 102/18 and 127.5/22.5 ppm, respectively. The batch formulated without nitrite or Monascus and laccaic acid was served as control (C). The control sausages had higher pH values compared to the treated ones at 3, 10 and 28 d storage (p<0.05). After 10 d storage, the pH values decreased in treated sausage samples (p<0.05). The T1 and T4 presented the lowest yellowness and lightness values, respectively over the storage period. The redness values were increased as increasing Monascus and Laccaic acid amounts (T2-T4, T5-T7). The addition of Monascus and Laccaic acid had significantly higher hardness and springiness values (p<0.05) compared with the control in 3, 19 or 28 d storage. The results indicated that the addition of Monascus and Laccaic acid could improve the redness of the products. PMID:28316466

Use of First-phase Insulin Secretion in Early Diagnosis of Thyroid Diabetes and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

PubMed Central

Meng, Li-Heng; Huang, Yao; Zhou, Jia; Liang, Xing-Huan; Xian, Jing; Li, Li; Qin, Ying-Fen

2017-01-01

Background: A relationship between hyperthyroidism and insulin secretion in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has been reported. Therefore, this study explored the use of first-phase insulin secretion in the differential diagnosis of thyroid diabetes (TDM) and T2DM. Methods: In total, 101 patients with hyperthyroidism were divided into hyperthyroidism with normal glucose tolerance (TNGT), hyperthyroidism with impaired glucose regulation (TIGR), and diabetes (TDM) groups. Furthermore, 96 patients without hyperthyroidism were recruited as control groups (normal glucose tolerance [NGT], impaired glucose regulation [IGR], and T2DM). The following parameters were evaluated: homeostasis model assessment (HOMA)-IR, HOMA-β, modified β-cell function index (MBCI), peak insulin/fasting insulin (IP/I0), AUCins-OGTT, and AUCins-OGTT/AUCglu-OGTT from the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) insulin release test were utilized to assess the second-phase insulin secretion, while the IP/I0, AIR0′~10′, and AUCins-IVGTT from the intravenous glucose tolerance test (IVGTT) insulin release test were used to assess the first-phase insulin secretion. Results: In the OGTT, the HOMA-β values of the TNGT and TDM groups were higher than those of the NGT and T2DM groups (all P < 0.05). In the hyperthyroidism groups, the MBCI of the TDM group was lower than that of the TNGT and TIGR groups (all P < 0.05). Among the control groups, the MBCI values of the IGR and T2DM groups were lower than that of the normal glucose tolerance (NGT) group (all P < 0.05). In the IVGTT, insulin secretion peaked for all groups at 2–4 min, except for the T2DM group, which showed a low plateau and no secretion peak. The IP values of the TNGT, TIGR, and TDM groups were higher than those of the NGT, IGR, and T2DM groups (all P < 0.05). The Ip/I0, AIR0′~10′, and AUCins-IVGTT values of the TDM group were higher than those of the T2DM group but were lower than those of the TNGT, TIGR, NGR, and IGR groups (all P < 0.05). Compared with the other five groups, the Ip/I0, AIR0′~10′, and AUCins-IVGTT values of the T2DM group were significantly decreased (all P < 0.05). The Ip/I0 and AUCins-IVGTT values of the TNGT group were higher than those of the NGT group (all P < 0.05). Conclusions: β-cell function in TDM patients is superior to that in T2DM patients. First-phase insulin secretion could be used as an early diagnostic marker to differentiate TDM and T2DM. PMID:28345543

Acute pancreatitis with gradient echo T2*-weighted magnetic resonance imaging

PubMed Central

Tang, Meng Yue; Chen, Tian Wu; Huang, Xiao Hua; Li, Xing Hui; Wang, Si Yue; Liu, Nian

2016-01-01

Background To study gradient recalled echo (GRE) T2*-weighted imaging (T2*WI) for normal pancreas and acute pancreatitis (AP). Methods Fifty-one patients without any pancreatic disorders (control group) and 117 patients with AP were recruited. T2* values derived from T2*WI of the pancreas were measured for the two groups. The severity of AP was graded by the magnetic resonance severity index (MRSI) and the Acute Physiology and Chronic Healthy Evaluation II (APACHE II) scoring system. Logistic regression was used to analyze the relationship between the T2* values and AP severity. The usefulness of the T2* value for diagnosing AP and the relationship between the T2* values and the severity of AP were analyzed. Results On GRE-T2*WI, the normal pancreas showed a well-marinated and consistently homogeneous isointensity. Edematous AP, as well as the non-necrotic area in necrotizing AP, showed ill-defined but homogeneous signal intensity. AP with pancreatic hemorrhage showed a decreased T2* value and a signal loss on the signal decay curve. The T2* value of pancreas in the AP group was higher than that of the control group (t=−8.20, P<0.05). The T2* value tended to increase along with the increase in MRSI scores but not with the APACHE II scores (P>0.05). AP was associated with a one standard deviation increment in the T2* value (OR =1.37; 95% CI: 1.216–1.532). Conclusions T2*WI demonstrates a few characteristics of the normal pancreas and AP, which could potentially be helpful for detecting hemorrhage, and contributes to diagnosing AP and its severity. PMID:27190768

Automated T2-mapping of the Menisci From Magnetic Resonance Images in Patients with Acute Knee Injury.

PubMed

Paproki, Anthony; Engstrom, Craig; Strudwick, Mark; Wilson, Katharine J; Surowiec, Rachel K; Ho, Charles; Crozier, Stuart; Fripp, Jurgen

2017-10-01

This study aimed to evaluate the accuracy of an automated method for segmentation and T2 mapping of the medial meniscus (MM) and lateral meniscus (LM) in clinical magnetic resonance images from patients with acute knee injury. Eighty patients scheduled for surgery of an anterior cruciate ligament or meniscal injury underwent magnetic resonance imaging of the knee (multiplanar two-dimensional [2D] turbo spin echo [TSE] or three-dimensional [3D]-TSE examinations, T2 mapping). Each meniscus was automatically segmented from the 2D-TSE (composite volume) or 3D-TSE images, auto-partitioned into anterior, mid, and posterior regions, and co-registered onto the T2 maps. The Dice similarity index (spatial overlap) was calculated between automated and manual segmentations of 2D-TSE (15 patients), 3D-TSE (16 patients), and corresponding T2 maps (31 patients). Pearson and intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) were calculated between automated and manual T2 values. T2 values were compared (Wilcoxon rank sum tests) between torn and non-torn menisci for the subset of patients with both manual and automated segmentations to compare statistical outcomes of both methods. The Dice similarity index values for the 2D-TSE, 3D-TSE, and T2 map volumes, respectively, were 76.4%, 84.3%, and 75.2% for the MM and 76.4%, 85.1%, and 76.1% for the LM. There were strong correlations between automated and manual T2 values (r MM  = 0.95, ICC MM  = 0.94; r LM  = 0.97, ICC LM  = 0.97). For both the manual and the automated methods, T2 values were significantly higher in torn than in non-torn MM for the full meniscus and its subregions (P < .05). Non-torn LM had higher T2 values than non-torn MM (P < .05). The present automated method offers a promising alternative to manual T2 mapping analyses of the menisci and a considerable advance for integration into clinical workflows. Copyright © 2017 The Association of University Radiologists. All rights reserved.

Isotropic three-dimensional T2 mapping of knee cartilage: Development and validation.

PubMed

Colotti, Roberto; Omoumi, Patrick; Bonanno, Gabriele; Ledoux, Jean-Baptiste; van Heeswijk, Ruud B

2018-02-01

1) To implement a higher-resolution isotropic 3D T 2 mapping technique that uses sequential T 2 -prepared segmented gradient-recalled echo (Iso3DGRE) images for knee cartilage evaluation, and 2) to validate it both in vitro and in vivo in healthy volunteers and patients with knee osteoarthritis. The Iso3DGRE sequence with an isotropic 0.6 mm spatial resolution was developed on a clinical 3T MR scanner. Numerical simulations were performed to optimize the pulse sequence parameters. A phantom study was performed to validate the T 2 estimation accuracy. The repeatability of the sequence was assessed in healthy volunteers (n = 7). T 2 values were compared with those from a clinical standard 2D multislice multiecho (MSME) T 2 mapping sequence in knees of healthy volunteers (n = 13) and in patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA, n = 5). The numerical simulations resulted in 100 excitations per segment and an optimal radiofrequency (RF) excitation angle of 15°. The phantom study demonstrated a good correlation of the technique with the reference standard (slope 0.9 ± 0.05, intercept 0.2 ± 1.7 msec, R 2 ≥ 0.99). Repeated measurements of cartilage T 2 values in healthy volunteers showed a coefficient of variation of 5.6%. Both Iso3DGRE and MSME techniques found significantly higher cartilage T 2 values (P < 0.03) in OA patients. Iso3DGRE precision was equal to that of the MSME T 2 mapping in healthy volunteers, and significantly higher in OA (P = 0.01). This study successfully demonstrated that high-resolution isotropic 3D T 2 mapping for knee cartilage characterization is feasible, accurate, repeatable, and precise. The technique allows for multiplanar reformatting and thus T 2 quantification in any plane of interest. 1 Technical Efficacy: Stage 2 J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2018;47:362-371. © 2017 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.

Temperature dependent lattice constant of InSb above room temperature

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Breivik, Magnus; Nilsen, Tron Arne; Fimland, Bjørn-Ove

2013-10-01

Using temperature dependent X-ray diffraction on two InSb single crystalline substrates, the bulk lattice constant of InSb was determined between 32 and 325 °C. A polynomial function was fitted to the data: a(T)=6.4791+3.28×10-5×T+1.02×10-8×T2 Å (T in °C), which gives slightly higher values than previously published (which go up to 62 °C). From the fit, the thermal expansion of InSb was calculated to be α(T)=5.062×10-6+3.15×10-9×T K-1 (T in °C). We found that the thermal expansion coefficient is higher than previously published values above 100 °C (more than 10% higher at 325 °C).

The influence of microvascular injury on native T1 and T2* relaxation values after acute myocardial infarction: implications for non-contrast-enhanced infarct assessment.

PubMed

Robbers, Lourens F H J; Nijveldt, Robin; Beek, Aernout M; Teunissen, Paul F A; Hollander, Maurits R; Biesbroek, P Stefan; Everaars, Henk; van de Ven, Peter M; Hofman, Mark B M; van Royen, Niels; van Rossum, Albert C

2018-02-01

Native T1 mapping and late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) imaging offer detailed characterisation of the myocardium after acute myocardial infarction (AMI). We evaluated the effects of microvascular injury (MVI) and intramyocardial haemorrhage on local T1 and T2* values in patients with a reperfused AMI. Forty-three patients after reperfused AMI underwent cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) at 4 [3-5] days, including native MOLLI T1 and T2* mapping, STIR, cine imaging and LGE. T1 and T2* values were determined in LGE-defined regions of interest: the MI core incorporating MVI when present, the core-adjacent MI border zone (without any areas of MVI), and remote myocardium. Average T1 in the MI core was higher than in the MI border zone and remote myocardium. However, in the 20 (47%) patients with MVI, MI core T1 was lower than in patients without MVI (MVI 1048±78ms, no MVI 1111±89ms, p=0.02). MI core T2* was significantly lower in patients with MVI than in those without (MVI 20 [18-23]ms, no MVI 31 [26-39]ms, p<0.001). The presence of MVI profoundly affects MOLLI-measured native T1 values. T2* mapping suggested that this may be the result of intramyocardial haemorrhage. These findings have important implications for the interpretation of native T1 values shortly after AMI. • Microvascular injury after acute myocardial infarction affects local T1 and T2* values. • Infarct zone T1 values are lower if microvascular injury is present. • T2* mapping suggests that low infarct T1 values are likely haemorrhage. • T1 and T2* values are complimentary for correctly assessing post-infarct myocardium.

T2 relaxation times of the glenohumeral joint at 3.0 T MRI in patients with and without primary and secondary osteoarthritis.

PubMed

Lee, So-Yeon; Park, Hee-Jin; Kwon, Heon-Ju; Kim, Mi Sung; Choi, Seon Hyeong; Choi, Yoon Jung; Kim, Eugene

2015-11-01

Quantitative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of cartilage has recently been applied to patients with osteoarthritis (OA). T2 mapping is a sensitive method of detecting changes in the chemical composition and structure of cartilage. To establish baseline T2 values of glenohumeral joint cartilage at 3.0 T and compare T2 values among subjects with and without OA. The study involved 30 patients (18 women, 12 men; median age, 67 years; age range, 51-78 years) with primary (n = 7) and secondary OA (n = 23) in the glenohumeral joint and 34 subjects without OA (19 women, 15 men; median age, 49 years; age range, 23-63 years). All subjects were evaluated by radiography and 3.0 T MRI including a multi-echo T2-weighted spin echo pulse sequence. The T2 value of the cartilage was measured by manually drawing the region of interest on the T2 map. Per-zone comparison of T2 values was performed using Mann-Whitney U test. Median T2 values differed significantly between subjects without OA (36.00 ms [interquartile range, 33.89-37.31 ms]) and those with primary (37.52 ms [36.84-39.11], P = 0.028), but not secondary (36.87 ms [34.70-41.10], P = 0.160) OA. Glenohumeral cartilage T2 values were higher in different zones between patients with primary and secondary OA than in subjects without OA. These T2 values can be used for comparison to assess cartilage degeneration in patients with shoulder OA. Significant differences in T2 were observed among subjects without OA and those with primary and secondary OA. © The Foundation Acta Radiologica 2014.

A systematic evaluation of three different cardiac T2-mapping sequences at 1.5 and 3T in healthy volunteers.

PubMed

Baeßler, Bettina; Schaarschmidt, Frank; Stehning, Christian; Schnackenburg, Bernhard; Maintz, David; Bunck, Alexander C

2015-11-01

Previous studies showed that myocardial T2 relaxation times measured by cardiac T2-mapping vary significantly depending on sequence and field strength. Therefore, a systematic comparison of different T2-mapping sequences and the establishment of dedicated T2 reference values is mandatory for diagnostic decision-making. Phantom experiments using gel probes with a range of different T1 and T2 times were performed on a clinical 1.5T and 3T scanner. In addition, 30 healthy volunteers were examined at 1.5 and 3T in immediate succession. In each examination, three different T2-mapping sequences were performed at three short-axis slices: Multi Echo Spin Echo (MESE), T2-prepared balanced SSFP (T2prep), and Gradient Spin Echo with and without fat saturation (GraSEFS/GraSE). Segmented T2-Maps were generated according to the AHA 16-segment model and statistical analysis was performed. Significant intra-individual differences between mean T2 times were observed for all sequences. In general, T2prep resulted in lowest and GraSE in highest T2 times. A significant variation with field strength was observed for mean T2 in phantom as well as in vivo, with higher T2 values at 1.5T compared to 3T, regardless of the sequence used. Segmental T2 values for each sequence at 1.5 and 3T are presented. Despite a careful selection of sequence parameters and volunteers, significant variations of the measured T2 values were observed between field strengths, MR sequences and myocardial segments. Therefore, we present segmental T2 values for each sequence at 1.5 and 3T with the inherent potential to serve as reference values for future studies. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

T2 Relaxation Values of the Talar Trochlear Articular Cartilage: Comparison Between Patients With Lateral Instability of the Ankle Joint and Healthy Volunteers.

PubMed

Park, So Yoon; Yoon, Young Cheol; Cha, Jang Gyu; Sung, Ki Sun

2016-01-01

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the difference between the T2 relaxation values of the talar trochlear cartilage in patients with lateral instability of the ankle joint and the values in healthy volunteers. A retrospective assessment was conducted of images from 13 MRI examinations of the ankles of 12 patients who underwent lateral ankle ligament repair with an arthroscopically proven normal talar trochlear cartilage. Thirteen ankle MRI examinations of 12 healthy age- and sex-matched volunteers were prospectively performed. Two radiologists independently measured the T2 relaxation values of the talar trochlear cartilage in two layers (superficial and deep) in the following six compartments: medial anterior (M1), medial middle (M2), medial posterior (M3), lateral anterior (L1), lateral middle (L2), and lateral posterior (L3). The T2 relaxation values of patients were compared with those of healthy volunteers. Both readers found that the mean T2 relaxation values of all six compartments of the superficial layer were significantly higher in patients than in control subjects. For reader 1, the M1 findings were 46.2 for patients and 39.6 for healthy volunteers; M2, 50.4 and 41.1; M3, 52.1 and 46.2; L1, 43.1 and 37.9; L2, 47.8 and 41.8; and L3, 53.8 and 49.8. For reader 2, the M1 findings were 45.0 and 40.2; M2, 48.8 and 41.1; M3, 53.2 and 45.6; L1, 42.8 and 38.5; L2, 48.0 and 42.1; and L3, 55.0 and 49.0 (p < 0.05). For the deep layer, the mean T2 relaxation values of M2 (patients, 32.6; volunteers, 27.8 [p = 0.004]) and M3 (patients, 38.3; volunteers, 35.0 [p = 0.046]) for reader 1 and M2 (patients, 31.6; volunteers, 28.7 [p = 0.041]) for reader 2 were significantly higher in patients than in control subjects. Intraobserver and interobserver variability were excellent, except for interobserver variability for M1 deep (0.79) and L1 deep (0.75). The T2 relaxation values of arthroscopically proven normal talar trochlear cartilage of patients with lateral instability were higher than those of healthy volunteers, especially in the superficial layer and the M2 deep layer.

Resin-dentin bond stability and physical characterization of a two-step self-etching adhesive system associated with TiF4.

PubMed

Torres, Gabriele Barbosa; da Silva, Tânia Mara; Basting, Rosanna Tarkany; Bridi, Enrico Coser; França, Fabiana Mantovani Gomes; Turssi, Cecilia Pedroso; do Amaral, Flávia Lucisano Botelho; de Paiva Gonçalves, Sérgio Eduardo; Basting, Roberta Tarkany

2017-10-01

To evaluate the bond strength to superficial (SD) and deep (DD) dentin after the use of 2.5% (T2.5%) or 4% (T4%) titanium tetrafluoride (TiF 4 ) in aqueous solution as a dentin pretreatment, or when incorporated into the primer (T2.5%P and T4%P) of an adhesive system (Clearfil SE Bond/CL). Degree of conversion (DC), particle size (PS), polydispersity index (PI) and zeta potential (ZP) of the solutions were evaluated. Fifty molars were sectioned longitudinally to obtain two slices of each tooth, which were demarcated into SD and DD. Treatments were applied (n=10): CL; T2.5%; T4%; T2.5%P; T4%P. After 24h or 180days storage, microshear bond strength tests were performed. The DC values of T2.5%P and T4%P were evaluated by FTIR. PS, PI and ZP were measured using dynamic light scattering. Analysis of mixed models showed significant effect of concentration of TiF 4 * solution * storage time (p=0.0075). There were higher bond strength values in SD than in DD (p=0.0105) for all treatments in both times. The failure mode showed adhesive failures in the majority of groups, irrespective of depth and time (p=0.3746). The bond strength values were not affected by treatments. Lower average particle size was observed for T2.5%P and T4%P at baseline. T2.5% and T4% showed a trend towards agglomeration. Higher bond strength values were achieved at SD for all treatments and times. The failure modes observed were adhesive. TiF 4 incorporation did not affect DC. T2.5%P and T4%P presented excellent stability over time. Copyright © 2017 The Academy of Dental Materials. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Quantitative MRI T2 relaxation time evaluation of knee cartilage: comparison of meniscus-intact and -injured knees after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction.

PubMed

Li, Hong; Chen, Shuang; Tao, Hongyue; Chen, Shiyi

2015-04-01

Associated meniscal injury is well recognized at anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction, and it is a known risk factor for osteoarthritis. To evaluate and characterize the postoperative appearance of articular cartilage after different meniscal treatment in ACL-reconstructed knees using T2 relaxation time evaluation on MRI. Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. A total of 62 consecutive patients who under ACL reconstruction were recruited in this study, including 23 patients undergoing partial meniscectomy (MS group), 21 patients undergoing meniscal repair (MR group), and 18 patients with intact menisci (MI group) at time of surgery. Clinical evaluation, including subjective functional scores and physical examination, was performed on the same day as the MRI examination and at follow-up times ranging from 2 to 4.2 years. The MRI multiecho sagittal images were segmented to determine the T2 relaxation time value of each meniscus and articular cartilage plate. Differences in each measurement were compared among groups. No patient had joint-line tenderness or reported pain or clicking on McMurray test or instability. There were also no statistically significant differences in functional scores or medial or lateral meniscus T2 values among the 3 groups (P > .05 for both). There was a significantly higher articular cartilage T2 value in the medial femorotibial articular cartilage for the MS group (P < .01) and the MR group (P < .05) compared with that of the MI group, while there was no significant difference in articular cartilage T2 value between the MS and MR groups (P > .05) in each articular cartilage plate. The medial tibial articular cartilage T2 value had a significant positive correlation with medial meniscus T2 value (r = 0.287; P = .024) CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates that knees with meniscectomy or meniscal repair had articular cartilage degeneration at 2 to 4 years postoperatively, with higher articular cartilage T2 relaxation time values compared with the knees with an intact meniscus. © 2015 The Author(s).

Quantitative T2 Magnetic Resonance Imaging Compared to Morphological Grading of the Early Cervical Intervertebral Disc Degeneration: An Evaluation Approach in Asymptomatic Young Adults

PubMed Central

Han, Zhihua; Shao, Lixin; Xie, Yan; Wu, Jianhong; Zhang, Yan; Xin, Hongkui; Ren, Aijun; Guo, Yong; Wang, Deli; He, Qing; Ruan, Dike

2014-01-01

Objective The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of quantitative T2 magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for quantifying early cervical intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration in asymptomatic young adults by correlating the T2 value with Pfirrmann grade, sex, and anatomic level. Methods Seventy asymptomatic young subjects (34 men and 36 women; mean age, 22.80±2.11 yr; range, 18–25 years) underwent 3.0-T MRI to obtain morphological data (one T1-fast spin echo (FSE) and three-plane T2-FSE, used to assign a Pfirrmann grade (I–V)) and for T2 mapping (multi-echo spin echo). T2 values in the nucleus pulposus (NP, n = 350) and anulus fibrosus (AF, n = 700) were obtained. Differences in T2 values between sexes and anatomic level were evaluated, and linear correlation analysis of T2 values versus degenerative grade was conducted. Findings Cervical IVDs of healthy young adults were commonly determined to be at Pfirrmann grades I and II. T2 values of NPs were significantly higher than those of AF at all anatomic levels (P<0.000). The NP, anterior AF and posterior AF values did not differ significantly between genders at the same anatomic level (P>0.05). T2 values decreased linearly with degenerative grade. Linear correlation analysis revealed a strong negative association between the Pfirrmann grade and the T2 values of the NP (P = 0.000) but not the T2 values of the AF (P = 0.854). However, non-degenerated discs (Pfirrmann grades I and II) showed a wide range of T2 relaxation time. T2 values according to disc degeneration level classification were as follows: grade I (>62.03 ms), grade II (54.60–62.03 ms), grade III (<54.60 ms). Conclusions T2 quantitation provides a more sensitive and robust approach for detecting and characterizing the early stage of cervical IVD degeneration and to create a reliable quantitative in healthy young adults. PMID:24498384

Quantitative T2 magnetic resonance imaging compared to morphological grading of the early cervical intervertebral disc degeneration: an evaluation approach in asymptomatic young adults.

PubMed

Chen, Chun; Huang, Minghua; Han, Zhihua; Shao, Lixin; Xie, Yan; Wu, Jianhong; Zhang, Yan; Xin, Hongkui; Ren, Aijun; Guo, Yong; Wang, Deli; He, Qing; Ruan, Dike

2014-01-01

The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of quantitative T2 magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for quantifying early cervical intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration in asymptomatic young adults by correlating the T2 value with Pfirrmann grade, sex, and anatomic level. Seventy asymptomatic young subjects (34 men and 36 women; mean age, 22.80±2.11 yr; range, 18-25 years) underwent 3.0-T MRI to obtain morphological data (one T1-fast spin echo (FSE) and three-plane T2-FSE, used to assign a Pfirrmann grade (I-V)) and for T2 mapping (multi-echo spin echo). T2 values in the nucleus pulposus (NP, n = 350) and anulus fibrosus (AF, n = 700) were obtained. Differences in T2 values between sexes and anatomic level were evaluated, and linear correlation analysis of T2 values versus degenerative grade was conducted. Cervical IVDs of healthy young adults were commonly determined to be at Pfirrmann grades I and II. T2 values of NPs were significantly higher than those of AF at all anatomic levels (P<0.000). The NP, anterior AF and posterior AF values did not differ significantly between genders at the same anatomic level (P>0.05). T2 values decreased linearly with degenerative grade. Linear correlation analysis revealed a strong negative association between the Pfirrmann grade and the T2 values of the NP (P = 0.000) but not the T2 values of the AF (P = 0.854). However, non-degenerated discs (Pfirrmann grades I and II) showed a wide range of T2 relaxation time. T2 values according to disc degeneration level classification were as follows: grade I (>62.03 ms), grade II (54.60-62.03 ms), grade III (<54.60 ms). T2 quantitation provides a more sensitive and robust approach for detecting and characterizing the early stage of cervical IVD degeneration and to create a reliable quantitative in healthy young adults.

A Reference Database of Cartilage 3 Tesla MRI T2 Values in Knees without Diagnostic Evidence of Cartilage Degeneration: Data from the Osteoarthritis Initiative

PubMed Central

Joseph, Gabby B.; McCulloch, Charles E.; Nevitt, Michael C.; Heilmeier, Ursula; Nardo, Lorenzo; Lynch, John A.; Liu, Felix; Baum, Thomas; Link, Thomas M.

2015-01-01

Objective The purpose of this study was 1) to establish a gender- and BMI-specific reference database of cartilage T2 values, and 2) to assess the associations between cartilage T2 values and gender, age, and BMI in knees without radiographic osteoarthritis or MRI-based (WORMS 0/1) evidence of cartilage degeneration. Design 481 subjects between the ages of 45-65 years with Kellgren-Lawrence Scores 0/1 in the study knee were selected from the Osteoarthritis Initiative database. Baseline morphologic cartilage 3T MRI readings (WORMS scoring) and T2 measurements (resolution=0.313mmx0.446mm) were performed in the medial femur, lateral femur, medial tibia, lateral tibia, and patella compartments. In order to create a reference database, a logarithmic transformation was applied to the data to obtain the 5th-95th percentile values for T2. Results Significant differences in mean cartilage T2 values were observed between joint compartments. Although females had slightly higher T2 values than males in a majority of compartments, the differences were only significant in the medial femur (p<0.0001). A weak positive association was seen between age and T2 in all compartments, and was most pronounced in the patella (3.27% increase in median T2/10 years, p=0.009). Significant associations between BMI and T2 were observed, and were most pronounced in the lateral tibia (5.33% increase in median T2/5 kg/m2 increase in BMI, p<0.0001), and medial tibia (4.81% increase in median T2 /5 kg/m2 increase in BMI, p<0.0001). Conclusions This study established the first reference database of T2 values in a large sample of morphologically normal cartilage plates in knees without radiographic knee osteoarthritis. While cartilage T2 values were weakly associated with age and gender, they had the highest correlations with BMI. PMID:25680652

The Relationship between Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Measured by Controlled Attenuation Parameter.

PubMed

Chon, Young Eun; Kim, Kwang Joon; Jung, Kyu Sik; Kim, Seung Up; Park, Jun Yong; Kim, Do Young; Ahn, Sang Hoon; Chon, Chae Yoon; Chung, Jae Bock; Park, Kyeong Hye; Bae, Ji Cheol; Han, Kwang Hyub

2016-07-01

The severity of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) population compared with that in normal glucose tolerance (NGT) individuals has not yet been quantitatively assessed. We investigated the prevalence and the severity of NAFLD in a T2DM population using controlled attenuation parameter (CAP). Subjects who underwent testing for biomarkers related to T2DM and CAP using Fibroscan® during a regular health check-up were enrolled. CAP values of 250 dB/m and 300 dB/m were selected as the cutoffs for the presence of NAFLD and for moderate to severe NAFLD, respectively. Biomarkers related to T2DM included fasting glucose/insulin, fasting C-peptide, hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), glycoalbumin, and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR). Among 340 study participants (T2DM, n=66; pre-diabetes, n=202; NGT, n=72), the proportion of subjects with NAFLD increased according to the glucose tolerance status (31.9% in NGT; 47.0% in pre-diabetes; 57.6% in T2DM). The median CAP value was significantly higher in subjects with T2DM (265 dB/m) than in those with pre-diabetes (245 dB/m) or NGT (231 dB/m) (all p<0.05). Logistic regression analysis showed that subjects with moderate to severe NAFLD had a 2.8-fold (odds ratio) higher risk of having T2DM than those without NAFLD (p=0.02; 95% confidence interval, 1.21-6.64), and positive correlations between the CAP value and HOMA-IR (ρ0.407) or fasting C-peptide (ρ0.402) were demonstrated. Subjects with T2DM had a higher prevalence of severe NAFLD than those with NGT. Increased hepatic steatosis was significantly associated with the presence of T2DM, and insulin resistance induced by hepatic fat may be an important mechanistic connection.

Biochemical evaluation of articular cartilage in patients with osteochondrosis dissecans by means of quantitative T2- and T2-mapping at 3T MRI: a feasibility study.

PubMed

Marik, W; Apprich, S; Welsch, G H; Mamisch, T C; Trattnig, S

2012-05-01

To perform an in vivo evaluation comparing overlying articular cartilage in patients suffering from osteochondrosis dissecans (OCD) in the talocrural joint and healthy volunteers using quantitative T2 mapping at 3.0 T. Ten patients with OCD of Grade II or lower and 9 healthy age matched volunteers were examined at a 3.0 T whole body MR scanner using a flexible multi-element coil. In all investigated persons MRI included proton-density (PD)-FSE and 3D GRE (TrueFisp) sequences for morphological diagnosis and location of anatomical site and quantitative T2 and T2 maps. Region of interest (ROI) analysis was performed for the cartilage layer above the OCD and for a morphologically healthy graded cartilage layer. Mean T2 and T2 values were then statistically analysed. The cartilage layer of healthy volunteers showed mean T2 and T2 values of 29.4 ms (SD 4.9) and 11.8 ms (SD 2.7), respectively. In patients with OCD of grade I and II lesions mean T2 values were 40.9 ms (SD 6.6), 48.7 ms (SD 11.2) and mean T2 values were 16.1 ms (SD 3.2), 16.2 ms (SD 4.8). Therefore statistically significantly higher mean T2 and T2 values were found in patients suffering from OCD compared to healthy volunteers. T2 and T2 mapping can help assess the microstructural composition of cartilage overlying osteochondral lesions. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Delayed gadolinium-enhanced MRI of cartilage and T2 mapping for evaluation of reparative cartilage-like tissue after autologous chondrocyte implantation associated with Atelocollagen-based scaffold in the knee.

PubMed

Tadenuma, Taku; Uchio, Yuji; Kumahashi, Nobuyuki; Fukuba, Eiji; Kitagaki, Hajime; Iwasa, Junji; Ochi, Mitsuo

2016-10-01

To elucidate the quality of tissue-engineered cartilage after an autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI) technique with Atelocollagen gel as a scaffold in the knee in the short- to midterm postoperatively, we assessed delayed gadolinium-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of cartilage (dGEMRIC) and T2 mapping and clarified the relationship between T1 and T2 values and clinical results. In this cross-sectional study, T1 and T2 mapping were performed on 11 knees of 8 patients (mean age at ACI, 37.2 years) with a 3.0-T MRI scanner. T1implant and T2implant values were compared with those of the control cartilage region (T1control and T2control). Lysholm scores were also assessed for clinical evaluation. The relationships between the T1 and T2 values and the clinical Lysholm score were also assessed. There were no significant differences in the T1 values between the T1implant (386.64 ± 101.78 ms) and T1control (375.82 ± 62.89 ms) at the final follow-up. The implants showed significantly longer T2 values compared to the control cartilage (53.83 ± 13.89 vs. 38.21 ± 4.43 ms). The postoperative Lysholm scores were significantly higher than the preoperative scores. A significant correlation was observed between T1implant and clinical outcomes, but not between T2implant and clinical outcomes. Third-generation ACI implants might have obtained an almost equivalent glycosaminoglycan concentration compared to the normal cartilage, but they had lower collagen density at least 3 years after transplantation. The T1implant value, but not the T2 value, might be a predictor of clinical outcome after ACI.

Evaluation of [¹⁸F]PFH PET renography to predict future disease progression in a rat model of autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease.

PubMed

Pathuri, Gopal; Hedrick, Andria F; Awasthi, Vibhudutta; Cowley, Benjamin D; Gali, Hariprasad

2016-01-01

Prognostic markers for progression of polycystic kidney disease (PKD) are limited. We evaluated the potential of early para-[(18)F]fluorohippurate ([(18)F]PFH) positron emission tomography (PET) renography to predict future progression of PKD in Han:SPRD rats with slowly progressive autosomal dominant PKD. Male and female heterozygous (Cy/+) and normal littermate (+/+) Han:SPRD rats underwent [(18)F]PFH PET renography and blood sampling to measure serum creatinine (S-Cr) and serum urea nitrogen (SUN) concentrations at 6 and 26 wk of age. T2 and T20 values, which represent the percent of the injected dose of [(18)F]PFH in kidneys at 2 and 20 min after injection, were determined from imaging data. T20/T2 ratio was assessed as a prognostic marker. Rats were euthanized after renography at 26 wk of age, and kidney weight/body weight ratios (KW/BW%) were determined as a measure of PKD progression. Male and female Cy/+ rats are known to manifest PKD of different severity, male Cy/+ rats display much more severe PKD than female rats. S-Cr and SUN concentrations did not differ between +/+ and Cy/+ rats and between female and male Cy/+ rats at 6 wk of age, but they were higher at 26 wk of age and male rats displayed higher values than female rats, which indicates inability of S-Cr and SUN to measure disease severity at an early stage. T20/T2 ratios were higher for Cy/+ than +/+ rats at 6 wk of age. Importantly, male Cy/+ rats displayed higher T20/T2 ratios than female Cy/+ rats. T20/T2 ratios obtained at 6 wk of age correlated well with S-Cr, SUN, and KW/BW% values obtained at 26 wk of age. This study indicates that T20/T2 ratio derived from [(18)F]PFH PET renography at an early age could be useful as a novel prognostic marker to predict future disease severity in a rat model of ADPKD. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Serum Human Epidermal Growth Factor 2 Extracellular Domain as a Predictive Biomarker for Lapatinib Treatment Efficacy in Patients With Advanced Breast Cancer.

PubMed

Lee, Chee Khoon; Davies, Lucy; Gebski, Val J; Lord, Sarah J; Di Leo, Angelo; Johnston, Stephen; Geyer, Charles; Cameron, David; Press, Michael F; Ellis, Catherine; Loi, Sherene; Marschner, Ian; Simes, John; de Souza, Paul

2016-03-20

We examined the prognostic and predictive value of serum human epidermal growth factor 2 (HER2) extracellular domain (sHER2) in patients with advanced breast cancer treated with lapatinib using data from three randomized trials. We analyzed sHER2 and tissue HER2 (tHER2) data from 1,902 patients (84%) who were randomly assigned to receive lapatinib or control in the trials EGF30001, EGF30008, and EGF100151. Cox regression analyses were performed to correlate both biomarkers with progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). Median sHER2 levels were 25.1 and 10.1 ng/mL in tHER2-amplified (tHER-positive) and nonamplified (tHER-negative) populations, respectively (r = 0.42 for sHER2-tHER2 correlation). Lapatinib had significant PFS benefit over control (hazard ratio [HR], 0.855; P = .004), but not OS (HR, 0.941; P = .33). Lapatinib PFS benefit is independently predicted by higher sHER2 values (HR per 10-ng/mL increase in sHER2: lapatinib-containing therapies, 1.009 v nonlapatinib-containing therapies, 1.044; P(interaction) < .001) and by positive tHER2 (HR [lapatinib v nonlapatinib]: tHER2 positive, 0.638 v tHER2 negative, 0.940; P(interaction) = .001). Within the tHER2-positive subpopulation (n = 515), higher sHER2 values still independently predicted lapatinib PFS benefit (HR per 10-ng/mL increase in sHER2: lapatinib-containing therapies, 1.017 v nonlapatinib-containing therapies, 1.041; P(interaction) = .008). In control arms (n = 936), higher sHER2 was associated with worse prognosis in multivariable analyses (PFS HR per 10 ng/mL: PFS, 1.024; P < .001; and OS, 1.018; P < .001). Higher sHER2 predicts greater PFS benefit with lapatinib independent of tHER2 status. High sHER2 is also independently prognostic for worse survival in patients who received nonlapatinib-containing therapies. The predictive role of sHER2 for other anti-HER2 agents requires further research. © 2016 by American Society of Clinical Oncology.

S-Shaped Suppression of the Superconducting Transition Temperature in Cu-Intercalated NbSe 2

DOE PAGES

Luo, Huixia; Strychalska-Nowak, Judyta; Li, Jun; ...

2017-03-21

2H-NbSe 2 is the prototype and most frequently studied of the well-known transition metal dichalcogenide (TMDC) superconductors. As 2H-NbSe 2 is widely acknowledged as a conventional superconductor, its transition temperature to the superconducting state (T c) is 7.3 K, a T c that is substantially higher than those seen for the majority of TMDCs, where Tc values between 2 and 4 K are the norm. We report the intercalation of Cu into 2H-NbSe 2 to make Cu xNbSe 2. As is typically found when chemically altering an optimal superconductor, T c decreases with an increase in x, but the waymore » that Tc is suppressed in this case is unusual: an S-shaped character is observed, with an inflection point near x = 0.03 and, at higher x values, a leveling off of the T c near 3 K, down to the usual value for a layered TMDC. Electronic characterization reveals corresponding S-like behavior for many of the parameters of the materials that influence T c. In order to illustrate its character, the superconducting phase diagram for Cu xNbSe 2 is contrasted with those of FexNbSe 2 and NbSe 2–xS x.« less

Predictive value of Tokuhashi scoring systems in spinal metastases, focusing on various primary tumor groups: evaluation of 448 patients in the Aarhus spinal metastases database.

PubMed

Wang, Miao; Bünger, Cody Eric; Li, Haisheng; Wu, Chunsen; Høy, Kristian; Niedermann, Bent; Helmig, Peter; Wang, Yu; Jensen, Anders Bonde; Schättiger, Katrin; Hansen, Ebbe Stender

2012-04-01

We conducted a prospective cohort study of 448 patients with spinal metastases from a variety of cancer groups. To determine the specific predictive value of the Tokuhashi scoring system (T12) and its revised version (T15) in spinal metastases of various primary tumors. The life expectancy of patients with spinal metastases is one of the most important factors in selecting the treatment modality. Tokuhashi et al formulated a prognostic scoring system with a total sum of 12 points for preoperative prediction of life expectancy in 1990 and revised it in 2005 to a total sum of 15 points. There is a lack of knowledge about the specific predictive value of those scoring systems in patients with spinal metastases from a variety of cancer groups. We included 448 patients with vertebral metastases who underwent surgical treatment during November 1992 to November 2009 in Aarhus University Hospital NBG. Data were retrieved from Aarhus Metastases Database. Scores based on T12 and T15 were calculated prospectively for each patient. We divided all the patients into different groups dictated by the site of their primary tumor. Predictive value and accuracy rate of the 2 scoring systems were compared in each cancer group. Both the T12 and T15 scoring systems showed statistically significant predictive value when the 448 patients were analyzed in total (T12, P < 0.0001; T15, P < 0.0001). The accuracy rate was significantly higher in T15 (P < 0.0001) than in T12. The further analyses by primary cancer groups showed that the predictive value of T12 and T15 was primarily determined by the prostate (P = 0.0003) and breast group (P = 0.0385). Only T12 displayed predictive value in the colon group (P = 0.0011). Neither of the scoring systems showed significant predictive value in the lung (P > 0.05), renal (P > 0.05), or miscellaneous primary tumor groups (P > 0.05). The accuracy rate of prognosis in T15 was significantly improved in the prostate (P = 0.0032) and breast group (P < 0.0001). Both T12 and T15 showed significant predictive value in patients with spinal metastases. T15 has a statistically higher accuracy rate than T12. Among the various cancer groups, the 2 scoring systems are especially reliable in prostate and breast metastases groups. T15 is recommended as superior to T12 because of its higher accuracy rate.

MR relaxometry for the facial ageing assessment: the preliminary study of the age dependency in the MR relaxometry parameters within the facial soft tissue.

PubMed

Watanabe, M; Buch, K; Fujita, A; Christiansen, C L; Jara, H; Sakai, O

2015-01-01

To investigate the location-specific tissue properties and age-related changes of the facial fat and facial muscles using quantitative MRI (qMRI) analysis of longitudinal magnetization (T1) and transverse magnetization (T2) values. 38 subjects (20 males and 18 females, 0.5-87 years old) were imaged with a mixed turbo-spin echo sequence at 1.5 T. T1 and T2 measurements were obtained within regions of interest in six facial fat regions including the buccal fat and subcutaneous cheek fat, four eyelid fat regions (lateral upper, medial upper, lateral lower and medial lower) and five facial muscles including the orbicularis oculi, orbicularis oris, buccinator, zygomaticus major and masseter muscles bilaterally. Within the zygomaticus major muscle, age-associated T1 decreases in females and T1 increases in males were observed in later life with an increase in T2 values with age. The orbicularis oculi muscles showed lower T1 and higher T2 values compared to the masseter, orbicularis oris and buccinator muscles, which demonstrated small age-related changes. The dramatic age-related changes were also observed in the eyelid fat regions, particularly within the lower eyelid fat; negative correlations with age in T1 values (p<0.0001 for age) and prominent positive correlation in T2 values in male subjects (p<0.0001 for male×age). Age-related changes were not observed in T2 values within the subcutaneous cheek fat. This study demonstrates proof of concept using T1 and T2 values to assess age-related changes of the facial soft tissues, demonstrating tissue-specific qMRI measurements and non-uniform ageing patterns within different regions of facial soft tissues.

Liver enzyme levels and hepatic iron content in Fatty liver: a noninvasive assessment in general population by T2* mapping.

PubMed

Radmard, Amir Reza; Poustchi, Hossein; Dadgostar, Mehrdad; Yoonessi, Ali; Kooraki, Soheil; Jafari, Elham; Hashemi Taheri, Amir Pejman; Malekzadeh, Reza; Merat, Shahin

2015-06-01

Existing evidence suggests potential contribution of iron in pathogenesis of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). We aimed to investigate whether hepatic iron content correlates with liver enzyme levels in NAFLD using a noninvasive magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technique. Subjects from Golestan Cohort Study were randomly selected. Diagnosis of NAFLD was made by combination of ultrasound and MRI. Subjects with NAFLD were divided into two groups with high (H-NAFLD) and low (L-NAFLD) enzyme level according to 95th percentile of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) value in normal population. Quantitative T2* maps of entire cross-sectional area of liver were calculated on pixel-by-pixel basis using a semiautomated software. A total of 207 subjects were enrolled. Mean T2* values were significantly lower in NAFLD group than controls (P < .001) indicating higher iron content. Male subjects with H-NAFLD had statistically lower T2* values than those with L-NAFLD in multivariate analysis (odds ratio, 0.74; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.58-0.95), whereas this was not observed in women. Unlike women, there was significant negative correlation between ALT levels and T2* values in men with H-NAFLD (r = -0.66, P = .01). Every 1-millisecond decrement in T2* value was associated with 6.37 IU/L increase in ALT level (95% CI, 1.8-10.9, P = .01) in men with H-NAFLD. Higher hepatic iron in men with H-NAFLD, estimated by T2* mapping, may support the role of iron in possible progression of simple steatosis to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. Lack of such correlation in women could be attributed to relatively lower iron storage or other mechanisms rather than iron. Copyright © 2015 AUR. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Association of depressive symptomology and psychological trauma with diabetes control among older American Indian women: Does social support matter?

PubMed Central

Noonan, Carolyn; Gonzales, Kelly; Winchester, Blythe; Bradley, Vickie L.

2017-01-01

Aims Among older American Indian women with type 2 diabetes (T2DM), we examined the association between mental health and T2DM control and if social support modifies the association. Methods Survey data were linked to T2DM medical record information. Mental health measures were the Center for Epidemiologic Studies – Depression Scale and the National Anxiety Disorders Screening Day instrument. T2DM control was all HbA1c values taken post mental health measures. Results There was not a significant association between depressive symptomatology and higher HbA1c although increased depressive symptomatology was associated with higher HbA1c values among participants with low social support. There was a significant association between psychological trauma and higher HbA1c values 12 months [mean 7.5, 95% CI 7.0–8.0 for no trauma vs. mean 7.0, 95% CI 6.3–7.6 for trauma with no symptoms vs. mean 8.4, 95% CI 7.7–9.1 for trauma with =1 symptom(s)] and 6 months later [mean 7.2, 95% CI 6.7–7.7 for no trauma vs. mean HbA1c 6.8, 95% CI 6.2–7.4 for trauma with no symptoms vs. mean 8.4, 95% CI 7.6–9.2 for trauma with ≥1 symptom(s)]. High social support attenuated the association between psychological trauma and HbA1c values. Conclusions T2DM programs may consider activities that would strengthen participants’ social support and thereby building on an intrinsic community strength. PMID:28161383

Association of depressive symptomology and psychological trauma with diabetes control among older American Indian women: Does social support matter?

PubMed

Goins, R Turner; Noonan, Carolyn; Gonzales, Kelly; Winchester, Blythe; Bradley, Vickie L

2017-04-01

Among older American Indian women with type 2 diabetes (T2DM), we examined the association between mental health and T2DM control and if social support modifies the association. Survey data were linked to T2DM medical record information. Mental health measures were the Center for Epidemiologic Studies - Depression Scale and the National Anxiety Disorders Screening Day instrument. T2DM control was all HbA1c values taken post mental health measures. There was not a significant association between depressive symptomatology and higher HbA1c although increased depressive symptomatology was associated with higher HbA1c values among participants with low social support. There was a significant association between psychological trauma and higher HbA1c values 12months [mean 7.5, 95% CI 7.0-8.0 for no trauma vs. mean 7.0, 95% CI 6.3-7.6 for trauma with no symptoms vs. mean 8.4, 95% CI 7.7-9.1 for trauma with ≥1 symptom(s)] and 6months later [mean 7.2, 95% CI 6.7-7.7 for no trauma vs. mean HbA1c 6.8, 95% CI 6.2-7.4 for trauma with no symptoms vs. mean 8.4, 95% CI 7.6-9.2 for trauma with ≥1 symptom(s)]. High social support attenuated the association between psychological trauma and HbA1c values. T2DM programs may consider activities that would strengthen participants' social support and thereby building on an intrinsic community strength. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Economic Value of Greater Access to Bariatric Procedures for Patients With Severe Obesity and Diabetes.

PubMed

Kim, David D; Arterburn, David E; Sullivan, Sean D; Basu, Anirban

2018-05-12

Designing optimal insurance is important to ensure access to care for individuals that are most likely to benefit. We examined the potential impact of lowering patient cost-sharing for bariatric procedures. After defining 10 subgroups by body mass index (BMI) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), we analyzed the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey datasets to estimate the prevalence of each subgroup. The MarketScan claims database provided utilization rates and costs of bariatric procedures. Using an existing cost-effectiveness model, we estimated the economic value of bariatric procedures under various cost-sharing levels (0%-25%) with 2 frameworks: (1) a traditional cost-effectiveness analysis and (2) a new approach that incorporates utilization effects across subgroups. The utilization rate was higher among individuals with T2DM than those without T2DM (90.4 vs. 59.1 cases per 100,000) for bariatric procedures, which were more cost-effective for those with T2DM and a higher BMI. After accounting for utilization effects, the economic value of bariatric surgery was $177 and $63 per individual from a lifetime and a 5-year time horizon, respectively. Under no patient cost-sharing for individuals with BMI≥40 and T2DM, utilization rates were expected to increase by 21 cases per 100,000, resulting in additional $2 realized value per patient and $7.07 million in returns at the US population level. Cost-sharing is a barrier to uptake of a clinical and cost-effective treatment for severe obesity. Reducing cost-sharing for patients with severe obesity and T2DM could potentially increase the utilization of bariatric procedures and result in greater economic value to payers.

Bilateral cartilage T2 mapping 9 years after Mega-OATS implantation at the knee: a quantitative 3T MRI study.

PubMed

Jungmann, P M; Brucker, P U; Baum, T; Link, T M; Foerschner, F; Minzlaff, P; Banke, I J; Saier, T; Imhoff, A B; Rummeny, E J; Bauer, J S

2015-12-01

To evaluate morphological and quantitative MR findings 9 years after autograft transfer of the posterior femoral condyle (Mega-OATS) and to correlate these findings with clinical outcomes. Quantitative MR measurements were also obtained of the contralateral knee and the utility as reference standard was investigated. Both knees of 20 patients with Mega-OATS osteochondral repair at the medial femoral condyle (MFC) were studied using 3T MRI 9 years after the procedure. MR-sequences included morphological sequences and a 2D multislice multiecho (MSME) spin echo (SE) sequence for quantitative cartilage T2 mapping. Cartilage segmentation was performed at the cartilage repair site and six additional knee compartments. Semi-quantitative MR observation of cartilage repair tissue (MOCART) scores and clinical Lysholm scores were obtained. Paired t-tests and Spearman correlations were used for statistical analysis. Global T2-values were significantly higher at ipsilateral knees compared to contralateral knees (42.1 ± 3.0 ms vs 40.4 ± 2.6 ms, P = 0.018). T2-values of the Mega-OATS site correlated significantly with MOCART scores (R = -0.64, P = 0.006). The correlations between MOCART and Lysholm scores and between absolute T2-values and Lysholm scores were not significant (P > 0.05). However, higher T2 side-to-side differences at the femoral condyles correlated significantly with more severe clinical symptoms (medial, R = -0.53, P = 0.030; lateral, R = -0.51, P = 0.038). Despite long-term survival, 9 years after Mega-OATS procedures, T2-values of the grafts were increased compared to contralateral knees. Clinical scores correlated best with T2 side-to-side differences of the femoral condyles, indicating that intraindividual adjustment may be beneficial for outcome evaluation. Copyright © 2015 Osteoarthritis Research Society International. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

[Protective effects of sulforaphane on the oxidative damage of kidney mitochondria complex in obese rats induced by high-fat diet].

PubMed

Xue, Hongfeng; Li, Yajie; Liang, Bing; Wang, Shuran

2014-11-01

To realize the oxidative damage of kidney mitochondrial complex in obese rats induced by high-fat diet and investigate the protective effects of sulforaphane against the damage. Eighty-eight adult male SD rats were used, after 1 week adaptability feeding, 8 rats were selected as control group and given low-fat diet. The other 80 rats were given high-fat diet. After 2 weeks, the 32 diet-induced obesity models were choosen whose weight gain was higher than 40%. The 32 rats were randomly divided into 4 groups, i.e. high fat group, high fat+sulforaphane low dose group, high fat+sulforaphane middle dose group and high fat+sulforaphane high dose group. The rats in the sulforaphane low, middle and high dose groups were orally administered with sulforaphane 5, 10 and 20 mg/kg, all the 4 groups were kept feeding high-fat diet for 5 weeks. All rats were sacrificed and their kidneys were removed to assay the index of oxidative damages. The content of ROS (0.26 ± 0.04) and MDA((0.87 ± 0.05) U/mg) in the hight-fat group were significantly higher than those in the control group((0.20 ± 0.02),(0.57 ± 0.08) U/mg)(t values were -3.02 and -4.72, P < 0.05). The activity of T-AOC((0.43 ± 0.04) U/mg) and MMP (12.09 ± 1.56) were lower than the control group ((0.48 ± 0.04 U/mg, (16.08 ± 3.12) )(t values were 2.06 and 2.28, P < 0.05). Gavage intervention with sulforaphane, the MDA amount ((0.67 ± 0.05), (0.55 ± 0.05), (0.56 ± 0.07) U/mg) in the sulforaphane low, middle and high dose groups were lower than the hight-fat group ((0.87 ± 0.05) U/mg (t values were 3.65, 5.71 and 5.60. P < 0.05). The activity of T-AOC ((0.49 ± 0.05), (0.55 ± 0.05), (0.54 ± 0.04) U/mg), T-SOD ((61.07 ± 2.79), (55.95 ± 2.39), (60.26 ± 6.02) U/mg) and the level of MMP ((17.17 ± 2.52), (18.24 ± 2.54), (18.21 ± 3.65)) were higher than in the high-fat group ((0.43 ± 0.04) U/mg,(47.22 ± 2.43) U/mg,(12.09 ± 1.56)) (tT-AOC values were -2.36, -4.83 and -4.30; tT-SOD values were -6.37, -4.71 and -5.99; tMMP values were -2.90, -3.52 and -3.50, P < 0.05). The activity of GSH-Px in the sulforaphane low and middle dose groups ((69.12 ± 8.63), (64.43 ± 6.58) U/mg) were higher than those in the high-fat group((53.03 ± 5.70) U/mg)(t values were -3.82 and -2.71, P < 0.05). But there were no significant difference between the high dose group ((60.02 ± 7.05) U/mg) and the high-fat group (t = -1.66, P > 0.05). High-fat diet can induce the mitochondrial oxidative dysfunction in kidney, and sulforaphane shows protective effect on the kidney mitochondrial complex from oxidative damage in obese rats induced by high-fat diet.

Comparison of clinical and biochemical variables in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients and their first-degree relatives with metabolic syndrome in Benin City, Nigeria: A cross sectional case controlled study.

PubMed

Ogedengbe, S; Ezeani, I U; Aihanuwa, E

2016-01-01

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is characterized by a relative insulin deficiency or insulin resistance. It is also associated with a cluster of metabolic abnormalities, including hyper-tension and dyslipidemia. Although there are many studies that have studied the metabolic abnormalities in T2DM patients with metabolic syndrome (MetS), only few of them have assessed the metabolic abnormalities in their first-degree relatives (FDRs) who had MetS. The aim of this study is to compare the clinical and biochemical variables in T2DM subjects and their FDRs without diabetes in Benin City, Nigeria. This is a cross sectional case control study including 124 T2DM patients, 96 FDR of T2DM subjects, and 96 controls recruited using convenience sampling. Data were collected using a questionnaire-administered technique. Variables of interest that were assessed included anthropometric indices like waist circumference (WC), hip circumference (HC), waist:hip ratio (WHR), body mass index (BMI), systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), serum lipid profile, fasting plasma glucose (FPG), hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), proteinuria, and microalbuminuria. The 1999 World Health Organization (WHO) criteria were used to make a diagnosis of metabolic syndrome. The Chi-square test was used for comparison of proportions. P-value of less than 0.05 was taken as statistically significant. The student t-test was used to compare means and test for significant differences in the anthropometric and the metabolic indices. The prevalence of the MetS in T2DM persons was 87.1%, 16.7% in the FDR group, and 13.5% in the control group according to the WHO criteria. The mean value of HbA1c was significantly higher in T2DM subjects with MetS (p<0.05). The mean values of WC, FPG, total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and LDL cholesterol were higher in subjects with MetS in the T2DM group than in persons with MetS in the FDR group though not significant (p>0.05). The mean values of WHR, BMI, SBP, DBP, and triglyceride were higher in persons with the MetS in the FDR group than in persons with the MetS in the T2DM group. The difference in the BMI and SBP was significant (p<0.05). The prevalence of MetS in subjects with T2DM in Nigeria is very high. Though, all the biochemical and clinical indices were higher in T2DM subjects with MetS, the mean HbA1c, BMI, and SBP was significantly higher when compared to their FDR who also have MetS.

Evaluation of the Talar Cartilage in Chronic Lateral Ankle Instability with Lateral Ligament Injury Using Biochemical T2* Mapping: Correlation with Clinical Symptoms.

PubMed

Hu, Yiwen; Tao, Hongyue; Qiao, Yang; Ma, Kui; Hua, Yinghui; Yan, Xu; Chen, Shuang

2018-06-19

This study aims to quantitatively compare T2* measurements of the talar cartilage between chronic lateral ankle instability (LAI) patients with lateral ligament injury and healthy volunteers, and to assess the association of T2* value with American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score. Nineteen consecutive patients with chronic LAI (LAI group) and 19 healthy individuals (control group) were enrolled. Biochemical magnetic resonance examination of the ankle was performed in all participants using three-dimensional gradient-echo T2* mapping. Total talar cartilage was divided into six subcompartments, including medial anterior (MA), central medial, medial posterior, lateral anterior, central lateral (LC), and lateral posterior regions. T2* values of respective cartilage areas were measured and compared between the two groups using Student t test. AOFAS scoring was performed for clinical evaluation. Then, the association of T2* value with AOFAS score was evaluated by Pearson correlation. The T2* values of total talar cartilage, as well as MA and LC cartilage compartments, in the chronic LAI group were significantly higher than control values (P <.001, P = .039, and P = .014, respectively). Furthermore, the T2* value of MA in the chronic LAI group was negatively correlated with AOFAS score (r =-0.8089, P <.001). Chronic LAI with lateral ligament injury may have a causal connection with early cartilage degeneration in the ankle joint, especially in MA and LC cartilage compartments, as assessed by quantitative T2* measurements. The clinical score correlates highly with T2* value of the MA cartilage compartment, indicating that MA may be the principal cartilage area conferring clinical symptoms. Copyright © 2018 The Association of University Radiologists. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Diffusion-weighted MR imaging of the pancreas: optimizing b-value for visualization of pancreatic adenocarcinoma.

PubMed

Fukukura, Yoshihiko; Shindo, Toshikazu; Hakamada, Hiroto; Takumi, Koji; Umanodan, Tomokazu; Nakajo, Masanori; Kamimura, Kiyoshisa; Umanodan, Aya; Ideue, Junnichi; Yoshiura, Takashi

2016-10-01

To determine the optimal b-value of 3.0-T diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) for visualizing pancreatic adenocarcinomas Fifty-five patients with histologically confirmed pancreatic adenocarcinoma underwent DWI with different b-values (b = 500, 1000, 1500, and 2000 s/mm(2)) at 3.0 T. For each b-value, we retrospectively evaluated DWI findings of pancreatic adenocarcinomas (clear hyperintensity relative to the surrounding pancreas, hyperintensity with an unclear distal border, and isointensity) and image quality, and measured tumour-to-pancreas signal intensity (SI) ratios. DWI findings, image quality, and tumour-to-pancreas SI ratios were compared between the four b-values. There was a significantly higher incidence of tumours showing clear hyperintensity on DWI with b-value of 1500 s/mm(2) than on that with b-value of 1000 s/mm(2) (P < 0.001), and on DWI with b-value of 1000 s/mm(2) than on that with b-value of 500 s/mm(2) (P < 0.001). The tumour-to-distal pancreas SI ratio was higher with b-value of 1500 s/mm(2) than with b-value of 1000 s/mm(2) (P < 0.001), and with b-value of 1000 s/mm(2) than with b-value of 500 s/mm(2) (P < 0.001). A lower image quality was obtained at increasing b-values (P < 0.001); the lowest scores were observed with b-value of 2000 s/mm(2). The use of b = 1500 s/mm(2) for 3.0-T DWI can improve the delineation of pancreatic adenocarcinomas. • Diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) has been used for diagnosing pancreatic adenocarcinoma • The techniques for DWI, including the choice of b-values, vary considerably • DWI often fails to delineate pancreatic adenocarcinomas because of hyperintense pancreas • DWI with a higher b-value can improve the tumour delineation • The lowest image quality was obtained on DWI with b-value = 2000 s/mm (2).

Diffusion tensor imaging can be used to detect lesions in peripheral nerves in patients with chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy treated with subcutaneous immunoglobulin.

PubMed

Markvardsen, Lars H; Vaeggemose, Michael; Ringgaard, Steffen; Andersen, Henning

2016-08-01

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) has shown that fractional anisotropy (FA) is lower in peripheral nerves in chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP). We examined whether DTI correlates to muscle strength or impairment. MRI of sciatic and tibial nerves was performed on 3-T MR scanner by obtaining T2- and DTI-weighted sequences with fat saturation. On each slice of T2-weighted (T2w) and DTI, the tibial and sciatic nerves were segmented and served for calculation of signal intensity. On DTI images, pixel-by-pixel calculation of FA and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) was done. Muscle strength at knee and ankle was determined by isokinetic dynamometry and severity of CIDP by neuropathy impairment score (NIS). Fourteen CIDP patients treated with subcutaneous immunoglobulin were compared to gender- and age-matched controls. T2w values expressed as a nerve/muscle ratio (nT2w) were unchanged in CIDP versus controls 0.93 ± 0.21 versus 1.02 ± 0.21 (P = 0.10). FA values were lower in CIDP compared to controls 0.38 ± 0.07 versus 0.45 ± 0.05 (P < 0.0001), and ADC values were higher in CIDP versus controls 1735 ± 232 versus 1593 ± 116 × 10(-6) mm(2)/s (P = 0.005). In CIDP, FA values correlated to clinical impairment (NIS) (r = -0.57, P = 0.03), but not to muscle strength. FA value in the sciatic nerve distinguishes CIDP from controls with a sensitivity and a specificity of 92.9 %. CIDP patients have unchanged nT2w values, lower FA values, and higher ADC values of sciatic and tibial nerves compared to controls. FA values correlated to NIS but were unrelated to muscle strength. DTI of sciatic nerves seems promising to differentiate CIDP from controls.

Renal transplant among type 1 and type 2 diabetes patients in Spain: A population-based study from 2002 to 2013.

PubMed

López-de-Andrés, Ana; de Miguel-Yanes, José M; Hernández-Barrera, Valentín; Méndez-Bailón, Manuel; González-Pascual, Montserrat; de Miguel-Díez, Javier; Salinero-Fort, Miguel A; Pérez-Farinós, Napoleón; Jiménez-Trujillo, Isabel; Jiménez-García, Rodrigo

2017-01-01

To describe trends in the rates and short-term outcomes of renal transplants (RTx) among patients with or without diabetes in Spain (2002-2013). We used national hospital discharge data to select all hospital admissions for RTx. We divided the study period into four three-year periods. Rates were calculated stratified by diabetes status: type 1 diabetes (T1DM), type 2 diabetes (T2DM) and no-diabetes. We analyzed Charlson comorbidity index (CCI), post-transplant infections, in-hospital complications of RTx, rejection, in-hospital mortality and length of hospital stay. We identified 25,542 RTx. Rates of RTx increased significantly in T2DM patients over time (from 9.3 cases/100,000 in 2002/2004 to 13.3 cases/100,000 in 2011/2013), with higher rates among people with T2DM for all time periods. T2DM patients were older and had higher CCI values than T1DM and non-diabetic patients (CCI≥1, 31.4%, 20.4% and 21.5%, respectively; P<0.05). Time trend analyses showed significant increases in infections, RTx-associated complications and rejection for all groups (all P values<0.05). Infection rates were greater in people with T2DM (20.8%) and T1DM (23.5%) than in non-diabetic people (18.7%; P<0.05). Time trend analyses (2002-2013) showed significant decreases in mortality during admission for RTx (OR 0.75, 95% CI 0.68-0.83). Diabetes was not associated with a higher in-hospital mortality (OR: 1.20, 95% CI 0.92-1.55). RTx rates were higher and increased over time at a higher rate among T2DM patients. Mortality decreased over time in all groups. Diabetes does not predict mortality during admission for RTx. Instituto Salud Carlos III and URJC-Banco Santander. Copyright © 2016 European Federation of Internal Medicine. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Evaluation of neonatal brain myelination using the T1- and T2-weighted MRI ratio.

PubMed

Soun, Jennifer E; Liu, Michael Z; Cauley, Keith A; Grinband, Jack

2017-09-01

To validate the T1- and T2-weighted (T1w/T2w) MRI ratio technique in evaluating myelin in the neonatal brain. T1w and T2w MR images of 10 term neonates with normal-appearing brain parenchyma were obtained from a single 1.5 Tesla MRI and retrospectively analyzed. T1w/T2w ratio images were created with a postprocessing pipeline and qualitatively compared with standard clinical sequences (T1w, T2w, and apparent diffusion coefficient [ADC]). Quantitative assessment was also performed to assess the ratio technique in detecting areas of known myelination (e.g., posterior limb of the internal capsule) and very low myelination (e.g., optic radiations) using linear regression analysis and the Michelson Contrast equation, a measure of luminance contrast intensity. The ratio image provided qualitative improvements in the ability to visualize regional variation in myelin content of neonates. Linear regression analysis demonstrated a significant inverse relationship between the ratio intensity values and ADC values in the posterior limb of the internal capsule and the optic radiations (R 2  = 0.96 and P < 0.001). The Michelson Contrast equation showed that contrast differences between these two regions for the ratio images were 1.6 times higher than T1w, 2.6 times higher than T2w, and 1.8 times higher than ADC (all P < 0.001). Finally, the ratio improved visualization of the corticospinal tract, one of the earliest myelinated pathways. The T1w/T2w ratio accentuates contrast between myelinated and less myelinated structures and may enhance our diagnostic ability to detect myelination patterns in the neonatal brain. 2 Technical Efficacy: Stage2 J. MAGN. RESON. IMAGING 2017;46:690-696. © 2016 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.

Austrian Moderate Altitude Study (AMAS 2000): erythropoietic activity and Hb-O(2) affinity during a 3-week hiking holiday at moderate altitude in persons with metabolic syndrome.

PubMed

Schobersberger, Wolfgang; Greie, Sven; Humpeler, Egon; Mittermayr, Markus; Fries, Dietmar; Schobersberger, Beatrix; Artner-Dworzak, Erika; Hasibeder, Walter; Klingler, Anton; Gunga, Hanns-Christian

2005-01-01

Moderate altitude hypoxia (1500 to 2500 m) is known to stimulate erythropoiesis and to improve oxygen transport to tissue by a reduction of Hb-O(2) affinity. Whether this adaptation also occurs in tourists with metabolic syndrome has not yet been investigated sufficiently. Thus, we performed a prospective field study to measure erythropoietic parameters and oxygen transport properties in 24 male volunteers with metabolic syndrome during a 3- week holiday program at 1700 m consisting of four guided, individually adapted hiking tours per week. The following examinations were performed: baseline investigations at 500 m (T1); examinations at moderate altitude on day 1 (T2), day 4 (T3), day 9 (T4), and day 19 (T5); and postaltitude tests (T6) 7 to 10 days after return. On day 1 and day 19, a walk on a standardized hiking test route with oxygen saturation (SpO(2)) measure points was performed. Hemoglobin, packed cell volume, and red cell count showed changes over time, with higher values at T5 as compared to baseline. Reticulocyte count and erythropoietin (EPO) were increased at T2 and increased further until T5. EPO declined toward prealtitude values. P50-value (blood PO(2) at 50% hemoglobin oxygen saturation at actual pH) increased during the altitude sojourn (maximum increase at T5 by +0.40 kPa). At T5 all volunteers had a higher SpO(2) before, during, and at the end of the test route compared to T1. During adaptation to moderate altitude, persons with metabolic syndrome exhibit an increase in EPO and a rightward shift of the oxygen dissociation curve that is similar to healthy subjects.

Adipokines, oxidized low-density lipoprotein, and C-reactive protein levels in lean, overweight, and obese portuguese patients with type 2 diabetes.

PubMed

Neuparth, Maria João; Proença, Jorge Brandão; Santos-Silva, Alice; Coimbra, Susana

2013-01-01

Aim. Our aim was to study how different BMI scores may influence the levels of inflammation, oxidative stress, adipogenesis, glucose, and lipid metabolism, in lean, overweight, and obese Portuguese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Methods. We studied 28 lean, 38 overweight, and 17 obese patients with T2DM and 20 controls (gender and age matched). The circulating levels of oxLDL, CRP, and some adipokines-adiponectin, leptin, and chemerin-and the lipid profile were evaluated. Results. Obese patients presented significantly lower levels of adiponectin and higher leptin, oxLDL, and chemerin levels, as compared to the overweight, lean, and control groups. Overweight, compared to lean and control, subjects showed significantly lower adiponectin and higher leptin and chemerin levels; oxLDL values were significantly higher in overweight than in lean patients. Lean patients presented significantly higher chemerin values than the control. Obese patients presented significantly higher CRP values, as compared to lean patients and the control group. Obese and overweight patients presented significantly higher triglycerides values than lean patients. Except for CRP, all the observed significant changes between control and patients remained significant after statistical adjustment for the body mass index (BMI). Conclusion. The levels of leptin, adiponectin, oxLDL, CRP, and triglycerides in patients with T2DM seem to be more associated with obesity and less with diabetes. Chemerin levels were raised in lean, overweight, and obese patients, suggesting that, independently of BMI, an adipocyte dysfunction occurs. Moreover, chemerin may provide an important early biomarker of adipocyte dysfunction and a link between obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Adipokines, Oxidized Low-Density Lipoprotein, and C-Reactive Protein Levels in Lean, Overweight, and Obese Portuguese Patients with Type 2 Diabetes

PubMed Central

Neuparth, Maria João; Proença, Jorge Brandão; Santos-Silva, Alice; Coimbra, Susana

2013-01-01

Aim. Our aim was to study how different BMI scores may influence the levels of inflammation, oxidative stress, adipogenesis, glucose, and lipid metabolism, in lean, overweight, and obese Portuguese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Methods. We studied 28 lean, 38 overweight, and 17 obese patients with T2DM and 20 controls (gender and age matched). The circulating levels of oxLDL, CRP, and some adipokines—adiponectin, leptin, and chemerin—and the lipid profile were evaluated. Results. Obese patients presented significantly lower levels of adiponectin and higher leptin, oxLDL, and chemerin levels, as compared to the overweight, lean, and control groups. Overweight, compared to lean and control, subjects showed significantly lower adiponectin and higher leptin and chemerin levels; oxLDL values were significantly higher in overweight than in lean patients. Lean patients presented significantly higher chemerin values than the control. Obese patients presented significantly higher CRP values, as compared to lean patients and the control group. Obese and overweight patients presented significantly higher triglycerides values than lean patients. Except for CRP, all the observed significant changes between control and patients remained significant after statistical adjustment for the body mass index (BMI). Conclusion. The levels of leptin, adiponectin, oxLDL, CRP, and triglycerides in patients with T2DM seem to be more associated with obesity and less with diabetes. Chemerin levels were raised in lean, overweight, and obese patients, suggesting that, independently of BMI, an adipocyte dysfunction occurs. Moreover, chemerin may provide an important early biomarker of adipocyte dysfunction and a link between obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus. PMID:24634792

Carbon dynamics in a Late Quaternary-age coastal limestone aquifer system undergoing saltwater intrusion.

PubMed

Bryan, Eliza; Meredith, Karina T; Baker, Andy; Andersen, Martin S; Post, Vincent E A

2017-12-31

This study investigates the inorganic and organic aspects of the carbon cycle in groundwaters throughout the freshwater lens and transition zone of a carbonate island aquifer and identifies the transformation of carbon throughout the system. We determined 14 C and 13 C carbon isotope values for both DIC and DOC in groundwaters, and investigated the composition of DOC throughout the aquifer. In combination with hydrochemical and 3 H measurements, the chemical evolution of groundwaters was then traced from the unsaturated zone to the deeper saline zone. The data revealed three distinct water types: Fresh (F), Transition zone 1 (T1) and Transition zone 2 (T2) groundwaters. The 3 H values in F and T1 samples indicate that these groundwaters are mostly modern. 14 C DOC values are higher than 14 C DIC values and are well correlated with 3 H values. F and T1 groundwater geochemistry is dominated by carbonate mineral recrystallisation reactions that add dead carbon to the groundwater. T2 groundwaters are deeper, saline and characterised by an absence of 3 H, lower 14 C DOC values and a different DOC composition, namely a higher proportion of Humic Substances relative to total DOC. The T2 groundwaters are suggested to result from either the slow circulation of water within the seawater wedge, or from old remnant seawater caused by past sea level highstands. While further investigations are required to identify the origin of the T2 groundwaters, this study has identified their occurrence and shown that they did not evolve along the same pathway as fresh groundwaters. This study has also shown that a combined approach using 14 C and 13 C carbon isotope values for both DIC and DOC and the composition of DOC, as well as hydrochemical and 3 H measurements, can provide invaluable information regarding the transformation of carbon in a groundwater system and the evolution of fresh groundwater recharge. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Direct comparison of intra-articular versus intravenous delayed gadolinium-enhanced MRI of hip joint cartilage.

PubMed

Zilkens, Christoph; Miese, Falk; Kim, Young-Jo; Jäger, Marcus; Mamisch, Tallal C; Hosalkar, Harish; Antoch, Gerald; Krauspe, Rüdiger; Bittersohl, Bernd

2014-01-01

To investigate the potential of delayed gadolinium-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging in cartilage (dGEMRIC) after intra-articular (ia) contrast agent administration at 3 Tesla (T), a paired study comparing intravenous (iv) dGEMRIC (standard) with ia-dGEMRIC was performed. Thirty-five symptomatic patients with suspected cartilage damage underwent ia- and iv-dGEMRIC. MRI was performed with a 3T system wherein the interval between both measurements was 2 weeks. For iv-dGEMRIC, FDA approved Gd-DOTA(-) was injected intravenously 45 min before the MRI scan. For ia-dGEMRIC, 10-20 mL of a 2 mM solution of Gd- DOTA(-) was injected under fluoroscopic guidance 30 min before the MRI scan. Both ia- and iv-dGEMRIC demonstrated the typical T1Gd pattern in hip joint cartilage with increasing values toward the superior regions in acetabular cartilage reflecting the higher glycosaminoglycan (GAG) content in the main weight-bearing area. Correlation analysis revealed a moderate correlation between both techniques (r = 0.439, P-value < 0.001), whereas the T1Gd values for iv-dGEMRIC were significantly higher than those for ia-dGEMRIC. This corresponds with the Bland-Altman plot analysis, which revealed a systemic bias (higher T1Gd values after iv gadolinium application) of ∼70 ms. Ia-dGEMRIC was able to reveal the characteristic T1Gd pattern in hip joint cartilage confirming the sensitivity of ia-dGEMRIC for GAG. In addition, there was a significant correlation between iv-dGEMRIC and ia-dGEMRIC. However, the T1Gd values after ia contrast media application were significantly lower than those after iv application that has to be considered for future studies. Copyright © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

PROPERTIES OF THE T8.5 DWARF WOLF 940 B

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

Leggett, S. K.; Saumon, D.; Burningham, Ben

We present 7.5-14.2 {mu}m low-resolution spectroscopy, obtained with the Spitzer Infrared Spectrograph, of the T8.5 dwarf Wolf 940 B, which is a companion to an M4 dwarf with a projected separation of 400 AU. We combine these data with previously published near-infrared spectroscopy and mid-infrared photometry to produce the spectral energy distribution for the very low temperature T dwarf. We use atmospheric models to derive the bolometric correction and obtain a luminosity of log L/L{sub sun} = -6.01 {+-} 0.05 (the observed spectra make up 47% of the total flux). Evolutionary models are used with the luminosity to constrain themore » values of effective temperature (T{sub eff}) and surface gravity and hence mass and age for the T dwarf. We ensure that the spectral models used to determine the bolometric correction have T{sub eff} and gravity values consistent with the luminosity-implied values. We further restrict the allowed range of T{sub eff} and gravity using age constraints implied by the M dwarf primary and refine the physical properties of the T dwarf by comparison of the observed and modeled spectroscopy and photometry. This comparison indicates that Wolf 940 B has a metallicity within {approx}0.2 dex of solar, as more extreme values give poor fits to the data-lower metallicity produces a poor fit at {lambda}>2 {mu}m, while higher metallicity produces a poor fit at {lambda} < 2 {mu}m. This is consistent with the independently derived value of [m/H] =+0.24 {+-} 0.09 for the primary star, using the Johnson and Apps M{sub K} : V - K relationship. We find that the T dwarf atmosphere is undergoing vigorous mixing, with an eddy diffusion coefficient K{sub zz} of 10{sup 4} to 10{sup 6} cm{sup 2} s{sup -1}. We derive an effective temperature of 585 K to 625 K, and surface gravity log g = 4.83 to 5.22 (cm s{sup -2}), for an age range of 3 Gyr to 10 Gyr, as implied by the kinematic and H{alpha} properties of the M dwarf primary. Gravity and temperature are correlated such that the lower gravity corresponds to the lower temperature and younger age for the system and the higher values to the higher temperature and older age. The mass of the T dwarf is 24 M{sub Jupiter} to 45 M{sub Jupiter} for the younger to older age limit.« less

Thymic function, anti-thymocytes globulins, and cancer after renal transplantation.

PubMed

Ducloux, Didier; Bamoulid, Jamal; Courivaud, Cécile; Gaugler, Béatrice; Rebibou, Jean-Michel; Ferrand, Christophe; Chalopin, Jean-Marc; Borg, Christophe; Tiberghien, Pierre; Saas, Philippe

2011-07-01

Prolonged CD4 T cell lymphopenia after polyclonal antithymocyte globulins (ATG) is associated with an increased rate of cancers. Here, we examined whether pre-transplant thymic function estimated by TREC levels is predictive of cancer occurrence following ATG treatment. The impact of TREC on cancer occurrence was analyzed in 115 consecutive incident renal transplant recipients having received ATG. Mean follow-up was 7.5±2.6years. After ATG induction, patients with the lowest pre-transplant TREC values had lower post-transplant CD4(+) and CD4(+) CD45RA(+) CD45RO(-) T cell counts, and a higher frequency of T cells with a regulatory phenotype (CD127(+)CD4(+)CD25(+)Foxp3(+)). Log-transformed pre-transplant TREC values were significantly lower in patients who developed cancer after transplantation (p<0.0001). The cumulative incidence of cancer was higher in patients having the lowest pre-transplant TREC values (T1 [low]: 47.4%, T2 [medium]: 12.5%, and T3 [high]: 2.7%; p<0.0001). In multivariate analysis, pre-transplant TREC value was the only predictive factor of cancer (HR, 0.39; 95% CI, 0.16 to 0.97, for one log (TREC/10(6) PBMC); p=0.046). Pre-transplant thymic function is associated with an increased rate of post-transplant cancer in patients having received ATG. Omitting ATG in recipients with low pre-transplant TREC values should be considered. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Exposure to 50 Hz magnetic field in apartment buildings with built-in transformer stations in Hungary.

PubMed

Thuróczy, György; Jánossy, Gábor; Nagy, Noémi; Bakos, József; Szabó, Judit; Mezei, Gábor

2008-01-01

Exposure to 50 Hz magnetic field (MF) was evaluated in 31 multi-level apartment buildings with built-in step-down transformer stations. In each building, three apartments were selected: one apartment located immediately above the transformer room (index apartment), one located on the same floor and one on a higher floor. The mean value of measured MFs was 0.98 microT in apartments above transformers, 0.13 microT on the same floor, and 0.1 microT in on higher floors. The mean measured MF value was higher than 0.2 microT in 30 (97%) index apartments, 4 (14%) on the same floor as the index apartments and 4 (13%) on higher floors. The corresponding numbers were 25 (81%), 0 and 0, respectively, when 0.4 microT was used as cut-point. It is concluded that apartments in building with built-in transformers can be reliably classified into high and low-exposure categories based on their location in relation to transformers.

Development of the UTAUT2 model to measure the acceptance of medical laboratory portals by patients in Shiraz.

PubMed

Ravangard, Ramin; Kazemi, Zhila; Abbasali, Somaye Zaker; Sharifian, Roxana; Monem, Hossein

2017-02-01

One of the main stages for achieving the success is acceptance of technology by its users. Hence, identifying the effective factors in successful acceptance of information technology is necessary and vital. One such factor is usability. This study aimed to investigate the software usability in the "Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology 2 (UTAUT2)" model in patients' use of medical diagnosis laboratories' electronic portals in 2015. This cross-sectional study was carried out on 170 patients in 2015. A 27-item questionnaire adopted from previous research and the Usability Evaluation questionnaire were used for data collection. Data were analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), with Partial Least Squares approach by SPSS 20.0 and Smart-PLS V3.0. The results showed that the construct of intention to use had significant associations with price value (t-value=2.77), hedonic motivation (t-value=4.46), habit (t-value=1.99) and usability (t-value=5.2), as well as the construct of usage behavior with usability (t-value=3.45) and intention to use (t-value=2.03). Considering the results of this study, the following recommendations can be made in order for the higher use of portals by the patients: informing patients about the advantages of using these portals, designing portals in a simple and understandable form, increasing the portals' attractiveness, etc.

Does repeated and heavy exercise impair blood rheology in carriers of sickle cell trait?

PubMed

Tripette, Julien; Hardy-Dessources, Marie-Dominique; Sara, Fagnété; Montout-Hedreville, Mona; Saint-Martin, Christian; Hue, Olivier; Connes, Philippe

2007-11-01

To determine if the time courses of hemorheologic parameters are different between carriers of sickle cell trait (SCT) and subjects with normal hemoglobin in response to exercise. Observational and comparative study. Testing was conducted in a laboratory of exercise physiology. Nine carriers of sickle cell trait (SCT group) and 7 subjects with normal hemoglobin (CONT group) performed an exercise protocol of the repetition of 3 successive maximal ramp exercise tests. Blood was sampled at rest (TR), at the end of each of the 3 tests (T1, T2, T3), and during the immediate (T2h) and late (T24h, T48h) recovery periods. Blood and plasma viscosity (etab and etap, respectively), hematocrit (Hct), and red blood cell (RBC) rigidity (Tk and k indexes) were determined. In both groups, etab significantly increased in response to exercise but the SCT group had significantly higher etab at T3 and T2h. etab then returned to baseline value at T2h in the CONT group and at T24h in the SCT group. Tk and k were not changed by exercise but significantly increased above baseline value in both groups at T24h and T48h. The increase in Tk and k during late recovery was higher in the SCT group than in the CONT group, indicating that SCT carriers had significantly higher RBC rigidity than the CONT group at that time. The hemorheologic changes induced by exercise in the SCT carriers could trigger microcirculatory disorders during the recovery.

Comparison of T1 and T2 metabolite relaxation times in glioma and normal brain at 3 T

PubMed Central

Li, Yan; Srinivasan, Radhika; Ratiney, Helene; Lu, Ying; Chang, Susan M.; Nelson, Sarah J.

2011-01-01

Purpose To measure T1 and T2 relaxation times of metabolites in glioma patients at 3T and to investigate how these values influence the observed metabolite levels. Materials and Methods Twenty-three patients with gliomas and ten volunteers were studied with single voxel 2D J-resolved PRESS using a 3T MR scanner. Voxels were chosen in normal appearing white matter and in regions of tumor. The T1 and T2 of choline containing compounds (Cho), creatine (Cr) and N-acetyl aspartate (NAA) were estimated. Results Metabolite T1 relaxation values in gliomas were not significantly different from values in normal white matter. The T2 of Cho and Cr were statistically significantly longer for Grade 4 gliomas than for normal white matter but the T2 of NAA was similar. These differences were large enough to impact the corrections of metabolite levels for relaxation times with tumor grade in terms of metabolite ratios (P<0.001). Conclusion The differential increase in T2 for Cho and Cr relative to NAA means that the ratios of Cho/NAA and Cr/NAA are higher in tumor at longer echo times relative to values in normal appearing brain. Having this information may be useful in defining the acquisition parameters for optimizing contrast between tumor and normal tissue in MRSI data, where limited time is available and only one echo time can be used. PMID:18666155

[Effects of small hydropower substitute fuel project on forest ecosystem services].

PubMed

Yu, Hai Yan; Zha, Tong Gang; Nie, Li Shui; Lyu, Zhi Yuan

2016-10-01

Based on the Forest Ecosystem Services Assessment Standards (LY/T 1721－2008) issued by the State Forestry Administration, this paper evaluated four key functions of forest ecosystems, i.e., water conservation, soil conservation, carbon fixation and oxygen release, and nutrient accumulation. Focusing on the project area of Majiang County in Guizhou Province, this study provided some quantitative evidence that the implementation of the small hydropower substituting fuel project had positive effects on the values and material quantities of ecosystem service functions. The results showed that the small hydropower substituting fuel project had a significant effect on the increase of forest ecosystem services. Water conservation quantity of Pinus massoniana and Cupressus funebris plantations inside project area was 20662.04 m 3 ·hm -2 ·a -1 , 20.5% higher than outside project area, with soil conservation quantity of 119.1 t·hm -2 ·a -1 , 29.7% higher than outside project area, carbon fixation and oxygen release of 220.49 t·hm -2 ·a -1 , 40.2% higher than outside project area, and forest tree nutrition accumulation of 3.49 t·hm -2 ·a -1 , 48.5% higher than outside project area. Small hydropower substituting fuel project for increasing the quota of forest ecosystem service function value was in the order of carbon fixation and oxygen release function (71400 yuan·hm -2 ·a -1 ) > water conservation function (60100 yuan·hm -2 ·a -1 ) > tree nutrition accumulation function (13800 yuan·hm -2 ·a -1 ) > soil conservation function (8100 yuan·hm -2 ·a -1 ). Small hydropower substituting fuel project played an important role for improving the forest ecological service function value and realizing the sustainable development of forest.

Diagnostic value of T-Spot TB combined with INF-γ and IL-27 in tuberculous pleurisy

PubMed Central

Zhang, Meng; Xiong, Dedong; Li, Hongxia; Wang, Zonglan; Li, Renzhe

2018-01-01

The purpose of the present study was to investigate the diagnostic value of T cells spot test (T-Spot TB) combined with interferon-γ (INF-γ) and interleukin-27 (IL-27) in tuberculous pleurisy. Sixty patients with tuberculous pleurisy (observation group) and 60 patients with non-tuberculous pleurisy (control group) were enrolled in this study. T-Spot TB was performed to detect the pleural effusion of two groups of patients. Levels of IFN-γ and IL-27 in serum and pleural effusion were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Relative expression of IFN-γ mRNA and IL-27 mRNA in peripheral blood mononuclear cells were detected by RT-PCR. Positive rate of T-Spot TB in observation group was 96.7% (58 cases), which was significantly higher than that in control group (p<0.05). Concentration of INF-γ in pleural effusion of observation group was 468.6±24.8 ng/l, which was significantly higher than that in control group (131.3±18.7 ng/l, p<0.05). Concentration of IL-27 in pleural effusion of observation group was 423.4±37.2 ng/l, which was significantly higher than that in control group (116.2±15.5 ng/l, p<0.05). Concentrations of INF-γ and IL-27 in serum of observation group were 48.2±13.4 and 41.7±10.6 ng/l, respectively, which were significantly higher than those in control group (38.6±11.2 and 35.3±8.4 ng/l, p<0.05). Relative expression levels of INF-γ mRNA and IL-27 mRNA in observation group were significantly higher than those in control group (p<0.05). Therefore, combination of T-Spot TB with INF-γ and IL-27 has significant application value in the clinical diagnosis of tuberculous pleurisy, and should be popularized. PMID:29399137

Diagnostic value of T-Spot TB combined with INF-γ and IL-27 in tuberculous pleurisy.

PubMed

Zhang, Meng; Xiong, Dedong; Li, Hongxia; Wang, Zonglan; Li, Renzhe

2018-02-01

The purpose of the present study was to investigate the diagnostic value of T cells spot test (T-Spot TB) combined with interferon-γ (INF-γ) and interleukin-27 (IL-27) in tuberculous pleurisy. Sixty patients with tuberculous pleurisy (observation group) and 60 patients with non-tuberculous pleurisy (control group) were enrolled in this study. T-Spot TB was performed to detect the pleural effusion of two groups of patients. Levels of IFN-γ and IL-27 in serum and pleural effusion were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Relative expression of IFN-γ mRNA and IL-27 mRNA in peripheral blood mononuclear cells were detected by RT-PCR. Positive rate of T-Spot TB in observation group was 96.7% (58 cases), which was significantly higher than that in control group (p<0.05). Concentration of INF-γ in pleural effusion of observation group was 468.6±24.8 ng/l, which was significantly higher than that in control group (131.3±18.7 ng/l, p<0.05). Concentration of IL-27 in pleural effusion of observation group was 423.4±37.2 ng/l, which was significantly higher than that in control group (116.2±15.5 ng/l, p<0.05). Concentrations of INF-γ and IL-27 in serum of observation group were 48.2±13.4 and 41.7±10.6 ng/l, respectively, which were significantly higher than those in control group (38.6±11.2 and 35.3±8.4 ng/l, p<0.05). Relative expression levels of INF-γ mRNA and IL-27 mRNA in observation group were significantly higher than those in control group (p<0.05). Therefore, combination of T-Spot TB with INF-γ and IL-27 has significant application value in the clinical diagnosis of tuberculous pleurisy, and should be popularized.

Response of the Aging Eye to First Day of Modern Material Contact Lens Wear.

PubMed

Lafosse, Edouard; Martínez-Albert, Noelia; Wolffsohn, James S W; Cerviño, Alejandro; García-Lázaro, Santiago

2018-06-25

To investigate the ocular surface of an aged population wearing a daily disposable contact lens (CL) over their 1st day of wear. Forty eyes from 40 presbyopic subjects were fitted a daily CL (Delefilcon A). Tear osmolarity, tear meniscus area (TMA), and ocular surface aberrations (total higher-order root mean square [RMS]) were assessed at baseline (t0), at 20 min (t1) and after 8 hr (t2) of wear. Fluorescein corneal and conjunctival staining and tear breakup time (TBUT) were performed at t0 and t2. No statistically significant changes were found between t0, t1, and t2 for TMA and between t0 and t2 for fluorescein corneal and conjunctival staining. Tear breakup time worsened by the end of the day from 10.4±0.4 sec t0 to 9.0±0.3 sec t2 (P<0.05). Osmolarity showed significant changes between t0 306.9±2.3 mOsm/L and t1 312.4±2.4 mOsmol/L (P=0.02) but returned to baseline values at 8 hr (310.40±2.26 mOsm/L; P=0.09). Total higher-order RMS showed significant changes between t0 0.38±0.02 μm and t1 0.61±0.04 μm (P≤0.001) and between t0 and t2 0.64±0.41 μm (P≤0.001). Delefilcon A may induce measures changes (osmolarity and TBUT values) in a presbyopic population; however, TMA and vital staining were maintained at the baseline level over the day.

T1 and T2 mapping for evaluation of myocardial involvement in patients with ANCA-associated vasculitides.

PubMed

Greulich, Simon; Mayr, Agnes; Kitterer, Daniel; Latus, Joerg; Henes, Joerg; Steubing, Hannah; Kaesemann, Philipp; Patrascu, Alexandru; Greiser, Andreas; Groeninger, Stefan; Braun, Niko; Alscher, M Dominik; Sechtem, Udo; Mahrholdt, Heiko

2017-01-06

Myocardial involvement in AAV patients might be silent, presenting with no or nonspecific symptoms, normal ECG, and preserved left-ventricular ejection fraction (LV-EF). Since up to 50% of deaths in these patients may be due to myocardial involvement, a reliable diagnostic tool is warranted. In contrast to LGE-CMR, which has its strengths in detecting focal inflammatory or fibrotic processes, recent mapping techniques are able to detect even subtle, diffuse inflammatory or fibrotic processes. Our study sought to investigate ANCA (antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody) associated vasculitides (AAV) patients for myocardial involvement by a cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) protocol, including late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) and mapping sequences. Thirty seven AAV patients were prospectively enrolled and underwent CMR imaging. Twenty healthy volunteers served as controls. Mean LV-EF was 64%; LGE prevalence of the AAV patients was 43%. AAV patients had higher median native T1 (988 vs. 952 ms, p < 0.001), lower post-contrast T1 (488 vs. 524 ms, p = 0.03), expanded extracellular volume (ECV) (27.5 vs. 24.5%, p < 0.001), and higher T2 (53 vs. 49 ms, p < 0.001) compared to controls, with most parameters independent of the LGE status. Native T1 and T2 in AAV patients showed the highest prevalence of abnormally increased values beyond the 95% percentile of controls. AAV patients demonstrated increased T1, ECV, and T2 values, with native T1 and T2 showing the highest prevalence of values beyond the 95% percentile of normal. Since these findings seem to be independent of LGE, mapping techniques may provide complementary information to LGE-CMR in the assessment of myocardial involvement in patients with AAV.

Cardiorespiratory fitness and sports activities in children and adolescents with solitary functioning kidney.

PubMed

Tancredi, Giancarlo; Lambiase, Caterina; Favoriti, Alessandra; Ricupito, Francesca; Paoli, Sara; Duse, Marzia; De Castro, Giovanna; Zicari, Anna Maria; Vitaliti, Giovanna; Falsaperla, Raffaele; Lubrano, Riccardo

2016-04-27

An increasing number of children with chronic disease require a complete medical examination to be able to practice physical activity. Particularly children with solitary functioning kidney (SFK) need an accurate functional evaluation to perform sports activities safely. The aim of our study was to evaluate the influence of regular physical activity on the cardiorespiratory function of children with solitary functioning kidney. Twenty-nine patients with congenital SFK, mean age 13.9 ± 5.0 years, and 36 controls (C), mean age 13.8 ± 3.7 years, underwent a cardiorespiratory assessment with spirometry and maximal cardiopulmonary exercise testing. All subjects were divided in two groups: sedentary (S) and trained (T) patients, by means of a standardized questionnaire about their weekly physical activity. We found that mean values of maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max) and exercise time (ET) were higher in T subjects than in S subjects. Particularly SFK-T presented mean values of VO2max similar to C-T and significantly higher than C-S (SFK-T: 44.7 ± 6.3 vs C-S: 37.8 ± 3.7 ml/min/kg; p < 0.0008). We also found significantly higher mean values of ET (minutes) in minutes in SFK-T than C-S subjects (SFK-T: 12.9 ± 1.6 vs C-S: 10.8 ± 2.5 min; p <0.02). Our study showed that regular moderate/high level of physical activity improve aerobic capacity (VO2max) and exercise tolerance in congenital SFK patients without increasing the risks for cardiovascular accidents and accordingly sports activities should be strongly encouraged in SFK patients to maximize health benefits.

Kondo lattice heavy fermion behavior in CeRh2Ga2

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Anand, V. K.; Adroja, D. T.; Bhattacharyya, A.; Klemke, B.; Lake, B.

2017-04-01

The physical properties of an intermetallic compound CeRh2Ga2 have been investigated by magnetic susceptibility χ (T) , isothermal magnetization M(H), heat capacity {{C}\\text{p}}(T) , electrical resistivity ρ (T) , thermal conductivity κ (T) and thermopower S(T) measurements. CeRh2Ga2 is found to crystallize with CaBe2Ge2-type primitive tetragonal structure (space group P4/nmm). No evidence of long range magnetic order is seen down to 1.8 K. The χ (T) data show paramagnetic behavior with an effective moment {μ\\text{eff}}≈ 2.5~{μ\\text{B}} /Ce indicating Ce3+ valence state of Ce ions. The ρ (T) data exhibit Kondo lattice behavior with a metallic ground state. The low-T {{C}\\text{p}}(T) data yield an enhanced Sommerfeld coefficient γ =130(2) mJ/mol K2 characterizing CeRh2Ga2 as a moderate heavy fermion system. The high-T {{C}\\text{p}}(T) and ρ (T) show an anomaly near 255 K, reflecting a phase transition. The κ (T) suggests phonon dominated thermal transport with considerably higher values of Lorenz number L(T) compared to the theoretical Sommerfeld value L 0.

Contrast-enhanced 3T MR Perfusion of Musculoskeletal Tumours: T1 Value Heterogeneity Assessment and Evaluation of the Influence of T1 Estimation Methods on Quantitative Parameters.

PubMed

Gondim Teixeira, Pedro Augusto; Leplat, Christophe; Chen, Bailiang; De Verbizier, Jacques; Beaumont, Marine; Badr, Sammy; Cotten, Anne; Blum, Alain

2017-12-01

To evaluate intra-tumour and striated muscle T1 value heterogeneity and the influence of different methods of T1 estimation on the variability of quantitative perfusion parameters. Eighty-two patients with a histologically confirmed musculoskeletal tumour were prospectively included in this study and, with ethics committee approval, underwent contrast-enhanced MR perfusion and T1 mapping. T1 value variations in viable tumour areas and in normal-appearing striated muscle were assessed. In 20 cases, normal muscle perfusion parameters were calculated using three different methods: signal based and gadolinium concentration based on fixed and variable T1 values. Tumour and normal muscle T1 values were significantly different (p = 0.0008). T1 value heterogeneity was higher in tumours than in normal muscle (variation of 19.8% versus 13%). The T1 estimation method had a considerable influence on the variability of perfusion parameters. Fixed T1 values yielded higher coefficients of variation than variable T1 values (mean 109.6 ± 41.8% and 58.3 ± 14.1% respectively). Area under the curve was the least variable parameter (36%). T1 values in musculoskeletal tumours are significantly different and more heterogeneous than normal muscle. Patient-specific T1 estimation is needed for direct inter-patient comparison of perfusion parameters. • T1 value variation in musculoskeletal tumours is considerable. • T1 values in muscle and tumours are significantly different. • Patient-specific T1 estimation is needed for comparison of inter-patient perfusion parameters. • Technical variation is higher in permeability than semiquantitative perfusion parameters.

Fluid-attenuated inversion recovery vascular hyperintensities in predicting cerebral hyperperfusion after intracranial arterial stenting.

PubMed

Wan, Chih-Cheng; Chen, David Yen-Ting; Tseng, Ying-Chi; Yan, Feng-Xian; Lee, Kun-Yu; Chiang, Chen-Hua; Chen, Chi-Jen

2017-08-01

No reliable imaging sign predicting cerebral hyperperfusion after intracranial arterial stenting (IAS) had been described in the literature. This study evaluated the effect of fluid-attenuated inversion recovery vascular hyperintensities (FVHs), also called hyperintense vessel sign on T2-weighted fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (T2-FLAIR) MR images, in predicting significant increase in cerebral blood flow (CBF) defined by arterial spin labeling (ASL) after IAS. We reviewed ASL CBF images and T2-FLAIR MR images before (D0), 1 day after (D1), and 3 days after (D3) IAS of 16 patients. T1-weighted MR images were used as cerebral maps for calculating CBF. The changes in CBF values after IAS were calculated in and compared among stenting and nonstenting vascular territories. An increase more than 50% of CBF was considered as hyperperfusion. The effect of FVHs in predicting hyperperfusion was calculated. The D1 CBF value was significantly higher than the D0 CBF value in stenting vascular, contralateral anterior cerebral artery, contralateral middle cerebral artery, and contralateral posterior cerebral artery (PCA) territories (all P < .05). The D1 and D3 CBF values were significantly higher than the D0 CBF value in overall vascular (P < .001), overall nonstenting vascular (P < .001), and ipsilateral PCA (P < .05) territories. The rate of more than 50% increases in CBF was significantly higher in patients who exhibited asymmetric FVHs than in those who did not exhibit these findings. FVHs could be a critical predictor of a significant increase in CBF after IAS.

Multiparametric Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the Prostate for Tumour Detection and Local Staging: Imaging in 1.5T and Histopathologic Correlation.

PubMed

Loggitsi, Dimitra; Gyftopoulos, Anastasios; Economopoulos, Nikolaos; Apostolaki, Aikaterini; Kalogeropoulos, Theodoros; Thanos, Anastasios; Alexopoulou, Efthimia; Kelekis, Nikolaos L

2017-11-01

The study sought to prospectively evaluate which technique among T2-weighted images, dynamic contrast-enhanced (DCE) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), diffusion-weighted (DW) MRI, or a combination of the 2, is best suited for prostate cancer detection and local staging. Twenty-seven consecutive patients with biopsy-proven adenocarcinoma of the prostate underwent MRI on a 1.5T scanner with a surface phased-array coil prior radical prostatectomy. Combined anatomical and functional imaging was performed with the use of T2-weighted sequences, DCE MRI, and DW MRI. We compared the imaging results with whole mount histopathology. For the multiparametric approach, significantly higher sensitivity values, that is, 53% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 41.0-64.1) were obtained as compared with each modality alone or any combination of the 3 modalities (P < .05). The specificity for this multiparametric approach, being 90.3% (95% CI: 86.3-93.3) was not significantly higher (P < .05) as compared with the values of the combination of T2+DCE MRI, DW+DCE MRI, or DCE MRI alone. Among the 3 techniques, DCE had the best performance for tumour detection in both the peripheral and the transition zone. High negative predictive value rates (>86%) were obtained for both tumour detection and local staging. The combination of T2-weighted sequences, DCE MRI, and DW MRI yields higher diagnostic performance for tumour detection and local staging than can any of these techniques alone or even any combination of them. Copyright © 2017 Canadian Association of Radiologists. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Diagnostic value of brain chronic black holes on T1-weighted MR images in clinically isolated syndromes.

PubMed

Mitjana, Raquel; Tintoré, Mar; Rocca, Maria A; Auger, Cristina; Barkhof, Frederik; Filippi, Massimo; Polman, Chris; Fazekas, Franz; Huerga, Elena; Montalban, Xavier; Rovira, Alex

2014-10-01

Non-enhancing black holes (neBHs) are more common in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients with longer disease durations and progressive disease subtypes. Our aim was to analyse the added value of neBHs in patients with clinically isolated syndromes (CISs) for predicting conversion to clinically definite MS (CDMS). Patients were classified based on the presence or absence of neBHs and on the number of Barkhof-Tintoré (B-T) criteria fulfilled. Dissemination in space (DIS) was defined as the presence of at least three of the four B-T criteria. Dissemination in time (DIT)1 was defined by simultaneous presence of enhancing and non-enhancing lesions. DIT2 was defined by simultaneous presence of neBHs and T2 lesions not apparent on T1-weighted images. Focal T2-hyperintense brain lesions were identified in 87.7% of the 520 CIS patients, and 41.4% of them presented at least one neBH. Patients meeting DIS, DIT1, and DIT2 had a significantly higher rate of conversion to CDMS. After adjusting for DIS, only patients who fulfilled DIT1 preserved a significant increase in CDMS conversion. Non-enhancing black holes in CIS patients are associated with a higher risk of conversion to CDMS. However, the predictive value of this finding is lost when added to the DIS criteria. © The Author(s) 2014.

Comparison of Electroencephalography (EEG) Coherence between Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) without Comorbidity and MDD Comorbid with Internet Gaming Disorder.

PubMed

Youh, Joohyung; Hong, Ji Sun; Han, Doug Hyun; Chung, Un Sun; Min, Kyoung Joon; Lee, Young Sik; Kim, Sun Mi

2017-07-01

Internet gaming disorder (IGD) has many comorbid psychiatric problems including major depressive disorder (MDD). In the present study, we compared the neurobiological differences between MDD without comorbidity (MDD-only) and MDD comorbid with IGD (MDD+IGD) by analyzing the quantitative electroencephalogram (QEEG) findings. We recruited 14 male MDD+IGD (mean age, 20.0 ± 5.9 years) and 15 male MDD-only (mean age, 20.3 ± 5.5 years) patients. The electroencephalography (EEG) coherences were measured using a 21-channel digital EEG system and computed to assess synchrony in the frequency ranges of alpha (7.5-12.5 Hz) and beta (12.5-35.0 Hz) between the following 12 electrode site pairs: inter-hemispheric (Fp1-Fp2, F7-F8, T3-T4, and P3-P4) and intra-hemispheric (F7-T3, F8-T4, C3-P3, C4-P4, T5-O1, T6-O2, P3-O1, and P4-O2) pairs. Differences in inter- and intra-hemispheric coherence values for the frequency bands between groups were analyzed using the independent t-test. Inter-hemispheric coherence value for the alpha band between Fp1-Fp2 electrodes was significantly lower in MDD+IGD than MDD-only patients. Intra-hemispheric coherence value for the alpha band between P3-O1 electrodes was higher in MDD+IGD than MDD-only patients. Intra-hemispheric coherence values for the beta band between F8-T4, T6-O2, and P4-O2 electrodes were higher in MDD+IGD than MDD-only patients. There appears to be an association between decreased inter-hemispheric connectivity in the frontal region and vulnerability to attention problems in the MDD+IGD group. Increased intra-hemisphere connectivity in the fronto-temporo-parieto-occipital areas may result from excessive online gaming. © 2017 The Korean Academy of Medical Sciences.

Right ventricular dysfunction in acute pulmonary embolism: NT-proBNP vs. troponin T.

PubMed

Cotugno, Marilena; Orgaz-Molina, Jacinto; Rosa-Salazar, Vladimir; Guirado-Torrecillas, Leticia; García-Pérez, Bartolomé

2017-04-21

Dysfunction of the right ventricle (RV) is a parameter of severity in acute pulmonary embolism (PE). Echocardiographic assessment is not always possible in accident and emergency, hence the need to predict the presence of RV dysfunction using easily measurable parameters. To analyse the value of NT-proBNP and troponin T as markers of RV dysfunction in patients with acute PE. Secondarily, to assess the relationship between RV failure and clinical parameters related to PE. Analytical, observational, cross-sectional and retrospective study comparing the values NT-proBNP, troponin T and presenting symptoms of PE among patients with and without RV dysfunction. One hundred seventy-two patients (52 with RV failure,120 without) were included. All symptoms occurred with similar frequency between the 2groups except dyspnea and syncope (more common in the group with RV failure). Both NT-proBNP and troponin T had significantly higher values in the group of patients with RV dysfunction. However, in the multivariate analysis, NT-proBNP had a higher explanatory value for RV failure than troponin T. NT-proBNP is a diagnostic parameter of RV dysfunction with higher sensitivity in the context of acute PE. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

Development of the UTAUT2 model to measure the acceptance of medical laboratory portals by patients in Shiraz

PubMed Central

Ravangard, Ramin; Kazemi, Zhila; Abbasali, Somaye Zaker; Sharifian, Roxana; Monem, Hossein

2017-01-01

Introduction One of the main stages for achieving the success is acceptance of technology by its users. Hence, identifying the effective factors in successful acceptance of information technology is necessary and vital. One such factor is usability. This study aimed to investigate the software usability in the “Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology 2 (UTAUT2)” model in patients’ use of medical diagnosis laboratories’ electronic portals in 2015. Methods This cross-sectional study was carried out on 170 patients in 2015. A 27-item questionnaire adopted from previous research and the Usability Evaluation questionnaire were used for data collection. Data were analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), with Partial Least Squares approach by SPSS 20.0 and Smart-PLS V3.0. Results The results showed that the construct of intention to use had significant associations with price value (t-value=2.77), hedonic motivation (t-value=4.46), habit (t-value=1.99) and usability (t-value=5.2), as well as the construct of usage behavior with usability (t-value=3.45) and intention to use (t-value=2.03). Conclusion Considering the results of this study, the following recommendations can be made in order for the higher use of portals by the patients: informing patients about the advantages of using these portals, designing portals in a simple and understandable form, increasing the portals’ attractiveness, etc. PMID:28465819

[Changes in hemodynamics and oxygen metabolism of different Child-grade patients during orthotopic liver transplantation without veno-venous bypass].

PubMed

Zhao, Dong; Wang, Tian-long; Pan, Fang; Zhao, Lei; Zhang, Lian-feng; Yang, Ba-xian

2006-08-18

To investigate the changes in hemodynamics and oxygen metabolism of different Child-grade patients during orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) without veno-venous bypass. Forty patients with end-stage liver disease undergoing non veno-venous OLT under general anesthesia were enrolled in this research. Swan-Ganz catheter was placed in the pulmonary artery via right internal jugular vein and right radial artery was cannulated to monitor mean pulmonary artery pressure (mPAP) and artery blood pressure (ABP) continuously. Pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (PCWP) and central venous pressure (CVP) were also recorded. Cardiac output (CO) was recorded at several time points, such as, 30 min after induction (T1), when inferior vena cava and portal vein were clamped (T2), 30 min after portal vein was clamped (T3), 10 min after unclamping of portal vein (T4), 60 min after graft reperfusion (T5) and at the end of the operation (T6). Blood samples were taken from radial and pulmonary artery for blood gas analysis and hemodynamic parameters, such as, cardiac index (CI), stroke volume index (SVI), pulmonary vascular resistance index (PVRI), and system vascular resistance index (SVRI); oxygen delivery (DO2) and oxygen consumption (VO2) were also calculated at these time points. (1) The mPAP values were much higher in group C than in group A or B at all time points. CVP was significantly increased at T1 or T2 in group C as compared with those points of Child's B or C. PCWP was increased significantly after unclamping of portal vein in all three groups and was much higher at several points in Child's C than in Child's A or B. The SVRI value of T1 and the PVRI value of T3 were much lower in group C than those points in group A and the value of SVRI/PVRI was less than normal except at T3 point. And blood gas analysis elucidated that PaO2 was higher than 400 mm Hg at any points. (2) Oxygen consumption was significantly decreased during the operation due to less blood supply and was reverted to normal at the end point of the operation in all patients. Oxygen delivery was all at least 1,000 mL/min during OLT and there was no significant difference between different groups or different points. The hemodynamic state of high cardiac output with low peripheral resistance deteriorated when patients' Child-grade shifted from A to C. VO2 was less than normal value during OLT until the end point.

Development of gestation-specific reference intervals for thyroid hormones in normal pregnant Northeast Chinese women: What is the rational division of gestation stages for establishing reference intervals for pregnancy women?

PubMed

Liu, Jianhua; Yu, Xiaojun; Xia, Meng; Cai, Hong; Cheng, Guixue; Wu, Lina; Li, Qiang; Zhang, Ying; Sheng, Mengyuan; Liu, Yong; Qin, Xiaosong

2017-04-01

A laboratory- and region-specific trimester-related reference interval for thyroid hormone assessment of pregnant women was recommended. Whether the division by trimester is suitable requires verification. Here, we tried to establish appropriate reference intervals of thyroid-related hormones and antibodies for normal pregnant women in Northeast China. A total of 947 pregnant women who underwent routine prenatal care were grouped via two methods. The first method entailed division by trimester: stages T1, T2, and T3. The second method entailed dividing T1, T2, and T3 stages into two stages each: T1-1, T1-2, T2-1, T2-2, T3-1, and T3-2. Serum levels of TSH, FT3, FT4, Anti-TPO, and Anti-TG were measured by three detection systems. No significant differences were found in TSH values between T1-1 group and the non-pregnant women group. However, the TSH value of the T1-1 group was significantly higher than that of T1-2 group (P<0.05). The TSH values in stage T3-2 increased significantly compared to those in stage T3-1 measured by three different assays (P<0.05). FT4 and FT3 values decreased significantly in the T2-1 and T2-2 stages compared to the previous stage (P<0.05). The serum levels of Anti-TPO and Anti-TG were not having significant differences between the six stages. The diagnosis and treatment of thyroid dysfunction during pregnancy should base on pregnancy- and method-specific reference intervals. More detailed staging is required to assess the thyroid function of pregnant women before 20 gestational weeks. Copyright © 2016 The Canadian Society of Clinical Chemists. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

End-tidal carbon dioxide and defibrillation success in out-of-hospital cardiac arrest.

PubMed

Savastano, Simone; Baldi, Enrico; Raimondi, Maurizio; Palo, Alessandra; Belliato, Mirko; Cacciatore, Elisa; Corazza, Valentina; Molinari, Simone; Canevari, Fabrizio; Danza, Aurora I; De Ferrari, Gaetano M; Iotti, Giorgio Antonio; Visconti, Luigi Oltrona

2017-12-01

Basing on the relationship between the quality of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and the responsiveness of VF to the defibrillation we aimed to assess whether the values of ETCO2 in the minute before defibrillation could predict the effectiveness of the shock. We retrospectively evaluated the reports generated by the manual monitor/defibrillator (Corpuls by GS Elektromedizinische Geräte G. Stemple GmbH, Germany) used for cases of VF cardiac arrest from January 2015 to December 2016. The mean ETCO2 value of the minute preceding the shock (METCO2 60 ) was computed. A blind evaluation of the effectiveness of each shock was provided by three cardiologists. A total amount of 207 shocks were delivered for 62 patients. When considering the three tertiles of METCO2 60 (T1:METCO2 60 ≤ 20mmHg; T2: 20mmHg < METCO2 60 ≤ 31mmHg and T3: METCO2 60 > 31mmHg) a statistically significant difference between the percentages of shock success was found (T1: 50%; T2: 63%; T3: 78%; Chi square p=0.003; p for trend <0.001). When the METCO2 60 was lower than 7mmHg no shock was effective and when the METCO260 was higher than 45mmHg no shock was ineffective. Shocks followed by ROSC were preceded by higher values of METCO2 60 as compared either to ineffective shocks or effective ones without ROSC. This is the first demonstration of the relation between ETCO2 and defibrillation effectiveness. Our findings stress the pivotal role of High Quality CPR, monitored via ETCO2, and suggest ETCO2 monitoring as an additional weapon to guide defibrillation. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Cardiac biomarker changes in camels (Camelus dromedarius) secondary to road transportation.

PubMed

Tharwat, Mohamed; Al-Sobayil, Fahd; Buczinski, Sébastien

2013-03-01

Little is known about cardiac biomarkers in camels despite their extensive use as draft animals. This study was designed to establish reference ranges for the cardiac biomarkers cardiac troponin I (cTnI) and creatine kinase myocardial b fraction (CK-MB) in healthy camels and to investigate their changes in response to road transportation. Twenty-five healthy camels transported for a 5 h round-trip journey. None of the camels had evidence of cardiac abnormalities on cardiac auscultation, echocardiography or electrocardiography. Three blood samples were obtained from each camel: 24 h before transportation (T0), within 2 h after unloading (T1) and 24 h after transportation (T2). The mean cTnI concentration in the camels was 0.032 ± 0.023 ng/mL. All the camels had resting cTnI concentrations of <0.08 ng/mL. At T1, the cTnI concentration was significantly higher (P < 0.001) in all 25 camels compared to values at T0. The CK-MB concentration in the camels was 0.19 ± 0.05 ng/mL. All the camels had resting CK-MB concentrations of <0.33 ng/mL. At T1, the CK-MB concentration was higher in 3/25 camels compared to values at both T0 and T2. Concerning the hematobiochemical variables, significant increases were detected at T1 in total white blood cells, total protein, globulin, magnesium and phosphorus. Cardiac troponin I, CK-MB and all the hematobiochemical parameters had returned to their pre-transport values at T2. 5 h road transportation might have transient adverse effects on the cardiac muscle of healthy camels. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Some physiological measurements on growth, pod yields and polyamines in leaves of chili plants (Capsicum annuum cv. Hua Reua) in relation to applied organic manures and chemical fertilisers.

PubMed

Rapatsa, J; Terapongtanakorn, S

2010-03-15

The experiment was carried out at the Faculty of Agriculture, Ubon Ratchathani University during November 2006 to July 2007. A Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with four replications was used. Six treatments were allocated into two experimental fields, i.e., field A, animal manures added soil. Field B, chemical fertilizers added soil and both fields have been used for chili cultivation for more than 5 years and they belong to Warin soil series (Oxic Paleustults). The results showed that mean values of soil pH and organic matter % of field A were much higher than field B but mean values of nitrogen % and phosphorus were much higher for field B than field A. Exchangeable potassium were inadequately available in all treatments. All treatments of field B gave excessive amounts of available phosphorus at a toxic level. T3 of field A gave higher plant height, total dry weight plant(-1), pod fresh and dry weights plant(-1) than T5 of field B. Of overall results in terms of growth and yields of chili plants, field A gave much better advantages over field B. The CO2 uptake and CO2 in leaves were higher for field A than field B. Polyamines of putrescine (Put), spermidine (Spd) and spermine (Spm) of T2 were affected by stress conditions due to previous applied chemical fertilisers. Available phosphorus mean values in most treatments were excessively available. Amounts of polyamines in chili leaves due to the added organic manure and chemical fertilizers (T3 up to T6) were not cleared.

Exploring for the safer ventilation method in laparoscopic urologic patients? Conventional or low tidal?

PubMed

Ela, Yüksel; Bakı, Elif Doğan; Ateş, Mutlu; Kokulu, Serdar; Keleş, İbrahim; Karalar, Mustafa; Şenay, Hasan; Sıvacı, Remziye Gül

2014-11-01

To study the effects of low tidal volume with positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) on arterial blood gases of patients undergoing laparoscopic urologic surgeries. Eighty-six laparoscopic urologic patients were enrolled in this study. Patients were randomized into two groups according to the ventilatory settings. In the conventional group (Group C) (n=43), the tidal volume was 10 mL/kg, and the PEEP was set at 0 cm of H2O. In the low tidal volume with PEEP group (Group LP), the tidal volume was 6 mL/kg, with PEEP of 5 cm of H2O. In both groups total minute volume was 6 L/kg. Peak and plateau airway pressure (PPEAK and PPLAT, respectively) and arterial blood gases were recorded before pneumoperitoneum (PNP) (T1) and the first and third hour (T3) after PNP induction and also after extubation in the intensive care unit. Additionally, heart rate, mean arterial pressure, and peripheral O2 saturation of hemoglobin were recorded. Heart rate, PPEAK, and PPLAT values were similar in both groups. Partial arterial O2 pressure values measured postoperatively were significantly higher in Group LP, whereas those measured before PNP induction were similar (P=.014 and P=.056, respectively). Compared with the baseline, partial arterial CO2 pressure values measured at T1 and at T3 after PNP induction were significantly higher in Group C than in Group LP (P<.001). The pH values of Group C at T1 and at T3 postoperatively were significantly lower than the values of Group LP (P<.001). Extubation times were significantly lower in Group LP. The results of the present study suggest that low tidal volume with PEEP application may be a good alternative for preventing high CO2 levels and yielding better oxygenation and lower extubation times in patients undergoing prolonged laparoscopic urology.

Zinc and sulfur isotope variation in sphalerite from carbonate-hosted zinc deposits, Cantabria, Spain

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pašava, Jan; Tornos, Fernando; Chrastný, Vladislav

2014-10-01

We studied zinc and sulfur isotopes and the chemical composition of sphalerite samples from Picos de Europa (Aliva mine) and sphalerite and hydrozincite samples from La Florida mine, two carbonate-hosted Mississippi Valley-type (MVT) deposits located in northern Spain; despite being close, they are hosted in carbonatic rocks of different ages, Lower Carboniferous and Lower Cretaceous, respectively. The two generations of sphalerite at Picos de Europa show different δ66Zn values (stage 1 sphalerite +0.24 per mil and stage 2 sphalerite from -0.75 to +0.08 per mil). Both generations also differ in the sulfur isotope composition (stage 1 has δ34S = +6.6 and stage 2 has δ34S = -0.9 to +2.9 per mil) and the chemical composition (stage 1 sphalerite, compared to stage 2 sphalerite, is significantly enriched in Pb, As, Mn, Sb, slightly enriched in Ag, Ni, and Cu and depleted in Co, Ga, Tl, Te, Ge, and Sn). We suggest that Zn isotope fractionation was controlled predominantly by pH and T changes. High Zn isotope values reflect rapid precipitation of sphalerite from higher-temperature acidic fluids that carried Zn mostly as chloride species after interaction with carbonate rocks while lower Zn isotope values most likely resulted from a longer precipitation process from fluid at higher pH and decreasing T that carried dominantly Zn sulfide species. At La Florida, sphalerite samples show light 66Zn-depleted signatures with δ66Zn values from -0.80 to -0.01 per mil (mostly between -0.80 and -0.24 per mil) and δ34S values from +10.7 to +15.7 per mil without any relationship between the δ66Zn and δ34S values. Here, the variation in Zn isotope values is interpreted as related to mixing of fluids from two reservoirs. The Zn was carried by a single deep-seated and higher T (~250-320 °C) fluid, and precipitation took place after mixing with a connate S-rich fluid in a system with mH2S > mZn2+ as a result of change in pH, T, and Zn predominant species. The light δ66Zn accompanied by heavy δ34S values resulted from fractionation of Zn aqueous sulfides at near-neutral pH and decreasing T. Hydrozincite samples show much heavier δ66Zn values (+0.21 to +0.33 per mil), consistent with fractionation during supergene processes.

Europium-engineered iron oxide nanocubes with high T1 and T2 contrast abilities for MRI in living subjects

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Lijiao; Zhou, Zijian; Liu, Hanyu; Wu, Changqiang; Zhang, Hui; Huang, Guoming; Ai, Hua; Gao, Jinhao

2015-04-01

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agents with both positive (T1) and negative (T2) contrast abilities are needed in clinical diagnosis for fault-free accurate detection of lesions. We report a facile synthesis of europium-engineered iron oxide (EuIO) nanocubes as T1 and T2 contrast agents for MRI in living subjects. The Eu(iii) oxide-embedded iron oxide nanoparticles significantly increase the T1 relaxivity with an enhanced positive contrast effect. EuIO nanocubes with 14 nm in diameter showed a high r1 value of 36.8 mM-1 s-1 with respect to total metal ions (Fe + Eu), which is about 3 times higher than that of Fe3O4 nanoparticles with similar size. Moreover, both r1 and r2 values of EuIO nanocubes can be tuned by varying their sizes and Eu doping ratios. After citrate coating, EuIO nanocubes can provide enhanced T1 and T2 contrast effects in small animals, particularly in the cardiac and liver regions. This work may provide an insightful strategy to design MRI contrast agents with both positive and negative contrast abilities for biomedical applications.Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agents with both positive (T1) and negative (T2) contrast abilities are needed in clinical diagnosis for fault-free accurate detection of lesions. We report a facile synthesis of europium-engineered iron oxide (EuIO) nanocubes as T1 and T2 contrast agents for MRI in living subjects. The Eu(iii) oxide-embedded iron oxide nanoparticles significantly increase the T1 relaxivity with an enhanced positive contrast effect. EuIO nanocubes with 14 nm in diameter showed a high r1 value of 36.8 mM-1 s-1 with respect to total metal ions (Fe + Eu), which is about 3 times higher than that of Fe3O4 nanoparticles with similar size. Moreover, both r1 and r2 values of EuIO nanocubes can be tuned by varying their sizes and Eu doping ratios. After citrate coating, EuIO nanocubes can provide enhanced T1 and T2 contrast effects in small animals, particularly in the cardiac and liver regions. This work may provide an insightful strategy to design MRI contrast agents with both positive and negative contrast abilities for biomedical applications. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available. See DOI: 10.1039/c5nr00774g

Near-infrared spectroscopy monitoring during immediate transition after birth: time to obtain cerebral tissue oxygenation.

PubMed

Ziehenberger, Evelyn; Urlesberger, Berndt; Binder-Heschl, Corinna; Schwaberger, Bernhard; Baik-Schneditz, Nariae; Pichler, Gerhard

2018-06-01

Feasibility of cerebral tissue oxygenation measurements immediately after birth has been published starting with first values 2 min after birth. Aim of this study was to evaluate, the time periods from birth and from arrival at the resuscitation table to obtain the first cerebral tissue oxygenation values with two different near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) devices. The present study is an analysis of exploratory parameters of two prospective observational studies. Cerebral tissue oxygen saturation was measured by the NIRO 200NX measuring "cerebral-tissue-oxygenation-index" (cTOI) or the INVOS5100C measuring "cerebral-regional-oxygen-saturation" (crSO 2 ). Four time periods (T) were defined: T1 birth to arrival at resuscitation table, T2 arrival to application of NIRS sensor, T3 application to first displayed cTOI or crSO 2 value, and T4 from arrival at resuscitation table to first displayed values. Additionally, we compared first displayed values of cTOI and crSO 2 . Thirty neonates were included. Twenty-four were term and six late-preterm neonates. Fifteen neonates measured with NIRO were compared to 15 measured with INVOS. T1 was 49 (6-163) s with NIRO versus 59 (15-87) s with INVOS, T2 14 (4-20) s versus 12 (15-18) s, T3 33 (13-138) s versus 17 (6-290) s and T4 46 (20-153) s and 34 (14-300) s. The first displayed value tended to be higher for cTOI [54% (18-80)] compared to crSO 2 [35% (15-87)]. There were no significant differences between devices in time periods and first values displayed. Cerebral tissue oxygenation can be measured within 1 min after arriving at the resuscitation table in term and preterm neonates after birth without difference between devices.

Controlled retrospective study of the effects of eyedrops containing phenylephrine hydrochloride and scopolamine hydrobromide on mean arterial blood pressure in anesthetized dogs.

PubMed

Martin-Flores, Manuel; Mercure-McKenzie, Tara M; Campoy, Luis; Erb, Hollis N; Ludders, John W; Gleed, Robin D

2010-12-01

To determine whether dogs that received eyedrops containing phenylephrine and scopolamine would have a higher mean arterial blood pressure (MAP) when anesthetized than would dogs that did not receive the eyedrops. 37 nondiabetic and 29 diabetic dogs anesthetized for phacoemulsification and 15 nondiabetic dogs anesthetized for corneal ulcer repair (control dogs). Medical records were reviewed to identify study dogs. Dogs undergoing phacoemulsification received 2 types of eyedrops (10% phenylephrine hydrochloride and 0.3% scopolamine hydrobromide) 4 times during a 2-hour period prior to the procedure. Control dogs did not receive these eyedrops. Heart rate and MAP were measured before surgery in all dogs 10 and 5 minutes before, at the time of (t0), and 5 (t5) and 10 (t10) minutes after atracurium administration. MAP was greater in the 2 groups that received the eyedrops than in the control group at t0 and t5; at t10, it was greater only for the nondiabetic dogs that received eyedrops. Nine nondiabetic dogs and 1 diabetic dog anesthetized for phacoemulsification had at least 1 MAP value>131 mm Hg; 73% of MAP values>131 mm Hg were detected within 10 minutes after atracurium administration. At no time did a control dog have an MAP value>131 mm Hg. Anesthetized dogs pretreated with eyedrops containing phenylephrine and scopolamine had higher MAP values than dogs that did not receive the eyedrops, suggesting the drops caused hypertension. Atracurium may interact with the eyedrops and contribute to the hypertension.

Influence of composite type and light irradiance on color stability after immersion in different beverages.

PubMed

Alberton Da Silva, Victória; Alberton Da Silva, Simone; Pecho, Oscar E; Bacchi, Atais

2018-06-19

The aim of this study was to evaluate the color stability of two resin-based composites photo-activated by two light curing units (LCU) with different irradiances. Hundred disc-shaped specimens (2-mm thick) of a nanofilled (FZ- Filtek TM Z350 XT, 3M ESPE) and a microhybrid (ED-Empress ® Direct, Ivoclar Vivadent) composites were photo-activated with two LCU: Valo ® Cordless, Ultradent (VA-1800 mW/cm 2 ) or Radii-cal, SDI (RA-900 mW/cm 2 ). Samples (n = 5) were immersed during 12 days in distilled water (WT), orange juice (OJ), red wine (RW), coffee (CF), or Brazilian tea (BT). CIELAB coordinates were obtained using a spectrophotometer (Easyshade 4.0, Vita Zahnfabrik) before (T 0 ) and after (T 1 ) immersion. CIEDE2000 color difference (ΔE 00 ) and whiteness index for dentistry (WI D ) were calculated. Data was analyzed by two-way ANOVA and Tukey's test (α = 0.05%). FZ light-activated by VA showed higher L* and WI D values (T 0 ) and lower ΔE 00 values after immersion in WT, OJ, and RW. However, there was no effect of both factors on ΔE 00 when samples were immersed in BT and CF. ED light-activated by RA showed significant higher C* values (p ≤ .05). The nanofilled composite photo-activated with higher irradiance showed greater L* and WI D values and better color stability. However, all samples immersed in colored beverages showed ΔE 00 values above the acceptability threshold. Initial color of resin-based composites can change after immersion in staining beverages. However, the best color stability was obtained by the nanocomposite photo-activated by a light-curing unit of higher irradiance. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

KCNQ1 gene polymorphisms are associated with the therapeutic efficacy of repaglinide in Chinese type 2 diabetic patients.

PubMed

Dai, Xing-Ping; Huang, Qiong; Yin, Ji-Ye; Guo, Yu; Gong, Zhi-Cheng; Lei, Min-Xiang; Jiang, Tie-Jian; Zhou, Hong-Hao; Liu, Zhao-Qian

2012-05-01

The present study evaluated the effects of KCNQ1 rs2237892 and rs2237895 polymorphisms on repaglinide efficacy in Chinese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). In all, 367 T2DM patients and 214 controls were genotyped. Forty of the T2DM patients were randomly selected to undergo 8 weeks repaglinide treatment. The frequency of the rs2237892 allele was lower in the T2DM patients than in the control group (P < 0.05). The frequency of the rs2237895 C allele was higher in T2DM patients than in healthy control subjects (P < 0.05). Diabetic patients with the rs2237892 risk C allele had lower fasting insulin levels (P < 0.01) and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR; P < 0.01) values than carriers of the T allele. Diabetic patients with the rs2237895 risk C allele had higher fasting plasma glucose (P < 0.01), postprandial plasma glucose (PPG) levels (P < 0.01) and HOMA-IR values (P < 0.01) than those with the A allele. Following repaglinide treatment, those T2DM patients with the rs2237892 T allele and rs2237895 C allele were more likely to have a positive response to repaglinide in terms of PPG levels (P < 0.05) than T2DM patients with the rs2237892 CC and rs2237895 AA genotypes. In conclusion, KCNQ1 rs2237892 and rs2237895 polymorphisms were found to be associated with the therapeutic efficacy of repaglinide in Chinese T2DM patients. © 2012 The Authors Clinical and Experimental Pharmacology and Physiology © 2012 Blackwell Publishing Asia Pty Ltd.

Delayed gadolinium-enhanced MRI of cartilage (dGEMRIC) and T2 mapping at 3T MRI of the wrist: Feasibility and clinical application.

PubMed

Rehnitz, Christoph; Klaan, Bastian; Burkholder, Iris; von Stillfried, Falko; Kauczor, Hans-Ulrich; Weber, Marc-André

2017-02-01

To assess the feasibility of delayed gadolinium-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of cartilage (dGEMRIC) and T 2 mapping for biochemical imaging of the wrist at 3T. Seventeen patients with wrist pain (mean age, 41.4 ± 13.1 years) including a subgroup with chondromalacia (n = 11) and 15 healthy volunteers (26.0 ± 2.2 years) underwent dGEMRIC and T 2 mapping at 3T. For dGEMRIC, the optimum time window after contrast-injection (gadopentetate dimeglumine) was defined as the plateau of the T 1 curve of repeated measurements 15-90 minutes postinjection and assessed in all volunteers. Reference values of healthy-appearing cartilage from all individuals and values in areas of chondromalacia were assessed using region-of-interest analyses. Receiver-operating-characteristic analyses were applied to assess discriminatory ability between damaged and normal cartilage. The optimum time window was 45-90 minutes, and the 60-minute timepoint was subsequently used. In chondromalacia, dGEMRIC values were lower (551 ± 84 msec, P < 0.001), and T 2 values higher (63.9 ± 17.7, P = 0.001) compared to healthy-appearing cartilage of the same patient. Areas under the curve did not significantly differ between dGEMRIC (0.91) and T 2 mapping (0.99; P = 0.17). In healthy-appearing cartilage of volunteers and patients, mean dGEMRIC values were 731.3 ± 47.1 msec and 674.6 ± 72.1 msec (P = 0.01), and mean T 2 values were 36.5 ± 5 msec and 41.1 ± 3.2 msec (P = 0.009), respectively. At 3T, dGEMRIC and T 2 mapping are feasible for biochemical cartilage imaging of the wrist. Both techniques allow separation and biochemical assessment of thin opposing cartilage surfaces and can distinguish between healthy and damaged cartilage. 3 J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2017;45:381-389. © 2016 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.

Diagnostic Value of Cerebrospinal Fluid T-SPOT.TB for Tuberculousis Meningitis in China.

PubMed

Li, Xue Lian; Xie, Na; Wang, Song Wang; Wu, Qian Hong; Ma, Yan; Shu, Wei; Chen, Hong Mei; Zhang, Li Qun; Wu, Xiao Guang; Ma, Li Ping; Che, Nan Ying; Gao, Meng Qiu

2017-09-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic value of the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) T-SPOT.TB test for the diagnosis of TB meningitis (TBM). A retrospective analysis of 96 patients with manifested meningitis was conducted; T-SPOT.TB test was performed for diagnosing TBM to determine the diagnostic sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV). A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was also drawn to assess the diagnostic accuracy. The sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV of CSF T-SPOT.TB test were 97.8%, 78.0%, 80.3%, and 97.5%, respectively, for 52 patients (54.2%) of the 96 enrolled patients. The area under the curve (AUC) was 0.910, and the sensitivities of CSF T-SPOT.TB for patients with stages I, II, and III of TBM were 96.7%, 97.2%, and 98.9%, respectively. CSF T-SPOT.TB test is a rapid and accurate diagnostic method with higher sensitivity and specificity for diagnosing TBM. Copyright © 2017 The Editorial Board of Biomedical and Environmental Sciences. Published by China CDC. All rights reserved.

Introduction of High Throughput Magnetic Resonance T2-Weighted Image Texture Analysis for WHO Grade 2 and 3 Gliomas.

PubMed

Kinoshita, Manabu; Sakai, Mio; Arita, Hideyuki; Shofuda, Tomoko; Chiba, Yasuyoshi; Kagawa, Naoki; Watanabe, Yoshiyuki; Hashimoto, Naoya; Fujimoto, Yasunori; Yoshimine, Toshiki; Nakanishi, Katsuyuki; Kanemura, Yonehiro

2016-01-01

Reports have suggested that tumor textures presented on T2-weighted images correlate with the genetic status of glioma. Therefore, development of an image analyzing framework that is capable of objective and high throughput image texture analysis for large scale image data collection is needed. The current study aimed to address the development of such a framework by introducing two novel parameters for image textures on T2-weighted images, i.e., Shannon entropy and Prewitt filtering. Twenty-two WHO grade 2 and 28 grade 3 glioma patients were collected whose pre-surgical MRI and IDH1 mutation status were available. Heterogeneous lesions showed statistically higher Shannon entropy than homogenous lesions (p = 0.006) and ROC curve analysis proved that Shannon entropy on T2WI was a reliable indicator for discrimination of homogenous and heterogeneous lesions (p = 0.015, AUC = 0.73). Lesions with well-defined borders exhibited statistically higher Edge mean and Edge median values using Prewitt filtering than those with vague lesion borders (p = 0.0003 and p = 0.0005 respectively). ROC curve analysis also proved that both Edge mean and median values were promising indicators for discrimination of lesions with vague and well defined borders and both Edge mean and median values performed in a comparable manner (p = 0.0002, AUC = 0.81 and p < 0.0001, AUC = 0.83, respectively). Finally, IDH1 wild type gliomas showed statistically lower Shannon entropy on T2WI than IDH1 mutated gliomas (p = 0.007) but no difference was observed between IDH1 wild type and mutated gliomas in Edge median values using Prewitt filtering. The current study introduced two image metrics that reflect lesion texture described on T2WI. These two metrics were validated by readings of a neuro-radiologist who was blinded to the results. This observation will facilitate further use of this technique in future large scale image analysis of glioma.

Second to Fourth Digit Ratio and Numerical Competence in Children

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fink, Bernhard; Brookes, Helen; Neave, Nick; Manning, John T.; Geary, David C.

2006-01-01

The ratio between the 2nd and 4th fingers (2D:4D)--a potential proxy for prenatal testosterone (T) exposure--shows a sex difference, with males usually having lower mean values; the latter potentially indicates higher prenatal T exposure. We studied relations between 2D:4D and competencies in the domains of counting, number knowledge, and…

A comparison of multi-echo spin-echo and triple-echo steady-state T2 mapping for in vivo evaluation of articular cartilage.

PubMed

Juras, Vladimir; Bohndorf, Klaus; Heule, Rahel; Kronnerwetter, Claudia; Szomolanyi, Pavol; Hager, Benedikt; Bieri, Oliver; Zbyn, Stefan; Trattnig, Siegfried

2016-06-01

To assess the clinical relevance of T2 relaxation times, measured by 3D triple-echo steady-state (3D-TESS), in knee articular cartilage compared to conventional multi-echo spin-echo T2-mapping. Thirteen volunteers and ten patients with focal cartilage lesions were included in this prospective study. All subjects underwent 3-Tesla MRI consisting of a multi-echo multi-slice spin-echo sequence (CPMG) as a reference method for T2 mapping, and 3D TESS with the same geometry settings, but variable acquisition times: standard (TESSs 4:35min) and quick (TESSq 2:05min). T2 values were compared in six different regions in the femoral and tibial cartilage using a Wilcoxon signed ranks test and the Pearson correlation coefficient (r). The local ethics committee approved this study, and all participants gave written informed consent. The mean quantitative T2 values measured by CPMG (mean: 46±9ms) in volunteers were significantly higher compared to those measured with TESS (mean: 31±5ms) in all regions. Both methods performed similarly in patients, but CPMG provided a slightly higher difference between lesions and native cartilage (CPMG: 90ms→61ms [31%],p=0.0125;TESS 32ms→24ms [24%],p=0.0839). 3D-TESS provides results similar to those of a conventional multi-echo spin-echo sequence with many benefits, such as shortening of total acquisition time and insensitivity to B1 and B0 changes. • 3D-TESS T 2 mapping provides clinically comparable results to CPMG in shorter scan-time. • Clinical and investigational studies may benefit from high temporal resolution of 3D-TESS. • 3D-TESS T 2 values are able to differentiate between healthy and damaged cartilage.

The nutritional effect of Moringa oleifera fresh leaves as feed supplement on Rhode Island Red hen egg production and quality.

PubMed

Abou-Elezz Fouad Mohammed, Khaled; Sarmiento-Franco, Luis; Santos-Ricalde, Ronald; Solorio-Sanchez, Javier Francisco

2012-06-01

This study aimed to evaluate the potential of Moringa oleifera fresh leaves (MOL) as feed supplement on the performance and egg quality of Rhode Island Red (RIR) hens under the tropical conditions of Yucatan, Mexico. Forty-eight RIR hens were allocated in 12 floor pen replicates each with four birds. Thereafter, the replicates were divided into three groups which were corresponded to ad libitum feed (control), ad libitum feed supplemented with MOL T1 (AL + MOL) and restricted feed amount (20% lower than control) with MOL T2 (RCD + MOL), respectively. T1 (AL + MOL) had higher egg laying rate (71.4% versus 66.6%), higher daily egg mass production (45.4 versus 41.9 g/day), lower feed intake (121.3 versus 127.5 g/day) and better feed conversion ratio (2.8 versus 3.2 g feed:g egg) versus control. T2 / (RCD + MOL) had lower values of body weight, egg laying rate, egg weight and egg mass, and recorded better feed conversion ratio than the control group. The control group recorded a higher percentage of pecked eggs versus T1 and T2 (6.5% versus 1.2% and 2.0 %). Similar intake of MOL (3.1 and 3.4 g DM/day) was recorded in T1 (AL + MOL) and T2 (RCD + MOL). Yolk color was improved significantly in T1 (AL + MOL) than both control and T2 (RCD + MOL), while T2 (RCD + MOL) had eggs with lower yolk and higher albumen percentages than the other two ad libitum groups. The results suggest that MOL could be used successfully as sustainable tropical feed resource for RIR hens.

[Observation on the clinical application effects of skin distractor on the treatment of scars].

PubMed

Gui, W L; Yang, E; Zhang, H S

2017-03-20

Objective: To explore clinical application effects of skin distractor on the treatment of scars and to observe effects of skin distractor with different pull speeds on different parts scars of human body. Methods: One hundred and four patients with scars, conforming to the study criteria, were hospitalized in our unit from January 2014 to June 2015. Patients were divided into 2 mm/d group and 4 mm/d group according to the random number table, with 52 patients in each group. After admission, skin distractors were pasted on scars in face and neck, trunk, and extremities of patients in 2 groups, with inner edges of pasteboards close to outside edges of longer sides of scars. Skin distractors in 2 mm/d group and 4 mm/d group were pulled to scars axis direction as speeds of 2 mm/d and 4 mm/d, respectively. Pull time equals values of pull speeds divided by width of scars. Scars were resected after finishing pulling. Immediately after scars resection, skin distractors were pasted again with inner edges of pasteboards close to outside edges of longer sides of incision and removed when stitches were taken out. Scars of patients were scored by Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS), and Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale (POSAS) was used to record scores of patient scar assessment scale (PSAS), observer scar assessment scale (OSAS) and overall scores of patients and observers of scars of patients before and one year after scars resection. Data were processed with χ (2) test, independent samples t test, paired samples t test, independent samples non-parametric rank-sum test and paired samples non-parametric rank-sum test. Results: (1) Scores of all scars of patients in 2 groups before scars resection were close (with t values from -1.384 to 0.622, P values above 0.05), obviously higher than those of one year post scars resection (with t values from 11.085 to 24.835, P values below 0.01). Scores of scars in face and neck, trunk and extremities in 2 groups before scars resection were close (with Z values from -1.651 to -0.035, t values from -1.549 to 0.219, P values above 0.05), significantly higher than those of one year post scar resection (with Z values from -2.992 to -2.555, t values from 8.739 to 19.076, P values below 0.01). (2) Scores of all scars of patients in 2 mm/d group of one year post scars resection were lower than those in 4 mm/d group (with t values from -2.583 to -2.018, P values below 0.05). PSAS scores of scars in face and neck and trunk in 2 mm/d group of one year post scars resection were lower than those in 4 mm/d group (with Z values respectively -2.385 and -2.198, P values below 0.05), other scores of scars in face and neck and trunk of patients in 2 groups of one year post scars resection were close (with Z values from -1.841 to -0.363, P values above 0.05). VSS scores, PSAS scores, OSAS scores, patients' overall scores, and observers' overall scores in 2 mm/d groups were (4.6±0.8), (28±4), (28±4), (4.7±0.7), (4.8±1.4) points, respectively, lower than those in 4 mm/d group[(5.2±0.8), (32±4), (31±6), (5.5±1.2), (5.5±1.0) points, respectively, with t values from -3.712 to -2.105, P <0.05 or P <0.01]. Conclusions: Skin distractor has better effects on the treatment of scars, and treatment effects of skin distractor in extremities pulled by 2 mm/d are better than those pulled by 4 mm/d.

Classification of materials using nuclear magnetic resonance dispersion and/or x-ray absorption

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

Espy, Michelle A.; Matlashov, Andrei N.; Schultz, Larry J.

Methods for determining the identity of a substance are provided. A classification parameter set is defined to allow identification of substances that previously could not be identified or to allow identification of substances with a higher degree of confidence. The classification parameter set may include at least one of relative nuclear susceptibility (RNS) or an x-ray linear attenuation coefficient (LAC). RNS represents the density of hydrogen nuclei present in a substance relative to the density of hydrogen nuclei present in water. The extended classification parameter set may include T.sub.1, T.sub.2, and/or T.sub.1.rho. as well as at least one additional classificationmore » parameter comprising one of RNS or LAC. Values obtained for additional classification parameters as well as values obtained for T.sub.1, T.sub.2, and T.sub.1.rho. can be compared to known classification parameter values to determine whether a particular substance is a known material.« less

The development of form two mathematics i-Think module (Mi-T2)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yao, Foo Jing; Abdullah, Mohd Faizal Nizam Lee; Tien, Lee Tien

2017-05-01

This study aims to develop a training module i-THINK Mathematics Form Two (Mi-T2) to increase the higher-order thinking skills of students. The Mi-T2 training module was built based on the Sidek Module Development Model (2001). Constructivist learning theory, cognitive learning theory, i-THINK map and higher order thinking skills were the building blocks of the module development. In this study, researcher determined the validity and reliability of Mi-T2 module. The design being used in this study was descriptive study. To determine the needs of Mi-T2 module, questionnaires and literature review were used to collect data. When the need of the module was determined, the module was built and a pilot study was conducted to test the reliability of the Mi-T2 module. The pilot study was conducted at a secondary school in North Kinta, Perak. A Form Two class was selected to be the sample study through clustered random sampling. The pilot study was conducted for two months and one topic had been studied. The Mi-T2 module was evaluated by five expert panels to determine the content validity of the module. The instruments being used in the study were questionnaires about the necessity of the Mi-T2 module for guidance, questionnaires about the validity of the module and questionnaires concerning the reliability of the module. Statistical analysis was conducted to determine the validity and reliability coefficients of the Mi-T2 module. The content validity of Mi-T2 module was determined by Cohen's Kappa's (1968) agreement coefficient and the reliability of Mi-T2 module was determined by Cronbach Alpha's value scale. The content validity of Mi-T2 module was 0.89 and the Cronbach Alpha's value of Mi-T2 module was 0.911.

High Spatial Resolution and Temporally Resolved T2 * Mapping of Normal Human Myocardium at 7.0 Tesla: An Ultrahigh Field Magnetic Resonance Feasibility Study

PubMed Central

Hezel, Fabian; Thalhammer, Christof; Waiczies, Sonia; Schulz-Menger, Jeanette; Niendorf, Thoralf

2012-01-01

Myocardial tissue characterization using T2 * relaxation mapping techniques is an emerging application of (pre)clinical cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging. The increase in microscopic susceptibility at higher magnetic field strengths renders myocardial T2 * mapping at ultrahigh magnetic fields conceptually appealing. This work demonstrates the feasibility of myocardial T2 * imaging at 7.0 T and examines the applicability of temporally-resolved and high spatial resolution myocardial T2 * mapping. In phantom experiments single cardiac phase and dynamic (CINE) gradient echo imaging techniques provided similar T2 * maps. In vivo studies showed that the peak-to-peak B0 difference following volume selective shimming was reduced to approximately 80 Hz for the four chamber view and mid-ventricular short axis view of the heart and to 65 Hz for the left ventricle. No severe susceptibility artifacts were detected in the septum and in the lateral wall for T2 * weighting ranging from TE = 2.04 ms to TE = 10.2 ms. For TE >7 ms, a susceptibility weighting induced signal void was observed within the anterior and inferior myocardial segments. The longest T2 * values were found for anterior (T2 * = 14.0 ms), anteroseptal (T2 * = 17.2 ms) and inferoseptal (T2 * = 16.5 ms) myocardial segments. Shorter T2 * values were observed for inferior (T2 * = 10.6 ms) and inferolateral (T2 * = 11.4 ms) segments. A significant difference (p = 0.002) in T2 * values was observed between end-diastole and end-systole with T2 * changes of up to approximately 27% over the cardiac cycle which were pronounced in the septum. To conclude, these results underscore the challenges of myocardial T2 * mapping at 7.0 T but demonstrate that these issues can be offset by using tailored shimming techniques and dedicated acquisition schemes. PMID:23251708

Spectroscopic and Mechanical Properties of a New Generation of Bulk Fill Composites

PubMed Central

Monterubbianesi, Riccardo; Orsini, Giovanna; Tosi, Giorgio; Conti, Carla; Librando, Vito; Procaccini, Maurizio; Putignano, Angelo

2016-01-01

Objectives: The aims of this study were to in vitro evaluate the degree of conversion and the microhardness properties of five bulk fill resin composites; in addition, the performance of two curing lamps, used for composites polymerization, was also analyzed. Materials and Methods: The following five resin-based bulk fill composites were tested: SureFil SDR®, Fill Up!™, Filtek™, SonicFill™, and SonicFill2™. Samples of 4 mm in thickness were prepared using Teflon molds filled in one increment and light-polymerized using two LED power units. Ten samples for each composite were cured using Elipar S10 and 10 using Demi Ultra. Additional samples of SonicFill2, (3 and 5 mm-thick) were also tested. The degree of conversion (DC) was determined by Raman spectroscopy, while the Vickers microhardness (VMH) was evaluated using a microhardness tester. The experimental evaluation was carried out on top and bottom sides, immediately after curing (t0), and, on bottom, after 24 h (t24). Two-ways analysis of variance was applied to evaluate DC and VMH-values. In all analyses, the level of significance was set at p < 0.05. Results: All bulk fill resin composites recorded satisfactory DCs on top and bottom sides. At t0, the top of SDR and SonicFill2 showed the highest DCs-values (85.56 ± 9.52 and 85.47 ± 1.90, respectively), when cured using Elipar S10; using Demi Ultra, SonicFill2 showed the highest DCs-values (90.53 ± 2.18). At t0, the highest DCs-values of bottom sides were recorded by SDR (84.64 ± 11.68), when cured using Elipar S10, and Filtek (81.52 ± 4.14), using Demi Ultra. On top sides, Demi Ultra lamp showed significant higher DCs compared to the Elipar S10 (p < 0.05). SonicFill2 reached suitable DCs also on bottom of 5 mm-thick samples. At t0, VMH-values ranged between 24.4 and 69.18 for Elipar S10, and between 26.5 and 67.3 for Demi Ultra. Using both lamps, the lowest VMH-values were shown by SDR, while the highest values by SonicFill2. At t24, all DC and VMH values significantly increased. Conclusions: Differences in DC and VMH among materials are suggested to be material and curing lamp dependent. Even at t0, the three high viscosity bulk composites showed higher VMH than the flowable or dual curing composites. PMID:28082918

Spectroscopic and Mechanical Properties of a New Generation of Bulk Fill Composites.

PubMed

Monterubbianesi, Riccardo; Orsini, Giovanna; Tosi, Giorgio; Conti, Carla; Librando, Vito; Procaccini, Maurizio; Putignano, Angelo

2016-01-01

Objectives: The aims of this study were to in vitro evaluate the degree of conversion and the microhardness properties of five bulk fill resin composites; in addition, the performance of two curing lamps, used for composites polymerization, was also analyzed. Materials and Methods: The following five resin-based bulk fill composites were tested: SureFil SDR®, Fill Up!™, Filtek™, SonicFill™, and SonicFill2™. Samples of 4 mm in thickness were prepared using Teflon molds filled in one increment and light-polymerized using two LED power units. Ten samples for each composite were cured using Elipar S10 and 10 using Demi Ultra. Additional samples of SonicFill2, (3 and 5 mm-thick) were also tested. The degree of conversion (DC) was determined by Raman spectroscopy, while the Vickers microhardness (VMH) was evaluated using a microhardness tester. The experimental evaluation was carried out on top and bottom sides, immediately after curing (t0), and, on bottom, after 24 h (t24). Two-ways analysis of variance was applied to evaluate DC and VMH-values. In all analyses, the level of significance was set at p < 0.05. Results: All bulk fill resin composites recorded satisfactory DCs on top and bottom sides. At t0, the top of SDR and SonicFill2 showed the highest DCs-values (85.56 ± 9.52 and 85.47 ± 1.90, respectively), when cured using Elipar S10; using Demi Ultra, SonicFill2 showed the highest DCs-values (90.53 ± 2.18). At t0, the highest DCs-values of bottom sides were recorded by SDR (84.64 ± 11.68), when cured using Elipar S10, and Filtek (81.52 ± 4.14), using Demi Ultra. On top sides, Demi Ultra lamp showed significant higher DCs compared to the Elipar S10 ( p < 0.05). SonicFill2 reached suitable DCs also on bottom of 5 mm-thick samples. At t0, VMH-values ranged between 24.4 and 69.18 for Elipar S10, and between 26.5 and 67.3 for Demi Ultra. Using both lamps, the lowest VMH-values were shown by SDR, while the highest values by SonicFill2. At t24, all DC and VMH values significantly increased. Conclusions: Differences in DC and VMH among materials are suggested to be material and curing lamp dependent. Even at t0, the three high viscosity bulk composites showed higher VMH than the flowable or dual curing composites.

Regular monitoring of cytomegalovirus (CMV)-specific cell-mediated immunity in intermediate-risk kidney transplant recipients: predictive value of the immediate post-transplant assessment.

PubMed

Fernández-Ruiz, Mario; Giménez, Estela; Vinuesa, Víctor; Ruiz-Merlo, Tamara; Parra, Patricia; Amat, Paula; Montejo, Miguel; Paez-Vega, Aurora; Cantisán, Sara; Torre-Cisneros, Julián; Fortún, Jesús; Andrés, Amado; San Juan, Rafael; López-Medrano, Francisco; Navarro, David; María Aguado, José

2018-05-24

Previous studies on monitoring of post-transplant cytomegalovirus (CMV)-specific cell-mediated immunity (CMI) are limited by single-center designs and disparate risk categories. We aimed to assess the clinical value of a regular monitoring strategy in a large multicenter cohort of intermediate-risk kidney transplant (KT) recipients. We recruited 124 CMV-seropositive KT recipients with no T-cell-depleting induction preemptively managed at four Spanish institutions. CMV-specific interferon-γ-producing CD4 + and CD8 + T-cells were enumerated through the first post-transplant year by intracellular cytokine staining after stimulation with pp65 and IE-1 peptides (mean of 6 measurements per patient). The primary outcome was the occurrence of any CMV event (asymptomatic infection and/or disease). Optimal cut-off values for CMV-specific T-cells were calculated at baseline and day 15. Twelve-month cumulative incidence of CMV infection and/or disease was 47.6%. Patients with pre-transplant CMV-specific CD8 + T-cell count <1.0 cells/μL had higher risk of CMV events (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR]: 2.84; P-value = 0.054). When the CMI assessment was performed at the immediate post-transplant period (day 15), the presence of <2.0 CD8 + T-cells/μL (aHR: 2.18; P-value = 0.034) or <1.0 CD4 + T-cells/μL (aHR: 2.43; P-value = 0.016) also predicted the subsequent development of CMV event. In addition, lower counts of CMV-specific CD4 + (but not CD8 + ) T-cells at days 60 and 180 were associated with a higher incidence of late-onset events. Monitoring for CMV-specific CMI in intermediate-risk KT recipients must be regular to reflect dynamic changes in overall immunosuppression and individual susceptibility. The early assessment at post-transplant day 15 remains particularly informative. Copyright © 2018 European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Diagnostic value of T1-weighted gradient-echo in-phase images added to MRCP in differentiation of hepatolithiasis and intrahepatic pneumobilia.

PubMed

Erden, Ayşe; Haliloğlu, Nuray; Genç, Yasemin; Erden, Ilhan

2014-01-01

The purpose of this article is to determine the added diagnostic value of T1-weighted gradient-echo in-phase images obtained during MRCP in the detection and differentiation of hepatolithiasis and intrahepatic pneumobilia. Intrahepatic bile ducts in 47 patients were scored in terms of their possibility of containing biliary stone and air. MRI was performed with a 1-T system for 32 patients and with a 3-T system for 15 patients. Two radiologists independently reviewed two sets of MRI scans: set 1 included T2-weighted MRCP images, and set 2 included T2-weighted MRCP images plus T1-weighted gradient-echo in-phase images. The diagnostic performances of set 1 and set 2 in the evaluation of the bile ducts containing air or stone and bile ducts containing neither of them were analyzed using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) for clustered data. The sensitivities and specificities of both image sets to detect intrahepatic stone or air were also calculated and compared. For the diagnosis of hepatolithiasis, the AUC obtained from set 2 (0.983) was significantly higher than that obtained from set 1 (0.879; p = 0.037). For the diagnosis of pneumobilia, the AUC obtained from set 2 (0.965) was also significantly higher than that of set 1 (0.765; p = 0.002). With use of percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography, ERCP, and CT as the reference standards, the sensitivity of set 2 (97.1%; 95% CI, 91.1-100%) was significantly higher than that of set 1 (74.3%; 95% CI, 56.7-91.9%) in detecting intrahepatic stones (p = 0.011). For the detection of pneumobilia, the sensitivity of set 2 (98.5%; 95% CI, 95.4-100%) was also significantly higher than that of set 1 (70.8%; 95% CI, 57.7-83.3%; p = 0.000). The addition of T1-weighted gradient-echo in-phase images to standard MRCP sequences improves the detection and differentiation of hepatolithiasis and intrahepatic pneumobilia.

Role of the combination of FA and T2* parameters as a new diagnostic method in therapeutic evaluation of parkinson's disease.

PubMed

Fang, Yuan; Zheng, Tao; Liu, Lanxiang; Gao, Dawei; Shi, Qinglei; Dong, Yanchao; Du, Dan

2017-11-17

Simple diffusion delivery (SDD) has attained good effects with only tiny amounts of drugs. Fractional anisotropy (FA) and relaxation time T2* that indicate the integrity of fiber tracts and iron concentration within brain tissue were used to evaluate the therapeutic effect of SDD. To evaluate therapeutic effect of SDD in the Parkinson's disease (PD) rat model with FA and T2* parameters. Prospective case-control animal study. Thirty-two male Sprague Dawley rats (eight normal, eight PD, eight SDD, and eight subcutaneous injection rats). Single-shot spin echo echo-planar imaging and fast low-angle shot T 2 WI sequences at 3.0T. Parameters of FA and T2* on the treated side of the substantia nigra were measured to evaluate the therapeutic effect of SDD in a PD rat model. The effects of time on FA and T2* values were analyzed by repeated measurement tests. A one-way analysis of variance was conducted, followed by individual comparisons of the mean FA and T2* values at different timepoints. The FA values on the treated side of the substantia nigra in the SDD treatment group and subcutaneous injection treatment group were significantly higher at week 1 and lower at week 6 than that of the PD control group (SDD vs. PD, week 1, adjusted P = 0.012; subcutaneous vs. PD, week 1, adjusted P < 0.001; SDD vs. PD, week 6, adjusted P = 0.004; subcutaneous vs. PD, week 6, adjusted P = 0.024). The T2* parameter in the SDD treatment group and subcutaneous injection treatment group was significantly higher than that in the PD control group at week 6 (SDD vs. PD, adjusted P = 0.032; subcutaneous vs. PD, adjusted P < 0.001). The combination of FA and T2* parameters can potentially serve as a new effective evaluation method of the therapeutic effect of SDD. 1 Technical Efficacy: Stage 4 J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2017. © 2017 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.

Breath-hold black-blood T1rho mapping improves liver T1rho quantification in healthy volunteers.

PubMed

Wáng, Yì Xiáng J; Deng, Min; Lo, Gladys G; Liang, Dong; Yuan, Jing; Chen, Weitian

2018-03-01

Background Recent researches suggest that T1rho may be a non-invasive and quantitative technique for detecting and grading liver fibrosis. Purpose To compare a multi-breath-hold bright-blood fast gradient echo (GRE) imaging and a single breath-hold single-shot fast spin echo (FSE) imaging with black-blood effect for liver parenchyma T1rho measurement and to study liver physiological T1rho value in healthy volunteers. Material and Methods The institutional Ethics Committee approved this study. 28 healthy participants (18 men, 10 women; age = 29.6 ± 5.1 years) underwent GRE liver T1rho imaging, and 20 healthy participants (10 men, 10 women; age = 36.9 ± 10.3 years) underwent novel black-blood FSE liver T1rho imaging, both at 3T with spin-lock frequency of 500 Hz. The FSE technique allows simultaneous acquisition of four spin lock times (TSLs; 1 ms, 10 ms, 30 ms, 50msec) in 10 s. Results For FSE technique the intra-scan repeatability intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was 0.98; while the inter-scan reproducibility ICC was 0.82 which is better than GRE technique's 0.76. Liver T1rho value in women tended to have a higher value than T1rho values in men (FSE: 42.28 ± 4.06 ms for women and 39.13 ± 2.12 ms for men; GRE: 44.44 ± 1.62 ms for women and 42.36 ± 2.00 ms for men) and FSE technique showed liver T1rho value decreased slightly as age increased. Conclusion Single breath-hold black-blood FSE sequence has better scan-rescan reproducibility than multi-breath-hold bright-blood GRE sequence. Gender and age dependence of liver T1rho in healthy participants is observed, with young women tending to have a higher T1rho measurement.

Prognostic value of extravascular lung water and its potential role in guiding fluid therapy in septic shock after initial resuscitation.

PubMed

Wang, Hao; Cui, Na; Su, Longxiang; Long, Yun; Wang, Xiaoting; Zhou, Xiang; Chai, Wenzhao; Liu, Dawei

2016-06-01

To explore whether extravascular lung water (EVLW) provides a valuable prognostic tool guiding fluid therapy in septic shock patients after initial resuscitation. We performed a retrospective study of septic shock patients who achieved adequate initial fluid resuscitation with extended hemodynamic monitoring, analyzing the prognostic value of EVLW and whether fluid therapy for 24 (T24) or 24-48 hours (T24-48) after initial resuscitation with a recommended value of EVLW yielded a 28-day mortality advantage. One hundred five patients with septic shock were included in this study, 60 (57.1%) of whom died after 28 days. For 48 hours after initial resuscitation, the daily fluid balance (DFB; T24: 2494 ± 1091 vs 1965 ± 964 mL [P = .011] and T24-48: 2127 ± 783 vs 1588 ± 665 mL [P < .001]) and daily maximum values of the EVLW index (EVLWImax; T24: 13.9 ± 3.7 vs 11.5 ± 3.2 mL/kg [P < .001] and T24-48: 14.4 ± 5.3 vs 12.0 ± 4.4 mL/kg [P < .001]) were significantly higher in nonsurvivors than in survivors. In multivariate regression analysis, the DFB (T24: odds ratio [OR] 1.001 [P = .016] and T24-48: OR 1.001 [P = .008]), EVLWImax (T24: OR 2.158 [P = .002] and T24-48: OR 3.277 [P = .001]), blood lactate (T24: OR 1.368 [P = .021] and T24-48: OR 4.112 [P < .001]), and central venous blood oxygen saturation (T24: OR 0.893 [P = .013] and T24-48: OR 0.780 [P = .004]) were all independently associated with the 28-day mortality. A receiver operating characteristic analysis revealed that area under the curve values of 0.82 (95% confidence interval, 0.74-0.91; P < .001) and 0.90 (95% confidence interval, 0.83-0.96; P < .001) for EVLWImax ≥ 12.5 mL/kg (T24 and T24-48) predicted a 28-day mortality with sensitivities of 88% (80%-96%) and 95% (90%-100%) and specificities of 60% (46%-74%) and 76% (63%-89%).The EVLWImax was correlated with DFB with Spearman ρ values of 0.497 (T24: P < .001) and 0.650 (T24-48: P < .001). Cox survival and regression analyses demonstrated that EVLWImax ≥ 12.5 mL/kg (T24 and T24-48) was associated with higher risk and increased mortality, with adjusted ORs of 4.77 (P < .001) and 10.86 (P < .001). A higher EVLW in septic shock patients after initial resuscitation was associated with a more positive fluid balance and increased mortality, which is an independent predictor of the 28-day mortality in septic shock patients after initial resuscitation. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Growth and giant coercive field of spinel-structured Co3- x Mn x O4 thin films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kwak, Yongsu; Song, Jonghyun; Koo, Taeyeong

2016-08-01

We grew epitaxial thin films of CoMn2O4 and Co2MnO4 on Nb-doped SrTiO3(011) and SrTiO3(001) single crystal substrates using pulsed laser deposition. The magnetic Curie temperature ( T c ) of the Co2MnO4 thin films was ~176 K, which is higher than that of the bulk whereas CoMn2O4 thin films exhibited a value of T c (~151 K) lower than that of the bulk. For the Co2MnO4 thin films, the M - H loop showed a coercive field of ~0.7 T at 10 K, similar to the value for the bulk. However, the M -H loop of the CoMn2O4(0 ll) thin film grown on a Nb-doped SrTiO3(011) substrate exhibited a coercive field of ~4.5 T at 30 K, which is significantly higher than those of the Co2MnO4 thin film and bulk. This giant coercive field, only observed for the CoMn2O4(0 ll) thin film, can be attributed to the shape anisotropy and strong spin-orbit coupling.

Determination of minimum inhibitory concentrations of itraconazole, terbinafine and ketoconazole against dermatophyte species by broth microdilution method.

PubMed

Bhatia, V K; Sharma, P C

2015-01-01

Various antifungal agents both topical and systemic have been introduced into clinical practice for effectively treating dermatophytic conditions. Dermatophytosis is the infection of keratinised tissues caused by fungal species of genera Trichophyton, Epidermophyton and Microsporum, commonly known as dermatophytes affecting 20-25% of the world's population. The present study aims at determining the susceptibility patterns of dermatophyte species recovered from superficial mycoses of human patients in Himachal Pradesh to antifungal agents; itraconazole, terbinafine and ketoconazole. The study also aims at determining the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of these agents following the recommended protocol of Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) (M38-A2). A total of 53 isolates of dermatophytes (T. mentagrophyte-34 in no., T. rubrum-18 and M. gypseum-1) recovered from the superficial mycoses were examined. Broth microdilution method M38-A2 approved protocol of CLSI (2008) for filamentous fungi was followed for determining the susceptibility of dermatophyte species. T. mentagrophyte isolates were found more susceptible to both itraconazole and ketoconazole as compared to terbinafine (MIC50: 0.125 µg/ml for itraconazole, 0.0625 µg/ml for ketoconazole and 0.5 µg/ml for terbinafine). Three isolates of T. mentagrophytes (VBS-5, VBSo-3 and VBSo-73) and one isolate of T. rubrum (VBPo-9) had higher MIC values of itraconazole (1 µg/ml). Similarly, the higher MIC values of ketoconazole were observed in case of only three isolates of T. mentagrophyte (VBSo-30 = 2 µg/ml; VBSo-44, VBM-2 = 1 µg/ml). The comparative analysis of the three antifungal drugs based on t-test revealed that 'itraconazole and terbinafine' and 'terbinafine and ketoconazole' were found independent based on the P < 0.005 in case of T. mentagrophyte isolates. In case of T. rubrum, the similarity existed between MIC values of 'itraconazole and ketoconazole' and 'terbinafine and ketoconazole'. The MIC values observed in the present study based on standard protocol M38-A2 of CLSI 2008 might serve as reference for further studies covering large number of isolates from different geographic regions of the state. Such studies might reflect on the acquisition of drug resistance among isolates of dermatophyte species based on MIC values.

Retrospective 25-year follow-up of treatment outcomes in Angle Class III patients : Success versus failure.

PubMed

Wendl, Brigitte; Kamenica, A; Droschl, H; Jakse, N; Weiland, F; Wendl, T; Wendl, M

2017-03-01

Despite recommendations for early treatment of hereditary Angle Class III syndrome, late pubertal growth may cause a relapse requiring surgical intervention. This study was performed to identify predictors of successful Class III treatment. Thirty-eight Class III patients treated with a chincup were retrospectively analyzed. Data were collected from the data archive, cephalograms, and casts, including pretreatment (T0) and posttreatment (T1) data, as well as long-term follow-up data collected approximately 25 years after treatment (T2). Each patient was assigned to a success or a failure group. Data were analyzed based on time (T0, T1, T2), deviations from normal (Class I), and prognathism types (true mandibular prognathism, maxillary retrognathism, combined pro- and retrognathism). Compared to Class I normal values, the data obtained in both groups yielded 11 significant parameters. The success group showed values closer to normal at all times (T0, T1, T2) and vertical parameters decreased from T0 to T2. The failure group showed higher values for vertical and horizontal mandibular growth, as well as dentally more protrusion of the lower anterior teeth and more negative overjet at all times. In adittion, total gonial and upper gonial angle were higher at T0 and T1. A prognostic score-yet to be evaluated in clinical practice-was developed from the results. The failure group showed greater amounts of horizontal development during the years between T1 and T2. Treatment of true mandibular prognathism achieved better outcomes in female patients. Cases of maxillary retrognathism were treated very successfully without gender difference. Failure was clearly more prevalent, again without gender difference, among the patients with combined mandibular prognathism and maxillary retrognathism. Crossbite situations were observed in 44% of cases at T0. Even though this finding had been resolved by T1, it relapsed in 16% of the cases by T2. The failure rate increased in cases of combined mandibular prognathism and maxillary retrognathism. Precisely in these combined Class III situations, it should be useful to apply the diagnostic and prognostic parameters identified in the present study and to provide the patients with specific information about the increased risk of failure.

Quantitative evaluation of knee cartilage and meniscus destruction in patients with rheumatoid arthritis using T1ρ and T2 mapping.

PubMed

Meng, Xiang Hong; Wang, Zhi; Guo, Li; Liu, Xiu Chan; Zhang, Yu Wei; Zhang, Ze Wei; Ma, Xin Long

2017-11-01

To calculate T1ρ and T2 values of articular cartilage and menisci in knee joints of patients with RA, and compare the values between RA patients and healthy volunteers, to gain insight into the pathogenesis of cartilage and meniscus degradation in patients with RA. Nine patients with RA and knee joints symptoms were enrolled in the study, twenty healthy volunteers without knee joint diseases were included as controls. Sagittal fat-saturated T1ρ and T2 mapping images were obtained on a 3T MR scanner (GE750, GE Healthcare, Waukesha, WI), using a dedicated 8-channel knee coil. In the T1rho mapping sequence, the amplitude of the spin-lock pulse was 500Hz, spin lock durations=10/20/30/50ms. In the T2 mapping sequence,TR/TE were 1794/6.5, 13.4, 27, 40.7ms. Both sequences were performed with the following parameters: flip angle (FA)=90°, matrix: 320×256, FOV: 16×16cm 2 , slice thickness: 3mm, bandwidth: 62.5kHZ, and a total scan time of 5:11min. T1ρ- and T2-mapping images were used for the segmentation of the articular cartilage of the patella, femoral trochlea, medial and lateral femoral condyle, medial and lateral tibial plateau. These images were also used for the segmentation of the anterior and posterior horns of the medial and lateral menisci with livewire semi-automatic segmentation algorithm of MATLAB. A Mann-Whitney U test was performed to compare the T1ρ and T2 values of the above mentioned regions between the two groups. T1ρ (Z=-3.913 to -2.121, P=0.000-0.034) and T2 (Z=-3.866 to -2.216, P=0.000-0.026) values of knee cartilage in patients with RA were higher than that in healthy volunteers, except the cartilage of the patella (T1ρ: Z=-1.273, P=0.203,T2: Z=-0.236, P=0.814) and lateral tibial plateau (T1ρ:Z=-1.037, P=0.317). The T1ρ (Z=-1.462 to 0.572, P=0.095-0.908) and T2 (Z=-1.461 to 0.278, P=0.153-0.764) values of medial and lateral menisci showed no difference between the two groups. Patients with RA exhibit diffuse knee cartilage destruction in the medial and lateral tibiofemoral joints and in the femoral trochlea. However, we found no increase in T1ρ and T2 values in menisci, this finding warrants further investigation. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

[Structural change of the corpus callosum fibers in toddlers with autism spectrum disorder: two-year follow-up].

PubMed

Chang, C; Qiu, N N; Xiao, T; Xiao, X; Chu, K K; Li, Y; Wu, Q R; Fang, H; Ke, X Y

2017-12-02

Objective: To conduct a follow-up investigation of structural changes of the corpus callosum fibers of toddlers (2 to 5 years of age) with autism spectrum disorder(ASD) and to explore the associations with clinical symptoms. Method: In this prospective randomized controlled study, ASD children who were diagnosed in the Child Mental Health Research Center, Nanjing Brain Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing Medical University from May 2011 to November 2012 were included in the ASD group, and developmentally delayed children were included in the control group (DD group). Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) data from the two groups were obtained at two age levels: 2-3 years of age, and 4-5 years of age. Region of interest analysis was applied to assess characteristic values of total area and sub-regions of corpus callosum: the fraction anisotropy (FA), the mean diffusivity (MD), the radial diffusivity (RD) and the axial diffusivity (AD). All children were assessed using the Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R) and Autism Treatment Evaluation Checklist (ATEC). The characteristic values of total area and sub-regions of corpus callosum of ASD group at two age levels were analyzed by paired sample t test; the characteristic values of total area and sub-regions of corpus callosum of ASD group and DD group were analyzed by independent-sample t test; the correlations between FA values of the total area and sub-regions of corpus callosum and ADI-R or ATEC scores were analyzed by Pearson correlation analysis. Result: Forty cases meeting inclusion criteria were enrolled in ASD group, and 31 eligible cases were enrolled in the control group. Four children in the ASD group were lost to follow-up, and 5 children in the control group were lost to follow-up. Longitudinal comparison between the two age subgroups of ASD patients showed that the FA values of the total corpus callosum increased (0.499 55±0.027 59 vs . 0.505 83±0.086 64, t= 4.88, P <0.05), but MD values, RD values and AD values of the total corpus callosum area decreased (0.000 89±0.000 03 vs . 0.000 81±0.000 14, 0.000 61±0.000 04 vs. 0.000 55±0.000 09, 0.001 43±0.000 03 vs . 0.001 38±0.000 03, t= 9.31, 7.90, 8.66, P <0.05 for all comparisons). In the area of corpus callosum genu, FA and AD values increased ( t= 5.59, 8.48, P <0.05 for both comparisons), but MD and RD values decreased ( t= 12.67, 11.28, P <0.05 for both comparisns). In the area of corpus callosum body, FA and RD values increased( t= 5.46, 8.48, P <0.05 for both comparisons), but MD and AD values decreased ( t= 8.08, 6.22, P <0.05 for both comparisons). In the area of corpus callosum splenium, MD, RD and AD values decreased ( t= 6.81, 4.44, 5.51, P < 0.05 for all comparisons). Among the participants 2 to 3 years of age, there were no significantly differences in FA values of total area and sub-regions of corpus callosum between ASD group and the DD group ( P > 0.05 for all comparisons); as compared with the DD group, ASD group had higher AD values of total area and splenium of corpus callosum (0.001 43±0.000 03 vs . 0.001 40±0.000 04, 0.001 34±0.000 03 vs . 0.001 32±0.000 04, t= 1.56, 1.14, P < 0.05 for both comparisons); ASD group had lower AD values but higher RD and MD values of corpus callosum genu ( t= 0.07, 0.55, 0.07, P < 0.05 for all comparisons); ASD group had lower RD values of corpus callosum body ( t= 0.07, P < 0.05). Among the participants 4 to 5 years of age, as compared with the DD group, ASD group had higher FA value of total corpus callosum area(0.505 83±0.086 64 vs . 0.483 77±0.099 30, t= 8.56, P < 0.05), lower RD value of total corpus callosum(0.000 55±0.000 09 vs . 0.000 56±0.000 12, t= 14.44, P < 0.05), lower RD values of corpus callosum body ( t= 2.20, P < 0.05), higher FA values ( t= 3.35, P < 0.05) but lower AD values of corpus callosum splenium ( t= 2.20, P < 0.05). A correlation analysis between FA values of total area and sub-regions of corpus callosum and clinical variables showed that the FA values of total area and splenium of corpus callosum in ASD group at 2 to 3 years of age were negatively correlated with the scores of language skills in ATEC ( r=- 0.35,-0.36, P < 0.05 for both comparisons). And after two years, FA values of total corpus callosum were positively correlated with the scores of social communication in ATEC ( r= 0.34, P < 0.05). There was no significant correlation between FA values of sub-regions of corpus callosum and the scores of ATEC ( P > 0.05 for all comparisons). There was no significant correlation between FA values of total area and sub-regions of corpus callosum and the scores of ADI-R ( P > 0.05 for all comparisons). Conclusion: The fiber structure of corpus callosum was still in the process of maturing during the age of 2 to 5 years; however, compared with DD group, ASD group had more extensive structural abnormalities of the corpus callosum fibers as age increased, and the structural abnormalities had correlation with the core symptoms of ASD. Trial registration Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, ChiCTR-OPC-17011995.

Three dimensional orbital magnetic resonance T2-mapping in the evaluation of patients with Graves' ophthalmopathy.

PubMed

Hou, Kai; Ai, Tao; Hu, Wei-Kun; Luo, Ban; Wu, Yi-Ping; Liu, Rong

2017-12-01

The clinical application of orbital magnetic resonance (MR) T2-mapping imaging in detecting the disease activity of Graves' ophthalmopathy (GO), and the predictive values of therapy response to intravenous glucocorticoid (ivGC) were investigated. Approved by the local institutional review board (IRB), 106 consecutive patients with GO were included in this prospective study. All subjects were divided into two groups according to the patients' clinical activity score (CAS): the CAS positive group (CAS ≥3) or the CAS negative group (CAS <3). T2 relaxation time of extraocular muscles (T2RT; ms) and the areas of four extra-ocular muscles (AEOMs; mm 2 ) were measured by 3D T2-mapping MR sequence before and after methylprednisolone treatment, so as the CAS and some ophthalmic examinations including visual acuity, intra-ocular pressure, eyeball movement, diplopia and proptosis. In addition, 24 healthy volunteers were recruited as the control group. The mean T2RT and AEOMs in CAS positive group were higher than those in CAS negative group. Both CAS positive and negative groups had significantly higher mean T2RT and AEOMs than the control group (P<0.01). There was a positive correlation between T2RT and AEOMs values in GO patients, both of them had a positive correlation with CAS and the ophthalmic examinations. It was concluded that to evaluate the activity of GO, CAS was mostly related to inflammation symptoms of ocular surface, more than that, T2RT and AEOMs were also related to abnormal findings of the ophthalmic examinations including high ocular pressure, impaired eyeball movement, diplopia and proptosis. T2RT and AEOMs can reflex the inflammation state of ocular muscles better. CAS combined with 3D T2-mapping MR imaging could improve the sensitivity of detection of active GO so as the prediction and evaluation of the response to methylprednisolone treatment.

The impact of the global budget system on dynamics of dental manpower and utilization of dental services.

PubMed

Huang, Laura Yueh-Guey; Huang, Boyen

2016-01-01

This study aimed to investigate dentists' supply and practice patterns following the implementation of the global budget system in Taiwan. Data of reimbursement claims, municipal socioeconomic status and dental manpower were collected from the National Health Insurance administration, the Ministry of Internal Affair, and the Ministry of Health and Welfare, respectively. A multivariate linear regression method was used for data analysis. A municipality that reported a higher percentage of tertiary educated population (t = 3.718, P < 0.001), a higher per capita income (t = 6.172, P < 0.001), a higher population density (t = 6.172, P < 0.001), or a lower percentage of elderly population (t = -2.506, P = 0.014) was more likely to have a higher number of dentists per 100,000 population. A municipality that reported a higher Herfindahl-Hirschman Index (HHI) value (t = 2.880, P = 0.005) was more likely to show a higher move-out rate among dentists. The rate was lower after the implementation of the global budget system (t = -2.436, P = 0.018). A municipality that had a higher percentage of elderly population (t = 3.628, P < 0.001), a lower percentage of young population (t = -2.138, P = 0.035), or a higher rate of population growth (t = 4.412, P < 0.001) was more likely to display a higher move-in rate among dentists. The percentage of amalgam restorations in total claims reduced from 19.82% to 17.94%, while the percentage of tooth-colored material restorations increased from 25.46% to 28.79%. This study has demonstrated a stabilizing effect of the global budget system on dynamics of dental manpower in Taiwan. A relationship between HHI and dentists' move-out rate has been found. The relationship between municipal socioeconomic status and the density of dentists has also been confirmed. In addition, reduced utilization of amalgam restorations was accompanied by increased utilization of tooth-colored material restorations. Further investigations are indicated.

Light-dark differences in the effects of ambient temperature on gaseous metabolism in newborn rats.

PubMed

Seifert, E L; Mortola, J P

2000-05-01

Body temperature (T(b)) of rat pups (7-9 days old) raised under a 12:12-h light-dark (L-D) regimen (L: 0700-1900, D: 1900-0700) was consistently higher in D than in L by approximately 1.1 degrees C. We tested the hypothesis that the L-D differences in T(b) were accompanied by differences in the set point of thermoregulation. Measurements were performed on rat pups at 7-9 days after birth. O(2) consumption (VO(2)) and CO(2) production (VCO(2)) were measured with an open-flow method during air breathing, as ambient temperature (T(a)) was decreased from 40 to 15 degrees C at the constant rate of 0.5 degrees C/min. At T(a) >/=33 degrees C, VO(2) was not significantly different between L and D, whereas VCO(2) was higher in L, suggesting a greater ventilation. Over the 33 to 15 degrees C range the VO(2) values in D exceeded those in L by approximately 30%. Specifically, the difference was contributed by differences in thermogenesis at T(a) = 30 to 20 degrees C. As T(a) was decreased, the critical temperature at which VO(2) began to rise was lower in L. We conclude that the higher T(b) of rat pups in D is accompanied by a higher set point for thermoregulation and a greater thermogenesis. These results are consistent with the idea that, in newborns, endogenous changes in the set point of thermoregulation contribute to the circadian oscillations of T(b).

The correlation between biological activity and diffusion-weighted MR imaging and ADC value in cases with prostate cancer.

PubMed

Sokmen, Bedriye Koyuncu; Sokmen, Dogukan; Ucar, Nese; Ozkurt, Huseyin; Simsek, Abdulmuttalip

2017-12-31

Firstly, we aimed to investigate the correlation among dynamic contrasted magnetic resonance (MR) images, diffusion-weighted MR images, and apparent diffusion coefficent (ADC) values in patients with prostate cancer. Secondly, we aimed to investigate the roles of these variables on clinical risk classification and the biological behavior of the prostate cancer. A total of sixty with prostatic adenocarcinoma patients diagnosed between January 2011 and May 2013 were retrospectively included in the study. Risk classification of patients were evaluated as low-risk (Group 1) (n = 20) (Stage T1c-T2a, PSA < 10 ng/ml, Gleason Score < 7), moderate-risk (Group 2) (n = 18) (Stage T1b-T2c, PSA = 10-20 ng/ml, Gleason Score = 7) and high-risk (Group 3) (n = 22) (Stage > T3a, PSA > 20 ng/ml, Gleason Score > 7). Diffusion-weighted MR images, dynamic contrasted MR images, and ADC values of the prostates were correlated. ADC values of the cases in Group 3 were lower than those of the other groups (p < 0.001). ADC values of the areas without malignancy did not differ significantly between groups (p > 0.05). Biological activity of the tumor tissue was determined by GS, while a negative correlation was observed between GSs and ADC values of the patients, (p < 0.001). In tumors with higher Gleason scores, lower ADC values were obtained. These measured values can play a role in the noninvasive determination of the cellularity of the tumoral mass.

Sequential Change in T2* Values of Cartilage, Meniscus, and Subchondral Bone Marrow in a Rat Model of Knee Osteoarthritis

PubMed Central

Tsai, Ping-Huei; Lee, Herng-Sheng; Siow, Tiing Yee; Chang, Yue-Cune; Chou, Ming-Chung; Lin, Ming-Huang; Lin, Chien-Yuan; Chung, Hsiao-Wen; Huang, Guo-Shu

2013-01-01

Background There is an emerging interest in using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) T2* measurement for the evaluation of degenerative cartilage in osteoarthritis (OA). However, relatively few studies have addressed OA-related changes in adjacent knee structures. This study used MRI T2* measurement to investigate sequential changes in knee cartilage, meniscus, and subchondral bone marrow in a rat OA model induced by anterior cruciate ligament transection (ACLX). Materials and Methods Eighteen male Sprague Dawley rats were randomly separated into three groups (n = 6 each group). Group 1 was the normal control group. Groups 2 and 3 received ACLX and sham-ACLX, respectively, of the right knee. T2* values were measured in the knee cartilage, the meniscus, and femoral subchondral bone marrow of all rats at 0, 4, 13, and 18 weeks after surgery. Results Cartilage T2* values were significantly higher at 4, 13, and 18 weeks postoperatively in rats of the ACLX group than in rats of the control and sham groups (p<0.001). In the ACLX group (compared to the sham and control groups), T2* values increased significantly first in the posterior horn of the medial meniscus at 4 weeks (p = 0.001), then in the anterior horn of the medial meniscus at 13 weeks (p<0.001), and began to increase significantly in the femoral subchondral bone marrow at 13 weeks (p = 0.043). Conclusion Quantitative MR T2* measurements of OA-related tissues are feasible. Sequential change in T2* over time in cartilage, meniscus, and subchondral bone marrow were documented. This information could be potentially useful for in vivo monitoring of disease progression. PMID:24204653

HbA1c as a Screening tool for Ketosis in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

PubMed Central

Zhu, Bing; Bu, Le; Zhang, Manna; Gusdon, Aaron M.; Zheng, Liang; Rampersad, Sharvan; Li, Jue; Qu, Shen

2016-01-01

Ketosis in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is overlooked due to atypical symptoms. The objective of this study is to evaluate the value of hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) as a screening tool for ketosis in T2DM patients. This retrospective study consisted of 253 T2DM patients with ketosis at Shanghai 10th People’s Hospital during a period from January 1, 2011 to June 30, 2015. A control group consisted of 221 T2DM patients without ketosis randomly selected from inpatients during the same period. Receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) analysis was used to examine the sensitivity and specificity of HbA1c as an indicator for ketosis. Higher HbA1c levels were correlated with ketosis. In patients with newly diagnosed T2DM, the area under the curve (AUC) was 0.832, with 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.754–0.911. The optimal threshold was 10.1% (87 mmol/mol). In patients with previously diagnosed T2DM, the AUC was 0.811 (95% CI: 0.767–0.856), with an optimal threshold of 8.6% (70 mmol/mol). HbA1c is a potential screening tool for ketosis in patients with T2DM. Ketosis is much more likely with HbA1c values at ≥10.1% in patients with newly diagnosed T2DM and HbA1c values at ≥8.6% in patients with previously diagnosed T2DM. PMID:28009017

Postpartum Reclassification of Glycemic Status in Women with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus and Associated Risk Factors.

PubMed

Alves, Jacy Maria; Stollmeier, Aline; Leite, Isabelle Gasparetto; Pilger, Camilla Gallo; Detsch, Josiane Cristine Melchioretto; Radominski, Rosana Bento; Réa, Rosângela Roginski

2016-08-01

Objective The aims of the study were to evaluate, after pregnancy, the glycemic status of women with history of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and to identify clinical variables associated with the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), impaired fasting glucose (IFG), and impaired glucose tolerance (IGT). Methods Retrospective cohort of 279 women with GDM who were reevaluated with an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) after pregnancy. Characteristics of the index pregnancy were analyzed as risk factors for the future development of prediabetes (IFG or IGT), and T2DM. T2DM was diagnosed in 34 (12.2%) patients, IFG in 58 (20.8%), and IGT in 35 (12.5%). Women with postpartum T2DM showed more frequently a family history of T2DM, higher pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI), lower gestational age, higher fasting and 2-hour plasma glucose levels on the OGTT at the diagnosis of GDM, higher levels of hemoglobin A1c, and a more frequent insulin requirement during pregnancy. Paternal history of T2DM (odds ratio [OR] = 5.67; 95% confidence interval [95%CI] = 1.64-19.59; p = 0.006), first trimester fasting glucose value (OR = 1.07; 95%CI = 1.03-1.11; p = 0.001), and insulin treatment during pregnancy (OR = 15.92; 95%CI = 5.54-45.71; p < 0.001) were significant independent risk factors for the development of T2DM. Conclusion A high rate of abnormal glucose tolerance was found in women with previous GDM. Family history of T2DM, higher pre-pregnancy BMI, early onset of GDM, higher glucose levels, and insulin requirement during pregnancy were important risk factors for the early identification of women at high risk of developing T2DM. These findings may be useful for developing preventive strategies. Thieme Publicações Ltda Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Measurement of higher harmonic flow coefficients of identified hadrons in Pb-Pb collisions at = 2.76 TeV

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mohammadi, Naghmeh; ALICE Collaboration

2017-01-01

The latest ALICE results on the centrality and transverse momentum dependence of v 2, v 3, v 4 and v 5 for π± , K ± and p() in Pb-Pb collisions at = 2.76 TeV are presented. The flow coefficients exhibit a clear mass ordering for p T < 2.5 GeV/c for all harmonics. For transverse momentum values larger than about 3 GeV/c, mesons exhibit distinctively lower flow values compared to baryons, suggesting that coalescence might be the relevant particle production mechanism in this region. The experimental data for p T < 2.5 GeV/c are described fairly well by the hydrodynamical model iEBE-VISHNU, which models the hydrodynamical expansion of the fireball using a value of η/s = 0.08, coupled to a hadronic cascade model (UrQMD). Finally, A Multi-Phase Transition Model (AMPT) highlights the significant contribution of the hadronic rescattering phase and of coalescence as the dominant particle production mechanism to the mass ordering at low p T and the baryon-meson grouping at intermediate p T, respectively.

Efficacy of soy protein isolate as a fat replacer on physico-chemical and sensory characteristics of low-fat paneer.

PubMed

Kumar, S Siva; Balasubramanian, S; Biswas, A K; Chatli, M K; Devatkal, S K; Sahoo, J

2011-08-01

The nutritional and textural properties of low fat paneer using soy protein isolate (SPI) as fat replacer was investigated. The physico-chemical and sensory characteristics of 4 types of paneer made of low-fat milk (3% milk fat (MF) and 10% solids-not-fat (SNF)) and SPI of 0 (T1), 0.1 (T2), 0.2 (T3) and 0.3% SPI (T4) were compared with high fat paneer (TC) made of high fat milk (6% MF and 9% SNF). CaCl2 (0.2%, w/v) was used as coagulant at 75 ± 1°C. Increased level of SPI in paneer increased yield, protein, ash, moisture content and decreased fat, moisture protein ratio, lactose and calorie contents. Titratable acidity and pH varied in narrow range. Instrumental firmness was higher (p ≤ 0.05) in T1-T4 than in TC. The gumminess, chewiness and firmness showed the same trend. Resilience and cohesiveness values showed no significant difference among the samples. Hunter colour L values showed a decreasing, and a and b values increasing trend with increasing levels of SPI. Sensory appearance and colour scores were lower (p ≤ 0.05) for T1-T4 than TC. More than 0.2% SPI imparted beany flavour to paneer.

Differences in clinical and biological characteristics and prevalence of chronic complications related to aging in patients with type 2 diabetes.

PubMed

Basanta-Alario, María Luisa; Ferri, Jordi; Civera, Miguel; Martínez-Hervás, Sergio; Ascaso, Juan Francisco; Real, José Tomás

2016-02-01

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic, highly prevalent disease that increases with age. Because of this, and due to its chronic complications, T2DM causes high human, social, and financial costs. In addition, the elderly population with T2DM has a marked clinical heterogeneity. Therefore, our main objective was to analyze the relationship of age with the clinical and biological manifestations of the disease and the prevalence of chronic complications in patients with T2DM. A cross-sectional study of a large population with T2DM (n=405) randomly selected from a Diabetes Unit and 2 health care centers (60%). The clinical, anthropometric, and biochemical variables of the subjects were collected using standard methods to assess the effect of age on the clinical and biochemical phenotype of patients with T2DM. We have noted that patients with T2DM > 70 years old have a clinical and biochemical phenotype different from younger subjects (<60 years) including longer times since diabetes onset, higher diastolic blood pressure levels, and lower body mass index (BMI) values. As regards to biological variables, these patients have lower triglyceride levels, impaired kidney function, and lower HbA1c values. Prevalence of metabolic syndrome is lower in patients with T2DM > 70 years of age. Age was inversely related to parameters associated to metabolic syndrome (BMI, waist circumference, blood pressure, and triglyceride levels). We have defined the clinical and biochemical profile of patients with T2DM > 70 years attending health care centers. In addition, the prevalence of stroke, kidney disease, and distal symmetrical polyneuropathy is higher in patients with T2DM >70 years as compared to younger patients (<60 years). Copyright © 2015 SEEN. Published by Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

MRI Evaluation of Non-Necrotic T2-Hyperintense Foci in Pediatric Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma.

PubMed

Clerk-Lamalice, O; Reddick, W E; Li, X; Li, Y; Edwards, A; Glass, J O; Patay, Z

2016-05-19

The conventional MR imaging appearance of diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma suggests intralesional histopathologic heterogeneity, and various distinct lesion components, including T2-hypointense foci, have been described. Here we report the prevalence, conventional MR imaging semiology, and advanced MR imaging features of non-necrotic T2-hyperintense foci in diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma. Twenty-five patients with diffuse intrinsic pontine gliomas were included in this study. MR imaging was performed at 3T by using conventional and advanced MR imaging sequences. Perfusion (CBV), vascular permeability (v e , K trans ), and diffusion (ADC) metrics were calculated and used to characterize non-necrotic T2-hyperintense foci in comparison with other lesion components, namely necrotic T2-hyperintense foci, T2-hypointense foci, peritumoral edema, and normal brain stem. Statistical analysis was performed by using Kruskal-Wallis and Wilcoxon rank sum tests. Sixteen non-necrotic T2-hyperintense foci were found in 12 tumors. In these foci, ADC values were significantly higher than those in either T2-hypointense foci (P = .002) or normal parenchyma (P = .0002), and relative CBV values were significantly lower than those in either T2-hypointense (P = .0002) or necrotic T2-hyperintense (P = .006) foci. Volume transfer coefficient values in T2-hyperintense foci were lower than those in T2-hypointense (P = .0005) or necrotic T2-hyperintense (P = .0348) foci. Non-necrotic T2-hyperintense foci are common, distinct lesion components within diffuse intrinsic pontine gliomas. Advanced MR imaging data suggest low cellularity and an early stage of angioneogenesis with leaky vessels resulting in expansion of the extracellular space. Because of the lack of biopsy validation, the underlying histoarchitectural and pathophysiologic changes remain unclear; therefore, these foci may correspond to a poorly understood biologic event in tumor evolution. © 2016 American Society of Neuroradiology.

Troponin-T as a biomarker in neonates with perinatal asphyxia.

PubMed

Abiramalatha, T; Kumar, M; Chandran, S; Sudhakar, Y; Thenmozhi, M; Thomas, N

2017-01-01

Troponin-T is a commonly used cardiac biomarker, which could be useful in perinatal asphyxia. We aimed to analyze troponin-T concentrations in asphyxiated neonates and to correlate the concentrations with clinical outcomes. Data were collected from electronic medical records of neonates diagnosed with perinatal asphyxia over a period of four years. There were 63 neonates with moderate to severe encephalopathy, in whom serial troponin-T concentrations had been done on days 1, 3, and 7. 53 (84%) asphyxiated infants had troponin-T concentration >100 pg/ml at 2-4 h of life.The difference in troponin-T concentrations between moderate and severe encephalopathy was not statistically significant (173 vs. 263 pg/ml, p value 0.40). The difference in the concentrations at 72 hours between cooled and non-cooled neonates was not significant (48.5 vs. 62.5 pg/ml, p value 0.22). Troponin-T concentration was significantly higher in babies with hypotensive shock and hepatic injury, but not acute kidney injury. There was no significant correlation between troponin-T and the extent of resuscitation needed.Troponin-T concentration on day 1 of life was significantly higher in babies who died than who survived (407 vs. 168 pg/ml, p value 0.03). ROC curve for troponin-T to predict mortality had an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.803; the best cut-off value (190 pg/ml) had 82% sensitivity and 80% specificity. There was no significant difference in troponin-T concentrations between cooled and non-cooled neonates. Troponin-T concentration had a good predictive accuracy for mortality before discharge.

Effect of three commercially available chewing gums on salivary flow rate and pH in caries-active and caries-free children: An in vivo study.

PubMed

Vantipalli, Usha Kiran; Avula, Sai Sankar Jogendra; Enuganti, Sridevi; Bandi, Sujatha; Kakarla, Pranitha; Kuravadi, Raja Vardhan

2017-01-01

Adequate salivary flow is an important requisite in the maintenance of oral health. Salivary flow increases in response to both gustatory (taste) and mechanical (chewing) stimuli. Hence, the aim of the present study was to know the efficacy of commercially available chewing gums (sugar free and sugared) on salivary flow rate (SFR) and pH in caries-active and caries-free children. One hundred school children aged between 10 and 12 years were divided into two groups on the basis of their caries status into caries free and caries active. Unstimulated saliva was collected before start of the study. Both groups were subjected to three commercially available chewing gums (2 sugar free, 1 sugared) on consecutive days, and saliva was collected at intervals of 2 min (T2), 10 min (T10), and 30 min (T30). The pH and flow rate of saliva samples were measured before and specified time intervals after gum chewing. In both the groups, gum chewing increased the SFR, significantly at T2, and gradually declined at T30 which was significantly higher than baseline values. The pH raised significantly at T2 and gradually declined at T30 which was significantly higher than baseline values with sugar-free gums, but with sugared gums, the pH raised slightly at T2 and dropped significantly at T30. However, no statistically significant differences in pH and flow rate were noticed in both the groups. Chewing of sugar-free gums in both caries-active and caries-free children may aid in reducing the incidence of dental caries.

IDEAL 3D spoiled gradient echo of the articular cartilage of the knee on 3.0 T MRI: a comparison with conventional 3.0 T fast spin-echo T2 fat saturation image.

PubMed

Han, Chul Hee; Park, Hee Jin; Lee, So Yeon; Chung, Eun Chul; Choi, Seon Hyeong; Yun, Ji Sup; Rho, Myung Ho

2015-12-01

Many two-dimensional (2D) morphologic cartilage imaging sequences have disadvantages such as long acquisition time, inadequate spatial resolution, suboptimal tissue contrast, and image degradation secondary to artifacts. IDEAL imaging can overcome these disadvantages. To compare sound-to-noise ratio (SNR), contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR), and quality of two different methods of imaging that include IDEAL 3D SPGR and 3.0-T FSE T2 fat saturation (FS) imaging and to evaluate the utility of IDEAL 3D SPGR for knee joint imaging. SNR and CNR of the patellar and femoral cartilages were measured and calculated. Two radiologists performed subjective scoring of all images for three measures: general image quality, FS, and cartilage evaluation. SNR and CNR values were compared by paired Student's t-tests. Mean SNRs of patellar and femoral cartilages were 90% and 66% higher, respectively, for IDEAL 3D SPGR. CNRs of patellar cartilages and joint fluids were 2.4 times higher for FSE T2 FS, and CNR between the femoral cartilage and joint fluid was 2.2 times higher for FSE T2 FS. General image quality and FS were superior using FSE T2 FS compared to those of IDEAL 3D SPGR imaging according to both readers, while cartilage evaluation was superior using IDEAL 3D SPGR. Additionally, cartilage injuries were more prominent in IDEAL 3D SPGR than in FSE T2FS according to both readers. IDEAL 3D SPGR images show excellent visualization of patellar and femoral cartilages in 3.0 T and can compensate for the weaknesses of FSE T2 FS in the evaluation of cartilage injuries. © The Foundation Acta Radiologica 2014.

Effect of pretreatment with carbon monoxide and ozone on the quality of vacuum packaged beef meats.

PubMed

Lyu, Fei; Shen, Kejing; Ding, Yuting; Ma, Xin

2016-07-01

Beef meats without pretreatment (CK) or pretreated with different volume ratios of carbon monoxide and ozone of 100%CO (T1), 2%O3+98%CO (T2), 5%O3+95%CO (T3) and 10%O3+90%CO (T4) using modified atmosphere packages for 1.5h, after that they were vacuum-packaged and stored in 0°C refrigerator for 46days. The surface color a* values and sensory scores of T1, T2, T3 and T4 were significant higher than CK (p<0.05) during storage. In the mid and later storage, the drip loss, total viable counts (TVC), metmyoglobin (met-Mb), thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), total volatile basic nitrogen (TVB-N) and pH of T1, T2, T3 and T4 were significantly lower than CK (p<0.05), and these values of T2, T3 and T4 were significantly lower than T1 in the later storage. In conclusion, O3 in the combination didn't affect the color-developing effect of CO, and could help CO maintain the meat quality. Therefore, the pretreatment of CO combined with O3 at certain concentrations can be a promising technique to maintain the quality of beef meats. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

CD28 T-cell costimulatory molecule expression in pemphigus vulgaris.

PubMed

Alecu, M; Ursaciuc, C; Surcel, M; Coman, G; Ciotaru, D; Dobre, M

2009-03-01

CD28 superfamily of immune costimulatory molecules could play an important role in autotolerance control. CD28 costimulation seems to be necessary for regulatory T cell (Treg) activation and successive suppressive activities involved in autoimmunity protection. This study investigates CD28 expression, especially inducible costimulator fraction, on T lymphocytes in pemphigus vulgaris (PV) patients. CD28 expression on T lymphocytes was assessed in 16 PV patients during acute attack. All patients and 10 healthy control subjects were tested for lymphocyte populations, T-cell subpopulations (T-CD4+, T-CD8+), Treg and CD28 expression on T-cell subpopulations. T, B and natural killer cells average values in PV patients were close to the control group values. Compared with control group, PV values showed lower Treg (2.2% compared with 4.7%), slightly decreased CD4+ CD28+ T cells (91% compared with 95%), higher CD4+ CD28- T cells (9% compared with 5%), decreased CD8+ CD28+ T cells (57% and 73%, respectively) and significantly enhanced CD8+ CD28- T cells (43% compared with 27%). These data suggest that Treg-mediated suppressor T-cell effects could be diminished in PV, together with an abnormal or ineffective subsequent helper T-cell suppression. CD28 high expression on helper T cells and low expression on suppressor T cells are arguments for a potential CD28 role in PV autoimmune response mechanism.

[Expressions of angiogenesis-related factors: CD105, EphA2 and EphrinA1 in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma and clinical implication].

PubMed

Su, J; Ji, X B; Xie, J H; Li, W

2016-12-07

Objective: To investigate the expressions of endoglin (CD105), erythropoietin-producing hepatocyte receptor A2 (EphA2) and its ligand ephrinA1 proteins in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) and the relationship between their expressions and the clinicopathological factors of LSCC. Methods: The expressions of CD105, EphA2 and EphrinA1 proteins were detected with immunohistochemical staining in LSCC in 76 cases and adjacent normal laryngeal tissues (ANLT) (S-P) in 25 cases.SPSS 17.0 software was used to analyze the data. Results: The mean microvessel density (MVD) value marked by CD105 staining in LSCC was 10.33±2.29, which was significantly higher than that in ANLT(1.20±1.04, t =18.732, P <0.05). The CD105-MVD was correlated with T stage, histological grading, clinical stage, lymph node metastasis, recurrence and prognosis in LSCC (F value was 5.34, 4.79, 5.36, t value was -2.70, 2.56, all P <0.05). The positive expression rates of EphA2 and EphrinA1 in LSCC were 78.95% (60/76), and 81.85% (62/76), which were respectively significantly higher than 40% (10/25) for EphA2 expression and 44% (11/25) for EphrinA1, expression in ANLT (χ 2 value was 13.41, 13.26, both P <0.05). EphA2 expression was correlated with histological grading, T stage, clinical stage, lymph node metastasis, recurrence and prognosis in LSCC (χ 2 value was 6.25, 14.60, 15.11, 8.52, 5.54, all P <0.05). EphrinA1 expression was correlated with T stage, clinical stage, lymph node metastasis, recurrence and prognosis in LSCC (χ 2 value was 6.44, 12.28, 16.78, 6.44, all P <0.05). The expressions of CD105, EphA2 and EphrinA1 were positively correlated with each other r value was 0.72, 0.74, 0.64, all P <0.05. Survival analysis indicated that the expressions of CD105 and EphA2, histological grading, lymph node metastasis, clinical stage and recurrence were independent factors for tumor prognosis in LSCC ( P <0.05). Conclusions: The expressions of CD105, EphA2 and EphrinA1 protein were positively correlated with each other in LSCC. They may play important roles in the tumorigenesis, malignant progression and poor prognosis of LSCC.

Home Versus Away Competition: Effect on Psychophysiological Variables in Elite Rugby Union.

PubMed

Cunniffe, Brian; Morgan, Kevin A; Baker, Julien S; Cardinale, Marco; Davies, Bruce

2015-09-01

This study evaluated the effect of game venue and starting status on precompetitive psychophysiological measures in elite rugby union. Saliva samples were taken from players (starting XV, n = 15, and nonstarters, n = 9) on a control day and 90 min before 4 games played consecutively at home and away venues against local rivals and league leaders. Precompetition psychological states were assessed using the Competitive State Anxiety Inventory-2. The squad recorded 2 wins (home) and 2 losses (away) over the study period. Calculated effect sizes (ESs) showed higher pregame cortisol- (C) and testosterone- (T) difference values before all games than on a baseline control day (ES 0.7-1.5). Similar findings were observed for cognitive and somatic anxiety. Small between-venues C differences were observed in starting XV players (ES 0.2-0.25). Conversely, lower home T- (ES 0.95) and higher away C- (ES 0.6) difference values were observed in nonstarters. Lower T-difference values were apparent in nonstarters (vs starting XV) before home games, providing evidence of a between-groups effect (ES 0.92). Findings show an anticipatory rise in psychophysiological variables before competition. Knowledge of starting status appears a moderating factor in the magnitude of player endocrine response between home and away games.

Effect of dietary supplementation of sea buckthorn and giloe leaf meal on the body weight gain, feed conversion ratio, biochemical attributes, and meat composition of turkey poults

PubMed Central

Sharma, Aditya; Shukla, Pankaj Kumar; Bhattacharyya, Amitav; Kumar, Upendra; Roy, Debashis; Yadav, Brijesh; Prakash, Atul

2018-01-01

Aim: In the recent past, few studies have been carried out about sea buckthorn (SBT) and giloe in chicken as a part of the quest for suitable alternatives to antibiotics. However, studies in turkeys are lacking. Hence, the present study was conducted to evaluate the effects of SBT and giloe leaf meal by dietary feed supplementation in turkey poults. Materials and Methods: A total of 1-day-old turkey poults (n=84) of small white variety were distributed into four dietary treatments having three replicates each with seven birds. The study was conducted in turkey poults during 0-8 weeks of age. During the experiment, the poults were fed basal ration (28% crude protein [CP], 2800 Kcal/kg ME) T1, T2-basal ration was supplemented with SBT leaf meal powder at 0.5%, T3-basal ration was supplemented with giloe leaf meal powder at 0.5%, and T4-basal ration was fed along with supplementation of both SBT at 0.5% and giloe leaf meal powder at 0.5%. Results: T2 turkey poults had a significantly higher (p<0.01) body weight gain than T3 and T4 at 7th week of age. Weekly body weight gain was significantly higher (p<0.05) in T2 than T3 during 5th-8th week and 0-8th week of the growth phase. Feed conversion ratio (FCR) was significantly better (p<0.01) in T2 than other treatment groups during 4th-8th week phase of growth (2.09 vs. 2.36, 2.29 and 2.31). Further, FCR was significantly better (p<0.01) in T2 group as compared to other treatment groups during 0-8th week of growth phase (1.95 vs. 2.21, 2.21 and 2.12). Plasma uric acid was found significantly increased (p<0.05) in T1 than T3 and T4, and alkaline phosphatase value was significantly higher (p<0.05) in T1 and T3 than T2. Zinc content of breast (pectoralis major) muscles was significantly higher (p<0.05) in T2 and T4 as compared to T1, while ether extract (EE) in thigh (ilio tibialis) muscles was significantly higher (p<0.05) in T2 as compared to the other treatment groups. Conclusion: It may be concluded that supplementation of SBT leaf meal at 0.5% may improve production performance of turkey poults. Supplementation of 0.5% SBT leaf meal may result in higher levels of zinc and EE in the breast and thigh cuts of turkey poults. PMID:29479163

Effect of dietary supplementation of sea buckthorn and giloe leaf meal on the body weight gain, feed conversion ratio, biochemical attributes, and meat composition of turkey poults.

PubMed

Sharma, Aditya; Shukla, Pankaj Kumar; Bhattacharyya, Amitav; Kumar, Upendra; Roy, Debashis; Yadav, Brijesh; Prakash, Atul

2018-01-01

In the recent past, few studies have been carried out about sea buckthorn (SBT) and giloe in chicken as a part of the quest for suitable alternatives to antibiotics. However, studies in turkeys are lacking. Hence, the present study was conducted to evaluate the effects of SBT and giloe leaf meal by dietary feed supplementation in turkey poults. A total of 1-day-old turkey poults (n=84) of small white variety were distributed into four dietary treatments having three replicates each with seven birds. The study was conducted in turkey poults during 0-8 weeks of age. During the experiment, the poults were fed basal ration (28% crude protein [CP], 2800 Kcal/kg ME) T1, T2-basal ration was supplemented with SBT leaf meal powder at 0.5%, T3-basal ration was supplemented with giloe leaf meal powder at 0.5%, and T4-basal ration was fed along with supplementation of both SBT at 0.5% and giloe leaf meal powder at 0.5%. T2 turkey poults had a significantly higher (p<0.01) body weight gain than T3 and T4 at 7 th week of age. Weekly body weight gain was significantly higher (p<0.05) in T2 than T3 during 5 th -8 th week and 0-8 th week of the growth phase. Feed conversion ratio (FCR) was significantly better (p<0.01) in T2 than other treatment groups during 4 th -8 th week phase of growth (2.09 vs. 2.36, 2.29 and 2.31). Further, FCR was significantly better (p<0.01) in T2 group as compared to other treatment groups during 0-8 th week of growth phase (1.95 vs. 2.21, 2.21 and 2.12). Plasma uric acid was found significantly increased (p<0.05) in T1 than T3 and T4, and alkaline phosphatase value was significantly higher (p<0.05) in T1 and T3 than T2. Zinc content of breast (pectoralis major) muscles was significantly higher (p<0.05) in T2 and T4 as compared to T1, while ether extract (EE) in thigh (ilio tibialis) muscles was significantly higher (p<0.05) in T2 as compared to the other treatment groups. It may be concluded that supplementation of SBT leaf meal at 0.5% may improve production performance of turkey poults. Supplementation of 0.5% SBT leaf meal may result in higher levels of zinc and EE in the breast and thigh cuts of turkey poults.

A new scale measuring translation of the humeral head as a prognostic factor for the treatment of large and massive rotator cuff tears.

PubMed

Taniguchi, Noboru; D'Lima, Darryl D; Suenaga, Naoki; Chosa, Etsuo

2018-02-01

Failure rates after rotator cuff repair remain high in patients with massive tears. Although superior translation of the humeral head has been used to assess the severity of rotator cuff tears, the relevance of anterior migration of the humeral head to clinical outcomes has not been established. The purpose of this study was to investigate the potential role of the T-scale, a measure of the anterolateral translation of the humeral head, as a prognostic factor for rotator cuff repair. One hundred twenty consecutive patients with full-thickness rotator cuff tears underwent primary rotator cuff repair. The T-scale and acromiohumeral interval (AHI) were measured preoperatively on axial computed tomography scans and radiographs, respectively. The correlations of the T-scale and AHI with previously published scores and active forward elevation (FE) were investigated. The outcome of rotator cuff repairs was compared between patients with positive and patients with negative preoperative T-scale values. The preoperative T-scale but not AHI correlated significantly with postoperative FE and clinical scores in patients with large to massive tears but not in those with small to medium tears. Postoperative FE and clinical scores were significantly higher in patients with positive T-scale values than in those with negative T-scale values. The relative risk of retear was 2.0 to 7.9 times greater in patients with negative T-scale values. Patients with large to massive tears and negative T-scale values had poorer clinical outcomes and higher retear rates. A negative T-scale value represents a useful prognostic factor for considering reverse shoulder arthroplasty in patients at greater risk of retear after rotator cuff repair. Copyright © 2017 Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery Board of Trustees. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The T/QRS ratio values in pregnancies complicated by threatened preterm labour treated with intravenous infusions of fenoterol.

PubMed

Fuchs, Tomasz; Pomorski, Michał; Grobelak, Krzysztof; Zimmer, Mariusz

2015-07-01

To evaluate values of foetal T/QRS ratios in pregnancies complicated by threatened preterm labour treated with intravenous infusions of fenoterol using non-invasive methods with transabdominal electrodes. The study group consisted of 451 Caucasian women (63 preterm pregnancies and 327 healthy controls) whose pregnancies ranged from 28 to 37 gestational weeks. Foetal electrocardiograms were recorded and T/QRS ratios were calculated by KOMPOREL software (ITAM, Zabrze, Poland). The first recording was performed 30 min after the start of fenoterol infusion and the second 2 days after finishing tocolysis. T/QRS ratio variables were calculated. One-way analysis of variance was carried out. Significantly higher mean values of the T/QRS ratio were observed in pregnancies during tocolytic treatment in comparison to controls and pregnancies after tocolysis (P=0.0158 and P=0.0071, respectively). The T/QRS ratio values fall again shortly after finishing intravenous tocolysis. The T/QRS ratio is one of the methods used for non-invasive foetal distress assessment that can be used in antepartum foetal monitoring in complicated pregnancies. Raised values of the T/QRS ratio in the foetus during tocolysis with fenoterol and next its fall to values observed in physiological pregnancies may indicate transient worsening of fetal well-being, however, additional research is required.

Graphene base heterojunction transistor: An explorative study on device potential, optimization, and base parasitics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Di Lecce, Valerio; Grassi, Roberto; Gnudi, Antonio; Gnani, Elena; Reggiani, Susanna; Baccarani, Giorgio

2015-12-01

The Graphene-Base Heterojunction Transistor (GBHT) is a novel device concept with a high potential for analog high-frequency RF operation, in which the current is due to both thermionic emission and tunneling. In this paper we study through numerical simulations the influence of previously uninvestigated aspects of Si- and Ge-based GBHTs-namely, crystallographic orientation and doping density values-on the device performance; a comparison with an aggressively scaled HBT structure is then reported. The simulations are carried out with an in-house developed code based on a 1-D quantum transport model within the effective mass approximation and the assumptions of ballistic transport with non-parabolic corrections and ideal semiconductor-graphene interface. We show that crystallographic orientation has a negligible effect on the GBHT performance. The doping density values in the GBHT emitter and collector regions can be tailored to maximize the device performance: the Si device shows better overall performance than the Ge one, yielding a peak cut-off frequency fT higher than 4 THz together with an intrinsic voltage gain above 10, or even higher fT at the cost of a lower gain. The Si-based GBHT can potentially outperform the SiGe HBT by a 2.8 higher fT . For a Si-based GBHT with a circular active region of diameter 50-100 nm, a theoretical balanced value for fT and fmax above 2 THz can be achieved, provided the base parasitics are carefully minimized.

Spatial-temporal and phylogeographic characterization of Trypanosoma spp. in cattle (Bos taurus) and buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis) reveals transmission dynamics of these parasites in Colombia.

PubMed

Jaimes-Dueñez, Jeiczon; Triana-Chávez, Omar; Mejía-Jaramillo, Ana M

2018-01-15

Animal Trypanosomiasis (AT) is one of the most important problems in the Colombian livestock industry reducing its production around 30%. Caribbean and Orinoquia regions play a significant role in the development of this industry, having about 6.9 million cattle and 113,000 buffaloes. Considering the paucity in studies to understand the epidemiological features and control of AT in Colombia, the present study reports the seasonal transmission patterns and phylogeographic traits of the causal agents of AT in cattle and buffaloes from these regions. Between 2014 and 2016, a three-point longitudinal survey was designed to evaluate the mentioned characteristics. Molecular analysis in cattle showed an AT prevalence of 39.2% (T. theileri 38.6%, T. evansi 6.7% and T. vivax 0.2%), with higher values during wet and late wet seasons, while in buffaloes the prevalence was 28.2% (T. theileri 28.2% and T. evansi 1.3%), with higher values during the dry season. Additionally, variables such as tabanid abundance, vector control, breeding system, age and anemia signs were significantly associated with AT prevalence (P<0.05). Only T. theileri infection was higher in cattle with anemia signs than those with normal packed cell volume. Finally, phylogeographic analysis revealed that Colombian T. theileri isolates were associated to specific host genotypes IA and IIB, described worldwide; T. vivax isolates were related to the genotype from West Africa; while T. evansi isolates are related to the South American genotypes and to new genotypes. This is the first longitudinal survey that evaluates through molecular methods, the infection of Trypanosoma spp. in two important livestock regions from Colombia, showing that the clinical effects and prevalence of these trypanosomes in cattle and buffaloes are modulated by seasonal variations, host factors, and parasite traits. The results suggest that these factors have to be taken into account to successfully control AT in these regions. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Prospective In Vivo Comparison of Damaged and Healthy-Appearing Articular Cartilage Specimens in Patients With Femoroacetabular Impingement: Comparison of T2 Mapping, Histologic Endpoints, and Arthroscopic Grading.

PubMed

Ho, Charles P; Surowiec, Rachel K; Frisbie, David D; Ferro, Fernando P; Wilson, Katharine J; Saroki, Adriana J; Fitzcharles, Eric K; Dornan, Grant J; Philippon, Marc J

2016-08-01

To describe T2 mapping values in arthroscopically determined International Cartilage Repair Society (ICRS) grades in damaged and healthy-appearing articular cartilage waste specimens from arthroscopic femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) treatment. Furthermore, we sought to compare ICRS grades of the specimens with biochemical, immunohistochemistry and histologic endpoints and assess correlations with T2 mapping. Twenty-four patients were prospectively enrolled, consecutively, between December 2011 and August 2012. Patients were included if they were aged 18 years or older and met criteria that followed the clinical indications for arthroscopy to treat FAI. Patients with prior hip trauma including fracture or dislocation or who have undergone prior hip surgery were excluded. All patients received a preoperative sagittal T2 mapping scan of the hip joint. Cartilage was graded intraoperatively using the ICRS grading system, and graded specimens were collected as cartilage waste for histologic, biochemical, and immunohistochemistry analysis. Forty-four cartilage specimens (22 healthy-appearing, 22 damaged) were analyzed. Median T2 values were significantly higher among damaged specimens (55.7 ± 14.9 ms) than healthy-appearing specimens (49.3 ± 12.3 ms; P = .043), which was most exaggerated among mild (grade 1 or 2) defects where the damaged specimens (58.1 ± 16.4 ms) were significantly higher than their paired healthy-appearing specimens (48.7 ± 15.4 ms; P = .026). Severely damaged specimens (grade 3 or 4) had significantly lower cumulative H&E than their paired healthy-appearing counterparts (P = .02) but was not statistically significant among damaged specimens with mild (grade 1 or 2) defects (P = .198). Among healthy-appearing specimens, median T2 and the percentage of collagen fibers oriented parallel were significantly correlated (rho = 0.425, P = .048). This study outlines the potential for T2 mapping to identify early cartilage degeneration in patients undergoing arthroscopy to treat FAI. Findings in ICRS grade 1 and 2 degeneration corresponded to an increase in T2 values. Further biochemical evaluation revealed a significant difference between healthy-appearing cartilage and late degeneration in cumulative H&E as well as significantly lower percentage of collagen fibers oriented parallel and a higher percentage of collagen fibers oriented randomly when considering all grades of cartilage damage. Level II, prospective comparative study. Copyright © 2016 Arthroscopy Association of North America. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Noise contribution to the correlation between temperature-induced localized reflectance of diabetic skin and blood glucose.

PubMed

Lowery, Michael G; Calfin, Brenda; Yeh, Shu-Jen; Doan, Tao; Shain, Eric; Hanna, Charles; Hohs, Ronald; Kantor, Stan; Lindberg, John; Khalil, Omar S

2006-01-01

We used the effect of temperature on the localized reflectance of human skin to assess the role of noise sources on the correlation between temperature-induced fractional change in optical density of human skin (DeltaOD(T)) and blood glucose concentration [BG]. Two temperature-controlled optical probes at 30 degrees C contacted the skin, one was then cooled by -10 degrees C; the other was heated by +10 degrees C. DeltaOD(T) upon cooling or heating was correlated with capillary [BG] of diabetic volunteers over a period of three days. Calibration models in the first two days were used to predict [BG] in the third day. We examined the conditions where the correlation coefficient (R2) for predicting [BG] in a third day ranked higher than R2 values resulting from fitting permutations of randomized [BG] to the same DeltaOD(T) values. It was possible to establish a four-term linear regression correlation between DeltaOD(T) upon cooling and [BG] with a correlation coefficient higher than that of an established noise threshold in diabetic patients that were mostly females with less than 20 years of diabetes duration. The ability to predict [BG] values with a correlation coefficient above biological and body-interface noise varied between the cases of cooling and heating.

Metabolic Syndrome and Serum Liver Enzymes Level at Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

PubMed Central

Music, Miralem; Dervisevic, Amela; Pepic, Esad; Lepara, Orhan; Fajkic, Almir; Ascic-Buturovic, Belma; Tuna, Enes

2015-01-01

Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate liver function in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) with and without metabolic syndrome (MS) by determining serum levels of gamma glutamyltransferase (GGT), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST). We also investigated correlation between levels of liver enzymes and some components of MS in both groups of patients. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 96 patients (age 47–83 years) with T2DM. All patients were divided according to the criteria of the National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP) in two groups: 50 patients with T2 DM and MS (T2DM-MS) and 46 patients with T2DM without MS (T2DM-Non MS). The analysis included blood pressure monitoring and laboratory tests: fasting blood glucose (FBG), total lipoprotein cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), triglyceride (TG), fibrinogen and liver enzymes: GGT, ALT and AST. T2DM-MS group included patients which had FBG ≥ 6,1 mmol/L, TG ≥ 1,7 mmol/L and blood pressure ≥ 130/85 mm Hg. Results: T2DM-MS patients had significant higher values of systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure and medium arterial pressure compared to T2DM-Non MS patients. Serum levels of TC, TG, LDL-C, VLDL-C and FBG were significantly higher in the T2DM-MS group compared to the T2DM-Non MS group. Serum fibrinogen level and GGT level were significantly higher in patients with T2DM-MS compared to the serum fibrinogen level and GGT level in T2DM-Non MS patients. Mean serum AST and ALT level were higher, but not significantly, in patients with T2DM and MS compared to the patients with T2DM without MS. Significant negative correlations were observed between TC and AST (r= -0,28, p<0,05), as well as between TC and ALT level (r= -0,29, p<0,05) in T2DM-MS group of patients. Conclusion: These results suggest that patients with T2DM and MS have markedly elevated liver enzymes. T2DM and MS probably play a role in increasing the risk of liver injury. PMID:26543313

The Diagnostic Value of Troponin T Level in the Determination of Cardiac Damage in Perinatal Asphyxia Newborns.

PubMed

Yildirim, Ali; Ozgen, Fatih; Ucar, Birsen; Alatas, Ozkan; Tekin, Neslihan; Kilic, Zubeyir

2016-01-01

Perinatal asphyxia is a clinical condition which results from oxygen deprivation of the fetus or newborn and the breakdown of perfusion in various organs. The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare troponin T levels over time as a marker of cardiac injury in cases of perinatal asphyxia and healthy newborns. The study included a total of 30 newborns diagnosed with perinatal asphyxia with a gestational age of 32-41 weeks, based on the last menstruation date, and 30 healthy newborns with a gestational age of 34-40 weeks, as the control group. Levels of troponin T and creatinin kinase MB were recorded for all participants. No difference was determined between the groups in terms of gestational age, manner of birth, electrocardiographic findings, and PaO2 and PaCO2 values. The umbilical artery pH levels and bicarbonate levels in the study group were found to be statistically lower than those in the control group (p < 0.001). The troponin T and creatinin kinase MB levels in the patients in the study group were higher than those within the control group, at all times. The periods when specificity and sensitivity were highest together for troponin T were the 12th and 24th h. Specificity for troponin T reached the highest value at the 24th h and sensitivity reached the highest value in the cord blood. A positive correlation was found between the troponin T and creatinin kinase MB values at the 6th and 12th h. However, no correlation could be found in the blood between the serum troponin T and creatinin kinase MB levels at the 3rd and 24th h. The troponin T level is a useful test for showing cardiac damage in hypoxic patients in the neonatal period. The sensitivity and specificity of cardiac specific troponin T levels in detecting cardiac damage are much higher according to telecardiography and electrocardiography, while the implementation of the method is simple.

Effect of treatment with probiotics as water additives on tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) growth performance and immune response.

PubMed

Zhou, Xuxia; Tian, Ziqiang; Wang, Yanbo; Li, Weifen

2010-09-01

A feeding trial was conducted for 40 days to delineate the effect of treatment with probiotics as water additives on tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) growth performance and immune response. About 360 juveniles were randomly distributed into four treatment groups, each with three replicates. Different probiotics (T-1, Bacillus subtilis B10; T-2, Bacillus coagulans B16; T-3, Rhodopseudomonas palustris G06) were added to the water of tanks at final concentration of 1 x 10(7) cfu ml(-1) every 2 days, with no probiotic added to control tanks. At the end of the feeding trial, fish treated with B. coagulans B16 (T-2) and R. palustris G06 (T-3) had significantly (P < 0.05) higher final weight, daily weight gain, and specific growth rate compared with those treated with B. subtilis B10 (T-1) and those without probiotics (control). The highest (P < 0.05) content of total serum protein was found in T-2 compared with that in T-1, T-3, and the control. However, albumin concentration and albumin/globulin ratio were not affected by the probiotics treatments. Compared with the control, probiotic supplementation remarkably improved activities of superoxide dismutase and catalase (P < 0.05). T-2 fish exhibited higher average myeloperoxidase activity than the control, T-1, and T-3 groups. Regarding serum lysozyme content in tilapia, assays showed no difference (P > 0.05) among the treatment groups. Furthermore, probiotics treatments remarkably increased respiratory burst activity compared with control, with T-2 showing higher values than T-1 and T-3. This indicated that treatment with probiotics, B. coagulans B16 and R. palustris G06, as water additives could be used to enhance immune and health status, thereby improving growth performance of O. niloticus.

All-Cause and Cardiovascular Mortality following Treatment with Metformin or Glyburide in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus.

PubMed

Raee, Mohammad Reza; Nargesi, Arash Aghajani; Heidari, Behnam; Mansournia, Mohammad Ali; Larry, Mehrdad; Rabizadeh, Soghra; Zarifkar, Mitra; Esteghamati, Alireza; Nakhjavani, Manouchehr

2017-03-01

Both metformin and sulfonylurea (SU) drugs are among the most widely-used anti-hyperglycemic medications in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Previous studies have shown that treatment with SUs might be associated with decreased survival compared with metformin. This study aimed to evaluate all-cause and cardiovascular mortality rates between glyburide and metformin in patients diagnosed with T2DM. This was a cohort study on 717 patients with T2DM (271 undergoing monotherapy with glyburide and 446 with metformin). Data were gathered from 2001 to 2014. All-cause and cardiovascular mortality were end-points. During the follow-up, 24 deaths were identified, of which 13 were cardiovascular in nature. The group with glyburide monotherapy had greater all-cause mortality (17 (6.3%) in glyburide vs. 7 (1.6%) in metformin, P = 0.001) and cardiovascular mortality (11 (4.1%) in glyburide vs. 2 (0.4%) in metformin; P = 0.001). Metformin was more protective than glyburide for both all-cause (HR: 0.27 [0.10 - 0.73] P-value = 0.01) and cardiovascular mortality (HR: 0.12 [0.20 - 0.66], P-value = 0.01) after multiple adjustments for cardiovascular risk factors. Among adverse cardiovascular events, non-fatal MI was higher in glyburide compared to metformin monotherapy group (3.2% vs. 0.8%; P-value = 0.03), but not coronary artery bypass grafting (P-value = 0.85), stenting (P-value = 0.69), need for angiography (P-value = 0.24), CCU admission (P-value = 0.34) or cerebrovascular accident (P-value = 0.10). Treatment with glyburide is associated with increased all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in patients with T2DM.

Inappropriate eating behavior: a longitudinal study with female adolescents

PubMed Central

Fortes, Leonardo de Sousa; Almeida, Sebastião de Sousa; Cipriani, Flávia Marcele; Ferreira, Maria Elisa C.

2014-01-01

Objective: To evaluate the inappropriate eating behaviors (IEB) of female adolescents over a one-year period. Methods: 290 adolescents aged between 11 and 14 years old participated in the three research stages (T1: first four months, T2: second four months and T3: third four months). The Eating Attitudes Test (EAT-26) was applied to assess the IEB. Weight and height were measured to calculate body mass index (BMI) in the three study periods. Analysis of variance for repeated measures was used to analyze the data, adjusted for the scores of the Body Shape Questionnaire and the Brazil Economic Classification Criteria. Results: Girls at T1 showed a higher frequency of IEB compared to T2 (p=0.001) and T3 (p=0.001). The findings also indicated higher values for BMI in T3 in relation to T1 (p=0.04). The other comparisons did not show statistically significant differences. Conclusions: IEB scores of female adolescents declined over one year. PMID:24676195

Behavior of B-type natriuretic peptide during mechanical ventilation and spontaneous breathing after extubation.

PubMed

Principi, T; Falzetti, G; Elisei, D; Donati, A; Pelaia, P

2009-04-01

The behavior of B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) is assessed during mechanical ventilation (MV) and spontaneous breathing after extubation in critical patients. Thirty patients admitted in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) were enrolled. BNP, fluid balance (FB), airway pressure (AP) and dobutamine infusion needing (DP) were registered in three stages: T0, admission to ICU; T1, before extubation; T2, 24 h after extubation. Patients with congestive heart failure (CHF) had BNP values higher than other patients. The value of BNP during MV was greater than normal in all patients. The cut-off to discriminate patients with heart failure during MV was 286 pgxmL(-1)(sensitivity: 86%; specificity: 90%). The increase of BNP during MV directly correlated with FB and inversely correlated with AP and DP. The plasmatic level of BNP remained higher than normal values 24 h after extubation. The underlying disease of an ICU patient seems to play a relevant role for BNP production and is probably linked to different aspects of therapeutic approach required by the patient. Our data suggest a cut-off value of BNP higher than the usual is necessary to discriminate mechanically-ventilated patients without CHF. This study should be repeated with an enlarged population.

Quantitative evaluation of benign and malignant vertebral fractures with diffusion-weighted MRI: what is the optimum combination of b values for ADC-based lesion differentiation with the single-shot turbo spin-echo sequence?

PubMed

Geith, Tobias; Schmidt, Gerwin; Biffar, Andreas; Dietrich, Olaf; Duerr, Hans Roland; Reiser, Maximilian; Baur-Melnyk, Andrea

2014-09-01

The purpose of our study was to determine the optimum combination of b values for calculating the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) using a diffusion-weighted (DW) single-shot turbo spin-echo (TSE) sequence in the differentiation between acute benign and malignant vertebral body fractures. Twenty-six patients with osteoporotic (mean age, 69 years; range, 31.5-86.2 years) and 20 patients with malignant vertebral fractures (mean age, 63.4 years; range, 24.7-86.4 years) were studied. T1-weighted, STIR, and T2-weighted sequences were acquired at 1.5 T. A DW single-shot TSE sequence at different b values (100, 250, 400, and 600 s/mm(2)) was applied. On the DW images for each evaluated fracture, an ROI was manually adapted to the area of hyperintense signal intensity on STIR-hypointense signal on T1-weighted images. For each ROI, nine different combinations of two, three, and four b values were used to calculate the ADC using a least-squares algorithm. The Student t test and Mann-Whitney U test were used to determine significant differences between benign and malignant fractures. An ROC analysis and the Youden index were used to determine cutoff values for assessment of the highest sensitivity and specificity for the different ADC values. The positive (PPV) and negative predictive values (NPV) were also determined. All calculated ADCs (except the combination of b = 400 s/mm(2) and b = 600 s/mm(2)) showed statistically significant differences between benign and malignant vertebral body fractures, with benign fractures having higher ADCs than malignant ones. The use of higher b values resulted in lower ADCs than those calculated with low b values. The highest AUC (0.85) showed the ADCs calculated with b = 100 and 400 s/mm(2), and the second highest AUC (0.829) showed the ADCs calculated with b = 100, 250, and 400 s/mm(2). The Youden index with equal weight given to sensitivity and specificity suggests use of an ADC calculated with b = 100, 250, and 400 s/mm(2) (cutoff ADC, < 1.7 × 10(-3) mm(2)/s) to best diagnose malignancy (sensitivity, 85%; specificity, 84.6%; PPV, 81.0%; NPV, 88.0%). ADCs calculated with a combination of low to intermediate b values (b = 100, 250, and 400 s/mm(2)) provide the best diagnostic performance of a DW single-shot TSE sequence to differentiate acute benign and malignant vertebral body fractures.

Use of sugarcane filter cake and nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium fertilization in the process of bioremediation of soil contaminated with diesel.

PubMed

Tellechea, Fernando Reynel Fundora; Martins, Marco Antônio; da Silva, Alexsandro Araujo; da Gama-Rodrigues, Emanuela Forestieri; Martins, Meire Lelis Leal

2016-09-01

This study evaluated the use of sugarcane filter cake and nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium (NPK) fertilization in the bioremediation of a soil contaminated with diesel fuel using a completely randomized design. Five treatments (uncontaminated soil, T1; soil contaminated with diesel, T2; soil contaminated with diesel and treated with 15 % (wt) filter cake, T3; soil contaminated with diesel and treated with NPK fertilizer, T4; and soil contaminated with diesel and treated with 15 % (wt) filter cake and NPK fertilizer, T5) and four evaluation periods (1, 60, 120, and 180 days after the beginning of the experiment) were used according to a 4 × 5 factorial design to analyze CO2 release. The variables total organic carbon (TOC) and total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPH) remaining in the soil were analyzed using a 5 × 2 factorial design, with the same treatments described above and two evaluation periods (1 and 180 days after the beginning of the experiment). In T3 and T5, CO2 release was significantly higher, compared with the other treatments. Significant TPH removal was observed on day 180, when percent removal values were 61.9, 70.1, 68.2, and 75.9 in treatments T2, T3, T4, and T5, respectively, compared with the initial value (T1).

SELF BLOOD GLUCOSE MONITORING UNDERESTIMATES HYPERGLYCEMIA AND HYPOGLYCEMIA AS COMPARED TO CONTINUOUS GLUCOSE MONITORING IN TYPE 1 AND TYPE 2 DIABETES.

PubMed

Mangrola, Devna; Cox, Christine; Furman, Arianne S; Krishnan, Sridevi; Karakas, Sidika E

2018-01-01

When glucose records from self blood glucose monitoring (SBGM) do not reflect estimated average glucose from glycosylated hemoglobin (HgBA1) or when patients' clinical symptoms are not explained by their SBGM records, clinical management of diabetes becomes a challenge. Our objective was to determine the magnitude of differences in glucose values reported by SBGM versus those documented by continuous glucose monitoring (CGM). The CGM was conducted by a clinical diabetes educator (CDE)/registered nurse by the clinic protocol, using the Medtronic iPRO2 ™ system. Patients continued SBGM and managed their diabetes without any change. Data from 4 full days were obtained, and relevant clinical information was recorded. De-identified data sets were provided to the investigators. Data from 61 patients, 27 with type 1 diabetes (T1DM) and 34 with T2DM were analyzed. The lowest, highest, and average glucose recorded by SBGM were compared to the corresponding values from CGM. The lowest glucose values reported by SBGM were approximately 25 mg/dL higher in both T1DM ( P = .0232) and T2DM ( P = .0003). The highest glucose values by SBGM were approximately 30 mg/dL lower in T1DM ( P = .0005) and 55 mg/dL lower in T2DM ( P<.0001). HgBA1c correlated with the highest and average glucose by SBGM and CGM. The lowest glucose values were seen most frequently during sleep and before breakfast; the highest were seen during the evening and postprandially. SBGM accurately estimates the average glucose but underestimates glucose excursions. CGM uncovers glucose patterns that common SBGM patterns cannot. CDE = certified diabetes educator; CGM = continuous glucose monitoring; HgBA1c = glycosylated hemoglobin; MAD = mean absolute difference; SBGM = self blood glucose monitoring; T1DM = type 1 diabetes; T2DM = type 2 diabetes.

T2* Mapping of the Hip in Asymptomatic Volunteers with Normal Cartilage Morphology: An Analysis of Regional and Age-Dependent Distribution.

PubMed

Hesper, Tobias; Schleich, Christoph; Buchwald, Alexander; Hosalkar, Harish S; Antoch, Gerald; Krauspe, Rüdiger; Zilkens, Christoph; Bittersohl, Bernd

2018-01-01

Objective To assess age-dependent and regional differences in T2* relaxation measurements in hip joint cartilage of asymptomatic volunteers at 3 T. Design Three age cohorts (cohort 1: age 20-30 years, 15 individuals; cohort 2: age 30-40 years, 17 individuals; cohort 3: age 40-50 years, 15 individuals) were enrolled. T2* values were obtained in the central and peripheral cartilage of the acetabulum and the femoral head in 7 regions (anterior to superior and posterior). Results T2* did not differ among age cohorts in acetabular cartilage (cohort 1: 24.65 ± 6.56 ms, cohort 2: 24.70 ± 4.83 ms, cohort 3: 25.81 ± 5.10 ms, P = 0.10) and femoral head cartilage (cohort 1: 27.08 ± 8.24 ms, cohort 2: 25.90 ± 7.82 ms, cohort 3: 26.50 ± 5.61 ms, P = 0.34). Analysis of the regional T2* distribution pattern indicates increased T2* values in the anterior, anterior-superior, superior-anterior, and the posterior-superior aspects of acetabular and femoral head cartilage. For acetabular cartilage, higher values were observed in the central region (25.90 ± 4.80 ms vs. 24.21 ± 4.05 ms, P < 0.0001) whereas femoral head cartilage did not reveal such differences (26.62 ± 5.74 ms vs. 26.37 ± 5.89 ms, P = 0.44). Conclusions The T2* analysis of presumably healthy hip joint cartilage does not seem to be stratified according to age in this population. Regional T2* variation throughout hip joint cartilage is apparent in this modality.

Modelling CO emission - II. The physical characteristics that determine the X factor in Galactic molecular clouds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shetty, Rahul; Glover, Simon C.; Dullemond, Cornelis P.; Ostriker, Eve C.; Harris, Andrew I.; Klessen, Ralf S.

2011-08-01

We investigate how the X factor, the ratio of the molecular hydrogen column density (?) to velocity-integrated CO intensity (W), is determined by the physical properties of gas in model molecular clouds (MCs). The synthetic MCs are results of magnetohydrodynamic simulations, including a treatment of chemistry. We perform radiative transfer calculations to determine the emergent CO intensity, using the large velocity gradient approximation for estimating the CO population levels. In order to understand why observations generally find cloud-averaged values of X = XGal˜ 2 × 1020 cm-2 K-1 km-1 s, we focus on a model representing a typical Milky Way MC. Using globally integrated ? and W reproduces the limited range in X found in observations and a mean value X = XGal= 2.2 × 1020 cm-2 K-1 km-1 s. However, we show that when considering limited velocity intervals, X can take on a much larger range of values due to CO line saturation. Thus, the X factor strongly depends on both the range in gas velocities and the volume densities. The temperature variations within individual MCs do not strongly affect X, as dense gas contributes most to setting the X factor. For fixed velocity and density structure, gas with higher temperatures T has higher W, yielding X ∝ T-1/2 for T ˜ 20-100 K. We demonstrate that the linewidth-size scaling relationship does not influence the X factor - only the range in velocities is important. Clouds with larger linewidths σ, regardless of the linewidth-size relationship, have a higher W, corresponding to a lower value of X, scaling roughly as X ∝σ-1/2. The 'mist' model, often invoked to explain a constant XGal consisting of optically thick cloudlets with well-separated velocities, does not accurately reflect the conditions in a turbulent MC. We propose that the observed cloud-averaged values of X ˜ XGal are simply a result of the limited range in ?, temperatures and velocities found in Galactic MCs - a nearly constant value of X therefore does not require any linewidth-size relationship, or that MCs are virialized objects. Since gas properties likely differ (albeit even slightly) from cloud to cloud, masses derived through a standard value of the X factor should only be considered as a rough first estimate. For temperatures T ˜ 10-20 K, velocity dispersions σ˜ 1-6 km s-1and ? cm-2, we find cloud-averaged values X ˜ 2-4 × 1020 cm-2 K-1 km-1 s for solar-metallicity models.

Does fat suppression via chemically selective saturation affect R2*-MRI for transfusional iron overload assessment? A clinical evaluation at 1.5T and 3T.

PubMed

Krafft, Axel J; Loeffler, Ralf B; Song, Ruitian; Bian, Xiao; McCarville, M Beth; Hankins, Jane S; Hillenbrand, Claudia M

2016-08-01

Fat suppression (FS) via chemically selective saturation (CHESS) eliminates fat-water oscillations in multiecho gradient echo (mGRE) R2*-MRI. However, for increasing R2* values as seen with increasing liver iron content (LIC), the water signal spectrally overlaps with the CHESS band, which may alter R2*. We investigated the effect of CHESS on R2* and developed a heuristic correction for the observed CHESS-induced R2* changes. Eighty patients [female, n = 49; male, n = 31; mean age (± standard deviation), 18.3 ± 11.7 y] with iron overload were scanned with a non-FS and a CHESS-FS mGRE sequence at 1.5T and 3T. Mean liver R2* values were evaluated using three published fitting approaches. Measured and model-corrected R2* values were compared and statistically analyzed. At 1.5T, CHESS led to a systematic R2* reduction (P < 0.001 for all fitting algorithms) especially toward higher R2*. Our model described the observed changes well and reduced the CHESS-induced R2* bias after correction (linear regression slopes: 1.032/0.927/0.981). No CHESS-induced R2* reductions were found at 3T. The CHESS-induced R2* bias at 1.5T needs to be considered when applying R2*-LIC biopsy calibrations for clinical LIC assessment, which were established without FS at 1.5T. The proposed model corrects the R2* bias and could therefore improve clinical iron overload assessment based on linear R2*-LIC calibrations. Magn Reson Med 76:591-601, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Laboratory examination of seronegative and seropositive rheumatoid arthritis.

PubMed

Sahatçiu-Meka, Vjollca; Anton, Kukeli

2010-01-01

In response to the continuing debate whether seronegative and seropositive rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are parts of the same disease spectrum or are distinct disorders, we performed a comparative analysis of some laboratory characteristics. The test group consisted of 125 seronegative RA(93 female, 32 male), with titers lower than 1/64 as defined by Rose-Waaler test. The control group consisted of 125 seropositive RA patients (93 female, 32 male), with titers of 1/64 or higher. Patients all belonged to the 2nd and 3rd functional classes (ARA), and were between 25-60 years of age. The duration of the disease was 1-27 years. Elevated average values of erythrosedimentation (ERS), C-reactive protein (PCR) and erythrocytes (Er) were found in seropositive patients, but they did not present statistically significant difference with regard to sero-status. Reduced values of hemoglobin (Hb) were found more frequently in seropositive patients (t = 2.26, p < 0.05), especially female seropositive patients (t = 4.38, p < 0.01), without correlation to disability and duration of the disease. Statistically significant difference was found in average values of fibrinogen in the seropositive subset (t = 2.10, p < 0.05), especially in female seropositive patients (t = 2.65, p < 0.01), and in average values of leukocytes (t = 1.37, p < 0.05) among male seropositive patients. Elevated immunoglobulin (IgM) values were more prominent in the seropositive subset (chi2 = 47.6, p < 0.01), especially among seropositive females (chi2 = 35.68, p < 0.01). Values of IgA and IgG did not present statistically significant difference with regard to sero-status. Levels of C3 and C4 components of the complement were reduced in seropositive tested subjects, without significant difference between sero-subsets. Increased values of gamma-globulin were confirmed with statistical significance (chi2 = 3.39, p < 0.05) in seropositive subjects, while alpha-2 globulin values were nearly equally distributed in both subsets.

Biochemical and hormonal analysis of follicular fluid and serum of female dromedary camels (Camelus dromedarius) with different sized ovarian follicles.

PubMed

El-Bahr, S M; Ghoneim, I M; Waheed, M M

2015-08-01

The current study aimed to compare some biochemical and hormonal constituents in follicular fluids and serum of female dromedary camels with different sized ovarian follicles. Therefore, follicular fluids from follicles sized 1.1-1.5cm (n=10), 1.6-2.1cm (n=10) and 2.2-2.5cm (n=10) and sera were harvested from 20 female camels. The concentrations of ascorbic acid, glucose, cholesterol and activities of acid phosphatase (ACP) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) were not changed significantly neither in follicular fluids of all follicle sizes nor in sera of female camels with different sized follicles. The concentrations of estradiol-17β (E2) in the follicular fluid of follicles sized 2.2-2.5cm were significantly lower (P<0.01) than its corresponding value in follicular fluid of other follicle sizes. The concentrations of progesterone (P4), tri-iodothyronine (T3), thyroxin (T4), cortisol and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) remained comparable in follicular fluids of all examined different sized follicles. The concentrations of E2, P4, T3, T4, cortisol and IGF-1 were similar in the serum of camels with different sized follicles. Interestingly, mean concentrations of P4 and IGF-1 in follicular fluids were higher than their corresponding values in sera of camels with different sized follicles and the mean concentrations of glucose, cholesterol, ALP and cortisol in sera were higher than their corresponding values in follicular fluids of the examined camels. With the exception of E2, there were no significant differences in biochemical and hormonal constituents between follicular fluids from different sized follicles. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Supplementation of Pork Patties with Bovine Plasma Protein Hydrolysates Augments Antioxidant Properties and Improves Quality.

PubMed

Seo, Hyun-Woo; Seo, Jin-Kyu; Yang, Han-Sul

2016-01-01

This study investigated the effects of bovine plasma protein (PP) hydrolysates on the antioxidant and quality properties of pork patties during storage. Pork patties were divided into 4 groups: without butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) and PP hydrolysates (control), 0.02% BHT (T1), 1% PP hydrolysates (T2), and 2% PP hydrolysates (T3). Pork patty supplemented with PP hydrolysates had higher pH values and lower weight loss during cooking than the control patties. Results showed that lightness and hardness both decreased upon the addition of PP hydrolysates. All samples containing BHT and PP hydrolysates had reduced TBARS and peroxide values during storage. In particular, 2% PP hydrolysates were more effective in delaying lipid oxidation than were the other treatments. It was concluded that treatment with 2% PP hydrolysates can enhance the acceptance of pork patty.

Total and free iodothyronine changes in response to transport of Equidae (Equus asinus and Equus caballus).

PubMed

Fazio, Esterina; Medica, Pietro; Cravana, Cristina; Ferlazzo, Adriana

2017-03-31

In this study the effects of short distance road transport on total and free iodothyronine changes in 12 stallions (Equus asinus and Equus caballus) were evaluated. Donkeys (n = 6) and horses (n = 6) were transported for a distance of 50 km. Blood samples were collected 1 week before transport in basal conditions, 1 week later immediately before loading, and after transport and unloading. After transport, donkeys showed significant increases in circulating T4 (P≤0.01), fT3 (P≤0.001), and fT4 (P≤0.01) levels; while horses had significant increases in circulating T3, fT3 and fT4 (P≤0.01) levels. Compared to donkeys' values, horses showed lower T4 values in basal condition, before and after transport (P≤0.001); higher fT3 values in basal condition and before (P≤0.001), and lower values (P≤0.001) after transport; higher fT4 values (P≤0.001) in basal condition. The results indicate that short road transport of donkeys and horses induces the activation of the thyroid gland, with the same release of fT3 and fT4 iodothyronines, but with different preferential release of T3 in horses and T4 in donkeys after transport.

The role of the microfissuration of the rock matrix in the abrasion resistance of ornamental granitic rocks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rodríguez-Rey, Angel; Sanchez-Delgado, Nuria; Camino, Clara; Calleja, Lope; Ruiz de Argandoña, Vicente G.; Setien, Alexia

2015-04-01

The microcrack density and the abrasion resistance of five ornamental granites (Albero, Gris Alba, Mondariz, Rosa Porriño and Traspieles) from Galicia (NW Spain) have been quantified as part of a research aimed to interpret the cuttability of the rocks in relation to the petrophysical properties of the rock matrix. Large blocks from the quarries have been cut with an industrial saw and the microcrack density and the abrasion resistance have been measured in two surfaces: H, parallel to the cut surface; T, perpendicular both to the cut surface and the cutting direction. Both planes are perpendicular to the rift plane, as it is known in quarry works. The microcrack density has been quantified following an stereological procedure applied to polished sections imaged under scanning electron microscopy. The magnification of the images allowed the study of microcracks as narrow as 2 microns in aperture. The density has been quantified in terms of length of microcrack traces per surface unit so possible anisotropies of the microcrack network could be detected. The obtained values are in the typical range for this type of rocks although the Traspieles granite shows a higher value due to its weathering degree (H: 5.11, T: 5.37 mm/mm2). The values measured in the two surfaces (H and T) are quite similar in four of the rocks; only the Albero granite shows a marked anisotropy (H: 2.76 T: 3.53 mm/mm2). The abrasion resistance of the rocks has been measured following the european standard EN 14157:2004 using the capon method. The rocks can be classified in two groups according to their abrasion resistance. Rosa Porriño, Gris Alba and Mondariz granites are the more resistant to abrasion with values around 16-17 mm. Albero and Traspieles granites are less resistant with values higher than 19 mm. The results show a good correlation between the microcrack density and the abrasion resistance. As can be expected the rocks with high microcrack density show low abrasion resistance. The coefficient of determination, R2, obtained with the values of the H surface is 0.67 and the coefficient corresponding to the T surface is higher, 0.81. Acknowledgements This research has been funded by the "Direccion General de Investigacion Cientifica y Tecnica del Ministerio de Economia y Competitividad" (Spain). (Project MINECO-13-CGL2012-33588)

Freeze-dried, mucoadhesive system for vaginal delivery of the HIV microbicide, dapivirine: optimisation by an artificial neural network.

PubMed

Woolfson, A David; Umrethia, Manish L; Kett, Victoria L; Malcolm, R Karl

2010-03-30

Dapivirine mucoadhesive gels and freeze-dried tablets were prepared using a 3x3x2 factorial design. An artificial neural network (ANN) with multi-layer perception was used to investigate the effect of hydroxypropyl-methylcellulose (HPMC): polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) ratio (X1), mucoadhesive concentration (X2) and delivery system (gel or freeze-dried mucoadhesive tablet, X3) on response variables; cumulative release of dapivirine at 24h (Q(24)), mucoadhesive force (F(max)) and zero-rate viscosity. Optimisation was performed by minimising the error between the experimental and predicted values of responses by ANN. The method was validated using check point analysis by preparing six formulations of gels and their corresponding freeze-dried tablets randomly selected from within the design space of contour plots. Experimental and predicted values of response variables were not significantly different (p>0.05, two-sided paired t-test). For gels, Q(24) values were higher than their corresponding freeze-dried tablets. F(max) values for freeze-dried tablets were significantly different (2-4 times greater, p>0.05, two-sided paired t-test) compared to equivalent gels. Freeze-dried tablets having lower values for X1 and higher values for X2 components offered the best compromise between effective dapivirine release, mucoadhesion and viscosity such that increased vaginal residence time was likely to be achieved. Copyright (c) 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Maternal Neuroendocrine Serum Levels in Exclusively Breastfeeding Mothers

PubMed Central

Meltzer-Brody, Samantha; Pearson, Brenda; Pedersen, Cort; Grewen, Karen

2015-01-01

Abstract Background: Low milk supply is a common cause of early weaning, and supply issues are associated with dysregulation of thyroid function and prolactin. However, hormone levels compatible with successful breastfeeding are not well defined, limiting interpretation of clinical lab results. In this study we sought to quantify ranges for thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), free thyroxine (T4), total T4, and prolactin in a cohort of exclusively breastfeeding women. Materials and Methods: Women planning to breastfeed were recruited in the third trimester of pregnancy. Maternal endocrine function was assessed before and after a breastfeeding session at 2 and 8 weeks postpartum. We used paired t tests to determine whether values changed from the 2- to 8-week visit. Results: Of 52 study participants, 28 were exclusively breastfeeding, defined as only breastmilk feeds in the prior 7 days, at both the 2- and 8-week study visits. Endocrine function changed with time since delivery: the TSH level was higher, whereas total T4, free T4, and prolactin levels were lower, at the 8-week visit than at the 2-week visit (by paired t test, p≤0.01). We found a wide range of prolactin values at the 8-week visit, with a 5th percentile value of 9 ng/dL before feeding and 74 ng/dL at 10 minutes after feeding. Conclusions: Neuroendocrine function changes during the first 8 weeks after birth, and a wide range of values is compatible with successful breastfeeding. Further studies are needed to define reference values in breastfeeding women. PMID:25831434

Comparison of gadolinium-EOB-DTPA-enhanced and diffusion-weighted liver MRI for detection of small hepatic metastases.

PubMed

Shimada, Kotaro; Isoda, Hiroyoshi; Hirokawa, Yuusuke; Arizono, Shigeki; Shibata, Toshiya; Togashi, Kaori

2010-11-01

To compare the accuracy of gadolinium ethoxybenzyl-diethylenetriamine pentaacetic acid (Gd-EOB-DTPA)-enhanced MRI with that of diffusion-weighted MRI (DWI) in the detection of small hepatic metastases (2 cm or smaller). Forty-five patients underwent abdominal MRI at 3 T, including T1-weighted imaging (T1WI), T2-weighted imaging (T2WI), heavily T2WI (HASTE), DWI with a b-value of 500 s/mm(2) and contrast-enhanced MRI with Gd-EOB-DTPA. Two groups were assigned and compared: group A (T1WI, T2WI, HASTE and contrast-enhanced study with Gd-EOB-DTPA), and group B (T1WI, T2WI, HASTE and DWI). Two observers independently interpreted the images obtained in a random order. For all hepatic metastases, the diagnostic performance using each imaging set was evaluated by receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. A total of 51 hepatic metastases were confirmed. The area under the ROC curve (Az) of group A was larger than that of group B, and the difference in the mean Az values between the two image sets was statistically significant, whereas, there were three metastases that lay near thin vessels or among multiple cysts and were better visualised in group B than in group A. Gd-EOB-DTPA-enhanced MRI showed higher accuracy in the detection of small metastases than DWI.

Directed polymer in a random medium of dimension 1+1 and 1+3: weights statistics in the low temperature phase

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Monthus, Cécile; Garel, Thomas

2007-03-01

We consider the low temperature T

Graphene oxide-gadolinium (III) oxide nanoparticle composite: a novel MR contrast agent with high longitudinal and transverse relaxivity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Venkatesha, N.; Poojar, Pavan; Geethanath, Sairam; Srivastava, Chandan

2014-12-01

Production of bio-compatible contrast agent materials to enhance the sensitivity of the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technique is a highly active area in MRI related research. This work illustrates the potential of a new material: graphene oxide-gadolinium (III) oxide nanoparticle (GO-Gd2O3) composite in yielding both transverse (16.3 mM-1 s-1) and longitudinal relaxivity (40 mM-1 s-1) values which are significantly higher than the proton relaxivity values achieved using the gadolinium based contrast agents currently used in MRI. Such high proton relaxivity values can facilitate low dosage of GO-Gd2O3 composite for obtaining both T1 and T2 weighted high signal-to-noise ratio images in MRI.

[Estimated glucose disposal rate in patients under 18 years of age with type 1 diabetes mellitus and overweight or obesity].

PubMed

Palomo Atance, Enrique; Ballester Herrera, M José; Giralt Muiña, Patricio; Ruiz Cano, Rafael; León Martín, Alberto; Giralt Muiña, Juan

2013-01-01

To assess the estimated glucose disposal rate (eGDR), insulin dose, and lipoprotein profile in children with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) and overweight or obesity as compared to children with T1DM and normal weight. A total of 115 patients (aged 5-16 years) with T1DM on intensive insulin therapy were recruited. The following parameters were measured: weight, height, body mass index, waist and hip circumference, insulin dose, eGDR, glycosylated hemoglobin, blood pressure, and lipoprotein profile. Results were stratified by sex and age. No significant differences were found in eGDR between children with normal weight, overweight, and obesity. However, obese children older than 11 years had lower eGDR values (9.3±1.3 vs 10.1±0.8 mg kg(-1)min(-1); p<0.01). Insulin dose was higher in overweight and obese children, especially in IU/m2/day (37.7 vs 36.1 vs. 29.4 respectively; p<0.01). Obese children had higher low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels than children with overweight and normal weight (106.5 vs 91.7 vs 91.5mg/dL respectively; p<0.01). No correlation was found between waist circumference and the different markers of insulin resistance. Values of eGDR values were lower in obese children with T1DM older than 11 years, and this may therefore be considered a marker of insulin resistance. Insulin dose was higher in diabetic patients with overweight or obesity, specially in IU/m2/day. Obese children with T1DM had a lipoprotein profile of cardiovascular risk. Copyright © 2012 SEEN. Published by Elsevier Espana. All rights reserved.

Metal discharges by Sinaloa Rivers to the coastal zone of NW Mexico.

PubMed

Frías-Espericueta, M G; Mejía-Cruz, R; Osuna López, I; Muy-Rangel, M D; Rubio-Carrasco, W; Aguilar-Juárez, M; Voltolina, D

2014-02-01

The aim of this work was to survey the discharges of dissolved and particulate Cd, Cu, Fe, Mn, Pb and Zn of the eight main rivers of Sinaloa State to the Mexican coastal environment. Zn was the most abundant dissolved metal and Fe was the most abundant particulate (8.02-16.90 and 51.8-1,140.3 μg/L, respectively). Only particulate Mn had significantly (p = 0.028) higher values in summer-fall (rainy season), whereas the significantly (p = 0.036) higher values of dissolved Zn were observed in winter and spring. The highest annual total discharges to Sinaloa coastal waters were those of the rivers San Lorenzo and Piaxtla (>2 × 10(3) m.t.) and the lowest those of rivers Baluarte and El Fuerte (349 and 119 m.t., respectively). Pb concentrations may become of concern, because they are higher than the value recommended for the welfare of aquatic communities of natural waters.

Quantitative T2 mapping evaluation for articular cartilage lesions in a rabbit model of anterior cruciate ligament transection osteoarthritis.

PubMed

Wei, Zheng-mao; Du, Xiang-ke; Huo, Tian-long; Li, Xu-bin; Quan, Guang-nan; Li, Tian-ran; Cheng, Jin; Zhang, Wei-tao

2012-03-01

Quantitative T2 mapping has been a widely used method for the evaluation of pathological cartilage properties, and the histological assessment system of osteoarthritis in the rabbit has been published recently. The aim of the study was to investigate the effectiveness of quantitative T2 mapping evaluation for articular cartilage lesions of a rabbit model of anterior cruciate ligament transection (ACLT) osteoarthritis. Twenty New Zealand White (NZW) rabbits were divided into ACLT surgical group and sham operated group equally. The anterior cruciate ligaments of the rabbits in ACLT group were transected, while the joints were closed intactly in sham operated group. Magnetic resonance (MR) examinations were performed on 3.0T MR unit at week 0, week 6, and week 12. T2 values were computed on GE ADW4.3 workstation. All rabbits were killed at week 13, and left knees were stained with Haematoxylin and Eosin. Semiquantitative histological grading was obtained according to the osteoarthritis cartilage histopathology assessment system. Computerized image analysis was performed to quantitate the immunostained collagen type II. The average MR T2 value of whole left knee cartilage in ACLT surgical group ((29.05±12.01) ms) was significantly higher than that in sham operated group ((24.52±7.97) ms) (P=0.024) at week 6. The average T2 value increased to (32.18±12.79) ms in ACLT group at week 12, but remained near the baseline level ((27.66±8.08) ms) in the sham operated group (P=0.03). The cartilage lesion level of left knee in ACLT group was significantly increased at week 6 (P=0.005) and week 12 (P<0.001). T2 values had positive correlation with histological grading scores, but inverse correlation with optical densities (OD) of type II collagen. This study demonstrated the reliability and practicability of quantitative T2 mapping for the cartilage injury of rabbit ACLT osteoarthritis model.

Influence of music and its genres on respiratory rate and pupil diameter variations in cats under general anaesthesia: contribution to promoting patient safety.

PubMed

Mira, Filipa; Costa, Alexandra; Mendes, Eva; Azevedo, Pedro; Carreira, L Miguel

2016-02-01

The aims of the study were to recognise if there is any auditory sensory stimuli processing in cats under general anaesthesia, and to evaluate changes in respiratory rate (RR) and pupillary diameter (PD) in anaesthetised patients exposed to different music genres, while relating this to the depth of anaesthesia. A sample of 12 cats submitted for elective ovariohysterectomy was exposed to 2 min excerpts of three different music genres (classical [CM], pop [PM] and heavy metal [HM]) at three points during surgery (T1 = coeliotomy; T2 = ligature placement and transection of the ovarian pedicle; T3 = ligature placement and transection of the uterine body). A multiparametric medical monitor was used to measure the RR, and a digital calliper was used for PD measurement. Music was delivered through headphones, which fully covered the patient's ears. P values   <0.05 were considered to be statistically significant.    Statistically significant differences between stimuli conditions for all surgical points were obtained for RR (T1, P = 0.03; T2, P = 0.00; T3, P = 0.00) and for PD (T1, P = 0.03; T2, P = 0.04; T3, P = 0.00). Most individuals exhibited lower values for RR and PD when exposed to CM, intermediate values to PM and higher values to HM. The results suggest that cats under general anaesthesia are likely to perform auditory sensory stimuli processing. The exposure to music induces RR and PD variations modulated by the genre of music and is associated with autonomic nervous system activity. The use of music in the surgical theatre may contribute to allowing a reduced anaesthetic dose, minimising undesirable side effects and thus promoting patient safety. © ISFM and AAFP 2015.

Quantitative evaluation of liver cirrhosis using T1 relaxation time with 3 tesla MRI before and after oxygen inhalation.

PubMed

Kim, Kyung Ah; Park, Mi-Suk; Kim, In-Seong; Kiefer, Berthold; Chung, Woo-Suk; Kim, Myeong-Jin; Kim, Ki Whang

2012-08-01

To quantify liver T1 relaxation times before and after oxygen inhalation in patients with and without liver cirrhosis using a 3 Tesla (T) MRI. Institutional Review Board approval and written informed consent were obtained. Ninety-two noncirrhotic patients and 87 patients with hepatitis B viral liver cirrhosis (72 Child-Pugh class A and 15 Child-Pugh class B or C) underwent MRI with a 3.0T system before and after the supply of 100% oxygen at a rate of 15 L/min by means of a nonrebreather ventilation mask for 3 min. T1 maps were acquired using three-dimensional spoiled gradient echo sequences with two different flip angles (2° and 14°) and a fixed TR/TE (2.54 ms/0.95 ms). Liver T1 values were obtained using a T1 processing tool (MapIT software). The mean baseline T1 values of three groups (control, Child-Pugh class A, and Child-Pugh class B/C) were compared using an analysis of variance test. Liver T1 value before and after oxygenation was compared using a paired t-test for each group. The baseline liver T1 value was significantly higher in the control group (941 ± 136 ms) than in Child-Pugh A (858 ± 143 ms) and Child-Pugh B/C (783 ± 164 ms) group (P < 0.001 and P < 0.0001). The reduction in the liver T1 value after oxygen inhalation was significant in the control group (P = 0.012) but not significant in Child-Pugh class A (P = 0.079) and Child-Pugh class B/C (P = 0.752). The baseline liver T1 relaxation time was significantly different between the patients with and without liver cirrhosis. The shortening effect of oxygen on the liver T1 value was significant in the control group but not in the cirrhotic patients. Copyright © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Effect of low incubation temperature and low ambient temperature until 21 days of age on performance and body temperature in fast-growing chickens

PubMed Central

Nyuiadzi, D; Travel, A; Méda, B; Berri, C; Guilloteau, L A; Coustham, V; Wang, Y; Tona, J K; Collin, A

2017-01-01

Abstract Thermal manipulation during embryogenesis was previously reported to decrease the occurrence of ascites and to potentially improve cold tolerance of broilers. The objective of our study was to explore the effects of the interaction of cold incubation temperatures and cool ambient temperatures until 21 d of age on performance and body temperature. Ross 308 eggs were incubated either under control conditions I0 (37.6°C) or with cyclic cold stimulations I1 (6 h/d at 36.6°C from d 10 to 18 of incubation) or with 2 cold stimulations I2 (30 min at 15°C) at d 18 and 19 of incubation. These treatments were followed by individual rearing and postnatal exposure to either standard rearing temperature T0 (from 33°C at hatching to 21°C at d 21) or continuously lower temperature T2 (from 28°C at hatching to 21°C at d 21) or exposure to cyclically lower temperature T1 (with circadian temperature oscillations). Treatments I1 and I2 did not significantly alter hatchability compared to control incubation (with 94.8, 95.1, and 92.3%, respectively), or hatching BW and overall chick quality. Hatching body temperature (Tb) was 0.5 and 0.3°C higher in I1 than in I0 and I2 groups, respectively (P = 0.007). A doubled occurrence of health problems was observed with T2 condition, regardless of incubation or sex. At d 3, BW was 2% lower with treatment I1 than with I0 and I2 and was 3% higher in T1 and T2 groups than in T0, but these effects disappeared with age. Group T2 presented a 5% higher feed intake than the control group T0 between 3 and 21 d of age (P = 0.025). Feed conversion ratio (FCR) was affected by experimental conditions (P < 0.001), with low FCR values obtained with I2 incubation in control or cyclically cold postnatal conditions. Maximal FCR values were observed in the continuously cold postnatal conditions, in males submitted to control incubation and in females submitted to I1 incubation, revealing sex-dependent effects of the treatments on performance. PMID:29053847

The impact of the global budget system on dynamics of dental manpower and utilization of dental services

PubMed Central

Huang, Laura Yueh-Guey; Huang, Boyen

2016-01-01

Background: This study aimed to investigate dentists’ supply and practice patterns following the implementation of the global budget system in Taiwan. Materials and Methods: Data of reimbursement claims, municipal socioeconomic status and dental manpower were collected from the National Health Insurance administration, the Ministry of Internal Affair, and the Ministry of Health and Welfare, respectively. A multivariate linear regression method was used for data analysis. Results: A municipality that reported a higher percentage of tertiary educated population (t = 3.718, P < 0.001), a higher per capita income (t = 6.172, P < 0.001), a higher population density (t = 6.172, P < 0.001), or a lower percentage of elderly population (t = −2.506, P = 0.014) was more likely to have a higher number of dentists per 100,000 population. A municipality that reported a higher Herfindahl-Hirschman Index (HHI) value (t = 2.880, P = 0.005) was more likely to show a higher move-out rate among dentists. The rate was lower after the implementation of the global budget system (t = −2.436, P = 0.018). A municipality that had a higher percentage of elderly population (t = 3.628, P < 0.001), a lower percentage of young population (t = −2.138, P = 0.035), or a higher rate of population growth (t = 4.412, P < 0.001) was more likely to display a higher move-in rate among dentists. The percentage of amalgam restorations in total claims reduced from 19.82% to 17.94%, while the percentage of tooth-colored material restorations increased from 25.46% to 28.79%. Conclusion: This study has demonstrated a stabilizing effect of the global budget system on dynamics of dental manpower in Taiwan. A relationship between HHI and dentists’ move-out rate has been found. The relationship between municipal socioeconomic status and the density of dentists has also been confirmed. In addition, reduced utilization of amalgam restorations was accompanied by increased utilization of tooth-colored material restorations. Further investigations are indicated. PMID:27076827

Role of MR-DWI and MR-PWI in the radiotherapy of implanted pulmonary VX-2 carcinoma in rabbits.

PubMed

Zhang, Qiang; Zhang, Mingmin; Liu, Zhaoxin; Shi, Baoqi; Qi, Fuliang; Wang, Haijiang; Lv, Yuan; Jin, Haijiao; Zhang, Weijing

2014-10-01

To detect the activity of tumor cells and tumor blood flow before and after the radiotherapy of implanted pulmonary VX-2 carcinoma in rabbit models by using magnetic resonance diffusion-weighted imaging (MR-DWI) and magnetic resonance perfusion weighted imaging (MR-PWI), and to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of the radiotherapy based on the changes in the MR-DWI and MR-PWI parameters at different treatment stages. A total of 56 rabbit models with implanted pulmonary VX-2 carcinoma were established, and then equally divided into treatment group and control group. MR-DWI and MR-PWI were separately performed using a Philips Acheiva 1.5T MRI machine (Philips, Netherland). MRI image processing was performed using special perfusion software and the WORKSPACE advanced workstation for MRI. MR-DWI was applied for the observation of tumor signals and the measurement of apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values; whereas MR-PWI was used for the measurement of wash in rate (WIR), wash out rate (WOR), and maximum enhancement rate (MER). The radiation treatment was performed using Siemens PRIMUS linear accelerator. In the treatment group, the radiotherapy was performed 21 days later on a once weekly dosage of 1,000 cGy to yield a total dosage of 5,000 cGy. THE ADC PARAMETERS IN THE REGION OF INTEREST ON DWI WERE AS FOLLOWS: on the treatment day for the implanted pulmonary VX-2 carcinoma, the t values at the center and the edge of the lesions were 1.352 and 1.461 in the treatment group and control group (P>0.05). During weeks 0-1 after treatment, the t values at the center and the edge of the lesions were 1.336 and 1.137 (P>0.05). During weeks 1-2, the t values were 1.731 and 1.736 (P<0.05). During weeks 2-3, the t values were 1.742 and 1.749 (P<0.05). During weeks 3-4, the t values were 2.050 and 2.127 (P<0.05). During weeks 4-5, the t values were 2.764 and 2.985 (P<0.05). The ADC values in the treatment group were significantly higher than in the control group. After the radiotherapy (5,000 cGy), the tumors remarkably shrank, along with low signal on DWI, decreased signal on ADC map, and remarkably increased ADC values. As shown on PWI, on the treatment day for the implanted pulmonary VX-2 carcinoma, the t values of the WIR, WOR, and MER at the center of the lesions were 1.05, 1.31, and 1.33 in the treatment group and control group (P>0.05); in addition, the t values of the WIR, WOR, and MER at the edge of the lesions were 1.35, 1.07, and 1.51 (P>0.05). During weeks 0-1 after treatment, the t values of the WIR, WOR, and MER at the center of the lesions were 1.821, 1.856, and 1.931 (P<0.05); in addition, the t values of the WIR, WOR, and MER at the edge of the lesions were 1.799, 2.016, and 2.137 (P<0.05). During weeks 1-1 after treatment, the t values of the WIR, WOR, and MER at the center of the lesions were 2.574, 2.156, and 2.059 (P<0.05) and the t values of the WIR, WOR, and MER at the edge of the lesions were 1.869, 2.058, and 2.057 (P<0.05). During weeks 2-3 after treatment, the t values of the WIR, WOR, and MER at the center of the lesions were 2.461, 2.098, and 2.739 (P<0.05) and the t values of the WIR, WOR, and MER at the edge of the lesions were 2.951, 2.625, and 2.154 (P<0.05). During weeks 3-4 after treatment, the t values of the WIR, WOR, and MER at the center of the lesions were 2.584, 2.107, and 2.869 (P<0.05) and the t values of the WIR, WOR, and MER at the edge of the lesions were 2.057, 2.637, and 2.951 (P<0.05). During weeks 4-5 after treatment, the t values of the WIR, WOR, and MER at the center of the lesions were 2.894, 2.827, and 3.285 (P<0.05) and the t values of the WIR, WOR, and MER at the edge of the lesions were 3.45, 3.246, and 3.614 (P<0.05). After the radiotherapy (500 cGy), the tumors shrank on the T1WI, WIR, WOR, and MER; meanwhile, the PWI parameter gradually decreased and reached its minimum value. MR-DWI and MR-PWI can accurately and directly reflect the inactivation of tumor cells and the tumor hemodynamics in rabbit models with implanted pulmonary VX-2 carcinoma, and thus provide theoretical evidences for judging the clinical effectiveness of radiotherapy for the squamous cell carcinoma of the lung.

Factors associated with poor Hemoglobin A1c control in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes.

PubMed

Alqudah, Salam; Jarab, Anan S; Alefishat, Eman A; Mayyas, Fadia; Khdour, Maher; Pinto, Sharrel

2018-05-10

Background The limited implementation of clinical pharmacy service programs and the lack of studies identifying barriers to achieve blood glucose control have all attributed to the increased proportion of type 2 diabetes patients who have poor glycemic control in Jordan. Objective To explore factors associated with higher HbA1c in patients with type 2 diabetes in Jordan. Method Variables including socio-demographics, disease and treatment factors were collected from171 patients with type2 diabetes at an outpatient diabetes clinic in Amman. Validated questionnaires were used to assess medication adherence, self-care activities, diabetes knowledge and health-related quality of life in addition to data collected from medical records. After the single-predictor analysis, stepwise linear regression was performed to develop a model with variables that best predicted hemoglobin A1c. Results Medication adherence was inversely associated with HbA1c values (β = -0.275; t = 2.666; P < 0.01), indicating better glycemic control. Receiving insulin therapy was also associated with less HbA1c values and better glycemic control (β = - 0.184; t = 2.080; P < 0.05). Patients who had one or more comorbid conditions (β = 0.215; t = 2.264; P < 0.05) and those with longer diabetes duration (β = 0.092; t = 1.339; P < 0.05) were found to have significantly higher HbA1c values. Conclusions Emphasizing medication adherence, particularly for patients with longer duration of diabetes and those with multiple comorbid diseases should be strongly considered in future diabetes management programs implemented to improve glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes. Copyright© Bentham Science Publishers; For any queries, please email at epub@benthamscience.org.

Characterizing the microstructural basis of "unidentified bright objects" in neurofibromatosis type 1: A combined in vivo multicomponent T2 relaxation and multi-shell diffusion MRI analysis.

PubMed

Billiet, Thibo; Mädler, Burkhard; D'Arco, Felice; Peeters, Ronald; Deprez, Sabine; Plasschaert, Ellen; Leemans, Alexander; Zhang, Hui; den Bergh, Bea Van; Vandenbulcke, Mathieu; Legius, Eric; Sunaert, Stefan; Emsell, Louise

2014-01-01

The histopathological basis of "unidentified bright objects" (UBOs) (hyperintense regions seen on T2-weighted magnetic resonance (MR) brain scans in neurofibromatosis-1 (NF1)) remains unclear. New in vivo MRI-based techniques (multi-exponential T2 relaxation (MET2) and diffusion MR imaging (dMRI)) provide measures relating to microstructural change. We combined these methods and present previously unreported data on in vivo UBO microstructure in NF1. 3-Tesla dMRI data were acquired on 17 NF1 patients, covering 30 white matter UBOs. Diffusion tensor, kurtosis and neurite orientation and dispersion density imaging parameters were calculated within UBO sites and in contralateral normal appearing white matter (cNAWM). Analysis of MET2 parameters was performed on 24 UBO-cNAWM pairs. No significant alterations in the myelin water fraction and intra- and extracellular (IE) water fraction were found. Mean T2 time of IE water was significantly higher in UBOs. UBOs furthermore showed increased axial, radial and mean diffusivity, and decreased fractional anisotropy, mean kurtosis and neurite density index compared to cNAWM. Neurite orientation dispersion and isotropic fluid fraction were unaltered. Our results suggest that demyelination and axonal degeneration are unlikely to be present in UBOs, which appear to be mainly caused by a shift towards a higher T2-value of the intra- and extracellular water pool. This may arise from altered microstructural compartmentalization, and an increase in 'extracellular-like', intracellular water, possibly due to intramyelinic edema. These findings confirm the added value of combining dMRI and MET2 to characterize the microstructural basis of T2 hyperintensities in vivo.

Effects of combined epidural and general anesthesia on intraoperative hemodynamic responses, postoperative cellular immunity, and prognosis in patients with gallbladder cancer: A randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Zhu, Jun; Zhang, Xue-Rong; Yang, Hu

2017-03-01

This study is supposed to investigate the effects of combined epidural and general anesthesia on intraoperative hemodynamic responses, postoperative cellular immunity, and prognosis in patients with gallbladder cancer (GBC). One hundred forty-four GBC patients were selected and randomly divided into the general anesthesia (GA) group and the combined epidural-general anesthesia (CEGA) group. Before anesthesia induction (t0), at intubation (t1), at the beginning of surgery (t2), 5 minutes after pneumoperitoneum (t3), at the end of surgery (t4), after recovery of spontaneous breathing (t5), after regaining consciousness (t6), and after extubation (t7), the heart rate (HR), systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), and the depth of anesthesia (bispectral index [BIS]) were detected. Blood samples were separately collected 30 minutes before anesthesia induction (T1), 2 hours after the beginning of surgery (T2), at the end of surgery (T3), 1 day after surgery (T4), 3 days after surgery (T5). The survival rates of T cell subsets (CD3+, CD4+, CD8+, CD4+/CD8+) and natural killer (NK) cells were determined by flow cytometry. Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV), visual analog scale (VAS), and sedation-agitation scale (SAS) were performed to assess postoperative adverse reactions. A 3-year follow-up was conducted. Compared with the GA group, the CEGA group had significant lower SBP values at t5 and t6, lower DBP values at t1, t3, t4, and t5, lower HR values at t1 and t5, and higher BIS values at t4, t5, t6, and t7. No PONV was observed in the CEGA group. In comparison to the GA group, the VAS was markedly increased and survival rates of CD3+, CD4+, and CD4+/CD8+ cells were increased at T2, T3, T4, and T5 in the CEGA group. The 1-year, 2-year, and 3-year survival rates were not evidently different between the CEGA group and the GA group. Our study provides evidence that the combined epidural-general anesthesia might attenuate intraoperative hemodynamic responses and improve postoperative cellular immunity, so that it might be a more available anesthesia method for GBC patients.

Predictive value of high-sensitivity troponin-I for future adverse cardiovascular outcome in stable patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Introduction High-sensitivity cardiac troponin I(hs-TnI) and T levels(hs-TnT) are sensitive biomarkers of cardiomyocyte turnover or necrosis. Prior studies of the predictive role of hs-TnT in type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM) patients have yielded conflicting results. This study aimed to determine whether hs-TnI, which is detectable in a higher proportion of normal subjects than hsTnT, is associated with a major adverse cardiovascular event(MACE) in T2DM patients. Methods and results We compared hs-TnI level in stored serum samples from 276 consecutive patients (mean age 65 ± 10 years; 57% male) with T2DM with that of 115 age-and sex-matched controls. All T2DM patients were prospectively followed up for at least 4 years for incidence of MACE including heart failure(HF), myocardial infarction(MI) and cardiovascular mortality. At baseline, 274(99%) patients with T2DM had detectable hs-TnI, and 57(21%) had elevated hs-TnI (male: 8.5 ng/L, female: 7.6 ng/L, above the 99th percentile in healthy controls). A total of 43 MACE occurred: HF(n = 18), MI(n = 11) and cardiovascular mortality(n = 14). Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that an elevated hs-TnI was associated with MACE, HF, MI and cardiovascular mortality. Although multivariate analysis revealed that an elevated hs-TnI independently predicted MACE, it had limited sensitivity(62.7%) and positive predictive value(38.5%). Contrary to this, a normal hs-TnI level had an excellent negative predictive value(92.2%) for future MACE in patients with T2DM. Conclusion The present study demonstrates that elevated hs-TnI in patients with T2DM is associated with increased MACE, HF, MI and cardiovascular mortality. Importantly, a normal hs-TnI level has an excellent negative predictive value for future adverse cardiovascular events during long-term follow-up. PMID:24661773

Rapid maxillary expansion in children with Obstructive Sleep Apnoea Syndrome (OSAS).

PubMed

Marino, A; Ranieri, R; Chiarotti, F; Villa, M P; Malagola, C

2012-03-01

to evaluate the effects of rapid maxillary expansion (RME) in a group of OSAS preschool children. Lateral cephalograms of 15 OSAS children (8 boys and 7 girls, age mean ± SD: 5.94 ± 1.64 years) were analysed at the start of treatment with RME (T0). All subjects were revaluated after a mean period of 1.57 ± 0.58 years (T1). At this time the sample was divided into 2 groups according to the change in the respiratory disturbance index (RDI): an improved group (I: 8 subjects) and a stationary/worsened group (SW: 7 subjects). Differences between I and SW children with respect to values of cephalometric variables at T0 and to variations between T0 and T1 were evaluated using Mann-Whitney U test. Differences between T0 and T1 values in the overall group of children and separately in I and SW groups were assessed using Wilcoxon test. At the start of treatment, the I group was characterised by more retrognathic jaws with lower values of SNA (p=0.055) and SNB (p=0.020) and higher age values (p=0.093) when compared to SW group. After treatment, the I group showed an increase in SNA and SNB angle significantly higher than SW group (p=0.004 and p=0.003, respectively). On the contrary, I and SW groups did not differ as for variation in the skeletal divergency and in the total facial height. OSAS preschool children with retrognathic jaws could benefit from RME treatment.

The FOXO1 Gene-Obesity Interaction Increases the Risk of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in a Chinese Han Population.

PubMed

Gong, Lilin; Li, Rong; Ren, Wei; Wang, Zengchan; Wang, Zhihong; Yang, Maosheng; Zhang, Suhua

2017-02-01

Here, we aimed to study the effect of the forkhead box O1-insulin receptor substrate 2 (FOXO1-IRS2) gene interaction and the FOXO1 and IRS2 genes-environment interaction for the risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in a Chinese Han population. We genotyped 7 polymorphism sites of FOXO1 gene and IRS2 gene in 780 unrelated Chinese Han people (474 cases of T2DM, 306 cases of healthy control). The risk of T2DM in individuals with AA genotype for rs7986407 and CC genotype for rs4581585 in FOXO1 gene was 2.092 and 2.57 times higher than that with GG genotype (odds ratio [OR] = 2.092; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.178-3.731; P = 0.011) and TT genotype (OR = 2.571; 95% CI = 1.404-4.695; P = 0.002), respectively. The risk of T2DM in individuals with GG genotype for Gly1057Asp in IRS2 gene was 1.42 times higher than that with AA genotype (OR = 1.422; 95% CI = 1.037-1.949; P = 0.029). The other 4 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) had no significant association with T2DM (P > 0.05). Multifactor dimensionality reduction (MDR) analysis showed that the interaction between SNPs rs7986407 and rs4325426 in FOXO1 gene and waist was the best model confirmed by interaction analysis, closely associating with T2DM. There was an increased risk for T2DM in the case of non-obesity with genotype combined AA/CC, AA/AC or AG/AA for rs7986407 and rs4325426, and obesity with genotype AA for rs7986407 or AA for rs4325426 (OR = 3.976; 95% CI = 1.156-13.675; P value from sign test [P(sign)] = 0.025; P value from permutation test [P(perm)] = 0.000-0.001). Together, this study indicates an association of FOXO1 and IRS2 gene polymorphisms with T2DM in Chinese Han population, supporting FOXO1-obesity interaction as a key factor for the risk of T2DM.

Prognostic Value of Cd95, Active Caspase-3, and Bcl-2 Expression in Adult Patients With De Novo Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia.

PubMed

Montiel-Cervantes, Laura Arcelia; Reyes-Maldonado, Elba; Garcia-Chavez, Jaime; Hernandez-Caballero, Alvaro; Molina-Aguilar, Rubiraida; Garcia-Ruiz Esparza, Miriam America; Vela-Ojeda, Jorge

2018-04-18

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia is an aggressive malignant disease with high mortality rates in adults. The expression levels of CD95, active caspase-3, and Bcl-2 were determined in 111 patients with de novo acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and correlated with overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS). The immunophenotyped ok leukemia and the expression of CD95, active caspase-3, and Bcl-2, were determined by flow cytometry. Apoptotic variables were correlated by Spearman test, and survival by Kaplan-Meier method. Log-rank test was used to compare survival curves. From a total of 111 patients, 56 cases were B-ALL, 16 T-ALL, 16 B-ALL/CD33 + , and 23 ambiguous lineage-AL (AmbLin-AL). The median expression of CD95 (61.5%) and active-caspase-3 (19.4%) was higher in T-ALL (p < 0.05), whereas Bcl-2 was lower in T-ALL (p < 0.038). There was a highly significant correlation in B-ALL, B-ALL/CD33 + and AmbLin-AL between CD95 and Bcl-2, CD95-Active caspase-3, and Bcl-2-Active caspase-3; while in T-ALL, there was only a correlation between CD95-Active caspase-3, and Bcl-2-Active caspase-3. OS and DFS were better for T-ALL than the other groups, especially in patients having higher values of CD95 and active caspase 3, and lower values of Bcl-2. The worse survival rates were observed in patients with B-ALL/CD33 + , and AmbLin-AL. The prognosis of ALL in adults is influenced by the expression levels of Bcl-2, active-caspase-3, and CD95. Copyright © 2018 IMSS. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Monitoring Auroral Electrojet from Polar Cap Stations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tan, A.; Lyatsky, W.; Lyatskaya, S.

2004-12-01

The auroral electrojet AL and AE geomagnetic activity indices are important for monitoring geomagnetic substorms. In the northern hemisphere these indices are derived from measurements at a set of geomagnetic observatories located in the auroral zone. In the southern hemisphere the major portion of the auroral zone is located on the ocean; this does not allow us to derive the auroral electrojet indices in the same way. We showed that monitoring the auroral electrojet is possible from magnetic field measurements at polar cap stations. For this purpose we used hourly values of geomagnetic field variations at four polar cap stations, distributed along polar cap boundary and occupying a longitudinal sector of about 14 hours, and calculated mean values of the total magnetic field disturbance T = (X2 + Y2 + Z2)1/2 where X, Y, and Z are geomagnetic field components measured at these polar cap stations. The set of the obtained values were called the T index. This index has a clear physical mining: it is the summary of geomagnetic disturbance in all three components averaged over the polar cap boundary. We found that correlation coefficients for the dependence of the T index on both AL and AE indices are as high as ~0.9 and higher. The high correlation of the T index with the AL and AE indices takes place for any UT hour when the stations were located at the night side. The T index further shows good correlation with solar wind parameters: the correlation coefficient for the dependence of the T index on the solar wind-geomagnetic activity coupling function is ~0.8 and higher, which is close to the correlation coefficient for AL index. The T index may be especially important in the cases when ground-based measurements in the auroral zone are impossible as in the southern hemisphere.

Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Simple Glucose Metabolism Parameters may Reliably Predict Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Features.

PubMed

Cazzo, Everton; Jimenez, Laísa Simakawa; Gestic, Martinho Antonio; Utrini, Murillo Pimentel; Chaim, Fábio Henrique Mendonça; Chaim, Felipe David Mendonça; Pareja, José Carlos; Chaim, Elinton Adami

2018-01-01

This study aims to investigate the correlation between features of NAFLD among individuals with morbid obesity and the surrogate IR markers homeostasis model assessment (HOMA), product of triglycerides and glucose (TyG), and triglyceride-to-high-density-lipoprotein ratio (TG/HDL-c). A cross-sectional study, which enrolled 89 individuals who consecutively underwent bariatric surgery from February through December 2015, was conducted. NAFLD was assessed through histological examination of liver biopsies and correlated with the values of HOMA, TyG, and TG/HDL-c and their respective cutoff points for insulin resistance (IR). xThe prevalence of liver steatosis was 68.5%; the affected individuals presented significantly higher fasting glucose levels (p < 0.01) and hemoglobin A1c (p < 0.01), and a significantly higher prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) (p < 0.001). Fibrosis occurred in 66.3% of the individuals and was significantly associated with higher levels of HbA1c (p < 0.05) and a higher prevalence of T2DM (p < 0.05). Steatohepatitis was present in 64% of the individuals and was significantly associated with older age (p < 0.05), higher levels of fasting glucose (p < 0.05), and a higher prevalence of T2DM (p < 0.001). After Bonferroni's adjustment, T2DM was significantly correlated with fibrosis (p < 0.01) and steatohepatitis (p < 0.001) and older age was significantly correlated with fibrosis (p < 0.05). T2DM was the only variable independently associated with fibrosis and steatohepatitis (p < 0.05 in both cases). T2DM was a significant predictor of NAFLD features among individuals undergoing bariatric surgery; higher Hb A1c was correlated with fibrosis. T2DM was independently associated with fibrosis and steatohepatitis. HOMA, TyG, and TG/HDL-c ratio did not present significant associations with NAFLD.

Bismuth heterocycles based on a diphenyl sulfone scaffold: synthesis and substituent effect on the antifungal activity against Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

PubMed

Murafuji, Toshihiro; Fujiwara, Yudai; Yoshimatsu, Daisuke; Miyakawa, Isamu; Migita, Kouto; Mikata, Yuji

2011-02-01

A series of heterocyclic organobismuth(III) compounds 2 [ClBi(5-R-C6H(3)-2-SO2C6H(4)-1'-): R=Me, Ph, MeO, Cl, H, t-Bu, CF3, F, Me2N] was synthesized in order to study the relative importance of structure and specific substitutions in relation to their lipophilicity and antifungal activity against the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. A clear structure-activity relationship between the size of the inhibition zone and the value of ClogP was found for 2. These results suggest that the higher the lipophilicity, the lower the antifungal activity. Thus, 2e (R=H) and 2h (R=F), which had ClogP values of 1.18 and 1.45, respectively, were most active. In contrast, 2b (R=Ph) and 2f (R=t-Bu) had ClogP values of 3.06 and 3.00, respectively, and exhibited no antifungal activity. Compound 6b ClBi[5-(OH)C6H(3)-2-SO(2)-5'-(OH)C6H(3)-1'-] had an estimated ClogP value of 0.81 but exhibited only low activity in spite of its low ClogP value, suggesting that such a considerable decrease in lipophilicity lowers inhibition activity. Bismuth carboxylate 7b derived from p-nitrobenzoic acid and 2e exhibited inhibition activity comparable to those of 2e and 2h despite its higher lipophilicity (ClogP=2.68). Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Articular Cartilage of the Human Knee Joint: In Vivo Multicomponent T2 Analysis at 3.0 T

PubMed Central

Choi, Kwang Won; Samsonov, Alexey; Spencer, Richard G.; Wilson, John J.; Block, Walter F.; Kijowski, Richard

2015-01-01

Purpose To compare multicomponent T2 parameters of the articular cartilage of the knee joint measured by using multicomponent driven equilibrium single-shot observation of T1 and T2 (mcDESPOT) in asymptomatic volunteers and patients with osteoarthritis. Materials and Methods This prospective study was performed with institutional review board approval and with written informed consent from all subjects. The mcDESPOT sequence was performed in the knee joint of 13 asymptomatic volunteers and 14 patients with osteoarthritis of the knee. Single-component T2 (T2Single), T2 of the fast-relaxing water component (T2F) and of the slow-relaxing water component (T2S), and the fraction of the fast-relaxing water component (FF) of cartilage were measured. Wilcoxon rank-sum tests and multivariate linear regression models were used to compare mcDESPOT parameters between volunteers and patients with osteoarthritis. Receiver operating characteristic analysis was used to assess diagnostic performance with mcDESPOT parameters for distinguishing morphologically normal cartilage from morphologically degenerative cartilage identified at magnetic resonance imaging in eight cartilage subsections of the knee joint. Results Higher cartilage T2Single (P < .001), lower cartilage FF (P < .001), and similar cartilage T2F (P = .079) and T2S (P = .124) values were seen in patients with osteoarthritis compared with those in asymptomatic volunteers. Differences in T2Single and FF remained significant (P < .05) after consideration of age differences between groups of subjects. Diagnostic performance was higher with FF than with T2Single for distinguishing between normal and degenerative cartilage (P < .05), with greater areas under the curve at receiver operating characteristic analysis. Conclusion Patients with osteoarthritis of the knee had significantly higher cartilage T2Single and significantly lower cartilage FF than did asymptomatic volunteers, and receiver operating characteristic analysis results suggested that FF may allow greater diagnostic performance than that with T2Single for distinguishing between normal and degenerative cartilage. © RSNA, 2015 Online supplemental material is available for this article. PMID:26024307

Short-term transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation reduces pain and improves the masticatory muscle activity in temporomandibular disorder patients: a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Ferreira, Ana Paula de Lima; Costa, Dayse Regina Alves da; Oliveira, Ana Izabela Sobral de; Carvalho, Elyson Adam Nunes; Conti, Paulo César Rodrigues; Costa, Yuri Martins; Bonjardim, Leonardo Rigoldi

2017-01-01

To investigate the short-term effect of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) by examining pain intensity, pressure pain threshold (PPT) and electromyography (EMG) activity in patients with temporomandibular disorder (TMD). Forty patients with myofascial TMD were enrolled in this randomized placebo-controlled trial and were divided into two groups: active (n=20) and placebo (n=20) TENS. Outcome variables assessed at baseline (T0), immediately after (T2) and 48 hours after treatment (T1) were: pain intensity with the aid of a visual analogue scale (VAS); PPT of masticatory and cervical structures; EMG activity during mandibular rest position (MR), maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) and habitual chewing (HC). Two-way ANOVA for repeated measures was applied to the data and the significance level was set at 5%. There was a decrease in the VAS values at T1 and T2 when compared with T0 values in the active TENS group (p<0.050). The PPT between-group differences were significant at T1 assessment of the anterior temporalis and sternocleidomastoid (SCM) and T2 for the masseter and the SCM (p<0.050). A significant EMG activity reduction of the masseter and anterior temporalis was presented in the active TENS during MR at T1 assessment when compared with T0 (p<0.050). The EMG activity of the anterior temporalis was significantly higher in the active TENS during MVC at T1 and T2 when compared with placebo (p<0.050). The EMG activity of the masseter and anterior temporalis muscle was significantly higher in the active TENS during HC at T1 when compared with placebo (p<0.050). The short-term therapeutic effects of TENS are superior to those of the placebo, because of reported facial pain, deep pain sensitivity and masticatory muscle EMG activity improvement.

Synthesis, structure, and magnetic properties of LaTMg and CeTMg (T = Pd, Pt, Au)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gibson, B. J.; Das, A.; Kremer, R. K.; Hoffmann, R.-D.; Pöttgen, R.

2002-05-01

The title compounds were prepared from the elements by reactions in sealed tantalum tubes in a water-cooled sample chamber of a high-frequency furnace. They crystallize with the ZrNiAl-type structure, space group P bar 6 2m. The structures of the cerium compounds were refined from single-crystal x-ray diffraction data: a = 767.3(1) pm, c = 410.37(4) pm, wR2 = 0.0324, 521 F2-values for CePdMg; a = 755.02(7) pm, c = 413.82(4) pm, wR2 = 0.0393, 514 F2-values for CePtMg; and a = 774.1(3) pm, c = 421.6(1) pm, wR2 = 0.0355, 395 F2-values for CeAuMg, with 14 variables for each refinement. The palladium compound shows a small homogeneity range: CePd1+xMg1-x. The structures contain two crystallographically different transition metal sites T1 and T2 which are located in tri-capped trigonal prisms: [T1 Mg6Ce3] and [T2 Ce6Mg3]. Magnetic susceptibility and heat capacity measurements reveal long-range magnetic ordering at 2.1(2) K for CePdMg, 3.6(2) K for CePtMg, and 2.0(2) K for CeAuMg. Curie-Weiss behaviour at higher temperatures shows that the cerium ions are in the 3+ oxidation state. The isotypic LaTMg compounds are Pauli paramagnetic down to lowest temperatures (T = 0.3 K). All the compounds, RETMg (RE = La, Ce; T = Pd, Pt, Au) show metallic behaviour.

[Associations between vegetables and fruit intake and quality of life in breast cancer patients].

PubMed

Gong, Xiaohuan; Wang, Jiwei; Chen, Xuefen; Shi, Changhong; Sun, Li; Zhang, Qingyun; Yuan, Zhengping; Yu, Jinming

2014-11-01

To investigate the associations between vegetables and fruit intake and quality of life in breast cancer patients. A total of 3 344 community breast cancer patients were selected through cluster sampling method between April and July 2013, in Shanghai, China. Data were collected using a questionnaire, which included socio-demographic situation, cancer survival and health behaviors(i.e. vegetables or fruit intake, exercise), European Organization for Research and Treatment (EORTC) QLQ-C30 Simplified Chinese version(3rd edition) and Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy scale (FACT-G) Simplified Chinese version(4th edition) were used to evaluate the quality of life. Crude quality of life scores were compared between groups. Multiple linear models were used to calculate and compare adjusted means of quality of life between groups, controlling relevant factors. After adjusting relevant factors, breast cancer patients who ate more than 250 g vegetables reported higher EORTC physical functioning scores, cognitive functioning scores, emotional functioning scores, global health scores than patients who ate equal or less than 250 g vegetables(respectively (80.79 ± 0.85) vs (79.34 ± 0.82), (80.07 ± 1.03) vs (77.84 ± 0.99), (84.17 ± 0.95) vs (82.76 ± 0.92), (65.75 ± 1.50) vs (62.92 ± 1.45)), t values respectively were 2.76, 3.54, 2.40, 3.17, all P values were <0.05; and breast cancer patients who ate more than 250 g vegetables reported higher FACT-G social well-being scores, function well-being scores, FACT-G total scores than patients who ate equal or less than 250 g vegetables (respectively (17.92 ± 0.40) vs (17.31 ± 0.39), (14.86 ± 0.42) vs (14.34 ± 0.40), (74.78 ± 1.01) vs (73.05 ± 0.97)), t values respectively were 2.49, 2.05, 2.90, all P values were <0.05. After adjusting relevant factors, breast cancer patients who ate fruit everyday reported higher EORTC physical functioning scores, role functioning scores, cognitive functioning scores, emotional functioning scores, social functioning scores, global health scores than patients who didn't eat fruit everyday (respectively (80.40 ± 0.82) vs (79.22 ± 0.87), (89.81 ± 1.00) vs (88.06 ± 1.05), (79.78 ± 0.99) vs (77.11 ± 1.04), (84.43 ± 0.92) vs (81.56 ± 0.97), (77.95 ± 1.25) vs (75.56 ± 1.31), (65.48 ± 1.44) vs (61.74 ± 1.51)), t values respectively were 2.15, 2.64, 4.07, 4.71, 2.89, 4.02, all P values were <0.05; and breast cancer patients who ate fruit everyday reported higher FACT-G physical well-being scores, social well-being scores, emotional well-being scores, functional well-being scores, FACT-G total scores than patients who didn't eat fruit everyday(respectively (23.35 ± 0.26) vs (22.85 ± 0.28), (17.91 ± 0.39) vs (16.98 ± 0.41), (18.59 ± 0.22) vs (18.18 ± 0.23), (14.79 ± 0.40) vs (14.17 ± 0.42), (74.71 ± 0.97) vs (72.17 ± 1.02)), t values respectively were 2.92, 3.65, 2.91, 2.35, 4.05 , all P values were <0.05. There are active associations between vegetables / fruit intake and quality of life in breast cancer patients. Proper diet may help improve quality of life in breast cancer patients.

Optimization of T2-weighted imaging for shoulder magnetic resonance arthrography by synthetic magnetic resonance imaging.

PubMed

Lee, Seung Hyun; Lee, Young Han; Hahn, Seok; Yang, Jaemoon; Song, Ho-Taek; Suh, Jin-Suck

2017-01-01

Background Synthetic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) allows reformatting of various synthetic images by adjustment of scanning parameters such as repetition time (TR) and echo time (TE). Optimized MR images can be reformatted from T1, T2, and proton density (PD) values to achieve maximum tissue contrast between joint fluid and adjacent soft tissue. Purpose To demonstrate the method for optimization of TR and TE by synthetic MRI and to validate the optimized images by comparison with conventional shoulder MR arthrography (MRA) images. Material and Methods Thirty-seven shoulder MRA images acquired by synthetic MRI were retrospectively evaluated for PD, T1, and T2 values at the joint fluid and glenoid labrum. Differences in signal intensity between the fluid and labrum were observed between TR of 500-6000 ms and TE of 80-300 ms in T2-weighted (T2W) images. Conventional T2W and synthetic images were analyzed for diagnostic agreement of supraspinatus tendon abnormalities (kappa statistics) and image quality scores (one-way analysis of variance with post-hoc analysis). Results Optimized mean values of TR and TE were 2724.7 ± 1634.7 and 80.1 ± 0.4, respectively. Diagnostic agreement for supraspinatus tendon abnormalities between conventional and synthetic MR images was excellent (κ = 0.882). The mean image quality score of the joint space in optimized synthetic images was significantly higher compared with those in conventional and synthetic images (2.861 ± 0.351 vs. 2.556 ± 0.607 vs. 2.750 ± 0.439; P < 0.05). Conclusion Synthetic MRI with optimized TR and TE for shoulder MRA enables optimization of soft-tissue contrast.

DNA Damage in Vicia faba by Exposure to Agricultural Soils from Tlaxcala, Mexico.

PubMed

Juárez-Santacruz, L; García-Nieto, E; García-Gallegos, E; Romo-Gómez, C; Ortiz-Ortiz, E; Costilla-Salazar, R; Luna-Zendejas, H S

2015-12-01

The aim of this research was to quantify some POPs, such as p,p' DDT, p,p' DDE, and PCBs in agricultural soils of Tlaxcala, Mexico and evaluate their capacity for eliciting DNA damage, using Vicia faba as bioindicator. The values of ΣDDTs and ΣPCBs ranged from 8-24 to 118-26,983 µg/kg, respectively. The samples T1 (HQ = 9.3) and T2 (HQ = 53.9) showed concentrations of ΣPCBs higher than Canadian guidelines (SQGE = 500 µg/kg). The genotoxicity testing produced percentages of DNA fragmentation higher than negative control and statistically significant (p < 0.05), both in agricultural soils and organic extracts. The soils T2, T3, N4, and N5 showed a DICA from 2.6 to 3.1 times, statistically higher (p < 0.05) than negative control. In general, the agricultural soils have greater genotoxic capacity than the organic extracts, suggesting a potential risk to biota that depends upon this ecosystem.

Environmental challenges and physiological solutions: comparative energetic daily rhythms of field mice populations from different ecosystems.

PubMed

Scantlebury, Michael; Haim, Abraham

2012-01-01

Daily and seasonal variations in physiological characteristics of mammals can be considered adaptations to temporal habitat variables. Across different ecosystems, physiological adjustments are expected to be sensitive to different environmental signals such as changes in photoperiod, temperature or water and food availability; the relative importance of a particular signal being dependent on the ecosystem in question. Energy intake, oxygen consumption (VO(2)) and body temperature (T(b)) daily rhythms were compared between two populations of the broad-toothed field mouse Apodemus mystacinus, one from a Mediterranean and another from a sub-Alpine ecosystem. Mice were acclimated to short-day (SD) 'winter' and long-day (LD) 'summer' photoperiods under different levels of salinity simulating osmotic challenges. Mediterranean mice had higher VO(2) values than sub-Alpine mice. In addition, mice exposed to short days had higher VO(2) values when given water with a high salinity compared with mice exposed to long days. By comparison, across both populations, increasing salinity resulted in a decreased T(b) in SD- but not in LD-mice. Thus, SD-mice may conserve energy by decreasing T(b) during ('winter') conditions which are expected to be cool, whereas LD-mice might do the opposite and maintain a higher T(b) during ('summer') conditions which are expected to be warm. LD-mice behaved to reduce energy expenditure, which might be considered a useful trait during 'summer' conditions. Overall, increasing salinity was a clear signal for Mediterranean-mice with resultant effects on VO(2) and T(b) daily rhythms but had less of an effect on sub-Alpine mice, which were more responsive to changes in photoperiod. Results provide an insight into how different populations respond physiologically to various environmental challenges.

Hepatic extraction and renal production of 3,3'-diiodothyronine and 3',5'-diiodothyronine in man.

PubMed Central

Faber, J; Faber, O K; Lund, B; Kirkegaard, C; Wahren, J

1980-01-01

The sequential deiodination of thyroxine (T4) gives rise to several iodothyronine analogs including 3,3'-diiodothyronine (3,3'-T2) and 3',5'-diiodothyronine (3',5'-T2). In vitro animal studies suggest that the liver and the kidneys are the main sites of both formation and degradation of 3,3'-T2 and 3',5'-T2. To determine the metabolism of 3,3'-T2 and 3',5'-T2 in human liver and kidneys plasma samples were obtained from (a) a brachial artery and a hepatic vein in 20 normal subjects, and from (b) a femoral artery and a renal vein in 11 normal subjects. Further, the hepatic plasma flow (a) and the renal plasma flow (b) were determined. Both plasma 3,3'-T2 and 3',5'-T2 levels were reduced in the hepatic venous blood as compared to arterial values (1.09 +/- 0.40 vs. 1.75 +/- 0.74 ng/dl (P < 0.02)) (mean +/- 1 SD). This resulted in a hepatic extraction of both, 3,3'-T2 and 3',5'-T2, which averaged 8.2 and 5.2 microgram/d, respectively. Plasma 3,3'-T2 as well as 3'5'-T2 levels were higher in the renal vein as compared to arterial values, 1.49 +/- 0.42 vs. 1.39 +/- 0.45 ng/dl (P < 0.05) and 2.35 +/- 0.83 vs. 2.09 +/- 0.81 ng/dl (P < 0.05), respectively. This positive venoarterial difference implies a net production of 3,3'-T2 and 3',5'-T2 in the kidneys of 1.2 and 3.0 microgram/d, respectively. It is concluded that the liver is an important site of 3,3'-T2 and 3',5'-T2 extraction in normal man. In contrast, the renal production of 3,3'-T2 as well as 3'5'-T2 exceeds the degradation and urinary excretion. PMID:6776146

Myelin content changes in probable Alzheimer's disease and mild cognitive impairment: Associations with age and severity of neuropsychiatric impairment.

PubMed

Kavroulakis, Eleftherios; Simos, Panagiotis G; Kalaitzakis, Georgios; Maris, Thomas G; Karageorgou, Dimitra; Zaganas, Ioannis; Panagiotakis, Simeon; Basta, Maria; Vgontzas, Alexandros; Papadaki, Efrosini

2018-05-01

Existing indices of white matter integrity such as fractional anisotropy and magnetization transfer ratio may not provide optimal specificity to myelin content. In contrast, myelin water fraction (MWF) derived from the multiecho T 2 relaxation time technique may serve as a more direct measure of myelin content. The goal of the present study was to identify markers of regional demyelination in patients with probable Alzheimer's disease (AD) and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) in relation to age and severity of neuropsychiatric impairment. The sample included patients diagnosed with probable AD (n = 25) or MCI (n = 43), and cognitively intact elderly controls (n = 33). Long T 2 , short T 2 , and MWF values were measured with a 1.5T scanner in periventricular and deep normal-appearing white matter (NAWM), serving as indices of intra/extracellular water content and myelin content. A comprehensive neuropsychological and neuropsychiatric assessment was administered to all participants. AD patients displayed higher age-adjusted long and short T 2 values and reduced MWF values in left temporal/parietal and bilateral periventricular NAWM than controls and MCI patients (P < 0.004; one-way analysis of covariance [ANCOVA] tests). Short T 2 /MWF values in temporal, frontal, and periventricular NAWM of controls and/or MCI patients were significantly associated with episodic and semantic memory performance and depressive symptomatology (P < 0.004; partial correlation indices). The impact of age on memory performance was significantly (P < 0.01; mediated linear regression analyses) mediated by age-related changes in short T 2 and MWF values in these regions. Age-related demyelination is associated with memory impairment (especially in prodromal dementia states) and symptoms of depression in an anatomically specific manner. 1 Technical Efficacy: Stage 3 J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2018;47:1359-1372. © 2017 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.

Airway humidification with a heat and moisture exchanger in mechanically ventilated neonates : a preliminary evaluation.

PubMed

Fassassi, Mikaïla; Michel, Fabrice; Thomachot, Laurent; Nicaise, Claire; Vialet, Renaud; Jammes, Yves; Lagier, Pierre; Martin, Claude

2007-02-01

We set out to evaluate the efficacy of passive inspiratory gas conditioning in mechanically ventilated neonates and compared it with that of a heated humidifier (HH). Prospective, randomized, controlled study. Neonatal and pediatric intensive care unit. Fourteen mechanically ventilated neonates nursed in incubators. The HH was set to deliver a temperature of 37 degrees C and an absolute humidity of 40 mgH(2)O/l at the incubator entrance. Inspired temperature (T degrees ) and absolute humidity (AH) were measured by the psychometric method, transpulmonary pressure (Tpres) by means of a differential pressure transducer. Measurements were performed at 5, 10, and 15 min. The values of T degrees were significantly higher using the HH (34.6+/-1.6 degrees C) than the heat and moisture exchanger (HME) (33.8+/2.3, p<0.001). The values of AH were significantly higher using the HH (36.6+/-2.5 mgH(2)O/l) than the HME (32.4+/-2.8 mgH(2)O/l, p<0.001). No significant changes were observed in transpulmonary pressure. A significant positive correlation was observed between incubator temperature and the temperature delivered by the HH (R(2)=0.61, p<0.001). The use of HMEs in neonates made it possible to achieve an absolute humidity of 28 mgH(2)O/l or more and a temperature of 30 degrees C or more. Higher values are obtained using a HH.

T1ρ is superior to T2 mapping for the evaluation of articular cartilage denaturalization with osteoarthritis: radiological-pathological correlation after total knee arthroplasty.

PubMed

Takayama, Yukihisa; Hatakenaka, Masamitsu; Tsushima, Hidetoshi; Okazaki, Ken; Yoshiura, Takashi; Yonezawa, Masato; Nishikawa, Kei; Iwamoto, Yukihide; Honda, Hiroshi

2013-04-01

We compared the diagnostic performance of T1ρ and T2 mappings in the evaluation of denatured articular cartilage with osteoarthritis of the knee. 2D-Sagittal T1ρ and T2 mappings of the knee were obtained from 16 patients before total knee arthroplasty. After surgery, specimens of the femur and tibia were regionally segmented according to a 5-point scale of the severity of denaturalization. The T1ρ and T2 values in the full thickness of the articular cartilage in each region were measured by two observers. The two mappings were compared for their ability to differentiate between normal and denatured articular cartilage and also for their usefulness in grading the severity of the denaturalization using the area under receiver operating characteristic curves (Az). A p<0.05 was considered significant for each analysis. The T1ρ mapping showed a significantly higher Az value than the T2 mapping for the differentiation between normal and denatured articular cartilage (p<0.05). Regarding the assessment of the severity of denaturalization, T1ρ mapping could differentiate between normal and mild denaturalization (p<0.05), but T2 mapping could not. However, there were no significant differences between the two mappings in the discrimination of mild versus moderate denaturalization or of moderate versus severe denaturalization. The two observers showed good agreement in the results (intraclass correlation coefficient=0.81 for T1ρ and 0.92 for T2). T1ρ mapping is superior to T2 mapping for the evaluation of denatured articular cartilage with osteoarthritis of the knee. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Quantitative Skeletal Muscle MRI: Part 2, MR Spectroscopy and T2 Relaxation Time Mapping-Comparison Between Boys With Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy and Healthy Boys.

PubMed

Kim, Hee Kyung; Serai, Suraj; Lindquist, Diana; Merrow, Arnold C; Horn, Paul S; Kim, Dong Hoon; Wong, Brenda L

2015-08-01

The purpose of this study is to validate the use of MR spectroscopy (MRS) in measuring muscular fat and to compare it with T2 maps in differentiating boys with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) from healthy boys. Forty-two boys with DMD and 31 healthy boys were evaluated with MRI with (1)H-MRS and T2 maps. Grading of muscle fat and edema on conventional images, calculation of fat fractions ([fat / fat] + water) on MRS, and calculation of T2 fat values on T2 maps of the gluteus maximus and vastus lateralis muscles were performed. Group comparisons were made. The 95% reference interval (RI) of fat fraction for the control group was applied and compared with T2 map results. Minimal fat on T1-weighted images was seen in 90.3% (gluteus maximus) and 71.0% (vastus lateralis) of healthy boys, versus 33.3% (gluteus maximus) and 52.4% (vastus lateralis) of boys with DMD. Muscle edema was seen in none of the healthy boys versus 52.4% (gluteus maximus) and 57.1% (vastus lateralis) of the boys with DMD. Fat fractions were higher in the DMD group (52.7%, gluteus maximus; 27.3%, vastus lateralis) than in the control group (12.8%, gluteus maximus; 13.7%, vastus lateralis) (p < 0.001). The 95% RI for gluteus maximus (38.7%) resulted in 61.9% sensitivity and 100% specificity for differentiating boys with DMD from healthy boys, whereas the value for vastus lateralis (17.8%) resulted in 76.2% sensitivity and 100% specificity; both had lower accuracy than did T2 maps (100% sensitivity and specificity). There was a positive correlation between T2 fat values and fat fractions (p < 0.0001). In differentiation of the two groups, T2 maps were more accurate than MRS. Fat fractions can underestimate the actual amount of fat because of coexisting muscle edema in DMD.

Cold-batter mincing of hot-boned and crust-freezing air-chilled turkey breast improved meat turnover time and product quality.

PubMed

Medellin-Lopez, M; Sansawat, T; Strasburg, G; Marks, B P; Kang, I

2014-03-01

The purpose of this research was to evaluate the combined effects of turkey hot-boning and cold-batter mincing technology on acceleration of meat turnover and meat quality improvement. For each of 3 replications, 15 turkeys were slaughtered and eviscerated. Three of the eviscerated carcasses were randomly assigned to water-immersion chilling for chill-boning (CB) and the remaining were immediately hot-boned (HB), half of which were used without chilling whereas the remaining were subjected to crust-freezing air chilling (CFAC) in an air-freezing room (1.0 m/s, -12°C) with/without 1/4; sectioning (HB-1/4;CFAC, HB-CFAC). As a result, CB and HB breasts were minced using 1 of 5 treatments: (1) CB and traditional mincing (CB-T), (2) HB and mincing with no chilling (HB-NC), (3) HB and mincing with CO2 (HB-CO2), (4) HB and mincing after CFAC (HB-CFAC), and (5) HB and mincing after quarter sectioning and CFAC (HB-1/4;CFAC). Traditional water-immersion chilling took an average of 5.5 h to reduce the breast temperature to 4°C, whereas HB-CFAC and HB-1/4;CFAC took 1.5 and 1 h, respectively. The breast of HB-CFAC and HB-1/4;CFAC showed significantly higher pH (6.0-6.1), higher fragmentation index (196-198), and lower R-value (1.0-1.1; P < 0.05) than those of the CB controls. No significant differences (P > 0.05) in sarcomere length were seen between CB-T and HB-CFAC filets regardless of quarter sectioning. When muscle was minced, the batter pH (5.9) of CB-T was significantly lower (P < 0.05) than those (6.1-6.3) of HB-NC, HB-CO2, and HB-1/4;CFAC, with the intermediate pH (6.0) seen for the HB-CFAC. When meat batters were cooked, higher cooking yield (90 - 91%; P < 0.05) was found in HB-CFAC, HB-1/4;CFAC, and HB-CO2, followed by HB-NC (90%) and finally CB-T (86%). Stress values (47-51 kPa) of HB-CFAC gels were significantly higher (P < 0.05) than those of CB-T (30 kPa) and HB-NC (36 kPa). A similar trend was found in strain values.

Effects of Autoclaving Soy-Free and Soy-Containing Diets for Laboratory Rats on Protein and Energy Values Determined In Vitro and In Vivo

PubMed Central

Taciak, Marcin; Tuśnio, Anna; Święch, Ewa; Barszcz, Marcin; Staśkiewicz, Łukasz; Skomiał, Jacek; Paradziej-Łukowicz, Jolanta; Pastuszewska, Barbara

2015-01-01

Autoclaving diminishes the nutritional value of rat diets, depending on the duration and temperature of the process and the type of dietary protein. We evaluated in vivo and in vitro the effects of autoclaving on the protein and energy values of soy-free and soy-containing rat diets. The true digestibility and biological value of the dietary protein were determined in a 10-d experiment involving 28-d-old Wistar Crl:WI(Han) male rats fed casein- or soy-containing diet that was autoclaved for 20 min at 121 °C (T1), 10 min at 134 °C (T2), or not autoclaved (T0). The apparent protein digestibility and metabolizable energy concentration of experimental diets were assayed during an 18-d trial involving 6-wk-old Wistar-Crl:WI(Han) male rats and compared with a commercial diet. The neutral detergent fiber (NDF) content, amount of protein bound to NDF, protein solubility, and in vitro ileal protein digestibility were determined. Autoclaving decreased protein solubility, with the T2 condition having a greater effect than that of T1, and decreased the protein parameters determined in vivo, except for the apparent digestibility of the standard rat diet. Autoclaving decreased metabolizable energy slightly. The Atwater formula yielded higher values than those determined in rats, in vitro, and calculated according to the pig equation. We conclude that autoclaving diets according to the T1 program was less detrimental to dietary protein than was T2 and that the NDF content and protein solubility may be helpful in assessing the effect of autoclaving. The pig formula and in vitro method appear to be valid for estimating the metabolizable energy of rat diets. PMID:26424248

Elevated frequencies of micronuclei in pregnant women with type 1 diabetes mellitus and in their newborns.

PubMed

Witczak, Monika; Ferenc, Tomasz; Gulczyńska, Ewa; Nowakowska, Dorota; Łopaczyńska, Dobrosława; Wilczyński, Jan

2014-03-15

Pregestational diabetes mellitus (type 1 and type 2) affects about 1% of the obstetric population. In diabetes, persistent hyperglycemia can be a source of DNA damage via overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Using the cytokinesis-block micronucleus (CBMN) test, we measured the frequencies of micronuclei (MN) per 1000 binucleated (BN) cells in pregnant women (mothers) with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) and in their newborns. Peripheral blood lymphocytes were collected from 17 pregnant women with T1DM and cord-blood lymphocytes from their 17 newborns. The control group included 40 pregnant women (mothers) without diabetes mellitus (DM) and their 40 newborns. In the group of pregnant women with T1DM, the mean number of MN per 1000 BN cells was 2.35 (±1.07), significantly (p<0.001) higher than in the control group of pregnant women (0.86±0.90). The frequency value in the group of newborns of T1DM mothers was 1.42 (±0.60), significantly (p<0.05) higher than in the corresponding control group (0.67±0.79). The value in the group of mothers with T1DM was significantly (p<0.05) higher than in their newborns. Comparing mothers without DM with their newborns, no significant frequency differences were observed. No significant correlations were observed between MN frequencies in mothers with T1DM and either the frequencies in their newborns, the duration of diabetes, or HbA1C levels. Our results indicate that T1DM is accompanied by increased frequencies of MN in pregnant women and their newborns. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

99mTc-3P4-RGD2 Scintimammography in the Assessment of Breast Lesions: Comparative Study with 99mTc-MIBI

PubMed Central

Gao, Shi; Ji, Tiefeng; Wen, Qiang; Song, Yan; Zhu, Lei; Xu, Zheli; Liu, Lin

2014-01-01

Purpose To compare the potential application of 99mTc-3P-Arg-Gly-Asp (99mTc-3P4-RGD2) scintimammography (SMM) and 99mTc-methoxyisobutylisonitrile (99mTc-MIBI) SMM for the differentiation of malignant from benign breast lesions. Method Thirty-six patients with breast masses on physical examination and/or suspicious mammography results that required fine needle aspiration cytology biopsy (FNAB) were included in the study. 99mTc-3P4-RGD2 and 99mTc-MIBI SMM were performed with single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) at 60 min and 20 min respectively after intravenous injection of 738±86 MBq radiotracers on a separate day. Images were evaluated by the tumor to non-tumor localization ratios (T/NT). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was performed on each radiotracer to calculate the cut-off values of quantitative indices and to compare the diagnostic performance for the ability to differentiate malignant from benign diseases. Results The mean T/NT ratio of 99mTc-3P4-RGD2 in malignant lesions was significantly higher than that in benign lesions (3.54±1.51 vs. 1.83±0.98, p<0.001). The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of 99mTc-3P4-RGD2 SMM were 89.3%, 90.9% and 89.7%, respectively, with a T/NT cut-off value of 2.40. The mean T/NT ratio of 99mTc-MIBI in malignant lesions was also significantly higher than that in benign lesions (2.86±0.99 vs. 1.51±0.61, p<0.001). The sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of 99mTc-MIBI SMM were 87.5%, 72.7% and 82.1%, respectively, with a T/NT cut-off value of 1.45. According to the ROC analysis, the area under the curve for 99mTc-3P4-RGD2 SMM (area = 0.851) was higher than that for 99mTc-MIBI SMM (area = 0.781), but the statistical difference was not significant. Conclusion 99mTc-3P4-RGD2 SMM does not provide any significant advantage over the established 99mTc-MIBI SMM for the detection of primary breast cancer. The T/NT ratio of 99mTc-3P4-RGD2 SMM was significantly higher than that of 99mTc-MIBI SMM. Both tracers could offer an alternative method for elucidating non-diagnostic mammograms. PMID:25250628

Comparative magnitude and kinetics of human cytomegalovirus-specific CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ T-cell responses in pregnant women with primary versus remote infection and in transmitting versus non-transmitting mothers: Its utility for dating primary infection in pregnancy.

PubMed

Fornara, Chiara; Furione, Milena; Arossa, Alessia; Gerna, Giuseppe; Lilleri, Daniele

2016-07-01

To discriminate between primary (PI) and remote (RI) human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) infection, several immunological parameters were monitored for a 2-year period in 53 pregnant women with PI, and 33 pregnant women experiencing HCMV PI at least 5 years prior. Cytokine (IFN-γ and IL-2) production by and phenotype (effector/memory CD45RA(+)) of HCMV-specific CD4(+) and CD8(+) T-cells as well as the lymphoproliferative responses (LPR) were evaluated, with special reference to the comparison between a group of women transmitting (T) and a group of non-transmitting (NT) the infection to fetus. While HCMV-specific CD4(+) T-cells reached at 90 days post-infection (p.i.) values comparable to RI, CD8(+) T-cells reached at 60 days p.i. levels significantly higher and persisting throughout the entire follow-up. Instead, IL-2 production and lymphoproliferative responses were lower in PI than RI for the entire follow-up period. Effector memory CD45RA(+) CD4(+) and CD8(+) HCMV-specific T-cells increased until 90 days p.i., reaching and maintaining levels higher than RI. The comparison between T and NT women showed that, at 30 days p.i., in NT women there was a significantly higher IL-2 production by HCMV-specific CD4(+) T-cells, and at 60 days p.i. a significantly higher frequency of both specific CD4(+) and CD8(+) CD45RA(+) T-cells. HCMV T-cell response appears to correlate with virus transmission to fetus and some parameters (CD4(+) lymphoproliferation, and frequency of HCMV-specific CD8(+) IL2(+) T-cells) may help in dating PI during pregnancy. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Glass transition and viscosity of P/sub 2/O/sub 5/

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

Martin, S.W.; Angell, C.A.

1986-12-04

The calorimetric glass transition temperature T/sub g/ for pure anhydrous P/sub 2/O/sub 5/ melted in sealed SiO/sub 2/ ampules at 1000 /sup 0/C has been obtained directly for the first time with differential scanning calorimetry, and the increase in heat capacity at T/sub g/ has been determined. T/sub g/ measured in this way is 57 K higher than the value quoted in the literature, which is probably based on an Arrhenius law extrapolation of viscosity data to eta = 10/sup 13/ P. Combining the high-temperature viscosity data with the common observation that, for oxide glasses, eta = 10/sup 12/ Pmore » at the DSC T/sub g/, the authors find that the P/sub 2/O/sub 5/ viscosity obeys an Arrhenius law over at least 6 decades of eta. Furthermore, the intercept at 1/T = 0 coincides with the common point of T/sub g/ - reduced viscosity plots for a wide variety of liquids recently used in establishing the strong vs. fragile classification of glass-forming liquids. On this basis, P/sub 2/O/sub 5/ behaves as the archetypal strong liquid. However, the value of C/sub p/(liquid)/C/sub p/(glass) at T/sub g/, 1.27, is larger than expected on this basis since other strong liquids show smaller values, e.g., GeO/sub 2/ (1.09) and BeF/sub 2/ (no ..delta..C/sub p/ detected). The dependence of T/sub g/ on heating rate has been determined and shows that enthalpy relaxation in the transition region has, within error, the same activation energy (43.9 kcal/mol) as for viscous flow.« less

Self-duality and a Hall-insulator phase near the superconductor-to-insulator transition in indium-oxide films.

PubMed

Breznay, Nicholas P; Steiner, Myles A; Kivelson, Steven Allan; Kapitulnik, Aharon

2016-01-12

We combine measurements of the longitudinal (ρxx) and Hall (ρxy) resistivities of disordered 2D amorphous indium-oxide films to study the magnetic-field tuned superconductor-to-insulator transition (H-SIT) in the T --> 0 limit. At the critical field, Hc, the full resistivity tensor is T independent with ρxx(Hc) = h/4e(2) and ρxy(Hc) = 0 within experimental uncertainty in all films (i.e., these appear to be "universal" values); this is strongly suggestive that there is a particle-vortex self-duality at H = Hc. The transition separates the (presumably) superconducting state at H < Hc from a "Hall-insulator" phase in which ρxx --> ∞ as T --> 0 whereas ρxy approaches a nonzero value smaller than its "classical value" H/nec; i.e., 0 < ρxy < H/nec. A still higher characteristic magnetic field, Hc* > Hc, at which the Hall resistance is T independent and roughly equal to its classical value, ρxy ≈ H/nec, marks an additional crossover to a high-field regime (probably to a Fermi insulator) in which ρxy > H/nec and possibly diverges as T --> 0. We also highlight a profound analogy between the H-SIT and quantum-Hall liquid-to-insulator transitions (QHIT).

Anisotropic Thermal Expansion of Zirconium Diboride: An Energy-Dispersive X-Ray Diffraction Study

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

Paxton, William A.; Özdemir, Tevfik E.; Şavklıyıldız, İlyas

Zirconiumore » m diboride (ZrB 2) is an attractive material due to its thermal and electrical properties. In recent years, ZrB 2has been investigated as a superior replacement for sapphire when used as a substrate for gallium nitride devices. Like sapphire, ZrB 2has an anisotropic hexagonal structure which defines its directionally dependent properties. However, the anisotropic behavior of ZrB 2is not well understood. In this paper, we use energy-dispersive synchrotron X-ray diffraction to measure the thermal expansion of polycrystalline ZrB 2powder from 300 to 1150 K. Nine Bragg reflections are fit using Pseudo-Voigt peak profiles and used to compute the a and c lattice parameters using a nonlinear least-squares approximation. The temperature-dependent instantaneous thermal expansion coefficients are determined for each a -axis and c -axis direction and are described by the following equations: α a = ( 4.1507 × 10 - 6 + 5.1086 × 10 - 9 ( T - 293.15 ) )/( 1 + 4.1507 × 10 - 6 ( T - 293.15 ) + 2.5543 × 10 - 9 ( T - 293.15 ) 2 ) and α c = ( 4.5374 × 10 - 6 + 4.3004 × 10 - 9 ( T - 293.15 ) )/( 1 + 4.5374 × 10 - 6 ( T - 293.15 ) + 2.1502 × 10 - 9 ( T - 293.15 ) 2 ). Our results are within range of previously reported values but describe the temperature anisotropy in more detail. We show that anisotropic expansion coefficients converge to the same value at about 780 K and diverge at higher temperatures. Results are compared with other reported values.« less

Microvessel density in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma.

PubMed

Szafarowski, Tomasz; Sierdzinski, Janusz; Szczepanski, Miroslaw J; Whiteside, Theresa L; Ludwig, Nils; Krzeski, Antoni

2018-05-10

Microvessel density (MVD) corresponds to the intensity of neo-angiogenesis. MVD assessments are based on the expression levels of the vascular endothelium markers such as, e.g., CD34 or CD105. The goal of this study was to assess MVD among patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), and to evaluate the predictive value of MVD in head and neck cancers. The study included 49 patients treated for HNSCC and 11 patients with dysplasia of the upper respiratory tract epithelium. Control tissues consisted of 12 normal mucous membranes of the throat. Expression levels of MVD markers were assessed by immunohistochemistry (IHC) using tissue microarrays (TMA). Clinicopathological factors and patients' survival over the 5-year follow-up period were analyzed. The MVD/CD34 values were found to be significantly elevated in the HNSCCs compared to the non-malignant control tissues (p = 0.001) and to dysplastic tissues. (p = 0.02). Significantly higher MVD/CD105 values were also seen in the tumor compared to the control tissues (p = 0.001) or the dysplastic tissues (p = 0.001). Unexpectedly, significantly lower MVD/CD34 values were seen in the tumor tissues of patients with the T3-T4 tumors compared to those with T1-T2 tumors (p = 0.01). HNSCCs have statistically higher MVD values compared to dysplasia of the upper respiratory tract epithelium. However, the MVD/CD34 values did not correlate with local invasiveness (the T feature) of HNSCCs. This counterintuitive observation suggests that assessments of MVD as performed on TMA by IHC using anti-CD34 or anti-CD105 antibodies considered to be specific for endothelial cell markers might underestimate the extent of the tumor vascularity in HNSCC.

Diagnosis of hepatic metastasis: comparison of respiration-triggered diffusion-weighted echo-planar MRI and five t2-weighted turbo spin-echo sequences.

PubMed

Bruegel, Melanie; Gaa, Jochen; Waldt, Simone; Woertler, Klaus; Holzapfel, Konstantin; Kiefer, Berthold; Rummeny, Ernst J

2008-11-01

The purpose of this study was to compare the value of respiration-triggered diffusion-weighted (DW) single-shot echo-planar MRI (EPI) and five variants of T2-weighted turbo spin-echo (TSE) sequences in the diagnosis of hepatic metastasis. Fifty-two patients with extrahepatic primary malignant tumors underwent 1.5-T MRI that included DW EPI and the following variants of T2-weighted TSE techniques: breath-hold fat-suppressed HASTE, breath-hold fat-supressed TSE, respiration-triggered fat-suppressed TSE, breath-hold STIR, and respiration-triggered STIR. Images were reviewed independently by two blinded observers who used a 5-point confidence scale to identify lesions. Results were correlated with surgical and histopathologic findings and follow-up imaging findings. The accuracy of each technique was measured with free-response receiver operating characteristic analysis. A total of 118 hepatic metastatic lesions (mean diameter, 12.8 mm; range, 3-84 mm) were evaluated. Accuracy values were higher (p < 0.001) with DW EPI (0.91-0.92) than with the T2-weighted TSE techniques (0.47-0.67). Imaging with the HASTE sequence (0.47-0.52) was less accurate (p < 0.05) than imaging with the breath-hold TSE, breath-hold STIR, respiration-triggered TSE, and respiration-triggered STIR sequences (0.59-0.67). Sensitivity was higher (p < 0.001) with DW EPI (0.88-0.91) than with T2-weighted TSE techniques (0.45-0.62). For small (< or = 10 mm) metastatic lesions only, the differences in sensitivity between DW EPI (0.85) and T2-weighted TSE techniques (0.26-0.44) were even more pronounced. DW EPI was more sensitive and more accurate than imaging with T2-weighted TSE techniques. Because of the black-blood effect on vessels and low susceptibility to motion artifacts, DW EPI was particularly useful for the detection of small (< or = 10 mm) metastatic lesions.

Comparison and Optimization of 3.0 T Breast Images Quality of Diffusion-Weighted Imaging with Multiple B-Values.

PubMed

Han, Xiaowei; Li, Junfeng; Wang, Xiaoyi

2017-04-01

Breast 3.0 T magnetic resonance diffusion-weighted imaging (MR-DWI) of benign and malignant lesions were obtained to measure and calculate the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), signal intensity ratio (SIR), and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) of lesions at different b-values. The variation patterns of SNR and SIR were analyzed with different b-values and the images of DWI were compared at four different b-values with higher image quality. The effect of SIR on the differential diagnostic efficiency of benign and malignant lesions was compared using receiver operating characteristic curves to provide a reference for selecting the optimal b-value. A total of 96 qualified patients with 112 lesions and 14 patients with their contralateral 14 normal breasts were included in this study. The single-shot echo planar imaging sequence was used to perform the DWI and a total of 13 b-values were used: 0, 50, 100, 200, 400, 600, 800, 1000, 1200, 1500, 1800, 2000, and 2500 s/mm 2 . On DWI, the suitable regions of interest were selected. The SNRs of normal breasts (SNR normal ), SNR lesions , SIR, and CNR of benign and malignant lesions were measured on DWI with different b-values and calculated. The variation patterns of SNR, SIR, and CNR values on DWI for normal breasts, benign lesions, and malignant lesions with different b-values were analyzed by using Pearson correlation analysis. The SNR and SIR of benign and malignant lesions with the same b-values were compared using t-tests. The diagnostic efficiencies of SIR with different b-values for benign and malignant lesions were evaluated using receiver operating characteristic curves. Breast DWI had higher CNR for b-values ranging from 600 to 1200 s/mm 2 . It had the best CNR at b = 1000 s/mm 2 for the benign lesions and at b = 1200 s/mm 2 for the malignant lesions. The signal intensity and SNR values of normal breasts decreased with increasing b-values, with a negative correlation (r = -0.945, P < 0.01). The mean SNR values of benign and malignant lesions were negatively correlated (r = -0.982 and -0.947, respectively, and P < 0.01), gradually decreasing with increasing b-values. The mean SIR value of benign lesions gradually decreased with increasing b-values, a negative correlation (r = -0.991, P < 0.01). The mean SIR values of malignant lesions gradually increased with increasing b-values between 0 and 1200 s/mm 2 , and gradually decreased with increasing b-values ≥ 1500 s/mm 2 . For b-values of 600, 800, 1000, and 1200 s/mm 2 , the sensitivity and specificity of SIR in identifying benign and malignant lesions gradually increased with increasing b-values, peaking at 1200 s/mm 2 . Breast DWI had higher image quality for b-values ranging from 600 to 1200 s/mm 2 , and was best for b-values ranging from 1000 to 1200 s/mm 2 . The SIR had the highest diagnostic efficiency in differentiating benign and malignant lesions for a b-value of 1200 s/mm 2 . Copyright © 2017 The Association of University Radiologists. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

An Ultra-High Field Study of Cerebellar Pathology in Early Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis Using MP2RAGE.

PubMed

Fartaria, Mário João; OʼBrien, Kieran; Şorega, Alexandra; Bonnier, Guillaume; Roche, Alexis; Falkovskiy, Pavel; Krueger, Gunnar; Kober, Tobias; Bach Cuadra, Meritxell; Granziera, Cristina

2017-05-01

The aim of this study was to study focal cerebellar pathology in early stages of multiple sclerosis (MS) using ultra-high-field magnetization-prepared 2 inversion-contrast rapid gradient-echo (7T MP2RAGE). Twenty early-stage relapsing-remitting MS patients underwent an MP2RAGE acquisition at 7 T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) (images acquired at 2 different resolutions: 0.58 × 0.58 × 0.58 mm, 7T_0.58, and 0.75 × 0.75 × 0.90 mm, 7T_0.75) and 3 T MRI (1.0 × 1.0 × 1.2 mm, 3T_1.0). Total cerebellar lesion load and volume and mean cerebellar lesion volume were compared across images using a Wilcoxon signed-rank test. Mean T1 relaxation times in lesions and normal-appearing tissue as well as contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) measurements were also compared using a Wilcoxon signed-rank test. A multivariate analysis was applied to assess the contribution of MRI metrics to clinical performance in MS patients. Both 7T_0.58 and 7T_0.75 MP2RAGE showed significantly higher lesion load compared with 3T_1.0 MP2RAGE (P < 0.001). Plaques that were judged as leukocortical in 7T_0.75 and 3T_1.0 MP2RAGEs were instead identified as WM lesions in 7T_0.58 MP2RAGE. Cortical lesion CNR was significantly higher in MP2RAGEs at 7 T than at 3 T. Total lesion load as well as total and mean lesion volume obtained at both 7 T and 3 T MP2RAGE significantly predicted attention (P < 0.05, adjusted R = 0.5), verbal fluency (P < 0.01, adjusted R = 0.6), and motor performance (P = 0.01, adjusted R = 0.7). This study demonstrates the value of 7 T MP2RAGE to study the cerebellum in early MS patients. 7T_0.58 MP2RAGE provides a more accurate anatomical description of white and gray matter pathology compared with 7T_0.75 and 3T_1.0 MP2RAGE, likely due to the improved spatial resolution, lower partial volume effects, and higher CNR.

Does Fat Suppression via Chemically Selective Saturation (CHESS) Affect R2*-MRI for Transfusional Iron Overload Assessment? A Clinical Evaluation at 1.5 and 3 Tesla

PubMed Central

Krafft, Axel J.; Loeffler, Ralf B.; Song, Ruitian; Bian, Xiao; McCarville, M. Beth; Hankins, Jane S.; Hillenbrand, Claudia M.

2015-01-01

Purpose Fat suppression (FS) via chemically selective saturation (CHESS) eliminates fat-water oscillations in multi-echo gradient echo (mGRE) R2*-MRI. However, for increasing R2* values as seen with increasing liver iron content (LIC), the water signal spectrally overlaps with the CHESS band, which may alter R2*. Here, we investigate the effect of CHESS on R2* and describe a heuristic correction for the observed CHESS-induced R2* changes. Methods Eighty patients (49/31 female/male, mean age: 18.3±11.7 years) with iron overload were scanned with a non-FS and a CHESS-FS mGRE sequence at 1.5T and 3T. Mean liver R2* values were evaluated using 3 published fitting approaches. Measured and model-corrected R2* values were compared and statistically analyzed. Results At 1.5T, CHESS led to a systematic R2* reduction (P<0.001 for all fitting algorithms) especially toward higher R2*. Our model described the observed changes well and reduced the CHESS-induced R2* bias after correction (linear regression slopes: 1.032/0.927/0.981). No CHESS-induced R2* reductions were found at 3T. Conclusion The CHESS-induced R2* bias at 1.5T needs to be considered when applying R2*-LIC biopsy calibrations for clinical LIC assessment which were established without FS at 1.5T. The proposed model corrects the R2* bias and could therefore improve clinical iron overload assessment based on linear R2*-LIC calibrations. PMID:26308155

Is the T1ρ MRI profile of hyaline cartilage in the normal hip uniform?

PubMed

Rakhra, Kawan S; Cárdenas-Blanco, Arturo; Melkus, Gerd; Schweitzer, Mark E; Cameron, Ian G; Beaulé, Paul E

2015-04-01

T1ρ MRI is an imaging technique sensitive to proteoglycan (PG) content of hyaline cartilage. However, normative T1ρ values have not been established for the weightbearing cartilage of the hip, and it is not known whether it is uniform or whether there is topographic variation. Knowledge of the T1ρ profile of hyaline cartilage in the normal hip is important for establishing a baseline against which comparisons can be made to experimental and clinical arthritic subjects. In this diagnostic study, we determined (1) the T1ρ MRI values of hyaline cartilage of the normal hip; and (2) whether the T1ρ MRI profile of the normal hip hyaline cartilage is uniform. Fourteen asymptomatic volunteers (11 men, three women; mean age, 35 years) prospectively underwent 1.5-T T1ρ MRI of a single hip. The weightbearing hyaline cartilage bilayer of the acetabulum and femoral head was evaluated on sagittal images and segmented into four zones: (1) anterior; (2) anterosuperior; (3) posterosuperior; and (4) and posterior. For the full region of interest and within each zone and each sagittal slice, we calculated the mean T1ρ relaxation value, a parameter that indirectly quantifies PG content, where T1ρ is inversely related to PG concentration. There was variation in the T1ρ relaxation values depending on zone (anterior to posterior) and slice (medial to lateral). When combining the most anterior quadrants (Zones 1 and 2), the T1ρ relaxation values were lower than those in the combined posterior quadrants (Zones 3 and 4) (30.4 msec versus 32.2 msec, respectively; p = 0.002), reflecting higher PG concentration. There was a difference between the T1ρ relaxation values of the sagittal slices (p = 0.038), most pronounced anteriorly in Zone 1 (26.6 msec, p = 0.001). With a selective combination of zones and slices, there were lower mean T1ρ values in the anterolateral-most region compared with the remainder of the weightbearing portion of the hip (28.6 msec versus 32.2 msec, respectively; p = 0.001). The T1ρ profile of normal hyaline cartilage of the hip is not uniform with the topographic differences identified suggesting regional variations in PG concentration. This study, through determination of lower T1ρ relaxation values, suggests inherently greater PG concentrations in the more anterolateral region of the normal hip hyaline cartilage. Furthermore, it demonstrates that T1ρ MRI has the ability to detect even subtle, microscopic local differences in hyaline cartilage composition. This technique has the potential to facilitate basic science and clinical research by serving as a noninvasive surrogate or biomarker of cartilage health and thus may be added to the growing repertoire of advanced, biochemical MRI techniques for evaluating hyaline cartilage.

T2-weighted images are superior to other MR image types for the determination of diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma intratumoral heterogeneity.

PubMed

Harward, Stephen; Harrison Farber, S; Malinzak, Michael; Becher, Oren; Thompson, Eric M

2018-03-01

Diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) remains the main cause of death in children with brain tumors. Given the inefficacy of numerous peripherally delivered agents to treat DIPG, convection enhanced delivery (CED) of therapeutic agents is a promising treatment modality. The purpose of this study was to determine which MR imaging type provides the best discrimination of intratumoral heterogeneity to guide future stereotactic implantation of CED catheters into the most cellular tumor regions. Patients ages 18 years or younger with a diagnosis of DIPG from 2000 to 2015 were included. Radiographic heterogeneity index (HI) of the tumor was calculated by measuring the standard deviation of signal intensity of the tumor (SD Tumor ) normalized to the genu of the corpus callosum (SD Corpus Callosum ). Four MR image types (T2-weighted, contrast-enhanced T1-weighted, FLAIR, and ADC) were analyzed at several time points both before and after radiotherapy and chemotherapy. HI values across these MR image types were compared and correlated with patient survival. MR images from 18 patients with DIPG were evaluated. The mean survival ± standard deviation was 13.8 ± 13.7 months. T2-weighted images had the highest HI (mean ± SD, 5.1 ± 2.5) followed by contrast-enhanced T1-weighted images (3.7 ± 1.5), FLAIR images (3.0 ± 1.1), and ADC maps (1.6 ± 0.4). ANOVA demonstrated that HI values were significantly higher for T2-weighted images than FLAIR (p < 0.01) and ADC (p < 0.0001). Following radiotherapy, T2-weighted and contrast-enhanced T1-weighted image HI values increased, while FLAIR and ADC HI values decreased. Univariate and multivariate analyses did not reveal a relationship between HI values and patient survival (p > 0.05). For children with DIPG, T2-weighted MRI demonstrates the greatest signal intensity variance suggesting tumor heterogeneity. Within this heterogeneity, T2-weighted signal hypointensity is known to correlate with increased cellularity and thus may represent a putative target for CED catheter placement in future clinical trials.

Screen printed Y and Bi-based superconductors

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Haertling, Gene H.; Hsi, Chi-Shiung

1992-01-01

High T(sub c) superconducting thick film was prepared by screen printing process. Y-based (YBa2Cu3O(7 - x)) superconducting thick films were printed on 211/Al2O3, SNT/Al2O3, and YSZ substrates. Because of poor adhesion of the superconducting thick films to 211/Al2O3 and SNT/Al2O3 substrates, relatively low T(sub c) and J(sub c) values were obtained from the films printed on these substrates. Critical temperatures of YBa2Cu3O(7 - x) thick films deposited on 211/Al2O3 and SNT/Al2O3 substrates were about 80 K. The critical current densities of these films were less than 2 A/cm(exp 2). Higher T(sub c) and J(sub c) films were printed on the YSZ substrates; T(sub c) = 86.4 K and J(sub c) = 50.4 A/cm(exp 2). Multiple lead samples were also prepared on the YSZ substrates. These showed lower T(sub c) and J(sub c) values than plain samples. The heat treatment conditions of the multiple lead samples are still under investigation. Bi-based superconductor thick films have been obtained so far. Improving the superconducting properties of the BSCCO screen printed thick films will be emphasized in future work.

The effect of partial substitution of roasted soybean seed with graded levels of sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas) leaf meal on growth performances and carcass characteristics of broiler chickens.

PubMed

Melesse, Aberra; Alemu, Temesgen; Banerjee, Sandip; Berihun, Kefyalew

2016-06-30

This study was designed to assess the effects of partial substitution of roasted soybean seed with sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas) leaf meal (SPLM) on growth performances and carcass components of broiler chickens. The experiment was a completely randomized design consisting of five dietary treatments replicated four times with ten chicks each. The control diet (treatment 1, T1) contained roasted soybean seed as the major protein source without SPLM and treatment diets containing SPLM at the levels of 30 g/kg (treatment 2, T2), 60 g/kg (treatment 3, T3), 90 g/kg (treatment 4, T4) and 120 g/kg (treatment 5, T5) by partially substituting the roasted soybean seed in the control diet. The results indicated that the body weight gain in chickens reared in T1 was (p<0.01) higher than those fed on T3, T4 and T5 diets. The individual feed intake in chickens reared in T1 was (p<0.001) higher than those fed on other treatment diets. The feed conversion ratio (kg feed/kg gain) of chickens fed on T1 was (p<0.05) lower than those reared in T4 and T5 diets. Chickens fed with T2 diet had numerically higher values of slaughter, dressed carcass and breast than those reared in T4 and T5 diets. It can be concluded that the partial substitution of roasted soybean seed with sweet potato leaf might be economically feasible feeding strategy of broiler chickens in smallholder poultry farm settings.

Comparing type 1 and type 2 diabetes in pregnancy- similar conditions or is a separate approach required?

PubMed

Owens, Lisa A; Sedar, Jon; Carmody, Louise; Dunne, Fidelma

2015-03-27

Pregnancy in women with type 1 (T1DM) or type 2 diabetes (T2DM) is associated with increased risk. These conditions are managed similarly during pregnancy, and compared directly in analyses, however they affect women of different age, body mass index and ethnicity. We assess if differences exist in pregnancy outcomes between T1DM and T2DM by comparing them directly and with matched controls. We also analyze the effect of glycemic control on pregnancy outcomes and analyze predictive variables for poor outcome. We include 323 women with diabetes and 660 glucose-tolerant controls. T2DM women had higher BMI, age and parity with a shorter duration of diabetes and better glycemic control. Preeclampsia occurred more in women with T1DM only. Rates of elective cesarean section were similar between groups but greater than in controls, emergency cesarean section was increased in women with type 1 diabetes. Maternal morbidity in T1DM was double that of matched controls but T2DM was similar to controls. Babies of mothers with diabetes were more likely to be delivered prematurely. Neonatal hypoglycemia occurred more in T1DM than T2DM and contributed to a higher rate of admission to neonatal intensive care for both groups. Adverse neonatal outcomes including stillbirths and congenital abnormalities were seen in both groups but were more common in T1DM pregnancies. HbA1C values at which these poor outcomes occurred differed between T1 and T2DM. Pregnancy outcomes in T1DM and T2DM are different and occur at different levels of glycemia. This should be considered when planning and managing pregnancy and when counseling women.

Rational mutagenesis by engineering disulphide bonds improves Kluyveromyces lactis beta-galactosidase for high-temperature industrial applications

PubMed Central

Rico-Díaz, Agustín; Álvarez-Cao, María-Efigenia; Escuder-Rodríguez, Juan-José; González-Siso, María-Isabel; Cerdán, M. Esperanza; Becerra, Manuel

2017-01-01

Kluyveromyces lactis β-galactosidase (Kl-β-Gal) is one of the most important enzymes in the dairy industry. The poor stability of this enzyme limits its use in the synthesis of galactooligosaccharides (GOS) and other applications requiring high operational temperature. To obtain thermoresistant variants, a rational mutagenesis strategy by introducing disulphide bonds in the interface between the enzyme subunits was used. Two improved mutants, R116C/T270C and R116C/T270C/G818C, had increased half-lives at 45 °C compared to Kl-β-Gal (2.2 and 6.8 fold increases, respectively). Likewise, Tm values of R116C/T270C and R116C/T270C/G818C were 2.4 and 8.5 °C, respectively, higher than Kl-β-Gal Tm. Enrichment in enzymatically active oligomeric forms in these mutant variants also increased their catalytic efficiency, due to the reinforcement of the interface contacts. In this way, using an artificial substrate (p-nitrophenyl-β-D-galactopyranoside), the Vmax values of the mutants were ~1.4 (R116C/T270C) and 2 (R116C/T270C/G818C) fold higher than that of native Kl-β-Gal. Using the natural substrate (lactose) the Vmax for R116C/T270C/G818C almost doubled the Vmax for Kl-β-Gal. Validation of these mutant variants of the enzyme for their use in applications that depend on prolonged incubations at high temperatures was achieved at the laboratory scale by monitoring their catalytic activity in GOS synthesis. PMID:28361909

Rational mutagenesis by engineering disulphide bonds improves Kluyveromyces lactis beta-galactosidase for high-temperature industrial applications.

PubMed

Rico-Díaz, Agustín; Álvarez-Cao, María-Efigenia; Escuder-Rodríguez, Juan-José; González-Siso, María-Isabel; Cerdán, M Esperanza; Becerra, Manuel

2017-03-31

Kluyveromyces lactis β-galactosidase (Kl-β-Gal) is one of the most important enzymes in the dairy industry. The poor stability of this enzyme limits its use in the synthesis of galactooligosaccharides (GOS) and other applications requiring high operational temperature. To obtain thermoresistant variants, a rational mutagenesis strategy by introducing disulphide bonds in the interface between the enzyme subunits was used. Two improved mutants, R116C/T270C and R116C/T270C/G818C, had increased half-lives at 45 °C compared to Kl-β-Gal (2.2 and 6.8 fold increases, respectively). Likewise, Tm values of R116C/T270C and R116C/T270C/G818C were 2.4 and 8.5 °C, respectively, higher than Kl-β-Gal Tm. Enrichment in enzymatically active oligomeric forms in these mutant variants also increased their catalytic efficiency, due to the reinforcement of the interface contacts. In this way, using an artificial substrate (p-nitrophenyl-β-D-galactopyranoside), the Vmax values of the mutants were ~1.4 (R116C/T270C) and 2 (R116C/T270C/G818C) fold higher than that of native Kl-β-Gal. Using the natural substrate (lactose) the Vmax for R116C/T270C/G818C almost doubled the Vmax for Kl-β-Gal. Validation of these mutant variants of the enzyme for their use in applications that depend on prolonged incubations at high temperatures was achieved at the laboratory scale by monitoring their catalytic activity in GOS synthesis.

The Development of High Power Materials with Enhanced Vibrational Velocity and Related Origin Investigation

DTIC Science & Technology

2003-06-01

T), as T is known to be proportional to vo2 27. From a practical perspective, the maximum vibrational velocity can be defined as the vo which...commercial “hard” and “soft” PZTs, which had been annealed and then “freshly” poled. In addition, results are shown in this figure for PZT-PSM-Yb and... 400 to ~1000, for 10<t򓊰 minutes. The long time values of Qm for PZT-PSM and PZT-PSM-Yb were even higher, approaching 1600 at t=2800 minutes

Overweight, obesity and features of metabolic syndrome in children with diabetes treated with insulin pump therapy.

PubMed

Łuczyński, Włodzimierz; Szypowska, Agnieszka; Głowińska-Olszewska, Barbara; Bossowski, Artur

2011-07-01

There has been no specific evaluation of atherogenic risk factors in children with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) treated with continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII). We, therefore, studied the prevalence of overweight/obesity and metabolic syndrome among these patients. Five hundred children with T1DM treated with CSII and multiple daily insulin (MDI) regimen were included in the study. Anthropometric data/physical examination, data concerning diabetes, and a lipid profile were assessed in this group, and compared with respect to treatment method (CSII vs. MDI). Almost one-third (30.2%) of the children were overweight/obese. The body mass index (BMI) values at the time of the present evaluation were significantly higher in comparison with the BMI values 3-6 months after the diagnosis. Dyslipidemia was recognized in 51.6%, hypertension in 4.8%, and the metabolic syndrome in 3.2%. of the subjects. The overweight/obese children differed from their normal-weight counterparts with respect to metabolic control, the incidence of hypertension, dyslipidemia, and metabolic syndrome. The girls showed higher prevalence of overweight/obesity and higher BMI values compared to the boys. The children treated with CSII had the same prevalence of overweight/obesity, but a lower incidence of dyslipidemia, and a better metabolic control compared to the children treated with MDI regimen. Our study shows a high prevalence of overweight/obesity and dyslipidemia in children with T1DM including those treated with an insulin pump.

F2 layer characteristics and electrojet strength over an equatorial station

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Adebesin, B. O.; Adeniyi, J. O.; Adimula, I. A.; Reinisch, B. W.; Yumoto, K.

2013-09-01

The data presented in this work describes the diurnal and seasonal variation in hmF2, NmF2, and the electrojet current strength over an African equatorial station during a period of low solar activity. The F2 region horizontal magnetic element H revealed that the Solar quiet Sq(H) daily variation rises from early morning period to maximum around local noon and falls to lower values towards evening. The F2 ionospheric current responsible for the magnetic field variations is inferred to build up at the early morning hours, attaining maximum strength around 1200 LT. The Sq variation across the entire months was higher during the daytime than nighttime. This is ascribed to the variability of the ionospheric parameters like conductivity and winds structure in this region. Seasonal daytime electrojet (EEJ) current strength for June solstice, March and September equinoxes, respectively had peak values ranging within 27-35 nT (at 1400 LT) , 30-40 nT (at 1200 LT) and 35-45 nT (at 1500 LT). The different peak periods of the EEJ strength were attributed to the combined effects of the peak electron density and electric field. Lastly, the EEJ strength was observed to be higher during the equinoxes than the solstice period.

Thyroid hormone concentrations differ between donkeys and horses.

PubMed

Mendoza, F J; Perez-Ecija, R A; Toribio, R E; Estepa, J C

2013-03-01

Reference intervals for thyroid hormones (TH) concentrations have not been previously established for donkeys, leading to potential misdiagnosis of thyroid disease. To determine the normal values of TH in healthy adult donkeys and compare them to TH values from healthy adult horses. Thirty-eight healthy Andalusian donkeys and 19 healthy Andalusian horses from 2 different farms were used. Donkeys were divided into 3 age groups: <5, 5-10 and >11 years and into 2 gender groups. Serum concentrations of fT3, tT3, rT3, fT4 and tT4 were quantified by radioimmunoassay. All blood samples were collected the same day in the morning. None of the animals had received any treatment for 30 days prior to sampling or had any history of disease. Both farms were in close proximity and under similar management. Differences between groups were determined using a one-way ANOVA analysis followed by Fisher's LSD test. P<0.05 was considered significant. Serum TH concentrations were higher in donkeys than in horses (P<0.01). Donkeys <5 years had higher serum rT3, fT4 and tT4 concentrations than donkeys >5 years (P<0.05). Furthermore, older donkeys (>11 years) had lower serum fT3 and tT3 concentrations than younger donkeys' groups (<5 and 5-10 years, P<0.05). TH concentrations were not different between genders (fT3: P = 0.06; tT3: P = 0.08; rT3: P = 0.15; fT4: P = 0.89; and tT4: P = 0.19). Thyroid hormone concentrations are different between healthy adult donkeys and horses. Establishing species-specific TH reference ranges is important when evaluating clinicopathologic data in equids in order to avoid the misdiagnosis of thyroid gland dysfunction. Further studies to elucidate the physiological mechanisms leading to these differences are warranted. © 2012 EVJ Ltd.

Quantitative evaluation of ischemic myocardial scar tissue by unenhanced T1 mapping using 3.0 Tesla MR scanner

PubMed Central

Okur, Aylin; Kantarcı, Mecit; Kızrak, Yeşim; Yıldız, Sema; Pirimoğlu, Berhan; Karaca, Leyla; Oğul, Hayri; Sevimli, Serdar

2014-01-01

PURPOSE We aimed to use a noninvasive method for quantifying T1 values of chronic myocardial infarction scar by cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and determine its diagnostic performance. MATERIALS AND METHODS We performed cardiac MRI on 29 consecutive patients with known coronary artery disease (CAD) on 3.0 Tesla MRI scanner. An unenhanced T1 mapping technique was used to calculate T1 relaxation time of myocardial scar tissue, and its diagnostic performance was evaluated. Chronic scar tissue was identified by delayed contrast-enhancement (DE) MRI and T2-weighted images. Sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy values were calculated for T1 mapping using DE images as the gold standard. RESULTS Four hundred and forty-two segments were analyzed in 26 patients. While myocardial chronic scar was demonstrated in 45 segments on DE images, T1 mapping MRI showed a chronic scar area in 54 segments. T1 relaxation time was higher in chronic scar tissue, compared with remote areas (1314±98 ms vs. 1099±90 ms, P < 0.001). Therefore, increased T1 values were shown in areas of myocardium colocalized with areas of DE and normal signal on T2-weighted images. There was a significant correlation between T1 mapping and DE images in evaluation of myocardial wall injury extent (P < 0.05). We calculated sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy as 95.5%, 97%, and 96%, respectively. CONCLUSION The results of the present study reveal that T1 mapping MRI combined with T2-weighted images might be a feasible imaging modality for detecting chronic myocardial infarction scar tissue. PMID:25010366

Association between Triglyceride to HDL-C Ratio (TG/HDL-C) and Insulin Resistance in Chinese Patients with Newly Diagnosed Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus.

PubMed

Ren, Xingxing; Chen, Zeng Ai; Zheng, Shuang; Han, Tingting; Li, Yangxue; Liu, Wei; Hu, Yaomin

2016-01-01

To explore the association between the triglyceride to HDL-C ratio (TG/HDL-C) and insulin resistance in Chinese patients with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes mellitus. Patients with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes mellitus (272 men and 288 women) were enrolled and divided into three groups according to TG/HDL-C tertiles. Insulin resistance was defined by homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR). Demographic information and clinical characteristics were obtained. Spearman's correlation was used to estimate the association between TG/HDL-C and other variables. Multiple logistic regression analyses were adopted to obtain probabilities of insulin resistance. A receiver operating characteristic analysis was conducted to evaluate the ability of TG/HDL-C to discriminate insulin resistance. TG/HDL-C was associated with insulin resistance in Chinese patients with newly diagnosed T2DM (Spearman's correlation coefficient = 0.21, P < 0.01). Patients in the higher tertiles of TG/HDL-C had significantly higher HOMA-IR values than patients in the lower tertiles [T1: 2.68(1.74-3.70); T2: 2.96(2.29-4.56); T3: 3.09(2.30-4.99)]. Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that TG/HDL-C was significantly associated with HOMA-IR, and patients in the higher TG/HDL-C tertile had a higher OR than those in the lower TG/HDL-C tertile, after adjusting for multiple covariates including indices for central obesity [T1: 1; T2: 4.02(1.86-8.71); T3: 4.30(1.99-9.29)]. Following stratification of waist circumference into quartiles, the effect of TG/HDL-C on insulin resistance remained significant irrespective of waist circumference. TG/HDL-C was associated with insulin resistance independent of waist circumference. Whether it could be a surrogate marker for insulin resistance in Chinese patients with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes mellitus still needs to be confirmed by more researches.

Lipid Extracted Microalgal Biomass Residue as a Fertilizer Substitute for Zea mays L.

PubMed Central

Maurya, Rahulkumar; Chokshi, Kaumeel; Ghosh, Tonmoy; Trivedi, Khanjan; Pancha, Imran; Kubavat, Denish; Mishra, Sandhya; Ghosh, Arup

2016-01-01

High volumes of lipid extracted microalgal biomass residues (LMBRs) are expected to be produced upon commencement of biodiesel production on a large scale, thus necessitating its value addition for sustainable development. LMBRs of Chlorella variabilis and Lyngbya majuscula were employed to substitute the nitrogen content of recommended rate of fertilizer (RRF) for Zea mays L. The pot experiment comprised of 10 treatments, i.e., T1 (No fertilizer); T2 (RRF-120 N: 60 P2O5: 40 K2O kg ha−1); T3 to T6—100, 75, 50, and 25% N through LMBR of the Chlorella sp., respectively; T7 to T10—100, 75, 50, and 25% N through LMBR of Lyngbya sp., respectively. It was found that all LMBR substitution treatments were at par to RRF with respect to grain yield production. T10 gave the highest grain yield (65.16 g plant−1), which was closely followed by that (63.48 g plant−1) under T5. T10 also recorded the highest phosphorus and potassium contents in grains. T4 was markedly superior over control in terms of dry matter accumulation (DMA) as well as carbohydrate content, which was ascribed to higher pigment content and photosynthetic activity in leaves. Even though considerably lower DMA was obtained in Lyngbya treatments, which might have been due to the presence of some toxic factors, no reduction in grain yield was apparent. The length of the tassel was significantly higher in either of the LMBRs at any substitution rates over RRF, except T6 and T7. The ascorbate peroxidase activity decreased with decreasing dose of Chlorella LMBR, while all the Lyngbya LMBR treatments recorded lower activity, which were at par with each other. Among the Chlorella treatments, only T5 recorded significantly higher values of glutathione reductase activity over RRF, while the rest were at par. There were significant increases in carbohydrate and crude fat, respectively, only in T4 and T3 over RRF, while no change was observed in crude protein due to LMBR treatments. Apparently, there was no detrimental effect on soil properties, suggesting that both the LMBRs can be employed to reduce the usage of chemical fertilizers, thus promoting maize crop production in a sustainable manner. PMID:26834768

Lipid Extracted Microalgal Biomass Residue as a Fertilizer Substitute for Zea mays L.

PubMed

Maurya, Rahulkumar; Chokshi, Kaumeel; Ghosh, Tonmoy; Trivedi, Khanjan; Pancha, Imran; Kubavat, Denish; Mishra, Sandhya; Ghosh, Arup

2015-01-01

High volumes of lipid extracted microalgal biomass residues (LMBRs) are expected to be produced upon commencement of biodiesel production on a large scale, thus necessitating its value addition for sustainable development. LMBRs of Chlorella variabilis and Lyngbya majuscula were employed to substitute the nitrogen content of recommended rate of fertilizer (RRF) for Zea mays L. The pot experiment comprised of 10 treatments, i.e., T1 (No fertilizer); T2 (RRF-120 N: 60 P2O5: 40 K2O kg ha(-1)); T3 to T6-100, 75, 50, and 25% N through LMBR of the Chlorella sp., respectively; T7 to T10-100, 75, 50, and 25% N through LMBR of Lyngbya sp., respectively. It was found that all LMBR substitution treatments were at par to RRF with respect to grain yield production. T10 gave the highest grain yield (65.16 g plant(-1)), which was closely followed by that (63.48 g plant(-1)) under T5. T10 also recorded the highest phosphorus and potassium contents in grains. T4 was markedly superior over control in terms of dry matter accumulation (DMA) as well as carbohydrate content, which was ascribed to higher pigment content and photosynthetic activity in leaves. Even though considerably lower DMA was obtained in Lyngbya treatments, which might have been due to the presence of some toxic factors, no reduction in grain yield was apparent. The length of the tassel was significantly higher in either of the LMBRs at any substitution rates over RRF, except T6 and T7. The ascorbate peroxidase activity decreased with decreasing dose of Chlorella LMBR, while all the Lyngbya LMBR treatments recorded lower activity, which were at par with each other. Among the Chlorella treatments, only T5 recorded significantly higher values of glutathione reductase activity over RRF, while the rest were at par. There were significant increases in carbohydrate and crude fat, respectively, only in T4 and T3 over RRF, while no change was observed in crude protein due to LMBR treatments. Apparently, there was no detrimental effect on soil properties, suggesting that both the LMBRs can be employed to reduce the usage of chemical fertilizers, thus promoting maize crop production in a sustainable manner.

Effects of Black Pepper (Piper Nigrum), Turmeric Powder (Curcuma Longa) and Coriander Seeds (Coriandrum Sativum) and Their Combinations as Feed Additives on Growth Performance, Carcass Traits, Some Blood Parameters and Humoral Immune Response of Broiler Chickens

PubMed Central

Abou-Elkhair, R.; Ahmed, H. A.; Selim, S.

2014-01-01

Different herbs and spices have been used as feed additives for various purposes in poultry production. This study was conducted to assess the effect of feed supplemented with black pepper (Piper nigrum), turmeric powder (Curcuma longa), coriander seeds (Coriandrum sativum) and their combinations on the performance of broilers. A total of 210 (Cobb) one-d-old chicks were divided into seven groups of 30 birds each. The treatments were: a control group received no supplement, 0.5% black pepper (T1), 0.5% turmeric powder (T2), 2% coriander seeds (T3), a mixture of 0.5% black pepper and 0.5% turmeric powder (T4), a mixture of 0.5% black pepper and 2% coriander seed (T5), and a mixture of 0.5% black pepper, 0.5% turmeric powder and 2% coriander seeds (T6). Higher significant values of body weight gain during the whole period of 5 weeks (p<0.001) were observed in broilers on T1, T3, T5, and T6 compared to control. Dietary supplements with T1, T2, T3, and T6 improved the cumulative G:F of broilers during the whole period of 5 weeks (p<0.001) compared with control. The dressing percentage and edible giblets were not influenced by dietary supplements, while higher values of relative weight of the liver (p<0.05) were obtained in T5 and T6 compared to control. The addition of feed supplements in T5 and T6 significantly increased serum total protein and decreased serum glucose, triglycerides and alkaline phosphatase concentrations compared with the control group (p<0.05). Broilers on T6 showed significant decrease in the serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase concentration (p<0.05) compared to control. The broilers having T5 and T6 supplemented feed had relatively greater antibody titre (p<0.001) at 35 d of age than control. It is concluded that dietary supplements with black pepper or coriander seeds or their combinations enhanced the performance and health status of broiler chickens. PMID:25050023

Effects of black pepper (piper nigrum), turmeric powder (curcuma longa) and coriander seeds (coriandrum sativum) and their combinations as feed additives on growth performance, carcass traits, some blood parameters and humoral immune response of broiler chickens.

PubMed

Abou-Elkhair, R; Ahmed, H A; Selim, S

2014-06-01

Different herbs and spices have been used as feed additives for various purposes in poultry production. This study was conducted to assess the effect of feed supplemented with black pepper (Piper nigrum), turmeric powder (Curcuma longa), coriander seeds (Coriandrum sativum) and their combinations on the performance of broilers. A total of 210 (Cobb) one-d-old chicks were divided into seven groups of 30 birds each. The treatments were: a control group received no supplement, 0.5% black pepper (T1), 0.5% turmeric powder (T2), 2% coriander seeds (T3), a mixture of 0.5% black pepper and 0.5% turmeric powder (T4), a mixture of 0.5% black pepper and 2% coriander seed (T5), and a mixture of 0.5% black pepper, 0.5% turmeric powder and 2% coriander seeds (T6). Higher significant values of body weight gain during the whole period of 5 weeks (p<0.001) were observed in broilers on T1, T3, T5, and T6 compared to control. Dietary supplements with T1, T2, T3, and T6 improved the cumulative G:F of broilers during the whole period of 5 weeks (p<0.001) compared with control. The dressing percentage and edible giblets were not influenced by dietary supplements, while higher values of relative weight of the liver (p<0.05) were obtained in T5 and T6 compared to control. The addition of feed supplements in T5 and T6 significantly increased serum total protein and decreased serum glucose, triglycerides and alkaline phosphatase concentrations compared with the control group (p<0.05). Broilers on T6 showed significant decrease in the serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase concentration (p<0.05) compared to control. The broilers having T5 and T6 supplemented feed had relatively greater antibody titre (p<0.001) at 35 d of age than control. It is concluded that dietary supplements with black pepper or coriander seeds or their combinations enhanced the performance and health status of broiler chickens.

Job Demands, Burnout, and Teamwork in Healthcare Professionals Working in a General Hospital that Was Analysed At Two Points in Time.

PubMed

Mijakoski, Dragan; Karadzhinska-Bislimovska, Jovanka; Stoleski, Sasho; Minov, Jordan; Atanasovska, Aneta; Bihorac, Elida

2018-04-15

The purpose of the paper was to assess job demands, burnout, and teamwork in healthcare professionals (HPs) working in a general hospital that was analysed at two points in time with a time lag of three years. Time 1 respondents (N = 325) were HPs who participated during the first wave of data collection (2011). Time 2 respondents (N = 197) were HPs from the same hospital who responded at Time 2 (2014). Job demands, burnout, and teamwork were measured with Hospital Experience Scale, Maslach Burnout Inventory, and Hospital Survey on Patient Safety Culture, respectively. Significantly higher scores of emotional exhaustion (21.03 vs. 15.37, t = 5.1, p < 0.001), depersonalization (4.48 vs. 2.75, t = 3.8, p < 0.001), as well as organizational (2.51 vs. 2.34, t = 2.38, p = 0.017), emotional (2.46 vs. 2.25, t = 3.68, p < 0.001), and cognitive (2.82 vs. 2.64, t = 2.68, p = 0.008) job demands were found at Time 2. Teamwork levels were similar at both points in time (Time 1 = 3.84 vs. Time 2 = 3.84, t = 0.043, p = 0.97). Actual longitudinal study revealed significantly higher mean values of emotional exhaustion and depersonalization in 2014 that could be explained by significantly increased job demands between analysed points in time.

Effect of Pre-cooking Conditions on the Quality Characteristics of Ready-To-Eat Samgyetang

PubMed Central

2015-01-01

The aim of this study was to examine the effectiveness of pre-cooking conditions on the quality characteristics of ready-to-eat (RTE) Samgyetang. Raw chickens were steamed under the different conditions of 50℃/30 min (T1), 65℃/30 min (T2), 85℃/30 min (T3), and 90℃/10 min (T4) prior to retorting at 120℃ for 65 min. The results showed that pre-cooking conditions in all treated samples could reduce fat contents in breast and leg meats by 8.5-11.7% and 10.0-11.0% compared to the control, even though there were no significant differences among treatments (p>0.05). The L* and b* values of breast and leg meats treated with the higher temperature and longer time conditions were significantly higher than the control (p<0.05), while a* values tended to decrease despite of not to a significant extent (p>0.05). Moreover, apparent viscosity and water soluble protein showed insignificant differences (p>0.05) among the samples as a result of the retorting process, which might have more negative influences on the quality. T2 samples obtained significantly the highest average Quantitative Descriptive Analysis (QDA) score and transmittance value, representing the most clear broth among the samples, compared to the control. On the other hand, T3 showed the highest cooking loss among the treatments and the lowest QDA scores among the samples. In conclusion, pre-cooking treatment prior to retorting in manufacturing Samgyetang is a plausible way to reduce its fat content. A pre-cooking condition at either 65℃ for 30 min, or 90℃ for 10 min are recommended for producing Samgyetang with optimum quality. PMID:26761871

Physical and hormonal profile of male sexual development in epilepsy.

PubMed

El-Khayat, Hamed A; Shatla, Hamed M; Ali, Gihan K H; Abdulgani, Mohammad O; Tomoum, Hoda Y; Attya, Hussein A

2003-03-01

This study was designed to investigate the effect of epilepsy and antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) on both the physical and hormonal aspects of the sexual development of male patients with epilepsy. One hundred thirty male subjects with epilepsy, their age ranging between 8 and 18 years (mean, 14 +/- 2.9 years), entered the study; all were taking AEDs. Anthropometric measurements [height, weight, and body mass index (BMI)], testicular volume, penile length, and pubarche were assessed in the studied groups, as well as measurement of the levels of testosterone (T), free testosterone (FT), estradiol (E2), lutenizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and prolactin (PRL), and the results were compared with those of a control group. In this study, male patients older than 16 years were significantly shorter than their matched controls. The mean values of testicular volume and penile length were significantly lower in the patients in the different age subgroups, and the pubic hair staging (pubarche) was delayed in the patients older than 16 years. The mean values of total testosterone, estradiol, LH, and FSH serum levels were significantly higher, whereas the mean values of free testosterone, total-T/E2, total. T/LH, and FT/E2 ratios were lower in the patient subgroups compared with their age-matched controls. There were no significant changes in the mean basal PRL serum levels in the patients compared with the controls. The present study demonstrated a reduction in the testicular volume and penile length, significantly lower mean values of free testosterone and total-T/E2, and a higher mean value of E2 in the patients receiving polytherapy in the age subgroup older than 16 years compared with those on monotherapy; however, there was no demonstrable effect of seizure control or the duration of illness in any of the studied parameters. There is a delay in the sexual development of male patients with epilepsy in the different age subgroups, with endocrine changes in the form of increase in the total testosterone, but the free testosterone is lower, and an increase in estradiol, with lower T/LH levels. Patients receiving polytherapy, especially those older than 16 years, were more likely to have delayed gonadarch and disturbances in their hormonal profile.

Effect of low incubation temperature and low ambient temperature until 21 days of age on performance and body temperature in fast-growing chickens.

PubMed

Nyuiadzi, D; Travel, A; Méda, B; Berri, C; Guilloteau, L A; Coustham, V; Wang, Y; Tona, J K; Collin, A

2017-12-01

Thermal manipulation during embryogenesis was previously reported to decrease the occurrence of ascites and to potentially improve cold tolerance of broilers. The objective of our study was to explore the effects of the interaction of cold incubation temperatures and cool ambient temperatures until 21 d of age on performance and body temperature. Ross 308 eggs were incubated either under control conditions I0 (37.6°C) or with cyclic cold stimulations I1 (6 h/d at 36.6°C from d 10 to 18 of incubation) or with 2 cold stimulations I2 (30 min at 15°C) at d 18 and 19 of incubation. These treatments were followed by individual rearing and postnatal exposure to either standard rearing temperature T0 (from 33°C at hatching to 21°C at d 21) or continuously lower temperature T2 (from 28°C at hatching to 21°C at d 21) or exposure to cyclically lower temperature T1 (with circadian temperature oscillations). Treatments I1 and I2 did not significantly alter hatchability compared to control incubation (with 94.8, 95.1, and 92.3%, respectively), or hatching BW and overall chick quality. Hatching body temperature (Tb) was 0.5 and 0.3°C higher in I1 than in I0 and I2 groups, respectively (P = 0.007). A doubled occurrence of health problems was observed with T2 condition, regardless of incubation or sex. At d 3, BW was 2% lower with treatment I1 than with I0 and I2 and was 3% higher in T1 and T2 groups than in T0, but these effects disappeared with age. Group T2 presented a 5% higher feed intake than the control group T0 between 3 and 21 d of age (P = 0.025). Feed conversion ratio (FCR) was affected by experimental conditions (P < 0.001), with low FCR values obtained with I2 incubation in control or cyclically cold postnatal conditions. Maximal FCR values were observed in the continuously cold postnatal conditions, in males submitted to control incubation and in females submitted to I1 incubation, revealing sex-dependent effects of the treatments on performance. © The Author 2017. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of Poultry Science Association.

In-vitro Assessment of Knee MRI in the Presence of Metal Implants Comparing MAVRIC-SL and Conventional FSE Sequences at 1.5 and 3 Tesla Field Strength

PubMed Central

Liebl, Hans; Heilmeier, Ursula; Lee, Sonia; Nardo, Lorenzo; Patsch, Janina; Schuppert, Christopher; Han, Misung; Rondak, Ina-Christine; Banerjee, Suchandrima; Koch, Kevin; Link, Thomas M.; Krug, Roland

2014-01-01

PURPOSE To assess lesion detection and artifact size reduction of a MAVRIC-SEMAC hybrid sequence (MAVRIC-SL) compared to standard sequences at 1.5T and 3T in porcine knee specimens with metal hardware. METHODS Artificial cartilage and bone lesions of defined size were created in the proximity of titanium and steel screws with 2.5 mm diameter in 12 porcine knee specimens and were imaged at 1.5T and 3T MRI with MAVRIC-SL PD and STIR, standard FSE T2 PD and STIR and fat-saturated T2 FSE sequences. Three radiologists blinded to the lesion locations assessed lesion detection rates on randomized images for each sequence using ROC. Artifact length and width were measured. RESULTS Metal artifact sizes were largest in the presence of steel screws at 3T (FSE T2 FS: 28.7cm2) and 1.5T (16.03cm2). MAVRIC-SL PD and STIR reduced artifact sizes at both 3T (1.43cm2; 2.46cm2) and 1.5T (1.16cm2; 1.59cm2) compared to FS T2 FSE sequences (27.57cm2; 13.20cm2). At 3T, ROC derived AUC values using MAVRIC-SL sequences were significantly higher compared to standard sequences (MAVRIC-PD: 0.87, versus FSE-T2-FS: 0.73 (p=0.025); MAVRIC- STIR: 0.9 versus T2-STIR: 0.78 (p=0.001) and versus FSE-T2-FS: 0.73 (p=0.026)). Similar values were observed at 1.5T. Comparison of 3T and 1.5T showed no significant differences (MAVRIC-SL PD: p=0.382; MAVRIC-SL STIR: p=0.071. CONCLUSION MAVRIC-SL sequences provided superior lesion detection and reduced metal artifact size at both 1.5T and 3T compared to conventionally used FSE sequences. No significant disadvantage was found comparing MAVRIC-SL at 3T and 1.5T, though metal artifacts at 3T were larger. PMID:24912802

Relationship between the starting age of training and physical fitness in old age.

PubMed

Aoyagi, Y; Katsuta, S

1990-03-01

The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that older persons can minimize the reduction in physical fitness with aging if they start training before approximately 50 years of age, beyond which strength decline has been reported to become more pronounced. Maximal values for isometric strength, dynamic strength and speed of movement of the biceps brachii and quadriceps muscles, back-lift strength, and predicted oxygen uptake (VO2max = VO2max) were measured in 39 male subjects who were 60-68 years old. Four groups were studied: T26, T45, T56, and untrained. The T26 group had been training (jogging 10 km.day-1, 5 days.wk-1 at 10 km.h-1) since before their mid-thirties (mean 26 years), the T45 group since their forties (mean 45 years), the T56 group since their fifties (mean 56 years), and the untrained group had never taken part in any systematic training. Collectively, the T26 and T45 groups had significantly (p less than 0.05) higher values for muscle strength, speed of contraction, and VO2max than the T56 and/or untrained group(s). However, no differences were observed between the T26 and T45 groups. The results support a relation between the starting age of training and the age-dependent decline of physical fitness. Thus, the hypothesis is accepted.

Diagnostic value of (99m)Tc-3PRGD2 scintimammography for differentiation of malignant from benign breast lesions: Comparison of visual and semi-quantitative analysis.

PubMed

Chen, Qianqian; Xie, Qian; Zhao, Min; Chen, Bin; Gao, Shi; Zhang, Haishan; Xing, Hua; Ma, Qingjie

2015-01-01

To compare the diagnostic value of visual and semi-quantitative analysis of technetium-99m-poly-ethylene glycol, 4-arginine-glycine-aspartic acid ((99m)Tc-3PRGD2) scintimammography (SMG) for better differentiation of benign from malignant breast masses, and also investigate the incremental role of semi-quantitative index of SMG. A total of 72 patients with breast lesions were included in the study. Technetium-99m-3PRGD2 SMG was performed with single photon emission computed tomography (SPET) at 60 min after intravenous injection of 749 ± 86MBq of the radiotracer. Images were evaluated by visual interpretation and semi-quantitative indices of tumor to non-tumor (T/N) ratios, which were compared with pathology results. Receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve analyses were performed to determine the optimal visual grade, to calculate cut-off values of semi-quantitative indices, and to compare visual and semi-quantitative diagnostic values. Among the 72 patients, 89 lesions were confirmed by histopathology after fine needle aspiration biopsy or surgery, 48 malignant and 41 benign lesions. The mean T/N ratio of (99m)Tc-3PRGD2 SMG in malignant lesions was significantly higher than that in benign lesions (P<0.05). When grade 2 of the disease was used as cut-off value for the detection of primary breast cancer, the sensitivity, specificity and accuracy were 81.3%, 70.7%, and 76.4%, respectively. When a T/N ratio of 2.01 was used as cut-off value, the sensitivity, specificity and accuracy were 79.2%, 75.6%, and 77.5%, respectively. According to ROC analysis, the area under the curve for semi-quantitative analysis was higher than that for visual analysis, but the statistical difference was not significant (P=0.372). Compared with visual analysis or semi-quantitative analysis alone, the sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of visual analysis combined with semi-quantitative analysis in diagnosing primary breast cancer were higher, being: 87.5%, 82.9%, and 85.4%, respectively. The area under the curve was 0.891. Results of the present study suggest that the semi-quantitative and visual analysis statistically showed similar results. The semi-quantitative analysis provided incremental value additive to visual analysis of (99m)Tc-3PRGD2 SMG for the detection of breast cancer. It seems from our results that, when the tumor was located in the medial part of the breast, the semi-quantitative analysis gave better diagnostic results.

Comparison of preoperative tramadol and pethidine on postoperative pain in cats undergoing ovariohysterectomy.

PubMed

Evangelista, Marina C; Silva, Rodrigo A; Cardozo, Larissa B; Kahvegian, Marcia A P; Rossetto, Thais C; Matera, Julia M; Fantoni, Denise T

2014-10-15

A variety of analgesic agents are available, and which one can be used in dogs and cats is a highly controversial issue, existing however a fear in the use of opiates due to possible adverse effects that these drugs can cause. The aim of this study was to compare the analgesic effect provided by the administration of tramadol or pethidine on early postoperative pain of cats undergoing ovariohysterectomy in a double-blind prospective study. Fourty-two animals were randomly assigned into three groups. Pet received pethidine (6 mg/kg), Tra 2 received tramadol (2 mg/kg) and Tra 4 received tramadol (4 mg/kg); all intramuscularly and associated with acepromazine (0.1 mg/kg). The efficacy of each analgesic regimen was evaluated prior to surgery (baseline - TBL), during surgery and 1, 3 and 6 hours after extubation with subjective pain scale, physiologic parameters, serum concentrations of glucose, cortisol and IL-6. Changes in cardiovascular system were not clinically relevant. There were no significant differences in pain scores (P > 0.05) during the study, although the number of rescue analgesia was significantly higher (P < 0.05) at Pet group (5/14) than Tra 4 group (0/14), whereas in Tra 2, two animals (2/14) required additional analgesia. The serum cortisol values of Pet group were significantly higher at T1h T3h (P < 0.05) and T6h (P < 0.01) when compared to baseline (induction), also it was noticed a significant difference among the groups at T6h (Pet values were higher than Tra 2 and Tra 4; P < 0.05). Tramadol provided adequate analgesia and it was more effective than pethidine to at least six hours for the studied animals. At the higher dose (4 mg/kg) tramadol is probably more effective, since rescue analgesia was not necessary. No significant changes were observed physiological parameter that could contraindicate the use of these opioid in described doses, for the feline species.

Textural content in 3T MR: an image-based marker for Alzheimer's disease

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bharath Kumar, S. V.; Mullick, Rakesh; Patil, Uday

2005-04-01

In this paper, we propose a study, which investigates the first-order and second-order distributions of T2 images from a magnetic resonance (MR) scan for an age-matched data set of 24 Alzheimer's disease and 17 normal patients. The study is motivated by the desire to analyze the brain iron uptake in the hippocampus of Alzheimer's patients, which is captured by low T2 values. Since, excess iron deposition occurs locally in certain regions of the brain, we are motivated to investigate the spatial distribution of T2, which is captured by higher-order statistics. Based on the first-order and second-order distributions (involving gray level co-occurrence matrix) of T2, we show that the second-order statistics provide features with sensitivity >90% (at 80% specificity), which in turn capture the textural content in T2 data. Hence, we argue that different texture characteristics of T2 in the hippocampus for Alzheimer's and normal patients could be used as an early indicator of Alzheimer's disease.

Early versus late GD-DTPA MRI enhancement in experimental glioblastomas.

PubMed

Farace, Paolo; Tambalo, Stefano; Fiorini, Silvia; Merigo, Flavia; Daducci, Alessandro; Nicolato, Elena; Conti, Giamaica; Degrassi, Anna; Sbarbati, Andrea; Marzola, Pasquina

2011-03-01

To compare early versus late enhancement in two glioblastoma models characterized by different infiltrative/edematous patterns. Three weeks after inoculation into nude mice of U87MG and U251 cells, T1-weighted images were acquired early (10.5 min), intermediate (21 min) and late (30.5 min) after a bolus injection of Gd-DTPA at 300 μ mol/kg dosage. EARLY(TH) and LATE(TH) were the corresponding volumes with an enhancement higher than a threshold TH, defined by the mean (μ) and standard deviation (σ) on a contralateral healthy area. ADD(TH) was the enhancing volume found in LATE(TH) but not in EARLY(TH). T2 imaging of both tumors was performed, and T2 mapping of U251. In all tumors, LATE(TH) was significantly higher than EARLY(TH) for TH ranging from μ+σ to μ+5σ. The ADD(TH) /EARLY(TH) ratio was not significantly different when U251 and U87MG tumors were compared. In the U87MG tumors, some enhancement was observed outside the regularly demarcated T2-hyperintense area. In the U251 tumors, irregularly T2 demarcated, a large portion of ADD(μ+3σ) had normal T2 values. At histology, U251 showed a higher infiltrative pattern than U87MG. In these models, the increase over time in the enhancing volume did not depend on the different infiltrative/edematous patterns and was not closely related with edema. Copyright © 2011 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Effect of rocuronium on the bispectral index under anesthesia and tracheal intubation.

PubMed

Yue, Hui; Han, Jinyu; Liu, Ling; Wang, Kaiyuan; Li, Jincheng

2016-12-01

The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of various doses of rocuronium on bispectral index (BIS) responses to propofol induction and tracheal intubation, as well as the role of the non-depolarization muscle relaxant rocuronium on the depth of sedation. A total of 72 patients (American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status I-II) were anaesthetized with propofol using a target-controlled infusion, and randomly divided into two sedation level groups (n=36). The patients were divided into 2 groups according to the BIS value: A normal sedation group (group 1), with a stable BIS value at 40-60, and a deep sedation group (group 2), with a BIS value <20 or with burst suppression. Each group was randomly divided into 4 subgroups A-D (n=9) according to the various doses of rocuronium (0.3, 0.6, 0.9 and 1.2 mg/kg). Tracheal intubation was performed after 2 min of rocuronium administration. BIS, electromyography (EMG), heart rate (HR) and mean arterial pressure (MAP) were recorded continuously and averaged over 1 min during baseline (T1), steady state (T2), 2 min after rocuronium infusion (T3), and 0, 2 and 5 min after tracheal intubation. The results demonstrated that HR and MAP decreased significantly at T2 and T3 compared with T1. Following tracheal intubation (L0), HR and MAP significantly increased compared with T2 and T3, and returned to levels similar to those prior to intubation after 5 min. In group 1C and 1D, BIS was significantly decreased at T3 compared with T2; BIS was significantly increased at L0 compared with T3 in group 1A and 1B. EMG at earlier stages of anesthesia was significantly higher compared with other points, and was significantly increased at L0 compared with T3 in group 1A and 1B. These results demonstrated that BIS response may be associated with the dosage of rocuronium in the normal sedation group, although no association was observed with the deep sedation group. Tracheal intubation resulted in marked hemodynamic changes under both normal and deep sedation.

Three-dimensional anisotropy contrast periodically rotated overlapping parallel lines with enhanced reconstruction (3DAC PROPELLER) on a 3.0T system: a new modality for routine clinical neuroimaging.

PubMed

Nakada, Tsutomu; Matsuzawa, Hitoshi; Fujii, Yukihiko; Takahashi, Hitoshi; Nishizawa, Masatoyo; Kwee, Ingrid L

2006-07-01

Clinical magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has recently entered the "high-field" era, and systems equipped with 3.0-4.0T superconductive magnets are becoming the gold standard for diagnostic imaging. While higher signal-to-noise ratio (S/N) is a definite advantage of higher field systems, higher susceptibility effect remains to be a significant trade-off. To take advantage of a higher field system in performing routine clinical images of higher anatomical resolution, we implemented a vector contrast image technique to 3.0T imaging, three-dimensional anisotropy contrast (3DAC), with a PROPELLER (Periodically Rotated Overlapping Parallel Lines with Enhanced Reconstruction) sequence, a method capable of effectively eliminating undesired artifacts on rapid diffusion imaging sequences. One hundred subjects (20 normal volunteers and 80 volunteers with various central nervous system diseases) participated in the study. Anisotropic diffusion-weighted PROPELLER images were obtained on a General Electric (Waukesha, WI, USA) Signa 3.0T for each axis, with b-value of 1100 sec/mm(2). Subsequently, 3DAC images were constructed using in-house software written on MATLAB (MathWorks, Natick, MA, USA). The vector contrast allows for providing exquisite anatomical detail illustrated by clear identification of all major tracts through the entire brain. 3DAC images provide better anatomical resolution for brainstem glioma than higher-resolution T2 reversed images. Degenerative processes of disease-specific tracts were clearly identified as illustrated in cases of multiple system atrophy and Joseph-Machado disease. Anatomical images of significantly higher resolution than the best current standard, T2 reversed images, were successfully obtained. As a technique readily applicable under routine clinical setting, 3DAC PROPELLER on a 3.0T system will be a powerful addition to diagnostic imaging.

[Effects of application of pulse contour cardiac output monitoring technology in early treatment of patients with large area burns].

PubMed

Wang, D Y; Xie, W G; Xi, M M; Li, Z; Wang, B

2018-01-20

Objective: To analyze the changes and relationship of early hemodynamic indexes of patients with large area burns monitored by pulse contour cardiac output (PiCCO) monitoring technology, so as to assess the guiding value of this technology in the treatment of patients with large area burns during shock period. Methods: Eighteen patients with large area burns, confirming to the study criteria, were admitted to our unit from May 2016 to May 2017. Pulse contour cardiac output index (PCCI), systemic vascular resistance index (SVRI), global end-diastolic volume index (GEDVI), and extravascular lung water index (EVLWI) of patients were monitored by PiCCO instrument from admission to post injury day (PID) 7, and they were calibrated and recorded once every four hours. The fluid infusion coefficients of patients at the first and second 24 hours post injury were calculated. The blood lactic acid values of patients from PID 1 to 7 were also recorded. The correlations among PCCI, SVRI, and GEDVI as well as the correlation between SVRI and blood lactic acid of these 18 patients were analyzed. Prognosis of patients were recorded. Data were processed with one-way analysis of variance, single sample t test and Bonferroni correction, Pearson correlation analysis, and Spearman rank correlation analysis. Results: (1) There was statistically significant difference in PCCI value of patients from post injury hour (PIH) 4 to 168 ( F =7.428, P <0.01). The PCCI values of patients at PIH 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, and 24 were (2.4±0.9), (2.6±1.2), (2.2±0.6), (2.6±0.7), (2.8±0.6), and (2.7±0.7) L·min(-1)·m(-2,) respectively, and they were significantly lower than the normal value 4 L·min(-1)·m(-2)( t =-3.143, -3.251, -11.511, -8.889, -6.735, -6.976, P <0.05 or P <0.01). At PIH 76, 80, 84, 88, 92, and 96, the PCCI values of patients were (4.9±1.5), (5.7±2.0), (5.9±1.7), (5.5±1.3), (5.3±1.1), and (4.9±1.4) L·min(-1)·m(-2,) respectively, and they were significantly higher than the normal value ( t =2.277, 3.142, 4.050, 4.111, 4.128, 2.423, P <0.05 or P <0.01). The PCCI values of patients at other time points were close to normal value ( P >0.05). (2) There was statistically significant difference in SVRI value of patients from PIH 4 to 168 ( F =7.863, P <0.01). The SVRI values of patients at PIH 12, 16, 20, 24, and 28 were (2 298±747), (2 581±498), (2 705±780), (2 773±669), and (3 109±1 215) dyn·s·cm(-5)·m(2,) respectively, and they were significantly higher than the normal value 2 050 dyn·s·cm(-5)·m(2)( t =0.878, 3.370, 2.519, 3.747, 3.144, P <0.05 or P <0.01). At PIH 4, 8, 72, 76, 80, 84, 88, 92, and 96, the SVRI values of patients were (1 632±129), (2 012±896), (1 381±503), (1 180±378), (1 259±400), (1 376±483), (1 329±385), (1 410±370), and (1 346±346) dyn·s·cm(-5)·m(2,) respectively, and they were significantly lower than the normal value ( t =-4.593, -0.112, -5.157, -8.905, -7.914, -5.226, -6.756, -6.233, -7.038, P <0.01). The SVRI values of patients at other time points were close to normal value ( P >0.05). (3) There was no statistically significant difference in the GEDVI values of patients from PIH 4 to 168 ( F =0.704, P >0.05). The GEDVI values of patients at PIH 8, 12, 16, 20, and 24 were significantly lower than normal value ( t =-3.112, -3.554, -2.969, -2.450, -2.476, P <0.05). The GEDVI values of patients at other time points were close to normal value ( P >0.05). (4) There was statistically significant difference in EVLWI value of patients from PIH 4 to 168 ( F =1.859, P <0.01). The EVLWI values of patients at PIH 16, 20, 24, 28, 32, 36, and 40 were significantly higher than normal value ( t =4.386, 3.335, 6.363, 4.391, 7.513, 5.392, 5.642, P <0.01). The EVLWI values of patients at other time points were close to normal value ( P >0.05). (5) The fluid infusion coefficients of patients at the first and second 24 hours post injury were 1.90 and 1.39, respectively. The blood lactic acid values of patients from PID 1 to 7 were 7.99, 5.21, 4.57, 4.26, 2.54, 3.13, and 3.20 mmol/L, respectively, showing a declined tendency. (6) There was obvious negative correlation between PCCI and SVRI ( r =-0.528, P <0.01). There was obvious positive correlation between GEDVI and PCCI ( r =0.577, P <0.01). There was no obvious correlation between GEDVI and SVRI ( r =0.081, P >0.05). There was obvious positive correlation between blood lactic acid and SVRI ( r =0.878, P <0.01). (7) All patients were cured except the one who abandoned treatment. Conclusions: PiCCO monitoring technology can monitor the changes of early hemodynamic indexes and volume of burn patients dynamically, continuously, and conveniently, and provide valuable reference for early-stage comprehensive treatment like anti-shock of patients with large area burns.

Serum bile acid concentrations in dairy cattle with hepatic lipidosis.

PubMed

Garry, F B; Fettman, M J; Curtis, C R; Smith, J A

1994-01-01

This study was designed to evaluate serum bile acid measurements as indicatory, of liver function and/or hepatic fat infiltration in dairy cattle. Serum bile acid concentrations were measured in healthy dairy cattle at different stages of lactation after fasting or feeding. Bile acid concentrations were compared with liver fat content and sulfobromophthalein (BSP) half-life (T 1/2). Serum bile acid concentrations were higher in cows in early lactation and with higher daily milk production. Compared with prefasting values, bile acid concentrations were decreased at 8, 14, and 24 hours of fasting. Blood samples from fed cows at 1- to 2-hour intervals had wide and inconsistent variations in bile acid concentration. Because serum bile acids correlated well with BSP T 1/2, it is suggested that both measurements evaluate a similar aspect of liver function. Neither bile acids nor BSP T 1/2 correlated with differences in liver fat content among cows. Because of large variability in serum bile acid concentrations in fed cows and the lack of correlation of measured values with liver fat content, bile acid determinations do not appear useful for showing changes in hepatic function in fed cows with subclinical hepatic lipidosis nor serve as a screening test for this condition.

Correlation study between facet joint cartilage and intervertebral discs in early lumbar vertebral degeneration using T2, T2* and T1ρ mapping

PubMed Central

Zhang, Yi; Hu, Jianzhong; Duan, Chunyue; Hu, Ping; Lu, Hongbin; Peng, Xianjing

2017-01-01

Recent advancements in magnetic resonance imaging have allowed for the early detection of biochemical changes in intervertebral discs and articular cartilage. Here, we assessed the feasibility of axial T2, T2* and T1ρ mapping of the lumbar facet joints (LFJs) to determine correlations between cartilage and intervertebral discs (IVDs) in early lumbar vertebral degeneration. We recruited 22 volunteers and examined 202 LFJs and 101 IVDs with morphological (sagittal and axial FSE T2-weighted imaging) and axial biochemical (T2, T2* and T1ρ mapping) sequences using a 3.0T MRI scanner. IVDs were graded using the Pfirrmann system. Mapping values of LFJs were recorded according to the degeneration grades of IVDs at the same level. The feasibility of T2, T2* and T1ρ in IVDs and LFJs were analyzed by comparing these mapping values across subjects with different rates of degeneration using Kruskal-Wallis tests. A Pearson’s correlation analysis was used to compare T2, T2* and T1ρ values of discs and LFJs. We found excellent reproducibility in the T2, T2* and T1ρ values for the nucleus pulposus (NP), anterior and posterior annulus fibrosus (PAF), and LFJ cartilage (intraclass correlation coefficients 0.806–0.955). T2, T2* and T1ρ mapping (all P<0.01) had good Pfirrmann grade performances in the NP with IVD degeneration. LFJ T2* values were significantly different between grades I and IV (PL = 0.032, PR = 0.026), as were T1ρ values between grades II and III (PL = 0.002, PR = 0.006) and grades III and IV (PL = 0.006, PR = 0.001). Correlations were moderately negative for T1ρ values between LFJ cartilage and NP (rL = −0.574, rR = −0.551), and between LFJ cartilage and PAF (rL = −0.551, rR = −0.499). T1ρ values of LFJ cartilage was weakly correlated with T2 (r = 0.007) and T2* (r = −0.158) values. Overall, we show that axial T1ρ effectively assesses early LFJ cartilage degeneration. Using T1ρ analysis, we propose a link between LFJ degeneration and IVD NP or PAF changes. PMID:28570641

Implications for the Daily Variation and the Low Value of Thermal Inertia at Arabia Terra on Mars

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Toyota, T.; Saruya, T.; Kurita, K.

2010-12-01

Active nature of the Martian surface is considered to be responsible for various styles of the atmosphere-surface interaction. Here, we propose an idea to interpret the daily variation and the low value of thermal inertia at Arabia Terra on Mars. Thermal inertia calculated with the surface temperature obtained by remote sensing exhibits daily variation and seasonal variation. Putzig and Mellon [1] suggested that horizontal or vertical heterogeneity may yield apparent thermal inertia which varies with time of day and season. However, their interpretation couldn’t completely explain the extent and the phase of the temporal variation of thermal inertia at Arabia Terra. We would like to propose another possibility to explain the characteristics of the thermal inertia at Arabia Terra. In addition, the value of thermal inertia is extremely low at Arabia Terra. Daytime thermal inertia at Arabia Terra is as low as 20 tiu [1,2], which is lower than the value of thermal inertia of 1 micron dust aggregates ( 61 tiu [3]). To explain these characteristics of Arabia Terra, we proposed an idea that condensation and sublimation of water ice at the granular surface cause the daily variation and the low value of the thermal inertia at Arabia Terra. At nighttime, water vapor condenses at the surface. Immediately after sunrise, water ice at the surface sublimates. Electric force and sublimating gas pressure could affect the porosity of the surface. We suppose that the daily variation of the thermal inertia is caused by presence of deposition/removal of water ice and the low value of the thermal inertia is caused by the higher value of the bulk porosity than random close packing. To substantiate the above model, there remain four main questions to be answered. 1) Is there sufficient water vapor at the atmosphere above Arabia Terra?, 2) Does the sufficient amount of water condense at the surface during the night?, 3) Can water vapor and other factors make the surface porosity higher? and 4) How much does the higher value of the porosity make the bulk thermal inertia lower? We investigated previous studies for question 1) and performed a numerical simulation for the sublimation/condensation of water ice for question 2). We also performed laboratory experiments to investigate question 3) and 4). We obtained results which showed 1) There are sufficient water vapor at the atmosphere above Arabia Terra, 2) It is difficult for the sufficient amount of water vapor to condense at the surface during the night in our numerical model with limited parameters, 3) Condensation/sublimation of water ice and other mechanical effects could affect the bulk porosity at the surface, and 4) The high value of the porosity make the bulk thermal inertia lower by factor of two. References [1] N. E. Putzig and M. T. Mellon, Icarus 191, 68 (2007). [2] T. Saruya, T. Toyota, D. Baratoux, and K. Kurita, 41th LPSC, 1306 (2010) [3] M. T. Mellon, R. L. Fergason, and N. E. Putzig, The Martian Surface, Cambridge University Press. (2008). [4] M. A. Presley1 and R. A. Craddock, Jour. Geophys. Res. 111, E09013 (2006).

Horizontal Heat Impact of Urban Structures on the Surface Soil Layer and Its Diurnal Patterns under Different Micrometeorological Conditions

PubMed Central

Zhou, Hongxuan; Hu, Dan; Wang, Xiaolin; Han, Fengsen; Li, Yuanzheng; Wu, Xiaogang; Ma, Shengli

2016-01-01

The temperature of the surface soil layer around different orientation walls was investigated horizontally along several construction-soil micro-gradients in Beijing, China. On a diurnal scale, similar fluctuating trends in T0 and T50 (temperature of surface soil layer, 0 and 0.5 m from the building baseline) adjacent to the external walls of buildings with the same orientation usually appeared under similar micrometeorological conditions. The difference between T0 and T50 (ΔT0–50) can be considered an indicator of the intensity of the horizontal heat effects: higher ΔT0–50 values correspond to greater intensities. The values of ΔT0–50 for south-, north-, east- and west-facing sides of buildings were highest on sunny days in summer and exhibited values of 6.61 K, 1.64 K, 5.93 K and 2.76 K, respectively. The scope of horizontal heat impacts (Sh) changed on a diurnal scale between zero and the maximum, which fluctuated with the micrometeorological conditions. The maximum values of Sh were 0.30, 0.15, 0.20 and 0.20 m for south-, north-, east-, and west-facing walls. The ΔT0–50 was related to solar radiation, horizontal heat flux, relative humidity, wind speed, soil moisture differences and air temperature; the relative importance of these factors was 36.22%, 31.80%, 19.19%, 2.67%, 3.68% and 6.44%, respectively. PMID:26728627

Fitness voter model: Damped oscillations and anomalous consensus.

PubMed

Woolcock, Anthony; Connaughton, Colm; Merali, Yasmin; Vazquez, Federico

2017-09-01

We study the dynamics of opinion formation in a heterogeneous voter model on a complete graph, in which each agent is endowed with an integer fitness parameter k≥0, in addition to its + or - opinion state. The evolution of the distribution of k-values and the opinion dynamics are coupled together, so as to allow the system to dynamically develop heterogeneity and memory in a simple way. When two agents with different opinions interact, their k-values are compared, and with probability p the agent with the lower value adopts the opinion of the one with the higher value, while with probability 1-p the opposite happens. The agent that keeps its opinion (winning agent) increments its k-value by one. We study the dynamics of the system in the entire 0≤p≤1 range and compare with the case p=1/2, in which opinions are decoupled from the k-values and the dynamics is equivalent to that of the standard voter model. When 0≤p<1/2, agents with higher k-values are less persuasive, and the system approaches exponentially fast to the consensus state of the initial majority opinion. The mean consensus time τ appears to grow logarithmically with the number of agents N, and it is greatly decreased relative to the linear behavior τ∼N found in the standard voter model. When 1/2

Repeatability of magnetic resonance fingerprinting T1 and T2 estimates assessed using the ISMRM/NIST MRI system phantom.

PubMed

Jiang, Yun; Ma, Dan; Keenan, Kathryn E; Stupic, Karl F; Gulani, Vikas; Griswold, Mark A

2017-10-01

The purpose of this study was to evaluate accuracy and repeatability of T 1 and T 2 estimates of a MR fingerprinting (MRF) method using the ISMRM/NIST MRI system phantom. The ISMRM/NIST MRI system phantom contains multiple compartments with standardized T 1 , T 2 , and proton density values. Conventional inversion-recovery spin echo and spin echo methods were used to characterize the T 1 and T 2 values in the phantom. The phantom was scanned using the MRF-FISP method over 34 consecutive days. The mean T 1 and T 2 values were compared with the values from the spin echo methods. The repeatability was characterized as the coefficient of variation of the measurements over 34 days. T 1 and T 2 values from MRF-FISP over 34 days showed a strong linear correlation with the measurements from the spin echo methods (R 2  = 0.999 for T 1 ; R 2  = 0.996 for T 2 ). The MRF estimates over the wide ranges of T 1 and T 2 values have less than 5% variation, except for the shortest T 2 relaxation times where the method still maintains less than 8% variation. MRF measurements of T 1 and T 2 are highly repeatable over time and across wide ranges of T 1 and T 2 values. Magn Reson Med 78:1452-1457, 2017. © 2016 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine. © 2016 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.

Increased Frequency of CD4+ CD25+ FoxP3+ T Regulatory Cells in Pulmonary Tuberculosis Patients Undergoing Specific Treatment and Its Relationship with Their Immune-Endocrine Profile

PubMed Central

Díaz, Ariana; Santucci, Natalia; Bongiovanni, Bettina; D'Attilio, Luciano; Massoni, Claudia; Lioi, Susana; Radcliffe, Stella; Dídoli, Griselda; Bottasso, Oscar; Bay, María Luisa

2015-01-01

Tuberculosis (TB) is a major health problem requiring an appropriate cell immune response (IR) to be controlled. Since regulatory T cells (Tregs) are relevant in IR regulation, we analyzed Tregs variations throughout the course of TB treatment and its relationship with changes in immune-endocrine mediators dealing with disease immunopathology. The cohort was composed of 41 adult patients, 20 of them completing treatment and follow-up. Patients were bled at diagnosis (T0) and at 2 (T2), 4 (T4), 6 (T6), and 9 months following treatment initiation. Twenty-four age- and sex-matched healthy controls (HCo) were also included. Tregs (flow cytometry) from TB patients were increased at T0 (versus HCo P < 0.05), showing even higher values at T2 (versus T0 P < 0.01) and T4 (versus T0 P < 0.001). While IL-6, IFN-γ, TGF-β (ELISA), and Cortisol (electrochemiluminescence, EQ) were augmented, DHEA-S (EQ) levels were diminished at T0 with respect to HCo, with cytokines and Cortisol returning to normal values at T9. Tregs correlated positively with IFN-γ (R = 0.868, P < 0.05) at T2 and negatively at T4 (R = −0.795, P < 0.05). Lowered levels of proinflammatory cytokines together with an increased frequency of Tregs of patients undergoing specific treatment might reflect a downmodulatory effect of these cells on the accompanying inflammation. PMID:25969837

[Effects of functional training combined with self-made hand flexing training band in treatment of scar contracture after burn injury of dorsal hand].

PubMed

Zhu, C; Yi, N; Shi, M N; Liang, Y Y; Zhou, Y B; Dang, R; Qi, Z S; Zhao, H Y

2017-07-20

Objective: To observe the effects of functional training combined with self-made hand flexing training band in treatment of scar contracture after burn injury of dorsal hand. Methods: Forty-six patients with scar contracture after deep partial-thickness or full-thickness burn injury of dorsal hand hospitalized in our department from March 2013 to February 2015 were divided into routine training group (RT, n =18) and comprehensive training group (CT, n =28) according to their willingness. Two weeks after the wounds were healed, patients in group RT were treated with functional training of hands and self-made pressure gloves, while patients in group CT were treated with self-made hand flexing training band (consisting of nylon strap, flexing band, and velcro) on the basis of those in group RT. All patients were treated for 3 months. Before and after treatment, scar condition of affected hands was assessed with Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS). The range of motion of joints of affected hands was measured by Total Active Movement (TAM) Scale. The function of affected hands was evaluated by Carroll Upper Extremity Function Test. Data were processed with t test, chi-square test, and Mann-Whitney U test. Results: (1) The score of VSS in patients of group RT was (10.0±1.9) points before treatment and (4.4±1.4) points after treatment, with the improved score of (5.6±1.0) points. The score of VSS in patients of group CT was (10.5±1.8) points before treatment and (4.6±1.4) points after treatment, with the improved score of (5.9±1.2) points. There was no statistically significant difference in the improved score of patients between the two groups ( t =0.834, P >0.05). The score of VSS in patients of groups RT and CT after treatment was significantly lower than that before treatment (with t values respectively 14.014 and 10.003, P values below 0.01). (2) Before treatment, the ratios of excellent and good results according to TAM were 2/9 in patients of group RT and 3/14 in group CT, with no statistical differences between them ( χ (2)=2.140, P >0.05). After treatment, the ratio of excellent and good results according to TAM in patients of group CT (6/7) was higher than that in group RT (5/9, χ (2)=0.023, P =0.038). The ratios of excellent and good results according to TAM in patients of groups RT and CT after treatment were significantly higher than those before treatment (with Z values respectively -2.023 and -4.780, P values below 0.05). (3) The improved score of hand function in patients of group CT was (26±12) points, which was higher than (15±7) points in group RT ( t =3.278, P =0.002). The score of hand function in patients of groups RT and CT after treatment was significantly higher than that before treatment (with t values respectively 2.628 and 6.125, P values below 0.05). There were no significant differences in grades of hand function of patients between the two groups before treatment ( Z =-0.286, P >0.05). After treatment, the grade of hand function in patients of group CT was higher than that in group RT( Z =-1.993, P =0.046). The grades of hand function in patients of groups RT and CT after treatment were significantly higher than those before treatment (with Z values respectively -2.717 and -4.998, P values below 0.01). Conclusions: For patients with scar contracture after burn injury of dorsal hand, early functional training combined with hand flexing training band can improve the range of motion of hand joints and functional recovery of hand, and the result was better than functional training alone.

The (in)famous GWAS P-value threshold revisited and updated for low-frequency variants.

PubMed

Fadista, João; Manning, Alisa K; Florez, Jose C; Groop, Leif

2016-08-01

Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have long relied on proposed statistical significance thresholds to be able to differentiate true positives from false positives. Although the genome-wide significance P-value threshold of 5 × 10(-8) has become a standard for common-variant GWAS, it has not been updated to cope with the lower allele frequency spectrum used in many recent array-based GWAS studies and sequencing studies. Using a whole-genome- and -exome-sequencing data set of 2875 individuals of European ancestry from the Genetics of Type 2 Diabetes (GoT2D) project and a whole-exome-sequencing data set of 13 000 individuals from five ancestries from the GoT2D and T2D-GENES (Type 2 Diabetes Genetic Exploration by Next-generation sequencing in multi-Ethnic Samples) projects, we describe guidelines for genome- and exome-wide association P-value thresholds needed to correct for multiple testing, explaining the impact of linkage disequilibrium thresholds for distinguishing independent variants, minor allele frequency and ancestry characteristics. We emphasize the advantage of studying recent genetic isolate populations when performing rare and low-frequency genetic association analyses, as the multiple testing burden is diminished due to higher genetic homogeneity.

Quantitative T2 combined with texture analysis of nuclear magnetic resonance images identify different degrees of muscle involvement in three mouse models of muscle dystrophy: mdx, Largemyd and mdx/Largemyd.

PubMed

Martins-Bach, Aurea B; Malheiros, Jackeline; Matot, Béatrice; Martins, Poliana C M; Almeida, Camila F; Caldeira, Waldir; Ribeiro, Alberto F; Loureiro de Sousa, Paulo; Azzabou, Noura; Tannús, Alberto; Carlier, Pierre G; Vainzof, Mariz

2015-01-01

Quantitative nuclear magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has been considered a promising non-invasive tool for monitoring therapeutic essays in small size mouse models of muscular dystrophies. Here, we combined MRI (anatomical images and transverse relaxation time constant-T2-measurements) to texture analyses in the study of four mouse strains covering a wide range of dystrophic phenotypes. Two still unexplored mouse models of muscular dystrophies were analyzed: The severely affected Largemyd mouse and the recently generated and worst double mutant mdx/Largemyd mouse, as compared to the mildly affected mdx and normal mice. The results were compared to histopathological findings. MRI showed increased intermuscular fat and higher muscle T2 in the three dystrophic mouse models when compared to the wild-type mice (T2: mdx/Largemyd: 37.6±2.8 ms; mdx: 35.2±4.5 ms; Largemyd: 36.6±4.0 ms; wild-type: 29.1±1.8 ms, p<0.05), in addition to higher muscle T2 in the mdx/Largemyd mice when compared to mdx (p<0.05). The areas with increased muscle T2 in the MRI correlated spatially with the identified histopathological alterations such as necrosis, inflammation, degeneration and regeneration foci. Nevertheless, muscle T2 values were not correlated with the severity of the phenotype in the 3 dystrophic mouse strains, since the severely affected Largemyd showed similar values than both the mild mdx and worst mdx/Largemyd lineages. On the other hand, all studied mouse strains could be unambiguously identified with texture analysis, which reflected the observed differences in the distribution of signals in muscle MRI. Thus, combined T2 intensity maps and texture analysis is a powerful approach for the characterization and differentiation of dystrophic muscles with diverse genotypes and phenotypes. These new findings provide important noninvasive tools in the evaluation of the efficacy of new therapies, and most importantly, can be directly applied in human translational research.

Quantitative T2 Combined with Texture Analysis of Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Images Identify Different Degrees of Muscle Involvement in Three Mouse Models of Muscle Dystrophy: mdx, Largemyd and mdx/Largemyd

PubMed Central

Martins-Bach, Aurea B.; Malheiros, Jackeline; Matot, Béatrice; Martins, Poliana C. M.; Almeida, Camila F.; Caldeira, Waldir; Ribeiro, Alberto F.; Loureiro de Sousa, Paulo; Azzabou, Noura; Tannús, Alberto; Carlier, Pierre G.; Vainzof, Mariz

2015-01-01

Quantitative nuclear magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has been considered a promising non-invasive tool for monitoring therapeutic essays in small size mouse models of muscular dystrophies. Here, we combined MRI (anatomical images and transverse relaxation time constant—T2—measurements) to texture analyses in the study of four mouse strains covering a wide range of dystrophic phenotypes. Two still unexplored mouse models of muscular dystrophies were analyzed: The severely affected Largemyd mouse and the recently generated and worst double mutant mdx/Largemyd mouse, as compared to the mildly affected mdx and normal mice. The results were compared to histopathological findings. MRI showed increased intermuscular fat and higher muscle T2 in the three dystrophic mouse models when compared to the wild-type mice (T2: mdx/Largemyd: 37.6±2.8 ms; mdx: 35.2±4.5 ms; Largemyd: 36.6±4.0 ms; wild-type: 29.1±1.8 ms, p<0.05), in addition to higher muscle T2 in the mdx/Largemyd mice when compared to mdx (p<0.05). The areas with increased muscle T2 in the MRI correlated spatially with the identified histopathological alterations such as necrosis, inflammation, degeneration and regeneration foci. Nevertheless, muscle T2 values were not correlated with the severity of the phenotype in the 3 dystrophic mouse strains, since the severely affected Largemyd showed similar values than both the mild mdx and worst mdx/Largemyd lineages. On the other hand, all studied mouse strains could be unambiguously identified with texture analysis, which reflected the observed differences in the distribution of signals in muscle MRI. Thus, combined T2 intensity maps and texture analysis is a powerful approach for the characterization and differentiation of dystrophic muscles with diverse genotypes and phenotypes. These new findings provide important noninvasive tools in the evaluation of the efficacy of new therapies, and most importantly, can be directly applied in human translational research. PMID:25710816

IDH mutation is paradoxically associated with higher 18F-FDOPA PET uptake in diffuse grade II and grade III gliomas.

PubMed

Verger, A; Metellus, Ph; Sala, Q; Colin, C; Bialecki, E; Taieb, D; Chinot, O; Figarella-Branger, D; Guedj, E

2017-08-01

The World Health Organization Classification of Tumors of the Central Nervous System has recently been updated by the integration of diagnostic and prognostic molecular parameters, giving pivotal attention to IDH mutation as a favourable factor. Amino acid PET is increasingly used in the management of gliomas, but its prognostic value is a matter of debate. The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between IDH mutation and 18 F-FDOPA uptake on PET in newly diagnosed gliomas. A total of 43 patients, presenting with diffuse astrocytic and oligodendroglial grade II and III gliomas, reclassified according to the 2016 WHO classification of tumours of the CNS, were retrospectively included. They had all undergone 18 F-FDOPA PET at an initial stage before surgery and histological diagnosis. 18 F-FDOPA uptake values were compared between patients with and without IDH mutation in terms of maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax) ratios between tumour and normal contralateral brain (T/N), and between tumour and striatum (T/S). Patients with IDH mutation showed higher 18 F-FDOPA T/N SUVmax ratios (1.6 vs. 1.2) and T/S SUVmax ratios (0.9 vs. 0.6) than patients without IDH mutation (p < 0.05). This study showed paradoxically higher 18 F-FDOPA uptake in diffuse grade II and III gliomas with IDH mutation. Despite evident interest in the management of gliomas, and especially in relation to posttherapy evaluation, our findings raise the question of the prognostic value of 18 F-FDOPA uptake on PET uptake in this group of patients. This may be related to differences in amino acid integration, metabolism, or cell differentiation.

K(S)0 and Λ production in Pb-Pb collisions at √(s(NN))=2.76 TeV.

PubMed

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Petráček, V; Petran, M; Petris, M; Petrov, P; Petrovici, M; Petta, C; Piano, S; Pikna, M; Pillot, P; Pinazza, O; Pinsky, L; Pitz, N; Piyarathna, D B; Planinic, M; Płoskoń, M; Pluta, J; Pochybova, S; Podesta-Lerma, P L M; Poghosyan, M G; Polichtchouk, B; Pop, A; Porteboeuf-Houssais, S; Pospíšil, V; Potukuchi, B; Prasad, S K; Preghenella, R; Prino, F; Pruneau, C A; Pshenichnov, I; Puddu, G; Punin, V; Putschke, J; Qvigstad, H; Rachevski, A; Rademakers, A; Rak, J; Rakotozafindrabe, A; Ramello, L; Raniwala, S; Raniwala, R; Räsänen, S S; Rascanu, B T; Rathee, D; Rauch, W; Rauf, A W; Razazi, V; Read, K F; Real, J S; Redlich, K; Reed, R J; Rehman, A; Reichelt, P; Reicher, M; Reidt, F; Renfordt, R; Reolon, A R; Reshetin, A; Rettig, F; Revol, J-P; Reygers, K; Riccati, L; Ricci, R A; Richert, T; Richter, M; Riedler, P; Riegler, W; Riggi, F; Rivetti, A; Rodríguez Cahuantzi, M; Rodriguez Manso, A; Røed, K; Rogochaya, E; Rohni, S; Rohr, D; Röhrich, D; Romita, R; Ronchetti, F; Rosnet, P; Rossegger, S; Rossi, A; Roy, P; Roy, C; Rubio Montero, A J; Rui, R; Russo, R; Ryabinkin, E; Rybicki, A; Sadovsky, S; Safařík, K; Sahoo, R; Sahu, P K; Saini, J; Sakaguchi, H; Sakai, S; Sakata, D; Salgado, C A; Salzwedel, J; Sambyal, S; Samsonov, V; Sanchez Castro, X; Sándor, L; Sandoval, A; Sano, M; Santagati, G; Santoro, R; Sarkar, D; Scapparone, E; Scarlassara, F; Scharenberg, R P; Schiaua, C; Schicker, R; Schmidt, C; Schmidt, H R; Schuchmann, S; Schukraft, J; Schulc, M; Schuster, T; Schutz, Y; Schwarz, K; Schweda, K; Scioli, G; Scomparin, E; Scott, R; Scott, P A; Segato, G; Selyuzhenkov, I; Seo, J; Serci, S; Serradilla, E; Sevcenco, A; Shabetai, A; Shabratova, G; Shahoyan, R; Sharma, S; Sharma, N; Shigaki, K; Shtejer, K; Sibiriak, Y; Siddhanta, S; Siemiarczuk, T; Silvermyr, D; Silvestre, C; Simatovic, G; Singaraju, R; Singh, R; Singha, S; Singhal, V; Sinha, B C; Sinha, T; Sitar, B; Sitta, M; Skaali, T B; Skjerdal, K; Smakal, R; Smirnov, N; Snellings, R J M; Soltz, R; Song, M; Song, J; Soos, C; Soramel, F; Spacek, M; Sputowska, I; Spyropoulou-Stassinaki, M; Srivastava, B K; Stachel, J; Stan, I; Stefanek, G; Steinpreis, M; Stenlund, E; Steyn, G; Stiller, J H; Stocco, D; Stolpovskiy, M; Strmen, P; Suaide, A A P; Subieta Vásquez, M A; Sugitate, T; Suire, C; Suleymanov, M; Sultanov, R; Sumbera, M; Susa, T; Symons, T J M; Szanto de Toledo, A; Szarka, I; Szczepankiewicz, A; Szymański, M; Takahashi, J; Tangaro, M A; Tapia Takaki, J D; Tarantola Peloni, A; Tarazona Martinez, A; Tauro, A; Tejeda Muñoz, G; Telesca, A; Terrevoli, C; Ter Minasyan, A; Thäder, J; Thomas, D; Tieulent, R; Timmins, A R; Toia, A; Torii, H; Trubnikov, V; Trzaska, W H; Tsuji, T; Tumkin, A; Turrisi, R; Tveter, T S; Ulery, J; Ullaland, K; Ulrich, J; Uras, A; Urciuoli, G M; Usai, G L; Vajzer, M; Vala, M; Valencia Palomo, L; Vande Vyvre, P; Vannucci, L; Van Hoorne, J W; van Leeuwen, M; Vargas, A; Varma, R; Vasileiou, M; Vasiliev, A; Vechernin, V; Veldhoen, M; Venaruzzo, M; Vercellin, E; Vergara, S; Vernet, R; Verweij, M; Vickovic, L; Viesti, G; Viinikainen, J; Vilakazi, Z; Villalobos Baillie, O; Vinogradov, A; Vinogradov, L; Vinogradov, Y; Virgili, T; Viyogi, Y P; Vodopyanov, A; Völkl, M A; Voloshin, S; Voloshin, K; Volpe, G; von Haller, B; Vorobyev, I; Vranic, D; Vrláková, J; Vulpescu, B; Vyushin, A; Wagner, B; Wagner, V; Wagner, J; Wang, Y; Wang, Y; Wang, M; Watanabe, D; Watanabe, K; Weber, M; Wessels, J P; Westerhoff, U; Wiechula, J; Wikne, J; Wilde, M; Wilk, G; Wilkinson, J; Williams, M C S; Windelband, B; Winn, M; Xiang, C; Yaldo, C G; Yamaguchi, Y; Yang, H; Yang, P; Yang, S; Yano, S; Yasnopolskiy, S; Yi, J; Yin, Z; Yoo, I-K; Yushmanov, I; Zaccolo, V; Zach, C; Zampolli, C; Zaporozhets, S; Zarochentsev, A; Závada, P; Zaviyalov, N; Zbroszczyk, H; Zelnicek, P; Zgura, I S; Zhalov, M; Zhang, F; Zhang, Y; Zhang, H; Zhang, X; Zhou, D; Zhou, Y; Zhou, F; Zhu, X; Zhu, J; Zhu, J; Zhu, H; Zichichi, A; Zimmermann, M B; Zimmermann, A; Zinovjev, G; Zoccarato, Y; Zynovyev, M; Zyzak, M

2013-11-27

The ALICE measurement of K(S)(0) and Λ production at midrapidity in Pb-Pb collisions at √(s(NN))=2.76 TeV is presented. The transverse momentum (p(T)) spectra are shown for several collision centrality intervals and in the p(T) range from 0.4 GeV/c (0.6 GeV/c for Λ) to 12 GeV/c. The p(T) dependence of the Λ/K(S)(0) ratios exhibits maxima in the vicinity of 3 GeV/c, and the positions of the maxima shift towards higher p(T) with increasing collision centrality. The magnitude of these maxima increases by almost a factor of three between most peripheral and most central Pb-Pb collisions. This baryon excess at intermediate p(T) is not observed in pp interactions at √s=0.9 TeV and at √s=7 TeV. Qualitatively, the baryon enhancement in heavy-ion collisions is expected from radial flow. However, the measured p(T) spectra above 2 GeV/c progressively decouple from hydrodynamical-model calculations. For higher values of p(T), models that incorporate the influence of the medium on the fragmentation and hadronization processes describe qualitatively the p(T) dependence of the Λ/K(S)(0) ratio.

Nanoparticle-encapsulated emodin decreases diabetic neuropathic pain probably via a mechanism involving P2X3 receptor in the dorsal root ganglia.

PubMed

Li, Lin; Sheng, Xuan; Zhao, Shanhong; Zou, Lifang; Han, Xinyao; Gong, Yingxin; Yuan, Huilong; Shi, Liran; Guo, Lili; Jia, Tianyu; Liu, Shuangmei; Wu, Bing; Yi, Zhihua; Liu, Hui; Gao, Yun; Li, Guilin; Li, Guodong; Zhang, Chunping; Xu, Hong; Liang, Shangdong

2017-12-01

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is the most common complication of diabetes mellitus (DM). More than 90% of all cases of DM belong to type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Emodin is the main active component of Radix et rhizoma rhei and has anti-bacterial, anti-viral, anti-ulcerogenic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer effects. Nanoparticle encapsulation of drugs is beneficial for drug targeting and bioavailability as well as for lowering drug toxicity side effects. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of nanoparticle-encapsulated emodin (nano emodin) on diabetic neuropathic pain (DNP) mediated by the Purin 2X3 (P2X3) receptor in the dorsal root ganglia (DRG). Mechanical withdrawal threshold (MWT) and thermal withdrawal latency (TWL) values in T2DM rats were lower than those of control rats. MWT and TWL in T2DM rats treated with nano emodin were higher compared with those in T2DM rats. Expression levels of P2X3 protein and messenger RNA (mRNA) in the DRG of T2DM rats were higher than those of controls, while levels in T2DM rats treated with nano emodin were significantly lower than those of the T2DM rats. Phosphorylation and activation of ERK1/2 in the T2DM DRG were decreased by nano emodin treatment. Nano emodin significantly inhibited currents activated by the P2X3 agonist α,β-meATP in HEK293 cells transfected with the P2X3 receptor. Therefore, nano emodin treatment may relieve DNP by decreasing excitatory transmission mediated by the DRG P2X3 receptor in T2DM rats.

Correlation of pretreatment 18F-FDG PET tumor textural features with gene expression in pharyngeal cancer and implications for radiotherapy-based treatment outcomes.

PubMed

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

2017-04-01

This study investigated the correlation of the matrix heterogeneity of tumors on 18 F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET-CT) with gene-expression profiling in patients with pharyngeal cancer and determined the prognostic factors for radiotherapy-based treatment outcomes. We retrospectively reviewed the records of 57 patients with stage III-IV oropharyngeal or hypopharyngeal cancer who had completed definitive therapy. Four groups of the textural features as well as 31 indices were studied in addition to maximum standard uptake value, metastatic tumor volume, and total lesion glycolysis. Immunohistochemical data from pretreatment biopsy specimens (Glut1, CAIX, VEGF, HIF-1α, EGFR, Ki-67, Bcl-2, CLAUDIN-4, YAP-1, c-Met, and p16) were analyzed. The relationships between the indices and genomic expression were studied, and the robustness of various textural features relative to cause-specific survival and primary relapse-free survival was analyzed. The overexpression of VEGF was positively associated with the increased values of the matrix heterogeneity obtained using gray-level nonuniformity for zone (GLNUz) and run-length nonuniformity (RLNU). Advanced T stage (p = 0.01, hazard ratio [HR] = 3.38), a VEGF immunoreactive score of >2 (p = 0.03, HR = 2.79), and a higher GLNUz value (p = 0.04, HR = 2.51) were prognostic factors for low cause-specific survival, whereas advanced T stage, a HIF-1α staining percentage of ≥80%, and a higher GLNUz value were prognostic factors for low primary-relapse free survival. The overexpression of VEGF was associated with the increased matrix index of GLNUz and RLNU. For patients with pharyngeal cancer requiring radiotherapy, the treatment outcome can be stratified according to the textural features, T stage, and biomarkers.

Using pan-tropical biomass maps to improve IPCC Tier 1 default level emission factors - a case study for the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Langner, Andreas; Achard, Frédéric; Grassi, Giacomo

2014-05-01

The IPCC proposes three Tier levels for greenhouse gas emission monitoring with a hierarchical order in terms of accuracy as well as data requirements/complexity. While Tier 1 provides default above-ground biomass (AGB) values per ecological zone and continent, Tier 2 and 3 are either based on country-specific remote sensing or permanent sample-plot data. Due to missing capacities most developing countries have to rely on Tier 1 default values, which show highest uncertainties. Furthermore, IPCC Tier 1 values lack transparency as they are based on a variety of studies that have been repeatedly updated and combined with expert opinions, thus blurring the original data sources. A possible way to increase credibility is a conservative monitoring approach, following the principle of conservativeness, thus reducing the likelihood of unjustified payments for emission reductions not reflecting reality. For the implementation of that principle knowledge about the distribution of the biomass within each ecological zone is essential. However, such information is not available for the IPCC Tier 1 values, which only provide mean values and/or AGB ranges that are not based on a common statistical analysis. Using the pan-tropical datasets of Saatchi et al (Proc Natl Acad Sci USA, 108, 9899-9904, 2011; 1km spatial resolution) and Baccini et al (Nat Climate Change, 2:182-185, 2012; 500m spatial resolution) we calculated the mean AGB values as well as their 50% confidence intervals for each ecological zone within the DRC using Globcover2009 as forest/non-forest mask and the FAO ecological zones dataset. Such analysis is more transparent while at the same time leading to "statistically improved" Tier 1 values, potentially allowing a conservative monitoring approach by selecting the lower bound of the confidence interval for emission estimation during the reference period and the higher bound for the assessment period. Within the DRC Baccini generally delivers higher AGB estimates than Saatchi but even Baccini shows between 81t/ha and 143t/ha lower estimates for Tropical Rain Forests and Moist Deciduous Forests respectively than IPCC. While the AGB values for Tropical Dry Forest of both maps are similar to the IPCC, Tropical Mountain Systems cannot easily be compared as their IPCC data lack a mean value. A recent study by Mitchard et al (Carbon Balance and Management, 8, 10, 2013) compared both pan-tropical datasets, pointing out notable differences in the Congo basin. However, their analysis revealed that none of both maps is generally superior. Therefore, we suggest using the average of both maps as a reasonable approximation to the real but unknown AGB values, thus resulting in 213±69t/ha for Tropical Rain Forests, 94±19t/ha for Moist Deciduous Forests, 119±31t/ha for Tropical Dry Forests and 182±61t/ha for Tropical Mountain Systems of the DRC while the corresponding IPCC values are 310t/ha, 260t/ha, 120t/ha and 40-190t/ha.

The Effect of Filamentous Turf Algal Removal on the Development of Gametes of the Coral Orbicella annularis

PubMed Central

Cetz-Navarro, Neidy P.; Carpizo-Ituarte, Eugenio J.; Espinoza-Avalos, Julio; Chee-Barragán, Guillermina

2015-01-01

Macroalgae and filamentous turf algae (FTA) are abundant on degraded coral reefs, and the reproductive responses of corals may indicate sub-lethal stress under these conditions. The percentage of gametogenic stages (PGS) and the maximum diameter of eggs (MDE; or egg size) of Orbicella annularis were used to evaluate the effect of long- (7–10 months) and short-term (2.5 months) FTA removal (treatments T1 and T2, respectively) at both the beginning (May) and the end (August) of gametogenesis. Ramets (individual lobes of a colony) surrounded by FTA (T3) or crustose coralline algae (CCA; T4) were used as controls. The removal of FTA enhanced the development of gametes (i.e., a larger and higher percentage of mature gametes (PMG)) of O. annularis for T1 vs. T3 ramets in May and T1 and T2 vs. T3 ramets in August. Similar values of PGS and MDE between gametes from T3 and T4 in both May and August were unexpected because a previous study had shown that the same ramets of T4 (with higher tissue thickness, chlorophyll a cm-2 and zooxanthellae density and lower mitotic index values) were less stressed than ramets of T3. Evaluating coral stress through reproduction can reveal more sensitive responses than other biological parameters; within reproductive metrics, PGS can be a better stress indicator than egg size. The presence of turf algae strongly impacted the development of gametes and egg size (e.g., PMG in ramets with FTA removal increased almost twofold in comparison with ramets surrounded by FTA in August), most likely exerting negative chronic effects in the long run due to the ubiquity and permanence of turf algae in the Caribbean. These algae can be considered a stressor that affects coral sexual reproduction. Although the effects of turf algae on O. annularis are apparently less severe than those of other stressors, the future of this species is uncertain because of the combined impacts of these effects, the decline of O. annularis populations and the almost complete lack of recruitment. PMID:25658586

The effect of filamentous turf algal removal on the development of gametes of the coral Orbicella annularis.

PubMed

Cetz-Navarro, Neidy P; Carpizo-Ituarte, Eugenio J; Espinoza-Avalos, Julio; Chee-Barragán, Guillermina

2015-01-01

Macroalgae and filamentous turf algae (FTA) are abundant on degraded coral reefs, and the reproductive responses of corals may indicate sub-lethal stress under these conditions. The percentage of gametogenic stages (PGS) and the maximum diameter of eggs (MDE; or egg size) of Orbicella annularis were used to evaluate the effect of long- (7-10 months) and short-term (2.5 months) FTA removal (treatments T1 and T2, respectively) at both the beginning (May) and the end (August) of gametogenesis. Ramets (individual lobes of a colony) surrounded by FTA (T3) or crustose coralline algae (CCA; T4) were used as controls. The removal of FTA enhanced the development of gametes (i.e., a larger and higher percentage of mature gametes (PMG)) of O. annularis for T1 vs. T3 ramets in May and T1 and T2 vs. T3 ramets in August. Similar values of PGS and MDE between gametes from T3 and T4 in both May and August were unexpected because a previous study had shown that the same ramets of T4 (with higher tissue thickness, chlorophyll a cm-2 and zooxanthellae density and lower mitotic index values) were less stressed than ramets of T3. Evaluating coral stress through reproduction can reveal more sensitive responses than other biological parameters; within reproductive metrics, PGS can be a better stress indicator than egg size. The presence of turf algae strongly impacted the development of gametes and egg size (e.g., PMG in ramets with FTA removal increased almost twofold in comparison with ramets surrounded by FTA in August), most likely exerting negative chronic effects in the long run due to the ubiquity and permanence of turf algae in the Caribbean. These algae can be considered a stressor that affects coral sexual reproduction. Although the effects of turf algae on O. annularis are apparently less severe than those of other stressors, the future of this species is uncertain because of the combined impacts of these effects, the decline of O. annularis populations and the almost complete lack of recruitment.

Short-term transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation reduces pain and improves the masticatory muscle activity in temporomandibular disorder patients: a randomized controlled trial

PubMed Central

FERREIRA, Ana Paula de Lima; da COSTA, Dayse Regina Alves; de OLIVEIRA, Ana Izabela Sobral; CARVALHO, Elyson Adam Nunes; CONTI, Paulo César Rodrigues; COSTA, Yuri Martins; BONJARDIM, Leonardo Rigoldi

2017-01-01

Abstract Studies to assess the effects of therapies on pain and masticatory muscle function are scarce. Objective To investigate the short-term effect of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) by examining pain intensity, pressure pain threshold (PPT) and electromyography (EMG) activity in patients with temporomandibular disorder (TMD). Material and Methods Forty patients with myofascial TMD were enrolled in this randomized placebo-controlled trial and were divided into two groups: active (n=20) and placebo (n=20) TENS. Outcome variables assessed at baseline (T0), immediately after (T2) and 48 hours after treatment (T1) were: pain intensity with the aid of a visual analogue scale (VAS); PPT of masticatory and cervical structures; EMG activity during mandibular rest position (MR), maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) and habitual chewing (HC). Two-way ANOVA for repeated measures was applied to the data and the significance level was set at 5%. Results There was a decrease in the VAS values at T1 and T2 when compared with T0 values in the active TENS group (p<0.050). The PPT between-group differences were significant at T1 assessment of the anterior temporalis and sternocleidomastoid (SCM) and T2 for the masseter and the SCM (p<0.050). A significant EMG activity reduction of the masseter and anterior temporalis was presented in the active TENS during MR at T1 assessment when compared with T0 (p<0.050). The EMG activity of the anterior temporalis was significantly higher in the active TENS during MVC at T1 and T2 when compared with placebo (p<0.050). The EMG activity of the masseter and anterior temporalis muscle was significantly higher in the active TENS during HC at T1 when compared with placebo (p<0.050). Conclusions The short-term therapeutic effects of TENS are superior to those of the placebo, because of reported facial pain, deep pain sensitivity and masticatory muscle EMG activity improvement. PMID:28403351

Effector T lymphocytes in well-nourished and malnourished infected children

PubMed Central

Nájera, O; González, C; Cortés, E; Toledo, G; Ortiz, R

2007-01-01

The mechanisms involved in impaired immunity in malnourished children are not well understood. CD4+ CD62L– and CD8+ CD28– do not express the naive cell markers CD62L and CD28, suggesting that they function as effector T cells. Using a flow cytometry-based analysis we examined the proportions of CD4+ CD62L– and CD8+ CD28– T cell subsets in well-nourished infected (WNI) and malnourished infected (MNI) children. Here we report that WNI children had a higher percentage of CD4+ CD62L– (11·1 ± 1·0) and CD8+ D28– (40·2 ± 5·0) T cell subsets than healthy (6·5 ± 1·0 and 23·9 ± 4·8) and MNI children (7·4 ± 1·1 and 23·1 ± 6·2, respectively) (P < 0·5). Data suggest that WNI children respond efficiently against pathogenic microbes. In contrast, relatively low numbers of circulating of CD4+ CD62L– and CD8+ CD28– T cells in MNI children may represent an ineffective response to infection. Levels of effector T cells in children with gastrointestinal infections versus those suffering from respiratory infections were also significantly different within the WNI group. While WNI children with gastrointestinal infections had higher absolute and relative values of CD8+, and CD8+ CD28– T subsets, by those with respiratory infections had higher values of CD4+ lymphocytes. However, due to the small number of subjects examined, our results in WNI children should be interpreted with caution and confirmed using a larger sample size. Our data suggest that altered expression of CD62L and CD28 receptors may contribute to impaired T cell function observed in MNI children. PMID:17362263

Statistical evaluation of fatty acid profile and cholesterol content in fish (common carp) lipids obtained by different sample preparation procedures.

PubMed

Spiric, Aurelija; Trbovic, Dejana; Vranic, Danijela; Djinovic, Jasna; Petronijevic, Radivoj; Matekalo-Sverak, Vesna

2010-07-05

Studies performed on lipid extraction from animal and fish tissues do not provide information on its influence on fatty acid composition of the extracted lipids as well as on cholesterol content. Data presented in this paper indicate the impact of extraction procedures on fatty acid profile of fish lipids extracted by the modified Soxhlet and ASE (accelerated solvent extraction) procedure. Cholesterol was also determined by direct saponification method, too. Student's paired t-test used for comparison of the total fat content in carp fish population obtained by two extraction methods shows that differences between values of the total fat content determined by ASE and modified Soxhlet method are not statistically significant. Values obtained by three different methods (direct saponification, ASE and modified Soxhlet method), used for determination of cholesterol content in carp, were compared by one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). The obtained results show that modified Soxhlet method gives results which differ significantly from the results obtained by direct saponification and ASE method. However the results obtained by direct saponification and ASE method do not differ significantly from each other. The highest quantities for cholesterol (37.65 to 65.44 mg/100 g) in the analyzed fish muscle were obtained by applying direct saponification method, as less destructive one, followed by ASE (34.16 to 52.60 mg/100 g) and modified Soxhlet extraction method (10.73 to 30.83 mg/100 g). Modified Soxhlet method for extraction of fish lipids gives higher values for n-6 fatty acids than ASE method (t(paired)=3.22 t(c)=2.36), while there is no statistically significant difference in the n-3 content levels between the methods (t(paired)=1.31). The UNSFA/SFA ratio obtained by using modified Soxhlet method is also higher than the ratio obtained using ASE method (t(paired)=4.88 t(c)=2.36). Results of Principal Component Analysis (PCA) showed that the highest positive impact to the second principal component (PC2) is recorded by C18:3 n-3, and C20:3 n-6, being present in a higher amount in the samples treated by the modified Soxhlet extraction, while C22:5 n-3, C20:3 n-3, C22:1 and C20:4, C16 and C18 negatively influence the score values of the PC2, showing significantly increased level in the samples treated by ASE method. Hotelling's paired T-square test used on the first three principal components for confirmation of differences in individual fatty acid content obtained by ASE and Soxhlet method in carp muscle showed statistically significant difference between these two data sets (T(2)=161.308, p<0.001). Copyright 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Pulmonary nodule detection in oncological patients - Value of respiratory-triggered, periodically rotated overlapping parallel T2-weighted imaging evaluated with PET/CT-MR.

PubMed

de Galiza Barbosa, Felipe; Geismar, Jan Henning; Delso, Gaspar; Messerli, Michael; Huellner, Martin; Stolzmann, Paul; Veit-Haibach, Patrick

2018-01-01

To prospectively evaluate the detection and conspicuity of pulmonary nodules in an oncological population, using a tri-modality PET/CT-MR protocol including a respiration-gated T2-PROPELLER sequence for possible integration into a simultaneous PET/MR protocol. 149 patients referred for staging of malignancy were prospectively enrolled in this single-center study. Imaging was performed on a tri-modality PET/CT-MR setup and was comprised of PET/CT and 3T-MR imaging with 3D dual-echo GRE pulse sequence (Dixon) and an axial respiration-gated T2-weighted PROPELLER (T2-P) sequence. Images were assessed for presence, conspicuity, size and interpretation of the pulmonary parenchymal nodules. McNemar's test was used to evaluate paired differences in nodule detection rates between MR and CT from PET/CT. The correlation of pulmonary nodule size in CT and MR imaging was assessed using Pearson correlation coefficient. 299 pulmonary nodules were detected on PET/CT. The detectability was significantly higher on T2-P (60%, p<0.01) compared to T1-weighted Dixon-type sequences (16.1-37.8%). T2-P had a significantly higher detection rate among FDG-positive (92.4%) and among confirmed malignant nodules (75.9%) compared to T1-Dixon. Nodules <10mm were detected less often by MR sequences than by CT (p < 0.01). However, nodules >10mm were detected equally well with T2-P (92.2%) and CT (p >0.05). In a per-patient analysis, there was no significant change in the clinical interpretation of the nodules detected with T2-P and CT. Despite the overall lower detection rate compared with CT, the free-breathing respiratory gating T2-w sequence showed higher detectability in all evaluated categories compared to breath-hold T1-weighted MR sequences. Specifically, the T2-P was found to be not statistically different from CT in FDG-positive nodules, in detection of nodules >10mm and concerning conspicuity of pulmonary nodules. Overall, the additional time investment into T2-P seems to be justified since clinical relevant assessment of pulmonary lung nodules can mostly be done by T2-P in a whole body PET/MR staging of oncologic patients. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Study of T-wave morphology parameters based on Principal Components Analysis during acute myocardial ischemia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Baglivo, Fabricio Hugo; Arini, Pedro David

2011-12-01

Electrocardiographic repolarization abnormalities can be detected by Principal Components Analysis of the T-wave. In this work we studied the efect of signal averaging on the mean value and reproducibility of the ratio of the 2nd to the 1st eigenvalue of T-wave (T21W) and the absolute and relative T-wave residuum (TrelWR and TabsWR) in the ECG during ischemia induced by Percutaneous Coronary Intervention. Also, the intra-subject and inter-subject variability of T-wave parameters have been analyzed. Results showed that TrelWR and TabsWR evaluated from the average of 10 complexes had lower values and higher reproducibility than those obtained from 1 complex. On the other hand T21W calculated from 10 complexes did not show statistical diferences versus the T21W calculated on single beats. The results of this study corroborate that, with a signal averaging technique, the 2nd and the 1st eigenvalue are not afected by noise while the 4th to 8th eigenvalues are so much afected by this, suggesting the use of the signal averaged technique before calculation of absolute and relative T-wave residuum. Finally, we have shown that T-wave morphology parameters present high intra-subject stability.

Overweight children with type 1 diabetes have a more favourable lipid profile than overweight non-diabetic children.

PubMed

van Vliet, Mariska; van der Heyden, Josine C; Diamant, Michaela; von Rosenstiel, Inès A; Schindhelm, Roger K; Heymans, Martijn W; Brandjes, Desiderius P M; Beijnen, Jos H; Aanstoot, Henk J; Veeze, Henk J

2012-03-01

In the present article, we aimed to compare the cardiometabolic risk between overweight children with and without type 1 diabetes (T1DM). Therefore, data with regard to cardiometabolic risk parameters of 44 overweight Caucasian children (3-18 years) with T1DM were matched with 44 overweight peers without T1DM for sex, ethnicity, age and standard deviation score of BMI (Z-BMI). Detailed history was taken, information regarding anthropometrics and family history were collected and blood pressure was measured. Blood samples were collected for evaluation of lipid profiles (fasting in controls, non-fasting in T1DM children), alanine aminotransferase and HbA1c (in children with T1DM). It was found that overweight children with T1DM had lower median standard deviation score of waist circumference (Z-WC) as compared to the overweight control group [median, 2.0 (interquartile range, IQR, 1.5-2.3) vs. 2.6 (IQR, 2.0-2.9), P < 0.001]. After adjustment for Z-WC, in children with T1DM, median high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels were significantly higher and median low-density lipoprotein cholesterol lower in T1DM children, as compared to their peers without T1DM [1.40 (IQR, 1.2-1.5) vs. 1.2 (IQR, 1.0-1.3) and 2.7 (IQR, 2.5-3.2) vs. 3.0 (IQR, 2.5-3.4), respectively, all P < 0.01]. When dividing children according to glycaemic status, children with suboptimal glycaemic control had higher values of triglycerides as compared to well-controlled children [1.3 (IQR, 1.0-1.8) vs. 0.96 (IQR, 0.80-1.2), P = 0.036]. In conclusion, overweight children with T1DM have a more favourable lipid profile, as compared to non-diabetic overweight controls, in spite of a higher frequency of a positive family history of CVD, T2DM and hypertension. Still, paediatricians should give extra attention to cardiometabolic risk factors within this vulnerable group, taking into account the already high cardiometabolic risk.

Effect of packaging methods and crude aloe vera gel (Aloe vera barbadensis miller) on the storage quality of enrobed goat meat bites.

PubMed

Jairath, Gauri; Chatli, Manish K; Sahoo, Jhari; Biswas, Ashim K

2015-06-01

The storage stability of enrobed goat meat bites (EGMB) incorporated with 3 % crude aloe vera (AV) gel was evaluated under aerobic (T-1; unenrobed control product, T-2; enrobed AV treated product) and modified atmospheric packaging (MAP, 50:50, CO2 and N2) (T-3; unenrobed control product, T-4; enrobed AV treated product) at 4 ± 1 °C for 42 days on the basis of physico-chemical, microbiological and sensory attributes. The pH value was higher, whereas water activity (aW) was lower in enrobed and MAP product. Thiobarbituric acid reacting substances (TBARS) and free fatty acid (FFA) values were significantly (P < 0.05) lower in MAP packaged (T-3) and AV treated products (T-2 and T-4) products than aerobic packaged (T-1), however it followed an increasing trend in all the products throughout storage. Instrumental colour and textural profile attributes were better maintained in MAP products than others. The sensory panellists graded T-4 'good to very good' even on Day 42, whereas T-1 was acceptable only up to 28 days. Standard Plate Count (SPC) was significantly (P < 0.05) lower in MAP products than aerobic packaged products. Results concluded that EGMB treated with AV gel can be successfully stored more than 42 days under MAP conditions without affecting its physico-chemical, textural, microbiological and sensory attributes.

Pharmacokinetic profiles of repaglinide in elderly subjects with type 2 diabetes.

PubMed

Hatorp, V; Huang, W C; Strange, P

1999-04-01

Pharmacokinetic profiles of single- and multiple-dose regimens of repaglinide were evaluated in 12 elderly subjects with type 2 diabetes. On day 1, following a 10-hour fast, subjects received a single 2-mg dose of repaglinide. Starting on day 2 and continuing for 7 days, each subject received a 2-mg dose of repaglinide 15 minutes before each of the three main meals. On day 9, subjects received a single 2-mg dose of repaglinide. Pharmacokinetic profiles, including area under the curve (AUC), log(AUC), maximal concentration (Cmax), log(Cmax), time to maximal concentration (Tmax), and half-life (T(1/2)), were determined at completion of the single- and multiple-dose regimens (days 1 and 9, respectively). Trough repaglinide values were collected on days 2 through 7. The mean log(AUC) values after multiple dosing were significantly higher than the values obtained after a single dose. The mean values for log(Cmax), and Tmax were comparable after each dosing regimen. The T(1/2) of repaglinide after multiple dosing was 1.7 hours. The trough values for repaglinide were low. No hypoglycemic events were reported. The pharmacokinetic profiles of repaglinide after single- and multiple-dose regimens were similar, and repaglinide was well tolerated by elderly subjects with type 2 diabetes.

Comparative evaluation of two glycine transporter 1 radiotracers [11C]GSK931145 and [18F]MK-6577 in baboons.

PubMed

Zheng, Ming-Qiang; Lin, Shu-Fei; Holden, Daniel; Naganawa, Mika; Ropchan, Jim R; Najafzaden, Soheila; Kapinos, Michael; Tabriz, Mike; Carson, Richard E; Hamill, Terence G; Huang, Yiyun

2016-03-01

Glycine transporter type-1 (GlyT1) has been proposed as a target for drug development for schizophrenia. PET imaging with a GlyT1 specific radiotracer will allow for the measurement of target occupancy of GlyT1 inhibitors, and for in vivo investigation of GlyT1 alterations in schizophrenia. We conducted a comparative evaluation of two GlyT1 radiotracers, [(11) C]GSK931145, and [(18) F]MK-6577, in baboons. Two baboons were imaged with [(11) C]GSK931145 and [(18) F]MK-6577. Blocking studies with GSK931145 (0.3 or 0.2 mg/kg) were conducted to determine the level of tracer specific binding. [(11) C]GSK931145 and [(18) F]MK-6577 were synthesized in good yield and high specific activity. Moderately fast metabolism was observed for both tracers, with ∼ 30% of parent at 30 min post-injection. In the brain, both radiotracers showed good uptake and distribution profiles consistent with regional GlyT1 densities. [(18) F]MK-6577 displayed higher uptake and faster kinetics than [(11) C]GSK931145. Time activity curves were well described by the two-tissue compartment model. Regional volume of distribution (VT ) values were higher for [(18) F]MK-6577 than [(11) C]GSK931145. Pretreatment with GSK931145 reduced tracer uptake to a homogeneous level throughout the brain, indicating in vivo binding specificity and lack of a reference region for both radiotracers. Linear regression analysis of VT estimates between tracers indicated higher specific binding for [(18) F]MK-6577 than [(11) C]GSK931145, consistent with higher regional binding potential (BPND ) values of [(18) F]MK-6577 calculated using VT from the baseline scans and non-displaceable distribution volume (VND ) derived from blocking studies. [(18) F]MK-6577 appears to be a superior radiotracer with higher brain uptake, faster kinetics, and higher specific binding signals than [(11) C]GSK931145. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

ACE Gene I/D Polymorphism and Obesity in 1,574 Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus.

PubMed

Pan, Yan-Hong; Wang, Min; Huang, Yan-Mei; Wang, Ying-Hui; Chen, Yin-Ling; Geng, Li-Jun; Zhang, Xiao-Xi; Zhao, Hai-Lu

2016-01-01

Association between ACE gene I/D polymorphism and the risk of overweight/obesity remains controversial. We investigated the possible relationship between ACE gene I/D polymorphism and obesity in Chinese type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients. In this study, obesity was defined as a body mass index (BMI) value ≥ 25 kg/m 2 and subjects were classified into 4 groups (lean, normal, overweight, and obese). PCR (polymerase chain reaction) was used to detect the ACE gene I/D polymorphism in T2DM patients. Metabolic measurements including blood glucose, lipid profile, and blood pressure were obtained. Frequencies of the ACE genotypes (DD, ID, and II) were not significant among the 4 groups of BMI-defined patients ( P = 0.679) while ACE II carriers showed higher systolic blood pressure (SBP) and pulse pressure (PP) (all P < 0.050). Hyperglycemia, hypertension, and dyslipidemia in these T2DM patients were found to be significantly associated with BMI. In conclusion, the relationship of ACE gene I/D polymorphism with obesity is insignificant in Chinese patients with T2DM. SBP and PP might be higher in the ACE II carriers than in the DD and ID carriers.

Effect of morphological properties of ionic liquid-templated mesoporous anatase TiO 2 on performance of PEMFC with Nafion/TiO 2 composite membrane at elevated temperature and low relative humidity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, S. Y.; Han, C. C.; Tsai, C. H.; Huang, J.; Chen-Yang, Y. W.

Three high-purity TiO 2 (anatase) powders (T PF6, T BF4, and T conventional) were prepared by the sol-gel method with/without ionic liquid as template and calcinations at 450 °C. These powders were, then, characterized to investigate their differences in morphological properties. Electrochemical performances of the H 2/O 2 PEMFCs employing the Nafion composite membranes with these three TiO 2 powders as fillers were studied over 80-120 °C under 50% and 95% relative humidity (RH). The result showed that the order of the fillers effect on the performance at 80 and 90 °C was the same as that of the TiO 2 filler's specific surface area (i.e. T PF6 > T conventional > T BF4 > P25, a commercially available nonporous TiO 2 powder). However, the order between T conventional and T BF4 was reversed at 110 and 120 °C under 50% RH. This indicates that the size and the amount of mesopores, which better confined the water molecules, were significant contributing factors to the performances at the higher temperatures. The best power density obtained under 50% RH at 120 °C and a voltage of 0.4 V was from the PEMFC with the T PF6-containing Nafion composite membrane. It was about 5.7 times higher than the value obtained from that with the recast Nafion membrane.

Is There an Additional Value of {sup 11}C-Choline PET-CT to T2-weighted MRI Images in the Localization of Intraprostatic Tumor Nodules?

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

Van den Bergh, Laura, E-mail: laura.vandenbergh@uzleuven.be; Koole, Michel; Isebaert, Sofie

2012-08-01

Purpose: To investigate the additional value of {sup 11}C-choline positron emission tomography (PET)-computed tomography (CT) to T2-weighted (T2w) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for localization of intraprostatic tumor nodules. Methods and Materials: Forty-nine prostate cancer patients underwent T2w MRI and {sup 11}C-choline PET-CT before radical prostatectomy and extended lymphadenectomy. Tumor regions were outlined on the whole-mount histopathology sections and on the T2w MR images. Tumor localization was recorded in the basal, middle, and apical part of the prostate by means of an octant grid. To analyze {sup 11}C-choline PET-CT images, the same grid was used to calculate the standardized uptake valuesmore » (SUV) per octant, after rigid registration with the T2w MR images for anatomic reference. Results: In total, 1,176 octants were analyzed. Sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of T2w MRI were 33.5%, 94.6%, and 70.2%, respectively. For {sup 11}C-choline PET-CT, the mean SUV{sub max} of malignant octants was significantly higher than the mean SUV{sub max} of benign octants (3.69 {+-} 1.29 vs. 3.06 {+-} 0.97, p < 0.0001) which was also true for mean SUV{sub mean} values (2.39 {+-} 0.77 vs. 1.94 {+-} 0.61, p < 0.0001). A positive correlation was observed between SUV{sub mean} and absolute tumor volume (Spearman r = 0.3003, p = 0.0362). No correlation was found between SUVs and prostate-specific antigen, T-stage or Gleason score. The highest accuracy (61.1%) was obtained with a SUV{sub max} cutoff of 2.70, resulting in a sensitivity of 77.4% and a specificity of 44.9%. When both modalities were combined (PET-CT or MRI positive), sensitivity levels increased as a function of SUV{sub max} but at the cost of specificity. When only considering suspect octants on {sup 11}C-choline PET-CT (SUV{sub max} {>=} 2.70) and T2w MRI, 84.7% of these segments were in agreement with the gold standard, compared with 80.5% for T2w MRI alone. Conclusions: The additional value of {sup 11}C-choline PET-CT next to T2w MRI in detecting tumor nodules within the prostate is limited.« less

Intraindividual Crossover Comparison of Gadoxetic Acid Dose for Liver MRI in Normal Volunteers.

PubMed

Motosugi, Utaroh; Bannas, Peter; Hernando, Diego; Salmani Rahimi, Mahdi; Holmes, James H; Reeder, Scott B

2016-01-01

We performed a quantitative intraindividual comparison of the performance of 0.025- and 0.05-mmol/kg doses for gadoxetic acid-enhanced liver magnetic resonance (MR) imaging. Eleven healthy volunteers underwent liver MR imaging twice, once with a 0.025- and once with a 0.05-mmol/kg dose of gadoxetic acid. MR spectroscopy and 3-dimensional gradient-echo T1-weighted images (3D-GRE) were obtained before and 3, 10, and 20 min after injection of the contrast medium to measure T1 and T2 values and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) performance. During the dynamic phase, highly time-resolved 3D-GRE was used to estimate the relative CNR (CNRrel) of the hepatic artery and portal vein (PV) to the liver. We used paired t-tests to compare the results of different doses. During the hepatobiliary phase, we observed shorter T1 values and higher SNRs of the liver (P < 0.001) and higher liver-to-PV and liver-to-muscle CNRs (P < 0.002) using 0.05 mmol/kg compared to 0.025 mmol/kg. Increasing the dose to 0.05 mmol/kg yielded a greater T1-shortening effect at 10 min delay even compared with 0.025 mmol/kg at 20 min (P < 0.001). During the dynamic phase, the peak CNRrel for the hepatic artery and portal vein were higher using 0.05 mmol/kg (P = 0.007 to 0.035). Use of gadoxetic acid at a dose of 0.05 mmol/kg leads to significantly higher SNR and CNR performance than with 0.025 mmol/kg. Quantitatively, a 10-min delay may be feasible for hepatobiliary-phase imaging when using 0.05 mmol/kg of gadoxetic acid.

Bone marrow edema pattern in advanced hip osteoarthritis: quantitative assessment with magnetic resonance imaging and correlation with clinical examination, radiographic findings, and histopathology.

PubMed

Taljanovic, Mihra S; Graham, Anna R; Benjamin, James B; Gmitro, Arthur F; Krupinski, Elizabeth A; Schwartz, Stephanie A; Hunter, Tim B; Resnick, Donald L

2008-05-01

To correlate the amount of bone marrow edema (BME) calculated by magnetic resonance imaging(MRI) with clinical findings, histopathology, and radiographic findings, in patients with advanced hip osteoarthritis(OA). The study was approved by The Institutional Human Subject Protection Committee. Coronal MRI of hips was acquired in 19 patients who underwent hip replacement. A spin echo (SE) sequence with four echoes and separate fast spin echo (FSE) proton density (PD)-weighted SE sequences of fat (F) and water (W) were acquired with water and fat suppression, respectively. T2 and water:fat ratio calculations were made for the outlined regions of interest. The calculated MRI values were correlated with the clinical, radiographic, and histopathologic findings. Analyses of variance were done on the MRI data for W/(W + F) and for T2 values (total and focal values) for the symptomatic and contralateral hips. The values were significantly higher in the study group. Statistically significant correlations were found between pain and total W/(W + F), pain and focal T2 values, and the number of microfractures and calculated BME for the focal W/(W + F) in the proximal femora. Statistically significant correlations were found between the radiographic findings and MRI values for total W/(W + F), focal W/(W + F) and focal T2 and among the radiographic findings, pain, and hip movement. On histopathology, only a small amount of BME was seen in eight proximal femora. The amount of BME in the OA hip, as measured by MRI, correlates with the severity of pain, radiographic findings, and number of microfractures.

Evaluation of edible polymer coatings enriched with green tea extract on quality of chicken nuggets

PubMed Central

Kristam, Prathyusha; Eswarapragada, Naga Mallika; Bandi, Eswara Rao; Tumati, Srinivas Rao

2016-01-01

Aim: The present study was conducted to evaluate the physico-chemical and microbiological characteristics of chicken nuggets coated with sodium alginate (SA) coatings at refrigerated (4±1°C) and frozen (−18±1°C) storage condition at regular periodic intervals. Materials and Methods: Chicken meat nuggets were separated into three groups: Uncoated control (C), coated with alginate coating (T1), and coated with alginate coating incorporated with 1% green tea extract (GTE) (T2). The nuggets were analyzed at regular intervals of 5days for refrigerated storage and 15 days for frozen storage period in terms of pH, 2-thiobarbituric acid value (TBA), peroxide value (PV), total plate count (TPC), water loss, and sensory characteristics. Results: The results indicated that the nuggets coated with alginate-based coatings effectively reduced the spoilage as indicated by pH, TBA, and PVs. pH values of the formulations ranged from 6.15 to 6.34 at refrigerated storage temperature (4±1°C) and 6.49-6.71 at frozen storage temperature (−18±1°C). TBA value of the treatments ranged from 1.28 to 1.54 mg MDA/kg and 1.34 to 1.50 mg MDA/kg under refrigerated and frozen storage temperatures, respectively. Color, flavor, juiciness, tenderness, and overall acceptability of the nuggets differed significantly (p<0.05) with the coated nuggets. The coated nuggets were well acceptable upto 15 days at refrigerated storage temperature (4±1°C) and upto 75 days at frozen storage temperature (−18±1°C). Nuggets coated with GTE incorporated coating solution had a lower TBA-reactive substances values, PVs, and TPCs when compared to the nuggets coated with SA and the control group. Conclusion: Study revealed that incorporation of edible coatings with antioxidants, namely, GTE at 1% level had a significant effect in reducing the fat oxidation. The samples recorded a shelf life of 15 days under refrigerated storage when compared to their controls with 10 days of storage period and 75 days under frozen storage against controls with 60 days. T1, T2, and T3 formulations had higher sensory scores in comparison to the controls. Overall acceptability scores of T1 were higher when compared to the other formulations. PMID:27536027

Discrimination of benign and malignant lymph nodes at 7.0T compared to 1.5T magnetic resonance imaging using ultrasmall particles of iron oxide: a feasibility preclinical study.

PubMed

Kinner, Sonja; Maderwald, Stefan; Albert, Juliane; Parohl, Nina; Corot, Claire; Robert, Philippe; Baba, Hideo A; Barkhausen, Jörg

2013-12-01

To investigate the feasibility and performance of 7T magnetic resonance imaging compared to 1.5T imaging to discriminate benign (normal and inflammatory changed) from tumor-bearing lymph nodes in rabbits using ultrasmall particles of iron oxide (USPIO)-based contrast agents. Six New Zealand White rabbits were inoculated with either complete Freund's adjuvant cell suspension (n = 3) to induce reactively enlarged lymph nodes or with VX2 tumor cells to produce metastatic lymph nodes (n = 3). Image acquisition was performed before and 24 hours after bolus injection of an USPIO contrast agent at 1.5T and afterward at 7T using T1-weighted and T2*-weighted sequences. Sensitivities, specificities, and negative and positive predictive values for the detection of lymph node metastases were calculated for both field strengths with histopathology serving as reference standard. Sizes of lymph nodes with no, inflammatory, and malignant changes were compared using a Mann-Whitney U-test. All 24 lymph nodes were detected at 1.5T as well as at 7T. At 1.5T, sensitivity amounted to 0.67, while specificity reached a value of 1. At the higher field strength (7T), imaging was able to reach sensitivity and specificity values of 1. No statistical differences were detected concerning lymph node sizes. Magnetic resonance lymphography with USPIO contrast agents allows for differentiation of normal and reactively enlarged lymph nodes compared to metastatic nodes. First experiments at 7T show promising results compared to 1.5T, which have to be evaluated in further trials. Copyright © 2013. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Investigation of thick PLD-GdBCO and ZrO2 doped GdBCO coated conductors with high critical current on PLD-CeO2 capped IBAD-GZO substrate tapes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Takahashi, K.; Kobayashi, H.; Yamada, Y.; Ibi, A.; Fukushima, H.; Konishi, M.; Miyata, S.; Shiohara, Y.; Kato, T.; Hirayama, T.

2006-09-01

In order to increase the critical current, Ic, we have fabricated thick GdBa2Cu3O7-δ (GdBCO) coated conductors (CCs) by the pulsed laser deposition (PLD) method on PLD-CeO2/ion-beam assisted deposition (IBAD)-Gd2Zr2O7 (GZO)/hastelloy metal substrate tapes. The highest critical current value was 522 A cm-1 for a thickness of 3.6 µm in self-field at 77 K. It was found that a low volume fraction of a-axis orientated grains was obtained in the thick GdBCO CCs, compared to YBa2Cu3O7-δ (YBCO) CCs. Consequently, the GdBCO CCs showed higher critical current density (Jc) than YBCO CCs in all thicknesses from 0.2 to 3.6 µm. Furthermore, we have succeeded in improving Ic in a magnetic field by the introduction of artificial pinning centres using a 5 mol% ZrO2 doped GdBCO target. In the measurement of the Ic dependence on the magnetic field angle, θ, Ic was much improved, especially at 0°, i.e., with the magnetic field parallel to the c-axis. The Ic value at 3 T was 59.5 A cm-1 at 0° and it showed a minimum of 42.3 A cm-1 at 82° for 2.28 µm thick CC. The minimum value in the angular dependence of Ic at 3 T was about five times higher than that of YBCO CC and two times higher than that of pure GdBCO CC.

[Liver and heart T2* measurement in secondary haemochromatosis].

PubMed

Barrera Portillo, M C; Uranga Uranga, M; Sánchez González, J; Alústiza Echeverría, J M; Gervás Wells, C; Guisasola Íñiguez, A

2013-01-01

To determine whether there is iron overload by calculating the T2* value in the liver and myocardium in patients with secondary haemochromatosis. To analyse the correlation of the values obtained with the iron levels in blood, with the liver iron concentration (LIC) calculated using magnetic resonance (MR) imaging, and the correlation between them. A total of 16 patients (13 males, 3 females), with a mean age of 61 years, were included and evaluated in the years 2008 and 2009. Fifteen of them had received multiple transfusions, and one was diagnosed with hereditary sideroblastic anaemia. The measurements included, blood ferritin, LIC by MRI, cardiac function using MRI and the T2* value by means of multi-echo sequences in the liver (TR/TE1/ΔTE/No of echos/α: 21/1,18/1.0/20/35°) and myocardium (26/1.04/0.8/30/60°). A correlation-regression analysis was performed by comparing the cardiac and liver T2* values with the ferritin, LIC and between each of them. A total of 13 patients had ferritin values greater than 1000ng/ml (median/minimum/maximum: 1762/294/3785ng/ml). An increased LIC greater than 80μmol/g (median/minimum/maximum: 125.4/41.2/241.5μmol/g) was observed in 13 patients. In all cases cardiac function was conserved, and in 15 cases the liver T2* value was less than 6.3ms. The myocardium T2* value was less than 20ms. in only one case. A high correlation was observed between the liver T2* values and the LIC (r:-0.912). The correlation was statistically significant between the liver T2* value and ferritin (r:-0.541). The correlations between myocardium T2* and ferritin, myocardium T2* and LIC, and myocardium T2* and liver T2* were not statistically significant. The liver T2* showed a high correlation with LIC and a statistically significant correlation with ferritin. No association was observed between the myocardium T2* values and ferritin in blood, the LIC or the liver T2* value. Copyright © 2011 SERAM. Published by Elsevier Espana. All rights reserved.

Mild peripheral neuropathy prevents both leg muscular ischaemia and activation of exercise-induced coagulation in Type 2 diabetic patients with peripheral artery disease.

PubMed

Piarulli, F; Sambataro, M; Minicuci, N; Scarano, L; Laverda, B; Baiocchi, M R; Baldo-Enzi, G; Galasso, S; Bax, G; Fedele, D

2007-10-01

To study the influence of peripheral neuropathy on intermittent claudication in patients with Type 2 diabetes (T2DM). Twenty-five patients with T2DM were grouped according to the ankle/brachial index (ABI): 10 with ABI > 0.9 without peripheral artery disease (PAD; group T2DM) and 15 with ABI < 0.9 with PAD (group T2DM + PAD). Twelve individuals without T2DM with PAD (group PAD without T2DM) were also enrolled. Tests for peripheral neuropathy were performed in all patients. ABI, rate pressure product, prothrombin fragments 1 + 2 (F1+2), thrombin-anti-thrombin complex (TAT), and d-dimer were measured before and after a treadmill test. During exercise both initial and absolute claudication distance and electrocardiogram readings were recorded. We found mild peripheral neuropathy in 20% of group T2DM and 46.7% of group T2DM + PAD (P < 0.01). After exercise, the rate pressure product increased in each group; ABI fell in T2DM + PAD (P < 0.0001) and in PAD without T2DM (P = 0.0005); the fall was greater in the latter group. Initial and absolute claudication distances were similar in PAD patients. In group T2DM + PAD, absolute claudication distance was longer in the subgroup without peripheral neuropathy (P < 0.05), whereas ABI and rate pressure products were similar. F1+2 values at rest were higher in group T2DM + PAD. After exercise, F1+2 values and TAT increased only in group PAD without T2DM. Only group PAD without T2DM experienced muscular ischaemia, whereas group T2DM + PAD did not. Mild peripheral neuropathy may have prevented them from reaching the point of muscular ischaemia during the treadmill test, because they stopped exercising with the early onset of pain. Reaching a false absolute claudication distance may induce ischaemic preconditioning. These findings suggest a possible protective role of mild peripheral neuropathy in T2DM patients with intermittent claudication, by preventing further activation of coagulation during treadmill testing.

Job Demands, Burnout, and Teamwork in Healthcare Professionals Working in a General Hospital that Was Analysed At Two Points in Time

PubMed Central

Mijakoski, Dragan; Karadzhinska-Bislimovska, Jovanka; Stoleski, Sasho; Minov, Jordan; Atanasovska, Aneta; Bihorac, Elida

2018-01-01

AIM: The purpose of the paper was to assess job demands, burnout, and teamwork in healthcare professionals (HPs) working in a general hospital that was analysed at two points in time with a time lag of three years. METHODS: Time 1 respondents (N = 325) were HPs who participated during the first wave of data collection (2011). Time 2 respondents (N = 197) were HPs from the same hospital who responded at Time 2 (2014). Job demands, burnout, and teamwork were measured with Hospital Experience Scale, Maslach Burnout Inventory, and Hospital Survey on Patient Safety Culture, respectively. RESULTS: Significantly higher scores of emotional exhaustion (21.03 vs. 15.37, t = 5.1, p < 0.001), depersonalization (4.48 vs. 2.75, t = 3.8, p < 0.001), as well as organizational (2.51 vs. 2.34, t = 2.38, p = 0.017), emotional (2.46 vs. 2.25, t = 3.68, p < 0.001), and cognitive (2.82 vs. 2.64, t = 2.68, p = 0.008) job demands were found at Time 2. Teamwork levels were similar at both points in time (Time 1 = 3.84 vs. Time 2 = 3.84, t = 0.043, p = 0.97). CONCLUSION: Actual longitudinal study revealed significantly higher mean values of emotional exhaustion and depersonalization in 2014 that could be explained by significantly increased job demands between analysed points in time. PMID:29731948

Simultaneous electroencephalography-functional MRI at 3 T: an analysis of safety risks imposed by performing anatomical reference scans with the EEG equipment in place.

PubMed

Nöth, Ulrike; Laufs, Helmut; Stoermer, Robert; Deichmann, Ralf

2012-03-01

To describe heating effects to be expected in simultaneous electroencephalography (EEG) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) when deviating from the EEG manufacturer's instructions; to test which anatomical MRI sequences have a sufficiently low specific absorption rate (SAR) to be performed with the EEG equipment in place; and to suggest precautions to reduce the risk of heating. Heating was determined in vivo below eight EEG electrodes, using both head and body coil transmission and sequences covering the whole range of SAR values. Head transmit coil: temperature increases were below 2.2°C for low SAR sequences, but reached 4.6°C (one subject, clavicle) for high SAR sequences; the equilibrium temperature T(eq) remained below 39°C. Body transmit coil: temperature increases were higher and more frequent over subjects and electrodes, with values below 2.6°C for low SAR sequences, reaching 6.9°C for high SAR sequences (T8 electrode) with T(eq) exceeding a critical level of 40°C. Anatomical imaging should be based on T1-weighted sequences (FLASH, MPRAGE, MDEFT) with an SAR below values for functional MRI sequences based on gradient echo planar imaging. Anatomical sequences with a high SAR can pose a significant risk, which is reduced by using head coil transmission. Copyright © 2011 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Effect of O2 partial pressure on post annealed Ba2YCu3O(7-delta) thin films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Phillps, J. M.; Siegal, M. P.; Hou, S. Y.; Tiefel, T. H.; Marshall, J. H.

1992-04-01

Epitaxial films of Ba2YCu3O(7-delta) (BYCO) as thin as 250 A and with J(sub c)'s approaching those of the best in situ grown films can be formed by co-evaporating BaF2, Y, and Cu followed by a two-stage anneal. High quality films of these thicknesses become possible if low oxygen partial pressure (p(O2) = 4.3 Torr) is used during the high temperature portion of the anneal (T(sub a)). The BYCO melt line is the upper limit for T(sub a). The use of low p(O2) shifts the window for stable BYCO film growth to lower temperature, which allows the formation of smooth films with greater microstructural disorder than is found in films grown in p(O2) = 740 Torr at higher T(sub a). The best films annealed in p(O2) = 4.3 Torr have J(sub c) values a factor of four higher than do comparable films annealed in p(O2) = 740 Torr. The relationship between the T(sub a) required to grow films with the strongest pinning force and p(O2) is log (p(O2)) proportional to T(sub a) exp(1 exp a) independent of growth method (in situ or ex situ) over a range of five orders of magnitude of p(O2).

Comparison of predictability for human pharmacokinetics parameters among monkeys, rats, and chimeric mice with humanised liver.

PubMed

Miyamoto, Maki; Iwasaki, Shinji; Chisaki, Ikumi; Nakagawa, Sayaka; Amano, Nobuyuki; Hirabayashi, Hideki

2017-12-01

1. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the usefulness of chimeric mice with humanised liver (PXB mice) for the prediction of clearance (CL t ) and volume of distribution at steady state (Vd ss ), in comparison with monkeys, which have been reported as a reliable model for human pharmacokinetics (PK) prediction, and with rats, as a conventional PK model. 2. CL t and Vd ss values in PXB mice, monkeys and rats were determined following intravenous administration of 30 compounds known to be mainly eliminated in humans via the hepatic metabolism by various drug-metabolising enzymes. Using single-species allometric scaling, human CL t and Vd ss values were predicted from the three animal models. 3. Predicted CL t values from PXB mice exhibited the highest predictability: 25 for PXB mice, 21 for monkeys and 14 for rats were predicted within a three-fold range of actual values among 30 compounds. For predicted human Vd ss values, the number of compounds falling within a three-fold range was 23 for PXB mice, 24 for monkeys, and 16 for rats among 29 compounds. PXB mice indicated a higher predictability for CL t and Vd ss values than the other animal models. 4. These results demonstrate the utility of PXB mice in predicting human PK parameters.

Slow kinetics of Brownian maxima.

PubMed

Ben-Naim, E; Krapivsky, P L

2014-07-18

We study extreme-value statistics of Brownian trajectories in one dimension. We define the maximum as the largest position to date and compare maxima of two particles undergoing independent Brownian motion. We focus on the probability P(t) that the two maxima remain ordered up to time t and find the algebraic decay P ∼ t(-β) with exponent β = 1/4. When the two particles have diffusion constants D(1) and D(2), the exponent depends on the mobilities, β = (1/π) arctan sqrt[D(2)/D(1)]. We also use numerical simulations to investigate maxima of multiple particles in one dimension and the largest extension of particles in higher dimensions.

[Characterizing chromophoric dissolved organic matter (CDOM) in Lake Honghu, Lake Donghu and Lake Liangzihu using excitation-emission matrices (EEMs) fluorescence and parallel factor analysis (PARAFAC)].

PubMed

Zhou, Yong-Qiang; Zhang, Yun-Lin; Niu, Cheng; Wang, Ming-Zhu

2013-12-01

Little is known about DOM characteristics in medium to large sized lakes located in the middle and lower reaches of Yangtze River, like Lake Honghu, Lake Donghu and Lake Liangzihu. Absorption, fluorescence and composition characteristics of chromophoric dissolved organic matter (CDOM) are presented using the absorption spectroscopy, the excitation-emission ma trices (EEMs) fluorescence and parallel factor analysis (PARAFAC) model based on the data collected in Sep-Oct. 2007 including 15, 9 and 10 samplings in Lake Honghu, Lake Donghu and Lake Liangzihu, respectively. CDOM absorption coefficient at 350 nm a(350) coefficient in Lake Honghu was significantly higher than those in Lake Donghu and Lake Liangzihu (t-test, p< 0. 001). A significant negative correlation was found between CDOM spectral slope in the wavelength range of 280-500 nm (S280-500) and a(350) (R2 =0. 781, p<0. 001). The mean value of S280-500 in Lake Honghu was significantly lower than those in Lake Donghu (t-test, p

[Comparison of the dietary phytosterols intake and serum lipids content in elderly women from three cities of China].

PubMed

Han, Jun-hua; Li, Yan-ping; Men, Jian-hua; Yu, Wen-tao; Yang, Yue-xin

2009-12-01

To investigate the dietary phytosterol intake of elderly women in three different cities of China, and to compare the main dietary sources, so that to discuss the relationship of dietary phytosterol intake and serum lipids. Based on the dietary pattern, women more than 50 years old from Beijing, Hefei and Urumchi were chosen as testers, 80 - 100 people for each city respectively. The dietary survey was done by continues 24 hours review of two days, the plant food were collected and the phytosterol content (include beta-sitosterol, campesterol, stigmasterol, sitostanol) were analyzed by GC methods, the total phytosterols content were calculated. The dietary phytosterol intake were calculated and serum lipids were also analyzed in all the testers. Testers from Beijing, Hefei and Urumchi were 100, 101 and 84 respectively. The average dietary phytosterol intake of people in Beijing and Hefei were 340.3 mg/d and 313.5 mg/d, the main sources were plant oil and cereals, while the average dietary phytosterol intake of people in Urumchi were 550.4 mg/d, higher than the other two cities (t values were 9.369, 10.420, respectively, both P values < 0.01), the main source in Urumchi was cereal (provide 53.1% of the total phytosterol intake). The laboratory results showed, testers in Urumchi had significantly lower serum TC content ((4.04 +/- 0.78) mmol/L) than that in Beijing ((4.89 +/- 0.91) mmol/L) and Hefei ((4.71 +/- 0.83) mmol/L) (t value were 6.766 and 5.401 respectively, both P values < 0.01); serum TG content in Urumchi((1.01 +/- 0.48) mmol/L) was also lower than that in Beijing ((1.31 +/- 0.53) mmol/L) and Hefei ((1.66 +/- 0.75) mmol/L) (t values were 3.343 and 7.293 respectively, both P values < 0.01); the serum glucose is also lower in testers in Urumchi ((5.02 +/- 2.18) mmol/L) compared with testers in Beijing ((5.69 +/- 1.53) mmol/L, t = 2.561, P < 0.05) and Hefei ((5.78 +/- 1.53) mmol/L, t = 2.934, P < 0.01). Different dietary pattern result in significantly different dietary phytosterol intake in elder women in three cities, higher, phytosterol intake seemed to contribute to lower serum lipids.

Additive value of 3T cardiovascular magnetic resonance coronary angiography for detecting coronary artery disease.

PubMed

Zhang, Lijun; Song, Xiantao; Dong, Li; Li, Jianan; Dou, Ruiyu; Fan, Zhanming; An, Jing; Li, Debiao

2018-04-30

The purpose of the work was to evaluate the incremental diagnostic value of free-breathing, contrast-enhanced, whole-heart, 3 T cardiovascular magnetic resonance coronary angiography (CE-MRCA) to stress/rest myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) and late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) imaging for detecting coronary artery disease (CAD). Fifty-one patients with suspected CAD underwent a comprehensive cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) examination (CE-MRCA, MPI, and LGE). The additive diagnostic value of MRCA to MPI and LGE was evaluated using invasive x-ray coronary angiography (XA) as the standard for defining functionally significant CAD (≥ 50% stenosis in vessels > 2 mm in diameter). 90.2% (46/51) patients (54.0 ± 11.5 years; 71.7% men) completed CE-MRCA successfully. On per-patient basis, compared to MPI/LGE alone or MPI alone, the addition of MRCA resulted in higher sensitivity (100% vs. 76.5%, p < 0.01), no change in specificity (58.3% vs. 66.7%, p = 0.6), and higher accuracy (89.1% vs 73.9%, p < 0.01) for CAD detection (prevalence = 73.9%). Compared to LGE alone, the addition of CE-MRCA resulted in higher sensitivity (97.1% vs. 41.2%, p < 0.01), inferior specificity (83.3% vs. 91.7%, p = 0.02), and higher diagnostic accuracy (93.5% vs. 54.3%, p < 0.01). The inclusion of successful free-breathing, whole-heart, 3 T CE-MRCA significantly improved the sensitivity and diagnostic accuracy as compared to MPI and LGE alone for CAD detection.

[Establishment of Reference Value of Hs-cTnT in Sichuan Region and Its Diagnostic Value in Patients with Chest Pain].

PubMed

Guo, Ying; Du, Xiang-Yang; Huang, Hua-Lan; Wang, Wei-Qing; Nie, Xin; Li, Gui-Xing

2017-11-01

To establish the reference value of high sensitive cardiac troponin T (hs-cTnT) and the efficiency of reference value in the diagnosis of chest pain. Volunteers from eight independent communities in Chengdu,Sichuan were selected with detailed records of physical examination,electrocardiogram,ultrasound examination. The level of hs-cTnT for healthy volunteers was tested to determine ninety-ninth percentile references according to sex and ages. 2 249 patients with chest pain in the emergency department of Western China Hospital from July 2009 to July 2014 were enrolled to measure the efficiency of reference value for diagnosing acute myocardial infarction (AMI). There were 1 305 volunteers included finally. Among them,the mean hs-cTnT level of male was 4.3 (3.2-5.9) ng/L,which was significantly higher than that of female 3.0 (3.0-3.1) ng/L ( P <0.01) . The correlation coefficient between age and hs-cTnT level was 0.43 (male) and 0.29 (female),and the P -value was less than 0.01. The 99th percentile values of male were 10.8 ng/L,15.4 ng/L and 19.7 ng/L for <45 yr.,45-<60 yr. and ≥60 yr.,respectively. Those values of female were 4.6 ng/L,8.9 ng/L,18.8 ng/L,respectively. There was no difference in sensitivity and specificity between the value we figured out and manufactures provided (14.0 ng/L) for those<60 yr.. For the patients ≥60 yr.,the sensitivity and negative predictive value did not show diversity ( P >0.05) but the specificity and positive predictive value showed significant difference (male: 0.67 vs. 0.56 and 0.83 vs. 0.79, P <0.05;female:0.75 vs. 0.68 and 0.74 vs. 0.69, P <0.05). We recommends that the ninety-ninth percentile reference value of patients<60 yr. should be 14.0 ng/L,while 20.0 ng/L for those patients≥60 yr.

Age-dependent systemic DNA damage in early Type 2 Diabetes mellitus.

PubMed

Rogulj, Dinko; El Aklouk, Ismail; Konjevoda, Paško; Ljubić, Spomenka; Pibernik Okanović, Mirjana; Barbir, Ante; Luburić, Marijana; Radman, Maja; Budinski, Ninoslav; Vučić Lovrenčić, Marijana

2017-01-01

Oxidative stress, capable of eliciting damage to various biomolecules including DNA, is a recognized component of diabetes mellitus and its complications. Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is associated with the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), as well as other unfavorable outcomes. The aim of this study was to elucidate the role of oxidative stress in the development of T2DM, by investigating association of oxidative DNA damage with metabolic parameters in subjects with MetS and early T2DM. Selected anthropometric and biochemical parameters of MetS, inflammation and oxidative DNA damage: body mass index (BMI), fatty liver index (FLI), waist circumference (WC), total cholesterol, HDL and LDL-cholesterol, gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT), uric acid, C-reactive protein (CRP), total leukocyte/neutrophil count, and urinary 8-hidroxy-deoxyguanosine (u-8-OHdG) were assessed in male subjects with MetS and both younger (≤55 years) and older (>55 years) subjects with T2DM of short duration without complications. BMI, FLI, WC, total and LDL-cholesterol and uric acid were higher, while the u-8-OHdG was lower in MetS group, when compared to older T2DM subjects. None of these parameters were different neither between MetS and younger T2DM, nor between two sub-groups of subjects with T2DM. Values of CRP, HDL-cholesterol, triglycerides, GGT, leukocytes and neutrophils were not different between all examined groups of subjects. Higher 8-OHdG in older subjects with T2DM suggests that both aging process and diabetes could contribute to the development of DNA damage. Oxidative DNA damage cannot serve as an universal early marker of T2DM.

Thermoelectric properties of SnSe2 monolayer.

PubMed

Li, Guanpeng; Ding, Guangqian; Gao, Guoying

2017-01-11

The 2H (MoS 2 -type) phase of 2D transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs) has been extensively studied and exhibits excellent electronic and optoelectronic properties, but the high phonon thermal conductivity is detrimental to the thermoelectric performances. Here, we use first-principles methods combined with Boltzmann transport theory to calculate the electronic and phononic transport properties of 1T (CdI 2 -type) SnSe 2 monolayer, a recently realized 2D metal dichalcogenide semiconductor. The calculated band gap is 0.85 eV, which is a little larger than the bulk value. Lower phonon thermal conductivity and higher power factor are obtained in 1T-SnSe 2 monolayer compared to 2H-TMDCs monolayers. The low phonon thermal conductivity (3.27 W mK -1 at room temperature) is mainly due to the low phonon frequency of acoustic modes and the coupling of acoustic modes with optical modes. We also find that the p-type has better thermoelectric performance than the n-type, and the figure of merit within p-type can reach 0.94 at 600 K for 1T-SnSe 2 monolayer, which is higher than those of most 2H-TMDCs monolayers, making 1T-SnSe 2 monolayer a promising candidate for thermoelectric applications.

Polymorphism of the Transcription Factor 7-Like 2 Gene (TCF7L2) Interacts with Obesity on Type-2 Diabetes in the PREDIMED Study Emphasizing the Heterogeneity of Genetic Variants in Type-2 Diabetes Risk Prediction: Time for Obesity-Specific Genetic Risk Scores.

PubMed

Corella, Dolores; Coltell, Oscar; Sorlí, Jose V; Estruch, Ramón; Quiles, Laura; Martínez-González, Miguel Ángel; Salas-Salvadó, Jordi; Castañer, Olga; Arós, Fernando; Ortega-Calvo, Manuel; Serra-Majem, Lluís; Gómez-Gracia, Enrique; Portolés, Olga; Fiol, Miquel; Díez Espino, Javier; Basora, Josep; Fitó, Montserrat; Ros, Emilio; Ordovás, José M

2016-12-06

Nutrigenetic studies analyzing gene-diet interactions of the TCF7L2-rs7903146 C > T polymorphism on type-2 diabetes (T2D) have shown controversial results. A reason contributing to this may be the additional modulation by obesity. Moreover, TCF7L2-rs7903146 is one of the most influential variants in T2D-genetic risk scores (GRS). Therefore, to increase the predictive value (PV) of GRS it is necessary to first see whether the included polymorphisms have heterogeneous effects. We comprehensively investigated gene-obesity interactions between the TCF7L2-rs7903146 C > T polymorphism on T2D (prevalence and incidence) and analyzed other T2D-polymorphisms in a sub-sample. We studied 7018 PREDIMED participants at baseline and longitudinally (8.7 years maximum follow-up). Obesity significantly interacted with the TCF7L2-rs7903146 on T2D prevalence, associations being greater in non-obese subjects. Accordingly, we prospectively observed in non-T2D subjects ( n = 3607) that its association with T2D incidence was stronger in non-obese (HR: 1.81; 95% CI: 1.13-2.92, p = 0.013 for TT versus CC) than in obese subjects (HR: 1.01; 95% CI: 0.61-1.66; p = 0.979; p -interaction = 0.048). Accordingly, TCF7L2-PV was higher in non-obese subjects. Additionally, we created obesity-specific GRS with ten T2D-polymorphisms and demonstrated for the first time their higher strata-specific PV. In conclusion, we provide strong evidence supporting the need for considering obesity when analyzing the TCF7L2 effects and propose the use of obesity-specific GRS for T2D.

Validation of a personal fluid loss monitor.

PubMed

Wickwire, J; Bishop, P A; Green, J M; Richardson, M T; Lomax, R G; Casaru, C; Jones, E; Curtner-Smith, M

2008-02-01

Dehydration raises heat injury risk and reduces performance [ , , ]. The purpose was to validate the Hydra-Alert Jr (Acumen). The Hydra-Alert was tested in two exercise/clothing conditions. Participants wore it while wearing exercise clothing and exercising at a self-selected intensity (n = 8). Others wore the Hydra-Alert while wearing a ballistic-vest and performing an industrial-protocol (n = 8). For each condition, the Hydra-Alert was tested on two occasions (T1 and T2). The Hydra-Alert was tested against nude weight loss for both conditions. The Hydra-Alert had low test-retest reliability for both conditions (average absolute value of the error between Hydra-Alert outputs of T1 and T2 = 0.08 +/- 0.08 percentage points). With exercise-clothing, the Hydra-Alert evidenced low-moderate correlations between percent nude weight loss and Hydra-Alert output at 20 min (r = 0.59-T1, p = 0.13; r = 0.12-T2, p = 0.78), at 40 min (r = 0.93-T1, p = 0.001; r = 0.63-T2, p = 0.10), and at approximately 2 % weight loss (r = 0.21-T1 and T2, p = 0.61 and 0.62, respectively). The correlation at 40 min during T1 fell during T2 suggesting the Hydra-Alert was inconsistent. When wearing a ballistic-vest, the Hydra-Alert had poor validity (T1: r = - 0.29 [p = 0.48] for weight loss vs. monitor; T2: r = 0.11 [p = 0.80]). At the higher levels of dehydration ( approximately 2 %), the Hydra-Alert error was so high as to render its readings of little value. In some cases, the Hydra-Alert could lead to a false level of security if dehydrated. Therefore, the Hydra-Alert is of little use for those who want to measure their fluid loss while exercising in the heat.

Carbon isotopic compositions of organic matter across continental Cretaceous-Tertiary (K-T) boundary sections: Implications for paleoenvironment after the K-T impact event

USGS Publications Warehouse

Maruoka, T.; Koeberl, C.; Bohor, B.F.

2007-01-01

To assess the environmental perturbation induced by the impact event that marks the Cretaceous-Tertiary (K-T) boundary, concentrations and isotopic compositions of bulk organic carbon were determined in sedimentary rocks that span the terrestrial K-T boundary at Dogie Creek, Montana, and Brownie Butte, Wyoming in the Western Interior of the United States. The boundary clays at both sites are not bounded by coals. Although coals consist mainly of organic matter derived from plant tissue, siliceous sedimentary rocks, such as shale and clay, may contain organic matter derived from microbiota as well as plants. Coals record ??13C values of plant-derived organic matter, reflecting the ??13C value of atmospheric CO2, whereas siliceous sedimentary rocks record the ??13C values of organic matter derived from plants and microbiota. The microbiota ??13C value reflects not only the ??13C value of atmospheric CO2, but also biological productivity. Therefore, the siliceous rocks from these sites yields information that differs from that obtained previously from coal beds. Across the freshwater K-T boundary at Brownie Butte, the ??13C values decrease by 2.6??? (from - 26.15??? below the boundary clay to - 28.78??? above the boundary clay), similar to the trend in carbonate at marine K-T sites. This means that the organic ??13C values reflect the variation of ??13C of atmospheric CO2, which is in equilibrium with carbon isotopes at the ocean surface. Although a decrease in ??13C values is observed across the K-T boundary at Dogie Creek (from - 25.32??? below the boundary clay to - 26.11??? above the boundary clay), the degree of ??13C-decrease at Dogie Creek is smaller than that at Brownie Butte and that for marine carbonate. About 2??? decrease in ??13C of atmospheric CO2 was expected from the ??13C variation of marine carbonate at the K-T boundary. This ??13C-decrease of atmospheric CO2 should affect the ??13C values of organic matter derived from plant tissue. As such a decrease in ??13C value was not observed at Dogie Creek, a process that compensates the ??13C-decrease of atmospheric CO2 should be involved. For example, the enhanced contribution of 13C-enriched organic matter derived from algae in a high-productivity environment could be responsible. The ??13C values of algal organic matter become higher than, and thus distinguishable from, those of plant organic matter in situations with high productivity, where dissolved HCO3- becomes an important carbon source, as well as dissolved CO2. As the ??13C-decrease of atmospheric CO2 reflected a reduction of marine productivity, the compensation of the ??13C decrease by the enhanced activity of the terrestrial microbiota means that the microbiota at freshwater environment recovered more rapidly than those in the marine environment. A distinct positive ??13C excursion of 2??? in the K-T boundary clays is superimposed on the overall decreasing trend at Dogie Creek; this coincides with an increase in the content of organic carbon. We conclude that the K-T boundary clays include 13C-enriched organic matter derived from highly productive algae. Such a high biological productivity was induced by phenomena resulting from the K-T impact, such as nitrogen fertilization and/or eutrophication induced by enhanced sulfide formation. The high productivity recorded in the K-T boundary clays means that the freshwater environments (in contrast to marine environments) recovered rapidly enough to almost immediately (within 10??yr) respond to the impact-related environmental perturbations. ?? 2006 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Comparison of Glomerular Filtration Rate Estimation from Serum Creatinine and Cystatin C in HNF1A-MODY and Other Types of Diabetes.

PubMed

Szopa, Magdalena; Kapusta, Maria; Matejko, Bartlomiej; Klupa, Tomasz; Koblik, Teresa; Kiec-Wilk, Beata; Borowiec, Maciej; Malecki, Maciej T

2015-01-01

We previously showed that in HNF1A-MODY the cystatin C-based glomerular filtration rate (GFR) estimate is higher than the creatinine-based estimate. Currently, we aimed to replicate this finding and verify its clinical significance. The study included 72 patients with HNF1A-MODY, 72 with GCK-MODY, 53 with type 1 diabetes (T1DM), 70 with type 2 diabetes (T2DM), and 65 controls. Serum creatinine and cystatin C levels were measured. GFR was calculated from creatinine and cystatin C using the CKD-EPI creatinine equation (eGRF-cr) and CKD-EPI cystatin C equation (eGFR-cys), respectively. Cystatin C levels were lower (p < 0.001) in the control (0.70 ± 0.13 mg/L), HNF1A (0.75 ± 0.21), and GCK (0.72 ± 0.16 mg/L) groups in comparison to those with either T1DM (0.87 ± 0.15 mg/L) or T2DM (0.9 ± 0.23 mg/L). Moreover, eGFR-cys was higher than eGRF-cr in HNF1A-MODY, GCK-MODY, and the controls (p = 0.004; p = 0.003; p < 0.0001). This corresponded to 8.9 mL/min/1.73 m2, 9.7 mL/min/1.73 m2, and 16.9 mL/min/1.73 m2 of difference. Additionally, T1DM patients had higher eGFR-cr than eGFR-cys (11.6 mL/min/1.73 m(2); p = 0.0004); no difference occurred in T2DM (p = 0.91). We confirmed that eGFR-cys values in HNF1A-MODY patients are higher compared to eGFR-cr. Some other differences were also described in diabetic groups. However, none of them appears to be clinically relevant.

The morphology and electromagnetic properties of MnO 2 obtained in 8 T high magnetic field

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jia, Zhang; Yuping, Duan; Hui, Jing; Xiaogang, Li; Shunhua, Liu

2010-09-01

MnO 2 powder was synthesized in a high magnetic field (8 T) via a simple route, and the formation mechanism for the grain shape was discussed. The synthesized samples were characterized by XRD, SEM, TEM, and vector network analysis. The morphology of synthesized MnO 2 was sea urchin-like ball chain with a low density center, just like "hollow-like". Throughout the whole frequency range, the dielectric constant and the loss tangent clearly decreased in 8 T high magnetic field. Moreover, the magnetic permeability and the loss tangent increased slightly in the frequency range 2-13 GHz. Furthermore, the theoretically calculated values of reflection loss showed that when the magnetic field strength 8 T was adopted, the absorption peak became smoother and shifted to a higher frequency.

The study of glass transition temperature in Sb-V2O5-TeO2 glasses at different heating rates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Souri, Dariush

2015-12-01

The glass transition of xSb-(60 - x)V2O5-40TeO2 glasses with 0 < x <15 (in mol%) at different heating rates ( φ = 3-12 K/min) has been studied using differential scanning calorimetry. The glass transition temperature ( T g) and crystallization temperature ( T cr) of these glasses have been determined. The effects of the heating rate and the Sb content on T g have been discussed. It has been observed that the transition region shifts to higher temperatures when the measuring time is reduced. The compositional dependence of T g has been determined and so an empirical equation has been deduced relating the glass transition temperature with the Sb concentration. Also, the value of glass-forming tendency has been studied for the present glasses.

Perioperative pharmacokinetics of ibuprofen enantiomers after rectal administration.

PubMed

Kyllönen, Matti; Olkkola, Klaus T; Seppälä, Timo; Ryhänen, Pauli

2005-07-01

Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug which has both peripheral and central analgesic effects. Ibuprofen has been shown to be an effective antipyretic and postoperative analgesic drug both in adults and children with few side effects. Pharmacokinetics of rectal ibuprofen has not been studied, although suppositories are frequently used for perioperative pain control in children. There were four study groups: full-term infants aged 1-7 weeks (n = 9), infants aged 8-25 weeks (n = 8), and infants aged 26-52 weeks (n = 7). Adult patients were 20-40 years old (n = 7). Ibuprofen suppository 20 mg.kg(-1) was administered after induction of anesthesia. Blood samples were collected from 20 min to 10 h after dosing and pharmacokinetic analysis of ibuprofen enantiomers were done. Both ibuprofen enantiomers were detectable in blood in 20 min. Total ibuprofen plasma concentrations >10 mg.l(-1) were seen from 40 min to 8 h. Values for T(max) of ibuprofen enantiomers and total ibuprofen were higher in the adult group than any of the infant groups (P < 0.05). In addition, values for physiological (standardized) t(1/2) of (R)-(-)- and (S)-(+)-ibuprofen were higher in infants aged 1-7 weeks than the adults (P < 0.05). None of the other pharmacokinetic variables, C(max), AUC, chronological t(1/2) or AUC ratio differed between the groups. A single dose of ibuprofen suppository 20 mg.kg(-1) after induction of anesthesia guarantees analgesic plasma concentrations during the early postoperative period. Except for the delayed absorption of ibuprofen in adults and higher physiological t(1/2) in infants aged 1-7 weeks, no major pharmacokinetic differences were observed between study groups.

Increased R2* in the caudate nucleus of asymptomatic welders

PubMed Central

Lee, Eun-Young; Flynn, Michael R.; Du, Guangwei; Li, Yunqing; Lewis, Mechelle M.; Herring, Amy H.; Van Buren, Eric; Van Buren, Scott; Kong, Lan; Fry, Rebecca C.; Snyder, Amanda M.; Connor, James R.; Yang, Qing X.; Mailman, Richard B.; Huang, Xuemei

2017-01-01

Welding has been associated with neurobehavioral disorders. Welding fumes contain several metals including copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), and iron (Fe) that may interact to influence welding-related neuro-toxicity. Although welding-related airborne Fe levels are about ten-fold higher than Mn, previous studies have focused on Mn and its accumulation in the basal ganglia. This study examined differences in the apparent transverse relaxation rates [R2* (1/T2*), estimate of Fe accumulation] in the basal ganglia (caudate nucleus, putamen, and globus pallidus) between welders and controls, and the dose-response relationship between estimated Fe exposure and R2* values. Occupational questionnaires estimated recent and lifetime Fe exposure, and blood Fe levels and brain MRI were obtained. Complete exposure and MRI R2* and R1 (1/T1: measure to estimate Mn accumulation) data from 42 subjects with welding exposure and 29 controls were analyzed. Welders had significantly greater exposure metrics and higher whole blood Fe levels compared to controls. R2* in the caudate nucleus was significantly higher in welders after controlling for age, body mass index, respirator use, caudate R1, and blood metals of Cu and Mn, whereas there was no difference in R1 values in the basal ganglia between groups. The R2* in the caudate nucleus was positively correlated with whole blood Fe concentration. The present study provides the first evidence of higher R2* in the caudate nucleus of welders, which is suggestive of increased Fe accumulation in this area. Further studies are needed to replicate the findings and determine the neurobehavioral relevance. PMID:27871916

Increased R2* in the Caudate Nucleus of Asymptomatic Welders

PubMed Central

Lee, Eun-Young; Flynn, Michael R.; Du, Guangwei; Li, Yunqing; Lewis, Mechelle M.; Herring, Amy H.; Van Buren, Eric; Van Buren, Scott; Kong, Lan; Fry, Rebecca C.; Snyder, Amanda M.; Connor, James R.; Yang, Qing X.; Mailman, Richard B.; Huang, Xuemei

2016-01-01

Welding has been associated with neurobehavioral disorders. Welding fumes contain several metals including copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), and iron (Fe) that may interact to influence welding-related neurotoxicity. Although welding-related airborne Fe levels are about 10-fold higher than Mn, previous studies have focused on Mn and its accumulation in the basal ganglia. This study examined differences in the apparent transverse relaxation rates [R2* (1/T2*), estimate of Fe accumulation] in the basal ganglia (caudate nucleus, putamen, and globus pallidus) between welders and controls, and the dose–response relationship between estimated Fe exposure and R2* values. Occupational questionnaires estimated recent and lifetime Fe exposure, and blood Fe levels and brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were obtained. Complete exposure and MRI R2* and R1 (1/T1: measure to estimate Mn accumulation) data from 42 subjects with welding exposure and 29 controls were analyzed. Welders had significantly greater exposure metrics and higher whole-blood Fe levels compared with controls. R2* in the caudate nucleus was significantly higher in welders after controlling for age, body mass index, respirator use, caudate R1, and blood metals of Cu and Mn, whereas there was no difference in R1 values in the basal ganglia between groups. The R2* in the caudate nucleus was positively correlated with whole-blood Fe concentration. This study provides the first evidence of higher R2* in the caudate nucleus of welders, which is suggestive of increased Fe accumulation in this area. Further studies are needed to replicate the findings and determine the neurobehavioral relevance. PMID:26769335

Characterization of CD4 and CD8 T Cell Responses in MuSK Myasthenia Gravis

PubMed Central

Yi, JS; Guidon, A; Sparks, S; Osborne, R; Juel, VC; Massey, JM; Sanders, DB; Weinhold, KJ; Guptill, JT

2014-01-01

Muscle specific tyrosine kinase myasthenia gravis (MuSK MG) is a form of autoimmune MG that predominantly affects women and has unique clinical features, including prominent bulbar weakness, muscle atrophy, and excellent response to therapeutic plasma exchange. Patients with MuSK MG have predominantly IgG4 autoantibodies directed against MuSK on the postsynaptic muscle membrane. Lymphocyte functionality has not been reported in this condition. The goal of this study was to characterize T-cell responses in patients with MuSK MG. Intracellular production of IFN-gamma, TNF-alpha, IL-2, IL-17, and IL-21 by CD4+ and CD8+ T-cells was measured by polychromatic flow cytometry in peripheral blood samples from 11 Musk MG patients and 10 healthy controls. Only one MuSK MG patient was not receiving immunosuppressive therapy. Regulatory T-cells (Treg) were also included in our analysis to determine if changes in T cell function were due to altered Treg frequencies. CD8+ T-cells from MuSK MG patients had higher frequencies of polyfunctional responses than controls, and CD4+ T-cells had higher IL-2, TNF-alpha, and IL-17. MuSK MG patients had a higher percentage of CD4+ T-cells producing combinations of IFN-gamma/IL-2/TNF-gamma, TNF-alpha/IL-2, and IFN-gamma/TNF-alpha. Interestingly, Treg numbers and CD39 expression were not different from control values. MuSK MG patients had increased frequencies of Th1 and Th17 cytokines and were primed for polyfunctional proinflammatory responses that cannot be explained by a defect in Treg function or number. PMID:24378287

Thermodynamic data from redox reactions at high temperatures. II. The MnO-0Mn3O4 oxygen buffer, and implications for the thermodynamic properties of MnO and Mn3O4

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

O'Neill, Hugh St. C.; Pownceby, Mark I.

1993-09-01

Theμ _{O_2 } defined by the reaction 6 MnO+O2 =2 Mn3O4 has been determined from 917 to 1,433 K using electrochemical cells (with calcia-stabilized zirconta, CSZ) of the type: MediaObjects/410_2005_BF01046534_f2.tif Steady emfs were achieved rapidly at all temperatures on both increasing and decreasing temperature, indicating that the MnO-Mn3O4 oxygen buffer equilibrates relatively easily. It therefore makes a useful alternative choice in experimental petrology to Fe2O3-Fe3O4 for buffering oxygen potentials at oxidized values. The results are (in J/mol, temperature in K, reference pressure 1 bar);μ _{O_2 } (±200)=-563,241+1,761.758 T-220.490 T in T+0.101819 T 2 with an uncertainty of ±200 J/mol. Third law analysis of these data, including a correction for the deviations in stoichiometry of MnO, implies S 298.15 for Mn3O4 of 166.6 J/K · mol, which is 2.5 J/K · mol higher than the calorimetric determination of Robie and Hemingway (1985). The low value of the calorimetric entropy may be due to incomplete ordering of the magnetic spins. The third law value of Δ r H {298.15/0} is-450.09 kJ/mol, which is significantly different from the calorimetric value of-457.5±3.4 kJ/mol, calculated from Δ f H {298.15/0} of MnO and Mn3O4, implying a small error in one or both of these latter.

Association between Triglyceride to HDL-C Ratio (TG/HDL-C) and Insulin Resistance in Chinese Patients with Newly Diagnosed Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

PubMed Central

Ren, Xingxing; Chen, Zeng.ai; Zheng, Shuang; Han, Tingting; Li, Yangxue; Liu, Wei; Hu, Yaomin

2016-01-01

Objectives To explore the association between the triglyceride to HDL-C ratio (TG/HDL-C) and insulin resistance in Chinese patients with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes mellitus. Methods Patients with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes mellitus (272 men and 288 women) were enrolled and divided into three groups according to TG/HDL-C tertiles. Insulin resistance was defined by homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR). Demographic information and clinical characteristics were obtained. Spearman’s correlation was used to estimate the association between TG/HDL-C and other variables. Multiple logistic regression analyses were adopted to obtain probabilities of insulin resistance. A receiver operating characteristic analysis was conducted to evaluate the ability of TG/HDL-C to discriminate insulin resistance. Results TG/HDL-C was associated with insulin resistance in Chinese patients with newly diagnosed T2DM (Spearman’s correlation coefficient = 0.21, P < 0.01). Patients in the higher tertiles of TG/HDL-C had significantly higher HOMA-IR values than patients in the lower tertiles [T1: 2.68(1.74–3.70); T2: 2.96(2.29–4.56); T3: 3.09(2.30–4.99)]. Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that TG/HDL-C was significantly associated with HOMA-IR, and patients in the higher TG/HDL-C tertile had a higher OR than those in the lower TG/HDL-C tertile, after adjusting for multiple covariates including indices for central obesity [T1: 1; T2: 4.02(1.86–8.71); T3: 4.30(1.99–9.29)]. Following stratification of waist circumference into quartiles, the effect of TG/HDL-C on insulin resistance remained significant irrespective of waist circumference. Conclusions TG/HDL-C was associated with insulin resistance independent of waist circumference. Whether it could be a surrogate marker for insulin resistance in Chinese patients with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes mellitus still needs to be confirmed by more researches. PMID:27115999

Glucose-installed, SPIO-loaded PEG- b-PCL micelles as MR contrast agents to target prostate cancer cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Theerasilp, Man; Sunintaboon, Panya; Sungkarat, Witaya; Nasongkla, Norased

2017-11-01

Polymeric micelles of poly(ethylene glycol)- block-poly(ɛ-caprolactone) bearing glucose analog encapsulated with superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (Glu-SPIO micelles) were synthesized as an MRI contrast agent to target cancer cells based on high-glucose metabolism. Compared to SPIO micelles (non-targeting SPIO micelles), Glu-SPIO micelles demonstrated higher toxicity to human prostate cancer cell lines (PC-3) at high concentration. Atomic absorption spectroscopy was used to determine the amount of iron in cells. It was found that the iron in cancer cells treated by Glu-SPIO micelles were 27-fold higher than cancer cells treated by SPIO micelles at the iron concentration of 25 ppm and fivefold at the iron concentration of 100 ppm. To implement Glu-SPIO micelles as a MR contrast agent, the 3-T clinical MRI was applied to determine transverse relaxivities ( r 2*) and relaxation rate (1/ T 2*) values. In vitro MRI showed different MRI signal from cancer cells after cellular uptake of SPIO micelles and Glu-SPIO micelles. Glu-SPIO micelles was highly sensitive with the r 2* in agarose gel at 155 mM-1 s-1. Moreover, the higher 1/ T 2* value was found for cancer cells treated with Glu-SPIO micelles. These results supported that glucose ligand increased the cellular uptake of micelles by PC-3 cells with over-expressing glucose transporter on the cell membrane. Thus, glucose can be used as a small molecule ligand for targeting prostate cancer cells overexpressing glucose transporter.

Inhibitory effects of different forms of tocopherols, tocopherol phosphates, and tocopherol quinones on growth of colon cancer cells.

PubMed

Dolfi, Sonia C; Yang, Zhihong; Lee, Mao-Jung; Guan, Fei; Hong, Jungil; Yang, Chung S

2013-09-11

Tocopherols are the major source of dietary vitamin E. In this study, the growth inhibitory effects of different forms of tocopherols (T), tocopheryl phosphates (TP), and tocopherol quinones (TQ) on human colon cancer HCT116 and HT29 cells were investigated. δ-T was more active than γ-T in inhibiting colon cancer cell growth, decreasing cancer cell colony formation, and inducing apoptosis; however, α-T was rather ineffective. Similarly, the rate of cellular uptake also followed the ranking order δ-T > γ-T ≫ α-T. TP and TQ generally had higher inhibitory activities than their parent compounds. Interestingly, the γ forms of TP and TQ were more active than the δ forms in inhibiting cancer cell growth, whereas the α forms were the least effective. The potencies of γ-TQ and δ-TQ (showing IC50 values of ∼0.8 and ∼2 μM on HCT116 cells after a 72 h incubation, respectively) were greater than 100-fold and greater than 20-fold higher, respectively, than those of their parent tocopherols. Induction of cancer cell apoptosis by δ-T, γ-TP, and γ-TQ was characterized by the cleavage of caspase 3 and PARP1 and DNA fragmentation. These studies demonstrated the higher growth inhibitory activity of δ-T than γ-T, the even higher activities of the γ forms of TP and TQ, and the ineffectiveness of the α forms of tocopherol and their metabolites against colon cancer cells.

High-resolution 3D-constructive interference in steady-state MR imaging and 3D time-of-flight MR angiography in neurovascular compression: a comparison between 3T and 1.5T.

PubMed

Garcia, M; Naraghi, R; Zumbrunn, T; Rösch, J; Hastreiter, P; Dörfler, A

2012-08-01

High-resolution MR imaging is useful for diagnosis and preoperative planning in patients with NVC. Because high-field MR imaging promises higher SNR and resolution, the aim of this study was to determine the value of high-resolution 3D-CISS and 3D-TOF MRA at 3T compared with 1.5T in patients with NVC. Forty-seven patients with NVC, trigeminal neuralgia, hemifacial spasm, and glossopharyngeal neuralgia were examined at 1.5T and 3T, including high-resolution 3D-CISS and 3D-TOF MRA sequences. Delineation of anatomic structures, overall image quality, severity of artifacts, visibility of NVC, and assessment of the SNR and CNR were compared between field strengths. SNR and CNR were significantly higher at 3T (P < .001). Significantly better anatomic conspicuity, including delineation of CNs, nerve branches, and assessment of small vessels, was obtained at 3T (P < .02). Severity of artifacts was significantly lower at 3T (P < .001). Consequently, overall image quality was significantly higher at 3T. NVC was significantly better delineated at 3T (P < .001). Six patients in whom NVC was not with certainty identifiable at 1.5T were correctly diagnosed at 3T. Patients with NVC may benefit from the higher resolution and greater sensitivity of 3T for preoperative assessment of NVC, and 3T may be of particular value when 1.5T is equivocal.

Fucoidan cytotoxicity against human breast cancer T47D cell line increases with higher level of sulfate ester group

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saepudin, Endang; Alfita Qosthalani, Fildzah; Sinurat, Ellya

2018-01-01

The anticancer activity of different sulfate ester group content in different molecular weight was examined. The anticancer activity was achieved in vitro on human breast cancer T47D cell line. Fucoidan with lower molecular weight (5.79 kDa) tends to have lower sulfate ester group content (8.69%) and resulted in higher IC50 value (184.22 μg/mL). While fucoidan with higher molecular weight (785.12 kDa) tends to have higher sulfate level (18.63%) and achieved lower IC50 value (75.69 μg/mL). The result showed that in order to maintain fucoidan cytotoxic activity against human breast cancer T47D cell line, the sulfate content should be remain high. Keywords: fucoidan, sulfate ester group, human breast cancer

Correlation of Meniscal T2* with Multiphoton Microscopy, and Change of Articular Cartilage T2 in an Ovine Model of Meniscal Repair

PubMed Central

Koff, Matthew F.; Shah, Parina; Pownder, Sarah; Romero, Bethsabe; Williams, Rebecca; Gilbert, Susannah; Maher, Suzanne; Fortier, Lisa A.; Rodeo, Scott A.; Potter, Hollis G.

2013-01-01

Objective To correlate meniscal T2* relaxation times using ultra-short echo time (UTE) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with quantitative microscopic methods, and to determine the effect of meniscal repair on post-operative cartilage T2 values. Design A medial meniscal tear was created and repaired in the anterior horn of one limb of 28 crossbred mature ewes. MR scans for morphological evaluation, meniscal T2* values, and cartilage T2 values were acquired at 0, 4 and 8 months post-operatively for the Tear and Non-Op limb. Samples of menisci from both limbs were analyzed using multiphoton microscopy (MPM) analysis and biomechanical testing. Results Significantly prolonged meniscal T2* values were found in repaired limbs than in control limbs, p<0.0001. No regional differences of T2* were detected for either the repaired or control limbs in the anterior horn. Repaired limbs had prolonged cartilage T2 values, primarily anteriorly, and tended to have lower biomechanical force to failure at 8 months than Non-Op limbs. MPM autofluorescence and second harmonic generation data correlated with T2* values at 8 months (ρ=−0.48, p=0.06). Conclusions T2* mapping is sensitive to detecting temporal and zonal differences of meniscal structure and composition. Meniscal MPM and cartilage T2 values indicate changes in tissue integrity in the presence of meniscal repair. PMID:23680878

Assessment of Air Quality in the International Space Station (ISS) and Space Shuttle Based on Samples Returned Aboard STS-ll1 (UF2) in June 2002

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

James, John T.

2003-01-01

The toxicological assessments of grab sample canisters (GSCs) and 2 solid sorbent air samplers (SSASs) returned aboard STS-111 are reported. Analytical methods have not changed from earlier reports. Surrogate standard recoveries from the GSCs were 86-106% and 62% to 136 % from the SSASs; 2 tubes with low surrogate recoveries were not reported. Pressure tracking indicated no leaks in the canisters during analysis. Recoveries from lab and trip controls for formaldehyde analyses ranged from 87 to 96%. The two general criteria used to assess air quality are the total-non-methane-volatile organic hydrocarbons (NMVOCs) and the total T-value (minus the CO2 and formaldehyde contributions). Because of the inertness of Freon 218 (octafluoropropane, OFP), Its contribution to the NMVOC is subtracted and tabulated separately. Control of atmospheric alcohols is important to the water recovery system engineers, hence total alcohols (including acetone) are also shown for each sample. Because formaldehyde is quantified from sorbent badges, its concentration is listed separately. The table shows that the air quality in general was acceptable for crew respiration; however, certain values shown in bold require further explanation. The 1.05 T value on 2/28/02 was caused by an unusually high measurement ofhexamethylcyc1otrisiloxane (T value = 0.50), which is not a concern. The MPLM T value of 1.42 and the alcohol level of 7.5 mg/cu m were due to an overall polluted atmosphere, which was expected at first entry. The major T-value component was carbon monoxide at a contribution of 0.44 units. Since the crew was only exposed momentarily to the polluted atmosphere, no health effects are expected. The formaldehyde value of 0.060 mg/cu m found in the Lab sample from 3/27/02 is cause for concern because the Lab consistently shows higher concentrations of formaldehyde than the SM and occasionally the concentrations are above the acceptable guideline. Levels of OFP have remained low, suggesting that no further leaks of the SM air conditioner have occurred.

Early evaluation of radiation-induced parotid damage in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma by T2 mapping and mDIXON Quant imaging: initial findings.

PubMed

Zhou, Nan; Chu, Chen; Dou, Xin; Chen, Weibo; He, Jian; Yan, Jing; Zhou, Zhengyang; Yang, Xiaofeng

2018-02-08

Radiation-induced parotid damage is a common complication in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) treated with radiotherapy to head and neck region, which severely reduce the life quality of those patients. The aim of this study was to early evaluate the changes of irradiated parotid glands with T2 mapping and mDIXON Quant imaging. Forty-one patients with NPC underwent conventional magnetic resonance imaging for nasopharynx and neck, and T2 mapping and mDIXON Quant imaging for bilateral parotid glands within 2 weeks before radiotherapy (pre-RT), 5 weeks after the beginning of radiotherapy (mid-RT), and 4 weeks after radiotherapy (post-RT). Parotid volume, T2 values, fat fraction (FF) values, and mean radiation dose were recorded and analyzed. From pre-RT to mid-RT, parotid volume decreased (atrophy rate, 27.0 ± 11.5%), while parotid T2 and FF values increased (change rate, 6.0 ± 6.2% for T2 value and 9.1 ± 9.9% for FF value) significantly. From mid-RT to post-RT, parotid T2 value continuously increased (change rate, 4.6 ± 7.7%), but parotid FF value decreased (change rate, - 9.9 ± 18.2%) significantly. Change rate of parotid T2 value significantly correlated with parotid atrophy rate from pre-RT to post-RT (r = 0.313, P = 0.027). Multiple linear regression analysis showed that parotid T2 value (standardized coefficient [SC] = - 0.259, P = 0.001) and FF value (SC = - 0.320, P = 0.014) negatively correlated with parotid volume, while parotid T2 value positively correlated with MR scan time point (SC = 0.476, P = 0.001) significantly. Parotid T2 and FF values showed excellent reproducibility (intraclass correlation coefficient, 0.935-0.992). T2 mapping and mDIXON Quant imaging is useful for noninvasive evaluation of radiation-induced parotid damage.

Quasi-Phase Diagrams at Air/Oil Interfaces and Bulk Oil Phases for Crystallization of Small-Molecular Semiconductors by Adjusting Gibbs Adsorption.

PubMed

Watanabe, Satoshi; Ohta, Takahisa; Urata, Ryota; Sato, Tetsuya; Takaishi, Kazuto; Uchiyama, Masanobu; Aoyama, Tetsuya; Kunitake, Masashi

2017-09-12

The temperature and concentration dependencies of the crystallization of two small-molecular semiconductors were clarified by constructing quasi-phase diagrams at air/oil interfaces and in bulk oil phases. A quinoidal quaterthiophene derivative with four alkyl chains (QQT(CN)4) in 1,1,2,2-tetrachroloethane (TCE) and a thienoacene derivative with two alkyl chains (C8-BTBT) in o-dichlorobenzene were used. The apparent crystal nucleation temperature (T n ) and dissolution temperature (T d ) of the molecules were determined based on optical microscopy examination in closed glass capillaries and open dishes during slow cooling and heating processes, respectively. T n and T d were considered estimates of the critical temperatures for nuclear formation and crystal growth, respectively. The T n values of QQT(CN)4 and C8-BTBT at the air/oil interfaces were higher than those in the bulk oil phases, whereas the T d values at the air/oil interfaces were almost the same as those in the bulk oil phases. These Gibbs adsorption phenomena were attributed to the solvophobic effect of the alkyl chain moieties. The temperature range between T n and T d corresponds to suitable supercooling conditions for ideal crystal growth based on the suppression of nucleation. The T n values at the water/oil and oil/glass interfaces did not shift compared with those of the bulk phases, indicating that adsorption did not occur at the hydrophilic interfaces. Promotion and inhibition of nuclear formation for crystal growth of the semiconductors were achieved at the air/oil and hydrophilic interfaces, respectively.

Comparison of annual variability in HbA1c and glycated albumin in patients with type 1 vs. type 2 diabetes mellitus.

PubMed

Koga, Masafumi; Murai, Jun; Morita, Shinya; Saito, Hiroshi; Kasayama, Soji

2013-01-01

It has been suggested that plasma glucose (PG) levels per se and long-term variations in PG levels are associated with diabetic vascular complications. Glycated albumin (GA) reflects shorter-term glycemic control, as well as postprandial PG levels, as compared to HbA1c. In this study, we hypothesized that GA more strongly reflects long-term variations in PG levels than HbA1c, and compared the variability of HbA1c and that of GA in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). This study included 8 T1DM patients and 48 T2DM patients. Over a 1-year period, HbA1c and GA were measured every month and the mean values and coefficients of variation (CV) for each patient were calculated. In both T1DM and T2DM patients, the CV of GA was significantly higher than the CV of HbA1c. Both the CV of HbA1c and the CV of GA were significantly higher in the T1DM patients than in the T2DM patients. The annual variability in GA was greater than that in HbA1c. In addition, the annual variability in HbA1c and that in GA in the T1DM patients were greater than in the T2DM patients. Our findings suggest that GA more accurately reflects long-term variations in PG levels than HbA1c. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Use of the Diabetes Prevention Trial-Type 1 Risk Score (DPTRS) for improving the accuracy of the risk classification of type 1 diabetes.

PubMed

Sosenko, Jay M; Skyler, Jay S; Mahon, Jeffrey; Krischer, Jeffrey P; Greenbaum, Carla J; Rafkin, Lisa E; Beam, Craig A; Boulware, David C; Matheson, Della; Cuthbertson, David; Herold, Kevan C; Eisenbarth, George; Palmer, Jerry P

2014-04-01

OBJECTIVE We studied the utility of the Diabetes Prevention Trial-Type 1 Risk Score (DPTRS) for improving the accuracy of type 1 diabetes (T1D) risk classification in TrialNet Natural History Study (TNNHS) participants. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS The cumulative incidence of T1D was compared between normoglycemic individuals with DPTRS values >7.00 and dysglycemic individuals in the TNNHS (n = 991). It was also compared between individuals with DPTRS values <7.00 or >7.00 among those with dysglycemia and those with multiple autoantibodies in the TNNHS. DPTRS values >7.00 were compared with dysglycemia for characterizing risk in Diabetes Prevention Trial-Type 1 (DPT-1) (n = 670) and TNNHS participants. The reliability of DPTRS values >7.00 was compared with dysglycemia in the TNNHS. RESULTS The cumulative incidence of T1D for normoglycemic TNNHS participants with DPTRS values >7.00 was comparable to those with dysglycemia. Among those with dysglycemia, the cumulative incidence was much higher (P < 0.001) for those with DPTRS values >7.00 than for those with values <7.00 (3-year risks: 0.16 for <7.00 and 0.46 for >7.00). Dysglycemic individuals in DPT-1 were at much higher risk for T1D than those with dysglycemia in the TNNHS (P < 0.001); there was no significant difference in risk between the studies among those with DPTRS values >7.00. The proportion in the TNNHS reverting from dysglycemia to normoglycemia at the next visit was higher than the proportion reverting from DPTRS values >7.00 to values <7.00 (36 vs. 23%). CONCLUSIONS DPTRS thresholds can improve T1D risk classification accuracy by identifying high-risk normoglycemic and low-risk dysglycemic individuals. The 7.00 DPTRS threshold characterizes risk more consistently between populations and has greater reliability than dysglycemia.

Changes of migraine-related white matter hyperintensities after 3 years: a longitudinal MRI study.

PubMed

Erdélyi-Bótor, Szilvia; Aradi, Mihály; Kamson, David Olayinka; Kovács, Norbert; Perlaki, Gábor; Orsi, Gergely; Nagy, Szilvia Anett; Schwarcz, Attila; Dóczi, Tamás; Komoly, Sámuel; Deli, Gabriella; Trauninger, Anita; Pfund, Zoltán

2015-01-01

The aim of this longitudinal study was to investigate changes of migraine-related brain white matter hyperintensities 3 years after an initial study. Baseline quantitative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies of migraine patients with hemispheric white matter hyperintensities performed in 2009 demonstrated signs of tissue damage within the hyperintensities. The hyperintensities appeared most frequently in the deep white matter of the frontal lobe with a similar average hyperintensity size in all hemispheric lobes. Since in this patient group the repeated migraine attacks were the only known risk factors for the development of white matter hyperintensities, the remeasurements of migraineurs after a 3-year long follow-up may show changes in the status of these structural abnormalities as the effects of the repeated headaches. The same patient group was reinvestigated in 2012 using the same MRI scanner and acquisition protocol. MR measurements were performed on a 3.0-Tesla clinical MRI scanner. Beyond the routine T1-, T2-weighted, and fluid-attenuated inversion recovery imaging, diffusion and perfusion-weighted imaging, proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and T1 and T2 relaxation time measurements were also performed. Findings of the baseline and follow-up studies were compared with each other. The follow-up proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy studies of white matter hyperintensities showed significantly decreased N-acetyl-aspartate (median values 8.133 vs 7.153 mmol/L, P=.009) and creatine/phosphocreatine (median values 4.970 vs 4.641 mmol/L, P=.015) concentrations compared to the baseline, indicating a more severe axonal loss and glial hypocellularity with decreased intracellular energy production. The diffusion values, the T1 and T2 relaxation times, and the cerebral blood flow and volume measurements presented only mild changes between the studies. The number (median values 21 vs 25, P<.001) and volume (median values 0.896 vs 1.140 mL, P<.001) of hyperintensities were significantly higher in the follow-up study. No changes were found in the hemispheric and lobar distribution of hyperintensities. An increase in the hyperintensity size of preexisting lesions was much more common than a decrease (median values 14 vs 5, P=.004). A higher number of newly developed hyperintensities were detected than disappeared ones (130 vs 22), and most of them were small (<.034 mL). Small white matter hyperintensities in patients with a low migraine attack frequency had a higher chance to disappear than large white matter hyperintensities or white matter hyperintensities in patients with a high attack frequency (coefficient: -0.517, P=.034). This longitudinal MRI study found clinically silent brain white matter hyperintensities to be predominantly progressive in nature. The absence of a control group precludes definitive conclusions about the nature of these changes or if their degree is beyond normal aging. © 2014 American Headache Society.

The effects of ILLLI on peripheral blood T lymphocytes subpopulation & NK cells in psoriasis treatment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhu, Jing; Nie, Fan

2005-07-01

Objective: To research the effects of Intravascular low level laser irradiation (ILLLI) on the immulogic function of cells in treatment of psoriasis. Method: 49 patients suffered from psoriasis were treated by Intravascular low level laser irradiation (laser output power: 4-5mw, 1 hour per day, a course of treatment is 10 days). We checked the function of T lymphocyte subgroup and NK cell in peripheral blood between pre and post treatment. Results: 1.The mean value of CD3+ in post treatment is higher. P<0.05. Significant difference is showed between pre and post treatment 2. The mean value of CD4+ in post treatment dropped slightly while the mean value of CD4/CD8, NK cell in post treatment increased little, nearly approach the mean value of natural person. 3.The mean value of CD4+,CD8+,NK cell which is under 30% increased the percent obviously after the treatment; The mean value of CD4+,CD8+ u higher than 30% obviously drop the percent, P#0.05 and <0.01. Related statistical analysis showed significant and much significant difference between pre and post treatment. Conclusions: The low level laser irradiation (ILLLI) in treatment of psoriasis has bidirectional ajustive effect which can balance the immulogic function of cell.

Evaluating the association of APOA2 polymorphism with insulin resistance in adolescents.

PubMed

Zaki, Moushira Erfan; Amr, Khalda Sayed; Abdel-Hamid, Mohamed

2014-12-01

265T>C SNP in the APOA-II gene promoter may be associated with obesity risk and insulin resistance (IR). This study aims to analyze the association between the APOA2 - 265T>C SNP and risk for obesity and IR in adolescents. The study was conducted on 500 adolescents. They were 240 obese and 260 non-obese individuals, aged 16-21 years old. Their mean age was 18.25 ± 2.54 years. Variables examined body weight, height, waist circumference (WC), systolic and diastolic blood pressure (BP), body fat percentage (BF%), and abdominal visceral fat layer. Homeostasis Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR) was used as a biomarker for IR. BF% was assessed by body composition analyzer and abdominal visceral fat thickness was determined by ultrasonography. The APOA2 - 265T>C polymorphism genotype was analyzed by PCR amplification of a 273-bp fragment. Genotype frequencies were in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. The frequency of the mutant C allele was significantly higher in obese cases than non-obese cases. After multivariate adjustment, waist, BF%, visceral adipose layer and HOMA-IR were significantly higher in homozygous allele CC carriers than TT + TC carriers. Homozygous individuals for the CC allele had statistically higher values of energy intake, total fat (g/day) and saturated fat (SATFAT) than carriers of the T allele. Homozygous individuals for the C allele had higher obesity risk than carriers of the T allele and had elevated levels of visceral adipose tissue. Moreover, the present study shows that the CC polymorphism is associated with the development of IR [OR 1.89 (1.35-2.91), P = .012] and remains significant after adjusting for gender, age and body mass index.

Utility of early dynamic and delayed post-diuretic 18F-FDG PET/CT SUVmax in predicting tumour grade and T-stage of urinary bladder carcinoma: results from a prospective single centre study.

PubMed

Sharma, Abhishek; Mete, Uttam K; Sood, Ashwani; Kakkar, Nandita; Gorla, Arun K R; Mittal, Bhagwant R

2017-04-01

Accurate pre-treatment grading and staging of bladder cancer are vital for better therapeutic decision and prognosis. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the correlation between maximum standardized uptake value (SUV max ) calculated during early dynamic and post-diuretic fluorine-18 fludeoxyglucose ( 18 F-FDG) positron emission tomography (PET)/CT studies with grade and pT-stage of bladder cancer. 39 patients with suspected/proven bladder carcinoma underwent 10-min early dynamic pelvic imaging and delayed post-diuretic whole-body FDG PET/CT imaging. SUV max of the lesions derived from both studies was compared with grade and pT-stage. Relationship of SUV max with grade and pT-stage was analyzed using independent sample t-test and analysis of variance. SUV max of the early dynamic imaging showing tumour perfusion was independent from the SUV max of delayed imaging. High-grade tumours showed higher SUV max than low-grade tumours in the early dynamic imaging (5.4 ± 1.4 vs 4.7 ± 1.6; p-value 0.144) with statistically significant higher value in Stage pT1 tumours (6.8 ± 0.8 vs 5.5 ± 1.2; p-value 0.04). Non-invasive pTa tumours had significantly less SUV max than higher stage tumours during early dynamic imaging [F(4,29) = 6.860, p 0.001]. Early dynamic imaging may have a role in predicting the grade and aggressiveness of the bladder tumours and thus can help in treatment planning and prognostication. Advances in knowledge: Dynamic PET/CT is a limitedly explored imaging technique. This prospective pilot study demonstrates the utility of this modality as a potential adjunct to standard FDG PET/CT imaging in predicting the grade and aggressiveness of the bladder tumours and thus can impact the patient management.

Increased Trimethylamine N-Oxide Portends High Mortality Risk Independent of Glycemic Control in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus.

PubMed

Tang, W H Wilson; Wang, Zeneng; Li, Xinmin S; Fan, Yiying; Li, Daniel S; Wu, Yuping; Hazen, Stanley L

2017-01-01

Recent studies show a mechanistic link between intestinal microbial metabolism of dietary phosphatidylcholine and coronary artery disease pathogenesis. Concentrations of a proatherogenic gut microbe-generated metabolite, trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO), predict increased incident cardiovascular disease risks in multiple cohorts. TMAO concentrations are increased in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), but their prognostic value and relation to glycemic control are unclear. We examined the relationship between fasting TMAO and 2 of its nutrient precursors, choline and betaine, vs 3-year major adverse cardiac events and 5-year mortality in 1216 stable patients with T2DM who underwent elective diagnostic coronary angiography. TMAO [4.4 μmol/L (interquartile range 2.8-7.7 μmol/L) vs 3.6 (2.3-5.7 μmol/L); P < 0.001] and choline concentrations were higher in individuals with T2DM vs healthy controls. Within T2DM patients, higher plasma TMAO was associated with a significant 3.0-fold increased 3-year major adverse cardiac event risk (P < 0.001) and a 3.6-fold increased 5-year mortality risk (P < 0.001). Following adjustments for traditional risk factors and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, glycohemoglobin, and estimated glomerular filtration rate, increased TMAO concentrations remained predictive of both major adverse cardiac events and mortality risks in T2DM patients [e.g., quartiles 4 vs 1, hazard ratio 2.05 (95% CI, 1.31-3.20), P < 0.001; and 2.07 (95% CI, 1.37-3.14), P < 0.001, respectively]. Fasting plasma concentrations of the proatherogenic gut microbe-generated metabolite TMAO are higher in diabetic patients and portend higher major adverse cardiac events and mortality risks independent of traditional risk factors, renal function, and relationship to glycemic control. © 2016 American Association for Clinical Chemistry.

Dependence of intravoxel incoherent motion diffusion MR threshold b-value selection for separating perfusion and diffusion compartments and liver fibrosis diagnostic performance.

PubMed

Wáng, Yì Xiáng J; Li, Yáo T; Chevallier, Olivier; Huang, Hua; Leung, Jason Chi Shun; Chen, Weitian; Lu, Pu-Xuan

2018-01-01

Background Intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) tissue parameters depend on the threshold b-value. Purpose To explore how threshold b-value impacts PF ( f), D slow ( D), and D fast ( D*) values and their performance for liver fibrosis detection. Material and Methods Fifteen healthy volunteers and 33 hepatitis B patients were included. With a 1.5-T magnetic resonance (MR) scanner and respiration gating, IVIM data were acquired with ten b-values of 10, 20, 40, 60, 80, 100, 150, 200, 400, and 800 s/mm 2 . Signal measurement was performed on the right liver. Segmented-unconstrained analysis was used to compute IVIM parameters and six threshold b-values in the range of 40-200 s/mm 2 were compared. PF, D slow , and D fast values were placed along the x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis, and a plane was defined to separate volunteers from patients. Results Higher threshold b-values were associated with higher PF measurement; while lower threshold b-values led to higher D slow and D fast measurements. The dependence of PF, D slow , and D fast on threshold b-value differed between healthy livers and fibrotic livers; with the healthy livers showing a higher dependence. Threshold b-value = 60 s/mm 2 showed the largest mean distance between healthy liver datapoints vs. fibrotic liver datapoints, and a classification and regression tree showed that a combination of PF (PF < 9.5%), D slow (D slow  < 1.239 × 10 -3 mm 2 /s), and D fast (D fast  < 20.85 × 10 -3 mm 2 /s) differentiated healthy individuals and all individual fibrotic livers with an area under the curve of logistic regression (AUC) of 1. Conclusion For segmented-unconstrained analysis, the selection of threshold b-value = 60 s/mm 2 improves IVIM differentiation between healthy livers and fibrotic livers.

Quantification of Superparamagnetic Iron Oxide (SPIO)-labeled Cells Using MRI

PubMed Central

Rad, Ali M; Arbab, Ali S; Iskander, ASM; Jiang, Quan; Soltanian-Zadeh, Hamid

2015-01-01

Purpose To show the feasibility of using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to quantify superparamagnetic iron oxide (SPIO)-labeled cells. Materials and Methods Lymphocytes and 9L rat gliosarcoma cells were labeled with Ferumoxides-Protamine Sulfate complex (FE-PRO). Cells were labeled efficiently (more than 95%) and iron concentration inside each cell was measured by spectrophotometry (4.77-30.21 picograms). Phantom tubes containing different number of labeled or unlabeled cells as well as different concentrations of FE-PRO were made. In addition, labeled and unlabeled cells were injected into fresh and fixed rat brains. Results Cellular viability and proliferation of labeled and unlabeled cells were shown to be similar. T2-weighted images were acquired using 7 T and 3 T MRI systems and R2 maps of the tubes containing cells, free FE-PRO, and brains were made. There was a strong linear correlation between R2 values and labeled cell numbers but the regression lines were different for the lymphocytes and gliosarcoma cells. Similarly, there was strong correlation between R2 values and free iron. However, free iron had higher R2 values than the labeled cells for the same concentration of iron. Conclusion Our data indicated that in vivo quantification of labeled cells can be done by careful consideration of different factors and specific control groups. PMID:17623892

Canopy position affects the relationships between leaf respiration and associated traits in a tropical rainforest in Far North Queensland.

PubMed

Weerasinghe, Lasantha K; Creek, Danielle; Crous, Kristine Y; Xiang, Shuang; Liddell, Michael J; Turnbull, Matthew H; Atkin, Owen K

2014-06-01

We explored the impact of canopy position on leaf respiration (R) and associated traits in tree and shrub species growing in a lowland tropical rainforest in Far North Queensland, Australia. The range of traits quantified included: leaf R in darkness (RD) and in the light (RL; estimated using the Kok method); the temperature (T)-sensitivity of RD; light-saturated photosynthesis (Asat); leaf dry mass per unit area (LMA); and concentrations of leaf nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), soluble sugars and starch. We found that LMA, and area-based N, P, sugars and starch concentrations were all higher in sun-exposed/upper canopy leaves, compared with their shaded/lower canopy and deep-shade/understory counterparts; similarly, area-based rates of RD, RL and Asat (at 28 °C) were all higher in the upper canopy leaves, indicating higher metabolic capacity in the upper canopy. The extent to which light inhibited R did not differ significantly between upper and lower canopy leaves, with the overall average inhibition being 32% across both canopy levels. Log-log RD-Asat relationships differed between upper and lower canopy leaves, with upper canopy leaves exhibiting higher rates of RD for a given Asat (both on an area and mass basis), as well as higher mass-based rates of RD for a given [N] and [P]. Over the 25-45 °C range, the T-sensitivity of RD was similar in upper and lower canopy leaves, with both canopy positions exhibiting Q10 values near 2.0 (i.e., doubling for every 10 °C rise in T) and Tmax values near 60 °C (i.e., T where RD reached maximal values). Thus, while rates of RD at 28 °C decreased with increasing depth in the canopy, the T-dependence of RD remained constant; these findings have important implications for vegetation-climate models that seek to predict carbon fluxes between tropical lowland rainforests and the atmosphere. © The Author 2014. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Individualized Exercise Training at Maximal Fat Oxidation Combined with Fruit and Vegetable-Rich Diet in Overweight or Obese Women: The LIPOXmax-Réunion Randomized Controlled Trial.

PubMed

Besnier, Florent; Lenclume, Victorine; Gérardin, Patrick; Fianu, Adrian; Martinez, Jérémy; Naty, Nadège; Porcherat, Sylvaine; Boussaid, Karim; Schneebeli, Stéphane; Jarlet, Eric; Hatia, Sarah; Dalleau, Georges; Verkindt, Chantal; Brun, Jean-Frédéric; Gonthier, Marie-Paule; Favier, François

2015-01-01

Lifestyle combined interventions are a key strategy for preventing type-2 diabetes (T2DM) in overweight or obese subjects. In this framework, LIPOXmax individualized training, based on maximal fat oxidation [MFO], may be a promising intervention to promote fat mass (FM) reduction and prevent T2DM. Our primary objective was to compare three training programs of physical activity combined with a fruit- and vegetable-rich diet in reducing FM in overweight or obese women. A five months non-blinded randomized controlled trial (RCT) with three parallel groups in La Réunion Island, a region where metabolic diseases are highly prevalent. One hundred and thirty-six non-diabetic obese (body mass index [BMI]: 27-40 kg/m2) young women (aged 20-40) were randomized (G1: MFO intensity; G2: 60% of VO2-peak intensity; G3: free moderate-intensity at-home exercise following good physical practices). Anthropometry (BMI, bodyweight, FM, fat-free mass), glucose (fasting plasma glucose, insulin, HOMA-IR) and lipid (cholesterol and triglycerides) profiles, and MFO values were measured at month-0, month-3 and month-5. At month-5, among 109 women assessed on body composition, the three groups exhibited a significant FM reduction over time (G1: -4.1±0.54 kg; G2: -4.7±0.53 kg; G3: -3.5±0.78 kg, p<0.001, respectively) without inter-group differences (p = 0.135). All groups exhibited significant reductions in insulin levels or HOMA-IR index, and higher MFO values over time (p<0.001, respectively) but glucose control improvement was higher in G1 than in G3 while MFO values were higher in G1 than in G2 and G3. Changes in other outcome measures and inter-group differences were not significant. In our RCT the LIPOXmax intervention did not show a superiority in reducing FM in overweight or obese women but is associated with higher MFO and better glucose control improvements. Other studies are required before proposing LIPOXmax training for the prevention of T2DM in overweight or obese women. ClincialTrials.gov NCT01464073.

Individualized Exercise Training at Maximal Fat Oxidation Combined with Fruit and Vegetable-Rich Diet in Overweight or Obese Women: The LIPOXmax-Réunion Randomized Controlled Trial

PubMed Central

Besnier, Florent; Lenclume, Victorine; Gérardin, Patrick; Fianu, Adrian; Martinez, Jérémy; Naty, Nadège; Porcherat, Sylvaine; Boussaid, Karim; Schneebeli, Stéphane; Jarlet, Eric; Hatia, Sarah; Dalleau, Georges; Verkindt, Chantal; Brun, Jean-Frédéric; Gonthier, Marie-Paule; Favier, François

2015-01-01

Objectives Lifestyle combined interventions are a key strategy for preventing type-2 diabetes (T2DM) in overweight or obese subjects. In this framework, LIPOXmax individualized training, based on maximal fat oxidation [MFO], may be a promising intervention to promote fat mass (FM) reduction and prevent T2DM. Our primary objective was to compare three training programs of physical activity combined with a fruit- and vegetable-rich diet in reducing FM in overweight or obese women. Design and setting A five months non-blinded randomized controlled trial (RCT) with three parallel groups in La Réunion Island, a region where metabolic diseases are highly prevalent. Subjects One hundred and thirty-six non-diabetic obese (body mass index [BMI]: 27–40 kg/m2) young women (aged 20–40) were randomized (G1: MFO intensity; G2: 60% of VO2-peak intensity; G3: free moderate-intensity at-home exercise following good physical practices). Outcomes Anthropometry (BMI, bodyweight, FM, fat-free mass), glucose (fasting plasma glucose, insulin, HOMA-IR) and lipid (cholesterol and triglycerides) profiles, and MFO values were measured at month-0, month-3 and month-5. Results At month-5, among 109 women assessed on body composition, the three groups exhibited a significant FM reduction over time (G1: -4.1±0.54 kg; G2: -4.7±0.53 kg; G3: -3.5±0.78 kg, p<0.001, respectively) without inter-group differences (p = 0.135). All groups exhibited significant reductions in insulin levels or HOMA-IR index, and higher MFO values over time (p<0.001, respectively) but glucose control improvement was higher in G1 than in G3 while MFO values were higher in G1 than in G2 and G3. Changes in other outcome measures and inter-group differences were not significant. Conclusion In our RCT the LIPOXmax intervention did not show a superiority in reducing FM in overweight or obese women but is associated with higher MFO and better glucose control improvements. Other studies are required before proposing LIPOXmax training for the prevention of T2DM in overweight or obese women. Trial Registration ClincialTrials.gov NCT01464073 PMID:26555595

Early changes in the apparent diffusion coefficient and MMP-9 expression of a cervical carcinoma U14 allograft model following irradiation.

PubMed

Huang, Yecai; Huang, Jianming; Feng, Mei; Ren, Jing; Mi, Kun; Cheng, Jia; Song, Bing; Lang, Jinyi

2017-12-01

A cervical carcinoma allograft model was designed to assess the correlation between early changes in the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values on diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (DW-MRI) and the expression of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) in tumors. BALB/c mice with U14 tumor allografts on the right rear flank were irradiated with a single 20 Gy dose. All tumor-bearing mice were subjected to DW-MRI, followed by calculation of the ADC values and characterization of the T1 and T2 relaxation time constants. Pre- and post-irradiation ADC values were compared with the tumor volume, and the immunohistochemical staining of MMP-9 and hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining of tumor allografts. However, no correlations between the pre-treatment ADC values and changes in tumor volumes following irradiation were observed. Notably, the mean ADC value was significantly higher in the irradiated tumors (0.756±0.102×10 -3 mm 2 /sec) as compared with those in the untreated tumors (0.501±0.052×10 -3 mm 2 /sec; P=0.002; r=0.682). Additionally, immunohistochemical staining demonstrated that MMP-9 expression in the irradiated tumors was significantly increased. The mean ADC value was significantly higher in the irradiated tumors with high MMP-9 expression levels (0.815±0.112×10 -3 mm 2 /sec), as compared with in the untreated tumors with low MMP-9 expression levels (0.631±0.068×10 -3 mm 2 /sec). Quantitative analysis determined that the ADC values were correlated with MMP-9 expression (r=0.752; P=0.003). Combined, these results suggest that radiation-induced increases in MMP-9 expression levels may be responsible for early changes in the mean ADC value and the response to irradiation in cervical carcinoma.

A variant of GRK5 is associated with the therapeutic efficacy of repaglinide in Chinese Han patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

PubMed

Shang, Zhenhai; Han, Feifei; Zhou, Xueyan; Bao, Zejun; Zhu, Jing; Wang, Tao; Lu, Qian; Du, Lei; Li, Wei; Lv, Dongmei; Yin, Xiaoxing

2018-04-16

Post-Market Research We aimed to investigate the impact of G protein-coupled receptor kinase 5 (GRK5) rs10886471 polymorphism on repaglinide efficacy in Chinese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). A total of 300 T2DM patients and 210 healthy controls were genotyped for GRK5 rs10886471 on a three-dimensional polyacrylamide gel-based DNA microarray. Eighty-five patients with the same genotypes of cytochrome P450 (CYP) 2C8*3 139Arg and organic anion-transporting polypeptide 1B1 (OATP1B1) 521TT were randomly selected to orally take repaglinide for eight consecutive weeks. Then, the biochemical indicators and pharmacodynamic parameters were measured before and after repaglinide treatment. The T allelic frequency of GRK5 rs10886471 was higher in T2DM patients than in healthy subjects (p < .01). T2DM patients with genotypes CC and CT at GRK5 rs10886471 had a significant reduction in terms of fasting plasma glucose (FPG) compared with those with genotype TT (p < .01). In addition, the carriers of genotypes CC and CT at GRK5 rs10886471 had higher differential values of postprandial serum insulin (PINS) compared with genotype TT carriers (p < .05). These findings suggest that GRK5 rs10886471 polymorphism may influence the therapeutic efficacy of repaglinide in Chinese Han T2DM patients. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Genetic Polymorphisms in SOD (rs2070424, rs7880) and CAT (rs7943316, rs1001179) Enzymes Are Associated with Increased Body Fat Percentage and Visceral Fat in an Obese Population from Central Mexico.

PubMed

Hernández-Guerrero, César; Hernández-Chávez, Paulina; Romo-Palafox, Inés; Blanco-Melo, Grecia; Parra-Carriedo, Alicia; Pérez-Lizaur, Ana

2016-07-01

Oxidative disturbance is an important factor involved in the etiology of comorbidities associated with obesity. Genetic polymorphisms such as SOD1 -251A>G, SOD2 47 C>T, CAT -21A>T and CAT -262 C>T have been described to alter the activity of antioxidant enzymes. The aim of the present work was to analyze the association of the mentioned SNPs with obesity and their relationship with anthropometric and clinical variables in this group. The study included 416 Mexican women (208 normal weight, NW and 208 subjects with obesity, OB). Dietary intake, anthropometric, biochemical and clinical features were evaluated and then analyzed in function of the genotypes. The mutated carriers (GA+GG) of SOD -251 were significantly higher in the OB group (0.24) compared to the NW group (0.08). The other SNPs showed no differences compared with control group. When comparing carrier mutated subjects with obesity vs. wild-type obese participants with the SNPs SOD1 -251, SOD2 47 and CAT -262, the carriers showed a significantly (p <0.05) higher value in body fat percentage. Also, carriers of SOD2 47 and CAT-262 showed significantly higher values (p = 0.002) and (p = 0.01), respectively, when visceral fat was compared between groups. Systolic blood pressure was significantly higher (p = 0.02) in carriers of mutated CAT-21. SOD1 -251A>G is associated with obesity independent of the presence of diabetes or dyslipidemia. Mutated obese carries of SOD1 -251, SOD2 47 and CAT -262 are associated with a higher distribution of fat in comparison with obese wild-type carriers. Copyright © 2016 IMSS. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Correlational study on atmospheric concentrations of fine particulate matter and children cough variant asthma.

PubMed

Zhang, Y-X; Liu, Y; Xue, Y; Yang, L-Y; Song, G-D; Zhao, L

2016-06-01

We explored the relationship between atmospheric concentrations of fine particulate matter and children cough variant asthma. 48 children all diagnosed with cough variant asthma were placed in the cough asthma group while 50 children suffering from typical asthma were place in typical asthma group. We also had 50 cases of chronic pneumonia (the pneumonia group) and 50 cases of healthy children (the control group). We calculated the average PM 2.5 and temperature values during spring, summer, autumn and winter and monitored serum lymphocyte ratio, CD4+/CD8+T, immunoglobulin IgE, ventilatory index and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) levels. Our results showed that PM 2.5 values in spring and winter were remarkably higher compared to other seasons. Correlated analysis demonstrated that the onset of cough asthma group was happening in spring. The onset of typical asthma group happened mostly in winter, followed by spring. We established a positive correlation between the onset of asthma of cough asthma group and PM 2.5 value (r = 0.623, p = 0.017), and there was also a positive correlation between the onset of asthma of typical asthma group and PM 2.5 value (r = 0.714, p = 0.015). Our results showed that lymphocyte ratio and IgE level in the cough asthma group and the typical asthma group were significantly higher. CD4+/CD8+T was significantly lower in the cough asthma group and the typical asthma group. The hs-CRP level in cough asthma, typical asthma and pneumonia groups were significantly higher than that of the control group. The FEV1/predicted value, FEV1/FVC and MMEF/predicted value in the cough asthma group and the typical asthma group were significantly lower than those in other groups, however when comparing between two groups respectively, the difference was not statistically significant. Our findings showed that PM2.5 was related to the onset of children cough variant asthma. PM2.5 reduced immune regulation and ventilatory function.

Avian thermoregulation in the heat: resting metabolism, evaporative cooling and heat tolerance in Sonoran Desert songbirds.

PubMed

Smith, Eric Krabbe; O'Neill, Jacqueline J; Gerson, Alexander R; McKechnie, Andrew E; Wolf, Blair O

2017-09-15

We examined thermoregulatory performance in seven Sonoran Desert passerine bird species varying in body mass from 10 to 70 g - lesser goldfinch, house finch, pyrrhuloxia, cactus wren, northern cardinal, Abert's towhee and curve-billed thrasher. Using flow-through respirometry, we measured daytime resting metabolism, evaporative water loss and body temperature at air temperatures ( T air ) between 30 and 52°C. We found marked increases in resting metabolism above the upper critical temperature ( T uc ), which for six of the seven species fell within a relatively narrow range (36.2-39.7°C), but which was considerably higher in the largest species, the curve-billed thrasher (42.6°C). Resting metabolism and evaporative water loss were minimal below the T uc and increased with T air and body mass to maximum values among species of 0.38-1.62 W and 0.87-4.02 g H 2 O h -1 , respectively. Body temperature reached maximum values ranging from 43.5 to 45.3°C. Evaporative cooling capacity, the ratio of evaporative heat loss to metabolic heat production, reached maximum values ranging from 1.39 to 2.06, consistent with known values for passeriforms and much lower than values in taxa such as columbiforms and caprimulgiforms. These maximum values occurred at heat tolerance limits that did not scale with body mass among species, but were ∼50°C for all species except the pyrrhuloxia and Abert's towhee (48°C). High metabolic costs associated with respiratory evaporation appeared to drive the limited heat tolerance in these desert passeriforms, compared with larger desert columbiforms and galliforms that use metabolically more efficient mechanisms of evaporative heat loss. © 2017. Published by The Company of Biologists Ltd.

Effect of feeding different levels of Azolla pinnata on blood biochemicals, hematology and immunocompetence traits of Chabro chicken

PubMed Central

Mishra, Deepesh Bharat; Roy, Debashis; Kumar, Vinod; Bhattacharyya, Amitav; Kumar, Muneendra; Kushwaha, Raju; Vaswani, Shalini

2016-01-01

Aim: The present study was conducted to see the effect of feeding different levels of Azolla meal on blood biochemicals, hematology and immunocompetence traits of Chabro chicken. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted on 160 Chabro chicks, which were randomly divided into four treatment groups each with four replicates of 10 birds. The first treatment (T1) served as a control in which basal diets was offered without Azolla supplementation while in T2, T3, and T4 groups, basal diet was replaced with Azolla meal at 5%, 7.5%, and 10% levels, respectively. A feeding trial was conducted upto 8 weeks. At the last week of trial, blood samples were collected randomly from one bird of each replicate and plasma was separated to estimate certain biochemical parameters, some blood metabolites, minerals and enzymes like alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase (AST). Hematological parameters such as hemoglobin, packed cell volume, total leukocytes count and differential leukocytes count were estimated in fresh blood just after collection. The humoral immune response was measured against sheep red blood cells,and cell-mediated immune response was measured against phyto hemagglutinin lectin from Phaseolus vulgaris (PHA-P). Results: The study showed that hematological profile of the Chabro bird was not affected by any treatment except heterophil and lymphocyte which was found higher in T2 and T3 groups and eosinophil was found higher in a T3 group than control. Blood glucose, creatinine, cholesterol, total protein, albumin, uric acid, and triglycerides were found similar in all the groups and within the normal values for broiler chicken. Liver enzymes and macro mineral content in blood were found similar in all the treatment groups and within normal physiological range. Although AST was found higher in 10% replacement group than control, the value was within normal range for broiler chicken. Although antibody titer was found similar in all the experimental groups in the present study, cell-mediate immune response (response to PHA-P) was found higher in 5%, 7.5%, and 10% replacement groups than control(p<0.05). Conclusion: Similar blood biochemical parameters and higher cell-mediated immune response in Azolla replacement group indicated immune-modulatory effect of Azolla meal without any toxicity. PMID:27051207

Effect of feeding different levels of Azolla pinnata on blood biochemicals, hematology and immunocompetence traits of Chabro chicken.

PubMed

Mishra, Deepesh Bharat; Roy, Debashis; Kumar, Vinod; Bhattacharyya, Amitav; Kumar, Muneendra; Kushwaha, Raju; Vaswani, Shalini

2016-02-01

The present study was conducted to see the effect of feeding different levels of Azolla meal on blood biochemicals, hematology and immunocompetence traits of Chabro chicken. The study was conducted on 160 Chabro chicks, which were randomly divided into four treatment groups each with four replicates of 10 birds. The first treatment (T1) served as a control in which basal diets was offered without Azolla supplementation while in T2, T3, and T4 groups, basal diet was replaced with Azolla meal at 5%, 7.5%, and 10% levels, respectively. A feeding trial was conducted upto 8 weeks. At the last week of trial, blood samples were collected randomly from one bird of each replicate and plasma was separated to estimate certain biochemical parameters, some blood metabolites, minerals and enzymes like alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase (AST). Hematological parameters such as hemoglobin, packed cell volume, total leukocytes count and differential leukocytes count were estimated in fresh blood just after collection. The humoral immune response was measured against sheep red blood cells,and cell-mediated immune response was measured against phyto hemagglutinin lectin from Phaseolus vulgaris (PHA-P). The study showed that hematological profile of the Chabro bird was not affected by any treatment except heterophil and lymphocyte which was found higher in T2 and T3 groups and eosinophil was found higher in a T3 group than control. Blood glucose, creatinine, cholesterol, total protein, albumin, uric acid, and triglycerides were found similar in all the groups and within the normal values for broiler chicken. Liver enzymes and macro mineral content in blood were found similar in all the treatment groups and within normal physiological range. Although AST was found higher in 10% replacement group than control, the value was within normal range for broiler chicken. Although antibody titer was found similar in all the experimental groups in the present study, cell-mediate immune response (response to PHA-P) was found higher in 5%, 7.5%, and 10% replacement groups than control(p<0.05). Similar blood biochemical parameters and higher cell-mediated immune response in Azolla replacement group indicated immune-modulatory effect of Azolla meal without any toxicity.

Tryptophan Predicts the Risk for Future Type 2 Diabetes

PubMed Central

Chen, Tianlu; Zheng, Xiaojiao; Ma, Xiaojing; Bao, Yuqian; Ni, Yan; Hu, Cheng; Rajani, Cynthia; Huang, Fengjie; Zhao, Aihua; Jia, Weiping; Jia, Wei

2016-01-01

Recently, 5 amino acids were identified and verified as important metabolites highly associated with type 2 diabetes (T2D) development. This report aims to assess the association of tryptophan with the development of T2D and to evaluate its performance with existing amino acid markers. A total of 213 participants selected from a ten-year longitudinal Shanghai Diabetes Study (SHDS) were examined in two ways: 1) 51 subjects who developed diabetes and 162 individuals who remained metabolically healthy in 10 years; 2) the same 51 future diabetes and 23 strictly matched ones selected from the 162 healthy individuals. Baseline fasting serum tryptophan concentrations were quantitatively measured using ultra-performance liquid chromatography triple quadruple mass spectrometry. First, serum tryptophan level was found significantly higher in future T2D and was positively and independently associated with diabetes onset risk. Patients with higher tryptophan level tended to present higher degree of insulin resistance and secretion, triglyceride and blood pressure. Second, the prediction potential of tryptophan is non-inferior to the 5 existing amino acids. The predictive performance of the combined score improved after taking tryptophan into account. Our findings unveiled the potential of tryptophan as a new marker associated with diabetes risk in Chinese populations. The addition of tryptophan provided complementary value to the existing amino acid predictors. PMID:27598004

[Evaluation of T-SPOT.TB assay in the diagnosis of pulmonary tuberculosis within different age groups].

PubMed

Pan, Liping; Jia, Hongyan; Liu, Fei; Gao, Mengqiu; Sun, Huishan; Du, Boping; Sun, Qi; Xing, Aiying; Wei, Rongrong; Zhang, Zongde

2015-12-01

To evaluate the value of T-SPOT.TB assay in the diagnosis of pulmonary tuberculosis within different age groups. We analyzed 1 518 suspected pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) patients who were admitted to the Beijing Chest Hospital from November 2012 to February 2014 and had valid T-SPOT.TB tests before anti-tuberculosis therapy. The 599 microbiologically and/or histopathologically-confirmed PTB patients (16-89 years old, 388 males and 211 females) and 235 non-TB patients (14-85 years old, 144 males and 91 females) were enrolled for the analysis of diagnostic performance of T-SPOT.TB, while patients with uncertain diagnosis or diagnosis based on clinical impression (n=684) were excluded from the analysis. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, positive likelihood ratio, and negative likelihood ratio of the T-SPOT.TB were analyzed according to the final diagnosis. Furthermore, the diagnostic performance of T-SPOT.TB assay in the younger patients (14-59 years old) and elderly patients (60-89 years old) were also analyzed respectively. Categorical variables were compared by Pearson's Chi-square test, while continuous variables were compared by the Mann-Whitney U-test. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, positive likelihood ratio, and negative likelihood ratio of the T-SPOT.TB in diagnosis of PTB were 90.1% (540/599), 65.5% (154/235), 86.9% (540/621), 72.3% (154/213), 2.61, and 0.15, respectively. The sensitivity and specificity of T-SPOT.TB assay were 92.6% (375/405) and 75.6% (99/131), respectively in the younger patients, and 85.0% (165/194), 52.9% (55/104) respectively in the elderly patients. The sensitivity and specificity of T-SPOT.TB assay in the younger patients were significantly higher than those in the elderly patients (P<0.01), and the spot forming cells in the younger PTB patients were significantly higher than in the elderly PTB patients [300 (126, 666)/10(6) PBMCs vs. 258 (79, 621)/10(6) PBMCs, P=0.037]. T-SPOT.TB is a promising test in the diagnosis of younger patients (14-59 years old) with suspected PTB, but the diagnostic performance in elderly patients (60-89 years old) is relatively reduced.

Increased Trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) Portends High Mortality Risk Independent of Glycemic Control in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

PubMed Central

Wilson Tang, W. H.; Wang, Zeneng; Li, Xinmin S.; Fan, Yiying; Li, Daniel S.; Wu, Yuping; Hazen, Stanley L.

2017-01-01

Background Recent studies show a mechanistic link between intestinal microbial metabolism of dietary phosphatidylcholine and coronary artery disease pathogenesis. Concentrations of a pro-atherogenic gut microbe-generated metabolite, trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO), predict increased incident cardiovascular disease risks in multiple cohorts. TMAO concentrations are increased in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), but their prognostic value and relation to glycemic control are unclear. Methods We examined the relationship between fasting TMAO and two of its nutrient precursors, choline and betaine, versus 3-year major adverse cardiac events and 5-year mortality in 1,216 stable patients with T2DM who underwent elective diagnostic coronary angiography. Results TMAO (4.4 µmol/L [interquartile range 2.8–7.7µmol/L] vs. 3.6[2.3–5.7µmol/L]; P<0.001) and choline concentrations were higher in individuals with T2DM versus healthy controls. Within T2DM patients, higher plasma TMAO was associated with a significant 3.0-fold increased 3-year major adverse cardiac events risk (P<0.001) and a 3.6-fold increased 5-year mortality risk (P<0.001). Following adjustments for traditional risk factors and high sensitivity C-reactive protein, glycated hemoglobin and estimated glomerular filtration rate, increased TMAO concentrations remained predictive of both major adverse cardiac events and mortality risks in T2DM patients (e.g. Quartiles 4 vs. 1, hazard ratio 2.05[95%CI 1.31–3.20], P<0.001; and 2.07[95%CI 1.37–3.14], P<0.001, respectively). Conclusion Fasting plasma concentrations of the pro-atherogenic gut microbe-generated metabolite TMAO are higher in diabetic patients and portend higher major adverse cardiac events and mortality risks independent of traditional risk factors, renal function, and relationship to glycemic control. PMID:27864387

Monitoring diffuse degassing in monogentic volcanic field during magmatic reactivation: the case of El Hierro (Canary Islands, Spain)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Morales-Ocaña, C.; Feldman, R. C.; Pointer, Z. R.; Rodríguez, F.; Asensio-Ramos, M.; Melián, G.; Padrón, E.; Hernández, P. A.; Pérez, N. M.

2017-12-01

El Hierro (278 km2), the younger, smallest and westernmost island of the Canarian archipelago, is a 5-km-high edifice constructed by rapid constructive and destructive processes in 1.12 Ma, with a truncated trihedron shape and three convergent ridges of volcanic cones. It experienced a submarine eruption from 12 October, 2011 and 5 March 2012, off its southern coast that was the first one to be monitored from the beginning in the Canary Islands. As no visible emanations occur at the surface environment of El Hierro, diffuse degassing studies have become a useful geochemical tool to monitor the volcanic activity in this volcanic island. Diffuse CO2 emission has been monitored at El Hierro Island since 1998 in a yearly basis, with much higher frequency in the period 2011-2012. At each survey, about 600 sampling sites were selected to obtain a homogeneous distribution. Measurements of soil CO2 efflux were performed in situ following the accumulation chamber method. During pre-eruptive and eruptive periods, the diffuse CO2 emission released by the whole island experienced significant increases before the onset of the submarine eruption and the most energetic seismic events of the volcanic-seismic unrest (Melián et al., 2014. J. Geophys. Res. Solid Earth, 119, 6976-6991). The soil CO2 efflux values of the 2017 survey ranged from non-detectable to 53.1 g m-2 d-1. Statistical-graphical analysis of the data show two different geochemical populations; background (B) and peak (P) represented by 77.6% and 22.4% of the total data, respectively, with geometric means of 1.8 and 9.2 g m-2 d-1, respectively. Most of the area showed B values while the P values were mainly observed at the interception center of the three convergent ridges and the north of the island. To estimate the diffuse CO2 emission for the 2017 survey, we ran about 100 sGs simulations. The estimated 2017 diffuse CO2 output released to atmosphere by El Hierro was at 1,150 ± 42 t d-1, value higher than the background average of CO2 emission estimated on 422 t d-1 and slightly higher than the background range of 181 t d-1 (-1σ) and 930 t d-1 (+1σ) estimated at El Hierro volcano during the quiescence period 1998-2010 (Melián et al., 2014, JGR). Monitoring the diffuse CO2 emission has proven to be a very effective tool to detect early warning signals of volcanic unrest at El Hierro.

Evaluation of median nerve T2 signal changes in patients with surgically treated carpal tunnel syndrome.

PubMed

Samanci, Yavuz; Karagöz, Yeşim; Yaman, Mehmet; Atçı, İbrahim Burak; Emre, Ufuk; Kılıçkesmez, Nuri Özgür; Çelik, Suat Erol

2016-11-01

To determine the accuracy of median nerve T2 evaluation and its relation with Boston Questionnaire (BQ) and nerve conduction studies (NCSs) in pre-operative and post-operative carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) patients in comparison with healthy volunteers. Twenty-three CTS patients and 24 healthy volunteers underwent NCSs, median nerve T2 evaluation and self-administered BQ. Pre-operative and 1st year post-operative median nerve T2 values and cross-sectional areas (CSAs) were compared both within pre-operative and post-operative CTS groups, and with healthy volunteers. The relationship between MRI findings and BQ and NCSs was analyzed. The ROC curve analysis was used for determining the accuracy. The comparison of pre-operative and post-operative T2 values and CSAs revealed statistically significant improvements in the post-operative patient group (p<0.001 for all parameters). There were positive correlations between T2 values at all levels and BQ values, and positive and negative correlations were also found regarding T2 values and NCS findings in CTS patients. The receiver operating characteristic curve analysis for defined cut-off levels of median nerve T2 values in hands with severe CTS yielded excellent accuracy at all levels. However, this accuracy could not be demonstrated in hands with mild CTS. This study is the first to analyze T2 values in both pre-operative and post-operative CTS patients. The presence of increased T2 values in CTS patients compared to controls and excellent accuracy in hands with severe CTS indicates T2 signal changes related to CTS pathophysiology and possible utilization of T2 signal evaluation in hands with severe CTS. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Randomized Trial of Hyperfractionation Versus Conventional Fractionation in T2 Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Vocal Cord (RTOG 9512)

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

Trotti, Andy, E-mail: andy.trotti@moffitt.org; Zhang, Qiang; Bentzen, Søren M.

2014-08-01

Purpose: To compare hyperfractionation versus standard fractionation for T2N0 vocal cord carcinoma in a randomized controlled trial. Methods and Materials: Patients with T2 vocal cord cancer were stratified by substage (T2a vs T2b) and randomly assigned to receive either hyperfractionation (HFX) to 79.2 Gy in 66 fractions of 1.2 Gy given twice a day, or standard fractionation (SFX) to 70 Gy in 35 fractions given once a day. The trial was designed to detect a 55% reduction in the local failure hazard rate with 80% statistical power. Results: Between April 1996 and July 2003, a total of 250 patients were enrolled. Of 239more » patients analyzable for outcomes, 94% were male, 83% had a Karnofsky performance status of 90-100, and 62% had T2a tumor. Median follow-up for all surviving patients was 7.9 years (range, 0.6-13.1 years). The 5-year local control (LC) rate was 8 points higher but not statistically significant (P=.14 for HFX [78%] vs SFX [70%]), corresponding to a 30% hazard rate reduction. The 5-year disease-free survival (DFS) was 49% versus 40% (P=.13) and overall survival (OS) was 72% versus 63% (P=.29). HFX was associated with higher rates of acute skin, mucosal, and laryngeal toxicity. Grade 3-4 late effects were similar with a 5-year cumulative incidence of 8.5% (3.4%-13.6%) after SFX and 8.5% (3.4%-13.5%) after HFX. Conclusions: The 5-year local control was modestly higher with HFX compared to SFX for T2 glottic carcinoma, but the difference was not statistically significant. These results are consistent with prior studies of hyperfractionation showing a benefit in local control. Substaging by T2a versus T2b carries prognostic value for DFS and OS. For cost and convenience reasons other altered fractionation schedules have been adopted in routine practice.« less

Assessment of femur length for fetal biometry in Malaysian pregnant women

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ramli, Ramzun Maizan; Adam, Noraina; Jaafar, Mohamad Suhaimi; Rahman, Azhar Abdul; Mustafa, Iskandar Shahrim; Radzi, Yasmin; Nordin, Suriani; Kamarudin, Izyani

2013-05-01

The fetal biometry assessment of femur length (FL) was developed in most countries to evaluate the foetus growth. In this study, the FL values for Malaysia population were determined. A prospective study was conducted and a number of 6501 pregnant women were involved with 12372 FL data were collected, performed at antenatal care clinic of Hospital Pulau Pinang, Malaysia. The SPSS software version 17 (regression analysis and paired sample t-test) were used for analysis. The FL values of this study were constructed and rapid FL growth rate in second trimester (2.59 mm/week) than third trimester (1.43 mm/week) was observed. By ethnicity, no significant difference (p ≥ 0.05) was found between the FL values for fetuses of Malay and Indian ethnic's mother (t = -2.042), however these two groups shows significantly (p < 0.05) higher values than those of Chinese ethnic's mother (t = 4.019, 4.083; accordingly). The FL values of Malaysian resulted as significant difference with the common reference FL values from USA and UK, and also with selected Asian populations (India, China, Korea and Japan). As conclusion, it is strong suggested that medical practitioner in Malaysia should avoid in using biometry references based on other population to avoid under- or over-estimation and for accurate assessment of the fetus growth. As this study involved local Malaysian fetuses, therefore the medical practitioner can use the FL values of this study as reference value for fetus biometry assessment in Malaysia.

Left lobe of the prostate during clinical prostate cancer screening: the dark side of the gland for right-handed examiners.

PubMed

Ploussard, G; Nicolaiew, N; Mongiat-Artus, P; Terry, S; Allory, Y; Vacherot, F; Abbou, C-C; Desgrandchamps, F; Salomon, L; de la Taille, A

2014-06-01

The predictive value of the abnormality side during digital rectal examination (DRE) has never been studied, suggesting that physicians examined the left lobe of the gland as well as the right lobe. We aimed to assess the predictive value of the side of DRE abnormality for prostate cancer (PCa) detection and aggressiveness in right-handed urologists. An analysis of a prospective database was carried out that included all consecutive men undergoing prostate biopsies between 2001 and 2012. The main end point was the predictive value of the abnormality side during DRE for cancer detection in clinically suspicious unilateral T2 disease. The diagnostic performance of left- versus right-sided abnormality was also assessed in terms of sensitivity, specificity and negative/positive predictive values. Overall, 308 patients had a suspicious unilateral clinical disease (detection rate 57.5%). The cancer detection rate was significantly higher in case of left-sided compared with right-sided clinical T2 stage (odds ratio 2.1). In case of left-sided disease, the number of positive cores, the rate of perineural invasion, the rate of primary grade 4 pattern and the percentage of cancer involvement per core were significantly higher compared with those reported for right-sided disease. The predictive value of abnormality laterality for cancer detection and aggressiveness remained statistically independent in multivariate models. The positive predictive value for cancer detection was 64.6 in case of suspicious left-sided disease versus 46.9 in case of right-sided disease. The risks of detecting PCa and aggressive disease on biopsy are significantly higher when DRE reveals a suspicious left-sided clinical disease as compared with right-sided disease. Right-handed physicians should be aware of this variance in diagnostic performance and potential underdetection of left-sided clinical disease, and should improve their examination of the left lobe of the gland by conducting longer exams or changing the patient's position.

Positive T wave in lead aVR as an independent predictor for 1-year major adverse cardiac events in patients with first anterior wall ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction.

PubMed

Kobayashi, Akihiro; Misumida, Naoki; Aoi, Shunsuke; Kanei, Yumiko

2017-11-01

Positive T wave in lead aVR has been shown to predict an adverse in-hospital outcome in patients with anterior wall ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). However, the prognostic value of positive T wave in lead aVR on a long-term outcome has not been fully explored. We performed a retrospective analysis of 190 consecutive patients with first anterior wall STEMI who underwent an emergent coronary angiogram. Patients were divided into those with positive T wave > 0 mV and those with negative T wave ≦ 0 mV in lead aVR. Baseline and angiographic characteristics, and in-hospital revascularization procedures were recorded. In addition, in-hospital and 1-year major adverse cardiac events (MACE) including death, recurrent myocardial infarction, and target vessel revascularization were recorded. Among 190 patients, 37 patients (19%) had positive T wave and 153 patients (81%) had negative T wave in lead aVR. Patients with positive T wave had higher rate of left main disease defined as stenosis ≥50% (11% vs. 2%, p = .028) than those with negative T wave. Patients with positive T wave had higher rate of 1-year MACE (38% vs. 13%, p < .001) driven by higher all-cause mortality (27% vs. 5%, p < .001). Positive T wave was an independent predictor for 1-year MACE (OR 2.74; 95% CI 1.04-7.15; p = .04). Positive T wave in lead aVR was an independent predictor for 1-year MACE in patients with first anterior wall STEMI. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Stability of radial head and neck fractures: a biomechanical study of six fixation constructs with consideration of three locking plates.

PubMed

Burkhart, Klaus Josef; Mueller, Lars P; Krezdorn, David; Appelmann, Philipp; Prommersberger, Karl J; Sternstein, Werner; Rommens, Pol M

2007-12-01

Open reduction and internal fixation of radial neck fractures can lead to secondary loss of reduction and nonunion due to insufficient stability. Nevertheless, there are only a few biomechanical studies about the stability achieved by different osteosynthesis constructs. Forty-eight formalin-fixed, human proximal radii were divided into 6 groups according to their bone density (measured by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry). A 2.7-mm gap osteotomy was performed to simulate an unstable radial neck fracture, which was fixed with 3 nonlocking implants: a 2.4-mm T plate, a 2.4-mm blade plate, and 2.0-mm crossed screws, and 3 locking plates: a 2.0-mm LCP T plate, a 2.0-mm 6x2 grid plate, and a 2.0-mm radial head plate. Implants were tested under axial (N/mm) and torsional (Ncm/ degrees ) loads with a servohydraulic materials testing machine. The radial head plate was significantly stiffer than all other implants under axial as well as under torsional loads, with values of 36 N/mm and 13 Ncm/ degrees . The second-stiffest implant was the blade plate, with values of 20 N/mm and 6 Ncm/ degrees . The weakest implants were the 2.0-mm LCP, with values of 6 N/mm and 2 Ncm/ degrees , and the 2.0-mm crossed screws, with values of 18 N/mm and 2 Ncm/ degrees . The 2.4-mm T plate, with values of 14 N/mm and 4 Ncm/ degrees , and the 2.0-mm grid plate, with values of 8 N/mm and 4 Ncm/ degrees came to lie in the midfield. The 2.0-mm angle-stable plates-depending on their design-allow fixation with comparable or even higher stability than the bulky 2.4-mm nonlocking implants and 2.0-mm crossed screws.

Omega-3 fatty acids and oxidative stability of ice cream supplemented with olein fraction of chia (Salvia hispanica L.) oil.

PubMed

Ullah, Rahman; Nadeem, Muhammad; Imran, Muhammad

2017-02-07

Chia (Salvia hispanica L.) has been regarded as good source of polyunsaturated omega-3 fatty acids with cardiac, hepatic, hypotensive, antiallergic and antidiabetic role. Concentration of omega-3 fatty acids in chia oil can be enhanced by fractionation. Olein/low melting fraction of chia oil has higher concentration of omega-3 fatty acids. Therefore, main objective of current investigation was determination of various concentration effect of olein fraction of chia oil on omega-3 fatty acids, oxidative stability and sensory characteristics of ice cream. Ice cream samples were prepared by partially replacing the milk fat with olein fraction of chia oil at 5, 10, 15 and 20% concentrations (T 1 , T 2 , T 3 and T 4 ), respectively. Ice cream prepared from 100% milk fat was kept as control. Ice cream samples stored at -18 °C for 60 days were analysed at 0, 30 and 60 days of the storage period. Fatty acid profile, total phenolic contents, total flavonoids, free fatty acids, peroxide value, anisidine value and sensory characteristics of ice cream samples was studied. Concentration of α-linolenic acid, eicosapentaenoic acid, docosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid in T 4 was 13.24, 0.58, 0.42 and 0.31%, respectively. Total phenolic contents of control, T 1 , T 2 , T 3 and T 4 were recorded 0.12, 1.65, 3.17, 5.19 and 7.48 mg GAE/mL, respectively. Total flavonoid content of control, T 1 , T 2 , T 3 and T 4 were found 0.08, 0.64, 1.87, 3.16 and 4.29 mg Quercetin Equivalent/mL. 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging activity of control, T 1 , T 2 , T 3 and T 4 was noted 5.61, 17.43, 36.84, 51.17 and 74.91%, respectively. After 60 days of storage period, the highest peroxide value of 1.84 (MeqO 2 /kg) was observed in T 4 , which was much less than allowable limit of 10 (MeqO 2 /kg). Flavour score was non-significant after 30 days of storage period. Supplementation of ice cream with olein fraction of chia oil enhanced the concentration of omega-3 fatty acids and improved the antioxidant perspectives of ice cream. These results suggest that omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidant characteristics of ice cream may be improved with olein fraction of chia oil for discerning consumers.

Tissue-Specific Imaging Is a Robust Methodology to Differentiate In Vivo T1 Black Holes with Advanced Multiple Sclerosis–Induced Damage

PubMed Central

Riva, M.; Ikonomidou, V.N.; Ostuni, J.J.; van Gelderen, P.; Auh, S.; Ohayon, J.M.; Tovar-Moll, F.; Richert, N.D.; Duyn, J.H.; Bagnato, F.

2017-01-01

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Brains of patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) characteristically have “black holes” (BHs), hypointense lesions on T1-weighted (T1W) spin-echo (SE) images. Although conventional MR imaging can disclose chronic BHs (CBHs), it cannot stage the degree of their pathologic condition. Tissue-specific imaging (TSI), a recently introduced MR imaging technique, allows selective visualization of white matter (WM), gray matter (GM), and CSF on the basis of T1 values of classes of tissue. We investigated the ability of TSI-CSF to separate CBHs with longer T1 values, which likely represent lesions containing higher levels of destruction and unbound water. MATERIALS AND METHODS Eighteen patients with MS, who had already undergone MR imaging twice (24 months apart) on a 1.5T scanner, underwent a 3T MR imaging examination. Images acquired at 1.5T included sequences of precontrast and postcontrast T1W SE, T2-weighted (T2W) SE, and magnetization transfer (MT). Sequences obtained at 3T included precontrast and postcontrast T1W SE, T2W SE, T1 inversion recovery prepared fast spoiled gradient recalled-echo (IR-FSPGR) and TSI. A BH on the 3T-IR-FSPGR was defined as a CBH if seen as a hypointense, nonenhancing lesion with a corresponding T2 abnormality for at least 24 months. CBHs were separated into 2 groups: those visible as hyperintensities on TSI-CSF (group A), and those not appearing on the TSI-CSF (group B). RESULTS Mean MT ratios of group-A lesions (0.22 ± 0.06, 0.13–0.35) were lower (F1,13 = 60.39; P < .0001) than those of group-B lesions (0.32 ± 0.03, 0.27–0.36). CONCLUSIONS Group-A lesions had more advanced tissue damage; thus, TSI is a potentially valuable method for qualitative and objective identification. PMID:19406765

Postexercise heart rate variability following treadmill and cycle exercise: a comparison study.

PubMed

Esco, Michael R; Flatt, Andrew A; Williford, Henry N

2017-05-01

The purpose of this study was to compare postexercise heart rate variability (HRV) immediately following acute bouts of treadmill (T) and cycle (C) exercise at 65% of mode-specific maximal oxygen consumption reserve (65% VO 2 R). Fourteen apparently healthy men participated in this study. On two separate and randomized days, each participant performed 30 min of exercise at 65% VO 2 R on T and C. Supine HRV was evaluated as normalized and log-transformed (ln) high-frequency (HF) and low-frequency (LF) spectral power, as well as the LF:HF ratio in 5-min segments immediately before (PRE) and at 10-15 min (POST1) and 25-30 min (POST2) following each exercise bout. There were no significant differences in the HRV values at PRE between the modalities. Following each exercise bout, lnHF was significantly lower at POST2 following C compared to T. In addition, lnLF and LF:HF were significantly higher at POST1 and POST2 following C compared to T. All HRV metrics returned towards baseline 30 min following T but remained significantly different than PRE values after C. These results suggest that following exercise at 65% of mode-specific VO 2 R, C is associated with a greater delay of postexercise HRV recovery than T in apparently healthy men. © 2015 Scandinavian Society of Clinical Physiology and Nuclear Medicine. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

The prognostic value of blood lactate levels relative to that of vital signs in the pre-hospital setting: a pilot study

PubMed Central

Jansen, Tim C; van Bommel, Jasper; Mulder, Paul G; Rommes, Johannes H; Schieveld, Selma JM; Bakker, Jan

2008-01-01

Introduction A limitation of pre-hospital monitoring is that vital signs often do not change until a patient is in a critical stage. Blood lactate levels are suggested as a more sensitive parameter to evaluate a patient's condition. The aim of this pilot study was to find presumptive evidence for a relation between pre-hospital lactate levels and in-hospital mortality, corrected for vital sign abnormalities. Methods In this prospective observational study (n = 124), patients who required urgent ambulance dispatching and had a systolic blood pressure below 100 mmHg, a respiratory rate less than 10 or more than 29 breaths/minute, or a Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) below 14 were enrolled. Nurses from Emergency Medical Services measured capillary or venous lactate levels using a hand-held device on arrival at the scene (T1) and just before or on arrival at the emergency department (T2). The primary outcome measured was in-hospital mortality. Results The average (standard deviation) time from T1 to T2 was 27 (10) minutes. Non-survivors (n = 32, 26%) had significantly higher lactate levels than survivors at T1 (5.3 vs 3.7 mmol/L) and at T2 (5.4 vs 3.2 mmol/L). Mortality was significantly higher in patients with lactate levels of 3.5 mmol/L or higher compared with those with lactate levels below 3.5 mmol/L (T1: 41 vs 12% and T2: 47 vs 15%). Also in the absence of hypotension, mortality was higher in those with higher lactate levels. In a multivariable Cox proportional hazard analysis including systolic blood pressure, heart rate, GCS (all at T1) and delta lactate level (from T1 to T2), only delta lactate level (hazard ratio (HR) = 0.20, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.05 to 0.76, p = 0.018) and GCS (HR = 0.93, 95% CI = 0.88 to 0.99, p = 0.022) were significant independent predictors of in-hospital mortality. Conclusions In a cohort of patients that required urgent ambulance dispatching, pre-hospital blood lactate levels were associated with in-hospital mortality and provided prognostic information superior to that provided by the patient's vital signs. There is potential for early detection of occult shock and pre-hospital resuscitation guided by lactate measurement. However, external validation is required before widespread implementation of lactate measurement in the out-of-hospital setting. PMID:19091118

Brain MR imaging at ultra-low radiofrequency power.

PubMed

Sarkar, Subhendra N; Alsop, David C; Madhuranthakam, Ananth J; Busse, Reed F; Robson, Philip M; Rofsky, Neil M; Hackney, David B

2011-05-01

To explore the lower limits for radiofrequency (RF) power-induced specific absorption rate (SAR) achievable at 1.5 T for brain magnetic resonance (MR) imaging without loss of tissue signal or contrast present in high-SAR clinical imaging in order to create a potentially viable MR method at ultra-low RF power to image tissues containing implanted devices. An institutional review board-approved HIPAA-compliant prospective MR study design was used, with written informed consent from all subjects prior to MR sessions. Seven healthy subjects were imaged prospectively at 1.5 T with ultra-low-SAR optimized three-dimensional (3D) fast spin-echo (FSE) and fluid-attenuated inversion-recovery (FLAIR) T2-weighted sequences and an ultra-low-SAR 3D spoiled gradient-recalled acquisition in the steady state T1-weighted sequence. Corresponding high-SAR two-dimensional (2D) clinical sequences were also performed. In addition to qualitative comparisons, absolute signal-to-noise ratios (SNRs) and contrast-to-noise ratios (CNRs) for multicoil, parallel imaging acquisitions were generated by using a Monte Carlo method for quantitative comparison between ultra-low-SAR and high-SAR results. There were minor to moderate differences in the absolute tissue SNR and CNR values and in qualitative appearance of brain images obtained by using ultra-low-SAR and high-SAR techniques. High-SAR 2D T2-weighted imaging produced slightly higher SNR, while ultra-low-SAR 3D technique not only produced higher SNR for T1-weighted and FLAIR images but also higher CNRs for all three sequences for most of the brain tissues. The 3D techniques adopted here led to a decrease in the absorbed RF power by two orders of magnitude at 1.5 T, and still the image quality was preserved within clinically acceptable imaging times. RSNA, 2011

Impact of blood flow on diffusion coefficients of the human kidney: a time-resolved ECG-triggered diffusion-tensor imaging (DTI) study at 3T.

PubMed

Heusch, Philipp; Wittsack, Hans-Jörg; Kröpil, Patric; Blondin, Dirk; Quentin, Michael; Klasen, Janina; Pentang, Gael; Antoch, Gerald; Lanzman, Rotem S

2013-01-01

To evaluate the impact of renal blood flow on apparent diffusion coefficients (ADC) and fractional anisotropy (FA) using time-resolved electrocardiogram (ECG)-triggered diffusion-tensor imaging (DTI) of the human kidneys. DTI was performed in eight healthy volunteers (mean age 29.1 ± 3.2) using a single slice coronal echoplanar imaging (EPI) sequence (3 b-values: 0, 50, and 300 s/mm(2)) at the timepoint of minimum (20 msec after R wave) and maximum renal blood flow (200 msec after R wave) at 3T. Following 2D motion correction, region of interest (ROI)-based analysis of cortical and medullary ADC- and FA-values was performed. ADC-values of the renal cortex at maximum blood flow (2.6 ± 0.19 × 10(-3) mm(2)/s) were significantly higher than at minimum blood flow (2.2 ± 0.11 × 10(-3) mm(2)/s) (P < 0.001), while medullary ADC-values did not differ significantly (maximum blood flow: 2.2 ± 0.18 × 10(-3) mm(2)/s; minimum blood flow: 2.15 ± 0.14 × 10(-3) mm(2)/s). FA-values of the renal medulla were significantly greater at maximal blood (0.53 ± 0.05) than at minimal blood flow (0.47 ± 0.05) (P < 0.01). In contrast, cortical FA-values were comparable at different timepoints of the cardiac cycle. ADC-values in the renal cortex as well as FA-values in the renal medulla are influenced by renal blood flow. This impact has to be considered when interpreting renal ADC- and FA-values. Copyright © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Effect of Oyster Shell Calcium Powder on the Quality of Restructured Pork Ham.

PubMed

Choi, Jung-Seok; Lee, Hyun-Jin; Jin, Sang-Keun; Lee, Hyun-Joo; Choi, Yang-Il

2014-01-01

This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of oyster shell calcium powder (OSCP) as a substitute for phosphates in curing agent, on the quality of restructured pork ham. Restructured pork ham was processed under six treatment conditions: T1 (no additives), T2 (0.3% sodium tripolyphosphate), T3 (1.5% NaCl+0.5% whey protein), T4 (1.5% NaCl+0.5% whey protein+0.15% OSCP), T5 (1.5% NaCl+0.5% whey protein+0.3% OSCP), and T6 (1.5% NaCl+0.5% whey protein+0.5% OSCP). Addition of OSCP significantly increased the ash content and pH of restructured pork ham (p<0.05), but did not affect the cooking loss and water holding capacity values of restructured pork ham. Addition of OSCP had no effect on Hunter a and b surface color values of restructured pork ham, but did decrease the Hunter L surface color value (p<0.05). The addition of 0.5% OSCP showed significantly higher chewiness and springiness values of restructured pork ham, compared with the addition of phosphates (p<0.05). In conclusion, the addition of OSCP combined with low NaCl and 0.5% whey protein can be considered a viable substitute for phosphates in the curing agent, when processing restructured pork ham.

Soil erosion rates (particulate and dissolved fluxes) variations in a temperate river basin

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cerdan, Olivier; Gay, Aurore; Négrel, Philippe; Pételet-Giraud, Emmanuelle; Salvador Blanes, Sébastien; Degan, Francesca

2015-04-01

Soil erosion is one of the major drivers of landscape evolution in Western Europe. However, depending on the land use characteristics and on the geological and topographical settings, miscellaneous forms of erosion may lead to a very diverse morphological evolution. To understand these landscape evolutions different scientific questions remain to be answered or quantified. The main difficulty arises from the nonlinear interactions between different erosional processes that act at different temporal and spatial scales. This study proposes to investigate different datasets describing particulate and dissolved sediment fluxes within a French River basin (The Loire River) at different spatial scales and at temporal scales ranging from the flood event to several decades. The particulate sediment load values at the outlet of the catchments range from 2.5 102 to 8.6 105 t yr-1, and the sediment yield values range from 2.9 to 32.4 t km 2 yr-1. Sediment exports from the Loire and Brittany river basins are low compared with mountainous regions and European exports. However, a strong spatial variability within this territory exists. The expected results on the sediment yield spatial pattern distribution and the correlation between SY values and basin sizes are not observed. An analysis of the sediment yield values at different time steps shows a strong effect of the seasonal availability of detached particles to be transported. High concentrations of suspended sediments during the winter and lower values during the summer and autumn are observed. Inter-annual variations are also observed, with export values varying by a factor 2 to 10 between years for one catchment. The influence of rainfall on the sediment exports is predominant, but investigations on physical characteristics of each catchment (e.g., lithology, slope, land use) are required to better understand the production and transfer processes within a drainage basin. These inter-annual variations imply that long-term data are required to provide mean SY values representative of the catchment functioning. From our calculations, 18 complete years of data are required to obtain a mean sediment yield value with less than 10% of variation on average around the mean. The specific dissolved fluxes vary from 13.7 to 199.9 t.km-2. t yr-1. Contrary to particulate matters, the impact of the lithology is illustrated by higher total dissolved solid fluxes on limestone catchments compared with graniteous or schisteous catchments. Nitrates and ammonium are indicators of anthropogenic perturbation and their fluxes vary respectively from 0.4 to 31.4 t.km-2. yr-1 and from 7.8*10-3 to 7.7 t.km-2. yr-1 and evolve differently according to land uses: nitrates fluxes are lower in the upstream Loire and higher downstream in the region where agricultural pressure is higher. The analysis of these datasets at different spatial and temporal scales permits to identify some of the dominant processes, and also to distinguish natural from anthropogenic influences. Concerning upland physical soil surface erosion rates, we find that the average travel distance of eroded particles may be limited, implying a strong decrease in physical erosion rates when moving from the local scale (m²) to the river basin scale (> 103 km²). Chemical erosion rates are less sensitive to scale and can either decrease or increase with increasing area in function of lithology, land management and topography. The results also highlight the predominant role of surface connectivity to characterize the fraction of sediment exported out of river drainage areas by physical soil surface erosion. For the export of dissolved sediment originating from weathering processes, the catchment physiography and connectivity does no longer play the dominant role. A direct link between soil production rates and exported dissolved fluxes tends to show that, contrary to the suspended particles, which are transport-limited, the dissolved matter seems to be supply-limited.

IGF-1 and IGF-binding proteins and bone mass, geometry, and strength: relation to metabolic control in adolescent girls with type 1 diabetes.

PubMed

Moyer-Mileur, Laurie J; Slater, Hillarie; Jordan, Kristine C; Murray, Mary A

2008-12-01

Children and adolescents with poorly controlled type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) are at risk for decreased bone mass. Growth hormone (GH) and its mediator, IGF-1, promote skeletal growth. Recent observations have suggested that children and adolescents with T1DM are at risk for decreased bone mineral acquisition. We examined the relationships between metabolic control, IGF-1 and its binding proteins (IGFBP-1, -3, -5), and bone mass in T1DM in adolescent girls 12-15 yr of age with T1DM (n = 11) and matched controls (n = 10). Subjects were admitted overnight and given a standardized diet. Periodic blood samples were obtained, and bone measurements were performed. Serum GH, IGFBP-1 and -5, glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA(1c)), glucose, and urine magnesium levels were higher and IGF-1 values were lower in T1DM compared with controls (p < 0.05). Whole body BMC/bone area (BA), femoral neck areal BMD (aBMD) and bone mineral apparent density (BMAD), and tibia cortical BMC were lower in T1DM (p < 0.05). Poor diabetes control predicted lower IGF-1 (r(2) = 0.21) and greater IGFBP-1 (r(2) = 0.39), IGFBP-5 (r(2) = 0.38), and bone-specific alkaline phosphatase (BALP; r(2) = 0.41, p < 0.05). Higher urine magnesium excretion predicted an overall shorter, lighter skeleton, and lower tibia cortical bone size, mineral, and density (r(2) = 0.44-0.75, p < 0.05). In the T1DM cohort, earlier age at diagnosis was predictive of lower IGF-1, higher urine magnesium excretion, and lighter, thinner cortical bone (r(2) >or=0.45, p < 0.01). We conclude that poor metabolic control alters the GH/IGF-1 axis, whereas greater urine magnesium excretion may reflect subtle changes in renal function and/or glucosuria leading to altered bone size and density in adolescent girls with T1DM.

The Production of FRW Universe and Decay to Particles in Multiverse

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ghaffary, Tooraj

2017-09-01

In this study, first, it will be shown that as the Hubble parameter, " H", increases the production cross section for closed and flat Universes increases rapidly at smaller values of " H" and becomes constant for higher values of " H". However in the case of open Universe, the production cross section has been encountered a singularity. Before this singularity, as the H parameter increases, the cross section increases, for smaller H, ( H < 2.5), exhibits a turn-over at moderate values of H, (2.5 < H < 3.5), decreases for larger amount of H After that and for a special value of H, the cross section has been encountered with a singularity. Although the cross section cannot be defined at this singularity but before and after this point, it is certainly equal to zero. After this singularity, the cross section increases rapidly, when H increases. It is shown that if the production cross section of Universe happens before this singularity, it can't achieve to higher values of Hubble parameter after singularity. More over if the production cross section of Universe situates after the singularity, it won't get access to values of Hubble parameter less than the singularity. After that the thermal distribution for particles inside the FRW Universes are obtained. It is found that a large amount of particles are produced near apparent horizon due to their variety in their energy and their probabilities. Finally, comparing the particle production cross sections for flat, closed and open Universes, it is concluded that as the value of k increases, the cross section decreases.

Differentiation of prostatitis and prostate cancer using the Prostate Imaging-Reporting and Data System (PI-RADS).

PubMed

Meier-Schroers, Michael; Kukuk, Guido; Wolter, Karsten; Decker, Georges; Fischer, Stefan; Marx, Christian; Traeber, Frank; Sprinkart, Alois Martin; Block, Wolfgang; Schild, Hans Heinz; Willinek, Winfried

2016-07-01

To determine if prostate cancer (PCa) and prostatitis can be differentiated by using PI-RADS. 3T MR images of 68 patients with 85 cancer suspicious lesions were analyzed. The findings were correlated with histopathology. T2w imaging (T2WI), diffusion weighted imaging (DWI), dynamic contrast enhancement (DCE), and MR-Spectroscopy (MRS) were acquired. Every lesion was given a single PI-RADS score for each parameter, as well as a sum score and a PI-RADS v2 score. Furthermore, T2-morphology, ADC-value, perfusion type, citrate/choline-level, and localization were evaluated. 44 of 85 lesions showed PCa (51.8%), 21 chronic prostatitis (24.7%), and 20 other benign tissue such as hyperplasia or fibromuscular tissue (23.5%). The single PI-RADS score for T2WI, DWI, DCE, as well as the aggregated score including and not including MRS, and the PI-RADS v2-score were all significantly higher for PCa than for prostatitis or other tissue (p<0.001). The single PI-RADS score for MRS and the PI-RADS sum score including MRS were significantly higher for prostatitis than for other tissue (p=0.029 and p=0.020), whereas the other parameters were not different. Prostatitis usually presented borderline pathological PI-RADS scores, showed restricted diffusion with ADC≥900mm(2)/s in 100% of cases, was more often indistinctly hypointense on T2WI (66.7%), and localized in the transitional zone (57.1%). An ADC≥900mm(2)/s achieved the highest predictive value for prostatitis (AUC=0.859). Prostatitis can be differentiated from PCa using PI-RADS, since all available parameters are more distinct in cases of cancer. However, there is significant overlap between prostatitis and other benign findings, thus PI-RADS is only suitable to a limited extent for the primary assessment of prostatitis. Restricted diffusion with ADC≥900mm(2)/s is believed to be a good indicator for prostatitis. MRS can help to distinguish between prostatitis and other tissue. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Comparison of skin hydration in combination and single use of common moisturizers (cream, toner, and spray water).

PubMed

Yuanxi, Li; Wei, Hua; Lidan, Xiiong; Li, Li

2016-01-01

This study aims to assess the moisturization in combination or single use (including seven general applications) of three common moisturizers: cream, toner, and spray water. Groups were set as C: cream only; T: toner only; C+T, T+C: cream or toner applied successively within a few minutes; C-T, C-S: cream applied with repeated toner or spray water every 2 h; T-T: toner applied with repeated toner every 2 h; and N: untreated group. Outcomes were the change in skin hydration from baseline at 2, 4, 6, and 8 h after applications. All treated zones displayed a significantly higher degree of hydration compared with the untreated zone ( p < 0.05). For normal skin (hydration value at baseline >35 a.u.), C-T led to greatest hydration change rate compared with others, followed by C+T, T+C, and C. Those three applications exhibited analogous hydration at each test point ( p > 0.05). The hydration rate of C-S differed slightly from T-T, followed by those four mentioned above, with T being the last. For dry skin (hydration value at baseline <35 a.u.), no statistical significance could be detected between C-T zone and C+T, T+C, and C zones ( p > 0.05), the other results were identical. When cream and toner were applied successively, the application order has little effect on skin hydration. The application of cream only was an effective and brief way to achieve favorable moisturization especially for dry skin. As a complement, repeated application of toner rather than spray water is efficacious for skin hydration.

In vivo measurements of T1 relaxation times in mouse brain associated with different modes of systemic administration of manganese chloride.

PubMed

Kuo, Yu-Ting; Herlihy, Amy H; So, Po-Wah; Bhakoo, Kishore K; Bell, Jimmy D

2005-04-01

To measure regional T1 and T2 values for normal C57Bl/6 mouse brain and changes in T1 after systemic administration of manganese chloride (MnCl2) at 9.4 T. C57Bl/6 mice were anesthetized and baseline T1 and T2 measurements obtained prior to measurement of T1 after administration of MnCl2 at 9.4 T. MnCl2 was administered systemically either by the intravenous (IV), intraperitoneal (IP), or subcutaneous (SC) routes. T1 and T2 maps for each MRI transverse slice were generated using commercial software, and T1 and T2 values of white matter (WM), gray matter (GM), pituitary gland, and lateral ventricle were obtained. When compared with baseline values at low-field, significant lengthening of the T1 values was shown at 9.4 T, while no significant change was seen for T2 values. Significant T1 shortening of the normal mouse brain was observed following IV, IP, and SC administration of MnCl2, with IV and IP showing similar acute effects. Significant decreases in T1 values were seen for the pituitary gland and the ventricles 15 minutes after either IV or IP injection. GM showed greater uptake of the contrast agent than WM at 15 and 45 minutes after either IV or IP injections. Although both structures are within the blood-brain barrier (BBB), GM and WM revealed a steady decrease in T1 values at 24 and 72 hours after MnCl2 injection regardless of the route of administration. Systemic administration of MnCl2 by IV and IP routes induced similar time-course of T1 changes in different regions of the mouse brain. Acute effects of MnCl2 administration were mainly influenced by either the presence or absence of BBB. SC injection also provided significant T1 change at subacute stage after MnCl2 administration. Copyright 2005 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

MR textural analysis on T2 FLAIR images for the prediction of true oligodendroglioma by the 2016 WHO genetic classification.

PubMed

Rui, Wenting; Ren, Yan; Wang, Yin; Gao, Xinyi; Xu, Xiao; Yao, Zhenwei

2017-11-15

The genetic status of 1p/19q is important for differentiating oligodendroglioma, isocitrate-dehydrogenase (IDH)-mutant, and 1p/19q-codeleted from diffuse astrocytoma, IDH-mutant according to the 2016 World Health Organization (WHO) criteria. To assess the value of magnetic resonance textural analysis (MRTA) on T 2 fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) images for making a genetically integrated diagnosis of true oligodendroglioma by WHO guidelines. Retrospective case control. In all, there were 54 patients with a histopathological diagnosis of diffuse glioma (grade II). All were tested for IDH and 1p/19q. 3.0T, including T 2 FLAIR sequence, axial T 1 -weighted, and T 2 -weighted sequence. MRTA on a representative tumor region of interest (ROI) was made on preoperative T 2 FLAIR images around the area that had the largest diameter of solid tumor using Omni Kinetics software. Differences between IDH-mutant and 1p/19q-codeleted and IDH-mutant and 1p/19q-intact gliomas were analyzed by the Mann-Whitney rank sum test. Receiver operating characteristic curves (ROC) were created to assess MRTA diagnostic performance. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) were calculated with a cutoff value according to the Youden Index. Comparisons demonstrated significant differences in kurtosis (P = 0.007), energy (0.008), entropy (0.008), mean deviation (MD) (<0.001), and high gray-level run emphasis (HGLRE) (0.002), cluster shade (0.025), and sum average (0.002). First-order features comprising entropy (area under the curve [AUC] = 0.718, sensitivity = 97.1%) and energy (0.719, 94.1%) had the highest sensitivity but lower specificity (both 45%). Second-order features such as HGLRE (AUC = 0.750, sensitivity = 73.5%, specificity = 80.0%) and sum average (0.751, 70.6%, 80.0%) had relatively higher specificity, and all had AUC >0.7. MD had the highest diagnostic performance, with AUC = 0.878, sensitivity = 94.1%, specificity = 75.0%, PPV = 86.5%, and NPV = 88.2%. MRTA on T 2 FLAIR images may be helpful in identifying oligodendroglioma, IDH-mutant, and 1p/19q-codeleted. 3 Technical Efficacy: Stage 2 J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2017. © 2017 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.

Prognostic Value of Venous to Arterial Carbon Dioxide Difference during Early Resuscitation in Critically Ill Patients with Septic Shock.

PubMed

Helmy, Tamer Abdallah; El-Reweny, Ehab Mahmoud; Ghazy, Farahat Gomaa

2017-09-01

The partial pressure of venous to arterial carbon dioxide gradient (PCO 2 gap) is considered as an alternative marker of tissue hypoperfusion and has been used to guide treatment for shock. The aim of this study was to investigate the prognostic value of venous-to-arterial carbon dioxide difference during early resuscitation of patients with septic shock and compared it with that of lactate clearance and Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II (APACHE-II) score. Forty patients admitted to one Intensive Care Unit were enrolled. APACHE-II score was calculated on admission. An arterial blood gas, central venous, and lactate samples were obtained on admission and after 6 h, and lactate clearance was calculated. Patients were classified retrospectively into Group I (survivors) and Group II (nonsurvivors). Pv-aCO 2 difference in the two groups was evaluated. Data were fed to the computer and analyzed using IBM SPSS software package version 20.0. At T0, Group II showed high PCO 2 gap (8.37 ± 1.36 mmHg) than Group I (7.55 ± 0.95 mmHg) with statistically significant difference ( P = 0.030). While at T6, Group II showed higher PCO 2 gap (9.48 ± 1.47 mmHg) with statistically significant difference ( P < 0.001) and higher mean lactate values (62.71 ± 23.66 mg/dl) with statistically significant difference ( P < 0.001) than Group I where PCO 2 gap and mean lactate values became much lower, 5.91 ± 1.12 mmHg and 33.61 ± 5.80 mg mg/dl, respectively. Group I showed higher lactate clearance (25.42 ± 6.79%) with statistically significant difference ( P < 0.001) than Group II (-69.40-15.46%). High PCO 2 gap >7.8 mmHg after 6 h from resuscitation of septic shock patients is associated with high mortality.

Temperature Variations from HST Imagery and Spectroscopy of NGC 7009

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rubin, R. H.; Bhatt, N. J.; Dufour, R. J.; Buckalew, B. A.; Barlow, M. J.; Liu, X.-W.; Storey, P. J.; Balick, B.; Harrington, J. P.; Ferland, G. J.

2002-01-01

We present new HST/WFPC2 imagery and STIS long-slit spectroscopy of the planetary nebula NGC 7009. The primary goal was to obtain high spatial resolution of the intrinsic line ratio [O III] 4364/5008 and thereby evaluate the electron temperature (Te) and the mean-square Te variation (t(sup 2, sub A)) across the nebula. The observations here do not address Te fluctuation along the line of sight. The WFPC2 Te map is rather uniform; almost all values are between 9000 - 11,000 K, with the higher Te's closely coinciding with the inner He(++)-zone. The results indicate very small values - certainly less than 0.01 - for t(sup 2, sub A) throughout. Our STIS data allow an even more direct determination of Te and t(sup 2, sub A), albeit for a much smaller area than with WFPC2. We present results from binning the data along the slit into tiles that are 0.5 in square (matching the slit width). The average [O III] temperature using 45 tiles (excluding the central star and STIS fiducial bars) is 10,146 K; t(sup 2, sub A) is 0.0036. Although we have measured t(sup 2, sub A) in only 2-dimensions, we conclude that temperature fluctuations alone are unlikely to explain for NGC 7009 the large discrepancy between heavy element abundances inferred from emission lines that are collisionally excited compared with those that are due to recombination lines.

The effects of bioactive edible film containing Terminalia arjuna on the stability of some quality attributes of chevon sausages.

PubMed

Kalem, Insha Kousar; Bhat, Z F; Kumar, Sunil; Noor, Sabahu; Desai, Ajay

2018-06-01

The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness of calcium alginate edible films incorporated with Terminalia arjuna on the lipid oxidative stability and storage quality of chevon sausages. Chevon sausages were aerobically packaged in the edible films containing different concentrations of T. arjuna viz. T 1 (0.0%), T 2 (0.50%) and T 3 (1.0%) and were stored under refrigerated (4±1 °C) conditions. A significant improvement was observed in the lipid oxidative stability and microbial quality of the products. Products packaged in T 2 and T 3 films exhibited significantly (P < 0.05) lower values for TBARS (mg malonaldehyde/kg), microbial counts (log cfu/g) and FFA (% oleic acid). Higher (P < 0.05) sensory scores were also observed for the products packaged in T 2 and T 3 films. This study shows that application of a bioactive edible film incorporated with T. arjuna is an effective strategy in retarding the lipid oxidation and storage changes in meat products. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

[Spatial variation in diurnal courses of stem temperature of Betula platyphylla and Fraxinus mandshurica and its influencing factors].

PubMed

Li, Yu Ran; Wang, Xing Chang; Wang, Chuan Kuan; Liu, Fan; Zhang, Quan Zhi

2017-10-01

Plant temperature is an important parameter for estimating energy balance and vegetation respiration of forest ecosystem. To examine spatial variation in diurnal courses of stem temperatures (T s ) and its influencing factors, we measured the T s with copper constantan thermocouples at different depths, heights and azimuths within the stems of two broadleaved tree species with contrasting bark and wood properties, Betula platyphylla and Fraxinus mandshurica. The results showed that the monthly mean diurnal courses of the T s largely followed that of air temperature with a 'sinusoi dal' pattern, but the T s lagged behind the air temperature by 0 h at the stem surface to 4 h at 6 cm depth. The daily maximal values and ranges of the diurnal course of T s decreased gradually with increasing measuring depth across the stem and decreasing measuring height along the stem. The circumferential variation in T s was marginal, with slightly higher daily maximal values in the south and west directions during the daytime of the dormant season. Differences in thermal properties (i.e. , specific heat capacity and thermal conductivity) of both bark and wood tissue between the two species contributed to the inter specific variations in the radial variation in T s through influencing the heat exchange between the stem surface and ambient air as well as heat diffusion within the stem. The higher reflectance of the bark of B. platyphylla decreased the influence of solar radiation on T s . The stepwise regression showed that the diurnal courses of T s could be well predicted by the environmental factors (R 2 > 0.85) with an order of influence ranking as air temperature > water vapor pressure > net radiation > wind speed. It is necessary to take the radial, vertical and inter specific varia-tions in T s into account when estimating biomass heat storage and stem CO2 efflux.

Quasi 2D Ultrahigh Carrier Density in a Complex Oxide Broken Gap Heterojunction

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

Xu, Peng; Droubay, Timothy C.; Jeong, Jong S.

2016-01-21

Two-dimensional (2D) ultra-high carrier densities at complex oxide interfaces are of considerable current research interest for novel plasmonic and high charge-gain devices. However, the highest 2D electron density obtained in oxide heterostructures is thus far limited to 3×1014 cm-2 (½ electron/unit cell/interface) at GdTiO3/SrTiO3 interfaces, and is typically an order of magnitude lower at LaAlO3/SrTiO3 interfaces. Here we show that carrier densities much higher than 3×1014 cm-2 can be achieved via band engineering. Transport measurements for 3 nm SrTiO3/t u.c. NdTiO3/3 nm SrTiO3/LSAT (001) show that charge transfer significantly in excess of the value expected from the polar discontinuity modelmore » occurs for higher t values. The carrier density remains unchanged, and equivalent to ½ electron/unit cell/interface for t < 6 unit cells. However, above a critical NdTiO3 thickness of 6 u.c., electrons from the valence band of NdTiO3 spill over into the SrTiO3 conduction band as a natural consequence of the band alignment. An atomistic model consistent with first-principle calculations and experimental results is proposed for the charge transfer mechanisms. These results may provide an exceptional route to the realization of the room-temperature oxide electronics.« less

Inactivation of CYP2A6 by the Dietary Phenylpropanoid trans-Cinnamic Aldehyde (Cinnamaldehyde) and Estimation of Interactions with Nicotine and Letrozole

PubMed Central

Chan, Jeannine; Oshiro, Tyler; Thomas, Sarah; Higa, Allyson; Black, Stephen; Todorovic, Aleksandar; Elbarbry, Fawzy

2016-01-01

Human exposure to trans-cinnamic aldehyde [t-CA; cinnamaldehyde; cinnamal; (E)-3-phenylprop-2-enal] is common through diet and through the use of cinnamon powder for diabetes and to provide flavor and scent in commercial products. We evaluated the likelihood of t-CA to influence metabolism by inhibition of P450 enzymes. IC50 values from recombinant enzymes indicated that an interaction is most probable for CYP2A6 (IC50 = 6.1 µM). t-CA was 10.5-fold more selective for human CYP2A6 than for CYP2E1; IC50 values for P450s 1A2, 2B6, 2C9, 2C19, 2D6, and 3A4 were 15.8-fold higher or more. t-CA is a type I ligand for CYP2A6 (KS = 14.9 µM). Inhibition of CYP2A6 by t-CA was metabolism-dependent; inhibition required NADPH and increased with time. Glutathione lessened the extent of inhibition modestly and statistically significantly. The carbon monoxide binding spectrum was dramatically diminished after exposure to NADPH and t-CA, suggesting degradation of the heme or CYP2A6 apoprotein. Using a static model and mechanism-based inhibition parameters (KI = 18.0 µM; kinact = 0.056 minute−1), changes in the area under the concentration-time curve (AUC) for nicotine and letrozole were predicted in the presence of t-CA (0.1 and 1 µM). The AUC fold-change ranged from 1.1 to 3.6. In summary, t-CA is a potential source of pharmacokinetic variability for CYP2A6 substrates due to metabolism-dependent inhibition, especially in scenarios when exposure to t-CA is elevated due to high dietary exposure, or when cinnamon is used as a treatment of specific disease states (e.g., diabetes). PMID:26851241

Pressure-induced phase transition in La 1 – x Sm x O 0.5 F 0.5 BiS 2

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

Fang, Y.; Yazici, D.; White, B. D.

Electrical resistivity measurements on La 1–xSm xO 0.5F 0.5BiS 2 (x = 0.1, 0.3, 0.6, 0.8) have been performed under applied pressures up to 2.6 GPa from 2 K to room temperature. The superconducting transition temperature T c of each sample significantly increases at a Sm-concentration dependent pressure P t, indicating a pressure-induced phase transition from a low-T c to a high-T c phase. At ambient pressure, T c increases dramatically from 2.8 K at x = 0.1 to 5.4 K at x = 0.8; however, the T c values at P > P t decrease slightly with x andmore » P t shifts to higher pressures with Sm substitution. In the normal state, semiconducting-like behavior is suppressed and metallic conduction is induced with increasing pressure in all of the samples. Furthermore, these results suggest that the pressure dependence of T c for the BiS 2-based superconductors is related to the lattice parameters at ambient pressure and enable us to estimate the evolution of T c for SmO 0.5F 0.5BiS 2 under pressure.« less

Pressure-induced phase transition in La 1 – x Sm x O 0.5 F 0.5 BiS 2

DOE PAGES

Fang, Y.; Yazici, D.; White, B. D.; ...

2015-09-15

Electrical resistivity measurements on La 1–xSm xO 0.5F 0.5BiS 2 (x = 0.1, 0.3, 0.6, 0.8) have been performed under applied pressures up to 2.6 GPa from 2 K to room temperature. The superconducting transition temperature T c of each sample significantly increases at a Sm-concentration dependent pressure P t, indicating a pressure-induced phase transition from a low-T c to a high-T c phase. At ambient pressure, T c increases dramatically from 2.8 K at x = 0.1 to 5.4 K at x = 0.8; however, the T c values at P > P t decrease slightly with x andmore » P t shifts to higher pressures with Sm substitution. In the normal state, semiconducting-like behavior is suppressed and metallic conduction is induced with increasing pressure in all of the samples. Furthermore, these results suggest that the pressure dependence of T c for the BiS 2-based superconductors is related to the lattice parameters at ambient pressure and enable us to estimate the evolution of T c for SmO 0.5F 0.5BiS 2 under pressure.« less

Mixed higher-order flow harmonics and nonlinear response coefficients in PbPb collisions at 2.76 and 5.02 TeV with CMS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tuo, Shengquan; CMS Collaboration

2017-11-01

The mixed higher-order flow harmonics and nonlinear response coefficients of charged particles are presented as a function of pT and centrality in PbPb collisions at √{sNN} = 2.76 TeV and 5.02 TeV with the CMS detector. The results are obtained using the scalar product method, and cover a pT range from 0.3 GeV/c to 8.0 GeV/c, pseudorapidity | η | < 2.4, and a centrality range of 0-60%. The mixed harmonic results at 5.02 TeV are compared to the matching higher-order flow harmonics from two-particle correlations, which measure vn values with respect to the n-th order event plane. It is observed that the nonlinear response coefficients of the odd harmonics are larger than the even harmonics ones. The results are compared with hydrodynamic predictions using different shear viscosity to entropy density ratios and different initial conditions.

K-t GRAPPA-accelerated 4D flow MRI of liver hemodynamics: influence of different acceleration factors on qualitative and quantitative assessment of blood flow.

PubMed

Stankovic, Zoran; Fink, Jury; Collins, Jeremy D; Semaan, Edouard; Russe, Maximilian F; Carr, James C; Markl, Michael; Langer, Mathias; Jung, Bernd

2015-04-01

We sought to evaluate the feasibility of k-t parallel imaging for accelerated 4D flow MRI in the hepatic vascular system by investigating the impact of different acceleration factors. k-t GRAPPA accelerated 4D flow MRI of the liver vasculature was evaluated in 16 healthy volunteers at 3T with acceleration factors R = 3, R = 5, and R = 8 (2.0 × 2.5 × 2.4 mm(3), TR = 82 ms), and R = 5 (TR = 41 ms); GRAPPA R = 2 was used as the reference standard. Qualitative flow analysis included grading of 3D streamlines and time-resolved particle traces. Quantitative evaluation assessed velocities, net flow, and wall shear stress (WSS). Significant scan time savings were realized for all acceleration factors compared to standard GRAPPA R = 2 (21-71 %) (p < 0.001). Quantification of velocities and net flow offered similar results between k-t GRAPPA R = 3 and R = 5 compared to standard GRAPPA R = 2. Significantly increased leakage artifacts and noise were seen between standard GRAPPA R = 2 and k-t GRAPPA R = 8 (p < 0.001) with significant underestimation of peak velocities and WSS of up to 31 % in the hepatic arterial system (p <0.05). WSS was significantly underestimated up to 13 % in all vessels of the portal venous system for k-t GRAPPA R = 5, while significantly higher values were observed for the same acceleration with higher temporal resolution in two veins (p < 0.05). k-t acceleration of 4D flow MRI is feasible for liver hemodynamic assessment with acceleration factors R = 3 and R = 5 resulting in a scan time reduction of at least 40 % with similar quantitation of liver hemodynamics compared with GRAPPA R = 2.

Magnetic field effects on electron transfer reactions involving sextet-spin ( S = 5/2) intermediates generated on photoexcitation of a Cr(III)-porphyrin complex

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mori, Yukie; Hoshino, Mikio; Hayashi, Hisaharu

The excited trip-sextet ( 6 T 1 ) state of chloro-(3-methylimidazol)-( meso -tetraphenylporphyrinato) chromium(III) (Cr III P) is quenched by 1,1 '-dibenzyl-4,4 '-bipyridinium (BV 2+ ) in acetonitrile through electron transfer to give 5 (Cr III P .+ ) and 2 BV .+ . The intermediate is a geminate ion pair in the sextet (Sx) state 6 [ 5 (Cr III P .+ ) 2 BV .+ ], which decays through either the escape from a solvent cage to give the free ions or the spin conversion to the quartet (Qa) state followed by back electron transfer. The free ion yield ( ΦFI ) increased with increasing magnetic field from 0 to 4 T and then slightly decreased from 4 T to 10 T. These magnetic field effects are explained as follows. Under low fields where the Zeeman splitting of the spin sublevels is lower than or comparable with the electron spin dipole-dipole interaction within 5 (Cr III P .+ ), this interaction effectively induces the Sx ⇔Qa conversion of [ 5 (Cr III P .+ ) 2 BV + ] to result in low ΦFI values. Under high fields where the Zeeman splitting is larger than the dipole-dipole interaction, the Sx Qa conversion is decreased with increasing field to cause higher ΦFI values. The slight decrease in ΦFI above 4 T may be due to the Δg mechanism.

Magnetic Resonance T2-Relaxometry and 2D L-Correlated Spectroscopy in Patients with Minimal Hepatic Encephalopathy

PubMed Central

Singhal, Aparna; Nagarajan, Rajakumar; Kumar, Rajesh; Huda, Amir; Gupta, Rakesh K.; Thomas, M. Albert

2010-01-01

Purpose To evaluate T2-relaxation changes in patients with minimal hepatic encephalopathy (MHE) using T2-relaxometry and to correlate T2 values with brain metabolites evaluated using two-dimensional (2D) magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS). Materials and Methods Eight MHE patients and 13 healthy subjects were evaluated using T2-relaxometry, and 8 patients and 9 healthy subjects underwent 2D MRS in right frontal and left occipital regions. Whole brain T2-relaxation maps were compared between MHE and control subjects using analysis-of-covariance, with age and gender included as covariates. T2 values derived from the right frontal and left occipital lobes were correlated with the metabolite ratios. Results Multiple brain regions including anterior and mid cingulate cortices, right anterior and left posterior insular cortices, right prefrontal, medial frontal, and right superior temporal cortices showed significantly increased T2 values in MHE patients compared to control subjects. MRS showed significantly increased ratios of glutamine/glutamate (Glx) and decreased ratios of myo-inositol, taurine, choline, and myo-inositol/choline (mICh) with respect to creatine (Cr_d) in patients compared to controls. Frontal Glx/Cr_d showed significantly positive correlation with T2 values. Conclusion MHE patients showed significantly increased T2 values in multiple brain regions reflecting increased free water content and T2 values in frontal lobe correlated with the increased Glx/Cr_d ratio. PMID:19856435

Melatonin and cryptochrome 2 in metabolic syndrome patients with or without diabetes: a cross-sectional study.

PubMed

Al-Sarraf, Ibrahim Abdul Kareem; Kasabri, Violet; Akour, Amal; Naffa, Randa

2018-05-29

Background Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a cluster of metabolic risk factors which increases the chances for future cardiovascular diseases, as well as diabetes. The underlying causes of MetS include overweight and obesity, physical inactivity and genetic factors. Our intension here was to focus in this study on the importance of the chronobiology, represented by melatonin (MT) and cryptochrome 2 (CRY2), in developing MetS and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Thus, we aimed to compare MT and CRY2 plasma levels and correlate both biomarkers with adiposity, atherogenicity and hematological indices in MetS and T2DM cohorts. Methods In a cross-sectional study, 28 normoglycemic lean subjects (controls), 29 normoglycemic MetS subjects and 30 MetS (pre-diabetic/diabetic) were recruited. Results MT (pg/mL) was elevated significantly in MetS arm p-value < 0.05, whereas CRY2 levels (ng/mL) were markedly higher in both MetS groups (non-diabetic and pre-diabetic/diabetic) (all with p-value < 0.001). A reciprocal MT-CRY2 relationship was observed in the MetS (non-diabetic) group (p-value = 0.003). Of note in the total study population, both MT and CRY2 proportionally correlated with each of the following: atherogenicity index of plasma (AIP), waist circumference (WC) and systolic blood pressure (SBP) (all with p-value < 0.05) for MT and CRY2, respectively). Whereas MT correlated inversely with high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) (p-value < 0.05). Additionally, CRY2 correlated directly with each of the following: diastolic blood pressure (DBP), total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein (LDL-C), hip circumference (HC), body adiposity index (BAI), weight-to-height (WHtR) ratio, mean platelet volume (MPV) and platelet/lymphocyte ratio (PLR) (p-value < 0.05). Conclusion These findings substantiate that both metabolic risk biomarkers can be prognostic tools and pharmacotherapeutic targets to slowdown the accelerated nature of T2DM.

Toward precise QEC values for the superallowed 0+→0+ β decays of T=2 nuclides: The masses of Na20, Al24, P28, and Cl32

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wrede, C.; Clark, J. A.; Deibel, C. M.; Faestermann, T.; Hertenberger, R.; Parikh, A.; Wirth, H.-F.; Bishop, S.; Chen, A. A.; Eppinger, K.; García, A.; Krücken, R.; Lepyoshkina, O.; Rugel, G.; Setoodehnia, K.

2010-05-01

High-precision measurements of superallowed 0+→0+ β decays of T=2 nuclides such as Mg20, Si24, S28, and Ar32 can contribute to searches for physics beyond the standard model of particle physics if the QEC values are accurate to a few keV or better. As a step toward providing precise QEC values for these decays, the ground-state masses of the respective daughter nuclei Na20, Al24, P28, and Cl32 have been determined by measuring the (He3,t) reactions leading to them with the Ar36(He3,t)K36 reaction as a calibration. A quadrupole-dipole-dipole-dipole (Q3D) magnetic spectrograph was used together with thin ion-implanted carbon-foil targets of Ne20, Mg24, Si28, S32, and Ar36. The masses of Na20 and Cl32 are found to be in good agreement with the values from the 2003 Atomic Mass Evaluation (AME03) [G. Audi, A. H. Wapstra, and C. Thibault, Nucl. Phys. ANUPABL0375-947410.1016/j.nuclphysa.2003.11.003 729, 337 (2003)], and the precision has been improved by a factor of 6 in both cases. The masses of Al24 and P28 are found to be higher than the values from AME03 by 9.5 keV (3.2σ) and 11.5 keV (3.6σ), respectively, and the precision has been improved by a factor of 2.5 in both cases. The new Cl32 mass is used together with the excitation energy of its lowest T=2 level and the mass of Ar32 to derive an improved superallowed QEC value of 6087.3(22) keV for this case. The effects on quantities related to standard-model tests including the β-ν correlation coefficient a and the isospin-symmetry-breaking correction δC are examined for the A=32 case.

Enhanced degradation and soil depth effects on the fate of atrazine and major metabolites in Colorado and Mississippi soils.

PubMed

Krutz, L Jason; Shaner, Dale L; Zablotowicz, Robert M

2010-01-01

The aim of this report is to inform modelers of the differences in atrazine fate between s-triazine-adapted and nonadapted soils as a function of depth in the profile and to recommend atrazine and metabolite input values for pesticide process submodules. The objectives of this study were to estimate the atrazine-mineralizing bacterial population, cumulative atrazine mineralization, atrazine persistence, and metabolite (desethylatrazine [DEA], deisopropylatrazine [DIA], and hydroxyatrazine [HA]) formation and degradation in Colorado and Mississippi s-triazine-adapted and nonadapted soils at three depths (0-5, 5-15, and 15-30 cm). Regardless of depth, the AMBP and cumulative atrazine mineralization was at least 3.8-fold higher in s-triazine-adapted than nonadapted soils. Atrazine half-life (T1/2) values pooled over nonadapted soils and depths approximated historic estimates (T1/2 = 60 d). Atrazine persistence in all depths of s-triazine-adapted soils was at least fourfold lower than that of the nonadapted soil. Atrazine metabolite concentrations were lower in s-triazine-adapted than in nonadapted soil by 35 d after incubation regardless of depth. Results indicate that (i) reasonable fate and transport modeling of atrazine will require identifying if soils are adapted to s-triazine herbicides. For example, our data confirm the 60-d T1/2 for atrazine in nonadapted soils, but a default input value of 6 d for atrazine is required for s-triazine adapted soils. (ii) Literature estimates for DEA, DIA, and HA T1/2 values in nonadapted soils are 52, 36, and 60 d, respectively, whereas our analysis indicates that reasonable T1/2 values for s-triazine-adapted soils are 10 d for DEA, 8 d for DIA, and 6 d for HA. (iii) An estimate for the relative distribution of DIA, DEA, and HA produced in nonadapted soils is 18, 72, and 10% of parent, respectively. In s-triazine-adapted soils, the values were 6, 23, and 71% for DIA, DEA, and HA, respectively. The effects of soil adaptation on metabolite distribution need to be confirmed in field experiments.

Antibacterial and antioxidant activities of essential oils isolated from Thymbra capitata L. (Cav.) andOriganum vulgare L.

PubMed

Faleiro, Leonor; Miguel, Graça; Gomes, Sónia; Costa, Ludmila; Venâncio, Florencia; Teixeira, Adriano; Figueiredo, A Cristina; Barroso, José G; Pedro, Luis G

2005-10-19

Antilisterial activities of Thymbra capitata and Origanum vulgare essential oils were tested against 41 strains of Listeria monocytogenes. The oil of T. capitata was mainly constituted by one component, carvacrol (79%), whereas for O. vulgare three components constituted 70% of the oil, namely, thymol (33%), gamma-terpinene (26%), and p-cymene (11%). T. capitata essential oil had a significantly higher antilisterial activity in comparison to O. vulgare oil and chloramphenicol. No significant differences in L. monocytogenes susceptibilities to the essential oils tested were registered. The minimum inhibitory concentration values of T. capitata essential oil and of carvacrol were quite similar, ranging between 0.05 and 0.2 microL/mL. Antioxidant activity was also tested, the essential oil of T. capitata showing significantly higher antioxidant activity than that of O. vulgare. Use of T. capitata and O. vulgare essential oils can constitute a powerful tool in the control of L. monocytogenes in food and other industries.

Effect of pill burden on dosing preferences, willingness to pay, and likely adherence among patients with type 2 diabetes

PubMed Central

Hauber, A Brett; Han, Steven; Yang, Jui-Chen; Gantz, Ira; Tunceli, Kaan; Gonzalez, Juan Marcos; Brodovicz, Kimberly; Alexander, Charles M; Davies, Michael; Iglay, Kristy; Zhang, Qiaoyi; Radican, Larry

2013-01-01

Purpose To quantify willingness-to-pay (WTP) for reducing pill burden and dosing frequency among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and to examine the effect of dosing frequency and pill burden on likely medication adherence. Patients and methods Participants were US adults with T2DM on oral antihyperglycemic therapy. Each patient completed an online discrete-choice experiment (DCE) with eight choice questions, each including a pair of hypothetical medication profiles. Each profile was defined by reduction in average glucose (AG), daily dosing, chance of mild-to-moderate stomach problems, frequency of hypoglycemia, weight change, incremental risk of congestive heart failure (CHF), and cost. Patients were asked to rate their likely adherence to the profiles presented in each question. Choice questions were based on a predetermined experimental design. Choice data were analyzed using random-parameters logit. Likely treatment adherence was analyzed using a Heckman two-stage model. Results Of the 1,114 patients who completed the survey, 90 had lower dosing burden (<5 pills/day taken once/day or as needed) for all medications, and 1,024 had higher dosing burden (≥5 pills/day or more than once/day). Reduction in AG was valued most highly by patients. Hypoglycemia, chance of mild-to-moderate stomach problems, weight change, incremental risk of CHF, and daily dosing were less valued. Patients with higher current dosing burden had lower WTP for more convenient dosing schedules than patients with lower current dosing burden. Changes in dosing and cost impacted likely adherence. The magnitude of the impact of dosing on likely adherence was higher for patients with lower current dosing burden than for patients with higher current dosing burden. Conclusion Patients with T2DM were willing to pay for improvements in efficacy, side effects, and dosing. Patients’ WTP for more convenient dosing depended on current dosing burden, as did the effect of these attributes on likely adherence. PMID:24086104

Evaluation of eNOS gene polymorphisms in relation to BMD in postmenopausal women.

PubMed

Firat, Sibel Cubukcu; Cetin, Zafer; Samanci, Nehir; Aydin, Funda; Balci, Nilufer; Gungor, Firat; Firat, Mehmet Ziya; Luleci, Guven; Karauzum, Sibel Berker

2009-08-20

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the relations between T(-786)C and Glu298Asp polymorphisms of the endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) gene and BMD in postmenopausal Turkish women. The T(-786)C and Glu298Asp polymorphisms were genotyped by PCR-RFLP method in 311 postmenopausal osteoporotic women (OP) and in 305 age-matched postmenopausal females (CG) with normal BMD. None of the SNPs of the eNOS gene was significantly associated with BMD at the lumbar spine, femoral neck, Ward's triangle and femoral trochanter in the combined group. Mean BMD values were therefore found to be similar across the genotypes in postmenopausal Turkish women. However, there was a significant association between the T(-786)C polymorphism and BMD values at the lumbar spine in the normal control group (P=0.005), and at the femoral trochanter in the osteoporotic patients (P=0.046). The mean value of the lumbar spine BMD in the normal controls was significantly higher in women with the TC genotype of the T(-786)C polymorphism than in women with the TT genotype (P=0.0012). Women with the CC genotype of the T(-786)C polymorphism in the osteoporotic patients had significantly higher BMD value at the femoral trochanter than those with the TC (P=0.018) and TT genotypes (P=0.024). Frequencies of the TC heterozygotes for T(-786)C polymorphism were significantly higher among osteoporotic subjects than normal controls. Also, the CC and TT genotype frequencies of control group were significantly higher than those of the osteoporotic group at the femoral neck. We conclude that, although the biological role of the nitric oxide synthases is well established, our study does not suggest that eNOS gene polymorphisms, T(-786)C and Glu298Asp, are major contributors to adult bone mineral density in the postmenopausal Turkish women.

Magnetic resonance imaging evaluation of treatment efficacy and prognosis for brain metastases in lung cancer patients after radiotherapy: A preliminary study.

PubMed

Liu, Yuhui; Liu, Xibin; Xu, Liang; Liu, Liheng; Sun, Yuhong; Li, Minghuan; Zeng, Haiyan; Yuan, Shuanghu; Yu, Jinming

2018-05-17

This study used magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to monitor changes to brain metastases and investigate the imaging signs used to evaluate treatment efficacy and determine prognosis following radiotherapy for brain metastases from lung cancer. A total of 60 non-small cell lung cancer patients with brain oligometastases were selected. MRI scans were conducted before and 3, 6, 9, 12, 18, 24, and 30 months after radiotherapy. The tumor and peritumoral edema diameters, Cho/Cr values, elevation of the Lip peak value, and whether the island (yu-yuan) sign or high-signal ring were present on T2 fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) imaging were recorded for each metastasis. The mortality risk was higher the earlier the maximum value of peritumoral edema diameter was reached, when there were fewer island signs, and when brain metastases did not present as tumor progression on imaging. There were significant differences in the average peritumoral edema diameter, apparent diffusion coefficient value, the number of elevated Lip peak values, and the number of T2 FLAIR imaging high-signal rings in a year after radiotherapy in 14 patients with a survival period < 1 year compared to patients with a survival period > 2 years. After radiotherapy for brain metastases, patients with the island sign had longer survival periods, high-signal rings in T2 FLAIR, elevated Lip peaks, and reduced apparent diffusion coefficient values, indicating tumor necrosis. Increased diameter of metastases and Cho/Cr > 2 cannot serve as reliable indicators of brain metastasis progression. © 2018 The Authors. Thoracic Cancer published by China Lung Oncology Group and John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd.

Maturation of Rb+ and PAH accumulation by rabbit anterior uvea and choroid plexus

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

Krupin, T.; Fritz, C.; Becker, B.

In vitro accumulation of radioactive para-aminohippuric acid (/sup 3/H-PAH) and rubidium (/sup 86/Rb+) by the anterior uvea, ciliary processes, and the choroid plexus was evaluated in tissues from newborn and various aged rabbits. Accumulation of PAH was present in the anterior uvea at 1 day of age (tissue to media ratio, T/M, of 2.1 +/- 0.2) and remained at this level for the first 14 days of life. Accumulation did not rise to adult levels until 21 days of age (T/M 5.5 +/- 0.6). Rubidium accumulation in the anterior uvea, a measure of Na+, K+-pump activity, was higher than adultmore » values 6 hr after birth (T/M25.2 +/- 0.9). Activity remained elevated through day 28 and did not fall to adult levels until day 60 (T/M 13.4 +/- 0.6). Accumulation studies on isolated ciliary processes were similar to those obtained from anterior uveal tissue. Daily subcutaneous injections of penicillin (300,000 units/kg/day) for 1 week had no effect on anterior uvea PAH accumulation (penicillin T/M was 1.7 +/- 0.1 and saline control T/M was 2.0 +/- 0.2). Accumulation of either /sup 3/H-PAH or /sup 86/Rb+ by the choroid plexus was present 1 day after birth in amounts that were similar to adult values and did not change during the 90 days of testing.« less

Functional cartilage MRI T2 mapping: evaluating the effect of age and training on knee cartilage response to running.

PubMed

Mosher, T J; Liu, Y; Torok, C M

2010-03-01

To characterize effects of age and physical activity level on cartilage thickness and T2 response immediately after running. Institutional review board approval was obtained and all subjects provided informed consent prior to study participation. Cartilage thickness and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) T2 values of 22 marathon runners and 15 sedentary controls were compared before and after 30 min of running. Runner and control groups were stratified by ageor=46 years. Multi-echo [(Time to Repetition (TR)/Time to Echo (TE) 1500 ms/9-109 ms)] MR images obtained using a 3.0 T scanner were used to calculate thickness and T2 values from the central femoral and tibial cartilage. Baseline cartilage T2 values, and change in cartilage thickness and T2 values after running were compared between the four groups using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). After running MRI T2 values decreased in superficial femoral (2 ms-4 ms) and tibial (1 ms-3 ms) cartilage along with a decrease in cartilage thickness: (femoral: 4%-8%, tibial: 0%-12%). Smaller decrease in cartilage T2 values were observed in the middle zone of cartilage, and no change was observed in the deepest layer. There was no difference cartilage deformation or T2 response to running as a function of age or level of physical activity. Running results in a measurable decrease in cartilage thickness and MRI T2 values of superficial cartilage consistent with greater compressibility of the superficial cartilage layer. Age and level of physical activity did not alter the T2 response to running. Copyright 2009 Osteoarthritis Research Society International. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The Ability of the Eating Assessment Tool-10 to Detect Aspiration in Patients With Neurological Disorders

PubMed Central

Arslan, Selen Serel; Demir, Numan; Kılınç, Hasan E; Karaduman, Aynur A

2017-01-01

Background/Aims Dysphagia is common in patients with neurological disorders. There is a need to identify patients at risk early by a useful clinical tool to prevent its serious complications. The study aims to determine the ability of the Turkish version of Eating Assessment Tool-10 (T-EAT-10) to detect aspiration in patients with neurological disorders. Methods Two hundred fifty-nine patients with neurological disorders who had complaints about swallowing difficulty and referred for a swallowing evaluation were included. Oropharyngeal dysphagia was evaluated with the T-EAT-10 and videofluoroscopic swallowing study in the same day. The penetration-aspiration scale (PAS) was used to document the penetration and aspiration severity. Results The mean age of the patients was 59.72 ± 17.24 years (minimum [min] = 18, maximum [max] = 96), of which 57.1% were male. The mean T-EAT-10 of patients who had aspiration (PAS > 5) was 25.91 ± 10.31 (min = 1, max = 40) and the mean T-EAT-10 of patients who did not have aspiration (PAS < 6) was 15.70 ± 10.54 (min = 0, max = 40) (P < 0.001). Patients with a T-EAT-10 score higher than 15 were 2.4 times more likely to aspirate. A linear correlation was found between T-EAT-10 and PAS scores of the patients (r = 0.416, P < 0.001). The sensitivity of a T-EAT-10 higher than 15 in detecting aspiration was 81.0% and the specificity was 58.0%. A T-EAT-10 score of higher than 15 has a positive predictive value of 72.0% and a negative predictive value of 69.0%. Conclusion The T-EAT-10 can be used to detect unsafe airway protection in neurology clinics to identify and refer dysphagic patients for further evaluation. PMID:28545185

Intensive insulin treatment improves forearm blood flow in critically ill patients: a randomized parallel design clinical trial.

PubMed

Žuran, Ivan; Poredos, Pavel; Skale, Rafael; Voga, Gorazd; Gabrscek, Lucija; Pareznik, Roman

2009-01-01

Intensive insulin treatment of critically ill patients was seen as a promising method of treatment, though recent studies showed that reducing the blood glucose level below 6 mmol/l had a detrimental outcome. The mechanisms of the effects of insulin in the critically ill are not completely understood. The purpose of the study was to test the hypothesis that intensive insulin treatment may influence forearm blood flow independently of global hemodynamic indicators. The study encompassed 29 patients of both sexes who were admitted to the intensive care unit due to sepsis and required artificial ventilation as the result of acute respiratory failure. 14 patients were randomly selected for intensive insulin treatment (Group 1; blood glucose concentration 4.4-6.1 mmol/l), and 15 were selected for conventional insulin treatment (Group 2; blood glucose level 7.0 mmol/l-11.0 mmol/l). At the start of the study (t0, beginning up to 48 hours after admittance and the commencement of artificial ventilation), at 2 hours (t1), 24 hours (t2), and 72 hours (t3) flow in the forearm was measured for 60 minutes using the strain-gauge plethysmography method. Student's t-test of independent samples was used for comparisons between the two groups, and Mann-Whitney's U-test where appropriate. Linear regression analysis and the Pearson correlation coefficient were used to determine the levels of correlation. The difference in 60-minute forearm flow at the start of the study (t0) was not statistically significant between groups, while at t2 and t3 significantly higher values were recorded in Group 1 (t2; Group 1: 420.6 +/- 188.8 ml/100 ml tissue; Group 2: 266.1 +/- 122.2 ml/100 ml tissue (95% CI 30.9-278.0, P = 0.02); t3; Group 1: 369.9 +/- 150.3 ml/100 ml tissue; Group 2: 272.6 +/- 85.7 ml/100 ml tissue (95% CI 5.4-190.0, P = 0.04). At t1 a trend towards significantly higher values in Group 1 was noted (P = 0.05). The level of forearm flow was related to the amount of insulin infusion (r = 0.40). Compared to standard treatment, intensive insulin treatment of critically ill patients increases forearm flow. Flow increase was weakly related to the insulin dose, though not to blood glucose concentration. ISRCTN39026810.

Intensive insulin treatment improves forearm blood flow in critically ill patients: a randomized parallel design clinical trial

PubMed Central

2009-01-01

Introduction Intensive insulin treatment of critically ill patients was seen as a promising method of treatment, though recent studies showed that reducing the blood glucose level below 6 mmol/l had a detrimental outcome. The mechanisms of the effects of insulin in the critically ill are not completely understood. The purpose of the study was to test the hypothesis that intensive insulin treatment may influence forearm blood flow independently of global hemodynamic indicators. Methods The study encompassed 29 patients of both sexes who were admitted to the intensive care unit due to sepsis and required artificial ventilation as the result of acute respiratory failure. 14 patients were randomly selected for intensive insulin treatment (Group 1; blood glucose concentration 4.4-6.1 mmol/l), and 15 were selected for conventional insulin treatment (Group 2; blood glucose level 7.0 mmol/l-11.0 mmol/l). At the start of the study (t0, beginning up to 48 hours after admittance and the commencement of artificial ventilation), at 2 hours (t1), 24 hours (t2), and 72 hours (t3) flow in the forearm was measured for 60 minutes using the strain-gauge plethysmography method. Student's t-test of independent samples was used for comparisons between the two groups, and Mann-Whitney's U-test where appropriate. Linear regression analysis and the Pearson correlation coefficient were used to determine the levels of correlation. Results The difference in 60-minute forearm flow at the start of the study (t0) was not statistically significant between groups, while at t2 and t3 significantly higher values were recorded in Group 1 (t2; Group 1: 420.6 ± 188.8 ml/100 ml tissue; Group 2: 266.1 ± 122.2 ml/100 ml tissue (95% CI 30.9-278.0, P = 0.02); t3; Group 1: 369.9 ± 150.3 ml/100 ml tissue; Group 2: 272.6 ± 85.7 ml/100 ml tissue (95% CI 5.4-190.0, P = 0.04). At t1 a trend towards significantly higher values in Group 1 was noted (P = 0.05). The level of forearm flow was related to the amount of insulin infusion (r = 0.40). Conclusions Compared to standard treatment, intensive insulin treatment of critically ill patients increases forearm flow. Flow increase was weakly related to the insulin dose, though not to blood glucose concentration. Trial Registration Trial number: ISRCTN39026810. PMID:20003200

Patellofemoral Instability in Children: Correlation Between Risk Factors, Injury Patterns, and Severity of Cartilage Damage.

PubMed

Kim, Hee Kyung; Shiraj, Sahar; Kang, Chang Ho; Anton, Christopher; Kim, Dong Hoon; Horn, Paul S

2016-06-01

The purpose of this study was to compare MRI findings between groups with and without patellofemoral instability and to correlate the MRI findings with the severity of patellar cartilage damage. Fifty-three children with patellofemoral instability and 53 age- and sex-matched children without patellofemoral instability (15.9 ± 2.4 years) were included. Knee MRI with T2-weighted mapping was performed. On MR images, femoral trochlear dysplasia, patellofemoral malalignment, medial retinaculum injury, and bone marrow edema were documented. The degree of patellar cartilage damage was evaluated on MR images by use of a morphologic grading scale (0-4) and on T2 maps with mean T2 values at the medial, central, and lateral facets. MRI findings were compared between the two groups. In cases of patellofemoral instability, MRI findings were correlated with the severity of cartilage damage at each region. Trochlear structure and alignment were significantly different between the two groups (Wilcoxon p < 0.0001). In patellofemoral instability, a high-riding patella was associated with central patellar cartilage damage with a higher morphologic grade and T2 value (Spearman p < 0.05). The severity of medial retinacular injury and presence of bone marrow edema at either the medial patella or the lateral femoral condyle were associated with a higher grade of medial patellar cartilage damage (Wilcoxon p < 0.05). None of the other findings correlated with the severity of patellar cartilage damage. Patients with patellofemoral instability have significantly different trochlear structure and alignment than those who do not, and these differences are known risk factors for patellofemoral instability. However, the only risk factors or injury patterns that directly correlated with the severity of patellar cartilage damage were patella alta, medial stabilizer injury, and bone marrow edema.

Seasonal Variation in Blood Pressure in 162,135 Patients With Type 1 or Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus.

PubMed

Hermann, Julia M; Rosenbauer, Joachim; Dost, Axel; Steigleder-Schweiger, Claudia; Kiess, Wieland; Schöfl, Christof; Holl, Reinhard W

2016-04-01

Seasonal variation in blood pressure (BP) has been observed in different populations. However, only few studies have focused on BP seasonality in diabetic patients. This study examined the seasonal patterns in BP in 62,589 patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) and in 99,546 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) from the German/Austrian Diabetes Follow-up Registry. Adjusted mean BP values revealed seasonal cycles of 12 months, with higher BP in colder months. Using harmonic regression models, the estimated systolic BP difference throughout the year was 2.28/2.48 mm Hg in T1DM/T2DM (both P<.001). Interestingly, seasonal variation in diastolic BP was larger in T1DM than in T2DM (1.24/0.64 mm Hg, P<.001). A sex difference was observed in T1DM only, while age differences occurred in both types of diabetes. Correlations between BP and potentially related factors such as outdoor temperature indicated that reasons underlying BP seasonality are likely to be complex and vary by subgroup. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

High Resolution Qualitative and Quantitative MR Evaluation of the Glenoid Labrum

PubMed Central

Iwasaki, Kenyu; Tafur, Monica; Chang, Eric Y.; SherondaStatum; Biswas, Reni; Tran, Betty; Bae, Won C.; Du, Jiang; Bydder, Graeme M.; Chung, Christine B.

2015-01-01

Objective To implement qualitative and quantitative MR sequences for the evaluation of labral pathology. Methods Six glenoid labra were dissected and the anterior and posterior portions were divided into normal, mildly degenerated, or severely degenerated groups using gross and MR findings. Qualitative evaluation was performed using T1-weighted, proton density-weighted (PD), spoiled gradient echo (SPGR) and ultra-short echo time (UTE) sequences. Quantitative evaluation included T2 and T1rho measurements as well as T1, T2*, and T1rho measurements acquired with UTE techniques. Results SPGR and UTE sequences best demonstrated labral fiber structure. Degenerated labra had a tendency towards decreased T1 values, increased T2/T2* values and increased T1 rho values. T2* values obtained with the UTE sequence allowed for delineation between normal, mildly degenerated and severely degenerated groups (p<0.001). Conclusion Quantitative T2* measurements acquired with the UTE technique are useful for distinguishing between normal, mildly degenerated and severely degenerated labra. PMID:26359581

Multivariate linear regression analysis to identify general factors for quantitative predictions of implant stability quotient values

PubMed Central

Huang, Hairong; Xu, Zanzan; Shao, Xianhong; Wismeijer, Daniel; Sun, Ping; Wang, Jingxiao

2017-01-01

Objectives This study identified potential general influencing factors for a mathematical prediction of implant stability quotient (ISQ) values in clinical practice. Methods We collected the ISQ values of 557 implants from 2 different brands (SICace and Osstem) placed by 2 surgeons in 336 patients. Surgeon 1 placed 329 SICace implants, and surgeon 2 placed 113 SICace implants and 115 Osstem implants. ISQ measurements were taken at T1 (immediately after implant placement) and T2 (before dental restoration). A multivariate linear regression model was used to analyze the influence of the following 11 candidate factors for stability prediction: sex, age, maxillary/mandibular location, bone type, immediate/delayed implantation, bone grafting, insertion torque, I-stage or II-stage healing pattern, implant diameter, implant length and T1-T2 time interval. Results The need for bone grafting as a predictor significantly influenced ISQ values in all three groups at T1 (weight coefficients ranging from -4 to -5). In contrast, implant diameter consistently influenced the ISQ values in all three groups at T2 (weight coefficients ranging from 3.4 to 4.2). Other factors, such as sex, age, I/II-stage implantation and bone type, did not significantly influence ISQ values at T2, and implant length did not significantly influence ISQ values at T1 or T2. Conclusions These findings provide a rational basis for mathematical models to quantitatively predict the ISQ values of implants in clinical practice. PMID:29084260

Sea level trends and NAO influences: The Bristol Channel/Severn Estuary

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Phillips, M. R.; Crisp, S.

2010-09-01

Fifteen years, 1993 (earliest available) to 2007 inclusive of monthly mean and extreme (maximum and minimum) sea level data were assessed for four tide gauges located in the Bristol Channel (Mumbles and Ilfracombe) and Severn Estuary (Newport and Hinkley Point). Results showed decreasing maximum sea level trends and increasing minimum sea level trends, resulting in convergence. However, maximum extreme sea levels on the Welsh shoreline (Mumbles and Newport) were higher than corresponding locations on the English coast (Ilfracombe and Hinkley Point). Analysis showed that from 1995 to 1998 inclusive, maximum extreme sea levels were significantly higher at Mumbles (t = 2.342; df = 10; p < 0.05), Newport (t = 5.034; df = 13; p < 0.01) and Hinkley Point (t = 3.570; df = 13; p < 0.01) and were correlated to increased storm frequencies during these years. However, Ilfracombe (t = 1.472; df = 12; p > 0.05) did not demonstrate similar significance, possibly due to tide gauge location and coastal aspect, while tidal influences became more dominant as the tidal prism moved up the estuary. Actual mean sea levels (MSL) at Newport (t = 2.880; df = 14; p < 0.05) and Hinkley Point (t = 5.282; df = 14; p < 0.01) were significantly higher than predicted; at Mumbles (t = 2.673; df = 11; p < 0.05) they were significantly lower than predicted; while Ilfracombe (t = 1.989; df = 13; p > 0.05) once again showed no significant difference. Mumbles is the only location with off-shore sand waves and analysis suggested these as the cause of opposite trends. Sea level variation was strongly correlated to the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) Index, especially for maximum extreme sea levels during positive phases (R 2 = 86%), and higher positive or negative NAO Index values resulted in larger sea level ranges. Further analysis showed a rising Bristol Channel and Severn Estuary MSL trend of 2.4 mm yr - 1 and a 2050 MSL of 0.370 m is projected to inform future management. However, continuous updating and refinement of the sea level datasets will be needed.

Is overhydration in peritoneal dialysis patients associated with cardiac mortality that might be reversible?

PubMed

Oei, Elizabeth; Paudel, Klara; Visser, Annemarie; Finney, Hazel; Fan, Stanley L

2016-09-06

To study the relationship between overhydration (OH) in peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients and cardiac mortality. OH, as measured by body composition monitor (BCM), is associated with increased mortality in dialysis patients. BCM has been used to guide treatment on the assumption that correcting OH will improve cardiac morbidity and mortality although data demonstrating causality that is reversible is limited. We wished to determine if OH in PD patients predicted cardiac mortality, and if there was a correlation between OH and cardiac troponin-T (cTnT) levels. Finally, we wished to determine if improving OH values would lead to a decrement in cTnT. All prevalent PD patients over the study period of 57 mo who had contemporaneous BCM and cTnT measurements were followed irrespective of transplantation or PD technique failure. We also studied a cohort of patients with who had severe OH (> +2L). The Fresenius Body Composition Monitor was used to obtain hydration parameters. cTnT levels were done as part of routine clinical care. Data was analysed using SPSS version 20.0. There were 48 deaths in the 336 patients. The patients that died from cardiac or non-cardiac causes were similar with respect to their age, incidence of diabetes mellitus, gender, ethnicity and cause of renal failure. However, the patients with cardiac causes of death had significantly shorter dialysis vintage (10.3 mo vs 37.0 mo, P < 0.0001) and were significantly more overhydrated by BCM measurement (2.95 L vs 1.35 L, P < 0.05). The mean (standard error of the means) hydration status of the 336 patients was +1.15 (0.12) L and the median [interquartile range (IQR)] cTnT level was 43.5 (20-90) ng/L. The cTnT results were not normally distributed and were therefore transformed logarithmically. There was a statistically significant correlation between Log (cTnT) with the OH value (Spearman r value 0.425, P < 0.0001). We identified a sub-group of patients that were severely overhydrated; median (IQR) hydration at baseline was +2.7 (2.3 to 3.7) L. They were followed up for a minimum of 6 mo. Reduction in OH values in these patients over 6 mo correlated with lowering of cTnT levels (Spearman r value 0.29, P < 0.02). Patients that were overhydrated had higher cTnT, and had deaths that were more likely to be cardiac related. Reduction in OH correlated with lowering of cTnT.

Jagua blue derived from Genipa americana L. fruit: A natural alternative to commonly used blue food colorants?

PubMed

Brauch, J E; Zapata-Porras, S P; Buchweitz, M; Aschoff, J K; Carle, R

2016-11-01

Due to consumers' increasing health awareness, food industry aims at replacing synthetic dyes by natural counterparts. The substitution of blue synthetic dyes is particularly challenging since current natural alternatives such as phycocyanin (Spirulina) suffer from poor stability. Jagua blue (produced from Genipa americana L. fruit) might represent a potential novel blue pigment source. However, only little is known about its color properties, and application in food systems. Therefore, the blue color and the stability of Jagua blue were assessed for the first time and compared to commonly used colorants, namely, Spirulina, brilliant blue FCF (Blue no. 1), and indigo carmine (Blue no. 2). The reaction rate of Jagua blue was independent of its concentration, confirming thermal degradation to follow first-order kinetics. Between pH 3.6 and 5.0, the color hue of Jagua blue solutions was similar to that of Blue no. 2. However, Jagua blue revealed markedly higher storage stabilities (t 1/2 =86-105days) than Blue no. 2 (t 1 /2 ≤9days) and was less susceptible to acidic pH of 3.6 (t 1 /2 =86days) than Spirulina (t 1 /2 =70days). High negative b* values (blueness) of colored gelatin gels were only obtained for Jagua blue and Spirulina, and the former exhibited higher light stabilities (t 1 /2 =15days) than Spirulina gels (t 1 /2 =4days). Our findings indicate Jagua blue to be a most promising alternative to synthetic dyes, providing relevant information regarding potential food applications. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Correlation Between Expression of High Temperature Requirement Serine Protease A1 (HtrA1) in Nucleus Pulposus and T2 Value of Magnetic Resonance Imaging.

PubMed

Li, Dapeng; Yue, Jiawei; Jiang, Lu; Huang, Yonghui; Sun, Jifu; Wu, Yan

2017-04-22

BACKGROUND Degrading enzymes play an important role in the process of disc degeneration. The objective of this study was to investigate the correlation between the expression of high temperature requirement serine protease A1 (HtrA1) in the nucleus pulposus and the T2 value of the nucleus pulposus region in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). MATERIAL AND METHODS Thirty-six patients who had undergone surgical excision of the nucleus pulposus were examined by MRI before surgery. Pfirrmann grading of the target intervertebral disc was performed according to the sagittal T2-weighted imaging, and the T2 value of the target nucleus pulposus was measured according to the median sagittal T2 mapping. The correlation between the Pfirrmann grade and the T2 value was analyzed. The expression of HtrA1 in the nucleus pulposus was analyzed by RT-PCR and Western blot. The correlation between the expression of HtrA1 and the T2 value was analyzed. RESULTS The T2 value of the nucleus pulposus region was 33.11-167.91 ms, with an average of 86.64±38.73 ms. According to Spearman correlation analysis, there was a rank correlation between T2 value and Pfirrmann grade (P<0.0001), and the correlation coefficient (rs)=-0.93617. There was a linear correlation between the mRNA level of HtrA1 and T2 value in nucleus pulposus tissues (a=3.88, b=-0.019, F=112.63, P<0.0001), normalized regression coefficient=-0.88. There was a linear correlation between the expression level of HtrA1 protein and the T2 value in the nucleus pulposus tissues (a=3.30, b=-0.016, F=93.15, P<0.0001) and normalized regression coefficient=-0.86. CONCLUSIONS The expression of HtrA1 was strongly related to the T2 value, suggesting that HtrA1 plays an important role in the pathological process of intervertebral disc degeneration.

Diffuse CO2 degassing monitoring for the volcanic surveillance of Tenerife North-East Rift Zone (NERZ) volcano, Canary Islands

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rodríguez, F.; Thomas, G. E.; Wong, T.; García, E.; Melián, G.; Padron, E.; Asensio-Ramos, M.; Hernández, P. A.; Perez, N. M.

2017-12-01

The North East Rift zone of Tenerife Island (NERZ, 210 km2) is one of the three major volcanic rift-zones of the island. The most recent eruptive activity along the NERZ took place in the 1704-1705 period with eruptions of Siete Fuentes, Fasnia and Arafo volcanoes. Since fumarolic activity is nowadays absent at the NERZ, soil CO2 degassing monitoring represent a potential geochemical tool for its volcanic surveillance. The aim of this study is to report the results of the last CO2 efflux survey performed in June 2017, with 658 sampling sites. In-situ measurements of CO2 efflux from the surface environment of the NERZ were performed by means of a portable non-dispersive infrared spectrophotometer (NDIR) following the accumulation chamber method. To quantify the total CO2 emission, soil CO2 efflux spatial distribution maps were constructed using Sequential Gaussian Simulation (SGS) as interpolation method. The diffuse CO2 emission values ranged between 0 - 41.1 g m-2 d-1. The probability plot technique applied to the data allowed to distinguish two different geochemical populations; background (B) and peak (P) represented by 81.8% and 18.2% of the total data, respectively, with geometric means of 3.9 and 15.0 g m-2 d-1, respectively. The average map constructed with 100 equiprobable simulations showed an emission rate of 1,361±35 t d-1. This value relatively higher than the background average of CO2 emission estimated on 415 t d-1 and slightly higher than the background range of 148 t d-1 (-1σ) and 1,189 t d-1 (+1σ) observed at the NERZ. This study reinforces the importance of performing soil CO2 efflux surveys as an effective surveillance volcanic tool in the NERZ.

The Effects of a 10-day Altitude Training Camp at 1828 Meters on Varsity Cross-Country Runners

PubMed Central

DIEBEL, SEBASTIAN R.; NEWHOUSE, IAN; THOMPSON, DAVID S.; JOHNSON, VINEET B.K.

2017-01-01

Altitude training has been shown to alter blood lactate (BL) levels due to alterations resulting from acclimatization. This study aims to estimate the impact of altitude training on BL changes immediately following an incremental treadmill test and during recovery before and after 10-day altitude training at approximately 1828 meters. Eight varsity cross-country runners performed an incremental treadmill test (ITT), pre and post-altitude training. Resting and post-warm-up BL values were recorded. During ITT, heart rate (HR), oxygen saturation (SpO2), and time to exhaustion were monitored. BL was also measured post-ITT at 0, 2, 4, 6, and 8 minutes. The average of all BL values was higher following altitude intervention (8.8 ± 4.6 mmol/L) compared to pre-intervention (7.4 ± 3.3 mmol/L). These differences were statistically significant (t(6) = −2.40, p = .026). BL immediately (0 minutes) after the ITT was higher following the altitude intervention (13.6 ± 3.6 mmol/L) compared to pre-intervention (9.7 ± 3.8 mmol/L) and was statistically significant (t(7) = −3.30, p = .006). Average HR during the ITT was lower following the altitude intervention (176.9 ± 11.1 bpm) compared to pre (187 ± 9.5 bpm), these differences were statistically significant (t(28)= 18.07, p= <.001. Time to exhaustion was longer after the intervention, however was not statistically significant p = 0.13. These findings indicate that a 10 - day altitude intervention at 1828 meters may benefit varsity cross-country runners. The higher post-exercise BL may be attributed to more anaerobic contributions. Lower HR may suggest a larger stroke volume and/or more efficient O2 carrying capacity. PMID:28479950

Yogurt Is a Low-Glycemic Index Food.

PubMed

Wolever, Thomas Ms

2017-07-01

High yogurt intake is associated with a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes (T2DM). Although several mechanisms could explain this association, this paper addresses the glycemic and insulinemic impact of yogurt. There is evidence that low-glycemic index (GI) and low-glycemic load (GL) diets are associated with a reduced risk of T2DM. The 93 GI values for yogurt in the University of Sydney's GI database have a mean ± SD of 34 ± 13, and 92% of the yogurts are low-GI (≤55). The 43 plain yogurts in the database have a lower GI than the 50 sweetened yogurts, 27 ± 11 compared with 41 ± 11 ( P < 0.0001). This difference is not explained by sugar, per se, but rather by the higher protein-to-carbohydrate ratio in plain yogurt. Although yogurt has a low GI, its insulinemic index (II) is higher than its GI. High insulin responses may be deleterious because hyperinsulinemia is associated with an increased risk of T2DM. Nevertheless, this may not be a concern for yogurt because, although its II is higher than its GI, the II of yogurt is within the range of II values for nondairy low-GI foods. In addition, mixed meals containing dairy protein elicit insulin responses similar to those elicited by mixed meals of similar composition containing nondairy protein. Because the GI of yogurt is lower than that of most other carbohydrate foods, exchanging yogurt for other protein and carbohydrate sources can reduce the GI and GL of the diet, and is in line with recommended dietary patterns, which include whole grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts, legumes, fish, vegetable oils, and yogurt. © 2017 American Society for Nutrition.

Prognostic value of high-field proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy in patients presenting with clinically isolated syndromes suggestive of multiple sclerosis.

PubMed

Wattjes, Mike P; Harzheim, Michael; Lutterbey, Götz G; Bogdanow, Manuela; Schmidt, Stephan; Schild, Hans H; Träber, Frank

2008-02-01

The aim of this study was to determine the prognostic value of metabolic alterations in the normal-appearing white matter (NAWM) of patients presenting with clinically isolated syndromes (CIS) suggestive of multiple sclerosis (MS) with special regard to the prediction of conversion to definite MS. Using a 3T whole-body MR system, a multisequence conventional MRI protocol and single-voxel proton MR spectroscopy (PRESS, repetition time 2000 ms, echo times 38 ms and 140 ms) of the parietal NAWM were performed in 25 patients presenting with CIS at baseline and in 20 controls. Absolute concentrations of N-acetyl-aspartate (tNAA), myo-inositol (Ins), choline (Cho) and creatine (tCr) as well as metabolite ratios were determined. Follow-up including neurological assessment and conventional MRI was performed 3-4 and 6-7 months after the initial event. Nine patients converted to definite MS during the follow-up period. Compared to controls, those patients who converted to MS also showed significantly lower tNAA concentrations in the NAWM (-13.4%, P = 0.002) whereas nonconverters (-6.5%, P = 0.052) did not. The Ins concentration was 20.2% higher in the converter group and 1.9% higher in the nonconverter group, but these differences did not reach significance. No significant differences could be observed for tCr and Cho in either patient group. Axonal damage at baseline in patients presenting with CIS was more prominent in those who subsequently converted to definite MS in the short term follow-up, indicating that tNAA might be a sufficient prognostic marker for patients with a higher risk of conversion to early definite MS.

Self-Esteem Depends on the Beholder: Effects of a Subtle Social Value Cue

PubMed Central

Weisbuch, Max; Sinclair, Stacey A.; Skorinko, Jeanine L.; Eccleston, Collette P.

2009-01-01

The idea that self-esteem functions as a gauge or “sociometer” of social value (Leary & Baumeister, 2000) is supported by research on direct social feedback. To examine if the sociometer model is relevant to more subtle social value cues, the implicit self-esteem of women was assessed a week after an interaction with an experimenter. Consistent with the sociometer model, Week 2 self-esteem depended on a subtle social value cue encountered during Week 1. When the Week 1 experimenter wore a t-shirt celebrating larger bodies (i.e., “everyBODY is beautiful”), heavier women had higher self-esteem than lighter women in Week 2. As hypothesized, this effect was relationship-specific, occurring only when the same experimenter administered Week 1 and 2 sessions. PMID:20047001

[Minnesota multiphasic personality inventory of patients with allergic rhinitis].

PubMed

Xi, Lin; Zhang, Wei; Zhao, Yan; Zhang, Luo

2011-08-01

To explore the relationship between allergic rhinitis (AR) and personality traits in nonpsychiatric population of allergic status. Subjects were assigned to the allergic (84 cases) or nonallergic health group (37 cases) on the basis of skin prick test (SPT) and allergic symptoms. The psychological aspects of subjects were assessed by using the minnesota multiphasic personality inventory (MMPI). The allergic group scored higher than the nonallergic group on five clinical scales, hypochondriasis (Hs), depression (D), hysteria (Hy), hypomania (Ma), social introversion (Si), and one research scale manifest anxiety scale (Mas). The differences were significant (t value was respectively 2.169, 2.711, 2.010, 2.577, 2.390 and 2.196, all P < 0.05). In addition, the grade of resultant skin wheal was positively correlated with T scores on the Hs, Hy, psychopathic deviance (Pd) and psychasthenia (Pt). The r value was 0.366, 0.449, 0.345 and 0.355 respectively (all P < 0.05). Subjects with AR show poorer psychological functioning, indicating the close relationship between AR and psychological status.

Impaction of permanent mandibular second molar: A retrospective study

PubMed Central

Altieri, Federica; Di Mambro, Alfonso; Galluccio, Gabriella; Barbato, Ersilia

2013-01-01

Objective: To determine the prevalence of impacted mandibular second molar (MM2) and the association between MM2 impaction and crowding. The clinical significance of the angle between first and second mandibular molar and of the space between the first mandibular molar (MM1) and the anterior margin of mandibular ramus in MM2 impaction were also evaluated. Material and Methods: In this retrospective study , from the dental records of 2,945 caucasian young orthodontics patients, 40 subjects with MM2 impaction were included in a study group (SG) and compared with a control group (CG) of 200 subjects without MM2 impactions. The crowding, the angle of inclination of MM2, the distance between MM1 and mandibular ramus, the canine and molar relationships, and the lower centre line discrepancy were measured. For the statistical analysis , descriptive statistics and t-Student for independent sample groups were used. Results: The prevalence of impacted MM2 was 1.36%. The independent-Samples t-Test between SG and CG showed: the presence of crowding (P≤0.001), an higher angle values of MM2 inclination (P≤0.001) and a smaller distance between MM1 and the anterior margin of mandibular ramus (P≤0.001) in the SG. Conclusion: The impaction of MM2 is a relatively rare occurrence in orthodontic caucasian populations. The crowding, a higher angle values of MM2 inclination and a reduced distance between MM1 and the anterior margin of mandibular ramus, at the time of one third of MM2 root formation (T1), characterize MM2 impaction. Key words:Impacted mandibular second molar, impaction, orthodontics. PMID:23524438

The effect of tolvaptan on renal excretion of electrolytes and urea nitrogen in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass surgery.

PubMed

Kato, Tomoko S; Nakamura, Hiroshi; Murata, Mai; Kuroda, Kishio; Suzuki, Hitoshi; Yokoyama, Yasutaka; Shimada, Akie; Matsushita, Satoshi; Yamamoto, Taira; Amano, Atsushi

2016-09-13

Adequate fluid management is an important component of patient care following cardiac surgery. Our aim in this study was to determine the benefits of tolvaptan, an oral selective vasopressin-2 receptor antagonist that causes electrolyte-free water diuresis, in postoperative fluid management. We prospectively examined the effect of tolvaptan on renal excretion of electrolytes and urea nitrogen in cardiac surgery patients. Patients undergoing coronary artery bypass surgery were randomized to receive conventional loop diuretics (Group C, n = 30) or conventional loop diuretic therapy plus tolvaptan (Group T, n = 27). Fractional excretions of sodium (FENA), potassium (FEK) and urea nitrogen (FEUN) were measured in both groups during post-surgical hospitalization. Urine output was greater with tolvaptan (Group T) than without it (Group C), and some patients in Group C required intravenous as well as oral loop diuretics. Serum sodium concentrations decreased after surgery in Group C, but were unchanged in Group T (postoperative day [POD] 3, 139.8 ± 3.5 vs. 142.3 ± 2.6 mEq/L, p = 0.006). However, postoperative FENA values in Group C did not decrease, and the values were similar in both groups. Serum potassium levels remained lower and FEK values remained higher than the preoperative values, but only in Group C (all p < 0.05). BUN increased postoperatively in both groups, but it remained higher than its preoperative value only in Group C (all p < 0.01). Group T showed an initial increase in BUN, which peaked and then returned to its preoperative value within a week. The FEUN increased postoperatively in both groups, but the change was more pronounced in Group T (POD7, 52.7 ± 9.3 vs. 58.2 ± 6.5 %, p = 0.025). Renal excretion of sodium and potassium reflects the changes in serum concentration in patients treated with tolvaptan. Patients treated only with loop diuretics showed a continuous excretion of sodium and potassium that led to electrolyte imbalance, whereas the combination of loop diuretics and tolvaptan increased renal urea nitrogen elimination. Tolvaptan therefore appears to be an effective diuretic that minimally affects serum electrolytes while adequately promoting the elimination of urea nitrogen from the kidneys in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass surgery. The present study is registered with the UMIN Clinical Trials Registry (ID: UMIN000011039 ).

Dietary effects of Azolla pinnata combined with exogenous digestive enzyme (Digestin™) on growth and nutrients utilization of freshwater prawn, Macrobrachium rosenbergii (de Man 1879)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Goda, Ashraf; Saad, Amal; Hanafy, Mohamed; Sharawy, Zaki; El-Haroun, Ehab

2017-07-01

The present study was conducted to evaluate the effect of either individual or combined wheat bran (WB) replacement with Azolla pinnata supplemented with Digestin™ in the diet of freshwater prawn,Macrobrachium rosenbergii Postlarvae (PL) on growth performance, nutrient utilization, chemical body composition and survival (%). Experimental diets were a wheat bran-soybean based diet with no Azolla and Digestin TM (control, T1), and diets containing 17% Azolla supplemented with Digestin TM 0% (T2), 1% (T3), 2% (T4) and 3% (T5). Each experimental diet was allocated into three tanks (6m3/tank) fed for 12 wks. Each tank was subdivided into three equal pens by nets (2m3) and stoked with 84 PL/m2. The experimental diets were readily consumed by prawns PLs where both high growth and good feed efficiency were achieved for all diets. The results showed that the diets containing A. pinnata supplemented with Digestin™ at the level up to 3% have the higher growth and better nutrient utilization than the control diet. No differences were observed for moisture and protein content among the experimental diets. However, the highest protein content was observed on prawns fed on diets T1 and T5 respectively, while the lowest value was recorded for T 4 diet. The results also show that prawn PLs fed the diets contain A. pinnata and supplemented with Digestin TM recorded the highest values of body lipid content compared to the control diet. Feed efficiency and economic conversion rate (ECR) values show that economic performance and the cost-effectiveness of the A. pinnata supplemented with up to 3% Digestin TM recorded the highest net return, and therefore it is recommended for prawn, M. rosenbergii PL's. These results are clearly indicating that A. pinnata have a good potential for use in prawn diets at reasonable levels than other conventional diets.

UTE bi-component analysis of T2* relaxation in articular cartilage

PubMed Central

Shao, H.; Chang, E.Y.; Pauli, C.; Zanganeh, S.; Bae, W.; Chung, C.B.; Tang, G.; Du, J.

2015-01-01

SUMMARY Objectives To determine T2* relaxation in articular cartilage using ultrashort echo time (UTE) imaging and bi-component analysis, with an emphasis on the deep radial and calcified cartilage. Methods Ten patellar samples were imaged using two-dimensional (2D) UTE and Car-Purcell-Meiboom-Gill (CPMG) sequences. UTE images were fitted with a bi-component model to calculate T2* and relative fractions. CPMG images were fitted with a single-component model to calculate T2. The high signal line above the subchondral bone was regarded as the deep radial and calcified cartilage. Depth and orientation dependence of T2*, fraction and T2 were analyzed with histopathology and polarized light microscopy (PLM), confirming normal regions of articular cartilage. An interleaved multi-echo UTE acquisition scheme was proposed for in vivo applications (n = 5). Results The short T2* values remained relatively constant across the cartilage depth while the long T2* values and long T2* fractions tended to increase from subchondral bone to the superficial cartilage. Long T2*s and T2s showed significant magic angle effect for all layers of cartilage from the medial to lateral facets, while the short T2* values and T2* fractions are insensitive to the magic angle effect. The deep radial and calcified cartilage showed a mean short T2* of 0.80 ± 0.05 ms and short T2* fraction of 39.93 ± 3.05% in vitro, and a mean short T2* of 0.93 ± 0.58 ms and short T2* fraction of 35.03 ± 4.09% in vivo. Conclusion UTE bi-component analysis can characterize the short and long T2* values and fractions across the cartilage depth, including the deep radial and calcified cartilage. The short T2* values and T2* fractions are magic angle insensitive. PMID:26382110

Structure, vibrational spectrum, and ring puckering barrier of cyclobutane.

PubMed

Blake, Thomas A; Xantheas, Sotiris S

2006-09-07

We present the results of high level ab initio calculations for the structure, harmonic and anharmonic spectroscopic constants, and ring puckering barrier of cyclobutane (C4H8) in an effort to establish the minimum theoretical requirements needed for their accurate description. We have found that accurate estimates for the barrier between the minimum (D(2d)) and transition state (D(4h)) configurations require both higher levels of electron correlation [MP4, CCSD(T)] and orbital basis sets of quadruple-zeta quality or larger. By performing CCSD(T) calculations with basis sets as large as cc-pV5Z, we were able to obtain, for the first time, a value for the puckering barrier that lies within 10 cm(-1) (or 2%) from experiment, whereas the best previously calculated values were in errors exceeding 40% of experiment. Our best estimate of 498 cm(-1) for the puckering barrier is within 10 cm(-1) of the experimental value proposed originally, but it lies approximately 50 cm(-1) higher than the revisited value, which was obtained more recently using different assumptions regarding the coupling between the various modes. It is therefore suggested that revisiting the analysis of the experimental data might be warranted. Our best computed values (at the CCSD(T)/aug-cc-pVTZ level of theory) for the equilibrium structural parameters of C4H8 are r(C-C) = 1.554 A, r(C-H(alpha)) = 1.093 A, r(C-H(beta)) = 1.091 A, phi(C-C-C) = 88.1 degrees , alpha(H(alpha)-C-H(beta)) = 109.15 degrees , and theta = 29.68 degrees for the puckering angle. We have found that the puckering angle theta is more sensitive to the level of electron correlation than to the size of the basis set for a given method. We furthermore present anharmonic calculations that are based on a second-order perturbative evaluation of rovibrational parameters and their effects on the vibrational spectra and average structure. We have found that the anharmonic calculations predict the experimentally measured fundamental band origins within 1% (< or =30 cm(-1)) for most vibrations. The results of the current study can serve as a guide for future calculations on the substituted four-member ring hydrocarbon compounds. To this end we present a method for estimating the puckering barrier height at higher levels of electron correlation [MP4, CCSD(T)] from the MP2 results that can be used in chemically similar compounds.

Irreversibility Line Measurement and Vortex Dynamics in High Magnetic Fields in Ni- and Co-Doped Iron Pnictide Bulk Superconductors

DOE PAGES

Nikolo, Martin; Singleton, John; Zapf, Vivien S.; ...

2016-07-20

The de-pinning or irreversibility lines were determined by ac susceptibility, magnetization, radio-frequency proximity detector oscillator (PDO), and resistivity methods in Ba(Fe 0.92Co 0.08) 2As 2 ( T c = 23.2 K), Ba(Fe 0.95Ni 0.05) 2As 2 ( T c = 20.4 K), and Ba(Fe 0.94Ni 0.06) 2As 2 ( T c = 18.5 K) bulk superconductors in ac, dc, and pulsed magnetic fields up to 65 T. A new method of extracting the irreversibility fields from the radio-frequency proximity detector oscillator induction technique is described. Wide temperature broadening of the irreversibility lines, for any given combination of ac and dcmore » fields, is dependent on the time frame of measurement. Increasing the magnetic field sweep rate (dH/dt) shifts the irreversibility lines to higher temperatures up to about dH/d t = 40,000 Oe/s; for higher dH/dt, there is little impact on the irreversibility line. There is an excellent data match between the irreversibility fields obtained from magnetization hysteresis loops, PDO, and ac susceptibility measurements, but not from resistivity measurements in these materials. Lower critical field vs. temperature phase diagrams are measured. Their very low values near 0 T indicate that these materials are in mixed state in nonzero magnetic fields, and yet the strength of the vortex pinning enables very high irreversibility fields, as high as 51 T at 1.5 K for the Ba(Fe 0.92Co 0.08) 2As 2 polycrystalline sample, showing a promise for liquid helium temperature applications.« less

Determination of Hydrogen Diffusion Coefficients in Fused Silica From 23 to 250°C Using Raman Spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shang, L.; Chou, I.; Lu, W.; Burruss, R. C.

2008-12-01

The oxygen buffer technique is routinely used in experimental studies of redox sensitive geochemical reactions at elevated pressures (P) and temperatures (T). However, this technique is limited to T above about 400°C due to the low permeability of sample containers (Pt or Ag-Pd alloys) to hydrogen at lower T. Preliminary results of Chou et al. (Geochim. Cosmochim. Acta, 2008, doi:10.1016/j.gca.2008.07.030) indicate that the use of fused silica capillary (FSC) container may extend this technique to lower T. In this study, hydrogen diffusion coefficients (D) in FSC were determined from 23 to 250°C by measuring the loss of hydrogen from the FSC containers (0.3 mm OD, 0.1 mm ID, and ~10 mm long) with Raman spectroscopy using CO2 as an internal standard. First, CO2 was loaded cryogenically in a FSC capsule (Chou et al., ibid.). The capsule was then inserted in a protective ceramic tube, sealed in a gold capsule containing Fe powder and water, and heated at 300°C under 100 MPa of Ar external P in a cold-seal pressure vessel for several days allowing H2 to diffuse into the capsule. After quench, the Raman spectra were collected and the initial relative concentration of hydrogen in the silica capsule was derived from the peak height ratios between H2 (near 587 cm-1) and CO2 (near 1387 cm- 1). The sample capsule was then heated at a fixed T at one atmosphere to let H2 diffuse out of the capsule, and the changes of hydrogen concentration were monitored by Raman spectroscopy after quench. This process was repeated with different heating durations at 23 (room T), 50, 102, 157, 200, and 250°C. The values of D (in cm2s-1) in FSC were obtained by fitting the observed changes of hydrogen concentration to an equation based on Fick's second law. Our results can be represented by: Ln D (±0.14) = (-39810/RT) - 9.5491 (r2 = 0.9985) where R is the gas constant, and T in Kelvin. The slope corresponds to an activation energy of 39.81 kJ/mol. Our D values are about a half order of magnitude lower than those extrapolated from the values of Lee et al. (1962, J. Chem. Phys., 36, 1062) measured between 300 and 500°C, and about a half order of magnitude higher than those reported by Berrer (1941, Diffusion in and through solids, Cambridge Univ. Press, 141). The D in FSC determined at 23°C is about three times higher than that of Pt at 500°C, indicating that FSC is a suitable membrane for hydrogen at T below 400°C, even at room T, and has a great potential for studying redox reactions at these T, especially for the systems containing organic material.

Diffuse Carbon Dioxide (CO2) degassing from the summit crater of Pico do Fogo during the 2014-15 eruption, Cape Verde

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rodríguez, Fatima; Dionis, Samara; Padrón, Eleazar; Fernandes, Paulo; Melián, Gladys V.; Pérez, Nemesio M.; Hernández, Pedro A.; Silva, Sónia; Pereira, José Manuel; Cardoso, Nadir; Asensio-Ramos, María; Barrancos, José; Padilla, Germán; Calvo, David; Semedo, Helio

2015-04-01

On January 3, 2015, a new diffuse CO2 degassing survey at the summit crater of Pico do Fogo volcano (2,829 m above sea level) was carried out by ITER/INVOLCAN/UNICV/OVCV research team to investigate the effect of the 2014-15 Fogo eruption on the diffuse degassing through the summit crater. Before the eruption onset on November 23, 2014, these type of surveys were periodically performed by ITER/INVOLCAN/UNICV/OVCV research team since May 2007. The first published data on diffuse CO2 degassing rate from the summit crater of Pico do Fogo volcano (219 ± 36 t d-1) is related to a survey performed on February 2010 (Dionis et al., 2015). Each survey implies about 65 CO2 efflux measurements to obtain a good spatial distribution and cover homogeneously the summit crater area (0.14 km2). Because of the sudden falls of rocks of different sizes inside the summit crater during the January 3 survey, the research team aborted continues working in the summit crater without completing the survey only 32 of the 65 CO2 efflux measurements were performed covering a smaller area (0.065 km2). Observed CO2 efflux values ranged from non detectable (< 1.5 g m-2 d-1) up to 12188 g m-2 d-1 and showed a mean value of 1090.2 g m-2 d-1. The observed CO2 efflux median values from the same sampling sites in previous surveys (83.1 g m-2 d-1 for March 2014; 15.5 g m-2 d-1 for October 2013; 2.3 g m-2 d-1 for April 2013; 14.6 g m-2 d-1 for February 2012; 64.7 g m-2 d-1 for March 2011; 64.5 for Febraury 2010 ) were lower than the median of the January 2015 survey (249.4 g m-2 d-1) suggesting a higher degassing rate for this new survey. The diffuse CO2 emission from the study area of 0.065 km2, within the summit crater, was 74 t d-1 on January 3, 2015, which is a similar degassing rate to those estimated for the same study area on the July 2014 (90 t d-1) and August 2014 (66 t d-1) surveys, and relatively higher than the estimated for October 2012 survey (27 t d-1). Since the diffuse CO2 emission rate on July and August 2014 were 323 and 337 t d-1, respectively, it can be expected a relatively high diffuse CO2 degassing rate from the summit crater of Pico do Fogo for the January 3, 2015 survey (> 300 t d-1). This most recent survey did not cover the hydrothermal alteration zone within the crater, where the highest CO2 efflux measurements are usually recorded. Dionis et al. (2015), Bull. Volcanol., in press;

Intrapulpal Temperature Increases Caused by 445-nm Diode Laser-Assisted Debonding of Self-Ligating Ceramic Brackets During Simulated Pulpal Fluid Circulation.

PubMed

Stein, Steffen; Wenzler, Johannes; Hellak, Andreas; Schauseil, Michael; Korbmacher-Steiner, Heike; Braun, Andreas

2018-04-01

This study investigated temperature increases in dental pulp resulting from laser-assisted debonding of ceramic brackets using a 445-nm diode laser. Eighteen ceramic brackets were bonded in standardized manner to 18 caries-free human third molars. Pulpal fluid circulation was simulated by pumping distilled water at 37°C through the pulp chamber. The brackets were irradiated with a 445-nm diode laser. Temperatures were measured using a thermal camera at points P1 (center of the pulp) and P2 (in the hard dental tissue) at the baseline (T0), at the start and end of laser application (T1 and T2), and the maximum during the sequence (T max ). Significant differences in the temperatures measured at P1 and P2 were observed among T0, T1, T2, and T max . Significant increases in temperature were noted at points P1 and P2, between T1 and T2, T1 and T max , and T2 and T max . The maximum P2 values were significantly higher than at P1. The maximum temperature increase measured in the pulp was 2.23°C, lower than the critical threshold of 5.5°C. On the basis of the laser settings used, there is no risk to the vitality of dental pulp during laser-assisted debonding of ceramic brackets with a 445-nm diode laser.

Elevated serum fetuin-A levels are associated with grades of retinopathy in type 2 diabetic patients.

PubMed

Yilmaz, Ahu; Yilmaz, Tolga; Gunay, Murat

2017-10-25

Fetuin-A is a physiological inhibitor of insulin receptor tyrosine kinase and thus associated with insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome, and an increased risk for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). This study aims to investigate the possible relation between the serum fetuin-A levels and the stages of diabetic retinopathy (DR) in patients with T2DM. This prospective study included 82 patients with T2DM and 19 age- and gender-matched healthy controls (HCs) (group 1). Diabetic patients were subclassified into three groups according to ocular findings: without DR (group 2; n = 26); non-proliferative DR (group 3; n = 29), and proliferative DR (group 4; n = 27). Serum fetuin-A levels were determined by a spectrophotometric technique using an immulite chemiluminescent immunometric assay. The data were analyzed using a Mann-Whitney U test, and the results were expressed as mean ± standard deviation. Mean fetuin-A values were 256.4 ± 21.3 μg/ml in group 1, 263.5 ± 24.2 μg/ml in group 2, 282.2 ± 31.1 μg/ml in group 3, and 296.3 ± 26.2 μg/ml in group 4. Group 2 had higher mean fetuin-A level compared with group 1, but the difference was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Serum fetuin-A levels were significantly higher in groups 3 and 4 compared with HCs (both p < 0.05). Compared with group 2, both DR groups had higher fetuin-A levels with a significant difference (both p < 0.05); and patients with proliferative DR had significantly higher serum fetuin-A levels compared with non-proliferative DR (p < 0.05). The mean serum fetuin-A levels increased with the stage of DR, and the highest levels were found in patients with proliferative DR. Our findings suggest an association between fetuin-A levels and DR stage. In diabetic patients, the risk of retinopathy development increases with higher fetuin-A values. Fetuin-A may play an important role in the pathophysiology and progression of DR.

Modified look-locker inversion recovery T1 mapping indices: assessment of accuracy and reproducibility between magnetic resonance scanners

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background Cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) T1 mapping indices, such as T1 time and partition coefficient (λ), have shown potential to assess diffuse myocardial fibrosis. The purpose of this study was to investigate how scanner and field strength variation affect the accuracy and precision/reproducibility of T1 mapping indices. Methods CMR studies were performed on two 1.5T and three 3T scanners. Eight phantoms were made to mimic the T1/T2 of pre- and post-contrast myocardium and blood at 1.5T and 3T. T1 mapping using MOLLI was performed with simulated heart rate of 40-100 bpm. Inversion recovery spin echo (IR-SE) was the reference standard for T1 determination. Accuracy was defined as the percent error between MOLLI and IR-SE, and scan/re-scan reproducibility was defined as the relative percent mean difference between repeat MOLLI scans. Partition coefficient was estimated by ΔR1myocardium phantom/ΔR1blood phantom. Generalized linear mixed model was used to compare the accuracy and precision/reproducibility of T1 and λ across field strength, scanners, and protocols. Results Field strength significantly affected MOLLI T1 accuracy (6.3% error for 1.5T vs. 10.8% error for 3T, p<0.001) but not λ accuracy (8.8% error for 1.5T vs. 8.0% error for 3T, p=0.11). Partition coefficients of MOLLI were not different between two 1.5T scanners (47.2% vs. 47.9%, p=0.13), and showed only slight variation across three 3T scanners (49.2% vs. 49.8% vs. 49.9%, p=0.016). Partition coefficient also had significantly lower percent error for precision (better scan/re-scan reproducibility) than measurement of individual T1 values (3.6% for λ vs. 4.3%-4.8% for T1 values, approximately, for pre/post blood and myocardium values). Conclusion Based on phantom studies, T1 errors using MOLLI ranged from 6-14% across various MR scanners while errors for partition coefficient were less (6-10%). Compared with absolute T1 times, partition coefficient showed less variability across platforms and field strengths as well as higher precision. PMID:23890156

Metal/Silicate Partitioning of W, Ge, Ga and Ni: Dependence on Silicate Melt Composition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Singletary, S.; Drake, M. J.

2004-12-01

Metal/silicate partition coefficients (Dm/s) for siderophile elements are essential to investigations of core formation when used in conjunction with the pattern of elemental abundances in the Earth's mantle (Drake and Righter, 2002; Jones and Drake, 1986; Righter et al. 1997). The partitioning of siderophile elements is controlled by temperature, pressure, oxygen fugacity, and by the compositions of the metal and silicate phases. In this work, we investigate the role of silicate melt composition on the partitioning of the siderophile elements W, Ge, Ga and Ni between metallic and silicate liquid. Experiments were performed in the Experimental Geochemistry Laboratory at the University of Arizona utilizing a non-end loaded piston cylinder apparatus with a barium carbonate pressure medium. Starting materials were created by combining the mafic and silicic compositions of Jaeger and Drake (2000) with Fe powder (~25 wt% of the total mixture) to achieve metal saturation. Small amounts of W, Ge, Ga2O3 and NiO powder (less than 2 wt% each) were also added to the starting compositions. The experiments were contained in a graphite capsule and performed with temperature and pressure fixed at 1400ºC and 1.5 GPa. Experimental run products were analyzed with the University of Arizona Cameca SX50 electron microprobe with four wavelength dispersive spectrometers and a PAP ZAF correction program. All experiments in our set are saturated with metal and silicate liquid, indicating that oxygen fugacity is below IW. Several of the runs also contain a gallium-rich spinel as an additional saturating phase. Quench phases are also present in the silicate liquid in all runs. The experimentally produced liquids have nbo/t values (calculated using the method of Mills, 1993) that range from 1.10 to 2.97. These values are higher than those calculated for the liquids in the Jaeger and Drake (2000) study. The higher nbo/t values are due to uptake of Fe by the melt. The initial silicate composition contained no FeO, however the experimentally produced silicate liquids contained from 15 to 26 wt % FeO. We find that W is incompatible over the range of compositions used in this study. However, W compatibility increases as melts become more silicic, with D(W) = 0.0005 at nbo/t = 2.97 and D(W) = 0.09 at nbo/t = 1.1. The slope of the best fit line for the W data when plotted in nbo/t vs Log D space is -1.22 and close to the value of -1.34 found by Jaeger and Drake (2000). Ge is compatible at all compositions and follows a similar pattern to that of W becoming more compatible with decreasing nbo/t (D(Ge)= 14 at nbo/t = 2.97 and D(Ge) = 100 at nbo/t = 1.1). Ni and Ga display essentially flat slopes within the error of our analysis, with D(Ni) = 395 at nbo/t = 2.97 and D(Ni) = 870 at nbo/t 1.10 and D(Ga) = 0.08 at nbo/t = 2.97 and D(Ga) = 0.02 at nbo/t = 1.1. A second series of experiments is in progress to verify these data and extend the study to lower values of nbo/t. References: Drake, M.J. and Righter, K. (2002) Nature, v. 416, 39-44; Jones, J.H. and Drake, M.J. (1986) Nature, v. 323, 470-471; Righter, K., et al. (1997) Physics Earth and Planet. Int., v. 100, 115-134; Jaeger, W.L. and Drake, M.J. (2000) Geo. Cosmo. Acta, v. 64, 3887-3895; Mills, K.C. (1993) ISIJ International, v. 33, 148-155.

Altered Semmes-Weinstein monofilament test results are associated with oxidative stress markers in type 2 diabetic subjects.

PubMed

Martinez-Hervás, Sergio; Mendez, Mercedes Molina; Folgado, José; Tormos, Carmen; Ascaso, Pilar; Peiró, Marta; Real, Jose T; Ascaso, Juan F

2017-09-06

Different lines of evidence suggest that oxidative stress (OS) is implicated in the pathogenesis of diabetic neuropathy. The Semmes-Weinstein monofilament (SWM) test is an efficient tool for evaluating diabetic polyneuropathy and diabetic foot. In this study, we analyzed the association between OS markers and altered SWM test results in type 2 diabetes (T2DM) patients. Seventy T2DM patients were studied and 34 showed altered SWM results. The clinical and biochemical parameters were determined using standardized methods. Levels of oxidized glutathione (GSSG) and malondialdehyde (MDA) were measured in circulating mononuclear cells using high-performance liquid chromatography. We found that T2DM patients with altered SWM test results had significantly higher GSSG (3.53 ± 0.31 vs. 3.31 ± 0.35 mmol/ml, p < 0.05) and MDA (1.88 ± 0.16 vs. 1.75 ± 0.19 nmol/ml, p < 0.01) values compared to diabetic patients with normal SWM test outcomes. Moreover, altered SWM test results were independently related to age, glycosylated hemoglobin, and GSSG levels, but there was no association between OS markers and altered neuropathy sensitivity score (NSS) values. Alteration of the glutathione system and MDA values in T2DM patients are associated with loss of proprioceptive (pressure) sensitivity, but not with symptomatic polyneuropathy (as evaluated by NSS). This finding may be important for understanding how OS affects distal symmetric polyneuropathy in diabetic patients.

Diagnostic value of T1 and T2 * relaxation times and off-resonance saturation effects in the evaluation of Achilles tendinopathy by MRI at 3T.

PubMed

Grosse, Ulrich; Syha, Roland; Hein, Tobias; Gatidis, Sergios; Grözinger, Gerd; Schabel, Christoph; Martirosian, Petros; Schick, Fritz; Springer, Fabian

2015-04-01

To evaluate and compare the diagnostic value of T1 , T2 * relaxation times and off-resonance saturation ratios (OSR) in healthy controls and patients with different clinical and morphological stages of Achilles tendinopathy. Forty-two healthy Achilles tendons and 34 tendons of 17 patients with symptomatic and asymptomatic tendinopathy were investigated clinically with conventional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) sequences on a 3T whole-body MR scanner and a dynamic ultrasound examination. In addition, T1 and T2 * relaxation times were assessed using an ultrashort echo time (UTE) imaging sequence with flip angle and echo time variation. For the calculation of OSR values a Gaussian off-resonance saturation pulse (frequency offset: 750-5000 Hz) was used. The diagnostic value of the derived MR values was assessed and compared using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. ROC curves demonstrate the highest overall test performance for OSR values at 2000 Hz off-resonance in differentiating slightly (OSR-2000 [AUC: 0.930] > T2 * [AUC: 0.884] > T1 [AUC: 0.737]) and more severe pathologically altered tendon areas (OSR-2000 [AUC: 0.964] > T2 * [AUC: 0.917] > T1 [AUC: 0.819]) from healthy ones. OSR values at a frequency offset of 2000 Hz demonstrated a better sensitivity and specificity for detecting mild and severe stages of tendinopathy compared to T2 * and particularly when compared to T1 relaxation times. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Changes in the T2 value of cartilage after meniscus transplantation over 1 year.

PubMed

Park, Sun-Young; Lee, Sang Hoon; Lee, Min Hee; Chung, Hye Won; Shin, Myung Jin

2017-04-01

To evaluate the changes in the mean T2 values of articular cartilage on serial follow-up images up to 1 year in patients who underwent lateral meniscus allograft transplantation (MAT). Fifty-two patients who underwent lateral MAT surgery at our hospital were evaluated preoperatively and at 2 days, 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year after MAT using 3.0-T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) that included T2 mapping. T2 value changes according to the arthroscopic grading of chondromalacia were evaluated in the lateral and medial compartment. Lysholm scores were obtained pre- and postoperatively. The T2 values of cartilage were significantly increased 2 days after operation, and then gradually reduced to the baseline level after 1 year in both compartments. In morphologic assessment performed after 1 year, most areas (92.9 %) showed no interval change of chondromalacia grade. Lyshom knee scores increased significantly from the mean preoperative value of 62.5 (range, 23-95) to 89.7 (range, 64-100) at 1 year (p < 0.001). Mean T2 values of cartilage following MAT exhibited a return to baseline level after 1 year. T2 measurement can be a useful tool for quantitative evaluation of postoperative cartilage changes compared to conventional MRI. • T2 mapping provides objective data for longitudinal monitoring following surgery. • Increased cartilage T2 values post-MAT returned to baseline in one year. • Further studies are required to predict the chondroprotective effect of MAT.

SUPRATHERMAL ELECTRONS IN TITAN’S SUNLIT IONOSPHERE: MODEL–OBSERVATION COMPARISONS

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

Vigren, E.; Edberg, N. J. T.; Wahlund, J.-E.

2016-08-01

The dayside ionosphere of the Saturnian satellite Titan is generated mainly from photoionization of N{sub 2} and CH{sub 4}. We compare model-derived suprathermal electron intensities with spectra measured by the Cassini Plasma Spectrometer/Electron Spectrometer (CAPS/ELS) in Titan's sunlit ionosphere (altitudes of 970–1250 km) focusing on the T40, T41, T42, and T48 Titan flybys by the Cassini spacecraft. The model accounts only for photoelectrons and associated secondary electrons, with a main input being the impinging solar EUV spectra as measured by the Thermosphere Ionosphere Mesosphere Energy and Dynamics/Solar EUV Experiment and extrapolated to Saturn. Associated electron-impact electron production rates have beenmore » derived from ambient number densities of N{sub 2} and CH{sub 4} (measured by the Ion Neutral Mass Spectrometer/Closed Source Neutral mode) and related energy-dependent electron-impact ionization cross sections. When integrating up to electron energies of 60 eV, covering the bulk of the photoelectrons, the model-based values exceed the observationally based values typically by factors of ∼3 ± 1. This finding is possibly related to current difficulties in accurately reproducing the observed electron number densities in Titan's dayside ionosphere. We compare the utilized dayside CAPS/ELS spectra with ones measured in Titan's nightside ionosphere during the T55–T59 flybys. The investigated nightside locations were associated with higher fluxes of high-energy (>100 eV) electrons than the dayside locations. As expected, for similar neutral number densities, electrons with energies <60 eV give a higher relative contribution to the total electron-impact ionization rates on the dayside (due to the contribution from photoelectrons) than on the nightside.« less

Enhancement of the critical current density and flux pinning of MgB2 superconductor by nanoparticle SiC doping

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dou, S. X.; Soltanian, S.; Horvat, J.; Wang, X. L.; Zhou, S. H.; Ionescu, M.; Liu, H. K.; Munroe, P.; Tomsic, M.

2002-10-01

Doping of MgB2 by nano-SiC and its potential for the improvement of flux pinning were studied for MgB2-x)(SiCx/2 with x=0, 0.2, and 0.3 and for 10 wt % nano-SiC-doped MgB2 samples. Cosubstitution of B by Si and C counterbalanced the effects of single-element doping, decreasing Tc by only 1.5 K, introducing intragrain pinning centers effective at high fields and temperatures, and significantly enhancing Jc and Hirr. Compared to the undoped sample, Jc for the 10 wt % doped sample increased by a factor of 32 at 5 K and 8 T, 42 at 20 K and 5 T, and 14 at 30 K and 2 T. At 20 K and 2 T, the Jc for the doped sample was 2.4 x105 A/cm2, which is comparable to Jc values for the best Ag/Bi-2223 tapes. At 20 K and 4 T, Jc was twice as high as for the best MgB2 thin films and an order of magnitude higher than for the best Fe/MgB2 tapes. The magnetic Jc is consistent with the transport Jc which remains at 20 000 A/cm2 even at 10 T and 5 K for the doped sample, an order of magnitude higher than the undoped one. Because of such high performance, it is anticipated that the future MgB2 conductors will be made using a formula of MgBxSiyCz instead of pure MgB2.

Higher harmonic flow coefficients of identified hadrons in Pb-Pb collisions at √{s_{NN}}=2.76 TeV

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Adam, J.; Adamová, D.; Aggarwal, M. M.; Aglieri Rinella, G.; Agnello, M.; Agrawal, N.; Ahammed, Z.; Ahmad, S.; Ahn, S. U.; Aiola, S.; Akindinov, A.; Alam, S. N.; Albuquerque, D. S. D.; Aleksandrov, D.; Alessandro, B.; Alexandre, D.; Alfaro Molina, R.; Alici, A.; Alkin, A.; Alme, J.; Alt, T.; Altinpinar, S.; Altsybeev, I.; Alves Garcia Prado, C.; An, M.; Andrei, C.; Andrews, H. A.; Andronic, A.; Anguelov, V.; Antičić, T.; Antinori, F.; Antonioli, P.; Aphecetche, L.; Appelshäuser, H.; Arcelli, S.; Arnaldi, R.; Arnold, O. W.; Arsene, I. C.; Arslandok, M.; Audurier, B.; Augustinus, A.; Averbeck, R.; Azmi, M. D.; Badalà, A.; Baek, Y. W.; Bagnasco, S.; Bailhache, R.; Bala, R.; Balasubramanian, S.; Baldisseri, A.; Baral, R. C.; Barbano, A. M.; Barbera, R.; Barile, F.; Barnaföldi, G. G.; Barnby, L. S.; Barret, V.; Bartalini, P.; Barth, K.; Bartke, J.; Bartsch, E.; Basile, M.; Bastid, N.; Basu, S.; Bathen, B.; Batigne, G.; Batista Camejo, A.; Batyunya, B.; Batzing, P. C.; Bearden, I. G.; Beck, H.; Bedda, C.; Behera, N. K.; Belikov, I.; Bellini, F.; Bello Martinez, H.; Bellwied, R.; Belmont, R.; Belmont-Moreno, E.; Beltran, L. G. E.; Belyaev, V.; Bencedi, G.; Beole, S.; Berceanu, I.; Bercuci, A.; Berdnikov, Y.; Berenyi, D.; Bertens, R. A.; Berzano, D.; Betev, L.; Bhasin, A.; Bhat, I. R.; Bhati, A. K.; Bhattacharjee, B.; Bhom, J.; Bianchi, L.; Bianchi, N.; Bianchin, C.; Bielčík, J.; Bielčíková, J.; Bilandzic, A.; Biro, G.; Biswas, R.; Biswas, S.; Bjelogrlic, S.; Blair, J. T.; Blau, D.; Blume, C.; Bock, F.; Bogdanov, A.; Bøggild, H.; Boldizsár, L.; Bombara, M.; Bonora, M.; Book, J.; Borel, H.; Borissov, A.; Borri, M.; Bossú, F.; Botta, E.; Bourjau, C.; Braun-Munzinger, P.; Bregant, M.; Breitner, T.; Broker, T. A.; Browning, T. A.; Broz, M.; Brucken, E. J.; Bruna, E.; Bruno, G. E.; Budnikov, D.; Buesching, H.; Bufalino, S.; Buncic, P.; Busch, O.; Buthelezi, Z.; Butt, J. B.; Buxton, J. T.; Cabala, J.; Caffarri, D.; Cai, X.; Caines, H.; Calero Diaz, L.; Caliva, A.; Calvo Villar, E.; Camerini, P.; Carena, F.; Carena, W.; Carnesecchi, F.; Castillo Castellanos, J.; Castro, A. J.; Casula, E. A. R.; Ceballos Sanchez, C.; Cepila, J.; Cerello, P.; Cerkala, J.; Chang, B.; Chapeland, S.; Chartier, M.; Charvet, J. L.; Chattopadhyay, S.; Chattopadhyay, S.; Chauvin, A.; Chelnokov, V.; Cherney, M.; Cheshkov, C.; Cheynis, B.; Chibante Barroso, V.; Chinellato, D. D.; Cho, S.; Chochula, P.; Choi, K.; Chojnacki, M.; Choudhury, S.; Christakoglou, P.; Christensen, C. H.; Christiansen, P.; Chujo, T.; Chung, S. U.; Cicalo, C.; Cifarelli, L.; Cindolo, F.; Cleymans, J.; Colamaria, F.; Colella, D.; Collu, A.; Colocci, M.; Conesa Balbastre, G.; Conesa del Valle, Z.; Connors, M. E.; Contreras, J. G.; Cormier, T. M.; Corrales Morales, Y.; Cortés Maldonado, I.; Cortese, P.; Cosentino, M. R.; Costa, F.; Crkovska, J.; Crochet, P.; Cruz Albino, R.; Cuautle, E.; Cunqueiro, L.; Dahms, T.; Dainese, A.; Danisch, M. C.; Danu, A.; Das, D.; Das, I.; Das, S.; Dash, A.; Dash, S.; De, S.; De Caro, A.; de Cataldo, G.; de Conti, C.; de Cuveland, J.; De Falco, A.; De Gruttola, D.; De Marco, N.; De Pasquale, S.; De Souza, R. D.; Deisting, A.; Deloff, A.; Dénes, E.; Deplano, C.; Dhankher, P.; Di Bari, D.; Di Mauro, A.; Di Nezza, P.; Di Ruzza, B.; Diaz Corchero, M. A.; Dietel, T.; Dillenseger, P.; Divià, R.; Djuvsland, Ø.; Dobrin, A.; Domenicis Gimenez, D.; Dönigus, B.; Dordic, O.; Drozhzhova, T.; Dubey, A. K.; Dubla, A.; Ducroux, L.; Dupieux, P.; Ehlers, R. J.; Elia, D.; Endress, E.; Engel, H.; Epple, E.; Erazmus, B.; Erdemir, I.; Erhardt, F.; Espagnon, B.; Estienne, M.; Esumi, S.; Eulisse, G.; Eum, J.; Evans, D.; Evdokimov, S.; Eyyubova, G.; Fabbietti, L.; Fabris, D.; Faivre, J.; Fantoni, A.; Fasel, M.; Feldkamp, L.; Feliciello, A.; Feofilov, G.; Ferencei, J.; Fernández Téllez, A.; Ferreiro, E. G.; Ferretti, A.; Festanti, A.; Feuillard, V. J. G.; Figiel, J.; Figueredo, M. A. S.; Filchagin, S.; Finogeev, D.; Fionda, F. M.; Fiore, E. M.; Floris, M.; Foertsch, S.; Foka, P.; Fokin, S.; Fragiacomo, E.; Francescon, A.; Francisco, A.; Frankenfeld, U.; Fronze, G. G.; Fuchs, U.; Furget, C.; Furs, A.; Fusco Girard, M.; Gaardhøje, J. J.; Gagliardi, M.; Gago, A. M.; Gajdosova, K.; Gallio, M.; Galvan, C. D.; Gangadharan, D. R.; Ganoti, P.; Gao, C.; Garabatos, C.; Garcia-Solis, E.; Garg, K.; Gargiulo, C.; Gasik, P.; Gauger, E. F.; Germain, M.; Gheata, M.; Ghosh, P.; Ghosh, S. K.; Gianotti, P.; Giubellino, P.; Giubilato, P.; Gladysz-Dziadus, E.; Glässel, P.; Goméz Coral, D. M.; Gomez Ramirez, A.; Gonzalez, A. S.; Gonzalez, V.; González-Zamora, P.; Gorbunov, S.; Görlich, L.; Gotovac, S.; Grabski, V.; Grachov, O. A.; Graczykowski, L. K.; Graham, K. L.; Grelli, A.; Grigoras, A.; Grigoras, C.; Grigoriev, V.; Grigoryan, A.; Grigoryan, S.; Grinyov, B.; Grion, N.; Gronefeld, J. M.; Grosse-Oetringhaus, J. F.; Grosso, R.; Gruber, L.; Guber, F.; Guernane, R.; Guerzoni, B.; Gulbrandsen, K.; Gunji, T.; Gupta, A.; Gupta, R.; Guzman, I. B.; Haake, R.; Hadjidakis, C.; Haiduc, M.; Hamagaki, H.; Hamar, G.; Hamon, J. C.; Harris, J. W.; Harton, A.; Hatzifotiadou, D.; Hayashi, S.; Heckel, S. T.; Hellbär, E.; Helstrup, H.; Herghelegiu, A.; Herrera Corral, G.; Herrmann, F.; Hess, B. A.; Hetland, K. F.; Hillemanns, H.; Hippolyte, B.; Horak, D.; Hosokawa, R.; Hristov, P.; Hughes, C.; Humanic, T. J.; Hussain, N.; Hussain, T.; Hutter, D.; Hwang, D. S.; Ilkaev, R.; Inaba, M.; Incani, E.; Ippolitov, M.; Irfan, M.; Isakov, V.; Ivanov, M.; Ivanov, V.; Izucheev, V.; Jacak, B.; Jacazio, N.; Jacobs, P. M.; Jadhav, M. B.; Jadlovska, S.; Jadlovsky, J.; Jahnke, C.; Jakubowska, M. J.; Janik, M. A.; Jayarathna, P. H. S. Y.; Jena, C.; Jena, S.; Jimenez Bustamante, R. T.; Jones, P. G.; Jusko, A.; Kalinak, P.; Kalweit, A.; Kang, J. H.; Kaplin, V.; Kar, S.; Karasu Uysal, A.; Karavichev, O.; Karavicheva, T.; Karayan, L.; Karpechev, E.; Kebschull, U.; Keidel, R.; Keijdener, D. L. D.; Keil, M.; Mohisin Khan, M.; Khan, P.; Khan, S. A.; Khanzadeev, A.; Kharlov, Y.; Khatun, A.; Kileng, B.; Kim, D. W.; Kim, D. J.; Kim, D.; Kim, H.; Kim, J. S.; Kim, J.; Kim, M.; Kim, S.; Kim, T.; Kirsch, S.; Kisel, I.; Kiselev, S.; Kisiel, A.; Kiss, G.; Klay, J. L.; Klein, C.; Klein, J.; Klein-Bösing, C.; Klewin, S.; Kluge, A.; Knichel, M. L.; Knospe, A. G.; Kobdaj, C.; Kofarago, M.; Kollegger, T.; Kolojvari, A.; Kondratiev, V.; Kondratyeva, N.; Kondratyuk, E.; Konevskikh, A.; Kopcik, M.; Kour, M.; Kouzinopoulos, C.; Kovalenko, O.; Kovalenko, V.; Kowalski, M.; Koyithatta Meethaleveedu, G.; Králik, I.; Kravčáková, A.; Krivda, M.; Krizek, F.; Kryshen, E.; Krzewicki, M.; Kubera, A. M.; Kučera, V.; Kuhn, C.; Kuijer, P. G.; Kumar, A.; Kumar, J.; Kumar, L.; Kumar, S.; Kurashvili, P.; Kurepin, A.; Kurepin, A. B.; Kuryakin, A.; Kweon, M. J.; Kwon, Y.; La Pointe, S. L.; La Rocca, P.; Ladron de Guevara, P.; Lagana Fernandes, C.; Lakomov, I.; Langoy, R.; Lapidus, K.; Lara, C.; Lardeux, A.; Lattuca, A.; Laudi, E.; Lea, R.; Leardini, L.; Lee, S.; Lehas, F.; Lehner, S.; Lemmon, R. C.; Lenti, V.; Leogrande, E.; León Monzón, I.; León Vargas, H.; Leoncino, M.; Lévai, P.; Li, S.; Li, X.; Lien, J.; Lietava, R.; Lindal, S.; Lindenstruth, V.; Lippmann, C.; Lisa, M. A.; Ljunggren, H. M.; Lodato, D. F.; Loenne, P. I.; Loginov, V.; Loizides, C.; Lopez, X.; López Torres, E.; Lowe, A.; Luettig, P.; Lunardon, M.; Luparello, G.; Lupi, M.; Lutz, T. H.; Maevskaya, A.; Mager, M.; Mahajan, S.; Mahmood, S. M.; Maire, A.; Majka, R. D.; Malaev, M.; Maldonado Cervantes, I.; Malinina, L.; Mal'Kevich, D.; Malzacher, P.; Mamonov, A.; Manko, V.; Manso, F.; Manzari, V.; Mao, Y.; Marchisone, M.; Mareš, J.; Margagliotti, G. V.; Margotti, A.; Margutti, J.; Marín, A.; Markert, C.; Marquard, M.; Martin, N. A.; Martinengo, P.; Martínez, M. I.; Martínez García, G.; Martinez Pedreira, M.; Mas, A.; Masciocchi, S.; Masera, M.; Masoni, A.; Mastroserio, A.; Matyja, A.; Mayer, C.; Mazer, J.; Mazzilli, M.; Mazzoni, M. A.; Meddi, F.; Melikyan, Y.; Menchaca-Rocha, A.; Meninno, E.; Mercado Pérez, J.; Meres, M.; Mhlanga, S.; Miake, Y.; Mieskolainen, M. M.; Mikhaylov, K.; Milano, L.; Milosevic, J.; Mischke, A.; Mishra, A. N.; Mishra, T.; Miskowiec, D.; Mitra, J.; Mitu, C. M.; Mohammadi, N.; Mohanty, B.; Molnar, L.; Montaño Zetina, L.; Montes, E.; Moreira De Godoy, D. A.; Moreno, L. A. P.; Moretto, S.; Morreale, A.; Morsch, A.; Muccifora, V.; Mudnic, E.; Mühlheim, D.; Muhuri, S.; Mukherjee, M.; Mulligan, J. D.; Munhoz, M. G.; Münning, K.; Munzer, R. H.; Murakami, H.; Murray, S.; Musa, L.; Musinsky, J.; Naik, B.; Nair, R.; Nandi, B. K.; Nania, R.; Nappi, E.; Naru, M. U.; Natal da Luz, H.; Nattrass, C.; Navarro, S. R.; Nayak, K.; Nayak, R.; Nayak, T. K.; Nazarenko, S.; Nedosekin, A.; Negrao De Oliveira, R. A.; Nellen, L.; Ng, F.; Nicassio, M.; Niculescu, M.; Niedziela, J.; Nielsen, B. S.; Nikolaev, S.; Nikulin, S.; Nikulin, V.; Noferini, F.; Nomokonov, P.; Nooren, G.; Noris, J. C. C.; Norman, J.; Nyanin, A.; Nystrand, J.; Oeschler, H.; Oh, S.; Oh, S. K.; Ohlson, A.; Okatan, A.; Okubo, T.; Oleniacz, J.; Oliveira Da Silva, A. C.; Oliver, M. H.; Onderwaater, J.; Oppedisano, C.; Orava, R.; Oravec, M.; Ortiz Velasquez, A.; Oskarsson, A.; Otwinowski, J.; Oyama, K.; Ozdemir, M.; Pachmayer, Y.; Pagano, D.; Pagano, P.; Paić, G.; Pal, S. K.; Palni, P.; Pan, J.; Pandey, A. K.; Papikyan, V.; Pappalardo, G. S.; Pareek, P.; Park, W. J.; Parmar, S.; Passfeld, A.; Paticchio, V.; Patra, R. N.; Paul, B.; Pei, H.; Peitzmann, T.; Peng, X.; Pereira Da Costa, H.; Peresunko, D.; Perez Lezama, E.; Peskov, V.; Pestov, Y.; Petráček, V.; Petrov, V.; Petrovici, M.; Petta, C.; Piano, S.; Pikna, M.; Pillot, P.; Pimentel, L. O. D. L.; Pinazza, O.; Pinsky, L.; Piyarathna, D. B.; Ploskon, M.; Planinic, M.; Pluta, J.; Pochybova, S.; Podesta-Lerma, P. L. M.; Poghosyan, M. G.; Polichtchouk, B.; Poljak, N.; Poonsawat, W.; Pop, A.; Poppenborg, H.; Porteboeuf-Houssais, S.; Porter, J.; Pospisil, J.; Prasad, S. K.; Preghenella, R.; Prino, F.; Pruneau, C. A.; Pshenichnov, I.; Puccio, M.; Puddu, G.; Pujahari, P.; Punin, V.; Putschke, J.; Qvigstad, H.; Rachevski, A.; Raha, S.; Rajput, S.; Rak, J.; Rakotozafindrabe, A.; Ramello, L.; Rami, F.; Raniwala, R.; Raniwala, S.; Räsänen, S. S.; Rascanu, B. T.; Rathee, D.; Ravasenga, I.; Read, K. F.; Redlich, K.; Reed, R. J.; Rehman, A.; Reichelt, P.; Reidt, F.; Ren, X.; Renfordt, R.; Reolon, A. R.; Reshetin, A.; Reygers, K.; Riabov, V.; Ricci, R. A.; Richert, T.; Richter, M.; Riedler, P.; Riegler, W.; Riggi, F.; Ristea, C.; Rodríguez Cahuantzi, M.; Rodriguez Manso, A.; Røed, K.; Rogochaya, E.; Rohr, D.; Röhrich, D.; Ronchetti, F.; Ronflette, L.; Rosnet, P.; Rossi, A.; Roukoutakis, F.; Roy, A.; Roy, C.; Roy, P.; Rubio Montero, A. J.; Rui, R.; Russo, R.; Ryabinkin, E.; Ryabov, Y.; Rybicki, A.; Saarinen, S.; Sadhu, S.; Sadovsky, S.; Šafařík, K.; Sahlmuller, B.; Sahoo, P.; Sahoo, R.; Sahoo, S.; Sahu, P. K.; Saini, J.; Sakai, S.; Saleh, M. A.; Salzwedel, J.; Sambyal, S.; Samsonov, V.; Šándor, L.; Sandoval, A.; Sano, M.; Sarkar, D.; Sarkar, N.; Sarma, P.; Scapparone, E.; Scarlassara, F.; Schiaua, C.; Schicker, R.; Schmidt, C.; Schmidt, H. R.; Schmidt, M.; Schuchmann, S.; Schukraft, J.; Schutz, Y.; Schwarz, K.; Schweda, K.; Scioli, G.; Scomparin, E.; Scott, R.; Šefčík, M.; Seger, J. E.; Sekiguchi, Y.; Sekihata, D.; Selyuzhenkov, I.; Senosi, K.; Senyukov, S.; Serradilla, E.; Sevcenco, A.; Shabanov, A.; Shabetai, A.; Shadura, O.; Shahoyan, R.; Shangaraev, A.; Sharma, A.; Sharma, M.; Sharma, M.; Sharma, N.; Sheikh, A. I.; Shigaki, K.; Shou, Q.; Shtejer, K.; Sibiriak, Y.; Siddhanta, S.; Sielewicz, K. M.; Siemiarczuk, T.; Silvermyr, D.; Silvestre, C.; Simatovic, G.; Simonetti, G.; Singaraju, R.; Singh, R.; Singhal, V.; Sinha, T.; Sitar, B.; Sitta, M.; Skaali, T. B.; Slupecki, M.; Smirnov, N.; Snellings, R. J. M.; Snellman, T. W.; Song, J.; Song, M.; Song, Z.; Soramel, F.; Sorensen, S.; Sozzi, F.; Spiriti, E.; Sputowska, I.; Spyropoulou-Stassinaki, M.; Stachel, J.; Stan, I.; Stankus, P.; Stenlund, E.; Steyn, G.; Stiller, J. H.; Stocco, D.; Strmen, P.; Suaide, A. A. P.; Sugitate, T.; Suire, C.; Suleymanov, M.; Suljic, M.; Sultanov, R.; Šumbera, M.; Sumowidagdo, S.; Swain, S.; Szabo, A.; Szarka, I.; Szczepankiewicz, A.; Szymanski, M.; Tabassam, U.; Takahashi, J.; Tambave, G. J.; Tanaka, N.; Tarhini, M.; Tariq, M.; Tarzila, M. G.; Tauro, A.; Tejeda Muñoz, G.; Telesca, A.; Terasaki, K.; Terrevoli, C.; Teyssier, B.; Thäder, J.; Thakur, D.; Thomas, D.; Tieulent, R.; Tikhonov, A.; Timmins, A. R.; Toia, A.; Trogolo, S.; Trombetta, G.; Trubnikov, V.; Trzaska, W. H.; Tsuji, T.; Tumkin, A.; Turrisi, R.; Tveter, T. S.; Ullaland, K.; Uras, A.; Usai, G. L.; Utrobicic, A.; Vala, M.; Valencia Palomo, L.; Van Der Maarel, J.; Van Hoorne, J. W.; van Leeuwen, M.; Vanat, T.; Vande Vyvre, P.; Varga, D.; Vargas, A.; Vargyas, M.; Varma, R.; Vasileiou, M.; Vasiliev, A.; Vauthier, A.; Vázquez Doce, O.; Vechernin, V.; Veen, A. M.; Velure, A.; Vercellin, E.; Vergara Limón, S.; Vernet, R.; Vickovic, L.; Viinikainen, J.; Vilakazi, Z.; Villalobos Baillie, O.; Villatoro Tello, A.; Vinogradov, A.; Vinogradov, L.; Virgili, T.; Vislavicius, V.; Viyogi, Y. P.; Vodopyanov, A.; Völkl, M. A.; Voloshin, K.; Voloshin, S. A.; Volpe, G.; von Haller, B.; Vorobyev, I.; Vranic, D.; Vrláková, J.; Vulpescu, B.; Wagner, B.; Wagner, J.; Wang, H.; Wang, M.; Watanabe, D.; Watanabe, Y.; Weber, M.; Weber, S. G.; Weiser, D. F.; Wessels, J. P.; Westerhoff, U.; Whitehead, A. M.; Wiechula, J.; Wikne, J.; Wilk, G.; Wilkinson, J.; Willems, G. A.; Williams, M. C. S.; Windelband, B.; Winn, M.; Yalcin, S.; Yang, P.; Yano, S.; Yin, Z.; Yokoyama, H.; Yoo, I.-K.; Yoon, J. H.; Yurchenko, V.; Zaborowska, A.; Zaccolo, V.; Zaman, A.; Zampolli, C.; Zanoli, H. J. C.; Zaporozhets, S.; Zardoshti, N.; Zarochentsev, A.; Závada, P.; Zaviyalov, N.; Zbroszczyk, H.; Zgura, I. S.; Zhalov, M.; Zhang, H.; Zhang, X.; Zhang, Y.; Zhang, C.; Zhang, Z.; Zhao, C.; Zhigareva, N.; Zhou, D.; Zhou, Y.; Zhou, Z.; Zhu, H.; Zhu, J.; Zichichi, A.; Zimmermann, A.; Zimmermann, M. B.; Zinovjev, G.; Zyzak, M.

2016-09-01

The elliptic, triangular, quadrangular and pentagonal anisotropic flow coefficients for π±, K± and p+overline{p} in Pb-Pb collisions at √{s_{NN}}=2.76 TeV were measured with the ALICE detector at the Large Hadron Collider. The results were obtained with the Scalar Product method, correlating the identified hadrons with reference particles from a different pseudorapidity region. Effects not related to the common event symmetry planes (non-flow) were estimated using correlations in pp collisions and were subtracted from the measurement. The obtained flow coefficients exhibit a clear mass ordering for transverse momentum ( p T) values below ≈ 3 GeV/ c. In the intermediate p T region (3 < p T < 6 GeV/ c), particles group at an approximate level according to the number of constituent quarks, suggesting that coalescence might be the relevant particle production mechanism in this region. The results for p T < 3 GeV/ c are described fairly well by a hydrodynamical model (iEBE-VISHNU) that uses initial conditions generated by A Multi-Phase Transport model (AMPT) and describes the expansion of the fireball using a value of 0.08 for the ratio of shear viscosity to entropy density ( η/s), coupled to a hadronic cascade model (UrQMD). Finally, expectations from AMPT alone fail to quantitatively describe the measurements for all harmonics throughout the measured transverse momentum region. However, the comparison to the AMPT model highlights the importance of the late hadronic rescattering stage to the development of the observed mass ordering at low values of p T and of coalescence as a particle production mechanism for the particle type grouping at intermediate values of p T for all harmonics. [Figure not available: see fulltext.

Higher harmonic flow coefficients of identified hadrons in Pb-Pb collisions at $$\\sqrt{s_{\\mathrm{NN}}}=2.76 $$ TeV

DOE PAGES

Adam, J.; Adamová, D.; Aggarwal, M. M.; ...

2016-09-28

The elliptic, triangular, quadrangular and pentagonal anisotropic flow coefficients for π ± , K ± and p +more » $$\\bar{p}$$ in Pb-Pb collisions at √s NN=2.76 TeV were measured with the ALICE detector at the Large Hadron Collider. The results were obtained with the Scalar Product method, correlating the identified hadrons with reference particles from a different pseudorapidity region. Effects not related to the common event symmetry planes (non-flow) were estimated using correlations in pp collisions and were subtracted from the measurement. The obtained flow coefficients exhibit a clear mass ordering for transverse momentum (p T ) values below ≈ 3 GeV/c. In the intermediate p T region (3 < p T < 6 GeV/c), particles group at an approximate level according to the number of constituent quarks, suggesting that coalescence might be the relevant particle production mechanism in this region. The results for p T < 3 GeV/c are described fairly well by a hydrodynamical model (iEBE-VISHNU) that uses initial conditions generated by A Multi-Phase Transport model (AMPT) and describes the expansion of the fireball using a value of 0.08 for the ratio of shear viscosity to entropy density (η/s), coupled to a hadronic cascade model (UrQMD). Finally, expectations from AMPT alone fail to quantitatively describe the measurements for all harmonics throughout the measured transverse momentum region. However, the comparison to the AMPT model highlights the importance of the late hadronic rescattering stage to the development of the observed mass ordering at low values of p T and of coalescence as a particle production mechanism for the particle type grouping at intermediate values of p T for all harmonics.« less

Formulae Based on Biomathematics to Estimate the Standard Value of Fetal Growth of Japanese.

PubMed

Miyagi, Yasunari; Tada, Katsuhiko; Takayoshi, Riko; Oguni, Nobutsugu; Sato, Yasushi; Shibata, Maki; Kiyokawa, Machiko; Hashimoto, Tadashi; Takada, Tomoyoshi; Oda, Takashi; Miyake, Takahito

2018-04-01

We devised biomathematics-based formulae to estimate the standard values of fetal growth of Japanese after 22 weeks' gestation. The growth rates of bi-parietal diameter (BPD), abdominal circumference (AC), femur length (FL), and estimated fetal body weight (EFBW) at the time of gestation were assumed to be proportional to the product of the value at the time and the rest value of an unknown maximum value, respectively. The EFBW was also assumed to follow a multiple logistic function of BPD, AC and FL to fit the standard values of Japanese fetuses published by the Japan Society of Ultrasonics in Medicine. The Mann-Whitney test was used for statistical analysis. The values as a function of gestational day, t, were as follows: BPD(t)=99.6/(1+exp (2.725-0.01837＊t)) (mm); AC(t)=39.7/(1+exp (2.454-0.01379＊t)) (cm); FL(t)=79.6/(1+exp (2.851-0.01710＊t)) (mm); EFBW(t)=8045.1/(1+exp (6.028-0.06582＊BPD(t)-0.1469＊AC(t)+ 0.07377＊FL(t))) (g). EFBW as a function of BPD, AC and FL was as follows: EFBW=8045.1/(1+exp (4.747+ 0.02584＊BPD+0.1010＊AC-0.1416＊FL)) (g). When the BPD, AC and FL were at -2 standard deviation (SD), -1SD, mean and + 2SD, the EFBW values calculated by the formula were statistically closer to the standard values than conventional formulas with p-values of 4.871×10-7, 4.228×10-7, 9.777×10-7 and 0.028, respectively. The formulae based on biomathematics might be useful to estimate the fetal growth standard values.

Inverse gas chromatographic determination of solubility parameters of excipients.

PubMed

Adamska, Katarzyna; Voelkel, Adam

2005-11-04

The principle aim of this work was an application of inverse gas chromatography (IGC) for the estimation of solubility parameter for pharmaceutical excipients. The retention data of number of test solutes were used to calculate Flory-Huggins interaction parameter (chi1,2infinity) and than solubility parameter (delta2), corrected solubility parameter (deltaT) and its components (deltad, deltap, deltah) by using different procedures. The influence of different values of test solutes solubility parameter (delta1) over calculated values was estimated. The solubility parameter values obtained for all excipients from the slope, from Guillet and co-workers' procedure are higher than that obtained from components according Voelkel and Janas procedure. It was found that solubility parameter's value of the test solutes influences, but not significantly, values of solubility parameter of excipients.

Studies on some edible wild mushrooms from Nigeria: 1. Nutritional, teratogenic and toxic considerations.

PubMed

Adewusi, S R; Alofe, F V; Odeyemi, O; Afolabi, O A; Oke, O L

1993-03-01

The biological value of 5 mushrooms Chlorophyllum molybditis, Psathyrella atroumbonata, Termitomyces robustus, Termitomyces striatus and Volvariella esculenta from our collection of wild edible mushrooms were determined using weanling rats. C. molybditis supported rapid growth with PER (2.63) higher than the casein control (2.50). P. atroumbonata was average in biological performance (PER 1.50) while T. robustus and V. esculenta did not support growth at all. Rats on T. striatus dried at 60 degrees C for 48 h lost weight rapidly and showed pathological signs of toxicity by the second day. All rats on this diet died by the fourth day of the experiment. When the diet of T. striatus dried at 90 degrees C for about 8 h was fed, the rats gained weight marginally but all survived. Prolonged storage of T. striatus at 60 degrees C for 5-8 weeks also seemed to detoxify the poisonous component such that PER and NPR values were 0.8 and 2.0 respectively. 2 pairs each of adult rats fed C. molybditis and Tricholoma lobayensis diets for 10 days were mated. Rats of C. molybditis diet gave 5 and 6 litters each and only one of these litters seemed to have retarded growth. Rats on T. lobayensis diet did not produce any litters for 14 weeks but the female produced off-spring when mated with control male rats.

An Apparent Diffusion Coefficient Histogram Method Versus a Traditional 2-Dimensional Measurement Method for Identifying Non-Puerperal Mastitis From Breast Cancer at 3.0 T.

PubMed

Tang, Qi; Li, Qiang; Xie, Dong; Chu, Ketao; Liu, Lidong; Liao, Chengcheng; Qin, Yunying; Wang, Zheng; Su, Danke

2018-05-21

This study aimed to investigate the utility of a volumetric apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) histogram method for distinguishing non-puerperal mastitis (NPM) from breast cancer (BC) and to compare this method with a traditional 2-dimensional measurement method. Pretreatment diffusion-weighted imaging data at 3.0 T were obtained for 80 patients (NPM, n = 27; BC, n = 53) and were retrospectively assessed. Two readers measured ADC values according to 2 distinct region-of-interest (ROI) protocols. The first protocol included the generation of ADC histograms for each lesion, and various parameters were examined. In the second protocol, 3 freehand (TF) ROIs for local lesions were generated to obtain a mean ADC value (defined as ADC-ROITF). All of the ADC values were compared by an independent-samples t test or the Mann-Whitney U test. Receiver operating characteristic curves and a leave-one-out cross-validation method were also used to determine diagnostic deficiencies of the significant parameters. The ADC values for NPM were characterized by significantly higher mean, 5th to 95th percentiles, and maximum and mode ADCs compared with the corresponding ADCs for BC (all P < 0.05). However, the minimum, skewness, and kurtosis ADC values, as well as ADC-ROITF, did not significantly differ between the NPM and BC cases. Thus, the generation of volumetric ADC histograms seems to be a superior method to the traditional 2-dimensional method that was examined, and it also seems to represent a promising image analysis method for distinguishing NPM from BC.

Comparison of growth performance, carcass components, and meat quality between Mos rooster (Galician indigenous breed) and Sasso T-44 line slaughtered at 10 months.

PubMed

Franco, D; Rois, D; Vázquez, J A; Lorenzo, J M

2012-05-01

The aim of this research was to make a full study of the meat from Mos-breed roosters (Spanish indigenous chicken). To achieve this purpose, the type of breed (Mos vs. a hybrid line, Sasso T-44) and the effect of finishing treatment in the last month (corn vs. commercial fodder) on growth performance, carcass and meat quality (physicochemical and textural traits), fatty and amino acid profile, and sensorial description were studied. The finishing feeding effect did not modify the growth, but the differences between genotypes were statistically significant (P < 0.05), in where Sasso T-44 was the genotype that generated the best growths and associated parameters. With regard to carcass characteristics, no significant influences of finishing feeding treatment (P > 0.05) were found, and carcass weight clearly differed between genotypes due to the lower growth rate of Mos roosters. Drumstick, thigh, and wing percentages were greater in Mos breed than in Sasso T-44 birds, whereas breast (15.2%), that is the most highly valued piece of the chicken, was similar for both genotypes. Significant differences in pH, protein, and ash content between genotypes have been found, whereas finishing feeding treatment had an effect on myoglobin and redness index (P < 0.01), showing meat from roosters fed with corn had a higher luminosity. Despite the fact of the slaughtered age of birds, values of shear force were slightly higher than 2 kg (2.11 kg) for both genotypes, thus it can be classified as very tender meat. Mos breed showed a higher percentage of polyunsaturated fatty acids (25.90 vs. 22.74; P < 0.001) and a lower percentage of monounsaturated fatty acids (35.14 vs. 38.95; P < 0.001) than Sasso T-44 chicken muscles. Surprisingly, birds finishing with the corn diet (2 times higher in linolenic acid than fodder) did not increase their polyunsaturated fatty acid level in the breast, obtaining in the Mos breed a polyunsaturated to saturated fatty acid ratio of 0.69. The amino acid profile of the indigenous-breed breast was not similar to that of the commercial-strain breast; besides, finishing feeding treatment had more of an effect on amino acid profile, affecting the majority of amino acids, with the exception of phenylalanine and threonine.

Evaluation of the relationship between T1ρ and T2 values and patella cartilage degeneration in patients of the same age group.

PubMed

Nishioka, Hiroaki; Hirose, Jun; Okamoto, Nobukazu; Okada, Tatsuya; Oka, Kiyoshi; Taniwaki, Takuya; Nakamura, Eiichi; Yamashita, Yasuyuki; Mizuta, Hiroshi

2015-03-01

The aim of this study was to investigate the association between the T1ρ and T2 values and the progression of cartilage degeneration in patients of the same age group. Sagittal T1ρ and T2 mapping and three-dimensional (3D) gradient-echo images were obtained from 78 subjects with medial knee osteoarthritis (OA). The degree of patella cartilage degeneration was classified into four groups using MRI-based grading: apparently normal cartilage, mild OA, moderate OA, and severe OA group. We measured the T1ρ and T2 values (ms) in the regions of interest set on the full-thickness patella cartilage. Then, we analyzed the relationship between the T1ρ and T2 values and the degree of patella cartilage degeneration. There were no significant differences in age among the four groups. Both the T1ρ and T2 values showed a positive correlation with the degree of OA progression (ρ=0.737 and ρ=0.632, respectively). By comparison between the apparently normal cartilage and the mild OA groups, there were significant differences in the T1ρ mapping, but not in the T2 mapping. Our study confirmed that T1ρ and T2 mapping can quantitatively evaluate the degree of patella cartilage degeneration in patients within the same age group. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Electronic structure and magnetic properties of disordered Co{sub 2}FeAl Heusler alloy

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

Jain, Vishal, E-mail: vjain045@gmail.com; Jain, Vivek, E-mail: vjain045@gmail.com; Sudheesh, V. D., E-mail: vjain045@gmail.com

The effects of disorder on the magnetic properties of Co{sub 2}FeAl alloy are reported. X-ray diffraction exhibit A2-type disordered structure. Room temperature Mössbauer studies show the presence of two sextets with hyperfine field values of 31T and 30T along with a nonmagnetic singlet. The electronic structure of ordered and disordered Co{sub 2}FeAl alloys, investigated by means of the KKR Green's-function method shows that the magnetic moment of the ordered structure is 5.08μ{sub B} and is 5.10μ{sub B} when disordered. However, a much higher magnetic moment of 5.74μ{sub B} is observed experimentally.

Mode Selection Rules for a Two-Delay System with Positive and Negative Feedback Loops

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Takahashi, Kin'ya; Kobayashi, Taizo

2018-04-01

The mode selection rules for a two-delay system, which has negative feedback with a short delay time t1 and positive feedback with a long delay time t2, are studied numerically and theoretically. We find two types of mode selection rules depending on the strength of the negative feedback. When the strength of the negative feedback |α1| (α1 < 0) is sufficiently small compared with that of the positive feedback α2 (> 0), 2m + 1-th harmonic oscillation is well sustained in a neighborhood of t1/t2 = even/odd, i.e., relevant condition. In a neighborhood of the irrelevant condition given by t1/t2 = odd/even or t1/t2 = odd/odd, higher harmonic oscillations are observed. However, if |α1| is slightly less than α2, a different mode selection rule works, where the condition t1/t2 = odd/even is relevant and the conditions t1/t2 = odd/odd and t1/t2 = even/odd are irrelevant. These mode selection rules are different from the mode selection rule of the normal two-delay system with two positive feedback loops, where t1/t2 = odd/odd is relevant and the others are irrelevant. The two types of mode selection rules are induced by individually different mechanisms controlling the Hopf bifurcation, i.e., the Hopf bifurcation controlled by the "boosted bifurcation process" and by the "anomalous bifurcation process", which occur for |α1| below and above the threshold value αth, respectively.

Strong flux pinning at 4.2 K in SmBa2Cu3O y coated conductors with BaHfO3 nanorods controlled by low growth temperature

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Miura, S.; Tsuchiya, Y.; Yoshida, Y.; Ichino, Y.; Awaji, S.; Matsumoto, K.; Ibi, A.; Izumi, T.

2017-08-01

In order to apply REBa2Cu3O y (REBCO, RE = rare earth elements or Y) coated conductors in high magnetic field, coil-based applications, the isotropic improvement of their critical current performance with respect to the directions of the magnetic field under these operating conditions is required. Most applications operate at temperatures lower than 50 K and magnetic fields over 2 T. In this study, the improvement of critical current density (J c) performance for various applied magnetic field directions was achieved by controlling the nanostructure of the BaHfO3 (BHO)-doped SmBa2Cu3O y (SmBCO) films on metallic substrates. The corresponding minimum J c value of the films at 40 K under an applied 3 T field was 5.2 MA cm-2, which is over ten times higher than that of a fully optimized Nb-Ti wire at 4.2 K. At 4.2 K, under a 17.5 T field, a flux pinning force density of 1.4 TN m-3 for B//c was realized; this value is among the highest values reported for REBCO films to date. More importantly, the F p for B//c corresponds to the minimum value for various applied magnetic field directions. We investigated the dominant flux pinning centers of films at 4.2 K using the anisotropic scaling approach based on the effective mass model. The dominant flux pinning centers are random pinning centers at 4.2 K, i.e., a high pinning performance was achieved by the high number density of random pins in the matrix of the BHO-doped SmBCO films.

Non-contrast magnetic resonance imaging for bladder cancer: fused high b value diffusion-weighted imaging and T2-weighted imaging helps evaluate depth of invasion.

PubMed

Lee, Minsu; Shin, Su-Jin; Oh, Young Taik; Jung, Dae Chul; Cho, Nam Hoon; Choi, Young Deuk; Park, Sung Yoon

2017-09-01

To investigate the utility of fused high b value diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) and T2-weighted imaging (T2WI) for evaluating depth of invasion in bladder cancer. We included 62 patients with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and surgically confirmed urothelial carcinoma in the urinary bladder. An experienced genitourinary radiologist analysed the depth of invasion (T stage <2 or ≥2) using T2WI, DWI, T2WI plus DWI, and fused DWI and T2WI (fusion MRI). Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV) and accuracy were investigated. Area under the curve (AUC) was analysed to identify T stage ≥2. The rate of patients with surgically confirmed T stage ≥2 was 41.9% (26/62). Sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV and accuracy were 50.0%, 55.6%, 44.8%, 60.6% and 53.2%, respectively, with T2WI; 57.7%, 77.8%, 65.2%, 71.8% and 69.4%, respectively, with DWI; 65.4%, 80.6%, 70.8%, 76.3% and 74.2%, respectively, with T2WI plus DWI and 80.8%, 77.8%, 72.4%, 84.9% and 79.0%, respectively, with fusion MRI. AUC was 0.528 with T2WI, 0.677 with DWI, 0.730 with T2WI plus DWI and 0.793 with fusion MRI for T stage ≥2. Fused high b value DWI and T2WI may be a promising non-contrast MRI technique for assessing depth of invasion in bladder cancer. • Accuracy of fusion MRI was 79.0% for T stage ≥2 in bladder cancer. • AUC of fusion MRI was 0.793 for T stage ≥2 in bladder cancer. • Diagnostic performance of fusion MRI was comparable with T2WI plus DWI. • As a non-contrast MRI technique, fusion MRI is useful for bladder cancer.

Disposition in the rat of buprenorphine administered parenterally and as a subcutaneous implant.

PubMed

Pontani, R B; Vadlamani, N L; Misra, A L

1985-04-01

Disposition of [15, 16(n)-3H]buprenorphine in the rat has been investigated after a single 0.2 mg/kg i.v. bolus dose and continuous administration via a s.c. implantable long-acting delivery system. After the i.v. injection, the tri-exponential decay of drug from brain occurred with t1/2 values of 0.6, 2.3 and 7.2 h, respectively (plasma t1/2 0.5, 1.4 h, third phase not estimated due to sustained concn.) Decay of drug from another high-affinity binding site in brain occurred with t1/2 values of 1.1 and 68.7 h, respectively. Fat and lung had higher concn. than other tissues and plasma. No metabolites of drug were detected in brain. Unmetabolized drug excreted in urine and faeces one week after i.v. injection were 1.9 and 22.4% of dose, respectively, and 92% of the dose was accounted for in one week. Urinary metabolites (%) were: conjugated buprenorphine 0.9; norbuprenorphine (free 9.4, conjugated 5.2); tentative 6-O-desmethylnorbuprenorphine (free 5.4, conjugated 15.9). Peak plasma concn. of buprenorphine occurred four weeks after s.c. implantation of a long-acting 10 mg 3H-buprenorphine pellet, and apparent dissociation half-lives of drug from low- and high-affinity binding sites in brain were 4.6 and 6.8 weeks, respectively. Fat, spleen and skeletal muscle had higher concn. than other tissues and plasma. No significant difference in brain morphine concn. was observed in placebo and nonlabelled buprenorphine-pelleted animals after a 2 mg/kg i.v. challenge dose of 3H-morphine. This study emphasizes the importance of high-affinity binding of buprenorphine in brain and subsequent slow dissociation as a prime factor in its prolonged agonist/antagonist effects and higher potency than other narcotic agonists.

Non-contrast T1-mapping detects acute myocardial edema with high diagnostic accuracy: a comparison to T2-weighted cardiovascular magnetic resonance

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Background T2w-CMR is used widely to assess myocardial edema. Quantitative T1-mapping is also sensitive to changes in free water content. We hypothesized that T1-mapping would have a higher diagnostic performance in detecting acute edema than dark-blood and bright-blood T2w-CMR. Methods We investigated 21 controls (55 ± 13 years) and 21 patients (61 ± 10 years) with Takotsubo cardiomyopathy or acute regional myocardial edema without infarction. CMR performed within 7 days included cine, T1-mapping using ShMOLLI, dark-blood T2-STIR, bright-blood ACUT2E and LGE imaging. We analyzed wall motion, myocardial T1 values and T2 signal intensity (SI) ratio relative to both skeletal muscle and remote myocardium. Results All patients had acute cardiac symptoms, increased Troponin I (0.15-36.80 ug/L) and acute wall motion abnormalities but no LGE. T1 was increased in patient segments with abnormal and normal wall motion compared to controls (1113 ± 94 ms, 1029 ± 59 ms and 944 ± 17 ms, respectively; p < 0.001). T2 SI ratio using STIR and ACUT2E was also increased in patient segments with abnormal and normal wall motion compared to controls (all p < 0.02). Receiver operator characteristics analysis showed that T1-mapping had a significantly larger area-under-the-curve (AUC = 0.94) compared to T2-weighted methods, whether the reference ROI was skeletal muscle or remote myocardium (AUC = 0.58-0.89; p < 0.03). A T1 value of greater than 990 ms most optimally differentiated segments affected by edema from normal segments at 1.5 T, with a sensitivity and specificity of 92 %. Conclusions Non-contrast T1-mapping using ShMOLLI is a novel method for objectively detecting myocardial edema with a high diagnostic performance. T1-mapping may serve as a complementary technique to T2-weighted imaging for assessing myocardial edema in ischemic and non-ischemic heart disease, such as quantifying area-at-risk and diagnosing myocarditis. PMID:22720998

Multivariate Profiles of Selected versus Non-Selected Elite Youth Brazilian Soccer Players

PubMed Central

Alves, Isabella S.; Padilha, Maickel B.; Casanova, Filipe; Puggina, Enrico F.; Maia, José

2017-01-01

Abstract This study determined whether a multivariate profile more effectively discriminated selected than non-selected elite youth Brazilian soccer players. This examination was carried out on 66 youth soccer players (selected, n = 28, mean age 16.3 ± 0.1; non-selected, n = 38, mean age 16.7 ± 0.4) using objective instruments. Multivariate profiles were assessed through anthropometric characteristics, biological maturation, tactical-technical skills, and motor performance. The Student’s t-test identified that selected players exhibited significantly higher values for height (t = 2.331, p = 0.02), lean body mass (t = 2.441, p = 0.01), and maturity offset (t = 4.559, p < 0.001), as well as performed better in declarative tactical knowledge (t = 10.484, p < 0.001), shooting (t = 2.188, p = 0.03), dribbling (t = 5.914, p < 0.001), speed – 30 m (t = 8.304, p < 0.001), countermovement jump (t = 2.718, p = 0.008), and peak power tests (t = 2.454, p = 0.01). Forward stepwise discriminant function analysis showed that declarative tactical knowledge, running speed –30 m, maturity offset, dribbling, height, and peak power correctly classified 97% of the selected players. These findings may have implications for a highly efficient selection process with objective measures of youth players in soccer clubs. PMID:29339991

Nucleon form factors in dispersively improved chiral effective field theory. II. Electromagnetic form factors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alarcón, J. M.; Weiss, C.

2018-05-01

We study the nucleon electromagnetic form factors (EM FFs) using a recently developed method combining chiral effective field theory (χ EFT ) and dispersion analysis. The spectral functions on the two-pion cut at t >4 Mπ2 are constructed using the elastic unitarity relation and an N /D representation. χ EFT is used to calculate the real functions J±1(t ) =f±1(t ) /Fπ(t ) (ratios of the complex π π →N N ¯ partial-wave amplitudes and the timelike pion FF), which are free of π π rescattering. Rescattering effects are included through the empirical timelike pion FF | Fπ(t) | 2 . The method allows us to compute the isovector EM spectral functions up to t ˜1 GeV2 with controlled accuracy (leading order, next-to-leading order, and partial next-to-next-to-leading order). With the spectral functions we calculate the isovector nucleon EM FFs and their derivatives at t =0 (EM radii, moments) using subtracted dispersion relations. We predict the values of higher FF derivatives, which are not affected by higher-order chiral corrections and are obtained almost parameter-free in our approach, and explain their collective behavior. We estimate the individual proton and neutron FFs by adding an empirical parametrization of the isoscalar sector. Excellent agreement with the present low-Q2 FF data is achieved up to ˜0.5 GeV2 for GE, and up to ˜0.2 GeV2 for GM. Our results can be used to guide the analysis of low-Q2 elastic scattering data and the extraction of the proton charge radius.

Evaluation of MODIS Land Surface Temperature with In Situ Snow Surface Temperature from CREST-SAFE

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Perez Diaz, C. L.; Lakhankar, T.; Romanov, P.; Munoz, J.; Khanbilvardi, R.; Yu, Y.

2016-12-01

This paper presents the procedure and results of a temperature-based validation approach for the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) Land Surface Temperature (LST) product provided by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Terra and Aqua Earth Observing System satellites using in situ LST observations recorded at the Cooperative Remote Sensing Science and Technology Center - Snow Analysis and Field Experiment (CREST-SAFE) during the years of 2013 (January-April) and 2014 (February-April). A total of 314 day and night clear-sky thermal images, acquired by the Terra and Aqua satellites, were processed and compared to ground-truth data from CREST-SAFE with a frequency of one measurement every 3 min. Additionally, this investigation incorporated supplementary analyses using meteorological CREST-SAFE in situ variables (i.e. wind speed, cloud cover, incoming solar radiation) to study their effects on in situ snow surface temperature (T-skin) and T-air. Furthermore, a single pixel (1km2) and several spatially averaged pixels were used for satellite LST validation by increasing the MODIS window size to 5x5, 9x9, and 25x25 windows for comparison. Several trends in the MODIS LST data were observed, including the underestimation of daytime values and nighttime values. Results indicate that, although all the data sets (Terra and Aqua, diurnal and nocturnal) showed high correlation with ground measurements, day values yielded slightly higher accuracy ( 1°C), both suggesting that MODIS LST retrievals are reliable for similar land cover classes and atmospheric conditions. Results from the CREST-SAFE in situ variables' analyses indicate that T-air is commonly higher than T-skin, and that a lack of cloud cover results in: lower T-skin and higher T-air minus T-skin difference (T-diff). Additionally, the study revealed that T-diff is inversely proportional to cloud cover, wind speed, and incoming solar radiation. Increasing the MODIS window size showed an overestimation of in situ LST and some improvement in the daytime Terra and nighttime Aqua biases, with the highest accuracy achieved with the 5x5 window. A comparison between MODIS emmisivity from bands 31, 32, and in situ emissivity showed that emissivity errors (Relative error = -.003) were insignificant.

Comprehensive Endocrine-Metabolic Evaluation of Patients with Alström Syndrome Compared to BMI-Matched Controls.

PubMed

Han, Joan C; Reyes-Capo, Daniela P; Liu, Chia-Ying; Reynolds, James C; Turkbey, Evrim; Turkbey, Ismail Baris; Bryant, Joy; Marshall, Jan D; Naggert, Jürgen K; Gahl, William A; Yanovski, Jack A; Gunay-Aygun, Meral

2018-04-27

Alström syndrome (AS), a monogenic form of obesity, is caused by recessive mutations in the centrosome- and basal body-associated gene, ALMS1. AS is characterized by retinal dystrophy, sensory hearing loss, cardiomyopathy, childhood obesity, and metabolic derangements. We sought to characterize the endocrine and metabolic features of AS while accounting for obesity as a confounder by comparing patients with AS to BMI-matched controls. We evaluated 38 patients with AS (age 2-38y) who were matched with 76 controls (age 2-48y) by age, sex, race, and BMI. Fasting biochemistries, mixed meal test (MMT), indirect calorimetry, DEXA, and MRI/MRS were performed. Frequent abnormalities in AS included 76% obesity, 37% type 2 diabetes (T2DM), 29% hypothyroidism (1/3-central, 2/3-primary), 3% central adrenal insufficiency, 57% adult hypogonadism (1/3-central, 2/3-primary), and 25% female hyperandrogenism. AS and controls had similar BMI-Z, body fat, waist circumference, abdominal visceral fat, muscle fat, resting energy expenditure (adjusted for lean mass), free fatty acids, glucagon, prolactin, ACTH, and cortisol. Compared to controls, AS were shorter and had lower IGF1 concentrations (p's≤0.001). AS had significantly greater fasting and MMT insulin resistance indices, higher MMT glucose, insulin, and C-peptide values, higher hemoglobin A1c, and higher prevalence of T2DM (p's<0.001). AS had significantly higher triglycerides, lower HDL-cholesterol, and a 10-fold greater prevalence of metabolic syndrome (p's<0.001). AS demonstrated significantly greater liver triglyceride accumulation and higher transaminases (p's<0.001). Severe insulin resistance and T2DM are the hallmarks of AS. However, patients with AS may present with multiple other endocrinopathies affecting growth and development.

Signal-to-noise ratio, T2 , and T2* for hyperpolarized helium-3 MRI of the human lung at three magnetic field strengths.

PubMed

Komlosi, Peter; Altes, Talissa A; Qing, Kun; Mooney, Karen E; Miller, G Wilson; Mata, Jaime F; de Lange, Eduard E; Tobias, William A; Cates, Gordon D; Mugler, John P

2017-10-01

To evaluate T 2 , T2*, and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) for hyperpolarized helium-3 ( 3 He) MRI of the human lung at three magnetic field strengths ranging from 0.43T to 1.5T. Sixteen healthy volunteers were imaged using a commercial whole body scanner at 0.43T, 0.79T, and 1.5T. Whole-lung T 2 values were calculated from a Carr-Purcell-Meiboom-Gill spin-echo-train acquisition. T2* maps and SNR were determined from dual-echo and single-echo gradient-echo images, respectively. Mean whole-lung SNR values were normalized by ventilated lung volume and administered 3 He dose. As expected, T 2 and T2* values demonstrated a significant inverse relationship to field strength. Hyperpolarized 3 He images acquired at all three field strengths had comparable SNR values and thus appeared visually very similar. Nonetheless, the relatively small SNR differences among field strengths were statistically significant. Hyperpolarized 3 He images of the human lung with similar image quality were obtained at three field strengths ranging from 0.43T and 1.5T. The decrease in susceptibility effects at lower fields that are reflected in longer T 2 and T2* values may be advantageous for optimizing pulse sequences inherently sensitive to such effects. The three-fold increase in T2* at lower field strength would allow lower receiver bandwidths, providing a concomitant decrease in noise and relative increase in SNR. Magn Reson Med 78:1458-1463, 2017. © 2016 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine. © 2016 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.

Turbulent convective heat transfer of methane at supercritical pressure in a helical coiled tube

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Chenggang; Sun, Baokun; Lin, Wei; He, Fan; You, Yingqiang; Yu, Jiuyang

2018-02-01

The heat transfer of methane at supercritical pressure in a helically coiled tube was numerically investigated using the Reynolds Stress Model under constant wall temperature. The effects of mass flux ( G), inlet pressure ( P in) and buoyancy force on the heat transfer behaviors were discussed in detail. Results show that the light fluid with higher temperature appears near the inner wall of the helically coiled tube. When the bulk temperature is less than or approach to the pseudocritical temperature ( T pc ), the combined effects of buoyancy force and centrifugal force make heavy fluid with lower temperature appear near the outer-right of the helically coiled tube. Beyond the T pc , the heavy fluid with lower temperature moves from the outer-right region to the outer region owing to the centrifugal force. The buoyancy force caused by density variation, which can be characterized by Gr/ Re 2 and Gr/ Re 2.7, enhances the heat transfer coefficient ( h) when the bulk temperature is less than or near the T pc , and the h experiences oscillation due to the buoyancy force. The oscillation is reduced progressively with the increase of G. Moreover, h reaches its peak value near the T pc . Higher G could improve the heat transfer performance in the whole temperature range. The peak value of h depends on P in. A new correlation was proposed for methane at supercritical pressure convective heat transfer in the helical tube, which shows a good agreement with the present simulated results.

Correlation between magnetocaloric and electrical properties based on phenomenological models in La0.47Pr0.2Pb0.33MnO3 perovskite

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mechi, Nesrine; Alzahrani, Bandar; Hcini, Sobhi; Bouazizi, Mohamed Lamjed; Dhahri, Abdessalem

2018-06-01

We have investigated the correlation between magnetocaloric and electrical properties of La0.47Pr0.2Pb0.33MnO3 perovskite prepared using the sol-gel method. Rietveld analysis of X-ray diffraction (XRD) pattern shows pure crystalline phase with rhombohedral ? structure. Magnetic entropy change, relative cooling power (RCP) and specific heat were predicted from M(T, μ0H) data at different magnetic fields with the help of the phenomenological model. The magnetic entropy change reaches a maximum value ? of about 3.96 J kg-1 K-1 for μ0H = 5 T corresponding to RCP of 183 J kg-1. These values are relatively higher, making our sample a promising candidate for the magnetic refrigeration. Electrical-resistivity measurements were well fitted with the phenomenological percolation model, which is based on the phase segregation of ferromagnetic-metallic clusters and paramagnetic-semiconductor regions. The temperature and magnetic field dependences of resistivity data, ρ(T, μ0H), allowed us to determine the magnetic entropy change ?. Results show that the as-obtained magnetic entropy change values are similar to those determined from the phenomenological model.

Mathematical evaluation of the influence of multiple factors on implant stability quotient values in clinical practice: a retrospective study

PubMed Central

Huang, Hairong; Wismeijer, Daniel; Shao, Xianhong; Wu, Gang

2016-01-01

Objectives The objective of this study is to mathematically evaluate the influence of multiple factors on implant stability quotient values in clinical practice. Patients and methods Resonance frequency analysis was performed at T1 (measured immediately at the time of implant placement) and at T2 (measured before dental restoration) in 177 patients (329 implants). Using a multivariate linear regression model, we analyzed the influence of the following eleven candidate factors: sex, age, maxillary/mandibular location, bone type, immediate/delayed implantation, bone grafting (presence or absence), insertion torque, I-/II-stage healing pattern, implant diameter, implant length, and T1–T2 time interval. Results The following factors were identified to significantly influence the implant stability quotient (ISQ) values at T1: insertion torque, bone grafting, I-/II-stage healing pattern, immediate/delayed implantation, maxillary/mandibular location, implant diameter, and sex. In contrast, the ISQ values at T2 were significantly influenced only by three factors: implant diameter, T1–T2 time interval, and insertion torque. Conclusion Among the eleven candidate factors, seven key factors were found to influence the T1-ISQ values, while only three key factors influenced the T2-ISQ values. Both T1 and T2-ISQ values were found to be influenced by implant diameter and insertion torque. T1 was influenced specifically by the sex of the patient, the location (maxillary or mandibular), the implantation mode (immediate/delayed implantation), the healing stage, and the absence or presence of bone graft materials. PMID:27785040

[Influence of educational status, burn area and coping behaviors on the complication of psychological disorders in severely burned patients].

PubMed

Cheng, Hua; Li, Xiao-jian; Cao, Wen-juan; Chen, Li-ying; Zhang, Zhi; Liu, Zhi-he; Yi, Xian-feng; Lai, Wen

2013-04-01

To discuss how the educational status, burn area and coping behaviors influence the psychological disorders in severely burned patients. Sixty-four severely burned patients hospitalized in Guangzhou Red Cross Hospital, Guangdong Provincial Work Injury Rehabilitation Center, and Guangdong General Hospital were enrolled with cluster random sampling method. Data of their demography and situation of burns were collected. Then their coping behavior, psychological disorders including anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) plus its core symptoms of flashback, avoidance, and hypervigilance were assessed by medical coping modes questionnaire, self-rating anxiety scale (SAS), self-rating depression scale (SDS), PTSD checklist-civilian version (PCL-C) respectively. Correlation was analyzed between demography, burn area, coping behavior and psychological disorders. The predictive powers of educational status, burn area and coping behaviors on the psychological disorders were analyzed. The qualitative variables were assigned values. Data were processed with t test, Spearman rank correlation analysis, and multiple linear regression analysis. (1) The patients scored (19.0 ± 3.4) points in confrontation coping behavior, which showed no statistically significant difference from the domestic norm score (19.5 ± 3.8) points (t = -1.13, P > 0.05). The patients scored (16.6 ± 2.4) and (11.0 ± 2.2) points in avoidance and resignation coping behaviors, which were significantly higher than the domestic norm score (14.4 ± 3.0), (8.8 ± 3.2) points (with t values respectively 7.06 and 7.76, P values both below 0.01). The patients' standard score of SAS, SDS, PCL-C were (50 ± 11), (54 ± 11), and (38 ± 12) points. Respectively 89.1% (57/64), 60.9% (39/64), 46.9% (30/64) of the patients showed anxiety, depression, and PTSD symptoms. (2) Four independent variables: age, gender, marital status, and time after burns, were correlated with the psychological disorders, but the correlativity was not statistically significant (with rs values from -0.089 to 0.245, P values all above 0.05). Educational status was significantly negatively correlated with anxiety, depression, PTSD and its core symptoms of flashback, avoidance (with rs values from -0.361 to -0.253, P values all below 0.05). Educational status was negatively correlated with hypervigilance, but the correlativity was not statistically significant (rs = -0.187, P > 0.05). Burn area was significantly positively correlated with the psychological disorders (with rs values from 0.306 to 0.478, P values all below 0.05). Confrontation coping behavior was positively correlated with the psychological disorders, but the correlativity was not statistically significant (with rs values from 0.121 to 0.550, P values all above 0.05). Avoidance coping behavior was correlated with the psychological disorders, but the correlativity was not statistically significant (with rs values from -0.144 to 0.193, P values all above 0.05). Resignation coping behavior was significantly positively correlated with the psychological disorder (with rs values from 0.377 to 0.596, P values all below 0.01). (3) Educational status had predictive power on the anxiety, PTSD and flash back symptoms of patients (with t values from -2.19 to -2.02, P values all below 0.05), but not on depression, avoidance and hypervigilance (with t values from -1.95 to -0.99, P values all above 0.05). Burn area had no predictive power on the psychological disorders (with t values from 0.55 to 1.78, P values all above 0.05). Resignation coping behavior had predictive power on the psychological disorders (with t values from 3.10 to 6.46, P values below 0.01). Confrontation and avoidance coping behaviors had no predictive power on the psychological disorders (with t values from 0.46 to 2.32 and -0.89 and 1.75 respectively, P values all above 0.05). The severely burned patients with lower educational status, larger burn area, and the more frequently adapted resignation coping behavior are more likely to suffer from anxiety, depression, and PTSD.

Association between postoperative troponin levels and 30-day mortality among patients undergoing noncardiac surgery.

PubMed

Devereaux, P J; Chan, Matthew T V; Alonso-Coello, Pablo; Walsh, Michael; Berwanger, Otavio; Villar, Juan Carlos; Wang, C Y; Garutti, R Ignacio; Jacka, Michael J; Sigamani, Alben; Srinathan, Sadeesh; Biccard, Bruce M; Chow, Clara K; Abraham, Valsa; Tiboni, Maria; Pettit, Shirley; Szczeklik, Wojciech; Lurati Buse, Giovanna; Botto, Fernando; Guyatt, Gordon; Heels-Ansdell, Diane; Sessler, Daniel I; Thorlund, Kristian; Garg, Amit X; Mrkobrada, Marko; Thomas, Sabu; Rodseth, Reitze N; Pearse, Rupert M; Thabane, Lehana; McQueen, Matthew J; VanHelder, Tomas; Bhandari, Mohit; Bosch, Jackie; Kurz, Andrea; Polanczyk, Carisi; Malaga, German; Nagele, Peter; Le Manach, Yannick; Leuwer, Martin; Yusuf, Salim

2012-06-06

Of the 200 million adults worldwide who undergo noncardiac surgery each year, more than 1 million will die within 30 days. To determine the relationship between the peak fourth-generation troponin T (TnT) measurement in the first 3 days after noncardiac surgery and 30-day mortality. A prospective, international cohort study that enrolled patients from August 6, 2007, to January 11, 2011. Eligible patients were aged 45 years and older and required at least an overnight hospital admission after having noncardiac surgery. Patients' TnT levels were measured 6 to 12 hours after surgery and on days 1, 2, and 3 after surgery. We undertook Cox regression analysis in which the dependent variable was mortality until 30 days after surgery, and the independent variables included 24 preoperative variables. We repeated this analysis, adding the peak TnT measurement during the first 3 postoperative days as an independent variable and used a minimum P value approach to determine if there were TnT thresholds that independently altered patients' risk of death. A total of 15,133 patients were included in this study. The 30-day mortality rate was 1.9% (95% CI, 1.7%-2.1%). Multivariable analysis demonstrated that peak TnT values of at least 0.02 ng/mL, occurring in 11.6% of patients, were associated with higher 30-day mortality compared with the reference group (peak TnT ≤ 0.01 ng/mL): peak TnT of 0.02 ng/mL (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 2.41; 95% CI, 1.33-3.77); 0.03 to 0.29 ng/mL (aHR, 5.00; 95% CI, 3.72-6.76); and 0.30 ng/mL or greater (aHR, 10.48; 95% CI, 6.25-16.62). Patients with a peak TnT value of 0.01 ng/mL or less, 0.02, 0.03-0.29, and 0.30 or greater had 30-day mortality rates of 1.0%, 4.0%, 9.3%, and 16.9%, respectively. Peak TnT measurement added incremental prognostic value to discriminate those likely to die within 30 days for the model with peak TnT measurement vs without (C index = 0.85 vs 0.81; difference, 0.4; 95% CI, 0.2-0.5; P < .001 for difference between C index values). The net reclassification improvement with TnT was 25.0% (P < .001). Among patients undergoing noncardiac surgery, the peak postoperative TnT measurement during the first 3 days after surgery was significantly associated with 30-day mortality.

Spring geochemistry in an active volcanic environment (São Miguel, Azores): source and fluxes of inorganic solutes.

PubMed

Freire, P; Andrade, C; Coutinho, R; Cruz, J V

2014-01-01

Mineral waters were monthly sampled in selected springs from Furnas and Fogo trachytic central volcanoes (São Miguel, Azores, Portugal). Water temperatures between 15.1 °C and 90.2 °C, characterize poorly mineralized waters of Na-HCO₃ and Na-HCO₃-Cl types. According to the spring location, two watersheds were selected in each volcano to evaluate solute fluxes and chemical weathering rates (Fogo volcano: Ribeira Grande river - RRG; Furnas volcano: Ribeira Quente river - RRQ). Na, Mg, K and Ca fluxes in groundwater represented 43%, 60%, 46% and 57% of the total (subsurface plus surface fluxes) in RRG, and respectively 43%, 53%, 46% and 49% in RRQ. Average HCO₃ flux is ten times higher in RRQ (130.1 × 10(6) mol/yr) compared to RRG (13.8 × 10(6) mol/yr), reflecting the volcano degassing and the lower ratio between groundwater and river water fluxes. Based on these values, total CO₂-consumption by weathering ranged from 1.5 × 10(6)mol/km(2)/yr (RRG) to 4 × 10(6)mol/km(2)/yr (RRQ). TDS load varied between 3772 t/yr (RRG) and 15388 t/yr (RRQ), and the ratio between values in groundwater and in surface water is respectively equal to 0.72 and 2.04. The associated chemical weathering rates in groundwater were 206 t/km(2)/yr (RRG) and 399 t/km(2)/yr (RRQ). Coupled to river water, these values indicate that total chemical weathering rates are respectively equal to 493 t/km(2)/yr and 594 t/km(2)/yr. A similar approach developed for the entire archipelago showed that the chemical weathering rates due to groundwater are in the range from 33 to 321 t/km(2)/yr, being partially controlled by the age of the islands. Results of the present study point out to the need to consider groundwater solute fluxes due to weathering when establishing geochemical budgets. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Comparison of fracture strength and failure mode of different ceramic implant abutments.

PubMed

Elsayed, Adham; Wille, Sebastian; Al-Akhali, Majed; Kern, Matthias

2017-04-01

The whitish color of zirconia (ZrO 2 ) abutments offers favorable esthetics compared with the grayish color of titanium (Ti) abutments. Nonetheless, ZrO 2 has greater opacity, making it difficult to achieve natural tooth color. Therefore, lithium disilicate (LaT) abutments have been suggested to replace metal abutments. The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate the fracture strength and failure mode of single-tooth implant restorations using ZrO 2 and LaT abutments, and to compare them with titanium (Ti) abutments. Five different types of abutments, Ti; ZrO 2 with no metal base; ZrO 2 with a metal base (ZrT); LaT; and LaT combination abutment and crown (LcT) were assembled on 40 Ti implants and restored with LaT crowns. Specimens were subjected to quasistatic loading using a universal testing machine, until the implant-abutment connection failed. As bending of the metal would be considered a clinical failure, the values of force (N) at which the plastic deformation of the metal occurred were calculated, and the rate of deformation was analyzed. Statistical analysis was done using the Mann-Whitney U test (α=.05). Group ZrO 2 revealed the lowest resistance to failure with a mean of 202 ±33 N. Groups ZrT, LaT, and LaC withstood higher forces without fracture or debonding of the ceramic suprastructure, and failure was due to deformation of metal bases, with no statistically significant differences between these groups regarding the bending behavior. Within the limitations of this in vitro study, it was concluded that LaT abutments have the potential to withstand the physiological occlusal forces that occur in the anterior region and that ZrO 2 abutments combined with Ti inserts have much higher fracture strength than pure ZrO 2 abutments. Copyright © 2016 Editorial Council for the Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Usefulness of the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio to prediction of type 2 diabetes mellitus in morbid obesity.

PubMed

Yilmaz, H; Ucan, B; Sayki, M; Unsal, I; Sahin, M; Ozbek, M; Delibasi, T

2015-01-01

There is growing consensus in the literature that inflammation plays a central role in the pathophysiology of obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and cardiovascular complications. Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) provides a simple method for assessment of inflammatory status and it is a new, inexpensive marker. The aim of the present study was to investigate the predictive value of preprocedural (before the OGTT) NLR on development of type 2 diabetes (T2DM) in morbid obesity patients (MOP). 306 MOP (body mass index ≥ 40 kg/m(2)) and 95 normal weight patients with normal OGTT [fasting plasma glucose (FPG)<100mg/dL. Two-hour glucose during OGTT<140 mg/dL] were evaluated in this study. The mean ± SD NLR of MOP was significantly higher than that of patients with normal weight healthy patients (3.67 ± 0.95 vs. 1.82 ± 1.02, P<0.001, respectively). In receiver operating characteristics curve analysis, NLR>3.12 had 79.2% sensitivity and 64.9% specificity in predicting T2DM. Logistic regression analysis showed that elevated NLR (OR: 2.577, 95% CI: 1.363-4.872, P=0.004) was an independent variable for predicting T2DM in MOP. MOP have higher NLR than healthy controls. High NLR is a powerful and independent predictor of T2DM in MOP. Elevated NLR levels are usually considered as an inflammatory marker. The results of this study suggested that inflammation plays a role in the pathogenesis of T2DM with MOP. Copyright © 2014 Diabetes India. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Effect of sardine proteins on hyperglycaemia, hyperlipidaemia and lecithin:cholesterol acyltransferase activity, in high-fat diet-induced type 2 diabetic rats.

PubMed

Benaicheta, Nora; Labbaci, Fatima Z; Bouchenak, Malika; Boukortt, Farida O

2016-01-14

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a major risk factor of CVD. The effects of purified sardine proteins (SP) were examined on glycaemia, insulin sensitivity and reverse cholesterol transport in T2D rats. Rats fed a high-fat diet (HFD) for 5 weeks, and injected with a low dose of streptozotocin, were used. The diabetic rats were divided into four groups, and they were fed casein (CAS) or SP combined with 30 or 5% lipids, for 4 weeks. HFD-induced hyperglycaemia, insulin resistance and hyperlipidaemia in rats fed HFD, regardless of the consumed protein. In contrast, these parameters lowered in rats fed SP combined with 5 or 30% lipids, and serum insulin values reduced in SP v. CAS. HFD significantly increased total cholesterol and TAG concentrations in the liver and serum, whereas these parameters decreased with SP, regardless of lipid intake. Faecal cholesterol excretion was higher with SP v. CAS, combined with 30 or 5% lipids. Lecithin:cholesterol acyltransferase (LCAT) activity and HDL3-phospholipids (PL) were higher in CAS-HF than in CAS, whereas HDL2-cholesteryl esters (CE) were lower. Otherwise, LCAT activity and HDL2-CE were higher in the SP group than in the CAS group, whereas HDL3-PL and HDL3-unesterified cholesterol were lower. Moreover, LCAT activity lowered in the SP-HF group than in the CAS-HF group, when HDL2-CE was higher. In conclusion, these results indicate the potential effects of SP to improve glycaemia, insulin sensitivity and reverse cholesterol transport, in T2D rats.

Radiotherapy boost dose-escalation for invasive breast cancer after breast-conserving surgery: 2093 patients treated with a prospective margin-directed policy.

PubMed

Livi, Lorenzo; Meattini, Icro; Franceschini, Davide; Saieva, Calogero; Meacci, Fiammetta; Marrazzo, Livia; Gerlain, Elena; Desideri, Isacco; Scotti, Vieri; Nori, Jacopo; Sanchez, Luis Jose; Orzalesi, Lorenzo; Bonomo, Pierluigi; Greto, Daniela; Bianchi, Simonetta; Biti, Giampaolo

2013-08-01

To investigate the outcome of invasive early breast cancer patients that underwent breast-conserving surgery and adjuvant radiotherapy (RT), treated with a prospective margin-directed institutional policy for RT boost dose, based on final margins status (FMS). A total of 2093 patients were treated between 2000 and 2008. 10 Gy boost was prescribed in case of FMS>5mm; 16 Gy boost with FMS between 2 and 5mm; 20 Gy boost in case of FMS<2mm or positive. After a median follow up of 5.2 years, we recorded 41 local relapse (LR, 2%). Concerning LR free survival, age at diagnosis, nuclear grade, hormonal status, T-stage, adjuvant hormonal therapy and adjuvant chemotherapy emerged as significant parameters (p-values from log rank test <0.05). FMS, that directed the RT boost dose, did not have significant impact on LRFS (p=0.46). LR rates were 2.3% for FMS<2mm, 2.6% for 2-5mm FMS and 1.8% for FMS>5mm. At multivariate analysis, higher nuclear grade (p=0.045), triple negative subtype (p=0.036) and higher T-stage (p=0.02) resulted as the independent predictors of LR occurrence. Our experience showed that a margin-directed policy of RT boost dose-escalation seems to reduce the negative impact of FMS on LR, but it is not able to overcome the unfavorable effect of higher nuclear grade, higher T stage and triple negative subtype. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Influence of Fluidized Bed Quenching on the Mechanical Properties and Quality Index of T6 Tempered B319.2-Type Aluminum Alloys

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ragab, Kh. A.; Samuel, A. M.; Al-Ahmari, A. M. A.; Samuel, F. H.; Doty, H. W.

2013-11-01

The current study aimed to investigate the effect of fluidized sand bed (FB) quenching on the mechanical performance of B319.2 aluminum cast alloys. Traditional water and conventional hot air (CF) quenching media were used to establish a relevant comparison with FB quenching. Quality charts were generated using two models of quality indices to support the selection of material conditions on the basis of the proposed quality indices. The use of an FB for the direct quenching-aging treatment of B319.2 casting alloys yields greater UTS and YS values compared to conventional furnace quenched alloys. The strength values of T6 tempered B319 alloys are greater when quenched in water compared with those quenched in an FB or CF. For the same aging conditions (170°C/4h), the fluidized bed quenched-aged 319 alloys show nearly the same or better strength values than those quenched in water and then aged in a CF or an FB. Based on the quality charts developed for alloys subjected to different quenching media, higher quality index values are obtained by conventional furnace quenched-aged T6-tempered B319 alloys. The modification factor has the most significant effect on the quality results of the alloys investigated, for all heat treatment cycles, as compared to other metallurgical parameters. The results of alloys subjected to multi-temperature aging cycles reveal that the optimum strength properties of B319.2 alloys, however, is obtained by applying multi-temperature aging cycles such as, for example, 240 °C/2 h followed by 170 °C/8 h, rather than T6 aging treatments. The regression models indicate that the mean quality values of B319 alloys are highly quench sensitive due to the formation of a larger percent of clusters in Al-Si-Cu-Mg alloys. These clusters act as heterogeneous nucleation sites for precipitation and enhance the aging process.

Seasonal Body Composition Variation Amongst Elite European Professional Soccer Players: An Approach of Talent Identification

PubMed Central

Owen, Adam Lee; Lago-Peñas, Carlos; Dunlop, Gordon; Mehdi, Rouissi; Chtara, Moktar; Dellal, Alexandre

2018-01-01

Abstract The primary aim of the investigation was to study the seasonal changes in body composition in elite European soccer players and identify key playing positional differences. Twenty-two players (age = 24 ± 3.7 years, body height = 180.45 ± 5.12 cm, body mass = 76.66 ± 5.34 kg) were tested. Players’ mass (kg), lean body mass (LBM), fat free mass (FFM), fat mass (FM), muscle girths (MG) and sum of 8 skinfolds (mm) were measured across 5 time points (T0 = Start of pre-season training; T1 = End of pre-season training; T2 = Mid-season; T3 = End of mid-season break; T4 = End of season). Players were divided into their tactical positional roles for analysis. The specific positions they were divided into included defenders (n = 8), midfielders (n = 8) and forwards (n = 6). Assessment of training and matchplay exposure were also recorded. Sites-4, Sites-7, Sites-8 and Fat Mass decreased dramatically from T0 to T1 and T2 in all playing positions (p < 0.01), while no remarkable differences were found between T2, T3 and T4. Except for defenders, calf girth and lean mass were higher in T2, T3 and T4 compared to T0 and T1 (p < 0.01). Midfielders were found to be leaner than forwards and defenders in all data collection time point sessions. Defenders showed higher values in calf girth and lean body mass than midfielders and forwards. It can be concluded from this investigation that there are large variances n positional body composition profiles amongst professional European soccer players. Furthermore, significant changes are prevalent and occur across the season from LBM, FFM, MG and skinfold assessment amongst European elite level soccer players. PMID:29922389

Implications of δCP = -90∘ towards determining hierarchy and octant at T2K and T2K-II

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ghosh, Monojit; Goswami, Srubabati; Raut, Sushant K.

2017-02-01

The T2K experiment has provided the first hint for the best-fit value for the leptonic CP phase δCP ˜- 90∘ from neutrino data. This is now corroborated by the NOνA neutrino runs. We study the implications for neutrino mass hierarchy and octant of 𝜃23 in the context of this data assuming that the true value of δCP in nature is - 90∘. Based on simple arguments on degeneracies in the probabilities, we show that a clear signal of δCP = -90∘ coming from T2K neutrino (antineutrino) data is only possible if the true hierarchy is normal and the true octant is higher (lower). Thus, if the T2K neutrino and antineutrino data are fitted separately and both give the true value of δCP = -90∘, this will imply that nature has chosen the true hierarchy to be normal and 𝜃23 ≈ 45∘. However, we find that the combined fit of neutrino and antineutrino data will still point to true hierarchy as normal but the octant of 𝜃23 will remain undetermined. We do our analysis for both, the current projected exposure (7.8 × 1021 pot) and planned extended exposure (20 × 1021 pot). We also present the CP discovery potential of T2K emphasizing on the role of antineutrinos. We find that one of the main contributions of the antineutrino data is to remove the degenerate solutions with the wrong octant. Thus, the antineutrino run plays a more significant role for those hierarchy-octant combinations for which this degeneracy is present. If this degeneracy is absent, then only neutrino run gives a better result for fixed 𝜃13. However, if we marginalize over 𝜃13 then, sensitivity corresponding to mixed run can be better than pure neutrino run.

Calorimetric and spectroscopic studies of aminoglycoside binding to AT-rich DNA triple helices

PubMed Central

Xi, Hongjuan; Kumar, Sunil; Dosen-Micovic, Ljiljana; Arya, Dev P.

2013-01-01

Calorimetric and fluorescence techniques were used to characterize the binding of aminoglycosides-neomycin, paromomycin, and ribostamycin, with 5′-dA12-x-dT12-x-dT12-3′ intramolecular DNA triplex (x = hexaethylene glycol) and poly(dA).2poly(dT) triplex. Our results demonstrate the following features: (1) UV thermal analysis reveals that the Tm for triplex decreases with increasing pH value in the presence of neomycin, while the Tm for the duplex remains unchanged. (2) The binding affinity of neomycin decreases with increased pH, although there is an increase in observed binding enthalpy. (3) ITC studies conducted in two buffers (sodium cacodylate and MOPS) yield the number of protonated drug amino groups (Δn) as 0.29 and 0.40 for neomycin and paromomycin interaction with 5′-dA12-x-dT12-x-dT12-3′, respectively. (4) The specific heat capacity change (ΔCp) determined by ITC studies is negative, with more negative values at lower salt concentrations. From 100 mM to 250 mM KCl, the ΔCp ranges from −402 to −60 cal/(mol K) for neomycin. At pH 5.5, a more positive ΔCp is observed, with a value of −98 cal/(mol K) at 100 mM KCl. ΔCp is not significantly affected by ionic strength. (5) Salt dependence studies reveal that there are at least three amino groups of neomycin participating in the electrostatic interactions with the triplex. (6) FID studies using thiazole orange were used to derive the AC50 (aminoglycoside concentration needed to displace 50% of the dye from the triplex) values. Neomycin shows a seven fold higher affinity than paromomycin and eleven fold higher affinity than ribostamycin at pH 6.8. (7) Modeling studies, consistent with UV and ITC results, show the importance of an additional positive charge in triplex recognition by neomycin. The modeling and thermodynamic studies indicate that neomycin binding to the DNA triplex depends upon significant contributions from charge as well as shape complementarity of the drug to the DNA triplex Watson–Hoogsteen groove. PMID:20167243

Quantitative T2(*) assessment of knee joint cartilage after running a marathon.

PubMed

Hesper, Tobias; Miese, Falk R; Hosalkar, Harish S; Behringer, Michael; Zilkens, Christoph; Antoch, Gerald; Krauspe, Rüdiger; Bittersohl, Bernd

2015-02-01

To study the effect of repetitive joint loading on the T2(*) assessment of knee joint cartilage. T2(*) mapping was performed in 10 non-professional marathon runners (mean age: 28.7±3.97 years) with no morphologically evident cartilage damage within 48h prior to and following the marathon and after a period of approximately four weeks. Bulk and zonal T2(*) values at the medial and lateral tibiofemoral compartment and the patellofemoral compartment were assessed by means of region of interest analysis. Pre- and post-marathon values were compared. There was a small increase in the T2(*) after running the marathon (30.47±5.16ms versus 29.84±4.97ms, P<0.05) while the T2(*) values before the marathon and those after the period of convalescence were similar (29.84±4.97ms versus 29.81±5.17ms, P=0.855). Regional analyses revealed lower T2(*) values in the medial tibial plateau (P<0.001). It appears that repetitive joint loading has a transient influence on the T2(*) values. However, this effect is small and probably not clinically relevant. The low T2(*) values in the medial tibial plateau may be related to functional demand or early cartilage degeneration. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Determination of the Rate Coefficients of the SO2 plus O plus M yields SO3 plus M Reaction

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hwang, S. M.; Cooke, J. A.; De Witt, K. J.; Rabinowitz, M. J.

2010-01-01

Rate coefficients of the title reaction R(sub 31) (SO2 +O+M yields SO3 +M) and R(sub 56) (SO2 + HO2 yields SO3 +OH), important in the conversion of S(IV) to S(VI),were obtained at T =970-1150 K and rho (sub ave) = 16.2 micro mol/cubic cm behind reflected shock waves by a perturbation method. Shock-heated H2/ O2/Ar mixtures were perturbed by adding small amounts of SO2 (1%, 2%, and 3%) and the OH temporal profiles were then measured using laser absorption spectroscopy. Reaction rate coefficients were elucidated by matching the characteristic reaction times acquired from the individual experimental absorption profiles via simultaneous optimization of k(sub 31) and k(sub 56) values in the reaction modeling (for satisfactory matches to the observed characteristic times, it was necessary to take into account R(sub 56)). In the experimental conditions of this study, R(sub 31) is in the low-pressure limit. The rate coefficient expressions fitted using the combined data of this study and the previous experimental results are k(sub 31,0)/[Ar] = 2.9 10(exp 35) T(exp ?6.0) exp(?4780 K/T ) + 6.1 10(exp 24) T(exp ?3.0) exp(?1980 K/T ) cm(sup 6) mol(exp ?2)/ s at T = 300-2500 K; k(sub 56) = 1.36 10(exp 11) exp(?3420 K/T ) cm(exp 3)/mol/s at T = 970-1150 K. Computer simulations of typical aircraft engine environments, using the reaction mechanism with the above k(sub 31,0) and k(sub 56) expressions, gave the maximum S(IV) to S(VI) conversion yield of ca. 3.5% and 2.5% for the constant density and constant pressure flow condition, respectively. Moreover, maximum conversions occur at rather higher temperatures (?1200 K) than that where the maximum k(sub 31,0) value is located (approximately 800 K). This is because the conversion yield is dependent upon not only the k(sup 31,0) and k(sup 56) values (production flux) but also the availability of H, O, and HO2 in the system (consumption flux).

Net carbon flux in organic and conventional olive production systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saeid Mohamad, Ramez; Verrastro, Vincenzo; Bitar, Lina Al; Roma, Rocco; Moretti, Michele; Chami, Ziad Al

2014-05-01

Agricultural systems are considered as one of the most relevant sources of atmospheric carbon. However, agriculture has the potentiality to mitigate carbon dioxide mainly through soil carbon sequestration. Some agricultural practices, particularly fertilization and soil management, can play a dual role in the agricultural systems regarding the carbon cycle contributing to the emissions and to the sequestration process in the soil. Good soil and input managements affect positively Soil Organic Carbon (SOC) changes and consequently the carbon cycle. The present study aimed at comparing the carbon footprint of organic and conventional olive systems and to link it to the efficiency of both systems on carbon sequestration by calculating the net carbon flux. Data were collected at farm level through a specific and detailed questionnaire based on one hectare as a functional unit and a system boundary limited to olive production. Using LCA databases particularly ecoinvent one, IPCC GWP 100a impact assessment method was used to calculate carbon emissions from agricultural practices of both systems. Soil organic carbon has been measured, at 0-30 cm depth, based on soil analyses done at the IAMB laboratory and based on reference value of SOC, the annual change of SOC has been calculated. Substracting sequestrated carbon in the soil from the emitted on resulted in net carbon flux calculation. Results showed higher environmental impact of the organic system on Global Warming Potential (1.07 t CO2 eq. yr-1) comparing to 0.76 t CO2 eq. yr-1 in the conventional system due to the higher GHG emissions caused by manure fertilizers compared to the use of synthetic foliar fertilizers in the conventional system. However, manure was the main reason behind the higher SOC content and sequestration in the organic system. As a resultant, the organic system showed higher net carbon flux (-1.7 t C ha-1 yr-1 than -0.52 t C ha-1 yr-1 in the conventional system reflecting higher efficiency as a sink for atmospheric CO2 (the negative value of Net C flux indicates that a system is a net sink for atmospheric CO2). In conclusion, this study illustrates the importance of including soil carbon sequestration associated with CO2 emissions in the evaluation process between alternatives of agricultural systems. Thus, organic olive system offers an opportunity to increase carbon sequestration compared to the conventional one although it causes higher C emissions from manure fertilization. Keywords: Net carbon flux, GHG, organic, olive, soil organic carbon

ADvanced IMage Algebra (ADIMA): a novel method for depicting multiple sclerosis lesion heterogeneity, as demonstrated by quantitative MRI.

PubMed

Yiannakas, Marios C; Tozer, Daniel J; Schmierer, Klaus; Chard, Declan T; Anderson, Valerie M; Altmann, Daniel R; Miller, David H; Wheeler-Kingshott, Claudia A M

2013-05-01

There are modest correlations between multiple sclerosis (MS) disability and white matter lesion (WML) volumes, as measured by T2-weighted (T2w) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans (T2-WML). This may partly reflect pathological heterogeneity in WMLs, which is not apparent on T2w scans. To determine if ADvanced IMage Algebra (ADIMA), a novel MRI post-processing method, can reveal WML heterogeneity from proton-density weighted (PDw) and T2w images. We obtained conventional PDw and T2w images from 10 patients with relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) and ADIMA images were calculated from these. We classified all WML into bright (ADIMA-b) and dark (ADIMA-d) sub-regions, which were segmented. We obtained conventional T2-WML and T1-WML volumes for comparison, as well as the following quantitative magnetic resonance parameters: magnetisation transfer ratio (MTR), T1 and T2. Also, we assessed the reproducibility of the segmentation for ADIMA-b, ADIMA-d and T2-WML. Our study's ADIMA-derived volumes correlated with conventional lesion volumes (p < 0.05). ADIMA-b exhibited higher T1 and T2, and lower MTR than the T2-WML (p < 0.001). Despite the similarity in T1 values between ADIMA-b and T1-WML, these regions were only partly overlapping with each other. ADIMA-d exhibited quantitative characteristics similar to T2-WML; however, they were only partly overlapping. Mean intra- and inter-observer coefficients of variation for ADIMA-b, ADIMA-d and T2-WML volumes were all < 6 % and < 10 %, respectively. ADIMA enabled the simple classification of WML into two groups having different quantitative magnetic resonance properties, which can be reproducibly distinguished.

ADvanced IMage Algebra (ADIMA): a novel method for depicting multiple sclerosis lesion heterogeneity, as demonstrated by quantitative MRI

PubMed Central

Tozer, Daniel J; Schmierer, Klaus; Chard, Declan T; Anderson, Valerie M; Altmann, Daniel R; Miller, David H; Wheeler-Kingshott, Claudia AM

2013-01-01

Background: There are modest correlations between multiple sclerosis (MS) disability and white matter lesion (WML) volumes, as measured by T2-weighted (T2w) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans (T2-WML). This may partly reflect pathological heterogeneity in WMLs, which is not apparent on T2w scans. Objective: To determine if ADvanced IMage Algebra (ADIMA), a novel MRI post-processing method, can reveal WML heterogeneity from proton-density weighted (PDw) and T2w images. Methods: We obtained conventional PDw and T2w images from 10 patients with relapsing–remitting MS (RRMS) and ADIMA images were calculated from these. We classified all WML into bright (ADIMA-b) and dark (ADIMA-d) sub-regions, which were segmented. We obtained conventional T2-WML and T1-WML volumes for comparison, as well as the following quantitative magnetic resonance parameters: magnetisation transfer ratio (MTR), T1 and T2. Also, we assessed the reproducibility of the segmentation for ADIMA-b, ADIMA-d and T2-WML. Results: Our study’s ADIMA-derived volumes correlated with conventional lesion volumes (p < 0.05). ADIMA-b exhibited higher T1 and T2, and lower MTR than the T2-WML (p < 0.001). Despite the similarity in T1 values between ADIMA-b and T1-WML, these regions were only partly overlapping with each other. ADIMA-d exhibited quantitative characteristics similar to T2-WML; however, they were only partly overlapping. Mean intra- and inter-observer coefficients of variation for ADIMA-b, ADIMA-d and T2-WML volumes were all < 6 % and < 10 %, respectively. Conclusion: ADIMA enabled the simple classification of WML into two groups having different quantitative magnetic resonance properties, which can be reproducibly distinguished. PMID:23037551

Influence of humidity, temperature, and radicals on the formation and thermal properties of secondary organic aerosol (SOA) from ozonolysis of β-pinene.

PubMed

Emanuelsson, Eva U; Watne, Ågot K; Lutz, Anna; Ljungström, Evert; Hallquist, Mattias

2013-10-10

The influence of water and radicals on SOAs produced by β-pinene ozonolysis was investigated at 298 and 288 K using a laminar flow reactor. A volatility tandem differential mobility analyzer (VTDMA) was used to measure the evaporation of the SOA, enabling the parametrization of its volatility properties. The parameters extracted included the temperature at which 50% of the aerosol had evaporated (T(VFR0.5)) and the slope factor (S(VFR)). An increase in S(VFR) indicates a broader distribution of vapor pressures for the aerosol constituents. Reducing the reaction temperature increased S(VFR) and decreased T(VFR0.5) under humid conditions but had less effect on T(VFR0.5) under dry conditions. In general, higher water concentrations gave lower T(VFR0.5) values, more negative S(VFR) values, and a reduction in total SOA production. The radical conditions were changed by introducing OH scavengers to generate systems with and without OH radicals and with different [HO2]/[RO2] ratios. The presence of a scavenger and lower [HO2]/[RO2] ratio reduced SOA production. Observed changes in S(VFR) values could be linked to the more complex chemistry that occurs in the absence of a scavenger and indicated that additional HO2 chemistry gives products with a wider range of vapor pressures. Updates to existing ozonolysis mechanisms with routes that describe the observed responses to water and radical conditions for monoterpenes with endocyclic and exocyclic double bonds are discussed.

Combined determination of highly sensitive troponin T and copeptin for early exclusion of acute myocardial infarction: first experience in an emergency department of a general hospital.

PubMed

Lotze, Ulrich; Lemm, Holger; Heyer, Anke; Müller, Karin

2011-01-01

The purpose of this observational study was to test the diagnostic performance of the Elecsys® troponin T high-sensitive system combined with copeptin measurement for early exclusion of acute myocardial infarction (MI) in clinical practice. Troponin T high-sensitive (diagnostic cutoff: <14 pg/mL) and copeptin (diagnostic cutoff: <14 pmol/L) levels were determined at admission in addition to other routine laboratory parameters in patients with suspected acute MI presenting to the emergency department of a general hospital over a period of five months. Data from 142 consecutive patients (mean age 71.2 ± 13.5 years, 76 men) were analyzed. Final diagnoses were acute MI in 13 patients (nine ST elevation MI, four non-ST elevation MI, 9.2%) unstable angina pectoris in three (2.1%), cardiac symptoms not primarily associated with myocardial ischemia in 79 (55.6%), and noncardiac disease in 47 patients (33.1%). The patients with acute MI were younger and had higher troponin T high-sensitive and copeptin values than patients without acute MI. Seventeen patients had very high copeptin values (>150 pmol/L), one of whom had a level of >700 pmol/L and died of pulmonary embolism. A troponin T high-sensitive level of <14 pg/mL in combination with copeptin <14 pmol/L at initial presentation ruled out acute MI in 45 of the 142 patients (31.7%), each with a sensitivity and negative predictive value of 100%. According to this early experience, a single determination of troponin T high-sensitive and copeptin may enable early and accurate exclusion of acute MI in one third of patients, even in an emergency department of a general hospital.

Tolerance to chitosan by Trichoderma species is associated with low membrane fluidity.

PubMed

Zavala-González, Ernesto A; Lopez-Moya, Federico; Aranda-Martinez, Almudena; Cruz-Valerio, Mayra; Lopez-Llorca, Luis Vicente; Ramírez-Lepe, Mario

2016-07-01

The effect of chitosan on growth of Trichoderma spp., a cosmopolitan genus widely exploited for their biocontrol properties was evaluated. Based on genotypic (ITS of 18S rDNA) characters, four isolates of Trichoderma were identified as T. pseudokoningii FLM16, T. citrinoviride FLM17, T. harzianum EZG47, and T. koningiopsis VSL185. Chitosan reduces radial growth of Trichoderma isolates in concentration-wise manner. T. koningiopsis VSL185 was the most chitosan tolerant isolate in all culture media amended with chitosan (0.5-2.0 mg ml(-1) ). Minimal Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) and Minimal Fungicidal Concentration (MFC) were determined showing that T. koningiopsis VSL185 displays higher chitosan tolerance with MIC value >2000 μg ml(-1) while for other Trichoderma isolates MIC values were around 10 μg ml(-1) . Finally, free fatty acid composition reveals that T. koningiopsis VSL185, chitosan tolerant isolate, displays lower linolenic acid (C18:3) content than chitosan sensitive Trichoderma isolates. Our findings suggest that low membrane fluidity is associated with chitosan tolerance in Trichoderma spp. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

The development and utility of a novel scale that quantifies the glycemic progression toward type 1 diabetes over 6 months.

PubMed

Sosenko, Jay M; Skyler, Jay S; Beam, Craig A; Boulware, David; Mahon, Jeffrey L; Krischer, Jeffrey P; Greenbaum, Carla J; Rafkin, Lisa E; Matheson, Della; Herold, Kevan C; Palmer, Jerry P

2015-05-01

We developed a scale to serve as a potential end point for 6-month glycemic progression (PS6M) toward type 1 diabetes (T1D) in autoantibody-positive relatives of individuals with T1D. The PS6M was developed from Diabetes Prevention Trial-Type 1 (DPT-1) data and tested in the TrialNet Pathway to Prevention Study (PTP). It is the difference between 6-month glucose sum values (30-120 min oral glucose tolerance test values) and values predicted for nonprogressors. The PS6M predicted T1D in the PTP (P < 0.001). The area under the receiver operating chacteristic curve was greater (P < 0.001) for the PS6M than for the baseline-to-6-month difference. PS6M values were higher in those with two or more autoantibodies, 30-0 min C-peptide values <2.00 ng/mL, or DPT-1 Risk Scores >7.00 (P < 0.001 for all). The PS6M is an indicator of short-term glycemic progression to T1D that could be a useful tool for assessing preventive treatments and biomarkers. © 2015 by the American Diabetes Association. Readers may use this article as long as the work is properly cited, the use is educational and not for profit, and the work is not altered.

Mini-Fragment Fixation Is Equivalent to Bicortical Screw Fixation for Horizontal Medial Malleolus Fractures.

PubMed

Wegner, Adam M; Wolinsky, Philip R; Robbins, Michael A; Garcia, Tanya C; Amanatullah, Derek F

2018-05-01

Horizontal fractures of the medial malleolus occur through application of valgus or abduction force through the ankle that creates a tension failure of the medial malleolus. The authors hypothesize that mini-fragment T-plates may offer improved fixation, but the optimal fixation construct for these fractures remains unclear. Forty synthetic distal tibiae with identical osteotomies were randomized into 4 fixation constructs: (1) two parallel unicortical cancellous screws; (2) two parallel bicortical cortical screws; (3) a contoured mini-fragment T-plate with 2 unicortical screws in the fragment and 2 bicortical screws in the shaft; and (4) a contoured mini-fragment T-plate with 2 bicortical screws in the fragment and 2 unicortical screws in the shaft. Specimens were subjected to offset axial tension loading on a servohydraulic testing system and tracked using high-resolution video. Failure was defined as 2 mm of articular displacement. Analysis of variance followed by a Tukey-Kramer post hoc test was used to assess for differences between groups, with significance defined as P<.05. The mean stiffness (±SD) values of both mini-fragment T-plate constructs (239±83 N/mm and 190±37 N/mm) and the bicortical screw construct (240±17 N/mm) were not statistically different. The mean stiffness values of both mini-fragment T-plate constructs and the bicortical screw construct were higher than that of a parallel unicortical screw construct (102±20 N/mm). Contoured T-plate constructs provide stiffer initial fixation than a unicortical cancellous screw construct. The T-plate is biomechanically equivalent to a bicortical screw construct, but may be superior in capturing small fragments of bone. [Orthopedics. 2018; 41(3):e395-e399.]. Copyright 2018, SLACK Incorporated.

Profile Changes and Stability following Distraction Osteogenesis with Rigid External Distraction in Adult Cleft Lip and Palate Deformities

PubMed Central

Painatt, Jaeson M.; Veeraraghavan, Ravi; Puthalath, Ushass; Peter, Sherry; Rao, Latha P.; Kuriakose, Maria

2017-01-01

Objectives: The objective of this study is to analyze the hard and soft-tissue profile changes as well as the upper airway changes after distraction osteogenesis (DO) using rigid external distraction device in adult cleft lip and palate (CLP) patients. The study also evaluates the stability of the surgical result. Materials and Methods: Three lateral cephalometric radiographs were taken: Predistraction (T1), postdistraction (T2), and 1 year after distractor removal (T3). The treatment changes (T1 vs. T2) and the stability (T2 vs. T3) were analyzed. The overall treatment changes after 1 year were also evaluated (T1 vs. T3). The lateral cephalograms were digitally analyzed with the help of software named Dolphin. Statistical Analysis Used: Wilcoxon Signed-Ranks test was used, and the probability value (P value) of 0.05 was considered as statistically significant level. Results: Eleven adult patients with CLP were retrospectively analyzed. After distraction, there was a significant mean maxillary advancement of 14 mm (P < 0.01) from a T1 value of 73.54 ± 10.38 to a T2 value of 88.2 ± 10.49. The lower facial height and the incisor exposure were significantly increased. The nasolabial angle had a significant improvement of 24.5° (P < 0.01) from a T1 value of 56.6 ± 21.03 to a T2 value of 81.18 ± 14.4.The upper airway was significantly improved by 3.7 mm (P < 0.01) with a T1 value of 13.5 ± 3.8 to a T2 value of 17.2 ± 3.66. After 1-year follow-up, there was a significant maxillary relapse of 3.20 mm (P < 0.05) from a T2 value of 8.29 ± 6.84 to a T3 value of 5.09 ± 5.59. However, the soft-tissue profile and upper airway remained stable. Conclusion: The clinician should have an understanding of the related hard and soft tissues as well as airway changes which may assist him when planning for maxillary advancement for CLP patients with DO. There were significant improvements immediately after distraction, but during the 1-year follow-up, some relapse was seen. This stressed on the need for overcorrection of about 35%–40% for adult CLP patients. PMID:28839409

Stoichiometry and pH dependence of the rabbit proton-dependent oligopeptide transporter PepT1.

PubMed

Steel, A; Nussberger, S; Romero, M F; Boron, W F; Boyd, C A; Hediger, M A

1997-02-01

1. The intestinal H(+)-coupled peptide transporter PepT1, displays a broad substrate specificity and accepts most charged and neutral di- and tripeptides. To study the proton-to-peptide stoichiometry and the dependence of the kinetic parameters on extracellular pH (pHo), rabbit PepT1 was expressed in Xenopus laevis oocytes and used for uptake studies of radiolabelled neutral and charged dipeptides, voltage-clamp analysis and intracellular pH measurements. 2. PepT1 did not display the substrate-gated anion conductances that have been found to be characteristic of members of the Na(+)- and H(+)-coupled high-affinity glutamate transporter family. In conjunction with previous data on the ion dependence of PepT1, it can therefore be concluded that peptide-evoked charge fluxes of PepT1 are entirely due to H+ movement. 3. Neutral, acidic and basic dipeptides induced intracellular acidification. The rate of acidification, the initial rates of the uptake of radiolabelled peptides and the associated charge fluxes gave proton-substrate coupling ratios of 1:1, 2:1 and 1:1 for neutral, acidic and basic dipeptides, respectively. 4. Maximal transport of the neutral and charged dipeptides Gly-Leu, Gly-Glu, Gly-Lys and Ala-Lys occurred at pHo 5.5, 5.2, 6.2 and 5.8, respectively. The Imax values were relatively pHo independent but the apparent affinity (Km(app) values for these peptides were shown to be highly pHo dependent. 5. Our data show that at physiological pH (pHo 5.5-6.0) PepT1 prefers neutral and acidic peptides. The shift in transport maximum for the acidic peptide Gly-Glu to a lower pH value suggests that acidic dipeptides are transported in the protonated form. The shift in the transport maxima of the basic dipeptides to higher pH values may involve titration of a side-chain on the transporter molecule (e.g. protonation of a histidine group). These considerations have led us to propose a model for coupled transport of neutral, acidic and basic dipeptides.

Alpha heating and isotopic mass effects in JET plasmas with sawteeth

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

Budny, R. V.; Team, JET

2016-02-09

The alpha heating experiment in the Joint European Torus (JET) 1997 DTE1 campaign is re-examined. Several effects correlated with tritium content and thermal hydrogenic isotopic mass < A> weaken the conclusion that alpha heating was clearly observed. These effects delayed the occurrence of significant sawtooth crashes allowing the electron and ion temperatures T e and T i to achieve higher values. Under otherwise equal circumstances T e and T i were typically higher for discharges with higher < A >, and significant scaling of T i, T e, and total stored energy with < A > were observed. The highermore » T i led to increased ion–electron heating rates with magnitudes comparable to those computed for alpha electron heating. Rates of other heating/loss processes also had comparable magnitudes. Simulations of T e assuming the observed scaling of T i are qualitatively consistent with the measured profiles, without invoking alpha heating« less

Fatty Acid Methyl Ester (FAME) Succession in Different Substrates as Affected by the Co-Application of Three Pesticides.

PubMed

Cardinali, Alessandra; Pizzeghello, Diego; Zanin, Giuseppe

2015-01-01

In intensive agriculture areas the use of pesticides can alter soil properties and microbial community structure with the risk of reducing soil quality. In this study the fatty acid methyl esters (FAMEs) evolution has been studied in a factorial lab experiment combining five substrates (a soil, two aged composts and their mixtures) treated with a co-application of three pesticides (azoxystrobin, chlorotoluron and epoxiconazole), with two extraction methods, and two incubation times (0 and 58 days). FAMEs extraction followed the microbial identification system (MIDI) and ester-linked method (EL). The pesticides showed high persistence, as revealed by half-life (t1/2) values ranging from 168 to 298 days, which confirms their recalcitrance to degradation. However, t1/2 values were affected by substrate and compost age down to 8 days for chlorotoluron in S and up to 453 days for epoxiconazole in 12M. Fifty-six FAMEs were detected. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed that the EL method detected a higher number of FAMEs and unique FAMEs than the MIDI one, whereas principal component analysis (PCA) highlighted that the monosaturated 18:1ω9c and cyclopropane 19:0ω10c/19ω6 were the most significant FAMEs grouping by extraction method. The cyclopropyl to monoenoic acids ratio evidenced higher stress conditions when pesticides were applied to compost and compost+soil than solely soil, as well as with final time. Overall, FAMEs profiles showed the importance of the extraction method for both substrate and incubation time, the t1/2 values highlighted the effectiveness of solely soil and the less mature compost in reducing the persistence of pesticides.

Fatty Acid Methyl Ester (FAME) Succession in Different Substrates as Affected by the Co-Application of Three Pesticides

PubMed Central

Cardinali, Alessandra; Pizzeghello, Diego; Zanin, Giuseppe

2015-01-01

Introduction In intensive agriculture areas the use of pesticides can alter soil properties and microbial community structure with the risk of reducing soil quality. Materials and Methods In this study the fatty acid methyl esters (FAMEs) evolution has been studied in a factorial lab experiment combining five substrates (a soil, two aged composts and their mixtures) treated with a co-application of three pesticides (azoxystrobin, chlorotoluron and epoxiconazole), with two extraction methods, and two incubation times (0 and 58 days). FAMEs extraction followed the microbial identification system (MIDI) and ester-linked method (EL). Results and Discussion The pesticides showed high persistence, as revealed by half-life (t1/2) values ranging from 168 to 298 days, which confirms their recalcitrance to degradation. However, t1/2 values were affected by substrate and compost age down to 8 days for chlorotoluron in S and up to 453 days for epoxiconazole in 12M. Fifty-six FAMEs were detected. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed that the EL method detected a higher number of FAMEs and unique FAMEs than the MIDI one, whereas principal component analysis (PCA) highlighted that the monosaturated 18:1ω9c and cyclopropane 19:0ω10c/19ω6 were the most significant FAMEs grouping by extraction method. The cyclopropyl to monoenoic acids ratio evidenced higher stress conditions when pesticides were applied to compost and compost+soil than solely soil, as well as with final time. Conclusion Overall, FAMEs profiles showed the importance of the extraction method for both substrate and incubation time, the t1/2 values highlighted the effectiveness of solely soil and the less mature compost in reducing the persistence of pesticides. PMID:26694029

[Effects of mushroom residue compost on growth and nutrient accumulation of Larix principis-rupprechtii containerized transplants].

PubMed

Teng, Fei; Liu, Yong; Lou, Jun Shan; Sun, Qiao Yu; Wan, Fang Fang; Yang, Chen; Zhang, Jin

2016-12-01

Excessive use of peat may cause some environmental problems. To alleviate the negative effect, an experiment was conducted with the mushroom residue compost to replace peat in Larix principis-rupprechtii containerized transplant production, and the proportion of mushroom residue compost was 0% (T 0 , control), 15% (T 1 ), 18.75% (T 2 ), 25% (T 3 ), 37.50% (T 4 ), 50% (T 5 ), 56.25% (T 6 ) and 60% (T 7 ), respectively. The physical and chemical features of the substrates and its effect on the vegetative growth and nutrient accumulation of L. principis-rupprechtii containerized transplants were studied. The results showed when the proportion of mushroom residue compost in the substrate accounted for 50% or less, there was no significant difference in the transplant height, diameter, and biomass compared with the control, and the nutrient concentration in T 2 , T 4 , T 5 treatments was significantly higher than in T 0 . The pH value was sub-acidic to neutral which was suitable to the transplant growth. When the compost proportion accounted for more than 50%, the pH value was altered to alkali and was not suitable to the transplant growth. When the proportion of mushroom residue compost accounted for 15%, the plant grew best, and the height, diameter, and total biomass got the highest. Therefore, using mushroom residue compost to replace peat in L. principis-rupprechtii containerized transplants cultivation was feasible and the maximum replacement ratio could reach 50%. The high quality transplants could be obtained when the compost replacement ratio was 15%.

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

Li, B; Yu, H; Jara, H

Purpose: To compare enhanced Laws texture derived from parametric proton density (PD) maps to other MRI-based surrogate markers (T2, PD, ADC) in assessing degrees of liver fibrosis in a murine model of hepatic fibrosis using 11.7T scanner. Methods: This animal study was IACUC approved. Fourteen mice were divided into control (n=1) and experimental (n=13). The latter were fed a DDC-supplemented diet to induce hepatic fibrosis. Liver specimens were imaged using an 11.7T scanner; the parametric PD, T2, and ADC maps were generated from spin-echo pulsed field gradient and multi-echo spin-echo acquisitions. Enhanced Laws texture analysis was applied to the PDmore » maps: first, hepatic blood vessels and liver margins were segmented/removed using an automated dual-clustering algorithm; secondly, an optimal thresholding algorithm was applied to reduce the partial volume artifact; next, mean and stdev were corrected to minimize grayscale variation across images; finally, Laws texture was extracted. Degrees of fibrosis was assessed by an experienced pathologist and digital image analysis (%Area Fibrosis). Scatterplots comparing enhanced Laws texture, T2, PD, and ADC values to degrees of fibrosis were generated and correlation coefficients were calculated. Unenhanced Laws texture was also compared to assess the effectiveness of the proposed enhancements. Results: Hepatic fibrosis and the enhanced Laws texture were strongly correlated with higher %Area Fibrosis associated with higher Laws texture (r=0.89). Only a moderate correlation was detected between %Area Fibrosis and unenhanced Laws texture (r=0.70). Strong correlation also existed between ADC and %Area Fibrosis (r=0.86). Moderate correlations were seen between %Area Fibrosis and PD (r=0.65) and T2 (r=0.66). Conclusions: Higher degrees of hepatic fibrosis are associated with increased Laws texture. The proposed enhancements improve the accuracy of Laws texture. Enhanced Laws texture features are more accurate than PD and T2 in assessing fibrosis, and can potentially serve as an accurate surrogate marker for hepatic fibrosis.« less

Carr-Purcell-Meiboom-Gill imaging of prostate cancer: quantitative T2 values for cancer discrimination.

PubMed

Roebuck, Joseph R; Haker, Steven J; Mitsouras, Dimitris; Rybicki, Frank J; Tempany, Clare M; Mulkern, Robert V

2009-05-01

Quantitative, apparent T(2) values of suspected prostate cancer and healthy peripheral zone tissue in men with prostate cancer were measured using a Carr-Purcell-Meiboom-Gill (CPMG) imaging sequence in order to assess the cancer discrimination potential of tissue T(2) values. The CPMG imaging sequence was used to image the prostates of 18 men with biopsy-proven prostate cancer. Whole gland coverage with nominal voxel volumes of 0.54 x 1.1 x 4 mm(3) was obtained in 10.7 min, resulting in data sets suitable for generating high-quality images with variable T(2)-weighting and for evaluating quantitative T(2) values on a pixel-by-pixel basis. Region-of-interest analysis of suspected healthy peripheral zone tissue and suspected cancer, identified on the basis of both T(1)- and T(2)-weighted signal intensities and available histopathology reports, yielded significantly (P<.0001) longer apparent T(2) values in suspected healthy tissue (193+/-49 ms) vs. suspected cancer (100+/-26 ms), suggesting potential utility of this method as a tissue specific discrimination index for prostate cancer. We conclude that CPMG imaging of the prostate can be performed in reasonable scan times and can provide advantages over T(2)-weighted fast spin echo (FSE) imaging alone, including quantitative T(2) values for cancer discrimination as well as proton density maps without the point spread function degradation associated with short effective echo time FSE sequences.

Carr-Purcell-Meiboom-Gill (CPMG) Imaging of Prostate Cancer: Quantitative T2 Values for Cancer Discrimination

PubMed Central

Roebuck, Joseph R.; Haker, Steven J.; Mitsouras, Dimitris; Rybicki, Frank J.; Tempany, Clare M.; Mulkern, Robert V.

2009-01-01

Quantitative, apparent T2 values of suspected prostate cancer and healthy peripheral zone tissue in men with prostate cancer were measured using a Carr-Purcell-Meiboom-Gill (CPMG) imaging sequence in order to assess the cancer discrimination potential of tissue T2 values. The CPMG imaging sequence was used to image the prostates of 18 men with biopsy proven prostate cancer. Whole gland coverage with nominal voxel volumes of 0.54 × 1.1 × 4 mm3 was obtained in 10.7 minutes, resulting in data sets suitable for generating high quality images with variable T2-weighting and for evaluating quantitative T2 values on a pixel-by-pixel basis. Region-of-interest analysis of suspected healthy peripheral zone tissue and suspected cancer, identified on the basis of both T1- and T2-weighted signal intensities and available histopathology reports, yielded significantly (p < 0.0001) longer apparent T2 values in suspected healthy tissue (193 ± 49 ms) vs. suspected cancer (100 ± 26 ms), suggesting potential utility of this method as a tissue specific discrimination index for prostate cancer. We conclude that CPMG imaging of the prostate can be performed in reasonable scan times and can provide advantages over T2-weighted fast spin echo imaging alone, including quantitative T2 values for cancer discrimination as well as proton density maps without the point spread function degradation associated with short effective echo time fast spin echo (FSE) sequences. PMID:18823731

2D and 3D T2-weighted MR sequences for the assessment of neurovascular bundle changes after nerve-sparing radical retropubic prostatectomy with erectile function correlation.

PubMed

Panebianco, Valeria; Sciarra, Alessandro; Osimani, Marcello; Lisi, Danilo; Ciccariello, Mauro; Salciccia, Stefano; Gentile, Vincenzo; Di Silverio, Franco; Passariello, Roberto

2009-01-01

The aim of this study was to assess the capability of a 3D isotropic MRI T2-weighted sequence (3D T2 ISO) in the depiction of changes of neurovascular bundles (NVBs) after bilateral nerve-sparing radical retropubic prostatectomy (RRP). Furthermore, our aim was also to introduce a new MRI classification score of the NVB alteration patterns using the International Index Erectile Function Five-Item (IIEF-5) score as standard of reference. Fifty-three consecutive patients were postoperatively submitted to two MR examinations, including both 2D TSE T2-weighted (2D T2) and 3D T2 ISO sequences. Image findings were scored using a relative five-point classification and correlated with the postoperative IIEF-5 score. Radiologists attributed 13.2% of patients to class 0, 11.3% to class I, 34% to class II, 24.5% to class III, and 16.9% to class IV. With 3D T2 ISO images, the same radiologists determined 43.3% class 0, 32% class I, 11.4% class II, 7.5% class III, and 5.7% class IV. In all cases, the correlation and regression analysis between the 3D T2 ISO and IIEF-5 score resulted in higher coefficients values. The 3D sequence correlated most closely with patients' grading of erectile function.

Critical current densities of powder-in-tube MgB2 tapes fabricated with nanometer-size Mg powder

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yamada, H.; Hirakawa, M.; Kumakura, H.; Matsumoto, A.; Kitaguchi, H.

2004-03-01

We fabricated powder-in-tube MgB2/Fe tapes using a powder mixture of nanometer-size Mg and commercial amorphous B and investigated the transport properties. High-purity nanometer-size Mg powder was fabricated by applying the thermal plasma method. 5-10 mol % SiC powder doping was tried to enhance the Jc properties. We found that the use of nanometer-size Mg powder was effective to increase the Jc values. The transport Jc values of the nondoped and 10 mol % SiC-doped tapes prepared with nanometer-size Mg powder reached 90 and 250 A/mm2 at 4.2 K and 10 T, respectively. These values were about five times higher than those of the tapes prepared with commercial Mg powder.

SNPs in FNDC5 (irisin) are associated with obesity and modulation of glucose and lipid metabolism in Saudi subjects.

PubMed

Al-Daghri, Nasser M; Mohammed, Abdul Khader; Al-Attas, Omar S; Amer, Osama E; Clerici, Mario; Alenad, Amal; Alokail, Majed S

2016-03-11

Irisin is a recently identified myokine that plays an important role in preventing obesity and insulin resistance. We investigated whether the common FNDC5 (irisin precursor) gene variants influence susceptibility to obesity and type 2 diabetes (T2D) and verified the impact of FNDC5 gene variants on serum irisin levels, glucose and lipid metabolism in a Saudi population. Genomic DNA from 814 (394 T2DM and 414 controls) subjects were genotyped for the five common SNPs (rs3480A/G, rs1746661G/T, rs1298190A/G, rs726344A/G and rs1570569G/T) of the FNDC5 gene using the TaqMan genotyping assay. Biochemical parameters and hematic concentrations of irisin and insulin as well as anthropometric indices were collected. Serum irisin levels were higher in T2DM patients compared to controls (p < 0.0001). Analyses of FNDC5 SNPs showed that: 1) The rs3480 GG associates with decreased risk of obesity (p = 0.005; odds ratio: 0.48) and lower body mass index (BMI) values (p = 0.03). In addition, GGAAG was identified as the protective haplotype against risk of obesity (p = 0.001; odds ratio: 0.23). 2) The rs1746661 G allele associates with higher triglyceride (TG) levels (p = 0.019). 3) The rs157069 TT genotype associates with higher fasting insulin (p = 0.029) and HOMA-IR (p = 0.002) as well as with lower circulating irisin levels (p = 0.016). SNPs in FNDC5 gene correlates with obesity and glucose-lipid metabolism possibly because they modulate the serum levels of irisin.

Mapping tissue inhomogeneity in acute myocarditis: a novel analytical approach to quantitative myocardial edema imaging by T2-mapping.

PubMed

Baeßler, Bettina; Schaarschmidt, Frank; Dick, Anastasia; Stehning, Christian; Schnackenburg, Bernhard; Michels, Guido; Maintz, David; Bunck, Alexander C

2015-12-23

The purpose of the present study was to investigate the diagnostic value of T2-mapping in acute myocarditis (ACM) and to define cut-off values for edema detection. Cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) data of 31 patients with ACM were retrospectively analyzed. 30 healthy volunteers (HV) served as a control. Additionally to the routine CMR protocol, T2-mapping data were acquired at 1.5 T using a breathhold Gradient-Spin-Echo T2-mapping sequence in six short axis slices. T2-maps were segmented according to the 16-segments AHA-model and segmental T2 values as well as the segmental pixel-standard deviation (SD) were analyzed. Mean differences of global myocardial T2 or pixel-SD between HV and ACM patients were only small, lying in the normal range of HV. In contrast, variation of segmental T2 values and pixel-SD was much larger in ACM patients compared to HV. In random forests and multiple logistic regression analyses, the combination of the highest segmental T2 value within each patient (maxT2) and the mean absolute deviation (MAD) of log-transformed pixel-SD (madSD) over all 16 segments within each patient proved to be the best discriminators between HV and ACM patients with an AUC of 0.85 in ROC-analysis. In classification trees, a combined cut-off of 0.22 for madSD and of 68 ms for maxT2 resulted in 83% specificity and 81% sensitivity for detection of ACM. The proposed cut-off values for maxT2 and madSD in the setting of ACM allow edema detection with high sensitivity and specificity and therefore have the potential to overcome the hurdles of T2-mapping for its integration into clinical routine.

Glioma infiltration sign on high b-value diffusion-weighted imaging in gliomas and its prognostic value.

PubMed

Zeng, Qiang; Ling, Chenhan; Shi, Feina; Dong, Fei; Jiang, Biao; Zhang, Jianmin

2018-03-01

Glioma cells may infiltrate beyond the tumor margins revealed on conventional structural images. To investigate whether the presence of a glioma infiltration sign on high b-value diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) can predict the prognosis of gliomas. Retrospective cohort. Fifty-two patients with gliomas (14 WHO grade II; 13 WHO grade III; 25 WHO grade IV). 3.0T, including a T 1 -weighted contrast-enhanced (T 1 w-CE) sequence, contrast-enhanced T 2 -flair sequence, and a DWI sequence. T 1 w-CE images and contrast-enhanced T 2 -flair images were used for identifying the tumor region for enhancing and nonenhancing gliomas, respectively. The glioma infiltration sign was defined as the presence of a peritumoral abnormal high signal region on DWI map, which was adjacent to the tumor region and had higher signal than surrounding areas. This sign was assessed on a high b-value DWI map with b = 3000 s/mm 2 . For patients with glioma infiltration sign, DWI3000 max , DWI1000 max , ADC3000 min , and ADC1000 min were measured by drawing a region of interest over the peritumoral abnormal high signal region. Survival analysis was conducted by using Cox regression. Glioma infiltration sign was observed in 28 (53.8%) patients. The occurrence rate of this sign was 92.0% in grade IV gliomas, 30.8% in grade III gliomas, and 7.1% in grade II gliomas. The glioma infiltration sign could independently predict both the progression-free survival (hazard ratio [HR], 95% confidence interval [CI] = 8.58 [3.19-23.03], P < 0.001) and overall survival (HR, 95% CI = 11.90 [3.41-41.55], P < 0.001) after adjustment. For patients with glioma infiltration sign, DWI3000 max (P = 0.005) and ADC3000 min (P = 0.008) were both independent predictors of overall survival after adjustment, while DWI1000 max and ADC1000 min were not. The glioma infiltration sign on high b-value DWI is an independent predictor of poor prognosis in glioma patients. High b-value DWI might be a convenient method to detect glioma infiltration. 3 Technical Efficacy: Stage 2 J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2018. © 2018 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.

T2-Weighted Liver MRI Using the MultiVane Technique at 3T: Comparison with Conventional T2-Weighted MRI

PubMed Central

Kang, Kyung A; Kim, EunJu; Jeong, Woo Kyoung; Choi, Dongil; Lee, Won Jae; Jung, Sin-Ho; Baek, Sun-Young

2015-01-01

Objective To assess the value of applying MultiVane to liver T2-weighted imaging (T2WI) compared with conventional T2WIs with emphasis on detection of focal liver lesions. Materials and Methods Seventy-eight patients (43 men and 35 women) with 86 hepatic lesions and 20 pancreatico-biliary diseases underwent MRI including T2WIs acquired using breath-hold (BH), respiratory-triggered (RT), and MultiVane technique at 3T. Two reviewers evaluated each T2WI with respect to artefacts, organ sharpness, and conspicuity of intrahepatic vessels, hilar duct, and main lesion using five-point scales, and made pairwise comparisons between T2WI sequences for these categories. Diagnostic accuracy (Az) and sensitivity for hepatic lesion detection were evaluated using alternative free-response receiver operating characteristic analysis. Results MultiVane T2WI was significantly better than BH-T2WI or RT-T2WI for organ sharpness and conspicuity of intrahepatic vessels and main lesion in both separate reviews and pairwise comparisons (p < 0.001). With regard to motion artefacts, MultiVane T2WI or BH-T2WI was better than RT-T2WI (p < 0.001). Conspicuity of hilar duct was better with BH-T2WI than with MultiVane T2WI (p = 0.030) or RT-T2WI (p < 0.001). For detection of 86 hepatic lesions, sensitivity (mean, 97.7%) of MultiVane T2WI was significantly higher than that of BH-T2WI (mean, 89.5%) (p = 0.008) or RT-T2WI (mean, 84.9%) (p = 0.001). Conclusion Applying the MultiVane technique to T2WI of the liver is a promising approach to improving image quality that results in increased detection of focal liver lesions compared with conventional T2WI. PMID:26357498

Effect of cold water and inverse lighting on growth performance of broiler chickens under extreme heat stress.

PubMed

Park, Sang-oh; Park, Byung-sung; Hwangbo, Jong

2015-07-01

The present study was carried out to investigate the effect of provision of extreme heat stress diet (EHD), inverse lighting, cold water on growth performance of broiler chickens exposed to extreme heat stress. The chickens were divided into four treatment groups, (T1, T2, T3, T4) as given below: Ti (EHD 1, 10:00-19:00 dark, 19:00-10:00 light, cool water 9 degrees C); T2 (EHD 2, 10:00-19:00 dark, 19:00-10:00 light, cool water 9 degrees C); T3 (EHD 1, 09:00-18:00 dark, 18:00-09:00 light, cool water 141C); T4 (EHD 2, 09:00-18:00 dark, 18:00-09:00 light, cool water 14 degrees C. EHD 1 contained soybean oil, molasses, methionine and lysine; EHD 2 contained the same ingredients as EHD 1 with addition of vitamin C. Groups T1 and T2 were given cooler water than the othertwo groups, and displayed higher body weight increase and diet intake as compared to T3 and T4 (p<0.05). The weights of their liver and gizzard were similar but the weights of the thymus and bursa of fabricius (F) were higher in groups T1 and T2 (p<0.05). It was observed that groups T1 and T2 displayed higher concentrations of blood triglyceride, total cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol and blood sugar as compared to T3 and T4; however LDL-cholesterol level was higher in groups T3 and T4 (p<0.05). T1 and T2 displayed higher levels of immunity substances such as IgG, IgAand IgM as compared to T3 and T4, but the blood level of corticosterone was lower in groups T1 and T2 (p<0.05). Ti and T2 contained higher amount of fecal Lactobacill as compared to T3 and T4; howeverT3 and T4 contained higher amount of fecal E. coli, total aerobic bacteria and coliform bacteria (p<0.05). Groups T1 and T2 displayed higher concentrations of cecal total short chain fatty acids, acetic acid and propionic acid but groups T3 and T4 displayed higher concentrations of butyric acid, isobutyric acid, valeric acid and isovaleric acid (p<0.05). The present study reports novel results such that the supply of extreme heat stress diet, inverse lighting (10:00-19:00 dark, 19:00-10:00 light) with cold water at 9 degrees C under extreme heat stress could enhance growth performance of broiler chickens.

Quantitative evaluation of hyaline articular cartilage T2 maps of knee and determine the relationship of cartilage T2 values with age, gender, articular changes.

PubMed

Cağlar, E; Şahin, G; Oğur, T; Aktaş, E

2014-11-01

To identify changes in knee joint cartilage transverse relaxation values depending on the patient's age and gender and to investigate the relationship between knee joint pathologies and the transverse relaxation time. Knee MRI images of 107 symptomatic patients with various pathologic knee conditions were analyzed retrospectively. T2 values were measured at patellar cartilage, posteromedial and posterolateral femoral cartilage adjacent to the central horn of posterior meniscus. 963 measurements were done for 107 knees MRI. Relationship of T2 values with seven features including subarticular bone marrow edema, subarticular cysts, marginal osteophytes, anterior-posterior cruciate and collateral ligament tears, posterior medial and posterior lateral meniscal tears, synovial thickening and effusion were analyzed. T2 values in all three compartments were evaluated according to age and gender. A T2 value increase correlated with age was present in all three compartments measured in the subgroup with no knee joint pathology and in all patient groups. According to the ROC curve, an increase showing a statistically significant difference was present in the patient group aged over 40 compared to the patient group aged 40 and below in all patient groups. There is a statistically difference at T2 values with and without subarticular cysts, marginal osteophytes, synovial thickening and effusion. T2 relaxation time showed a statistically significant increase in the patients with a medial meniscus tear compared to those without a tear and no statistically significant difference was found in T2 relaxation times of patients with and without a posterior lateral meniscus tear. T2 cartilage mapping on MRI provides opportunity to exhibit biochemical and structural changes related with cartilage extracellular matrix without using invasive diagnostic methods.

A modified TNM staging system for non-metastatic colorectal cancer based on nomogram analysis of SEER database.

PubMed

Kong, Xiangxing; Li, Jun; Cai, Yibo; Tian, Yu; Chi, Shengqiang; Tong, Danyang; Hu, Yeting; Yang, Qi; Li, Jingsong; Poston, Graeme; Yuan, Ying; Ding, Kefeng

2018-01-08

To revise the American Joint Committee on Cancer TNM staging system for colorectal cancer (CRC) based on a nomogram analysis of Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database, and to prove the rationality of enhancing T stage's weighting in our previously proposed T-plus staging system. Total 115,377 non-metastatic CRC patients from SEER were randomly grouped as training and testing set by ratio 1:1. The Nomo-staging system was established via three nomograms based on 1-year, 2-year and 3-year disease specific survival (DSS) Logistic regression analysis of the training set. The predictive value of Nomo-staging system for the testing set was evaluated by concordance index (c-index), likelihood ratio (L.R.) and Akaike information criteria (AIC) for 1-year, 2-year, 3-year overall survival (OS) and DSS. Kaplan-Meier survival curve was used to valuate discrimination and gradient monotonicity. And an external validation was performed on database from the Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University (SAHZU). Patients with T1-2 N1 and T1N2a were classified into stage II while T4 N0 patients were classified into stage III in Nomo-staging system. Kaplan-Meier survival curves of OS and DSS in testing set showed Nomo-staging system performed better in discrimination and gradient monotonicity, and the external validation in SAHZU database also showed distinctly better discrimination. The Nomo-staging system showed higher value in L.R. and c-index, and lower value in AIC when predicting OS and DSS in testing set. The Nomo-staging system showed better performance in prognosis prediction and the weight of lymph nodes status in prognosis prediction should be cautiously reconsidered.

Enzymatic fuel cells with an oxygen resistant variant of pyranose-2-oxidase as anode biocatalyst.

PubMed

Şahin, Samet; Wongnate, Thanyaporn; Chuaboon, Litavadee; Chaiyen, Pimchai; Yu, Eileen Hao

2018-06-01

In enzymatic fuel cells (EnFCs), hydrogen peroxide formation is one of the main problems when enzymes, such as, glucose oxidase (GOx) is used due to the conversion of oxygen to hydrogen peroxide in the catalytic reaction. To address this problem, we here report the first demonstration of an EnFC using a variant of pyranose-2-oxidase (P2O-T169G) which has been shown to have low activity towards oxygen. A simple and biocompatible immobilisation approach incorporating multi-walled-carbon nanotubes within ferrocene (Fc)-Nafion film was implemented to construct EnFCs. Successful immobilisation of the enzymes was demonstrated showing 3.2 and 1.7-fold higher current than when P2O-T169G and GOx were used in solution, respectively. P2O-T169G showed 25% higher power output (maximum power density value of 8.45 ± 1.6 μW cm -2 ) and better stability than GOx in aerated glucose solutions. P2O-T169G maintained > 70% of its initial current whereas GOx lost activity > 90% during the first hour of 12 h operation at 0.15 V (vs Ag/Ag + ). A different fuel cell configuration using gas-diffusion cathode and carbon paper electrodes were used to improve the power output of the fuel cell to 29.8 ± 6.1 µW cm -2 . This study suggests that P2O-T169G with low oxygen activity could be a promising anode biocatalyst for EnFC applications. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Substituent effects on photosensitized splitting of thymine cyclobutane dimer by an attached indole.

PubMed

Tang, Wenjian; Zhou, Hongmei; Wang, Jing; Pan, Chunxiao; Shi, Jingbo; Song, Qinhua

2012-12-21

In chromophore-containing cyclobutane pyrimidine dimer (CPD) model systems, solvent effects on the splitting efficiency may depend on the length of the linker, the molecular conformation, and the oxidation potential of the donor. To further explore the relationship between chromophore structure and splitting efficiency, we prepared a series of substituted indole-T< >T model compounds 2 a-2 g and measured their splitting quantum yields in various solvents. Two reverse solvent effects were observed: an increase in splitting efficiency in solvents of lower polarity for models 2 a-2 d with an electron-donating group (EDG), and vice versa for models 2 e-2 g with an electron-withdrawing group (EWG). According to the Hammett equation, the negative value of the slope of the Hammett plot indicates that the indole moiety during the T< >T-splitting reaction loses negative charge, and the larger negative value implies that the repair reaction is more sensitive to substituent effects in low-polarity solvents. The EDGs of the models 2 a-2 d can delocalize the charge-separated state, and low-polarity solvents make it more stable, which leads to higher splitting efficiency in low-polarity solvents. Conversely, the EWGs of models 2 e-2 g favor destabilization of the charge-separated state, and high-polarity solvents decrease the destabilization and hence lead to more efficient splitting in high-polarity solvents. Copyright © 2012 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Ab Initio Computations and Active Thermochemical Tables Hand in Hand: Heats of Formation of Core Combustion Species.

PubMed

Klippenstein, Stephen J; Harding, Lawrence B; Ruscic, Branko

2017-09-07

The fidelity of combustion simulations is strongly dependent on the accuracy of the underlying thermochemical properties for the core combustion species that arise as intermediates and products in the chemical conversion of most fuels. High level theoretical evaluations are coupled with a wide-ranging implementation of the Active Thermochemical Tables (ATcT) approach to obtain well-validated high fidelity predictions for the 0 K heat of formation for a large set of core combustion species. In particular, high level ab initio electronic structure based predictions are obtained for a set of 348 C, N, O, and H containing species, which corresponds to essentially all core combustion species with 34 or fewer electrons. The theoretical analyses incorporate various high level corrections to base CCSD(T)/cc-pVnZ analyses (n = T or Q) using H 2 , CH 4 , H 2 O, and NH 3 as references. Corrections for the complete-basis-set limit, higher-order excitations, anharmonic zero-point energy, core-valence, relativistic, and diagonal Born-Oppenheimer effects are ordered in decreasing importance. Independent ATcT values are presented for a subset of 150 species. The accuracy of the theoretical predictions is explored through (i) examination of the magnitude of the various corrections, (ii) comparisons with other high level calculations, and (iii) through comparison with the ATcT values. The estimated 2σ uncertainties of the three methods devised here, ANL0, ANL0-F12, and ANL1, are in the range of ±1.0-1.5 kJ/mol for single-reference and moderately multireference species, for which the calculated higher order excitations are 5 kJ/mol or less. In addition to providing valuable references for combustion simulations, the subsequent inclusion of the current theoretical results into the ATcT thermochemical network is expected to significantly improve the thermochemical knowledge base for less-well studied species.

Ab Initio Computations and Active Thermochemical Tables Hand in Hand: Heats of Formation of Core Combustion Species

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

Klippenstein, Stephen J.; Harding, Lawrence B.; Ruscic, Branko

Here, the fidelity of combustion simulations is strongly dependent on the accuracy of the underlying thermochemical properties for the core combustion species that arise as intermediates and products in the chemical conversion of most fuels. High level theoretical evaluations are coupled with a wide-ranging implementation of the Active Thermochemical Tables (ATcT) approach to obtain well-validated high fidelity predictions for the 0 K heat of formation for a large set of core combustion species. In particular, high level ab initio electronic structure based predictions are obtained for a set of 348 C, N, O, and H containing species, which corresponds tomore » essentially all core combustion species with 34 or fewer electrons. The theoretical analyses incorporate various high level corrections to base CCSD(T)/cc-pVnZ analyses (n = T or Q) using H 2, CH 4, H 2O, and NH 3 as references. Corrections for the complete-basis-set limit, higher-order excitations, anharmonic zeropoint energy, core–valence, relativistic, and diagonal Born–Oppenheimer effects are ordered in decreasing importance. Independent ATcT values are presented for a subset of 150 species. The accuracy of the theoretical predictions is explored through (i) examination of the magnitude of the various corrections, (ii) comparisons with other high level calculations, and (iii) through comparison with the ATcT values. The estimated 2σ uncertainties of the three methods devised here, ANL0, ANL0-F12, and ANL1, are in the range of ±1.0–1.5 kJ/mol for single-reference and moderately multireference species, for which the calculated higher order excitations are 5 kJ/mol or less. In addition to providing valuable references for combustion simulations, the subsequent inclusion of the current theoretical results into the ATcT thermochemical network is expected to significantly improve the thermochemical knowledge base for less-well studied species.« less

Ab Initio Computations and Active Thermochemical Tables Hand in Hand: Heats of Formation of Core Combustion Species

DOE PAGES

Klippenstein, Stephen J.; Harding, Lawrence B.; Ruscic, Branko

2017-07-31

Here, the fidelity of combustion simulations is strongly dependent on the accuracy of the underlying thermochemical properties for the core combustion species that arise as intermediates and products in the chemical conversion of most fuels. High level theoretical evaluations are coupled with a wide-ranging implementation of the Active Thermochemical Tables (ATcT) approach to obtain well-validated high fidelity predictions for the 0 K heat of formation for a large set of core combustion species. In particular, high level ab initio electronic structure based predictions are obtained for a set of 348 C, N, O, and H containing species, which corresponds tomore » essentially all core combustion species with 34 or fewer electrons. The theoretical analyses incorporate various high level corrections to base CCSD(T)/cc-pVnZ analyses (n = T or Q) using H 2, CH 4, H 2O, and NH 3 as references. Corrections for the complete-basis-set limit, higher-order excitations, anharmonic zeropoint energy, core–valence, relativistic, and diagonal Born–Oppenheimer effects are ordered in decreasing importance. Independent ATcT values are presented for a subset of 150 species. The accuracy of the theoretical predictions is explored through (i) examination of the magnitude of the various corrections, (ii) comparisons with other high level calculations, and (iii) through comparison with the ATcT values. The estimated 2σ uncertainties of the three methods devised here, ANL0, ANL0-F12, and ANL1, are in the range of ±1.0–1.5 kJ/mol for single-reference and moderately multireference species, for which the calculated higher order excitations are 5 kJ/mol or less. In addition to providing valuable references for combustion simulations, the subsequent inclusion of the current theoretical results into the ATcT thermochemical network is expected to significantly improve the thermochemical knowledge base for less-well studied species.« less

Early paleozoic granodioritic plutons in the Shedong W-Mo ore district, Guangxi, southern China: Products of re-melting of middle Proterozoic crust due to magma underplating

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jiang, Xingzhou; Kang, Zhiqiang; Xu, Jifeng; Feng, Zuohai; Pang, Chongjin; Fang, Guicong; Wu, Jiachang; Xiong, Songquan

2017-06-01

The Shedong W-Mo ore district in the south-central Dayaoshan Uplift of Guangxi, southern China hosts the Baoshan and Pingtoubei deposits, both of which occur in granodioritic plutons. Zircon U-Pb dating of granodiorites and its mafic microgranular enclaves (MMEs) in the Baoshan deposit yielded ages of 439.8 ± 3.2 and 441.1 ± 2.2 Ma, respectively. Granodiorites have moderate SiO2 (54.5-63.0 wt.%) and high Al2O3 (15.4-17.8 wt.%) contents, wide variations in major element ratios, significant rare earth element fractionation, and small negative Eu anomalies. They are rich in Th, U, Zr, and Hf, and depleted in Ba, Nb, and Ti. Their initial 87Sr/86Sr, εNd(t), and εHf(t) values are in the range of 0.7086-0.7091, -5.2 to -6.6 and -6.3 to +1.6, respectively. Rounded or lenticular MMEs have relatively low silica and high mafic components, depletion in Eu, Sr, and Zr, and marked negative Eu anomalies. Rb/Sr and Nb/Ta ratios, and εNd(t) and εHf(t) values of the MMEs are higher than those of host granodiorites, indicating a different magmatic source. Zircon U-Pb dating of the unexposed granodiorite porphyry in the Pingtoubei deposit yielded an age of 440.0 ± 1.7 Ma. The granodiorite porphyries have high SiO2 and low K2O, FeOT, and MgO contents, with similar trace element features to the granodiorites at the Baoshan deposit, although the former has small negative Eu anomalies. Its initial 87Sr/86Sr values range from 0.7162 to 0.7173, εNd(t) values from -8.7 to -12.3, and εHf(t) values from -7.8 to +1.3, indicative of a crustal source. Nd and Hf two-stage model ages of the granodiorites, MMEs, and granodiorite porphyries have a narrow range between 1.3 and 2.2 Ga. We propose that the granodiorites and MMEs at the Baoshan deposit were produced through re-melting of middle Proterozoic crust as a result of underplating of mantle-derived magmas in a transitional compression-to-extension tectonic setting. Mantle-derived magmas provided the heat and material for the formation of the granodiorites and MMEs.

Effects of Natural Bioactive Products on the Growth and Ginsenoside Contents of Panax ginseng Cultured in an Aeroponic System

PubMed Central

Kim, Geum-Soog; Lee, Seung-Eun; Noh, Hyung-Jun; Kwon, Hyuck; Lee, Sung-Woo; Kim, Seung-Yu; Kim, Yong-Bum

2012-01-01

This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of natural bioactive products such as Manda enzyme (T1), Yangmyeongwon (T2), effective microorganisms (T3), and Kelpak (T4) on the growth and ginsenoside contents of Panax ginseng cultured in an aeroponic system using a two-layer vertical type of nutrient bath under natural light conditions. The growth of ginseng plants showed specific characteristics according to the positions in which they were cultured due to the difference of light transmittance and temperature in the upper and lower layers during aeroponic culture in a two-layer vertical type of system. The growth of the aerial part of the leaves and stems of ginseng plants cultured in the lower layer (4,000 to 6,000 lx, 23℃ to 26℃) of the nutrient bath was observed to be superior to that of the ginseng plants cultured in the upper layer (12,000 to 15,000 lx, 25℃ to 28℃). The leaf area was significantly larger in the treatment of T2 and T4 (46.70 cm2) than with other treatments. Conversely, the values of the root weight and root diameter were higher in ginseng plants cultured in the upper layer of the nutrient bath. The root weight was significantly heavier in the treatment of T4 (6.46 g) and T3 (6.26 g) than with other treatments. The total ginsenoside content in the leaves and roots was highest in the ginseng plants cultured by the treatment of T1, at 16.20%, while the total ginsenoside content obtained by other treatments decreased in the order of T4, T5 (control), T2, and T3, at 13.21%, 12.30%, 14.84%, and 14.86%, respectively. The total ginsenoside content of the ginseng leaves was found to be significantly higher in the treatment of T1 in the lower layer of the nutrient bath, at 15.30%, while the content of the ginseng roots in the treatments of T3 and T4, at 1.27% and 1.23%, respectively, was significantly higher than in other treatments in the upper layer of the nutrient bath. PMID:23717147

RESULTS OF THE FY09 ENHANCED DOE HIGH LEVEL WASTE MELTER THROUGHPUT STUDIES AT SRNL

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

Johnson, F.; Edwards, T.

2010-06-23

High-level waste (HLW) throughput (i.e., the amount of waste processed per unit time) is a function of two critical parameters: waste loading (WL) and melt rate. For the Waste Treatment and Immobilization Plant (WTP) at the Hanford Site and the Defense Waste Processing Facility (DWPF) at the Savannah River Site (SRS), increasing HLW throughput would significantly reduce the overall mission life cycle costs for the Department of Energy (DOE). The objective of this task is to develop data, assess property models, and refine or develop the necessary models to support increased WL of HLW at SRS. It is a continuationmore » of the studies initiated in FY07, but is under the specific guidance of a Task Change Request (TCR)/Work Authorization received from DOE headquarters (Project Number RV071301). Using the data generated in FY07, FY08 and historical data, two test matrices (60 glasses total) were developed at the Savannah River National Laboratory (SRNL) in order to generate data in broader compositional regions. These glasses were fabricated and characterized using chemical composition analysis, X-ray Diffraction (XRD), viscosity, liquidus temperature (TL) measurement and durability as defined by the Product Consistency Test (PCT). The results of this study are summarized below: (1) In general, the current durability model predicts the durabilities of higher waste loading glasses quite well. A few of the glasses exhibited poorer durability than predicted. (2) Some of the glasses exhibited anomalous behavior with respect to durability (normalized leachate for boron (NL [B])). The quenched samples of FY09EM21-02, -07 and -21 contained no nepheline or other wasteform affecting crystals, but have unacceptable NL [B] values (> 10 g/L). The ccc sample of FY09EM21-07 has a NL [B] value that is more than one half the value of the quenched sample. These glasses also have lower concentrations of Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} and SiO{sub 2}. (3) Five of the ccc samples (EM-13, -14, -15, -29 and -30) completely crystallized with both magnetite and nepheline, and still had extremely low NL [B] values. These particular glasses have more CaO present than any of the other glasses in the matrix. It appears that while all of the glasses contain nepheline, the NL [B] values decrease as the CaO concentration increases from 2.3 wt% to 4.3 wt%. A different form of nepheline may be created at higher concentrations of CaO that does not significantly reduce glass durability. (4) The T{sub L} model appears to be under-predicting the measured values of higher waste loading glasses. Trends in T{sub L} with composition are not evident in the data from these studies. (5) A small number of glasses in the FY09 matrix have measured viscosities that are much lower than the viscosity range over which the current model was developed. The decrease in viscosity is due to a higher concentration of non-bridging oxygens (NBO). A high iron concentration is the cause of the increase in NBO. Durability, viscosity and T{sub L} data collected during FY07 and FY09 that specifically targeted higher waste loading glasses was compiled and assessed. It appears that additional data may be required to expand the coverage of the T{sub L} and viscosity models for higher waste loading glasses. In general, the compositional regions of the higher waste loading glasses are very different than those used to develop these models. On the other hand, the current durability model seems to be applicable to the new data. At this time, there is no evidence to modify this model; however additional experimental studies should be conducted to determine the cause of the anomalous durability data.« less

Does T2 mapping of the posterior annulus fibrosus indicate the presence of lumbar intervertebral disc herniation? A 3.0 Tesla magnetic resonance study.

PubMed

Messner, Alina; Stelzeneder, David; Trattnig, Stefan; Welsch, Götz H; Schinhan, Martina; Apprich, Sebastian; Brix, Martin; Windhager, Reinhard; Trattnig, Siegfried

2017-03-01

Indicating lumbar disc herniation via magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) T2 mapping in the posterior annulus fibrosus (AF). Sagittal T2 maps of 313 lumbar discs of 64 patients with low back pain were acquired at 3.0 Tesla (3T). The discs were rated according to disc herniation and bulging. Region of interest (ROI) analysis was performed on median, sagittal T2 maps. T2 values of the AF, in the most posterior 10% (PAF-10) and 20% of the disc (PAF-20), were compared. A significant increase in the T2 values of discs with herniations affecting the imaged area, compared to bulging discs and discs with lateral herniation, was shown in the PAF-10, where no association to the NP was apparent. The PAF-20 exhibited a moderate correlation to the nucleus pulposus (NP). High T2 values in the PAF-10 suggest the presence of disc herniation (DH). The results indicate that T2 values in the PAF-20 correspond more to changes in the NP.

Automated T2 relaxometry of the hippocampus for temporal lobe epilepsy.

PubMed

Winston, Gavin P; Vos, Sjoerd B; Burdett, Jane L; Cardoso, M Jorge; Ourselin, Sebastien; Duncan, John S

2017-09-01

Hippocampal sclerosis (HS), the most common cause of refractory temporal lobe epilepsy, is associated with hippocampal volume loss and increased T2 signal. These can be identified on quantitative imaging with hippocampal volumetry and T2 relaxometry. Although hippocampal segmentation for volumetry has been automated, T2 relaxometry currently involves subjective and time-consuming manual delineation of regions of interest. In this work, we develop and validate an automated technique for hippocampal T2 relaxometry. Fifty patients with unilateral or bilateral HS and 50 healthy controls underwent T 1 -weighted and dual-echo fast recovery fast spin echo scans. Hippocampi were automatically segmented using a multi-atlas-based segmentation algorithm (STEPS) and a template database. Voxelwise T2 maps were determined using a monoexponential fit. The hippocampal segmentations were registered to the T2 maps and eroded to reduce partial volume effect. Voxels with T2 >170 msec excluded to minimize cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) contamination. Manual determination of T2 values was performed twice in each subject. Twenty controls underwent repeat scans to assess interscan reproducibility. Hippocampal T2 values were reliably determined using the automated method. There was a significant ipsilateral increase in T2 values in HS (p < 0.001), and a smaller but significant contralateral increase. The combination of hippocampal volumes and T2 values separated the groups well. There was a strong correlation between automated and manual methods for hippocampal T2 measurement (0.917 left, 0.896 right, both p < 0.001). Interscan reproducibility was superior for automated compared to manual measurements. Automated hippocampal segmentation can be reliably extended to the determination of hippocampal T2 values, and a combination of hippocampal volumes and T2 values can separate subjects with HS from healthy controls. There is good agreement with manual measurements, and the technique is more reproducible on repeat scans than manual measurement. This protocol can be readily introduced into a clinical workflow for the assessment of patients with focal epilepsy. © 2017 The Authors. Epilepsia published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of International League Against Epilepsy.

Evaluating the association of APOA2 polymorphism with insulin resistance in adolescents

PubMed Central

Zaki, Moushira Erfan; Amr, Khalda Sayed; Abdel-Hamid, Mohamed

2014-01-01

Background 265T>C SNP in the APOA-II gene promoter may be associated with obesity risk and insulin resistance (IR). This study aims to analyze the association between the APOA2 − 265T>C SNP and risk for obesity and IR in adolescents. Material and methods The study was conducted on 500 adolescents. They were 240 obese and 260 non-obese individuals, aged 16–21 years old. Their mean age was 18.25 ± 2.54 years. Variables examined body weight, height, waist circumference (WC), systolic and diastolic blood pressure (BP), body fat percentage (BF%), and abdominal visceral fat layer. Homeostasis Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR) was used as a biomarker for IR. BF% was assessed by body composition analyzer and abdominal visceral fat thickness was determined by ultrasonography. The APOA2 − 265T>C polymorphism genotype was analyzed by PCR amplification of a 273-bp fragment. Results Genotype frequencies were in Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium. The frequency of the mutant C allele was significantly higher in obese cases than non-obese cases. After multivariate adjustment, waist, BF%, visceral adipose layer and HOMA-IR were significantly higher in homozygous allele CC carriers than TT + TC carriers. Homozygous individuals for the CC allele had statistically higher values of energy intake, total fat (g/day) and saturated fat (SATFAT) than carriers of the T allele. Conclusions Homozygous individuals for the C allele had higher obesity risk than carriers of the T allele and had elevated levels of visceral adipose tissue. Moreover, the present study shows that the CC polymorphism is associated with the development of IR [OR 1.89 (1.35–2.91), P = .012] and remains significant after adjusting for gender, age and body mass index. PMID:25606421

Evidence of degassing-induced oxidation of relatively oxidized K-rich magmas caused by degassing of dissolved SO­42- (S6+) component in the melt to SO2 (S4+) in the gas phase

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pu, X.; Lange, R. A.; Moore, G. M.

2016-12-01

Near Volcán Colima in the Mexican volcanic arc, nine cones erupted minette, leucite basanite and basanite. These K-rich lavas have high post-eruptive Fe3+/FeT ratios (≤0.63) and sulfur contents (≤ 1004 ppm) (Carmichael et al., 2006). Olivine-hosted melt inclusions record ≤ 6.2wt% H2O and ≤ 6700ppm sulfur (Vigouroux et al., 2008). Here, we test whether the post-eruptive Fe3+/FeT ratios, measured by titration on fresh lavas, reflect magmatic values or a change in oxidation state during degassing. To constrain pre-eruptive fO2 (ilmenite is absent), the most Mg-rich olivine analyzed in each sample, together with a Fe-Mg KD (olivine-melt) of 0.355 (from hydrous experiments of Righter and Carmichael (1996) on a minette and the Jayasuriya et al. (2004) model to relate melt Fe2+/Fe3+ ratio to melt temperature and fO2), were used to obtain the Fe3+/FeT ratio at the onset of olivine crystallization. The resulting Fe3+/FeT ratios (0.31-0.41) and ΔNNO values (1.2-2.4) for the nine K-rich magmas are systematically lower than the post-eruptive values, which suggests that degassing induced oxidation may have occurred. In addition, the pre-eruptive Fe3+/FeT ratios and ΔNNO values are higher than those (0.19-0.31 and -0.2 to +1.2, respectively) documented for calc-alkaline basalts from Michoacán-Guanajuato Volcanic Field (MGVF) using a similar method (Pu et al., 2016). Because a similar increase between pre- and post-eruptive Fe3+/FeT ratios is not found in the MGVF samples, we infer that the increase between the pre- and post-eruptive Fe3+/FeT ratios in the K-rich samples is caused by the relatively high solubility of sulfate (S6+ in CaSO4 component) in the relatively oxidized (ΔNNO ≤ 2.4) potassic melts, which then degassed as S4+ (SO2). We deduce that oxidation caused by degassing of sulfur can only occur in melts that were already relatively oxidized, because the degassing-induced oxidation process requires an initial high concentration of sulfate in the melt phase.

Relation of Osteoprotegerin, Visfatin and Ghrelin to Metabolic Syndrome in Type 2 Diabetic Patients

PubMed Central

Ahmed, Manal Basyouni; Ismail, Maha Imam Ahmed; Meki, Abdel-Raheim M.

2015-01-01

Background It is now realized that insulin resistance plays a principal role in initiating the pathologic manifestations of the metabolic syndrome (MetS). Objectives The aim of this study was to assess the possible role of osteoprotegerin, visfatin and ghrelin in the pathogenesis of MetS among type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Design and methods Serum blood samples were obtained from 116 subjects (39 T2DM; 48 T2DM with MetS; 29 healthy controls). Glycemic status and lipid profile were assessed by enzymatic method. Osteoprotegerin, visfatin, ghrelin and insulin were measured by ELISA method. Results Osteoprotegerin and visfatin were significantly higher, while ghrelin was significantly lower in diabetic patients compared to healthy control group (p<0.05). Moreover, Osteoprotegerin and visfatin showed significant higher levels in T2DM patients with MetS than those without MetS (p<0.05). The best cut-off values for the investigated markers were determined by ROC curve. Osteoprotegerin (1.06 ng/mL), visfatin (32.27 ng/mL) and ghrelin (33.65 pg/mL) presented sensitivity of 76%, 92% and 39.1%; respectively and specificity of 41%, 69.2% and 62.9%; respectively, in predicting MetS among T2DM. Among the investigated parameters, Visfatin was the one which predicts MetS among diabetic patients [AUC=0.88, p<0.05]. Conclusion Osteoprotegerin, visfatin and ghrelin might be implicated in the pathogenesis of diabetes. Moreover, osteoprotegerin and visfatin may have additional potential role in the development of the metabolic syndrome. Visfatin was superior among studied parameters in predicting MetS among T2DM. PMID:26309431

Effect of Acute Effort on Isometric Strength and Body Balance: Trained vs. Untrained Paradigm.

PubMed

Sterkowicz, Stanisław; Jaworski, Janusz; Lech, Grzegorz; Pałka, Tomasz; Sterkowicz-Przybycień, Katarzyna; Bujas, Przemysław; Pięta, Paweł; Mościński, Zenon

2016-01-01

Years of training in competitive sports leads to human body adaptation to a specific type of exercise. In judo bouts, maintaining hand grip on an opponent's clothes and postural balance is essential for the effective technical and tactical actions. This study compares changes after maximal anaerobic exercise among judo athletes and untrained subjects regarding 1) maximum isometric handgrip strength (HGSmax) and accuracy at the perceived 50% maximum handgrip force (1/2HGSmax) and 2) the balance of 13 judo athletes at national (n = 8) and international (n = 5) competitive levels and 19 untrained university students. The groups did not differ in age, body height, and weight. Body mass index (BMI) and body composition (JAWON) were evaluated. The Wingate Anaerobic Test (WAnT, Monark 875E) measured recommended anaerobic capacity indices. Hand grip strength (Takei dynamometer) and balance (biplate balance platform) were measured before warm-up (T1), before the WAnT test (T2), and after (T3). Parametric or non-parametric tests were performed after verifying the variable distribution assumption. Judoists had higher BMI and fat-free mass index (FFMI) than the students. The athletes also showed higher relative total work and relative peak power and lower levels of lactic acid. The difference in judoists between HGSmax at T1 and HGSmax at T3 was statistically significant. Before warm-up (T1), athletes showed higher strength (more divergent from the calculated ½HGSmax value) compared to students. Substantial fatigue after the WAnT test significantly deteriorated the body stability indices, which were significantly better in judo athletes at all time points. The findings suggest specific body adaptations in judoists, especially for body composition, anaerobic energy system efficiency, and postural balance. These characteristics could be trained for specifically by judo athletes to meet the time-motion and anaerobic demands of contemporary bouts.

Effect of Acute Effort on Isometric Strength and Body Balance: Trained vs. Untrained Paradigm

PubMed Central

Sterkowicz, Stanisław; Jaworski, Janusz; Lech, Grzegorz; Pałka, Tomasz; Sterkowicz-Przybycień, Katarzyna; Bujas, Przemysław; Pięta, Paweł; Mościński, Zenon

2016-01-01

Years of training in competitive sports leads to human body adaptation to a specific type of exercise. In judo bouts, maintaining hand grip on an opponent’s clothes and postural balance is essential for the effective technical and tactical actions. This study compares changes after maximal anaerobic exercise among judo athletes and untrained subjects regarding 1) maximum isometric handgrip strength (HGSmax) and accuracy at the perceived 50% maximum handgrip force (1/2HGSmax) and 2) the balance of 13 judo athletes at national (n = 8) and international (n = 5) competitive levels and 19 untrained university students. The groups did not differ in age, body height, and weight. Body mass index (BMI) and body composition (JAWON) were evaluated. The Wingate Anaerobic Test (WAnT, Monark 875E) measured recommended anaerobic capacity indices. Hand grip strength (Takei dynamometer) and balance (biplate balance platform) were measured before warm-up (T1), before the WAnT test (T2), and after (T3). Parametric or non-parametric tests were performed after verifying the variable distribution assumption. Judoists had higher BMI and fat-free mass index (FFMI) than the students. The athletes also showed higher relative total work and relative peak power and lower levels of lactic acid. The difference in judoists between HGSmax at T1 and HGSmax at T3 was statistically significant. Before warm-up (T1), athletes showed higher strength (more divergent from the calculated ½HGSmax value) compared to students. Substantial fatigue after the WAnT test significantly deteriorated the body stability indices, which were significantly better in judo athletes at all time points. The findings suggest specific body adaptations in judoists, especially for body composition, anaerobic energy system efficiency, and postural balance. These characteristics could be trained for specifically by judo athletes to meet the time-motion and anaerobic demands of contemporary bouts. PMID:27218258

The positive effect of moderate walking exercise on chemerin levels in Portuguese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

PubMed

Neuparth, Maria João; Proença, Jorge Brandão; Santos-Silva, Alice; Coimbra, Susana

2014-02-01

Physical exercise intervention is known to be crucial in the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). We aimed to evaluate, in patients with T2DM, the effect of regular moderate walking exercise on markers of oxidative stress, lipid metabolism, and inflammation. We studied 30 patients with T2DM who walked regularly during the last year and 53 patients with T2DM who did not perform any type of exercise. The patients were evaluated for chemerin, adiponectin, leptin, oxidized low-density lipoprotein, and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels. The active T2DM patients showed significantly lower body mass index, as compared with the inactive patients. The active T2DM patients showed significantly lower levels of chemerin and CRP than those of the inactive T2DM patients (CRP lost significance after adjustment for body mass index). The active patients, compared with the inactive, presented a trend toward higher levels of adiponectin and lower values of oxidized low-density lipoprotein. Leptin differed significantly between sexes, and the active women presented a trend toward lower levels as compared with the inactive women. In the patients with T2DM, the practice of moderate walking in a regular basis was sufficient to reduce chemerin levels, which suggests that practice of regular physical exercise should be encouraged.

Retrospective 25-year follow-up of treatment outcomes in angle Class III patients : Early versus late treatment.

PubMed

Wendl, B; Muchitsch, A P; Winsauer, H; Walter, A; Droschl, H; Jakse, N; Wendl, M; Wendl, T

2017-05-01

To assess early versus late treatment of Class III syndrome for skeletal and dental differences. Thirty-eight Class III patients treated with a chincup were retrospectively analyzed. Baseline data were obtained by reviewing pretreatment (T0) anamnestic records, cephalograms, and casts. The cases were assigned to an early or a late treatment group based on age at T0 (up to 9 years or older than 9 years but before the pubertal growth spurt). Both groups were further compared based on posttreatment data (T1) and long-term follow-up data collected approximately 25 years after treatment (T2). Early treatment was successful in 74% and late treatment in 67% of cases. More failures were noted among male patients. The late treatment group was characterized post therapeutically by significantly more pronounced skeletal parameters of jaw size relative to normal Class I values; in addition, a greater skeletal discrepancy between maxilla and mandible, higher values for mandibular length, Cond-Pog, ramus height, overjet, anterior posterior dysplasia indicator (APDI), lower anterior face height, and gonial angle were measured at T1. The angle between the AB line and mandibular plane was found to be larger at T0, T1, and T2, as well as more pronounced camouflage positions of the lower anterior teeth at T0. The early treatment group was found to exhibit greater amounts of negative overjet at T0 but more effective correction at T1. Early treatment of Class III syndrome resulted in greater skeletal changes with less dental compensation.

Image quality assessment of silent T2 PROPELLER sequence for brain imaging in infants.

PubMed

Kim, Hyun Gi; Choi, Jin Wook; Yoon, Soo Han; Lee, Sieun

2018-02-01

Infants are vulnerable to high acoustic noise. Acoustic noise generated by MR scanning can be reduced by a silent sequence. The purpose of this study is to compare the image quality of the conventional and silent T2 PROPELLER sequences for brain imaging in infants. A total of 36 scans were acquired from 24 infants using a 3 T MR scanner. Each patient underwent both conventional and silent T2 PROPELLER sequences. Acoustic noise level was measured. Quantitative and qualitative assessments were performed with the images taken with each sequence. The sound pressure level of the conventional T2 PROPELLER imaging sequence was 92.1 dB and that of the silent T2 PROPELLER imaging sequence was 73.3 dB (reduction of 20%). On quantitative assessment, the two sequences (conventional vs silent T2 PROPELLER) did not show significant difference in relative contrast (0.069 vs 0.068, p value = 0.536) and signal-to-noise ratio (75.4 vs 114.8, p value = 0.098). Qualitative assessment of overall image quality (p value = 0.572), grey-white differentiation (p value = 0.986), shunt-related artefact (p value > 0.999), motion artefact (p value = 0.801) and myelination degree in different brain regions (p values ≥ 0.092) did not show significant difference between the two sequences. The silent T2 PROPELLER sequence reduces acoustic noise and generated comparable image quality to that of the conventional sequence. Advances in knowledge: This is the first report to compare silent T2 PROPELLER images with that of conventional T2 PROPELLER images in children.

Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase C677T mutation and risk of retinal vein thrombosis.

PubMed

Soltanpour, Mohammad Soleiman; Soheili, Zahra; Shakerizadeh, Ali; Pourfathollah, Ali Akbar; Samiei, Shahram; Meshkani, Reza; Shahjahani, Mohammad; Karimi, Abbas

2013-06-01

Elevated plasma homocysteine (Hcy) level has been established as a significant risk factor for venous thrombosis and cardiovascular disease. Homozygosity for the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) C677T mutation has been associated with elevated plasma Hcy concentration and may contribute to retinal vein thrombosis (RVT) development. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether the hyperhomocysteinemia and/or homozygosity for the MTHFR C677T mutation are associated with an increased risk for RVT. Our study population consisted of 73 consecutive patients (50-78 years old) with RVT and 73 control subjects (51-80 years old), matched for age and sex. Genotyping for the MTHFR C677T mutation was performed by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism technique and Hcy level was determined by an enzyme immunoassay kit. The prevalence of 677TT genotype was higher in patients than control subjects, but the difference in frequency didn't reach a significant value (P = 0.07). The frequency of the 677T allele was 26% and 21.2% in patients and controls, respectively and did not differ significantly between the two groups (odds ratio = 1.3, 95% confidence interval (0.75-2.24), P = 0.33). Fasting plasma total Hcy level was significantly higher in patients than controls (P = 0.001). Our study demonstrated that hyperhomocysteinemia, but not the MTHFR C677T mutation, is associated with RVT.

25-Hydroxyvitamin D Status and Risk for Colorectal Cancer and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Epidemiological Studies

PubMed Central

Ekmekcioglu, Cem; Haluza, Daniela; Kundi, Michael

2017-01-01

Epidemiological evidence suggests an association between low vitamin D status and risk for various outcomes including cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Analyzing serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] is the most established means to evaluate an individual’s vitamin D status. However, cutoff values for 25(OH)D insufficiency as well as for optimal 25(OH)D levels are controversial. This systematic review critically summarizes the epidemiological evidence regarding 25(OH)D levels and the risk for colorectal cancer and T2DM. The meta-analytical calculation revealed a pooled relative risk (RR) of 0.62 (CI 0.56–0.70; I2 = 14.7%) for colorectal cancer and an RR of 0.66 (CI 0.61–0.73; I2 = 38.6%) for T2DM when comparing individuals with the highest category of 25(OH)D with those in the lowest. A dose–response analysis showed an inverse association between 25(OH)D levels and RR for both outcomes up to concentrations of about 55 ng/mL for colorectal cancer and about 65 ng/mL for T2DM. At still higher 25(OH)D levels the RR increases slightly, consistent with a U-shaped association. In conclusion, a higher 25(OH)D status is associated with a lower risk for colorectal cancer and T2DM; however, this advantage is gradually lost as levels increase beyond 50–60 ng/mL. PMID:28134804

Chemical-exchange-sensitive MRI of amide, amine and NOE at 9.4 T versus 15.2 T.

PubMed

Chung, Julius Juhyun; Choi, Wonmin; Jin, Tao; Lee, Jung Hee; Kim, Seong-Gi

2017-09-01

Chemical exchange (CE)-sensitive MRI benefits greatly from stronger magnetic fields; however, field effects on CE-sensitive imaging have not yet been studied well in vivo. We have compared CE-sensitive Z-spectra and maps obtained at the fields of 9.4 T and 15.2 T in phantoms and rats with off-resonance chemical-exchange-sensitive spin lock (CESL), which is similar to conventional chemical exchange saturation transfer. At higher fields, the background peak at water resonance has less spread and the exchange rate relative to chemical shift decreases, thus CESL intensity is dependent on B 0 . For the in vivo amide and nuclear Overhauser enhancement (NOE) composite resonances of rat brains, intensities were similar for both magnetic fields, but effective amide proton transfer and NOE values obtained with three-point quantification or a curve fitting method were larger at 15.2 T due to the reduced spread of attenuation at the direct water resonance. When using intermediate exchange-sensitive irradiation parameters, the amine proton signal was 65% higher at 15.2 T than at 9.4 T due to a reduced ratio of exchange rate to chemical shift. In summary, increasing magnetic field provides enhancements to CE-sensitive signals in the intermediate exchange regime and reduces contamination from background signals in the slow exchange regime. Consequently, ultrahigh magnetic field is advantageous for CE-sensitive MRI, especially for amine and hydroxyl protons. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Is magnetic resonance spectroscopy capable of detecting metabolic abnormalities in neurofibromatosis type 1 that are not revealed in brain parenchyma of normal appearance?

PubMed

Rodrigues, Antonio Carlos Pondé; Ferraz-Filho, José Roberto Lopes; Torres, Ulysses S; da Rocha, Antônio José; Muniz, Marcos Pontes; Souza, Antônio Soares; Goloni-Bertollo, Eny Maria; Pavarino, Érika Cristina

2015-03-01

Results of magnetic resonance spectroscopy studies in normal-appearing brain and in non-neoplastic brain lesions in individuals with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) have been discrepant. We used magnetic resonance spectroscopy to analyze the metabolic patterns in the basal ganglia of patients with NF1 and examine their correlation with focal hyperintense lesions in T2-weighted images (T2-weighted hyperintensities). We used magnetic resonance spectroscopy data of 42 individuals with NF1 (18 with and 24 without T2- weighted hyperintensities) and 25 controls matched for gender and age. A single-voxel technique was employed by manually placing a region of interest with a uniform size over a predetermined anatomical region including the globus pallidum and putamen (capsulolenticular region). We further analyzed the ratios of choline/creatine, N-acetyl aspartate (NAA)/creatine, and myoinositol/creatine metabolites and the occurrence of T2-weighted hyperintensities in these regions in individuals with NF1. There was a significant difference between the NF1 and control groups with regard to the mean values of myoinositol/creatine and choline/creatine, with higher metabolite values observed in the NF1 group (P < 0.001). Only the myoinositol/creatine ratio was able to discriminate between NF1 subgroups with and without T2-weighted hyperintensities. For the NAA/creatine ratio, there was no significant difference between the NF1 and the control groups. Magnetic resonance spectroscopy allows the characterization of tissue abnormalities not demonstrable in the structural images of individuals with NF1 through choline and myoinositol metabolite analysis. Yet the preserved NAA values argue against demyelination and axonal degeneration occurring in the region, suggesting instead a functional neuronal stability. Taken in association with the findings of lack of clinical manifestations and the known transient nature of T2-weighted hyperintensities in NF1 as demonstrated by other studies, our results support the current histopathologically driven hypothesis that such T2-weighted hyperintensities may be related to intramyelinic edema. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Antioxidant capacity, fatty acids profile, and descriptive sensory analysis of table olives as affected by deficit irrigation.

PubMed

Cano-Lamadrid, Marina; Hernández, Francisca; Corell, Mireia; Burló, Francisco; Legua, Pilar; Moriana, Alfonso; Carbonell-Barrachina, Ángel A

2017-01-01

The influence of three irrigation treatments (T0, no stress; T1, soft stress; and, T2, moderate stress) on the key functional properties [fatty acids, sugar alcohols, organic acids, minerals, total polyphenols content (TPC), and antioxidant activity (AA)], sensory quality, and consumers' acceptance of table olives, cv. 'Manzanilla', was evaluated. A soft water stress, T1, led to table olives with the highest oil and dry matter contents, with the highest intensities of key sensory attributes and slightly, although not significant, higher values of consumer satisfaction degree. Besides, RDI in general (T1 and T2) slightly increased green colour, the content of linoleic acid, but decreased the content of phytic acid and some minerals. The soft RDI conditions are a good option for the cultivation of olive trees because they are environmentally friendly and simultaneously maintain or even improve the functionality, sensory quality, and consumer acceptance of table olives. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry.

Improved predictive ability of climate-human-behaviour interactions with modifications to the COMFA outdoor energy budget model.

PubMed

Vanos, J K; Warland, J S; Gillespie, T J; Kenny, N A

2012-11-01

The purpose of this paper is to implement current and novel research techniques in human energy budget estimations to give more accurate and efficient application of models by a variety of users. Using the COMFA model, the conditioning level of an individual is incorporated into overall energy budget predictions, giving more realistic estimations of the metabolism experienced at various fitness levels. Through the use of VO(2) reserve estimates, errors are found when an elite athlete is modelled as an unconditioned or a conditioned individual, giving budgets underpredicted significantly by -173 and -123 W m(-2), respectively. Such underprediction can result in critical errors regarding heat stress, particularly in highly motivated individuals; thus this revision is critical for athletic individuals. A further improvement in the COMFA model involves improved adaptation of clothing insulation (I (cl)), as well clothing non-uniformity, with changing air temperature (T (a)) and metabolic activity (M (act)). Equivalent T (a) values (for I (cl) estimation) are calculated in order to lower the I (cl) value with increasing M (act) at equal T (a). Furthermore, threshold T (a) values are calculated to predict the point at which an individual will change from a uniform I (cl) to a segmented I (cl) (full ensemble to shorts and a T-shirt). Lastly, improved relative velocity (v (r)) estimates were found with a refined equation accounting for the degree angle of wind to body movement. Differences between the original and improved v (r) equations increased with higher wind and activity speeds, and as the wind to body angle moved away from 90°. Under moderate microclimate conditions, and wind from behind a person, the convective heat loss and skin temperature estimates were 47 W m(-2) and 1.7°C higher when using the improved v (r) equation. These model revisions improve the applicability and usability of the COMFA energy budget model for subjects performing physical activity in outdoor environments. Application is possible for other similar energy budget models, and within various urban and rural environments.

Improved predictive ability of climate-human-behaviour interactions with modifications to the COMFA outdoor energy budget model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vanos, J. K.; Warland, J. S.; Gillespie, T. J.; Kenny, N. A.

2012-11-01

The purpose of this paper is to implement current and novel research techniques in human energy budget estimations to give more accurate and efficient application of models by a variety of users. Using the COMFA model, the conditioning level of an individual is incorporated into overall energy budget predictions, giving more realistic estimations of the metabolism experienced at various fitness levels. Through the use of VO2 reserve estimates, errors are found when an elite athlete is modelled as an unconditioned or a conditioned individual, giving budgets underpredicted significantly by -173 and -123 W m-2, respectively. Such underprediction can result in critical errors regarding heat stress, particularly in highly motivated individuals; thus this revision is critical for athletic individuals. A further improvement in the COMFA model involves improved adaptation of clothing insulation ( I cl), as well clothing non-uniformity, with changing air temperature ( T a) and metabolic activity ( M act). Equivalent T a values (for I cl estimation) are calculated in order to lower the I cl value with increasing M act at equal T a. Furthermore, threshold T a values are calculated to predict the point at which an individual will change from a uniform I cl to a segmented I cl (full ensemble to shorts and a T-shirt). Lastly, improved relative velocity ( v r) estimates were found with a refined equation accounting for the degree angle of wind to body movement. Differences between the original and improved v r equations increased with higher wind and activity speeds, and as the wind to body angle moved away from 90°. Under moderate microclimate conditions, and wind from behind a person, the convective heat loss and skin temperature estimates were 47 W m-2 and 1.7°C higher when using the improved v r equation. These model revisions improve the applicability and usability of the COMFA energy budget model for subjects performing physical activity in outdoor environments. Application is possible for other similar energy budget models, and within various urban and rural environments.

Polymorphisms of the bovine MC3R gene and their associations with body measurement traits and meat quality traits in Qinchuan cattle.

PubMed

Yang, W-C; Wang, Y-N; Cui, A; Zan, L-S

2015-10-05

The melanocortin 3 receptor (MC3R) gene, which belongs to the rhodopsin-like family A of the G protein-coupled receptor family, plays a crucial role in feed efficiency and energy homeostasis. The aim of this study was to examine associations between bovine MC3R gene polymorphisms and body measurement traits (BMTs) and meat quality traits (MQTs). We identified three synonymous mutations (T429C, T537C, and T663C) in exon 1 of the MC3R gene in Chinese Qinchuan beef cattle (N = 271) by sequencing. D' and r(2) values revealed that these three SNPs were in strong linkage disequilibrium (LD) (r(2) > 0.33); the T429C and T537C SNPs were in complete LD (D' = 1 and r(2) = 1). Association analyses revealed that the SNPs were significantly associated with BMTs and MQTs in Qinchuan cattle. Individuals with the wild homozygotic genotypes g.TTTT and g.TT had significantly higher values of chest depth, heart girth, back fat thickness, intramuscular fat content, and loin muscle area than the mutant heterozygotic genotypes g.TCTC and g.TC. These results suggest that the MC3R gene affects MQTs in Qinchuan cattle, and that it may be a good candidate gene for marker-assisted selection.

Proximal pulmonary vein stenosis detection in pediatric patients: value of multiplanar and 3-D VR imaging evaluation.

PubMed

Lee, Edward Y; Jenkins, Kathy J; Muneeb, Muhammad; Marshall, Audrey C; Tracy, Donald A; Zurakowski, David; Boiselle, Phillip M

2013-08-01

One of the important benefits of using multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) is its capability to generate high-quality two-dimensional (2-D) multiplanar (MPR) and three-dimensional (3-D) images from volumetric and isotropic axial CT data. However, to the best of our knowledge, no results have been published on the potential diagnostic role of multiplanar and 3-D volume-rendered (VR) images in detecting pulmonary vein stenosis, a condition in which MDCT has recently assumed a role as the initial noninvasive imaging modality of choice. The purpose of this study was to compare diagnostic accuracy and interpretation time of axial, multiplanar and 3-D VR images for detection of proximal pulmonary vein stenosis in children, and to assess the potential added diagnostic value of multiplanar and 3-D VR images. We used our hospital information system to identify all consecutive children (< 18 years of age) with proximal pulmonary vein stenosis who had both a thoracic MDCT angiography study and a catheter-based conventional angiography within 2 months from June 2005 to February 2012. Two experienced pediatric radiologists independently reviewed each MDCT study for the presence of proximal pulmonary vein stenosis defined as ≥ 50% of luminal narrowing on axial, multiplanar and 3-D VR images. Final diagnosis was confirmed by angiographic findings. Diagnostic accuracy was compared using the z-test. Confidence level of diagnosis (scale 1-5, 5 = highest), perceived added diagnostic value (scale 1-5, 5 = highest), and interpretation time of multiplanar or 3-D VR images were compared using paired t-tests. Interobserver agreement was measured using the chance-corrected kappa coefficient. The final study population consisted of 28 children (15 boys and 13 girls; mean age: 5.2 months). Diagnostic accuracy based on 116 individual pulmonary veins for detection of proximal pulmonary vein stenosis was 72.4% (84 of 116) for axial MDCT images, 77.5% (90 of 116 cases) for multiplanar MDCT images, and 93% (108 of 116 cases) for 3-D VR images with significantly higher accuracy with 3-D VR compared to axial (z = 4.17, P < 0.001) and multiplanar (z = 3.34, P < 0.001) images. Confidence levels for detection of proximal pulmonary vein stenosis were significantly higher with 3-D VR images (mean level: 4.6) compared to axial MDCT images (mean level: 1.7) and multiplanar MDCT images (mean level: 2.0) (paired t-tests, P < 0.001). Thus, 3-D VR images (mean added diagnostic value: 4.7) were found to provide added diagnostic value for detecting proximal pulmonary vein stenosis (paired t-test, P < 0.001); however, multiplanar MDCT images did not provide added value (paired t-test, P = 0.89). Interpretation time was significantly longer and interobserver agreement was higher when using 3-D VR images than using axial MDCT images or MPR MDCT images for diagnosing proximal pulmonary vein stenosis (paired t-tests, P < 0.001). Use of 3-D VR images in the diagnosis of proximal pulmonary vein stenosis in children significantly increases accuracy, confidence level, added diagnostic value and interobserver agreement. Thus, the routine use of this technique should be encouraged despite its increased interpretation time.

Non-local thermodynamic equilibrium 1.5D modeling of red giant stars

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

Young, Mitchell E.; Short, C. Ian, E-mail: myoung@ap.smu.ca

Spectra for two-dimensional (2D) stars in the 1.5D approximation are created from synthetic spectra of one-dimensional (1D) non-local thermodynamic equilibrium (NLTE) spherical model atmospheres produced by the PHOENIX code. The 1.5D stars have the spatially averaged Rayleigh-Jeans flux of a K3-4 III star while varying the temperature difference between the two 1D component models (ΔT {sub 1.5D}) and the relative surface area covered. Synthetic observable quantities from the 1.5D stars are fitted with quantities from NLTE and local thermodynamic equilibrium (LTE) 1D models to assess the errors in inferred T {sub eff} values from assuming horizontal homogeneity and LTE. Fivemore » different quantities are fit to determine the T {sub eff} of the 1.5D stars: UBVRI photometric colors, absolute surface flux spectral energy distributions (SEDs), relative SEDs, continuum normalized spectra, and TiO band profiles. In all cases except the TiO band profiles, the inferred T {sub eff} value increases with increasing ΔT {sub 1.5D}. In all cases, the inferred T {sub eff} value from fitting 1D LTE quantities is higher than from fitting 1D NLTE quantities and is approximately constant as a function of ΔT {sub 1.5D} within each case. The difference between LTE and NLTE for the TiO bands is caused indirectly by the NLTE temperature structure of the upper atmosphere, as the bands are computed in LTE. We conclude that the difference between T {sub eff} values derived from NLTE and LTE modeling is relatively insensitive to the degree of the horizontal inhomogeneity of the star being modeled and largely depends on the observable quantity being fit.« less

Taraxacum officinale and Urtica dioica extracts inhibit dengue virus serotype 2 replication in vitro.

PubMed

Flores-Ocelotl, María R; Rosas-Murrieta, Nora H; Moreno, Diego A; Vallejo-Ruiz, Verónica; Reyes-Leyva, Julio; Domínguez, Fabiola; Santos-López, Gerardo

2018-03-16

Urtica dioica, Taraxacum officinale, Calea integrifolia and Caesalpinia pulcherrima are widely used all over the world for treatment of different illnesses. In Mexico, these plants are traditionally used to alleviate or counteract rheumatism and inflammatory muscle diseases. In the present study we evaluated the activity of aqueous and methanolic extracts of these four plants, on the replication of dengue virus serotype 2 (DENV2). Extraction process was carried out in a Soxtherm® system at 60, 85 and 120 °C; a chemical fractionation in silica gel chromatography was performed and compounds present in the active fractions were identified by HPLC-DAD-ESI/MSn. The cytotoxic concentration and the inhibitory effect of extracts or fractions on the DENV2 replication were analyzed in the BHK-21 cell line (plaque forming assay). The half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC 50 ) and the selectivity index (SI) were calculated for the extracts and fractions. The methanolic extracts at 60 °C of T. officinale and U. dioica showed the higher inhibitory effects on DENV2 replication. After the chemical fractionation, the higher activity fraction was found for U. dioica and T. officinale, presenting IC 50 values of 165.7 ± 3.85 and 126.1 ± 2.80 μg/ml, respectively; SI values were 5.59 and 6.01 for each fraction. The compounds present in T. officinale, were luteolin and caffeoylquinic acids derivatives and quercertin diclycosides. The compounds in the active fraction of U. dioica, were, chlorogenic acid, quercertin derivatives and flavonol glycosides (quercetin and kaempferol). Two fractions from U. dioica and T. officinale methanolic extracts with anti-dengue activity were found. The compounds present in both fractions were identified, several recognized molecules have demonstrated activity against other viral species. Subsequent biological analysis of the molecules, alone or in combination, contained in the extracts will be carried out to develop therapeutics against DENV2.

Development of a thick GdBCO and ZrO 2-doped GdBCO film with a high critical current on a PLD-CeO 2/IBAD-GZO metal substrate

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kinoshita, A.; Takahashi, K.; Kobayashi, H.; Yamada, Y.; Ibi, A.; Fukushima, H.; Konishi, M.; Miyata, S.; Shiohara, Y.; Kato, T.; Hirayama, T.

2007-10-01

In order to obtain a high critical current, Ic, we have fabricated a thick GdBa2Cu3O7-x (GdBCO) film by the pulsed laser deposition (PLD) method on a PLD-CeO2/ion-beam assisted deposition (IBAD)-Gd2Zr2O7 (GZO)/hastelloy metal substrate. The film of a 3.6 μm thickness exhibited the highest critical current of 522 A/cm at self-field and at 77 K. It was found that a low volume fraction of a-axis oriented grains was obtained in the thick GdBCO films, compared to YBa2Cu3O7-x (YBCO) films. The GdBCO films showed a higher critical current density (Jc), than YBCO films in all thicknesses from 0.2 to 3.6 μm. Furthermore, we have improved Ic in a magnetic field by the introduction of artificial pinning centers using a 5 mol% ZrO2-doped GdBCO target. In the measurement of angular dependence of Ic, which was much improved at 0°, the magnetic field was parallel to the c-axis. The Ic value at 3 T was 59.5 A/cm at 0° and showed a minimum of 42.3 A/cm at 82° for the film of a 2.3 μm thickness. The minimum value at 3 T in angular dependence of Ic was about five times higher than that of the YBCO film and two times higher than that of pure the GdBCO film.

[Parametrial infiltration of cervix carcinoma: diagnostic value of contrast-enhanced fat-suppressed T1-weighted SE sequences at 1.5 tesla].

PubMed

Scheidler, J; Heuck, A; Wencke, K; Kimmig, R; Müller-Lisse, U; Reiser, M

1997-04-01

To determine whether contrast-enhanced and fat-suppressed sequences contribute to the MR imaging diagnosis of parametrial invasion. 21 patients with carcinoma of the cervix were prospectively examined with a phased-array coil and a 1.5T MR-scanner using the following sequences: transverse T2-weighted turbo spin echo (T2-TSE), T1-weighted spin echo (T1-SE) and fat suppressed T1-weighted SE sequences before and after Gd-DTPA. The sequences were evaluated separately for the presence of parametrial invasion. Image quality and diagnostic confidence were classified on a scale of 0-10 (nondiagnostic-excellent). Findings were compared to the results of the pathohistological examination. Sensitivity, specificity and diagnostic accuracy were highest for T2-TSE sequences (100%, 79% and 86%, respectively). Contrast-enhanced T1-SE sequences with fat-suppression (71%, 79%, and 76%) showed no improvement compared to T2-TSE. Unenhanced fat-suppressed T1-SE (100%, 30%, and 56%) and unenhanced T1-SE (100%, 7%, and 38%) as well as contrast-enhanced T1-SE (86%, 20%, and 47%) were significantly worse than T2-TSE. With similar image quality (p < 0.05) diagnostic confidence was higher on T2-TSE than on any of the other sequences (p < 0.001). Considering the cost-effectiveness of the examination, for the MR diagnosis of parametrial invasion the use of fat-suppressed contrast-enhanced sequences can be abandoned in favour of T2-weighted TSE sequences.

Relativistic equipartition via a massive damped sliding partition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Crawford, Frank S.

1993-04-01

A cylinder partitioned by a massive sliding slab undergoing nonrelativistic damped one-dimensional (1D) motion under bombardment from the left (i=1) and right (i=2) by particles having rest mass mi, speed vi, relativistic momentum (magnitude) pi, and (let c≡1) total energy Ei=(pi2+mi2)1/2 is considered herein. The damped slab of mass M transforms the system from its initial pi distributions (i=1,2) to a state, first, of pressure (P) equilibrium with P1=P2, but temperature T1≠T2, then, to P-T equilibrium with P1=P2 and T1=T2, given by the (1D) ``first moment'' equipartition relation (κ is Boltzmann's constant),

Life cycle impact assessment of ammonia production in Algeria: A comparison with previous studies

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

Makhlouf, Ali, E-mail: almakhsme@gmail.com; Serradj, Tayeb; Cheniti, Hamza

In this paper, a Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) from “cradle to gate” of one anhydrous ton of ammonia with a purity of 99% was achieved. Particularly, the energy and environmental performance of the product (ammonia) were evaluated. The eco-profile of the product and the share of each stage of the Life Cycle on the whole environmental impacts have been evaluated. The flows of material and energy for each phase of the life cycle were counted and the associated environmental problems were identified. Evaluation of the impact was achieved using GEMIS 4.7 software. The primary data collection was executed at themore » production installations located in Algeria (Annaba locality). The analysis was conducted according to the LCA standards ISO 14040 series. The results show that Cumulative Energy Requirement (CER) is of 51.945 × 10{sup 3} MJ/t of ammonia, which is higher than the global average. Global Warming Potential (GWP) is of 1.44 t CO{sub 2} eq/t of ammonia; this value is lower than the world average. Tropospheric ozone precursor and Acidification are also studied in this article, their values are: 549.3 × 10{sup −6} t NMVOC eq and 259.3 × 10{sup −6} t SO{sub 2} eq respectively.« less

Fracture strength of zirconia implant abutments on narrow diameter implants with internal and external implant abutment connections: A study on the titanium resin base concept.

PubMed

Sailer, Irena; Asgeirsson, Asgeir G; Thoma, Daniel S; Fehmer, Vincent; Aspelund, Thor; Özcan, Mutlu; Pjetursson, Bjarni E

2018-04-01

There is limited knowledge regarding the strength of zirconia abutments with internal and external implant abutment connections and zirconia abutments supported by a titanium resin base (Variobase, Straumann) for narrow diameter implants. To compare the fracture strength of narrow diameter abutments with different types of implant abutment connections after chewing simulation. Hundred and twenty identical customized abutments with different materials and implant abutment connections were fabricated for five groups: 1-piece zirconia abutment with internal connection (T1, Cares-abutment-Straumann BL-NC implant, Straumann Switzerland), 1-piece zirconia abutment with external hex connection (T2, Procera abutment-Branemark NP implant, Nobel Biocare, Sweden), 2-piece zirconia abutments with metallic insert for internal connection (T3, Procera abutment-Replace NP implant, Nobel Biocare), 2-piece zirconia abutment on titanium resin base (T4, LavaPlus abutment-VarioBase-Straumann BL-NC implant, 3M ESPE, Germany) and 1-piece titanium abutment with internal connection (C, Cares-abutment-Straumann BL-NC implant, Straumann, Switzerland). All implants had a narrow diameter ranging from 3.3 to 3.5 mm. Sixty un-restored abutments and 60 abutments restored with glass-ceramic crowns were tested. Mean bending moments were compared using ANOVA with p-values adjusted for multiple comparisons using Tukey's procedure. The mean bending moments were 521 ± 33 Ncm (T4), 404 ± 36 Ncm (C), 311 ± 106 Ncm (T1) 265 ± 22 Ncm (T3) and 225 ± 29 (T2) for un-restored abutments and 278 ± 84 Ncm (T4), 302 ± 170 Ncm (C), 190 ± 55 Ncm (T1) 80 ± 102 Ncm (T3) and 125 ± 57 (T2) for restored abutments. For un-restored abutments, C and T4 had similar mean bending moments, significantly higher than those of the three other groups (p < .05). Titanium abutments (C) had significantly higher bending moments than identical zirconia abutments (T1) (p < .05). Zirconia abutments (T1) with internal connection had higher bending moments than zirconia abutments with external connection (T2) (p < .05). For all test groups, the bending moments were significantly reduced when restored with all-ceramic crowns. For narrow diameter abutments, the fracture strength of 2-piece internal connected zirconia abutments fixed on titanium resin bases was similar to those obtained for 1-piece titanium abutments. Narrow diameter zirconia abutments with internal connection exhibited higher fracture strength than zirconia abutments with an external connection. Titanium abutments with an internal connection were significantly stronger than identical zirconia abutments. © 2018 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Glucose-dependent leukocyte activation in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, familial combined hyperlipidemia and healthy controls.

PubMed

de Vries, Marijke A; Alipour, Arash; Klop, Boudewijn; van de Geijn, Gert-Jan M; Janssen, Hans W; Njo, Tjin L; van der Meulen, Noëlle; Rietveld, Arie P; Liem, Anho H; Westerman, Elsbeth M; de Herder, Wouter W; Cabezas, Manuel Castro

2015-02-01

Leukocyte activation has been associated with vascular complications in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Hyperglycemia may be involved in this leukocyte activation. Our aim was to investigate the role of elevated glucose concentrations on leukocyte activation in patients with a wide range of insulin sensitivity. Leukocyte activation was determined after ingestion of 75 gram glucose in subjects with T2DM, familial combined hyperlipidemia (FCH) and healthy controls. Leukocyte activation markers were measured by flow cytometry. Postprandial changes were calculated as the area under the curve (AUC), and the incremental area under the curve corrected for baseline values (dAUC). 51 Subjects (20 T2DM, 17 FCH and 14 controls) were included. Fasting neutrophil CD66b expression and CD66b-AUC were respectively 36% and 39% higher in T2DM patients than in controls (p=0.004 and p=0.003). Fasting neutrophil CD66b expression correlated positively with glucose-AUC (Spearman's rho 0.481, p<0.001) and HbA1c (rho 0.433, p=0.002). Although fasting monocyte CD11b expression was not significantly different between subjects, monocyte CD11b-AUC was 26% higher in T2DM than in controls (p=0.006). Similar trends were observed for FCH patients. Monocyte CD11b-dAUC correlated positively with glucose-AUC (rho 0.322, p=0.022) and HbA1c (rho 0.319, p=0.023). These data suggest that both acute and chronic hyperglycemia, associated with insulin resistance as seen in T2DM and FCH, are involved in the increased fasting and postprandial leukocyte activation observed in these conditions. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The impact of stunning methods on stress conditions and quality of silver carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix) fillets stored at 4°C during 72h postmortem.

PubMed

Zhang, Longteng; Li, Qian; Lyu, Jian; Kong, Chunli; Song, Sijia; Luo, Yongkang

2017-02-01

This study aimed to evaluate different stunning methods [percussion (T1), immersion in ice/water slurry (T2), and gill cut (T3)] on quality and stress conditions of silver carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix) fillets stored at 4°C in 72h postmortem. Rigor index (RI%), behavioral analysis, levels of lactic acid and muscle glycogen were measured for stress level evaluation. Meanwhile, sensory assessment, texture properties, cooking loss, adenosine triphosphate (ATP) related compounds, adenosine monophosphate deaminase (ADA) activity, and acid phosphatase (ACP) activity were analyzed. The least stress condition, significantly (P<0.05) higher initial glycogen content was observed in T1. Ice/water stunning reduced the rate of ATP degradation, reflected in the lowest K value during 72h. Aversive behaviors, significantly (P<0.05) higher cooking loss, hypoxanthine riboside (HxR) content, and lower sensory score were observed in T3. The results indicated that gill cut in aquatic processing industry should be avoided for inferior quality and aversive reactions during stunning. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Activity of xanthine oxidase in plasma correlates with indices of insulin resistance and liver dysfunction in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and metabolic syndrome: A pilot exploratory study.

PubMed

Sunagawa, Sumito; Shirakura, Takashi; Hokama, Noboru; Kozuka, Chisayo; Yonamine, Masato; Namba, Toyotaka; Morishima, Satoko; Nakachi, Sawako; Nishi, Yukiko; Ikema, Tomomi; Okamoto, Shiki; Matsui, Chieko; Hase, Naoki; Tamura, Mizuho; Shimabukuro, Michio; Masuzaki, Hiroaki

2018-06-03

There is a controversy whether hyperuricemia is an independent risk for cardiometabolic diseases. Serum level of uric acid is affected by a wide variety of factors involved in its production and excretion. On the other hand, evidence has accumulated that locally and systemically activated xanthine oxidase (XO), a rate limiting enzyme for production of uric acid, is linked to metabolic derangement in humans and rodents. We therefore explored the clinical implication of plasma XO activity in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and metabolic syndrome (MetS). We enrolled 60 patients with T2DM and MetS. MetS was defined according to the 2005 International Diabetes Federation guidelines. Plasma XO activity was measured by highly sensitive fluorometric assay measuring the conversion of pterin to isoxanthopterin, and explored associations between the value of plasma XO activity and metabolic parameters. Value of plasma XO activity was correlated with indices of insulin resistance and level of circulating liver transaminases. On the other hand, level of serum uric acid was not correlated with indices of insulin resistance. The value of plasma XO activity was not correlated with serum uric acid level. Plasma XO activity correlates with indices of insulin resistance and liver dysfunction in Japanese patients with T2DM and MetS. Through assessing the plasma XO activity, patients demonstrating normal level of serum uric acid with higher activity of XO can be screened, thereby possibly providing a clue to uncover metabolic risks in T2DM and MetS. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Can Fetuin-A Be a Marker for Insulin Resistance and Poor Glycemic Control in Children with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus?

PubMed

Şiraz, Ülkü Gül; Doğan, Murat; Hatipoğlu, Nihal; Muhtaroğlu, Sabahattin; Kurtoğlu, Selim

2017-12-15

Metabolic impairment in type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) with poor glycemic control causes insulin resistance, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), atherosclerosis, and increased carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT). Fetuin-A has a protective effect in cardiovascular disorders and is increased in hepatosteatosis. We aimed to investigate the reliability of fetuin-A levels in early detection of diabetic complications in children with T1DM and to identify a cut-off value that may show poor metabolic control. The study included 80 patients who had T1DM for at least 5 years and who had no chronic complications or an auto-immune disorder. Blood samples were drawn to measure hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), biochemical parameters, and fetuin-A levels. Anthropometric parameters were also measured. Percent body fat was calculated. Hepatosteatosis and CIMT were assessed by sonography. Mean age of the patients was 13.5 years. Grade 1 hepatosteatosis was detected in 10%. Patients were stratified into 2 groups based on presence of NAFLD. Fetuin-A level was increased in patients with NAFLD. We identified a fetuin-A cut-off value (514.28 ng/mL; sensitivity: 47.34; specificity: 96.72) that may predict NAFLD. HbA1c and total cholesterol levels were found to be higher in patients with fetuin-A levels above higher the cut-off value. Fetuin-A is a reliable parameter in the prediction of complications and poor glycemic control in patients with T1DM.