The Role of Genome Accessibility in Transcription Factor Binding in Bacteria.

PubMed

Gomes, Antonio L C; Wang, Harris H

2016-04-01

ChIP-seq enables genome-scale identification of regulatory regions that govern gene expression. However, the biological insights generated from ChIP-seq analysis have been limited to predictions of binding sites and cooperative interactions. Furthermore, ChIP-seq data often poorly correlate with in vitro measurements or predicted motifs, highlighting that binding affinity alone is insufficient to explain transcription factor (TF)-binding in vivo. One possibility is that binding sites are not equally accessible across the genome. A more comprehensive biophysical representation of TF-binding is required to improve our ability to understand, predict, and alter gene expression. Here, we show that genome accessibility is a key parameter that impacts TF-binding in bacteria. We developed a thermodynamic model that parameterizes ChIP-seq coverage in terms of genome accessibility and binding affinity. The role of genome accessibility is validated using a large-scale ChIP-seq dataset of the M. tuberculosis regulatory network. We find that accounting for genome accessibility led to a model that explains 63% of the ChIP-seq profile variance, while a model based in motif score alone explains only 35% of the variance. Moreover, our framework enables de novo ChIP-seq peak prediction and is useful for inferring TF-binding peaks in new experimental conditions by reducing the need for additional experiments. We observe that the genome is more accessible in intergenic regions, and that increased accessibility is positively correlated with gene expression and anti-correlated with distance to the origin of replication. Our biophysically motivated model provides a more comprehensive description of TF-binding in vivo from first principles towards a better representation of gene regulation in silico, with promising applications in systems biology.

Modeling impacts of human footprint and soil variability on the potential distribution of invasive plant species in different biomes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wan, Ji-Zhong; Wang, Chun-Jing; Yu, Fei-Hai

2017-11-01

Human footprint and soil variability may be important in shaping the spread of invasive plant species (IPS). However, until now, there is little knowledge on how human footprint and soil variability affect the potential distribution of IPS in different biomes. We used Maxent modeling to project the potential distribution of 29 IPS with wide distributions and long introduction histories in China based on various combinations of climatic correlates, soil characteristics and human footprint. Then, we evaluated the relative importance of each type of environmental variables (climate, soil and human footprint) as well as the difference in range and similarity of the potential distribution of IPS between different biomes. Human footprint and soil variables contributed to the prediction of the potential distribution of IPS, and different types of biomes had varying responses and degrees of impacts from the tested variables. Human footprint and soil variability had the highest tendency to increase the potential distribution of IPS in Montane Grasslands and Shrublands. We propose to integrate the assessment in impacts of human footprint and soil variability on the potential distribution of IPS in different biomes into the prevention and control of plant invasion.

Oxidative stress in blood and testicle of rat following intraperitoneal administration of aluminum and indium.

PubMed

Maghraoui, S; Clichici, Simona; Ayadi, A; Login, C; Moldovan, R; Daicoviciu, D; Decea, N; Mureşan, A; Tekaya, L

2014-03-01

Aluminum (Al) and indium (In) have embryotoxic, neurotoxic and genotoxic effects, oxidative stress being one of the possible mechanisms involved in their cytotoxicity. We have recently demonstrated that indium intraperitoneal (ip) administration induced histological disorganization of testicular tissue. In the present research we aimed at investigating the effect of Al and In ip administration on systemic and testicular oxidative stress status. Studies were performed on Wistar rats ip injected with Al, In or physiological solution for two weeks. Our results showed that In significantly decreased the absolute weight of testicles. Measurements of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and paraoxonase (PON) activities showed that In induced a significant augmentation in the first parameter but no changes were observed in the second. Both Al and In caused oxidative stress in testicles by increasing malondialdehyde (MDA) and protein carbonyls (PC) production. Concomitantly, thiol group (-SH) and glutathione (GSH) level were enhanced in the testicles. In the blood, while concentrations of MDA was not changed, those of GSH was significantly decreased in the Al and In groups. Our results indicated that Al and In cause oxidative stress both in blood and testicles but In has cytotoxic effect as well as negative impact on testicle weights. These findings could explain the testicular histological alterations previously described after In ip administration.

14 CFR Appendix A to Part 420 - Method for Defining a Flight Corridor

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... impact range factor [IP(Hap)] and a dispersion factor [DISP(Hap)] as shown below: (A) An applicant shall... maximum apogee altitude (Hap) multiplied by the impact range factor as shown below: ER19OC00.048 where: IP(Hap) = 0.4 for an apogee less than 100 km; and IP(Hap) = 0.7 for an apogee 100 km or greater. (B) An...

14 CFR Appendix A to Part 420 - Method for Defining a Flight Corridor

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... impact range factor [IP(Hap)] and a dispersion factor [DISP(Hap)] as shown below: (A) An applicant shall... maximum apogee altitude (Hap) multiplied by the impact range factor as shown below: ER19OC00.048 where: IP(Hap) = 0.4 for an apogee less than 100 km; and IP(Hap) = 0.7 for an apogee 100 km or greater. (B) An...

Impact of applying the more stringent validation criteria of the revised European Society of Hypertension International Protocol 2010 on earlier validation studies.

PubMed

Stergiou, George S; Karpettas, Nikos; Atkins, Neil; O'Brien, Eoin

2011-04-01

Since 2002 when the European Society of Hypertension International Protocol (ESH-IP) was published it has become the preferred protocol for validating blood pressure monitors worldwide. In 2010, a revised version of the ESH-IP with more stringent criteria was published. This study assesses the impact of applying the revised ESH-IP criteria. A systematic literature review of ESH-IP studies reported between 2002 and 2010 was conducted. The impact of applying the ESH-IP 2010 criteria retrospectively on the data reported in these studies was investigated. The performance of the oscillometric devices in the last decade was also investigated on the basis of the ESH-IP criteria. Among 119 published studies, 112 with sufficient data were analyzed. According to ESH-IP 2002, the test device failed in 19 studies, whereas by applying the ESH-IP 2010 criteria in 28 additional studies increased the failure rate from 17 to 42%. Of these 28 studies, in 20 (71%) the test device failed at part 1 (accuracy per measurement) and in 22 (79%) at part 2 (accuracy per subject). Most of the failures involved the '5 mmHg or less' criterion. In the last decade there has been a consistent trend toward improved performance of oscillometric devices assessed on the basis of the ESH-IP criteria. This retrospective analysis shows that the stricter revised ESH-IP 2010 criteria will noticeably increase the failure rate of devices being validated. Oscillometric devices are becoming more accurate, and the revised ESH-IP by acknowledging this trend will allow more accurate devices to enter the market.

Picking ChIP-seq peak detectors for analyzing chromatin modification experiments

PubMed Central

Micsinai, Mariann; Parisi, Fabio; Strino, Francesco; Asp, Patrik; Dynlacht, Brian D.; Kluger, Yuval

2012-01-01

Numerous algorithms have been developed to analyze ChIP-Seq data. However, the complexity of analyzing diverse patterns of ChIP-Seq signals, especially for epigenetic marks, still calls for the development of new algorithms and objective comparisons of existing methods. We developed Qeseq, an algorithm to detect regions of increased ChIP read density relative to background. Qeseq employs critical novel elements, such as iterative recalibration and neighbor joining of reads to identify enriched regions of any length. To objectively assess its performance relative to other 14 ChIP-Seq peak finders, we designed a novel protocol based on Validation Discriminant Analysis (VDA) to optimally select validation sites and generated two validation datasets, which are the most comprehensive to date for algorithmic benchmarking of key epigenetic marks. In addition, we systematically explored a total of 315 diverse parameter configurations from these algorithms and found that typically optimal parameters in one dataset do not generalize to other datasets. Nevertheless, default parameters show the most stable performance, suggesting that they should be used. This study also provides a reproducible and generalizable methodology for unbiased comparative analysis of high-throughput sequencing tools that can facilitate future algorithmic development. PMID:22307239

Picking ChIP-seq peak detectors for analyzing chromatin modification experiments.

PubMed

Micsinai, Mariann; Parisi, Fabio; Strino, Francesco; Asp, Patrik; Dynlacht, Brian D; Kluger, Yuval

2012-05-01

Numerous algorithms have been developed to analyze ChIP-Seq data. However, the complexity of analyzing diverse patterns of ChIP-Seq signals, especially for epigenetic marks, still calls for the development of new algorithms and objective comparisons of existing methods. We developed Qeseq, an algorithm to detect regions of increased ChIP read density relative to background. Qeseq employs critical novel elements, such as iterative recalibration and neighbor joining of reads to identify enriched regions of any length. To objectively assess its performance relative to other 14 ChIP-Seq peak finders, we designed a novel protocol based on Validation Discriminant Analysis (VDA) to optimally select validation sites and generated two validation datasets, which are the most comprehensive to date for algorithmic benchmarking of key epigenetic marks. In addition, we systematically explored a total of 315 diverse parameter configurations from these algorithms and found that typically optimal parameters in one dataset do not generalize to other datasets. Nevertheless, default parameters show the most stable performance, suggesting that they should be used. This study also provides a reproducible and generalizable methodology for unbiased comparative analysis of high-throughput sequencing tools that can facilitate future algorithmic development.

Parametric analysis of occupant ankle and tibia injuries in frontal impact

PubMed Central

Mo, Fuhao; Jiang, Xiaoqing; Duan, Shuyong; Xiao, Zhi; Shi, Wei

2017-01-01

Objective Non-fatal tibia and ankle injuries without proper protection from the restraint system has gotten wide attention from researchers. This study aimed to investigate occupant tibia and ankle injuries under realistic frontal impact environment that is rarely considered in previous experimental and simulant studies. Methods An integrated occupant-vehicle model was established by coupling an isolated car cab model and a hybrid occupant model with a biofidelic pelvis-lower limb model, while its loading conditions were extracted from the realistic full-frontal impact test. A parametric study was implemented concerning instrument panel (IP) design and pedal intrusion/rotation parameters. Results The significant influences of the IP angle, pedal intrusion and pedal rotation on tibia axial force, tibia bending moment and ankle dorsiflexion angle are noted. By coupling their effects, a new evaluation index named CAIEI (Combined Ankle Injury Evaluation Index) is established to evaluate ankle injury (including tibia fractures in ankle region) risk and severity in robustness. Conclusions Overall results and analysis indicate that ankle dorsiflexion angle should be considered when judging the injury in lower limb under frontal impact. Meanwhile, the current index with coupling effects of tibia axial force, bending moment and ankle dorsiflexion angle is in a good correlation with the simulation injury outcomes. PMID:28910377

Event-by-event gluon multiplicity, energy density, and eccentricities in ultrarelativistic heavy-ion collisions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schenke, Björn; Tribedy, Prithwish; Venugopalan, Raju

2012-09-01

The event-by-event multiplicity distribution, the energy densities and energy density weighted eccentricity moments ɛn (up to n=6) at early times in heavy-ion collisions at both the BNL Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider (RHIC) (s=200GeV) and the CERN Large Hardron Collider (LHC) (s=2.76TeV) are computed in the IP-Glasma model. This framework combines the impact parameter dependent saturation model (IP-Sat) for nucleon parton distributions (constrained by HERA deeply inelastic scattering data) with an event-by-event classical Yang-Mills description of early-time gluon fields in heavy-ion collisions. The model produces multiplicity distributions that are convolutions of negative binomial distributions without further assumptions or parameters. In the limit of large dense systems, the n-particle gluon distribution predicted by the Glasma-flux tube model is demonstrated to be nonperturbatively robust. In the general case, the effect of additional geometrical fluctuations is quantified. The eccentricity moments are compared to the MC-KLN model; a noteworthy feature is that fluctuation dominated odd moments are consistently larger than in the MC-KLN model.

ChIP-re-ChIP: Co-occupancy Analysis by Sequential Chromatin Immunoprecipitation.

PubMed

Beischlag, Timothy V; Prefontaine, Gratien G; Hankinson, Oliver

2018-01-01

Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) exploits the specific interactions between DNA and DNA-associated proteins. It can be used to examine a wide range of experimental parameters. A number of proteins bound at the same genomic location can identify a multi-protein chromatin complex where several proteins work together to regulate gene transcription or chromatin configuration. In many instances, this can be achieved using sequential ChIP; or simply, ChIP-re-ChIP. Whether it is for the examination of specific transcriptional or epigenetic regulators, or for the identification of cistromes, the ability to perform a sequential ChIP adds a higher level of power and definition to these analyses. In this chapter, we describe a simple and reliable method for the sequential ChIP assay.

Impacts of dietary calcium, phytate, and nonphytate phosphorus concentrations in the presence or absence of phytase on inositol hexakisphosphate (IP6) degradation in different segments of broilers digestive tract.

PubMed

Li, W; Angel, R; Kim, S-W; Brady, K; Yu, S; Plumstead, P W

2016-03-01

A total of 1,440 straight-run Heritage 56M × fast-feathering Cobb 500F broiler birds were fed from 11 to 13 d of age to determine the impacts of calcium (Ca), phytate phosphorus (PP), nonphytate P (NPP) and phytase concentrations on the myo-inositol hexakisphosphate (IP6) flow through the different parts of gastrointestinal tract (GIT). The experiment was a 2×2×2×3 randomized block design with 2 Ca (0.7 and 1.0%), 2 PP (0.23 and 0.34%), 2 nPP (0.28 and 0.45%) and 3 phytase (0-, 500-, and 1,000-phytase unit (FTU)/kg) concentrations. The experiment was replicated twice (block) with 3 replicates per treatment (TRT) of 10 birds per block. Concentration of IP6 in crop, proventriculus (PROV) plus (+) gizzard (GIZ) and distal ileum digesta as well as the ileal IP6 disappearance was determined at 13 d of age. In crop, higher IP6 concentration was seen with increased Ca (P < 0.05). Despite the interaction between PP and phytase, higher dietary PP led to greater IP6 concentration (P < 0.05). Similar main effects of PP and phytase were also seen in Prov+Giz and ileum (P < 0.05) without interactions. Interaction between Ca and nPP on IP6 concentration was seen in Prov+Giz (P < 0.05). Decreased ileal IP6 disappearance was found at higher Ca (62.3% at 0.7% Ca vs. 57.5% at 1.0% Ca; P < 0.05). In general, adding phytase improved IP6 degradation but the degree of impact was dependent on nPP and PP (P < 0.05). In conclusion, phytase inclusion significantly reduced IP6 concentration and IP6 disappearance in distal ileum regardless of GIT segments or diet composition, but impacts of dietary Ca, nPP, and PP differed depending on GIT segment examined. © The Author 2016. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of Poultry Science Association.

Impacts of dietary calcium, phytate, and nonphytate phosphorus concentrations in the presence or absence of phytase on inositol hexakisphosphate (IP6) degradation in different segments of broilers digestive tract

PubMed Central

Li, W.; Angel, R.; Kim, S.-W.; Brady, K.; Yu, S.; Plumstead, P. W.

2016-01-01

A total of 1,440 straight-run Heritage 56M × fast-feathering Cobb 500F broiler birds were fed from 11 to 13 d of age to determine the impacts of calcium (Ca), phytate phosphorus (PP), nonphytate P (nPP) and phytase concentrations on the myo-inositol hexakisphosphate (IP6) flow through the different parts of gastrointestinal tract (GIT). The experiment was a 2×2×2×3 randomized block design with 2 Ca (0.7 and 1.0%), 2 PP (0.23 and 0.34%), 2 nPP (0.28 and 0.45%) and 3 phytase (0-, 500-, and 1,000-phytase unit (FTU)/kg) concentrations. The experiment was replicated twice (block) with 3 replicates per treatment (Trt) of 10 birds per block. Concentration of IP6 in crop, proventriculus (Prov) plus (+) gizzard (Giz) and distal ileum digesta as well as the ileal IP6 disappearance was determined at 13 d of age. In crop, higher IP6 concentration was seen with increased Ca (P < 0.05). Despite the interaction between PP and phytase, higher dietary PP led to greater IP6 concentration (P < 0.05). Similar main effects of PP and phytase were also seen in Prov+Giz and ileum (P < 0.05) without interactions. Interaction between Ca and nPP on IP6 concentration was seen in Prov+Giz (P < 0.05). Decreased ileal IP6 disappearance was found at higher Ca (62.3% at 0.7% Ca vs. 57.5% at 1.0% Ca; P < 0.05). In general, adding phytase improved IP6 degradation but the degree of impact was dependent on nPP and PP (P < 0.05). In conclusion, phytase inclusion significantly reduced IP6 concentration and IP6 disappearance in distal ileum regardless of GIT segments or diet composition, but impacts of dietary Ca, nPP, and PP differed depending on GIT segment examined. PMID:26740131

78 FR 76189 - Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement for the Route 460 Location Study, Prince George...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-12-16

... Army Individual Permit (IP) Application. The purpose of this SEIS is to evaluate new information... the document as part of its evaluation of the IP application submitted by U.S. Route 460 Mobility... available to the USACE for the proposed project are to issue the IP, issue the IP with special conditions...

Biomonitoring the cooked meat carcinogen 2-amino-1-methyl-6-phenylimidazo[4,5-b]pyridine in hair: impact of exposure, hair pigmentation, and cytochrome P450 1A2 phenotype.

PubMed

Turesky, Robert J; Liu, Lin; Gu, Dan; Yonemori, Kim M; White, Kami K; Wilkens, Lynne R; Le Marchand, Loïc

2013-03-01

Hair is a promising tissue to assess exposure to 2-amino-1-methyl-6-phenylimidazo[4,5-b]pyridine (PhIP), a carcinogen formed in cooked meats. However, an understanding of how dietary exposure to PhIP, cytochrome P450 1A2 activity-a key enzyme involved in PhIP metabolism, and hair pigmentation affect the level of PhIP accrued in hair is required to determine the reliability of the PhIP hair level as a biomarker of exposure to this carcinogen. We examined the impact of PhIP exposure, cytochrome P450 1A2 activity, and hair pigmentation on the levels of PhIP accumulated in the hair of volunteers on a 4-week semicontrolled diet of cooked meat containing known quantities of PhIP. The amount of PhIP in hair increased, on average, 15-fold in light- and dark-haired individuals during consumption of cooked meat. PhIP levels in hair were correlated to PhIP intake (ρ = 0.53; P < 0.001), and the relationship was strengthened when PhIP levels were normalized for the melanin content of hair (ρ = 0.71; P < 0.001). However, PhIP accrual in hair was not correlated to cytochrome P450 1A2 activity, as assessed by the caffeine test, or to the levels of unmetabolized PhIP in urine or to the metabolic ratio of the major urinary metabolite N(2)-(β-1-glucosiduronyl-2-(hydroxyamino)-1-methyl-6-phenylimidazo[4,5-b]pyridine to unmetabolized PhIP. The use of the PhIP hair biomarker should take hair pigmentation into account for accurate exposure assessment of PhIP. PhIP hair levels can serve as a biomarker in epidemiologic studies investigating the association of heterocyclic aromatic amine (HAA), cooked meat, and cancer risk.

Impacts of dietary calcium, phytate, and phytase on inositol hexakisphosphate degradation and inositol phosphate release in different segments of digestive tract of broilers.

PubMed

Li, W; Angel, R; Kim, S-W; Brady, K; Yu, S; Plumstead, P W

2017-10-01

A total of 720 straight-run Heritage 56 M × fast feathering Cobb 500F broiler chickens was fed from 11 to 13 d of age to determine the impacts of dietary calcium (Ca), phytate phosphorus (PP), and phytase concentrations on inositol phosphate (IP3-6) profile in different digestive tract (GI) segments. The experiment was a 2 × 2 × 3 randomized block design with 2 Ca (0.7 and 1.0%) and 2 PP (0.23 and 0.34%) concentrations and 3 doses of Buttiauxella sp. phytase (0, 500, and 1,000 FTU/kg). The experiment was replicated in time (block) with 3 replicates per treatment (Trt) of 10 birds per block. Concentrations of IP3-6 in the crop, proventriculus (Prov) plus (+) gizzard (Giz), and distal ileum, as well as the ileal IP6 and P disappearance were determined at 13 d of age. The detrimental impact of Ca on IP6 and P disappearance was observed only in the ileum, where 11% reduction in both IP6 and P disappearance was seen when Ca increased from 0.7 to 1.0% (P < 0.05). Higher IP5 and IP6 concentrations were seen in both the crop and Prov+Giz at 0.34% PP as compared to birds fed to 0.23% PP diets, regardless of Ca or phytase (P < 0.05), whereas IP3 and IP4 concentrations were not affected by PP (P > 0.05). Inclusion of phytase, at both 500 and 1,000 FTU/kg, resulted in lower IP6 and the accumulation of lower IP ester (IP3-5) concentrations in all GI segments (P < 0.05). Improved IP6 and P disappearance was seen as a result of phytase inclusion, despite the degree of improvement affected by PP (P < 0.05). On average, 5.5 and 6.7 times improvement in IP6 was observed with 500 and 1,000 FTU phytase/kg inclusion, respectively, resulting in 41 and 64% greater P digestibility, respectively. In conclusion, phytase can effectively degrade IP6 to lower esters and increase P utilization. However, the efficacy of phytase can be affected by diet Ca and PP concentrations. © The Author 2017. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of Poultry Science Association.

Impacts of dietary calcium, phytate, and phytase on inositol hexakisphosphate degradation and inositol phosphate release in different segments of digestive tract of broilers

PubMed Central

Li, W.; Angel, R.; Kim, S.-W.; Brady, K.; Yu, S.; Plumstead, P. W.

2017-01-01

Abstract A total of 720 straight-run Heritage 56 M × fast feathering Cobb 500F broiler chickens was fed from 11 to 13 d of age to determine the impacts of dietary calcium (Ca), phytate phosphorus (PP), and phytase concentrations on inositol phosphate (IP3–6) profile in different digestive tract (GI) segments. The experiment was a 2 × 2 × 3 randomized block design with 2 Ca (0.7 and 1.0%) and 2 PP (0.23 and 0.34%) concentrations and 3 doses of Buttiauxella sp. phytase (0, 500, and 1,000 FTU/kg). The experiment was replicated in time (block) with 3 replicates per treatment (Trt) of 10 birds per block. Concentrations of IP3–6 in the crop, proventriculus (Prov) plus (+) gizzard (Giz), and distal ileum, as well as the ileal IP6 and P disappearance were determined at 13 d of age. The detrimental impact of Ca on IP6 and P disappearance was observed only in the ileum, where 11% reduction in both IP6 and P disappearance was seen when Ca increased from 0.7 to 1.0% (P < 0.05). Higher IP5 and IP6 concentrations were seen in both the crop and Prov+Giz at 0.34% PP as compared to birds fed to 0.23% PP diets, regardless of Ca or phytase (P < 0.05), whereas IP3 and IP4 concentrations were not affected by PP (P > 0.05). Inclusion of phytase, at both 500 and 1,000 FTU/kg, resulted in lower IP6 and the accumulation of lower IP ester (IP3–5) concentrations in all GI segments (P < 0.05). Improved IP6 and P disappearance was seen as a result of phytase inclusion, despite the degree of improvement affected by PP (P < 0.05). On average, 5.5 and 6.7 times improvement in IP6 was observed with 500 and 1,000 FTU phytase/kg inclusion, respectively, resulting in 41 and 64% greater P digestibility, respectively. In conclusion, phytase can effectively degrade IP6 to lower esters and increase P utilization. However, the efficacy of phytase can be affected by diet Ca and PP concentrations. PMID:28938789

Predictive IP controller for robust position control of linear servo system.

PubMed

Lu, Shaowu; Zhou, Fengxing; Ma, Yajie; Tang, Xiaoqi

2016-07-01

Position control is a typical application of linear servo system. In this paper, to reduce the system overshoot, an integral plus proportional (IP) controller is used in the position control implementation. To further improve the control performance, a gain-tuning IP controller based on a generalized predictive control (GPC) law is proposed. Firstly, to represent the dynamics of the position loop, a second-order linear model is used and its model parameters are estimated on-line by using a recursive least squares method. Secondly, based on the GPC law, an optimal control sequence is obtained by using receding horizon, then directly supplies the IP controller with the corresponding control parameters in the real operations. Finally, simulation and experimental results are presented to show the efficiency of proposed scheme. Copyright © 2016 ISA. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Intraperitoneal pressure and volume of gas injected as effective parameters of the correct position of the Veress needle during creation of pneumoperitoneum.

PubMed

Azevedo, João L M C; Azevedo, Otavio C; Sorbello, Albino A; Becker, Otavio M; Hypolito, Otavio; Freire, Dalmer; Miyahira, Susana; Guedes, Afonso; Azevedo, Glicia C

2009-12-01

The aim of this work was to establish reliable parameters of the correct position of the Veress needle in the peritoneal cavity during creation of pneumoperitoneum. The Veress needle was inserted into the peritoneal cavity of 100 selected patients, and a carbon-dioxide flow rate of 1.2 L/min and a maximum pressure of 12 mm Hg were established. Intraperitoneal pressure (IP) and the volume of gas injected (VG) were recorded at the beginning of insufflation and at every 20 seconds. Correlations were established for pressure and volume in function of time. Values of IP and VG were predicted at 1, 2, 3, and 4 minutes of insufflation, by applying the following formulas: IP = 2.3083 + 0.0266 x time +8.3 x 10(-5) x time(2) - 2.44 x 10(-7) x time(3); and VG = 0.813 + 0.0157 x time. A strong correlation was observed between IP and preestablished time points during creation of the pneumoperitoneum, as well as between VG and preestablished time points during creation of the pneumoperitoneum, with a coefficient of determination of 0.8011 for IP and of 0.9604 for VG. The predicted values were as follows: 1 minute = 4.15; 2 minutes = 6.27; 3 minutes = 8.36; and 4 minutes = 10.10 for IP (mm Hg); and 1 minute = 1.12; 2 minutes = 2.07; 3 minutes = 3.01; and 4 minutes = 3.95 for VG (L). Values of IP and VG at given time points during insufflation for creation of the pneumoperitoneum, using the Veress needle, can be effective parameters to determine whether the needle is correctly positioned in the peritoneal cavity.

Social costs of expanding access to evidence-based supported employment: concepts and interpretive review of evidence.

PubMed

Salkever, David

2013-02-01

A recent policy analysis argued that expanding access to evidence-based supported employment can provide savings in major components of social costs. This article extends the scope of this policy analysis by placing the argument within a recently developed economic framework for social cost-effectiveness analysis that defines a program's social cost impact as its effect on net consumption of all goods and services. A total of 27 studies over the past two decades are reviewed to synthesize evidence of the social cost impacts of expanding access to the individual placement and support model of supported employment (IPS-SE). Most studies have focused primarily on agency costs of providing IPS-SE services, cost offsets when clients shift from "traditional" rehabilitation to IPS-SE, and impacts on clients' earnings. Because costs and cost offsets are similar in magnitude, incremental costs of expanding services to persons who would otherwise receive traditional services are probably small or even negative. The population served by an expansion could be sizable, but the feasibility of a policy targeting IPS-SE expansion in this way has yet to be demonstrated. IPS-SE has positive impacts on competitive job earnings, but these may not fully translate into social cost offsets. Additional empirical support is needed for the argument that large-scale expansion would yield substantial mental health treatment cost offsets. Other gaps in evidence of policy impacts include take-up rate estimates, cost impact estimates from longer-term studies (exceeding two years), and longer-term studies of whether IPS-SE prevents younger clients from becoming recipients of Supplemental Security Income or Social Security Disability Insurance

Protective effect of ethyl pyruvate on mice sperm parameters in phenylhydrazine induced hemolytic anemia.

PubMed

Mozafari, Ali Akbar; Shahrooz, Rasoul; Ahmadi, Abbas; Malekinjad, Hassan; Mardani, Karim

2016-01-01

The aim of the present study was to assess the protective effect of ethyl pyruvate (EP) on sperm quality parameters, testosterone level and malondialdehyde (MDA) in phenylhydrazine (PHZ) treated mice. For this purpose, 32 NMRI mice with the age range of 8 to 10 weeks, weight average 26.0 ± 2.0 g, were randomly divided into four equal groups. The control group (1) received normal saline (0. 1 mL per day) by intraperitoneal injection (IP). Group 2 (PHZ group) was treated with initial dose of PHZ (8 mg 100 g(-1), IP) followed by 6 mg 100 g(-1) , IP every 48 hr. Group 3, (Group PHZ+EP) received PHZ (according to the previous prescription) with EP (40 mg kg(-1), daily, IP). Ethyl pyruvate group (4) received only EP (40 mg kg(-1), daily, IP). Treatment period was 35 days. After euthanasia, sperms from caudal region of epididymis were collected and the total mean sperm count, sperm viability, motility and morphology were determined. Testis tissue MDA and serum testosterone levels of all experimental groups were also evaluated. A considerable reduction in mean percentage of number, natural morphology of sperm, sperm motility and viability and serum testosterone concentration besides DNA injury increment among mice treating with PHZ in comparison with control group were observed. However, in PHZ+EP group the above mentioned parameters were improved. This study showed that PHZ caused induction of toxicity on sperm parameters and reduction of testosterone as well as the increment of MDA level and EP as an antioxidant could reduce destructive effects of PHZ on sperm parameters, testosterone level and lipid peroxidation.

Model calibration for ice sheets and glaciers dynamics: a general theory of inverse problems in glaciology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Giudici, Mauro; Baratelli, Fulvia; Vassena, Chiara; Cattaneo, Laura

2014-05-01

Numerical modelling of the dynamic evolution of ice sheets and glaciers requires the solution of discrete equations which are based on physical principles (e.g. conservation of mass, linear momentum and energy) and phenomenological constitutive laws (e.g. Glen's and Fourier's laws). These equations must be accompanied by information on the forcing term and by initial and boundary conditions (IBC) on ice velocity, stress and temperature; on the other hand the constitutive laws involves many physical parameters, which possibly depend on the ice thermodynamical state. The proper forecast of the dynamics of ice sheets and glaciers (forward problem, FP) requires a precise knowledge of several quantities which appear in the IBCs, in the forcing terms and in the phenomenological laws and which cannot be easily measured at the study scale in the field. Therefore these quantities can be obtained through model calibration, i.e. by the solution of an inverse problem (IP). Roughly speaking, the IP aims at finding the optimal values of the model parameters that yield the best agreement of the model output with the field observations and data. The practical application of IPs is usually formulated as a generalised least squares approach, which can be cast in the framework of Bayesian inference. IPs are well developed in several areas of science and geophysics and several applications were proposed also in glaciology. The objective of this paper is to provide a further step towards a thorough and rigorous theoretical framework in cryospheric studies. Although the IP is often claimed to be ill-posed, this is rigorously true for continuous domain models, whereas for numerical models, which require the solution of algebraic equations, the properties of the IP must be analysed with more care. First of all, it is necessary to clarify the role of experimental and monitoring data to determine the calibration targets and the values of the parameters that can be considered to be fixed, whereas only the model output should depend on the subset of the parameters that can be identified with the calibration procedure and the solution to the IP. It is actually difficult to guarantee the existence and uniqueness of a solution to the IP for complex non-linear models. Also identifiability, a property related to the solution to the FP, and resolution should be carefully considered. Moreover, instability of the IP should not be confused with ill-conditioning and with the properties of the method applied to compute a solution. Finally, sensitivity analysis is of paramount importance to assess the reliability of the estimated parameters and of the model output, but it is often based on the one-at-a-time approach, through the application of the adjoint-state method, to compute local sensitivity, i.e. the uncertainty on the model output due to small variations of the input parameters, whereas first-order approaches that consider the whole possible variability of the model parameters should be considered. This theoretical framework and the relevant properties are illustrated by means of a simple numerical example of isothermal ice flow, based on the shallow ice approximation.

Impact of VoIP and QoS on Open and Distance Learning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Saxena, P. C.; Jasola, Sanjay; Sharma, Ramesh C.

2006-01-01

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is becoming a reality in many organizations. The potential for mobility in voice over wi-fi networks will derive demand for the technology. Wireless VoIP is poised to rival VoIP as an alternative telephony tool. Internet has been used to transport data in the form of packet. In the past, Internet did not support…

Impact of the Medicare interim payment system on length of use in home care among patients with Medicare-only payment source.

PubMed

Han, Beth; Remsburg, Robin E

2005-01-01

Using data from the 1996 and 2000 National Home and Hospice Care Surveys (N = 2,455), we examined length of use in home care among patients with Medicare-only payment source before and during the Medicare interim payment system (IPS). Logistic regression analyses revealed that patients were 2.9 times more likely to be discharged within 60 days during IPS than before IPS. The impact of Medicare IPS on length of use in home care among patients with Medicare only was stronger than what the existing literature indicates, which combines Medicare patients with multiple payment sources and patients with Medicare-only together.

Transient oxidative stress and inflammation after intraperitoneal administration of multiwalled carbon nanotubes functionalized with single strand DNA in rats

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

Clichici, Simona, E-mail: simonaclichici@yahoo.com; Biris, Alexandru Radu; Tabaran, Flaviu

2012-03-15

Multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) are widely used for nanotechnology. Their impact on living organisms is, however, not entirely clarified. Oxidative stress and inflammation seem to be the key mechanisms involved in MWCNTs' cytotoxicity. Until present, pulmonary and skin models were the main tested experimental designs to assess carbon nanotubes' toxicity. The systemic administration of MWCNTs is essential, with respect for future medical applications. Our research is performed on Wistar rats and is focused on the dynamics of oxidative stress parameters in blood and liver and pro-inflammatory cytokines in liver, after single dose (270 mg l{sup −1}) ip administration of MWCNTsmore » (exterior diameter 15–25 nm, interior diameter 10–15 nm, surface 88 m{sup 2} g{sup −1}) functionalized with single strand DNA (ss-DNA). The presence of MWCNTs in blood was assessed by Raman spectroscopy, while in liver histological examination and confocal microscopy were used. It was found that ss-DNA-MWCNTs induce oxidative stress in plasma and liver, with the return of the tested parameters to normal values, 6 h after ip injection of nanotubes, with the exception of reduced glutathione in plasma. The inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β) had a similar pattern of evolution. We also assessed the level of ERK1/2 and the phosphorylation of p65 subunit of NF-kB in liver that had a transient increase and returned to normal at the end of the tested period. Our results demonstrate that ss-DNA-MWCNTs produce oxidative stress and inflammation, but with a transient pattern. Given the fact that antioxidants modify the profile not only for oxidative stress, but also of inflammation, the dynamics of these alterations may be of practical importance for future protective strategies. -- Highlights: ► ss-DNA-MWCNTs ip administration induce oxidative stress in plasma and liver. ► ss-DNA-MWCNTs ip administration determine liver inflammation. ► ERK1/2 and p65 phosphorylated NF-KB increase in liver after MWCNTs ip injection. ► All the alterations, except plasma GSH, return to normal within 6 days.« less

Intoxication by Intraperitoneal Injection or Oral Gavage Equally Potentiates Postburn Organ Damage and Inflammation

PubMed Central

Chen, Michael M.; Palmer, Jessica L.; Ippolito, Jill A.; Curtis, Brenda J.; Choudhry, Mashkoor A.; Kovacs, Elizabeth J.

2013-01-01

The increasing prevalence of binge drinking and its association with trauma necessitate accurate animal models to examine the impact of intoxication on the response and outcome to injuries such as burn. While much research has focused on the effect of alcohol dose and duration on the subsequent inflammatory parameters following burn, little evidence exists on the effect of the route of alcohol administration. We examined the degree to which intoxication before burn injury causes systemic inflammation when ethanol is given by intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection or oral gavage. We found that intoxication potentiates postburn damage in the ileum, liver, and lungs of mice to an equivalent extent when either ethanol administration route is used. We also found a similar hematologic response and levels of circulating interleukin-6 (IL-6) when either ethanol paradigm achieved intoxication before burn. Furthermore, both i.p. and gavage resulted in similar blood alcohol concentrations at all time points tested. Overall, our data show an equal inflammatory response to burn injury when intoxication is achieved by either i.p. injection or oral gavage, suggesting that findings from studies using either ethanol paradigm are directly comparable. PMID:24379525

In vivo anticancer activity of vanillin semicarbazone

PubMed Central

Ali, Shaikh M Mohsin; Azad, M Abul Kalam; Jesmin, Mele; Ahsan, Shamim; Rahman, M Mijanur; Khanam, Jahan Ara; Islam, M Nazrul; Shahriar, Sha M Shahan

2012-01-01

Objective To evaluate the anticancer activity of vanillin semicarbazone (VSC) against Ehrlich ascites carcinoma (EAC) cells in Swiss albino mice. Methods The compound VSC at three doses (5, 7.5 and 10 mg/kg i.p.) was administered into the intraperitoneal cavity of the EAC inoculated mice to observe its efficiency by studying the cell growth inhibition, reduction of tumour weight, enhancement of survival time as well as the changes in depleted hematological parameters. All such parameters were also studied with a known standard drug bleomycin at the dose of 0.3 mg/kg (i.p.). Results Among the doses studied, 10 mg/kg (i.p.) was found to be quite comparable in potency to that of bleomycin at the dose of 0.3 mg/kg (i.p.). The host toxic effects of VSC was found to be negligible. Conclusions It can be concluded that VSC can therefore be considered as potent anticancer agent. PMID:23569946

Safety and effects of two mistletoe preparations on production of Interleukin-6 and other immune parameters - a placebo controlled clinical trial in healthy subjects

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Background In Germany, Iscucin® Populi (IP), a preparation from mistletoe growing on the poplar tree, is used in cancer therapy while Viscum Mali e planta tota (VM), a preparation from mistletoe growing on the apple tree, is used in patients with osteoarthritis. Since mistletoe preparations are suspected to induce production of potentially tumor promoting cytokines like interleukin (IL)-6, further studies on the immunological effects are of interest. Methods In this 3-armed randomized, double blind clinical trial healthy volunteers received increasing doses of either IP (strength F, 0.0125%, G, 0.25% and H, 5%, each for 4 weeks), or VM (1:1000 [D3], 1:100 [D2] and 2% each for 4 weeks) or placebo (isotonic solution) subcutaneously twice per week over a period of 12 weeks. Physical examination was performed weekly. Routine laboratory parameters and immunological parameters (C-reactive protein (CRP), differential blood count, lymphocyte subsets, immunoglobulins, IL-6 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α) were analysed every 4 weeks. Results 71 subjects were included in the study (IP = 30, VM = 21, placebo = 20) of whom 69 concluded it according to protocol. Application of IP strengths G and H caused strong local reactions at the site of injection. In parallel, a distinct eosinophilia (p < 0.001 compared to placebo) occurred. Furthermore, application of all IP concentrations resulted in an increase of CD4 cell counts (p < 0.05) compared to placebo. Stimulation of IL-6 production, CRP or relevant deviations in other laboratory parameters were not observed. Because of local reactions, IP strengths G and H were considered less tolerable than placebo. VM 2% was slightly less tolerable than placebo, caused only mild local reactions and an only small increase in eosinophile counts. Conclusion Treatment with IP results in eosinophilia and an increase of CD4 cells but not in an increase of IL-6 or CRP. No safety concerns regarding the two mistletoe preparations have been raised by this study. EudraCT-Number 2007-002166-35. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01378702 PMID:22114899

Regulation of 1, 4, 5-triphosphate receptor channel gating dynamics by mutant presenilin in Alzheimer's disease cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wei, Fang; Li, Xiang; Cai, Meichun; Liu, Yanping; Jung, Peter; Shuai, Jianwei

2017-06-01

In neurons of patients with Alzheimer's disease, the intracellular Ca2+ concentration is increased by its release from the endoplasmic reticulum via the inositol 1, 4, 5-triphosphate receptor (IP3R). In this paper, we discuss the IP3R gating dynamics in familial Alzheimer's disease (FAD) cells induced with presenilin mutation PS1. By fitting the parameters of an IP3R channel model to experimental data of the open probability, the mean open time and the mean closed time of IP3R channels, in control cells and FAD mutant cells, we suggest that the interaction of presenilin mutation PS1 with IP3R channels leads the decrease in the unbinding rates of IP3 and the activating Ca2+ from IP3Rs. As a result, the increased affinities of IP3 and activating Ca2+ for IP3R channels induce the increase in the Ca2+ signal in FAD mutant cells. Specifically, the PS1 mutation decreases the IP3 dissociation rate of IP3R channels significantly in FAD mutant cells. Our results suggest possible novel targets for FAD therapeutic intervention.

Inositol pyrophosphates promote tumor growth and metastasis by antagonizing liver kinase B1

PubMed Central

Rao, Feng; Xu, Jing; Fu, Chenglai; Cha, Jiyoung Y.; Gadalla, Moataz M.; Xu, Risheng; Barrow, James C.; Snyder, Solomon H.

2015-01-01

The inositol pyrophosphates, molecular messengers containing an energetic pyrophosphate bond, impact a wide range of biologic processes. They are generated primarily by a family of three inositol hexakisphosphate kinases (IP6Ks), the principal product of which is diphosphoinositol pentakisphosphate (IP7). We report that IP6K2, via IP7 synthesis, is a major mediator of cancer cell migration and tumor metastasis in cell culture and in intact mice. IP6K2 acts by enhancing cell-matrix adhesion and decreasing cell–cell adhesion. This action is mediated by IP7-elicited nuclear sequestration and inactivation of the tumor suppressor liver kinase B1 (LKB1). Accordingly, inhibitors of IP6K2 offer promise in cancer therapy. PMID:25617365

ChIP-chip versus ChIP-seq: Lessons for experimental design and data analysis

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Background Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) followed by microarray hybridization (ChIP-chip) or high-throughput sequencing (ChIP-seq) allows genome-wide discovery of protein-DNA interactions such as transcription factor bindings and histone modifications. Previous reports only compared a small number of profiles, and little has been done to compare histone modification profiles generated by the two technologies or to assess the impact of input DNA libraries in ChIP-seq analysis. Here, we performed a systematic analysis of a modENCODE dataset consisting of 31 pairs of ChIP-chip/ChIP-seq profiles of the coactivator CBP, RNA polymerase II (RNA PolII), and six histone modifications across four developmental stages of Drosophila melanogaster. Results Both technologies produce highly reproducible profiles within each platform, ChIP-seq generally produces profiles with a better signal-to-noise ratio, and allows detection of more peaks and narrower peaks. The set of peaks identified by the two technologies can be significantly different, but the extent to which they differ varies depending on the factor and the analysis algorithm. Importantly, we found that there is a significant variation among multiple sequencing profiles of input DNA libraries and that this variation most likely arises from both differences in experimental condition and sequencing depth. We further show that using an inappropriate input DNA profile can impact the average signal profiles around genomic features and peak calling results, highlighting the importance of having high quality input DNA data for normalization in ChIP-seq analysis. Conclusions Our findings highlight the biases present in each of the platforms, show the variability that can arise from both technology and analysis methods, and emphasize the importance of obtaining high quality and deeply sequenced input DNA libraries for ChIP-seq analysis. PMID:21356108

Spectra of High-Ionization Seyfert 1 Galaxies: Implications for the Narrow-Line Region

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Moore, David; Cohen, Ross D.; Marcy, Geoffrey W.

1996-01-01

We present line profiles and profile parameters for the Narrow-Line Regions (NLRs) of six Seyfert 1 galaxies with high-ionization lines: MCG 8-11-11, Mrk 79, Mrk 704, Mrk 841, NGC 4151, and NGC 5548. The sample was chosen primarily with the goal of obtaining high-quality [Fe VII] lambda6087 and, when possible, [Fe X] lambda6374 profiles to determine if these lines are more likely formed in a physically distinct 'coronal line region' or are formed throughout the NLR along with lines of lower critical density (n(sub cr)) and/or Ionization Potential (IP). We discuss correlations of velocity shift and width with n(sub cr) and IP. In some objects, lines of high IP and/or n(sub cr) are systematically broader than those of low IP/n(sub cr). Of particular interest, however, are objects that show no correlations of line width with either IP or n(sub cr). In these objects, lines of high and low IP/n(sub cr), are remarkably similar, which is difficult to reconcile with the classical picture of the NLR, in which lines of high and low IP/n(sub cr) are formed in physically distinct regions. We argue for similar spatial extents for the flux in lines with similar profiles. Here, as well as in a modeling-oriented companion paper, we develop further an idea suggested by Moore & Cohen that objects that do and do not show line width correlations with IP/n(sub cr) can both be explained in terms of a single NLR model with only a small difference in the cloud column density distinguishing the two types of object. Overall, our objects do not show correlations between the Full Width at Half-Maximum (FWHM) and IP and/or n(sub cr). The width must be defined by a parameter that is sensitive to extended profile wings in order for the correlations to result. We present models in which FWHM correlations with IP and/or n(sub cr) result only after simulating the lower spectral resolution used in previous observational studies. The models that simulate the higher spectral resolution of our observational study produce line width correlations only if the width is defined by a parameter that is more sensitive to extended profile wings than is the FWHM. Our sample of six objects is in effect augmented by incorporating the larger sample (16 objects) of Veilleux into some of our discussion. This paper focuses on new interpretations of NLR emission-line spectra and line profiles that stem directly from the observations. Paper 2 focuses on modeling and complements this paper by illustrating explicitly the effects that spatial variations in electron density, ionization parameter, and column density have on model profiles. By comparing model profiles with the observed profiles presented here, as well as with those presented by Veilleux, Paper 2 yields insight into how the electron density, ionization parameter, and column density likely vary throughout the NLR.

Brain region-selective mechanisms contribute to the progression of cerebral alterations in acute liver failure in rats.

PubMed

Cauli, Omar; López-Larrubia, Pilar; Rodrigo, Regina; Agusti, Ana; Boix, Jordi; Nieto-Charques, Laura; Cerdán, Sebastián; Felipo, Vicente

2011-02-01

Patients with acute liver failure (ALF) often die of intracranial pressure (IP) and cerebral herniation. Main contributors to increased IP are ammonia, glutamine, edema, and blood flow. The sequence of events and underlying mechanisms, as well as the temporal pattern, regional distribution, and contribution of each parameter to the progression of neurologic deterioration and IP, are unclear. We studied rats with ALF to follow the progression of changes in ammonia, glutamine, grade and type (vasogenic or cytotoxic) of edema, blood-brain barrier permeability, cerebral blood flow, and IP. We assessed whether the changes in these parameters were similar between frontal cortex and cerebellum and evaluated the presence, type, and progression of edema in 12 brain areas. ALF was induced by injection of galactosamine. The grade and type of edema was assessed by measuring the apparent diffusion coefficient by magnetic resonance imaging. Cerebral blood flow was measured by magnetic resonance and blood-brain barrier permeability by Evans blue-albumin extravasation. Increased IP arises from an early increase of blood-brain barrier permeability in certain areas (including cerebellum but not frontal cortex) followed by vasogenic edema. Ammonia and glutamine then increase progressively, leading to cytotoxic edema in many areas. Alterations in lactate and cerebral blood flow are later events that further increase IP. Different mechanisms in specific regions of the brain contribute, with different temporal patterns, to the progression of cerebral alterations and IP in ALF. Copyright © 2011 AGA Institute. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Impact of artifact removal on ChIP quality metrics in ChIP-seq and ChIP-exo data

PubMed Central

Carroll, Thomas S.; Liang, Ziwei; Salama, Rafik; Stark, Rory; de Santiago, Ines

2014-01-01

With the advent of ChIP-seq multiplexing technologies and the subsequent increase in ChIP-seq throughput, the development of working standards for the quality assessment of ChIP-seq studies has received significant attention. The ENCODE consortium's large scale analysis of transcription factor binding and epigenetic marks as well as concordant work on ChIP-seq by other laboratories has established a new generation of ChIP-seq quality control measures. The use of these metrics alongside common processing steps has however not been evaluated. In this study, we investigate the effects of blacklisting and removal of duplicated reads on established metrics of ChIP-seq quality and show that the interpretation of these metrics is highly dependent on the ChIP-seq preprocessing steps applied. Further to this we perform the first investigation of the use of these metrics for ChIP-exo data and make recommendations for the adaptation of the NSC statistic to allow for the assessment of ChIP-exo efficiency. PMID:24782889

Impact of Environmental Exposures on the Mutagenicity/Carcinogenicity of Heterocyclic Amines

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

Felton, J S; Knize, M G; Bennett, L M

2003-12-19

Carcinogenic heterocyclic amines are produced from overcooked foods and are highly mutagenic in most short-term test systems. One of the most abundant of these amines, 2-amino-1-methyl-6-phenylimidazo[4,5-b]pyridine (PhIP), induces breast, colon and prostate tumors in rats. Human dietary epidemiology studies suggest a strong correlation between either meat consumption or well-done muscle meat consumption and cancers of the colon, breast, stomach, lung and esophagus. For over 20 years our laboratory has helped define the human exposure to these dietary carcinogens. In this report we describe how various environmental exposures may modulate the risk from exposure to heterocyclic amines, especially PhIP. To assessmore » the impact of foods on PhIP metabolism in humans, we developed an LC/MS/MS method to analyze the four major PhIP urinary metabolites following the consumption of a single portion of grilled chicken. Adding broccoli to the volunteers' diet altered the kinetics of PhIP metabolism. At the cellular level we have found that PhIP itself stimulates a significant estrogenic response in MCF-7 cells, but even more interestingly, co-incubation of the cells with herbal teas appear to enhance the response. Numerous environmental chemicals found in food or the atmosphere can impact the exposure, metabolism, and cell proliferation response of heterocyclic amines.« less

Patent foramen ovale in liver transplant recipients does not negatively impact short-term outcomes.

PubMed

Werlang, Monia E; Palmer, William C; Boyd, Evelyn A; Cangemi, David J; Harnois, Denise M; Taner, Cemal B; Stancampiano, Fernando F

2016-01-01

Patent foramen ovale (PFO) is a common atrial septal defect that is largely asymptomatic and often undiagnosed. The impact of a PFO in patients undergoing liver transplantation (LT) is unknown. Assess the impact of PFO and physiologic intrapulmonary shunt (IPS) on the perioperative outcomes of patients who underwent LT. We performed a retrospective, intention-to-treat analysis of patients with PFO and controls without PFO who underwent LT at Mayo Clinic in Florida between 2008 and 2013. Patients with physiologic IPS were also analyzed. The cohorts were compared for baseline characteristics, length of stay in the intensive care unit (ICU), postoperative oxygen requirements, 30-d cerebrovascular accidents, and mortality. Of the 935 patients who underwent LT, 10.4% had proven PFO by pre-LT echocardiogram. Control patients (n = 101) were statistically older than PFO and IPS (n = 56) patients, but similar in sex, BMI, Model for End-stage Liver Disease score, American Society of Anesthesiologist score, and left ventricular ejection fraction. PFO and IPS patients had similar length of stay in the ICU, mechanical ventilation times, post-LT oxygen requirements, and 30-d mortality compared to controls. Subgroup analysis showed similar outcomes for large PFO and IPS patients to controls. The presence of PFO did not have a negative impact on perioperative LT outcomes. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Modeling hypertrophic IP3 transients in the cardiac myocyte.

PubMed

Cooling, Michael; Hunter, Peter; Crampin, Edmund J

2007-11-15

Cardiac hypertrophy is a known risk factor for heart disease, and at the cellular level is caused by a complex interaction of signal transduction pathways. The IP3-calcineurin pathway plays an important role in stimulating the transcription factor NFAT which binds to DNA cooperatively with other hypertrophic transcription factors. Using available kinetic data, we construct a mathematical model of the IP3 signal production system after stimulation by a hypertrophic alpha-adrenergic agonist (endothelin-1) in the mouse atrial cardiac myocyte. We use a global sensitivity analysis to identify key controlling parameters with respect to the resultant IP3 transient, including the phosphorylation of cell-membrane receptors, the ligand strength and binding kinetics to precoupled (with G(alpha)GDP) receptor, and the kinetics associated with precoupling the receptors. We show that the kinetics associated with the receptor system contribute to the behavior of the system to a great extent, with precoupled receptors driving the response to extracellular ligand. Finally, by reparameterizing for a second hypertrophic alpha-adrenergic agonist, angiotensin-II, we show that differences in key receptor kinetic and membrane density parameters are sufficient to explain different observed IP3 transients in essentially the same pathway.

Trade Secret Law and Information Systems: Can Your Students Keep a Secret?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Willey, Lorrie; Ford, Janet C.; White, Barbara Jo; Clapper, Danial L.

2011-01-01

The impact of intellectual property (IP) law on information systems (IS) professionals in business cannot be overstated. The IS 2010 model curriculum guidelines for undergraduate IS programs stress the importance of information security and knowledge about IP. While copyright and patents are the most well-known types of IP, another, trade secrets,…

Generic learning skills in academically-at-risk medical students: a development programme bridges the gap.

PubMed

Burch, Vanessa C; Sikakana, Cynthia N T; Gunston, Geney D; Shamley, Delva R; Murdoch-Eaton, Deborah

2013-08-01

Widening access to medical students from diverse educational backgrounds is a global educational mandate. The impact, on students' generic learning skills profiles, of development programmes designed for students at risk of attrition is unknown. This study investigated the impact of a 12-month Intervention Programme (IP) on the generic learning skills profile of academically-at-risk students who, after failing at the end of the first semester, completed the IP before entering the second semester of a conventional medical training programme. This prospective study surveyed medical students admitted in 2009 and 2010, on entry and on completion of first year, on their reported practice and confidence in information handling, managing own learning, technical and numeracy, computer, organisational and presentation skills. Of 414 first year students, 80 (19%) entered the IP. Levels of practice and confidence for five of the six skills categories were significantly poorer at entry for IP students compared to conventional stream students. In four categories these differences were no longer statistically significant after students had completed the IP; 62 IP students (77.5%) progressed to second year. A 12-month development programme, the IP, effectively addressed generic learning skills deficiencies present in academically-at-risk students entering medical school.

Inspecting the Dangers of Feeling like a Fake: An Empirical Investigation of the Impostor Phenomenon in the World of Work

PubMed Central

Neureiter, Mirjam; Traut-Mattausch, Eva

2016-01-01

To investigate the link between the impostor phenomenon (IP), career self-management (CSM) factors, and work-relevant outcomes, we looked at the IP's impact on career optimism, career adaptability, and knowledge of the job market, as well as on employee- and organizationally-relevant outcomes. We analyzed data from 238 working professionals (57% female) using parallel multiple mediation analyses. The results revealed that the IP was negatively related to all work-relevant outcomes through decreased CSM factors, which were subsequently associated with the outcomes. As hypothesized, employee-relevant subjective outcomes were mediated by optimism and employee-relevant objective (i.e., economic) outcomes by adaptability and knowledge. Additional mediating effects occurred. Regarding organizationally relevant outcomes, adaptability mediated the IP's impact on organizational citizenship behavior. The IP was only indirectly related to continuance commitment through adaptability and to affective commitment through optimism. We discuss the theoretical and practical implications and offer ideas for future research. PMID:27729882

Impact of electronic healthcare-associated infection surveillance software on infection prevention resources: a systematic review of the literature.

PubMed

Russo, P L; Shaban, R Z; Macbeth, D; Carter, A; Mitchell, B G

2018-05-01

Surveillance of healthcare-associated infections is fundamental for infection prevention. The methods and practices for surveillance have evolved as technology becomes more advanced. The availability of electronic surveillance software (ESS) has increased, and yet adoption of ESS is slow. It is argued that ESS delivers savings through automation, particularly in terms of human resourcing and infection prevention (IP) staff time. To describe the findings of a systematic review on the impact of ESS on IP resources. A systematic search was conducted of electronic databases Medline and the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature published between January 1 st , 2006 and December 31 st , 2016 with analysis using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. In all, 2832 articles were reviewed, of which 16 studies met the inclusion criteria. IP resources were identified as time undertaken on surveillance. A reduction in IP staff time to undertake surveillance was demonstrated in 13 studies. The reduction proportion ranged from 12.5% to 98.4% (mean: 73.9%). The remaining three did not allow for any estimation of the effect in terms of IP staff time. None of the studies demonstrated an increase in IP staff time. The results of this review demonstrate that adopting ESS yields considerable dividends in IP staff time relating to data collection and case ascertainment while maintaining high levels of sensitivity and specificity. This has the potential to enable reinvestment into other components of IP to maximize efficient use of scarce IP resources. Copyright © 2017 The Healthcare Infection Society. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Impact of Platysoma parallelum and Plegaderus transversus (Coleoptera: Histeridae) predation on developing Ips calligraphus and Ips grandicollis (Coleoptera: Scolytidae) brood

Treesearch

William P. Shepherd; Richard A. Goyer

2005-01-01

As a group, arthropod natural enemies have been shown to substantially reduce within-tree pine bark beetle populations. However, little is known about the impacts of individual species on bark beetle mortality. In a controlled laboratory study, we measured the effects of two predaceous histerid species, Platysoma parallelum (Say) and ...

On the identifiability of inertia parameters of planar Multi-Body Space Systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nabavi-Chashmi, Seyed Yaser; Malaek, Seyed Mohammad-Bagher

2018-04-01

This work describes a new formulation to study the identifiability characteristics of Serially Linked Multi-body Space Systems (SLMBSS). The process exploits the so called "Lagrange Formulation" to develop a linear form of Equations of Motion w.r.t the system Inertia Parameters (IPs). Having developed a specific form of regressor matrix, we aim to expedite the identification process. The new approach allows analytical as well as numerical identification and identifiability analysis for different SLMBSSs' configurations. Moreover, the explicit forms of SLMBSSs identifiable parameters are derived by analyzing the identifiability characteristics of the robot. We further show that any SLMBSS designed with Variable Configurations Joint allows all IPs to be identifiable through comparing two successive identification outcomes. This feature paves the way to design new class of SLMBSS for which accurate identification of all IPs is at hand. Different case studies reveal that proposed formulation provides fast and accurate results, as required by the space applications. Further studies might be necessary for cases where planar-body assumption becomes inaccurate.

Network Quality of Service Monitoring for IP Telephony.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ghita, B. V.; Furnell, S. M.; Lines, B. M.; Le-Foll, D.; Ifeachor, E. C.

2001-01-01

Discusses the development of real-time applications on the Internet for telecommunications and presents a non-intrusive way of determining network performance parameters for voice packet flows within a voice over IP (Internet Protocol), or Internet telephony call. Considers measurement of quality of service and describes results of a preliminary…

Variations in oxygen and ellagitannins, and organoleptic properties of red wine aged in French oak barrels classified by a near infrared system.

PubMed

Michel, Julien; Albertin, Warren; Jourdes, Michael; Le Floch, Alexandra; Giordanengo, Thomas; Mourey, Nicolas; Teissedre, Pierre-Louis

2016-08-01

During wine aging in barrels, antioxidant molecules from wood, such as ellagitannins, are solubilized and react with wine molecules and oxygen. However, their concentrations are highly variable. Oxygen is an important factor, as it plays a role in wine parameters and organoleptic perceptions. Five barrel modalities were used; three polyphenol indices (IP), classified using the NIRS procedure, and three grain qualities. Barrels were equipped with windows to measure the oxygen using luminescence technology. The ellagitannin concentrations in the wine and its organoleptic properties were monitored. Oxygen concentrations decreased quickly during the first 8days of aging and this phenomenon was significantly more marked in barrels with a higher IP and medium grain. The ellagitannin concentrations were believed to be correlated with wood classification and oxygen consumption. Furthermore, the organoleptic properties were significantly impacted, as the wine with the lowest ellagitannin level was described as less astringent, bitter, woody, and smoky/toasty. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Purification of nanogram-range immunoprecipitated DNA in ChIP-seq application.

PubMed

Zhong, Jian; Ye, Zhenqing; Lenz, Samuel W; Clark, Chad R; Bharucha, Adil; Farrugia, Gianrico; Robertson, Keith D; Zhang, Zhiguo; Ordog, Tamas; Lee, Jeong-Heon

2017-12-21

Chromatin immunoprecipitation-sequencing (ChIP-seq) is a widely used epigenetic approach for investigating genome-wide protein-DNA interactions in cells and tissues. The approach has been relatively well established but several key steps still require further improvement. As a part of the procedure, immnoprecipitated DNA must undergo purification and library preparation for subsequent high-throughput sequencing. Current ChIP protocols typically yield nanogram quantities of immunoprecipitated DNA mainly depending on the target of interest and starting chromatin input amount. However, little information exists on the performance of reagents used for the purification of such minute amounts of immunoprecipitated DNA in ChIP elution buffer and their effects on ChIP-seq data. Here, we compared DNA recovery, library preparation efficiency, and ChIP-seq results obtained with several commercial DNA purification reagents applied to 1 ng ChIP DNA and also investigated the impact of conditions under which ChIP DNA is stored. We compared DNA recovery of ten commercial DNA purification reagents and phenol/chloroform extraction from 1 to 50 ng of immunopreciptated DNA in ChIP elution buffer. The recovery yield was significantly different with 1 ng of DNA while similar in higher DNA amounts. We also observed that the low nanogram range of purified DNA is prone to loss during storage depending on the type of polypropylene tube used. The immunoprecipitated DNA equivalent to 1 ng of purified DNA was subject to DNA purification and library preparation to evaluate the performance of four better performing purification reagents in ChIP-seq applications. Quantification of library DNAs indicated the selected purification kits have a negligible impact on the efficiency of library preparation. The resulting ChIP-seq data were comparable with the dataset generated by ENCODE consortium and were highly correlated between the data from different purification reagents. This study provides comparative data on commercial DNA purification reagents applied to nanogram-range immunopreciptated ChIP DNA and evidence for the importance of storage conditions of low nanogram-range purified DNA. We verified consistent high performance of a subset of the tested reagents. These results will facilitate the improvement of ChIP-seq methodology for low-input applications.

Impact of non-thermal plasma surface modification on porous calcium hydroxyapatite ceramics for bone regeneration

PubMed Central

Moriguchi, Yu; Lee, Dae-Sung; Thamina, Khair; Masuda, Kazuto; Itsuki, Dai; Yoshikawa, Hideki; Hamaguchi, Satoshi; Myoui, Akira

2018-01-01

In the physiochemical sciences, plasma is used to describe an ionized gas. Previous studies have implicated plasma surface treatment in the enhancement of hydrophilicity of implanted musculoskeletal reconstructive materials. Hydroxyapatite (HA) ceramics, widely used in bone tissue regeneration, have made great advancements to skeletal surgery. In the present study, we investigate the impact of low-pressure plasma on the interconnected porous calcium hydroxyapatite (IP-CHA) both in vitro and in vivo. Our results indicate that dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma, when used with oxygen, can augment the hydrophilicity of non-porous HA surfaces and the osteoconductivity of the IP-CHA disc via increased water penetration of inner porous structures, as demonstrated through microfocus computed tomography (μCT) assay. In vivo implantation of plasma-treated IP-CHA displayed superior bone ingrowth than untreated IP-CHA. Though plasma-treated IP-CHA did not alter osteoblast cell proliferation, it accelerated osteogenic differentiation of seeded marrow mesenchymal stem cells. In vitro X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) revealed that this plasma treatment increases levels of oxygen, rather than nitrogen, on the plasma-treated IP-CHA surface. These findings suggest that plasma treatment, an easy and simple processing, can significantly improve the osteoconductive potential of commonly used artificial bones such as IP-CHA. Further optimization of plasma treatment and longer-term follow-up of in vivo application are required toward its clinical application. PMID:29538457

Positive impact of infection prevention on the management of nosocomial outbreaks at an academic hospital.

PubMed

Dik, Jan-Willem H; Sinha, Bhanu; Lokate, Mariëtte; Lo-Ten-Foe, Jerome R; Dinkelacker, Ariane G; Postma, Maarten J; Friedrich, Alexander W

2016-10-01

Infection prevention (IP) measures are vital to prevent (nosocomial) outbreaks. Financial evaluations of these are scarce. An incremental cost analysis for an academic IP unit was performed. On a yearly basis, we evaluated: IP measures; costs thereof; numbers of patients at risk for causing nosocomial outbreaks; predicted outbreak patients; and actual outbreak patients. IP costs rose on average yearly with €150,000; however, more IP actions were undertaken. Numbers of patients colonized with high-risk microorganisms increased. The trend of actual outbreak patients remained stable. Predicted prevented outbreak patients saved costs, leading to a positive return on investment of 1.94. This study shows that investments in IP can prevent outbreak cases, thereby saving enough money to earn back these investments.

Trunk-acceleration based assessment of gait parameters in older persons: a comparison of reliability and validity of four inverted pendulum based estimations.

PubMed

Zijlstra, Agnes; Zijlstra, Wiebren

2013-09-01

Inverted pendulum (IP) models of human walking allow for wearable motion-sensor based estimations of spatio-temporal gait parameters during unconstrained walking in daily-life conditions. At present it is unclear to what extent different IP based estimations yield different results, and reliability and validity have not been investigated in older persons without a specific medical condition. The aim of this study was to compare reliability and validity of four different IP based estimations of mean step length in independent-living older persons. Participants were assessed twice and walked at different speeds while wearing a tri-axial accelerometer at the lower back. For all step-length estimators, test-retest intra-class correlations approached or were above 0.90. Intra-class correlations with reference step length were above 0.92 with a mean error of 0.0 cm when (1) multiplying the estimated center-of-mass displacement during a step by an individual correction factor in a simple IP model, or (2) adding an individual constant for bipedal stance displacement to the estimated displacement during single stance in a 2-phase IP model. When applying generic corrections or constants in all subjects (i.e. multiplication by 1.25, or adding 75% of foot length), correlations were above 0.75 with a mean error of respectively 2.0 and 1.2 cm. Although the results indicate that an individual adjustment of the IP models provides better estimations of mean step length, the ease of a generic adjustment can be favored when merely evaluating intra-individual differences. Further studies should determine the validity of these IP based estimations for assessing gait in daily life. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

RIDES: Robust Intrusion Detection System for IP-Based Ubiquitous Sensor Networks

PubMed Central

Amin, Syed Obaid; Siddiqui, Muhammad Shoaib; Hong, Choong Seon; Lee, Sungwon

2009-01-01

The IP-based Ubiquitous Sensor Network (IP-USN) is an effort to build the “Internet of things”. By utilizing IP for low power networks, we can benefit from existing well established tools and technologies of IP networks. Along with many other unresolved issues, securing IP-USN is of great concern for researchers so that future market satisfaction and demands can be met. Without proper security measures, both reactive and proactive, it is hard to envisage an IP-USN realm. In this paper we present a design of an IDS (Intrusion Detection System) called RIDES (Robust Intrusion DEtection System) for IP-USN. RIDES is a hybrid intrusion detection system, which incorporates both Signature and Anomaly based intrusion detection components. For signature based intrusion detection this paper only discusses the implementation of distributed pattern matching algorithm with the help of signature-code, a dynamically created attack-signature identifier. Other aspects, such as creation of rules are not discussed. On the other hand, for anomaly based detection we propose a scoring classifier based on the SPC (Statistical Process Control) technique called CUSUM charts. We also investigate the settings and their effects on the performance of related parameters for both of the components. PMID:22412321

RIDES: Robust Intrusion Detection System for IP-Based Ubiquitous Sensor Networks.

PubMed

Amin, Syed Obaid; Siddiqui, Muhammad Shoaib; Hong, Choong Seon; Lee, Sungwon

2009-01-01

The IP-based Ubiquitous Sensor Network (IP-USN) is an effort to build the "Internet of things". By utilizing IP for low power networks, we can benefit from existing well established tools and technologies of IP networks. Along with many other unresolved issues, securing IP-USN is of great concern for researchers so that future market satisfaction and demands can be met. Without proper security measures, both reactive and proactive, it is hard to envisage an IP-USN realm. In this paper we present a design of an IDS (Intrusion Detection System) called RIDES (Robust Intrusion DEtection System) for IP-USN. RIDES is a hybrid intrusion detection system, which incorporates both Signature and Anomaly based intrusion detection components. For signature based intrusion detection this paper only discusses the implementation of distributed pattern matching algorithm with the help of signature-code, a dynamically created attack-signature identifier. Other aspects, such as creation of rules are not discussed. On the other hand, for anomaly based detection we propose a scoring classifier based on the SPC (Statistical Process Control) technique called CUSUM charts. We also investigate the settings and their effects on the performance of related parameters for both of the components.

The impact of the duration of an untreated episode on improvement of depression and somatic symptoms

PubMed Central

Hung, Ching-I; Yu, Nan-Wen; Liu, Chia-Yih; Wu, Kuan-Yi; Yang, Ching-Hui

2015-01-01

Purpose The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of the duration of an untreated episode (DUE) on the improvement of depression and somatic symptoms among patients with major depressive disorder (MDD), after the patients had received 4 weeks of pharmacotherapy. Methods In this open-label study, there were 155 participants with MDD who were treated daily with 75 mg of venlafaxine for 4 weeks. DUE was defined as the interval between the onset of the index major depressive episode and the start of pharmacotherapy. The Depression and Somatic Symptoms Scale (DSSS), composed of the depression subscale (DS) and the somatic subscale (SS), was used. The SS included the pain subscale (PS) and the nonpain somatic subscale (NPSS). Multiple linear regressions were used to test the impacts of DUE on the improvement percentages (IPs) of depression and somatic symptoms. Results Eighty-five subjects completed the 4-week treatment. The IPs of the DS, SS, and NPSS were significantly negatively correlated with DUE. A shorter DUE was related to higher IPs. DUE was an independent factor, predicting the IPs of the DS, SS, and NPSS. DUE <1 month was the most powerful time-point to predict the IPs of the DS, SS, and NPSS. However, DUE was unable to predict the IP of the PS at all time-points. Conclusion A shorter DUE might be one of the factors related to greater improvement of depression and somatic symptoms. DUE should be considered as an important factor when investigating the prognosis of depression and somatic symptoms. PMID:26346571

The impact of the duration of an untreated episode on improvement of depression and somatic symptoms.

PubMed

Hung, Ching-I; Yu, Nan-Wen; Liu, Chia-Yih; Wu, Kuan-Yi; Yang, Ching-Hui

2015-01-01

The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of the duration of an untreated episode (DUE) on the improvement of depression and somatic symptoms among patients with major depressive disorder (MDD), after the patients had received 4 weeks of pharmacotherapy. In this open-label study, there were 155 participants with MDD who were treated daily with 75 mg of venlafaxine for 4 weeks. DUE was defined as the interval between the onset of the index major depressive episode and the start of pharmacotherapy. The Depression and Somatic Symptoms Scale (DSSS), composed of the depression subscale (DS) and the somatic subscale (SS), was used. The SS included the pain subscale (PS) and the nonpain somatic subscale (NPSS). Multiple linear regressions were used to test the impacts of DUE on the improvement percentages (IPs) of depression and somatic symptoms. Eighty-five subjects completed the 4-week treatment. The IPs of the DS, SS, and NPSS were significantly negatively correlated with DUE. A shorter DUE was related to higher IPs. DUE was an independent factor, predicting the IPs of the DS, SS, and NPSS. DUE <1 month was the most powerful time-point to predict the IPs of the DS, SS, and NPSS. However, DUE was unable to predict the IP of the PS at all time-points. A shorter DUE might be one of the factors related to greater improvement of depression and somatic symptoms. DUE should be considered as an important factor when investigating the prognosis of depression and somatic symptoms.

Models for IP/MPLS routing performance: convergence, fast reroute, and QoS impact

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Choudhury, Gagan L.

2004-09-01

We show how to model the black-holing and looping of traffic during an Interior Gateway Protocol (IGP) convergence event at an IP network and how to significantly improve both the convergence time and packet loss duration through IGP parameter tuning and algorithmic improvement. We also explore some congestion avoidance and congestion control algorithms that can significantly improve stability of networks in the face of occasional massive control message storms. Specifically we show the positive impacts of prioritizing Hello and Acknowledgement packets and slowing down LSA generation and retransmission generation on detecting congestion in the network. For some types of video, voice signaling and circuit emulation applications it is necessary to reduce traffic loss durations following a convergence event to below 100 ms and we explore that using Fast Reroute algorithms based on Multiprotocol Label Switching Traffic Engineering (MPLS-TE) that effectively bypasses IGP convergence. We explore the scalability of primary and backup MPLS-TE tunnels where MPLS-TE domain is in the backbone-only or edge-to-edge. We also show how much extra backbone resource is needed to support Fast Reroute and how can that be reduced by taking advantage of Constrained Shortest Path (CSPF) routing of MPLS-TE and by reserving less than 100% of primary tunnel bandwidth during Fast Reroute.

Disruption of dopamine D1/D2 receptor complex is involved in the function of haloperidol in cardiac H9c2 cells.

PubMed

Lencesova, L; Szadvari, I; Babula, P; Kubickova, J; Chovancova, B; Lopusna, K; Rezuchova, I; Novakova, Z; Krizanova, O; Novakova, M

2017-12-15

Haloperidol is an antipsychotic agent and acts as dopamine D2 receptor (D2R) antagonist, as a prototypical ligand of sigma1 receptors (Sig1R) and it increases expression of type 1 IP 3 receptors (IP 3 R1). However, precise mechanism of haloperidol action on cardiomyocytes through dopaminergic signaling was not described yet. This study investigated a role of dopamine receptors in haloperidol-induced increase in IP 3 R1 and Sig1R, and compared physiological effect of melperone and haloperidol on basic heart parameters in rats. We used differentiated NG-108 cells and H9c2 cells. Gene expression, Western blot and immunofluorescence were used to evaluate haloperidol-induced differences; proximity ligation assay (PLA) and immunoprecipitation to determine interactions of D1/D2 receptors. To evaluate cardiac parameters, Wistar albino male rats were used. We have shown that antagonism of D2R with either haloperidol or melperone results in upregulation of both, IP 3 R1 and Sig1R, which is associated with increased D2R, but reduced D1R expression. Immunofluorescence, immunoprecipitation and PLA support formation of heteromeric D1/D2 complexes in H9c2 cells. Treatment with haloperidol (but not melperone) caused decrease in systolic and diastolic blood pressure and significant increase in heart rate. Because D1R/D2R complexes can engage Gq-like signaling in other experimental systems, these results are consistent with the possibility that disruption of D1R/D2R complex in H9c2 cells might cause a decrease in IP 3 R1 activity, which in turn may account for the increase expression of IP 3 R and Sig1R. D2R is probably not responsible for changes in cardiac parameters, since melperone did not have any effect. Copyright © 2017 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Impact of a Diesel High Pressure Common Rail Fuel System and Onboard Vehicle Storage on B20 Biodiesel Blend Stability

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

Christensen, Earl; McCormick, Robert L.; Sigelko, Jenny

Adoption of high-pressure common-rail (HPCR) fuel systems, which subject diesel fuels to higher temperatures and pressures, has brought into question the efficacy of ASTM International specifications for biodiesel and biodiesel blend oxidation stability, as well as the lack of any stability parameter for diesel fuel. A controlled experiment was developed to investigate the impact of a light-duty diesel HPCR fuel system on the stability of 20% biodiesel (B20) blends under conditions of intermittent use and long-term storage in a relatively hot and dry climate. B20 samples with Rancimat induction periods (IPs) near the current 6.0-hour minimum specification (6.5 hr) andmore » roughly double the ASTM specification (13.5 hr) were prepared from a conventional diesel and a highly unsaturated biodiesel. Four 2011 model year Volkswagen Passats equipped with HPCR fuel injection systems were utilized: one on B0, two on B20-6.5 hr, and one on B20-13.5 hr. Each vehicle was operated over a one-hour drive cycle in a hot running loss test cell to initially stress the fuel. The cars were then kept at Volkswagen's Arizona Proving Ground for two (35 degrees C average daily maximum) to six months (26 degrees C average daily maximum). The fuel was then stressed again by running a portion of the one-hour dynamometer drive cycle (limited by the amount of fuel in the tank). Fuel rail and fuel tank samples were analyzed for IP, acid number, peroxide content, polymer content, and ester profile. The HPCR fuel pumps were removed, dismantled, and inspected for deposits or abnormal wear. Analysis of fuels collected during initial dynamometer tests showed no impact of exposure to HPCR conditions. Long-term storage with intermittent use showed that IP remained above 3 hours, acid number below 0.3 mg KOH/g, peroxides low, no change in ester profile, and no production of polymers. Final dynamometer tests produced only small changes in fuel properties. Inspection of the HPCR fuel pumps revealed no deposits or abnormal wear for any fuel. The results provide some confidence that the ASTM D7467 stability requirement of 6 hr. minimum IP for B6 to B20 blends provides adequate protection for modern engine fuel systems.« less

Sampled control stability of the ESA instrument pointing system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thieme, G.; Rogers, P.; Sciacovelli, D.

Stability analysis and simulation results are presented for the ESA Instrument Pointing System (IPS) that is to be used in Spacelab's second launch. Of the two IPS plant dynamic models used in the ESA and NASA activities, one is based on six interconnected rigid bodies that represent the IPS and plant dynamic models used in the ESA and NASA activities, one is based on six interconnected rigid bodies that represent the IPS and its payload, while the other follows the NASA practice of defining an IPS-Spacelab 2 plant configuration through a structural finite element model, which is then used to generate modal data for various pointing directions. In both cases, the IPS dynamic plant model is truncated, then discretized at the sampling frequency and interfaces to a PID-based control law. A stability analysis has been carried out in discrete domain for various instrument pointing directions, taking into account suitable parameter variation ranges. A number of time simulations are presented.

Sensitivity analysis of hydraulic and thermal parameters inducing anomalous heat flow in the Lower Yarmouk Gorge

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Goretzki, Nora; Inbar, Nimrod; Kühn, Michael; Möller, Peter; Rosenthal, Eliyahu; Schneider, Michael; Siebert, Christian; Magri, Fabien

2016-04-01

The Lower Yarmouk Gorge, at the border between Israel and Jordan, is characterized by an anomalous temperature gradient of 46 °C/km. Numerical simulations of thermally-driven flow show that ascending thermal waters are the result of mixed convection, i.e. the interaction between the regional flow from the surrounding heights and buoyant flow within permeable faults [1]. Those models were calibrated against available temperature logs by running several forward problems (FP), with a classic "trial and error" method. In the present study, inverse problems (IP) are applied to find alternative parameter distributions that also lead to the observed thermal anomalies. The investigated physical parameters are hydraulic conductivity and thermal conductivity. To solve the IP, the PEST® code [2] is applied via the graphical interface FEPEST® in FEFLOW® [3]. The results show that both hydraulic and thermal conductivity are consistent with the values determined with the trial and error calibrations, which precede this study. However, the IP indicates that the hydraulic conductivity of the Senonian Paleocene aquitard can be 8.54*10-3 m/d, which is three times lower than the originally estimated value in [1]. Moreover, the IP suggests that the hydraulic conductivity in the faults can increase locally up to 0.17 m/d. These highly permeable areas can be interpreted as local damage zones at the faults/units intersections. They can act as lateral pathways in the deep aquifers that allow deep outflow of thermal water. This presentation provides an example about the application of FP and IP to infer a wide range of parameter values that reproduce observed environmental issues. [1] Magri F, Inbar N, Siebert C, Rosenthal E, Guttman J, Möller P (2015) Transient simulations of large-scale hydrogeological processes causing temperature and salinity anomalies in the Tiberias Basin. Journal of Hydrology, 520, 342-355 [2] Doherty J (2010) PEST: Model-Independent Parameter Estimation. user manual 5th Edition. Watermark, Brisbane, Australia [3] Diersch H.-J.G. (2014) FEFLOW Finite Element Modeling of Flow, Mass and Heat Transport in Porous and Fractured Media. Springer- Verlag Berlin Heidelberg, 996p

Inositol Hexakisphosphate Kinase-3 Regulates the Morphology and Synapse Formation of Cerebellar Purkinje Cells via Spectrin/Adducin

PubMed Central

Fu, Chenglai; Xu, Jing; Li, Ruo-Jing; Crawford, Joshua A.; Khan, A. Basit; Ma, Ting Martin; Cha, Jiyoung Y.; Snowman, Adele M.; Pletnikov, Mikhail V.

2015-01-01

The inositol hexakisphosphate kinases (IP6Ks) are the principal enzymes that generate inositol pyrophosphates. There are three IP6Ks (IP6K1, 2, and 3). Functions of IP6K1 and IP6K2 have been substantially delineated, but little is known of IP6K3's role in normal physiology, especially in the brain. To elucidate functions of IP6K3, we generated mice with targeted deletion of IP6K3. We demonstrate that IP6K3 is highly concentrated in the brain in cerebellar Purkinje cells. IP6K3 physiologically binds to the cytoskeletal proteins adducin and spectrin, whose mutual interactions are perturbed in IP6K3-null mutants. Consequently, IP6K3 knock-out cerebella manifest abnormalities in Purkinje cell structure and synapse number, and the mutant mice display deficits in motor learning and coordination. Thus, IP6K3 is a major determinant of cytoskeletal disposition and function of cerebellar Purkinje cells. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT We identified and cloned a family of three inositol hexakisphosphate kinases (IP6Ks) that generate the inositol pyrophosphates, most notably 5-diphosphoinositol pentakisphosphate (IP7). Of these, IP6K3 has been least characterized. In the present study we generated IP6K3 knock-out mice and show that IP6K3 is highly expressed in cerebellar Purkinje cells. IP6K3-deleted mice display defects of motor learning and coordination. IP6K3-null mice manifest aberrations of Purkinje cells with a diminished number of synapses. IP6K3 interacts with the cytoskeletal proteins spectrin and adducin whose altered disposition in IP6K3 knock-out mice may mediate phenotypic features of the mutant mice. These findings afford molecular/cytoskeletal mechanisms by which the inositol polyphosphate system impacts brain function. PMID:26245967

Effect of separate and combined exposure of selenium and diazinon on rat sperm motility by computer assisted semen analysis.

PubMed

Toman, Robert; Hluchy, Svatoslav; Cabaj, Michal; Massanyi, Peter; Roychoudhury, Shubhadeep; Tunegova, Martina

2016-12-01

Effects of selenium (Se) and diazinon (DZN) on sperm motility parameters in rats were investigated. Male rats received a separate dose of Se (2mgkg -1 b.w., intraperitoneally, 5mgL -1 , per os in drinking water), diazinon (20mgkg -1 b.w., intraperitoneally, 40mgL -1 , per os in drinking water), and in combination (Se+DZN) with the same dosage as in the separate administration. 36h an intraperitoneal (i.p.) and after 90days of per oral (p.o.) exposure, thirteen parameters of sperm motility were evaluated using a Computer Assisted Sperm Analyzer (CASA). Almost all the evaluated sperm motility parameters significantly decreased in Se p.o. exposed groups. In the Se i.p. group decrease was noted only in beat cross frequency (BCF) and progressive motility. Significant decline in the sperm motility, progressive motility, BCF and increase in amplitude of lateral head displacement (ALH) were recorded after DZN i.p. administration. In DZN p.o. group, significant increase in ALH, velocity average path (VAP) and curvilinear velocity (VCL) but decrease in progressive motility and BCF was detected. Se+DZN i.p. administration caused a significant decrease in motility, progressive motility and BCF. Per oral administration of Se+DZN decreased all motility parameters except LIN, WOB and ALH. Sperm abnormalities increased in all experimental conditions. Se and DZN negatively affected sperm structure and function in separate doses or in combination. No protective effect of Se was observed. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.

NLC Luminosity as a Function of Beam Parameters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nosochkov, Y.

2002-06-01

Realistic calculation of NLC luminosity has been performed using particle tracking in DIMAD and beam-beam simulations in GUINEA-PIG code for various values of beam emittance, energy and beta functions at the Interaction Point (IP). Results of the simulations are compared with analytic luminosity calculations. The optimum range of IP beta functions for high luminosity was identified.

Chairside CAD/CAM materials. Part 3: Cyclic fatigue parameters and lifetime predictions.

PubMed

Wendler, Michael; Belli, Renan; Valladares, Diana; Petschelt, Anselm; Lohbauer, Ulrich

2018-06-01

Chemical and mechanical degradation play a key role on the lifetime of dental restorative materials. Therefore, prediction of their long-term performance in the oral environment should base on fatigue, rather than inert strength data, as commonly observed in the dental material's field. The objective of the present study was to provide mechanistic fatigue parameters of current dental CAD/CAM materials under cyclic biaxial flexure and assess their suitability in predicting clinical fracture behaviors. Eight CAD/CAM materials, including polycrystalline zirconia (IPS e.max ZirCAD), reinforced glasses (Vitablocs Mark II, IPS Empress CAD), glass-ceramics (IPS e.max CAD, Suprinity PC, Celtra Duo), as well as hybrid materials (Enamic, Lava Ultimate) were evaluated. Rectangular plates (12×12×1.2mm 3 ) with highly polished surfaces were prepared and tested in biaxial cyclic fatigue in water until fracture using the Ball-on-Three-Balls (B3B) test. Cyclic fatigue parameters n and A* were obtained from the lifetime data for each material and further used to build SPT diagrams. The latter were used to compare in-vitro with in-vivo fracture distributions for IPS e.max CAD and IPS Empress CAD. Susceptibility to subcritical crack growth under cyclic loading was observed for all materials, being more severe (n≤20) in lithium-based glass-ceramics and Vitablocs Mark II. Strength degradations of 40% up to 60% were predicted after only 1 year of service. Threshold stress intensity factors (K th ) representing the onset of subcritical crack growth (SCG), were estimated to lie in the range of 0.37-0.44 of K Ic for the lithium-based glass-ceramics and Vitablocs Mark II and between 0.51-0.59 of K Ic for the other materials. Failure distributions associated with mechanistic estimations of strength degradation in-vitro showed to be useful in interpreting failure behavior in-vivo. The parameter K th stood out as a better predictor of clinical performance in detriment to the SCG n parameter. Fatigue parameters obtained from cyclic loading experiments are more reliable predictors of the mechanical performance of contemporary dental CAD/CAM restoratives than quasi-static mechanical properties. Copyright © 2018 The Academy of Dental Materials. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

ICRF Mode Conversion Flow Drive Experiments on Alcator C-Mod

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lin, Y.; Reinke, M. L.; Rice, J. E.; Wukitch, S. J.; Granetz, R.; Greenwald, M.; Hubbard, A. E.; Marmar, E. S.; Podpaly, Y. A.; Porkolab, M.; Tsujii, N.; Wolfe, S.

2011-12-01

We have carried out a detailed study of the dependence of ICRF mode conversion flow drive (MCFD) on plasma and RF parameters. The flow drive efficiency is found to depend strongly on the 3He concentration in D(3He) plasmas, a key parameter separating the ICRF minority heating regime and mode conversion regime. At +90 ° antenna phasing (waves in the co-Ip direction) and dipole phasing, the driven flow is in the co-Ip direction, and the change of the rotation velocity increases with both PRF and Ip, and scales unfavorably vs. plasma density and antenna frequency. When MCFD is applied to I-mode plasmas, the plasma rotation increases until the onset of MHD modes triggered by large sawtooth crashes. Very high performance I-mode plasmas with HITER98,y2˜1.4 and Te0˜8 keV have been obtained in these experiments.

Photometric studies of δ Scuti stars. I. IP Virginis

USGS Publications Warehouse

Joner, Michael D.; Hintz, Eric G.; Collier, Matthew W.

1998-01-01

We report 15 new times of maximum light for the δ Scuti star IP Virginis (formerly known as SA 106‐1024). An analysis of all times of maximum light indicates that IP Vir has been decreasing in period at a constant rate of − days day−1. Evidence is also presented that IP Vir is a double‐mode variable with a period ratio of . This period ratio predicts a [Fe/H] value of −0.3. From photometric (uvbyβ) observations, we find a foreground reddening of .008 mag and a metallicity of [Fe/H] = +0.05. It is shown that [Fe/H] = −0.3 is most likely the correct value. Intrinsic ‐ and c1‐values, plotted in a model atmosphere grid, indicate a mean effective temperature, K, and a mean surface gravity, . All of these physical parameters support Landolt's initial conclusion that IP Vir is an ordinary δ Sct star.

Autoconfiguration and Service Discovery

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Manner, Jukka

To be useful, IP networking requires various parameters to be set up. A network node needs at least an IP address, routing information, and name services. In a fixed network this configuration is typically done with a centralized scheme, where a server hosts the configuration information and clients query the server with the Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP). Companies, university campuses and even home broadband use the DHCP system to configure hosts. This signaling happens in the background, and users seldom need to think about it; only when things are not working properly, manual intervention is needed. The same protocol can be used in mobile networks, where the client device communicates with the access network provider and his DHCP service. The core information provided by DHCP includes a unique IP address for the host, the IP address of the closest IP router for routing messages to other networks, and the location of domain name servers.

Rationale, Scenarios, and Profiles for the Application of the Internet Protocol Suite (IPS) in Space Operations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Benbenek, Daniel B.; Walsh, William

2010-01-01

This greenbook captures some of the current, planned and possible future uses of the Internet Protocol (IP) as part of Space Operations. It attempts to describe how the Internet Protocol is used in specific scenarios. Of primary focus is low-earth-orbit space operations, which is referred to here as the design reference mission (DRM). This is because most of the program experience drawn upon derives from this type of mission. Application profiles are provided. This includes parameter settings programs have proposed for sending IP datagrams over CCSDS links, the minimal subsets and features of the IP protocol suite and applications expected for interoperability between projects, and the configuration, operations and maintenance of these IP functions. Of special interest is capturing the lessons learned from the Constellation Program in this area, since that program included a fairly ambitious use of the Internet Protocol.

Does depression decrease the moderating effect of self-efficacy in the relationship between illness perception and fear of progression in breast cancer?

PubMed

Shim, Eun-Jung; Lee, Jong Won; Min, Yul Ha

2018-02-01

Fear of progression (FOP) is a prevalent concern among breast cancer patients that affect their adjustment to disease. This study examined whether self-efficacy moderates the effect of illness perception (IP) on FOP and whether the moderating effect of self-efficacy depends on the level of depressive symptoms. A cross-sectional survey including brief illness perception questionnaire (BIPQ), FOP short form, general self-efficacy scale, and the center for epidemiologic studies depression scale were administered to 245 patients with breast cancer in Korea. Self-efficacy moderated the negative impact of the patients' perception of chronic timeline and a greater emotional impact of the illness on FOP. However, the moderating effect of self-efficacy of the BIPQ timeline and emotions on FOP depended on level of depressive symptoms. The findings underscore the importance of considering the IP as determinants of FOP, as well as of self-efficacy and depression as the moderating factors in the relationship between IP and FOP, suggesting the need to enhance self-efficacy and depressive symptoms in order to compensate the negative impact of IP on FOP in breast cancer patients. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Inhibition of P-Glycoprotein Mediated Efflux in Caco-2 Cells by Phytic Acid.

PubMed

Li, Lujia; Fu, Qingxue; Xia, Mengxin; Xin, Lei; Shen, Hongyi; Li, Guowen; Ji, Guang; Meng, Qianchao; Xie, Yan

2018-01-31

Phytic acid (IP6) is a natural phosphorylated inositol, which is abundantly present in most cereal grains and seeds. This study investigated the effects of IP6 regulation on P-glycoprotein (P-gp) and its potential mechanisms using in situ and in vitro models. The effective permeability of the typical P-gp substrate rhodamine 123 (R123) in colon was significantly increased from (1.69 ± 0.22) × 10 -5 cm/s in the control group to (3.39 ± 0.417) × 10 -5 cm/s (p < 0.01) in the 3.5 mM IP6 group. Additionally, IP6 can concentration-dependently decrease the R123 efflux ratio in both Caco-2 and MDCK II-MDR1 cell monolayers and increase intracellular R123 accumulation in Caco-2 cells. Furthermore, IP6 noncompetitively inhibited P-gp by impacting R123 efflux kinetics. The noncompetitive inhibition of P-gp by IP6 was likely due to decreases in P-gp ATPase activity and P-gp molecular conformational changes induced by IP6. In summary, IP6 is a promising P-gp inhibitor candidate.

Optimization of process parameters of pulsed TIG welded maraging steel C300

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Deepak, P.; Jualeash, M. J.; Jishnu, J.; Srinivasan, P.; Arivarasu, M.; Padmanaban, R.; Thirumalini, S.

2016-09-01

Pulsed TIG welding technology provides excellent welding performance on thin sections which helps to increase productivity, enhance weld quality, minimize weld costs, and boost operator efficiency and this has drawn the attention of the welding society. Maraging C300 steel is extensively used in defence and aerospace industry and thus its welding becomes an area of paramount importance. In pulsed TIG welding, weld quality depends on the process parameters used. In this work, Pulsed TIG bead-on-plate welding is performed on a 5mm thick maraging C300 plate at different combinations of input parameters: peak current (Ip), base current (Ib) and pulsing frequency (HZ) as per box behnken design with three-levels for each factor. Response surface methodology is utilized for establishing a mathematical model for predicting the weld bead depth. The effect of Ip, Ib and HZ on the weld bead depth is investigated using the developed model. The weld bead depth is found to be affected by all the three parameters. Surface and contour plots developed from regression equation are used to optimize the processing parameters for maximizing the weld bead depth. Optimum values of Ip, Ib and HZ are obtained as 259 A, 120 A and 8 Hz respectively. Using this optimum condition, maximum bead depth of the weld is predicted to be 4.325 mm.

Changes in the Medicare home health care market: the impact of reimbursement policy.

PubMed

Choi, Sunha; Davitt, Joan K

2009-03-01

The Balanced Budget Act of 1997 introduced 2 new reimbursement structures, the Interim Payment System (IPS, 1997-2000) and the Prospective Payment System (PPS, begun October 2000) for Medicare home health agencies (HHAs) under the fee-for-service program. This article describes and compares the impact of these changes on the Medicare home health market from a period before the BBA through the IPS and PPS in relation to agency characteristics. A secondary analysis of 1996, 1999, and 2002 Provider of Services data was conducted on all Medicare-certified HHAs. Frequencies and rates of change were calculated by agency characteristics to describe changes in the number of active agencies through those years. Logistic regression models were used to compare factors associated with market exits under different payment systems. The results indicate dramatic but disproportional changes in response to the IPS and the PPS among Medicare home health care agencies. Agency closures were greater and market entries fewer during the IPS, but more branch offices/subunits were closed during the PPS. Proprietary and freestanding agencies experienced greater volatility throughout, with the greatest number of closures seen in Region VI (Dallas). These results demonstrate the direct impact of policy changes on the home health care market and highlight the need to evaluate policy changes to understand both intended and unintended impacts on health markets. Future research should analyze the effect of these policy changes on other healthcare providers and systems and their impact on health outcomes for Medicare beneficiaries.

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

PubMed

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

2017-07-01

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

Acute effects of pentobarbital, thiopental and urethane on lung oedema induced by alpha-naphthythiourea (ANTU).

PubMed

Sipahi, Emine; Ustün, Hüseyin; Niyazi Ayoglu, Ferruh

2002-03-01

This study was designed to investigate the possible participation of urethane, pentobarbital sodium and thiopental sodium anaesthesia in the lung oedema induced by alpha-naphthylthiourea (ANTU), which is a well known noxious chemical agent in the lung. ANTU when injected intraperitoneally (i.p.) into rats (10 mg x kg (-1) i.p.) produced lung oedema as indicated by an increase in lung weight/body weight (LW/BW) ratio and pleural effusion (PE) reaching a maximum within 4 h. Administration of urethane prior to ANTU, at doses of 100 and 200mg(100g)(-1), elicited a significant and dose-dependent inhibition in LW/BW ratio and PE. Thiopental sodium at doses of 25, 50 mg x kg (-1), also produced a significant and dose-dependent inhibition of both parameters. Prior i.p. injection of pentobarbital sodium at a dose of 40 mg x kg (-1) elicited a significant inhibition in both parameters. These results suggest that i.p. urethane, thiopental sodium and pentobarbital sodium pretreatment have a prophylactic effect on ANTU-induced lung injury in rats. The possible role of the anaesthetics in lung oedema induced by ANTU and the possible underlying mechanisms are discussed. Copyright 2002 Elsevier Science Ltd.

A hierarchical clustering scheme approach to assessment of IP-network traffic using detrended fluctuation analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Takuma, Takehisa; Masugi, Masao

2009-03-01

This paper presents an approach to the assessment of IP-network traffic in terms of the time variation of self-similarity. To get a comprehensive view in analyzing the degree of long-range dependence (LRD) of IP-network traffic, we use a hierarchical clustering scheme, which provides a way to classify high-dimensional data with a tree-like structure. Also, in the LRD-based analysis, we employ detrended fluctuation analysis (DFA), which is applicable to the analysis of long-range power-law correlations or LRD in non-stationary time-series signals. Based on sequential measurements of IP-network traffic at two locations, this paper derives corresponding values for the LRD-related parameter α that reflects the degree of LRD of measured data. In performing the hierarchical clustering scheme, we use three parameters: the α value, average throughput, and the proportion of network traffic that exceeds 80% of network bandwidth for each measured data set. We visually confirm that the traffic data can be classified in accordance with the network traffic properties, resulting in that the combined depiction of the LRD and other factors can give us an effective assessment of network conditions at different times.

Protective effects of epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) on streptozotocin-induced diabetic nephropathy in mice.

PubMed

Yoon, Sang Pil; Maeng, Young Hee; Hong, Ran; Lee, Byung Rai; Kim, Chong Gue; Kim, Hyun Lee; Chung, Jong Hoon; Shin, Byung Chul

2014-10-01

There is increasing evidence suggesting that antioxidants in green tea extracts may protect kidneys on the progression of end-stage renal disease. We investigated the protective impacts of (-)-epigallocatechin 3-O-gallate (EGCG) against streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic nephropathy in mice. The mice were divided into 5 groups (n=10 per group): control (saline, i.p.), STZ (200mg/kg, i.p.), EGCG50 (50mg/kg, S.Q.), EGCG100 (100mg/kg, S.Q.), and EGCG200 (200mg/kg, S.Q.). Animals were sacrificed at scheduled times after EGCG administration and then quantitative and qualitative analysis were performed. Compared with the control group, the STZ group showed an increase in levels of blood glucose, blood urea nitrogen, creatinine and urine protein amounts with a decrease in body weight. All the above parameters were significantly reversed with EGCG treatment, especially in the EGCG100 group. After STZ injection, there was a mesangial proliferation with increased renal osteopontin accumulation and its protein expression in the glomeruli and the proximal tubules. Mice kidneys after EGCG-treatment showed a reduced expression of above parameters and relatively improved histopathological findings. These results indicated that EGCG 100mg/kg might provide an effective protection against STZ-induced diabetic nephropathy in mice by osteopontin suppression. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.

A typology of intellectual property management for public health innovation and access: design considerations for policymakers.

PubMed

Taubman, Antony

2010-01-19

This paper seeks to set the practical discipline of public interest intellectual property (IP) management in public health into its broader policy context. The most immediate and direct impact of IP systems on public welfare results not from international standards nor from national legislation - though these norms are fundamentally important - but rather from the accumulated impact of numerous practical choices whether or not to seek IP protection; where and where not; and how any exclusive rights are deployed, by whom, and to what end. IP management is the essentially practical exercise of limited exclusive rights over protected subject matter, the judicious use of those rights to leverage outcomes that advance an institution's or a firm's objectives. Exclusive rights are used to construct and define knowledge-based relationships, to leverage access to technology and other necessary resources, and to enhance market-based incentives. IP management choices range across a broad spectrum, spanning public domain strategies, open or exclusive licensing, and strong exclusivity. The idea of 'exclusive rights', as a specific legal mechanism, can run counter to expectations of greater openness and accessibility, but actual outcomes will depend very much on how these mechanisms are used in practice. For public interest or public sector institutions concerned with health research and development, particularly the development of new medicines, IP management choices can be just as critical as they are for private firms, although a predominant institutional concentration on advancing direct public interest objectives may lead to significantly different approaches in weighing and exercising practical choices for IP management: even so, a private sector approach should not be conflated with exclusivity as an end in itself, nor need public interest IP management eschew all leverage over IP. This paper offers a tentative framework for a richer typology of those choices, to give a sense of practical options available and the factors that might guide their application, but without advocating any particular approach.

A Typology of Intellectual Property Management for Public Health Innovation and Access: Design Considerations for Policymakers§

PubMed Central

Taubman, Antony

2010-01-01

This paper seeks to set the practical discipline of public interest intellectual property (IP) management in public health into its broader policy context. The most immediate and direct impact of IP systems on public welfare results not from international standards nor from national legislation – though these norms are fundamentally important - but rather from the accumulated impact of numerous practical choices whether or not to seek IP protection; where and where not; and how any exclusive rights are deployed, by whom, and to what end. IP management is the essentially practical exercise of limited exclusive rights over protected subject matter, the judicious use of those rights to leverage outcomes that advance an institution's or a firm's objectives. Exclusive rights are used to construct and define knowledge-based relationships, to leverage access to technology and other necessary resources, and to enhance market-based incentives. IP management choices range across a broad spectrum, spanning public domain strategies, open or exclusive licensing, and strong exclusivity. The idea of ‘exclusive rights’, as a specific legal mechanism, can run counter to expectations of greater openness and accessibility, but actual outcomes will depend very much on how these mechanisms are used in practice. For public interest or public sector institutions concerned with health research and development, particularly the development of new medicines, IP management choices can be just as critical as they are for private firms, although a predominant institutional concentration on advancing direct public interest objectives may lead to significantly different approaches in weighing and exercising practical choices for IP management: even so, a private sector approach should not be conflated with exclusivity as an end in itself, nor need public interest IP management eschew all leverage over IP. This paper offers a tentative framework for a richer typology of those choices, to give a sense of practical options available and the factors that might guide their application, but without advocating any particular approach. PMID:20517487

How 60 Minutes ticked off Illinois Power

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

Not Available

1980-04-01

A November 60 Minutes broadcast on CBS television asserting that costs are out of control at the Illinois Power Co's(IP) Clinton nuclear power project because of management incompetence triggered a series of rebuttals and counter-rebuttals. A review of the events and correspondence during the planning stage and after the broadcast explores the question of construction cost overruns and the economic impact the broadcast had on IP's investors, employees, and customers. A parallel filming by IP was aired to show how the CBS edited the interview with IP officials. IP personnel feel betrayed by what they consider misconceptions and errors inmore » the broadcast and are unhappy that an employee morale problem was worsened. Counter-arguments by both parties indicate a disagreement on both facts and interpretations. (DCK)« less

Prediction of oxidation parameters of purified Kilka fish oil including gallic acid and methyl gallate by adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) and artificial neural network.

PubMed

Asnaashari, Maryam; Farhoosh, Reza; Farahmandfar, Reza

2016-10-01

As a result of concerns regarding possible health hazards of synthetic antioxidants, gallic acid and methyl gallate may be introduced as natural antioxidants to improve oxidative stability of marine oil. Since conventional modelling could not predict the oxidative parameters precisely, artificial neural network (ANN) and neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) modelling with three inputs, including type of antioxidant (gallic acid and methyl gallate), temperature (35, 45 and 55 °C) and concentration (0, 200, 400, 800 and 1600 mg L(-1) ) and four outputs containing induction period (IP), slope of initial stage of oxidation curve (k1 ) and slope of propagation stage of oxidation curve (k2 ) and peroxide value at the IP (PVIP ) were performed to predict the oxidation parameters of Kilka oil triacylglycerols and were compared to multiple linear regression (MLR). The results showed ANFIS was the best model with high coefficient of determination (R(2)  = 0.99, 0.99, 0.92 and 0.77 for IP, k1 , k2 and PVIP , respectively). So, the RMSE and MAE values for IP were 7.49 and 4.92 in ANFIS model. However, they were to be 15.95 and 10.88 and 34.14 and 3.60 for the best MLP structure and MLR, respectively. So, MLR showed the minimum accuracy among the constructed models. Sensitivity analysis based on the ANFIS model suggested a high sensitivity of oxidation parameters, particularly the induction period on concentrations of gallic acid and methyl gallate due to their high antioxidant activity to retard oil oxidation and enhanced Kilka oil shelf life. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry.

Microphysical explanation of the RH-dependent water affinity of biogenic organic aerosol and its importance for climate

DOE PAGES

Rastak, N.; Pajunoja, A.; Acosta Navarro, J. C.; ...

2017-04-28

A large fraction of atmospheric organic aerosol (OA) originates from natural emissions that are oxidized in the atmosphere to form secondary organic aerosol (SOA). Isoprene (IP) and monoterpenes (MT) are the most important precursors of SOA originating from forests. The climate impacts from OA are currently estimated through parameterizations of water uptake that drastically simplify the complexity of OA. We combine laboratory experiments, thermodynamic modeling, field observations, and climate modeling to (1) explain the molecular mechanisms behind RH-dependent SOA water-uptake with solubility and phase separation; (2) show that laboratory data on IP- and MT-SOA hygroscopicity are representative of ambient datamore » with corresponding OA source profiles; and (3) demonstrate the sensitivity of the modeled aerosol climate effect to assumed OA water affinity. We conclude that the commonly used single-parameter hygroscopicity framework can introduce significant error when quantifying the climate effects of organic aerosol. The results highlight the need for better constraints on the overall global OA mass loadings and its molecular composition, including currently underexplored anthropogenic and marine OA sources.« less

Microphysical explanation of the RH-dependent water affinity of biogenic organic aerosol and its importance for climate

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rastak, N.; Pajunoja, A.; Acosta Navarro, J. C.; Ma, J.; Song, M.; Partridge, D. G.; Kirkevâg, A.; Leong, Y.; Hu, W. W.; Taylor, N. F.; Lambe, A.; Cerully, K.; Bougiatioti, A.; Liu, P.; Krejci, R.; Petäjä, T.; Percival, C.; Davidovits, P.; Worsnop, D. R.; Ekman, A. M. L.; Nenes, A.; Martin, S.; Jimenez, J. L.; Collins, D. R.; Topping, D. O.; Bertram, A. K.; Zuend, A.; Virtanen, A.; Riipinen, I.

2017-05-01

A large fraction of atmospheric organic aerosol (OA) originates from natural emissions that are oxidized in the atmosphere to form secondary organic aerosol (SOA). Isoprene (IP) and monoterpenes (MT) are the most important precursors of SOA originating from forests. The climate impacts from OA are currently estimated through parameterizations of water uptake that drastically simplify the complexity of OA. We combine laboratory experiments, thermodynamic modeling, field observations, and climate modeling to (1) explain the molecular mechanisms behind RH-dependent SOA water-uptake with solubility and phase separation; (2) show that laboratory data on IP- and MT-SOA hygroscopicity are representative of ambient data with corresponding OA source profiles; and (3) demonstrate the sensitivity of the modeled aerosol climate effect to assumed OA water affinity. We conclude that the commonly used single-parameter hygroscopicity framework can introduce significant error when quantifying the climate effects of organic aerosol. The results highlight the need for better constraints on the overall global OA mass loadings and its molecular composition, including currently underexplored anthropogenic and marine OA sources.

Event-by-Event Anisotropic Flow in Heavy-ion Collisions from Combined Yang-Mills and Viscous Fluid Dynamics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gale, Charles; Jeon, Sangyong; Schenke, Björn; Tribedy, Prithwish; Venugopalan, Raju

2013-01-01

Anisotropic flow coefficients v1-v5 in heavy ion collisions are computed by combining a classical Yang-Mills description of the early time Glasma flow with the subsequent relativistic viscous hydrodynamic evolution of matter through the quark-gluon plasma and hadron gas phases. The Glasma dynamics, as realized in the impact parameter dependent Glasma (IP-Glasma) model, takes into account event-by-event geometric fluctuations in nucleon positions and intrinsic subnucleon scale color charge fluctuations; the preequilibrium flow of matter is then matched to the music algorithm describing viscous hydrodynamic flow and particle production at freeze-out. The IP-Glasma+MUSIC model describes well both transverse momentum dependent and integrated vn data measured at the Large Hadron Collider and the Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider. The model also reproduces the event-by-event distributions of v2, v3 and v4 measured by the ATLAS Collaboration. The implications of our results for better understanding of the dynamics of the Glasma and for the extraction of transport properties of the quark-gluon plasma are outlined.

Microphysical explanation of the RH-dependent water affinity of biogenic organic aerosol and its importance for climate.

PubMed

Rastak, N; Pajunoja, A; Acosta Navarro, J C; Ma, J; Song, M; Partridge, D G; Kirkevåg, A; Leong, Y; Hu, W W; Taylor, N F; Lambe, A; Cerully, K; Bougiatioti, A; Liu, P; Krejci, R; Petäjä, T; Percival, C; Davidovits, P; Worsnop, D R; Ekman, A M L; Nenes, A; Martin, S; Jimenez, J L; Collins, D R; Topping, D O; Bertram, A K; Zuend, A; Virtanen, A; Riipinen, I

2017-05-28

A large fraction of atmospheric organic aerosol (OA) originates from natural emissions that are oxidized in the atmosphere to form secondary organic aerosol (SOA). Isoprene (IP) and monoterpenes (MT) are the most important precursors of SOA originating from forests. The climate impacts from OA are currently estimated through parameterizations of water uptake that drastically simplify the complexity of OA. We combine laboratory experiments, thermodynamic modeling, field observations, and climate modeling to (1) explain the molecular mechanisms behind RH-dependent SOA water-uptake with solubility and phase separation; (2) show that laboratory data on IP- and MT-SOA hygroscopicity are representative of ambient data with corresponding OA source profiles; and (3) demonstrate the sensitivity of the modeled aerosol climate effect to assumed OA water affinity. We conclude that the commonly used single-parameter hygroscopicity framework can introduce significant error when quantifying the climate effects of organic aerosol. The results highlight the need for better constraints on the overall global OA mass loadings and its molecular composition, including currently underexplored anthropogenic and marine OA sources.

Microphysical explanation of the RH-dependent water affinity of biogenic organic aerosol and its importance for climate

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

Rastak, N.; Pajunoja, A.; Acosta Navarro, J. C.

A large fraction of atmospheric organic aerosol (OA) originates from natural emissions that are oxidized in the atmosphere to form secondary organic aerosol (SOA). Isoprene (IP) and monoterpenes (MT) are the most important precursors of SOA originating from forests. The climate impacts from OA are currently estimated through parameterizations of water uptake that drastically simplify the complexity of OA. We combine laboratory experiments, thermodynamic modeling, field observations, and climate modeling to (1) explain the molecular mechanisms behind RH-dependent SOA water-uptake with solubility and phase separation; (2) show that laboratory data on IP- and MT-SOA hygroscopicity are representative of ambient datamore » with corresponding OA source profiles; and (3) demonstrate the sensitivity of the modeled aerosol climate effect to assumed OA water affinity. We conclude that the commonly used single-parameter hygroscopicity framework can introduce significant error when quantifying the climate effects of organic aerosol. The results highlight the need for better constraints on the overall global OA mass loadings and its molecular composition, including currently underexplored anthropogenic and marine OA sources.« less

An Impact Assessment Model for Distributed Adaptive Security Situation Assessment

DTIC Science & Technology

2005-01-01

the cargo manifest can be either a 56K modem-based TCP/IP connection (the oval labeled internet) or a 40K wireless modem connection ( cell phone ) that...via a UDP connection on the 40K wireless modem ( cell phone ). For each resource, either alternative may be used to achieve the same goal, but some...Manifests Comm-in Comp- power Comm- out JTF Internet (TCP-IP) Cell phone (TCP-IP) Internet (UDP) Cell phone (UDP) Manual Computer 4

Racial discrimination, racial identity, and impostor phenomenon: A profile approach.

PubMed

Bernard, Donte L; Hoggard, Lori S; Neblett, Enrique W

2018-01-01

This study examined the association between racial discrimination and the impostor phenomenon (IP) and the moderating influence of racial identity on this relationship. One hundred fifty-seven African American college students (68% female; mean age = 18.63) completed measures of racial discrimination, racial identity, and IP during 2 waves of data collection. Utilizing latent profile analyses, 4 patterns of racial identity were identified: Undifferentiated, Multiculturalist, Race-Focused, and Humanist. Racial discrimination predicted higher subsequent levels of IP. Racial identity did not moderate the impact of racial discrimination; however, students in the Multiculturalist and Humanist groups reported the lowest and highest levels of IP at Wave 2, respectively. IP is influenced by racial discrimination experiences as well as by the significance and meaning that individuals ascribe to being African American. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2018 APA, all rights reserved).

Benthic invertebrate density, biomass, and instantaneous secondary production along a fifth-order human-impacted tropical river.

PubMed

Aguiar, Anna Carolina Fornero; Gücker, Björn; Brauns, Mario; Hille, Sandra; Boëchat, Iola Gonçalves

2015-07-01

The aim of this study was to assess land use effects on the density, biomass, and instantaneous secondary production (IP) of benthic invertebrates in a fifth-order tropical river. Invertebrates were sampled at 11 stations along the Rio das Mortes (upper Rio Grande, Southeast Brazil) in the dry and the rainy season 2010/2011. Invertebrates were counted, determined, and measured to estimate their density, biomass, and IP. Water chemical characteristics, sediment heterogeneity, and habitat structural integrity were assessed in parallel. Total invertebrate density, biomass, and IP were higher in the dry season than those in the rainy season, but did not differ significantly among sampling stations along the river. However, taxon-specific density, biomass, and IP differed similarly among sampling stations along the river and between seasons, suggesting that these metrics had the same bioindication potential. Variability in density, biomass, and IP was mainly explained by seasonality and the percentage of sandy sediment in the riverbed, and not directly by urban or agricultural land use. Our results suggest that the consistently high degradation status of the river, observed from its headwaters to mouth, weakened the response of the invertebrate community to specific land use impacts, so that only local habitat characteristics and seasonality exerted effects.

Temperature Dependence of IP3-Mediated Local and Global Ca2+ Signals

PubMed Central

Dickinson, George D.; Parker, Ian

2013-01-01

We examined the effect of temperature (12–40°C) on local and global Ca2+ signals mediated by inositol trisphosphate receptor/channels (IP3R) in human neuroblastoma (SH-SY5Y) cells. The amplitudes and spatial spread of local signals arising from single IP3R (blips) and clusters of IP3R (puffs) showed little temperature dependence, whereas their kinetics (durations and latencies) were markedly accelerated by increasing temperature. In contrast, the amplitude of global Ca2+ waves increased appreciably at lower temperatures, probably as a result of the longer duration of IP3R channel opening. Several parameters, including puff and blip durations, puff latency and frequency, and frequency of repetitive Ca2+ waves, showed a biphasic temperature dependence on Arrhenius plots. In all cases the transition temperature occurred at ∼25°C, possibly reflecting a phase transition in the lipids of the endoplasmic reticulum membrane. Although the IP3-evoked Ca2+ signals were qualitatively similar at 25°C and 36°C, one should consider the temperature sensitivity of IP3-mediated signal amplitudes when extrapolating from room temperature to physiological temperature. Conversely, further cooling may be advantageous to improve the optical resolution of channel gating kinetics. PMID:23442860

Ceramic materials for porcelain veneers: part II. Effect of material, shade, and thickness on translucency.

PubMed

Barizon, Karine T L; Bergeron, Cathia; Vargas, Marcos A; Qian, Fang; Cobb, Deborah S; Gratton, David G; Geraldeli, Saulo

2014-10-01

Information regarding the differences in translucency among new ceramic systems is lacking. The purpose of this study was to compare the relative translucency of the different types of ceramic systems indicated for porcelain veneers and to evaluate the effect of shade and thickness on translucency. Disk specimens 13 mm in diameter and 0.7-mm thick were fabricated for the following 9 materials (n=5): VITA VM9, IPS Empress Esthetic, VITA PM9, Vitablocks Mark II, Kavo Everest G-Blank, IPS Empress CAD, IPS e.max CAD, IPS e.maxPress, and Lava Zirconia. VITA VM9 served as the positive control and Lava as the negative control. The disks were fabricated with the shade that corresponds to A1. For IPS e.maxPress, additional disks were made with different shades (BL2, BL4, A1, B1, O1, O2, V1, V2, V3), thickness (0.3 mm), and translucencies (high translucency, low translucency). Color coordinates (CIE L∗ a∗ b∗) were measured with a tristimulus colorimeter. The translucency parameter was calculated from the color difference of the material on a black versus a white background. One-way ANOVA, the post hoc Tukey honestly significant difference, and the Ryan-Einot-Gabriel-Welsch multiple range tests were used to analyze the data (α=.05). Statistically significant differences in the translucency parameter were found among porcelains (P<.001) according to the following rank: VM9>PM9, Empress Esthetic>Empress CAD>Mark II, Everest, e.max CAD>e.max Press>Lava. Significant differences also were noted when different shades and thickness were compared (P<.001). Different ceramic systems designed for porcelain veneers present varying degrees of translucency. The thickness and shade of lithium disilicate ceramic affect its translucency. Shade affects translucency parameter less than thickness. Copyright © 2014 Editorial Council for the Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Circadian Behavioral Responses to Light and Optic Chiasm-Evoked Glutamatergic EPSCs in the Suprachiasmatic Nucleus of ipRGC Conditional vGlut2 Knock-Out Mice

PubMed Central

2018-01-01

Abstract Intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs) innervate the hypothalamic suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), a circadian oscillator that functions as a biological clock. ipRGCs use vesicular glutamate transporter 2 (vGlut2) to package glutamate into synaptic vesicles and light-evoked resetting of the SCN circadian clock is widely attributed to ipRGC glutamatergic neurotransmission. Pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) is also packaged into vesicles in ipRGCs and PACAP may be coreleased with glutamate in the SCN. vGlut2 has been conditionally deleted in ipRGCs in mice [conditional knock-outs (cKOs)] and their aberrant photoentrainment and residual attenuated light responses have been ascribed to ipRGC PACAP release. However, there is no direct evidence that all ipRGC glutamatergic neurotransmission is eliminated in vGlut2 cKOs. Here, we examined two lines of ipRGC vGlut2 cKO mice for SCN-mediated behavioral responses under several lighting conditions and for ipRGC glutamatergic neurotransmission in the SCN. Circadian behavioral responses varied from a very limited response to light to near normal photoentrainment. After collecting behavioral data, hypothalamic slices were prepared and evoked EPSCs (eEPSCs) were recorded from SCN neurons by stimulating the optic chiasm. In cKOs, glutamatergic eEPSCs were recorded and all eEPSC parameters examined (stimulus threshold, amplitude, rise time or time-to-peak and stimulus strength to evoke a maximal response) were similar to controls. We conclude that a variable number but functionally significant percentage of ipRGCs in two vGlut2 cKO mouse lines continue to release glutamate. Thus, the residual SCN-mediated light responses in these cKO mouse lines cannot be attributed solely to ipRGC PACAP release. PMID:29756029

Influence of Security Mechanisms on the Quality of Service of VoIP

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Backs, Peter; Pohlmann, Norbert

While Voice over IP (VoIP) is advancing rapidly in the telecommunications market, the interest to protect the data transmitted by this new service is also rising. However, in contrast to other internet services such as email or HTTP, VoIP is real-time media, and therefore must meet a special requirement referred to as Quality-of-Service to provide a comfortable flow of speech. Speech quality is worsened when transmitted over the network due to delays in transmission or loss of packets. Often, voice quality is at a level that even prevents comprehensive dialog. Therefore, an administrator who is to setup a VoIP infrastructure might consider avoiding additional decreases in voice quality resulting from security mechanisms, and might leave internet telephony unprotected as a result. The inspiration for this paper is to illustrate that security mechanisms have negligible impact on speech quality and should in fact be encouraged.

Unanticipated region- and cell-specific downregulation of individual KChIP auxiliary subunit isotypes in Kv4.2 knock-out mouse brain.

PubMed

Menegola, Milena; Trimmer, James S

2006-11-22

Kv4 family voltage-gated potassium channel alpha subunits and Kv channel-interacting protein (KChIP) and dipeptidyl aminopeptidase-like protein subunits comprise somatodendritic A-type channels in mammalian neurons. Recently, a mouse was generated with a targeted deletion of Kv4.2, a Kv4 alpha subunit expressed in many but not all mammalian brain neurons. Kv4.2-/- mice are grossly indistinguishable from wild-type (WT) littermates. Here we used immunohistochemistry to analyze expression of component Kv4 and KChIP subunits of A-type channels in WT and Kv4.2-/- brains. We found that the expression level, and cellular and subcellular distribution of the other prominent brain Kv4 family member Kv4.3, was indistinguishable between WT and Kv4.2-/- samples. However, we found unanticipated regional and cell-specific decreases in expression of KChIPs. The degree of altered expression of individual KChIP isoforms in different regions and neurons precisely follows the level of Kv4.2 normally found at those sites and presumably their extent of association of these KChIPs with Kv4.2. The dramatic effects of Kv4.2 deletion on KChIP expression suggest that, in addition to previously characterized effects of KChIPs on the functional properties, trafficking, and turnover rate of Kv4 channels, Kv4:KChIP association may confer reciprocal Kv4.2-dependent effects on KChIPs. The impact of Kv4.2 deletion on KChIP expression also supports the major role of KChIPs as auxiliary subunits of Kv4 channels.

Parametric Optimization of Wire Electrical Discharge Machining of Powder Metallurgical Cold Worked Tool Steel using Taguchi Method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sudhakara, Dara; Prasanthi, Guvvala

2017-04-01

Wire Cut EDM is an unconventional machining process used to build components of complex shape. The current work mainly deals with optimization of surface roughness while machining P/M CW TOOL STEEL by Wire cut EDM using Taguchi method. The process parameters of the Wire Cut EDM is ON, OFF, IP, SV, WT, and WP. L27 OA is used for to design of the experiments for conducting experimentation. In order to find out the effecting parameters on the surface roughness, ANOVA analysis is engaged. The optimum levels for getting minimum surface roughness is ON = 108 µs, OFF = 63 µs, IP = 11 A, SV = 68 V and WT = 8 g.

Impact of gastric acidic challenge on surface topography and optical properties of monolithic zirconia.

PubMed

Sulaiman, Taiseer A; Abdulmajeed, Aous A; Shahramian, Khalil; Hupa, Leena; Donovan, Terrence E; Vallittu, Pekka; Närhi, Timo O

2015-12-01

To evaluate the surface topography and optical properties of monolithic zirconia after immersion in simulated gastric acid. Four partially stabilized (PSZ) and one fully stabilized (FSZ) zirconia materials were selected for the study: Prettau (PRT, Zirkonzahn), Zenostar (ZEN, Ivoclar), Bruxzir (BRX, Glidewell), Katana (KAT, Noritake) and FSZ Prettau Anterior (PRTA, Zirkonzahn). IPS e.max (Ivoclar) was used as a control. The specimens (10×10×1.2mm, n=5 per material) were cut, sintered, polished and cleaned before immersed in 5ml of simulated gastric acid solution (Hydrochloric acid (HCl) 0.06M, 0.113% solution in deionized distal water, pH 1.2) for 96h in a 37°C incubator. Specimens were weighed and examined for morphological changes under scanning electron microscope (SEM) coupled with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). Surface roughness was evaluated by a confocal microscope. Surface gloss and translucency parameter (TP) values were determined by a reflection spectrophotometer before and after acid immersion. The data was analyzed by one-way ANOVA followed by Tukey's HSD post hoc test (p<0.05). PRTA displayed the most weight loss (1.40%) among the zirconia specimens. IPS e.max showed about three times more weight loss (3.05%) than zirconia specimens as an average. SEM examination indicated areas of degradation, bead-like shapes and smoothening of the polishing scratches after acid immersion. EDX displayed ion interactions and possible ion leaching from all specimens. Sa and Sq values for PRTA, ZEN and IPS e.max were significantly lower (p<0.05) after acid immersion. TP values increased significantly for PRT, ZEN and IPS e.max (p<0.05), while the surface gloss of ZEN, PRTA and IPS e.max increased (p<0.05). Monolithic zirconia materials show some surface alterations in an acidic environment with minimum effect on their optical properties. Whether a smoother surface is in fact a sign of true corrosion resistance or is purely the result of an evenly progressive corrosive process is yet to be confirmed by further research. Copyright © 2015 Academy of Dental Materials. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

IP-10 measured by Dry Plasma Spots as biomarker for therapy responses in Mycobacterium Tuberculosis infection.

PubMed

Tonby, Kristian; Ruhwald, Morten; Kvale, Dag; Dyrhol-Riise, Anne Ma

2015-03-18

Tuberculosis (TB) has huge impact on human morbidity and mortality and biomarkers to support rapid TB diagnosis and ensure treatment initiation and cure are needed, especially in regions with high prevalence of multi-drug resistant TB. Soluble interferon gamma inducible protein 10 (IP-10) analyzed from dry plasma spots (DPS) has potential as an immunodiagnostic marker in TB infection. We analyzed IP-10 levels in plasma directly and extracted from DPS in parallel by ELISA from 34 clinically well characterized patients with TB disease before and throughout 24 weeks of effective anti-TB chemotherapy. We detected a significant decline of IP-10 levels in both plasma and DPS already after two weeks of therapy with good correlation between the tests. This was observed both in pulmonary and extrapulmonary TB. In conclusion, plasma IP-10 may serve as an early biomarker for anti-TB chemotherapy responses and the IP-10 DPS method has potential to be developed into a point-of care test for use in resource-limited settings. Further studies must be performed to validate the use of IP-10 DPS in TB high endemic countries.

Importance of log size on host selection and reproductive success of Ips pini (Coleoptera: Scolytidae) in ponderosa pine slash of northern Arizona and western Montana

Treesearch

Brytten E. Steed; Michael R. Wagner

2004-01-01

Pine engraver, Ips pini (Say), often use thinning slash, and their populations are known to be influenced by the condition of this material. In our study, we evaluated the importance of three log diameters (5, 10, and 20 cm) and three lengths (60, 120, and 240 cm) on various parameters of bark beetle host attack, development, and emergence....

Impact of a New Teaching and Learning Approach in an Introductory Programming Course

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Iqbal Malik, Sohail; Coldwell-Neilson, Jo

2017-01-01

High failure and dropout rates are reported in introductory programming (IP) courses in different studies despite extensive research attempting to address the issue. In this study, we introduced an ADRI (Approach, Deployment, Result, Improvement) approach in the teaching and learning process of an IP course to improve learning and success rates.…

An evaluation of the opportunities for collaborative practice occurring in and the impact of interprofessional education on advanced pharmacy practice experiences.

PubMed

Umland, Elena M; Valenzano, Jonathan; Brown, Caitlin; Giordano, Carolyn

2017-05-01

To evaluate the impact of interprofessional (IP) education (IPE) programs during the first three years of a four-year doctor of pharmacy program on student preparedness and ability to function as a collaborative team member and to garner student feedback on collaboration experienced during the Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experiences (APPEs). Likert scale based statements and open-ended questions were added to the student course evaluations for the APPEs for two graduating classes of students. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS (repeated measures ANOVA and MANOVA). Thematic analysis by three reviewers reaching consensus was used to evaluate the qualitative data. Students reported being well prepared for IP collaboration (average ratings ranged from a mean of 3.37-3.46 on a scale of 1-4; 1=not at all prepared and 4=very well prepared). On average, students spent 26-50% of their time working with colleagues from other healthcare professions. In describing their preparedness for IP collaboration, the IP core competency of teams/teamwork was addressed in 50% of the submitted responses. The competencies of values/ethics, roles/responsibilities and IP communication were addressed by 2%, 20% and 28% of the written responses, respectively. Required longitudinal IP programs in the first three years of the pharmacy curriculum contribute to the students' perceived preparedness for collaborative practice during their APPEs. Developing practice sites to increase the opportunities for students to practice collaboratively is key. Further education of and emphasis by preceptors relative to the IPE competencies is desired. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Proposed DoD (Department of Defense) Internet Protocol Standard.

DTIC Science & Technology

1982-07-06

parameters fall into two categories: service quality parameters and service options. Service quality parameters influence the transmission service provided...Corporation 6 July 1982 -7- TM-7172/481/OO o Service Quality Parameters - Precedence : attempts preferential treatment for high importance datagrams...select the transmission quality. IP passes the type of service (TOS) command set for service quality to the SNP where it is mapped into subnetwork

Neuronal calcium wave propagation varies with changes in endoplasmic reticulum parameters: a computer model

PubMed Central

Neymotin, Samuel A.; McDougal, Robert A.; Sherif, Mohamed A.; Fall, Christopher P.; Hines, Michael L.; Lytton, William W.

2015-01-01

Calcium (Ca2+) waves provide a complement to neuronal electrical signaling, forming a key part of a neuron’s second messenger system. We developed a reaction-diffusion model of an apical dendrite with diffusible inositol triphosphate (IP3), diffusible Ca2+, IP3 receptors (IP3Rs), endoplasmic reticulum (ER) Ca2+ leak, and ER pump (SERCA) on ER. Ca2+ is released from ER stores via IP3Rs upon binding of IP3 and Ca2+. This results in Ca2+-induced-Ca2+-release (CICR) and increases Ca2+ spread. At least two modes of Ca2+ wave spread have been suggested: a continuous mode based on presumed relative homogeneity of ER within the cell; and a pseudo-saltatory model where Ca2+ regeneration occurs at discrete points with diffusion between them. We compared the effects of three patterns of hypothesized IP3R distribution: 1. continuous homogeneous ER, 2. hotspots with increased IP3R density (IP3R hotspots), 3. areas of increased ER density (ER stacks). All three modes produced Ca2+ waves with velocities similar to those measured in vitro (~50–90µm /sec). Continuous ER showed high sensitivity to IP3R density increases, with time to onset reduced and speed increased. Increases in SERCA density resulted in opposite effects. The measures were sensitive to changes in density and spacing of IP3R hotspots and stacks. Increasing the apparent diffusion coefficient of Ca2+ substantially increased wave speed. An extended electrochemical model, including voltage gated calcium channels and AMPA synapses, demonstrated that membrane priming via AMPA stimulation enhances subsequent Ca2+ wave amplitude and duration. Our modeling suggests that pharmacological targeting of IP3Rs and SERCA could allow modulation of Ca2+ wave propagation in diseases where Ca2+ dysregulation has been implicated. PMID:25734493

Induced unconventional superconductivity on the surface states of Bi2Te3 topological insulator.

PubMed

Charpentier, Sophie; Galletti, Luca; Kunakova, Gunta; Arpaia, Riccardo; Song, Yuxin; Baghdadi, Reza; Wang, Shu Min; Kalaboukhov, Alexei; Olsson, Eva; Tafuri, Francesco; Golubev, Dmitry; Linder, Jacob; Bauch, Thilo; Lombardi, Floriana

2017-12-08

Topological superconductivity is central to a variety of novel phenomena involving the interplay between topologically ordered phases and broken-symmetry states. The key ingredient is an unconventional order parameter, with an orbital component containing a chiral p x  + ip y wave term. Here we present phase-sensitive measurements, based on the quantum interference in nanoscale Josephson junctions, realized by using Bi 2 Te 3 topological insulator. We demonstrate that the induced superconductivity is unconventional and consistent with a sign-changing order parameter, such as a chiral p x  + ip y component. The magnetic field pattern of the junctions shows a dip at zero externally applied magnetic field, which is an incontrovertible signature of the simultaneous existence of 0 and π coupling within the junction, inherent to a non trivial order parameter phase. The nano-textured morphology of the Bi 2 Te 3 flakes, and the dramatic role played by thermal strain are the surprising key factors for the display of an unconventional induced order parameter.

Vented versus unvented chest seals for treatment of pneumothorax and prevention of tension pneumothorax in a swine model.

PubMed

Kheirabadi, Bijan S; Terrazas, Irasema B; Koller, Alexandra; Allen, Paul B; Klemcke, Harold G; Convertino, Victor A; Dubick, Michael A; Gerhardt, Robert T; Blackbourne, Lorne H

2013-07-01

Unvented chest seals (CSs) are currently recommended for the management of penetrating thoracic injuries in the battlefield. Since no supporting data exist, we compared the efficacy of a preferred unvented with that of a vented CS in a novel swine model of pneumothorax (PTx). An open chest wound was created in the left thorax of spontaneously air-breathing anesthetized pigs (n = 8). A CS was applied over the injury, then tension PTx was induced by incremental air injections (0.2 L) into the pleural cavity via a cannula that was also used to measure intrapleural pressure (IP). Both CS were tested on each pig in series. Tidal volume (V(T)), respiratory rate, IP, heart rate, mean arterial pressure, cardiac output, central venous pressure, pulmonary arterial pressure, venous and peripheral oxygen saturations (SvO2, SpO2) were recorded. Tension PTx was defined as a mean IP equal to or greater than +1 mm Hg plus significant (20-30%) deviation in baseline levels of the previously mentioned parameters and confirmed by chest x-ray study. PaO2 and PaCo2 were also measured. PTx produced immediate breathing difficulty and significant rises in IP and pulmonary arterial pressure and falls in V(T), SpO2, and SvO2. Both CSs returned these parameters to near baseline within 5 minutes of application. After vented CS was applied, serial air injections up to 2 L resulted in no significant change in the previously mentioned parameters. After unvented CS application, progressive deterioration of all respiratory parameters and onset of tension PTx were observed in all subjects after approximately 1.4-L air injection. Both vented and unvented CSs provided immediate improvements in breathing and blood oxygenation in our model of penetrating thoracic trauma. However, in the presence of ongoing intrapleural air accumulation, the unvented CS led to tension PTx, hypoxemia, and possible respiratory arrest, while the vented CS prevented these outcomes.

Utility of sepsis biomarkers and the infection probability score to discriminate sepsis and systemic inflammatory response syndrome in standard care patients.

PubMed

Ratzinger, Franz; Schuardt, Michael; Eichbichler, Katherina; Tsirkinidou, Irene; Bauer, Marlene; Haslacher, Helmuth; Mitteregger, Dieter; Binder, Michael; Burgmann, Heinz

2013-01-01

Physicians are regularly faced with severely ill patients at risk of developing infections. In literature, standard care wards are often neglected, although their patients frequently suffer from a systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) of unknown origin. Fast identification of patients with infections is vital, as they immediately require appropriate therapy. Further, tools with a high negative predictive value (NPV) to exclude infection or bacteremia are important to increase the cost effectiveness of microbiological examinations and to avoid inappropriate antibiotic treatment. In this prospective cohort study, 2,384 patients with suspected infections were screened for suffering from two or more SIRS criteria on standard care wards. The infection probability score (IPS) and sepsis biomarkers with discriminatory power were assessed regarding their capacity to identify infection or bacteremia. In this cohort finally consisting of 298 SIRS-patients, the infection prevalence was 72%. Bacteremia was found in 25% of cases. For the prediction of infection, the IPS yielded 0.51 ROC-AUC (30.1% sensitivity, 64.6% specificity). Among sepsis biomarkers, lipopolysaccharide binding protein (LBP) was the best parameter with 0.63 ROC-AUC (57.5% sensitivity, 67.1% specificity). For the prediction of bacteremia, the IPS performed slightly better with a ROC-AUC of 0.58 (21.3% sensitivity, 65% specificity). Procalcitonin was the best discriminator with 0.78 ROC-AUC, 86.3% sensitivity, 59.6% specificity and 92.9% NPV. Furthermore, bilirubin and LBP (ROC-AUC: 0.65, 0.62) might also be considered as useful parameters. In summary, the IPS and widely used infection parameters, including CRP or WBC, yielded a poor diagnostic performance for the detection of infection or bacteremia. Additional sepsis biomarkers do not aid in discriminating inflammation from infection. For the prediction of bacteremia procalcitonin, and bilirubin were the most promising parameters, which might be used as a rule for when to take blood cultures or using nucleic acid amplification tests for microbiological diagnostics.

The impact of compression of speech signal, background noise and acoustic disturbances on the effectiveness of speaker identification

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kamiński, K.; Dobrowolski, A. P.

2017-04-01

The paper presents the architecture and the results of optimization of selected elements of the Automatic Speaker Recognition (ASR) system that uses Gaussian Mixture Models (GMM) in the classification process. Optimization was performed on the process of selection of individual characteristics using the genetic algorithm and the parameters of Gaussian distributions used to describe individual voices. The system that was developed was tested in order to evaluate the impact of different compression methods used, among others, in landline, mobile, and VoIP telephony systems, on effectiveness of the speaker identification. Also, the results were presented of effectiveness of speaker identification at specific levels of noise with the speech signal and occurrence of other disturbances that could appear during phone calls, which made it possible to specify the spectrum of applications of the presented ASR system.

New Geophysical Technique for Mineral Exploration and Mineral Discrimination Based on Electromagnetic Methods

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

Michael S. Zhdanov

2005-03-09

The research during the first year of the project was focused on developing the foundations of a new geophysical technique for mineral exploration and mineral discrimination, based on electromagnetic (EM) methods. The proposed new technique is based on examining the spectral induced polarization effects in electromagnetic data using modern distributed acquisition systems and advanced methods of 3-D inversion. The analysis of IP phenomena is usually based on models with frequency dependent complex conductivity distribution. One of the most popular is the Cole-Cole relaxation model. In this progress report we have constructed and analyzed a different physical and mathematical model ofmore » the IP effect based on the effective-medium theory. We have developed a rigorous mathematical model of multi-phase conductive media, which can provide a quantitative tool for evaluation of the type of mineralization, using the conductivity relaxation model parameters. The parameters of the new conductivity relaxation model can be used for discrimination of the different types of rock formations, which is an important goal in mineral exploration. The solution of this problem requires development of an effective numerical method for EM forward modeling in 3-D inhomogeneous media. During the first year of the project we have developed a prototype 3-D IP modeling algorithm using the integral equation (IP) method. Our IE forward modeling code INTEM3DIP is based on the contraction IE method, which improves the convergence rate of the iterative solvers. This code can handle various types of sources and receivers to compute the effect of a complex resistivity model. We have tested the working version of the INTEM3DIP code for computer simulation of the IP data for several models including a southwest US porphyry model and a Kambalda-style nickel sulfide deposit. The numerical modeling study clearly demonstrates how the various complex resistivity models manifest differently in the observed EM data. These modeling studies lay a background for future development of the IP inversion method, directed at determining the electrical conductivity and the intrinsic chargeability distributions, as well as the other parameters of the relaxation model simultaneously. The new technology envisioned in this proposal, will be used for the discrimination of different rocks, and in this way will provide an ability to distinguish between uneconomic mineral deposits and the location of zones of economic mineralization and geothermal resources.« less

Towards a 21st century telephone exchange at CERN

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Valentín, F.; Hesnaux, A.; Sierra, R.; Chapron, F.

2015-12-01

The advent of mobile telephony and Voice over IP (VoIP) has significantly impacted the traditional telephone exchange industry—to such an extent that private branch exchanges are likely to disappear completely in the near future. For large organisations, such as CERN, it is important to be able to smooth this transition by implementing new multimedia platforms that can protect past investments and the flexibility needed to securely interconnect emerging VoIP solutions and forthcoming developments such as Voice over LTE (VoLTE). We present the results of ongoing studies and tests at CERN of the latest technologies in this area.

Analysis of the Digital Evidence Presented in the Yahoo! Case

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kwan, Michael; Chow, Kam-Pui; Lai, Pierre; Law, Frank; Tse, Hayson

The “Yahoo! Case” led to considerable debate about whether or not an IP address is personal data as defined by the Personal Data (Privacy) Ordinance (Chapter 486) of the Laws of Hong Kong. This paper discusses the digital evidence presented in the Yahoo! Case and evaluates the impact of the IP address on the verdict in the case. A Bayesian network is used to quantify the evidentiary strengths of hypotheses in the case and to reason about the evidence. The results demonstrate that the evidence about the IP address was significant to obtaining a conviction in the case.

Impact of daily chlorhexidine baths and hand hygiene compliance on nosocomial infection rates in critically ill patients.

PubMed

Martínez-Reséndez, Michel Fernando; Garza-González, Elvira; Mendoza-Olazaran, Soraya; Herrera-Guerra, Alexis; Rodríguez-López, Juan Manuel; Pérez-Rodriguez, Edelmiro; Mercado-Longoria, Roberto; Camacho-Ortiz, Adrián

2014-07-01

Up to 25% of all nosocomial infections (NIs) develop in critically ill patients. Our objective was to evaluate chlorhexidine (CHX) bathing and hand hygiene (HH) compliance in the reduction of NIs in the intensive care unit. The study comprised three 6-month periods: preintervention (PIP; soap/water bathing), intervention (IP; bathing with CHX-impregnated wipes), and postintervention (PoIP; soap/water bathing). An HH program was implemented during the IP and PoIP. Primary outcomes were global and specific NI rates. A total of 1007 patients were included. Infection rates per 100 discharges were higher in the PIP compared with the IP and also higher in the PoIP compared with the IP (P = .0004 and .0109, respectively). Global infection rates per 1000 hospital-days were higher in the PIP than in the IP (P = .0268). The rates of ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) and catheter-associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI) were higher in the PIP than in the IP (P = .036 and .0001, respectively). Isolation of Acinetobacter baumannii from VAP specimens (P = .0204) and isolation of Candida spp from CAUTI specimens (P = .0005) decreased as well. The combined intervention reduced global and specific infection rates, including rates of VAP associated with A baumannii and CAUTI associated with Candida spp. Copyright © 2014 Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology, Inc. Published by Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

Incorporating Cs and Sr into blast furnace slag inorganic polymers and their effect on matrix properties

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vandevenne, Niels; Iacobescu, Remus Ion; Pontikes, Yiannis; Carleer, Robert; Thijssen, Elsy; Gijbels, Katrijn; Schreurs, Sonja; Schroeyers, Wouter

2018-05-01

Minimizing harmful effects to the environment in waste-management practices requires continuous innovation. This is especially important in the field of radioactive waste management. Alternatives to the commonly used ordinary Portland cement matrices are being increasingly studied for improved immobilisation purposes. The development of inorganic polymers (IP) from industrial residues has been successfully studied for the immobilisation of caesium (Cs+) and strontium (Sr2+). However, knowledge of the effect of these introduced elements on the IP-matrix is scarce, especially considering that studied effects are dependent on the IP-precursor characteristics and the form in which the Cs+ and Sr2+ are introduced. In this study, IPs containing varying amounts of CsNO3 and Sr(NO3)2 were developed to study the effect of the introduced elements on the IP-characteristics. IP-samples were developed from ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBFS) and 6 M NaOH activating solution. Cs+ and Sr2+ were added to account for 0.5, 1 and 2 wt% of the total IP-mass. Throughout the entire study, Cs+-addition showed no significant effects on the studied parameters. Calorimetric results showed that Sr2+ severely affects reaction kinetics, consuming hydroxide ions necessary for the alkali activation reaction. Sr2+-addition also caused a severe decrease in compressive strength, increased calcium leaching, and decreased sodium and hydroxide leaching. Micro-chemical analyses showed that Cs+ is almost fully incorporated in the formed IP-matrix, while Sr2+ mainly precipitates as Sr(OH)2 in concentrated regions throughout the IP-structure. The findings presented in this paper give insights on the effect of contaminant elements on the immobilising matrix.

Parameter Sweep and Optimization of Loosely Coupled Simulations Using the DAKOTA Toolkit

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

Elwasif, Wael R; Bernholdt, David E; Pannala, Sreekanth

2012-01-01

The increasing availability of large scale computing capabilities has accelerated the development of high-fidelity coupled simulations. Such simulations typically involve the integration of models that implement various aspects of the complex phenomena under investigation. Coupled simulations are playing an integral role in fields such as climate modeling, earth systems modeling, rocket simulations, computational chemistry, fusion research, and many other computational fields. Model coupling provides scientists with systematic ways to virtually explore the physical, mathematical, and computational aspects of the problem. Such exploration is rarely done using a single execution of a simulation, but rather by aggregating the results from manymore » simulation runs that, together, serve to bring to light novel knowledge about the system under investigation. Furthermore, it is often the case (particularly in engineering disciplines) that the study of the underlying system takes the form of an optimization regime, where the control parameter space is explored to optimize an objective functions that captures system realizability, cost, performance, or a combination thereof. Novel and flexible frameworks that facilitate the integration of the disparate models into a holistic simulation are used to perform this research, while making efficient use of the available computational resources. In this paper, we describe the integration of the DAKOTA optimization and parameter sweep toolkit with the Integrated Plasma Simulator (IPS), a component-based framework for loosely coupled simulations. The integration allows DAKOTA to exploit the internal task and resource management of the IPS to dynamically instantiate simulation instances within a single IPS instance, allowing for greater control over the trade-off between efficiency of resource utilization and time to completion. We present a case study showing the use of the combined DAKOTA-IPS system to aid in the design of a lithium ion battery (LIB) cell, by studying a coupled system involving the electrochemistry and ion transport at the lower length scales and thermal energy transport at the device scales. The DAKOTA-IPS system provides a flexible tool for use in optimization and parameter sweep studies involving loosely coupled simulations that is suitable for use in situations where changes to the constituent components in the coupled simulation are impractical due to intellectual property or code heritage issues.« less

Dependence of SOL widths on plasma parameters in NSTX

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ahn, Joon-Wook; Maingi, Rajesh; Boedo, Jose; Soukhanovskii, Vlad; Leblanc, Ben; Kaita, Robert

2008-11-01

The dependence of various upstream Scrape-Off Layer (SOL) widths on the line-averaged density (n e), plasma current (Ip), and power into the SOL (PSOL) for H-mode plasmas was investigated, using the mid-plane fast reciprocating probe and Thomson scattering diagnostics, in the National Spherical Torus Experiment (NSTX). The heat flux width (λq) at the divertor plate, measured by the IR camera, was also measured and compared with the upstream SOL widths. The edge density profile remains fixed during the H-mode, such that the separatrix density is constant even though n e is ramping. Thus λq, λTe, and λne are insensitive to n e. λTe and λjsat have strong negative dependence on Ip, whereas there was only a very weak change in λne when Ip was varied. These empirical results have been compared with scaling laws in the literature. The λTe dependence on Ip is consistent with an H-mode λTe scaling law, while the insensitivity of λne to n e is not consistent with the λne scaling law. Dependence of decay lengths on plasma parameters in a wide range of plasma conditions will be presented. This work was supported by the US Department of Energy, contract numbers DE-FG02-03ER54731, DE-AC02-76CH03073, DE-AC05-00OR22725, and DE-AC52-07NA27344.

The Impact of an Online Orientation Program on the Impostor Phenomenon, Self-Efficacy, and Anxiety

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ives, Sujata Kolhatkar

2010-01-01

The imposter phenomenon (IP), defined as the fear that others may perceive one to be an intellectual "phony", and its association to one's self-efficacy (SE) and anxiety, requires further research. This dissertation investigates the IP, SE, and anxiety and their interrelationships at the beginning and at the end of an orientation program…

Impact of social challenges on gaining employment for veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder: an exploratory moderator analysis.

PubMed

Davis, Lori L; Pilkinton, Patricia; Poddar, Swati; Blansett, Catherine; Toscano, Richard; Parker, Pamela E

2014-06-01

To explore whether psychosocial challenges impact effects of vocational rehabilitation in Veterans with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). A post hoc exploratory analysis of possible moderators of treatment was conducted on outcomes from a randomized, controlled trial of Individual Placement and Support in Veterans with PTSD. When examining groups within each moderator, there was a greater IPS supportive employment benefit in gaining competitive employment for those with inadequate transportation (number needed to treat [NNT] = 1.5) and inadequate housing (NNT = 1.5) compared with the main finding of the pilot study (NNT = 2.07). Compared with the main finding of the pilot study, there was no greater advantage of IPS for those with adequate transportation (NNT = 2.4) or adequate housing (NNT = 2.4). Compared with the main finding in the pilot study, those without a family care burden had a greater benefit from IPS (NNT = 1.4) and those with family care burden had a reduced treatment effect (NNT = 3.3). These results are exploratory and are not intended to guide clinical decision-making, but rather offer a potentially useful strategy in the design of larger trials of IPS.

Identification and removal of low-complexity sites in allele-specific analysis of ChIP-seq data.

PubMed

Waszak, Sebastian M; Kilpinen, Helena; Gschwind, Andreas R; Orioli, Andrea; Raghav, Sunil K; Witwicki, Robert M; Migliavacca, Eugenia; Yurovsky, Alisa; Lappalainen, Tuuli; Hernandez, Nouria; Reymond, Alexandre; Dermitzakis, Emmanouil T; Deplancke, Bart

2014-01-15

High-throughput sequencing technologies enable the genome-wide analysis of the impact of genetic variation on molecular phenotypes at unprecedented resolution. However, although powerful, these technologies can also introduce unexpected artifacts. We investigated the impact of library amplification bias on the identification of allele-specific (AS) molecular events from high-throughput sequencing data derived from chromatin immunoprecipitation assays (ChIP-seq). Putative AS DNA binding activity for RNA polymerase II was determined using ChIP-seq data derived from lymphoblastoid cell lines of two parent-daughter trios. We found that, at high-sequencing depth, many significant AS binding sites suffered from an amplification bias, as evidenced by a larger number of clonal reads representing one of the two alleles. To alleviate this bias, we devised an amplification bias detection strategy, which filters out sites with low read complexity and sites featuring a significant excess of clonal reads. This method will be useful for AS analyses involving ChIP-seq and other functional sequencing assays. The R package abs filter for library clonality simulations and detection of amplification-biased sites is available from http://updepla1srv1.epfl.ch/waszaks/absfilter

Impact of dextran sulphate sodium-induced colitis on the intestinal transport of the colon carcinogen PhIP.

PubMed

Nicken, Petra; von Keutz, Anne; Willenberg, Ina; Ostermann, Annika I; Schebb, Nils Helge; Giovannini, Samoa; Kershaw, Olivia; Breves, Gerhard; Steinberg, Pablo

2016-05-01

Colorectal cancer is one of the most frequent cancers in Western countries. Chronic intestinal diseases such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, in which the intestinal barrier is massively disturbed, significantly raise the risk of developing a colorectal tumour. 2-Amino-1-methyl-6-phenylimidazo[4,5-b]pyridine (PhIP) is a genotoxic heterocyclic aromatic amine that is formed after strongly heating fish and meat. In this study, the hypothesis that PhIP uptake in the gut is increased during chronic colitis was tested. Chronic colitis was induced by oral administration of dextran sulphate sodium (DSS) to Fischer 344 rats. The transport of PhIP in eight different rat intestinal segments was examined in Ussing chambers. The tissues were incubated with 10 µM PhIP for 90 min, and the concentration of PhIP was determined in the mucosal and serosal compartments of the Ussing chambers as well as in the clamped tissues by LC-MS. Although chronic colitis was clearly induced in the rats, no differences in the intestinal transport of PhIP were observed between control and DSS-treated animals. The hypothesis that in the course of chronic colitis more PhIP is taken up by the intestinal epithelium, thereby increasing the risk of developing colorectal cancer, could not be confirmed in the present report.

Enabling IP Header Compression in COTS Routers via Frame Relay on a Simplex Link

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nguyen, Sam P.; Pang, Jackson; Clare, Loren P.; Cheng, Michael K.

2010-01-01

NASA is moving toward a networkcentric communications architecture and, in particular, is building toward use of Internet Protocol (IP) in space. The use of IP is motivated by its ubiquitous application in many communications networks and in available commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) technology. The Constellation Program intends to fit two or more voice (over IP) channels on both the forward link to, and the return link from, the Orion Crew Exploration Vehicle (CEV) during all mission phases. Efficient bandwidth utilization of the links is key for voice applications. In Voice over IP (VoIP), the IP packets are limited to small sizes to keep voice latency at a minimum. The common voice codec used in VoIP is G.729. This new algorithm produces voice audio at 8 kbps and in packets of 10-milliseconds duration. Constellation has designed the VoIP communications stack to use the combination of IP/UDP/RTP protocols where IP carries a 20-byte header, UDP (User Datagram Protocol) carries an 8-byte header, and RTP (Real Time Transport Protocol) carries a 12-byte header. The protocol headers total 40 bytes and are equal in length to a 40-byte G.729 payload, doubling the VoIP latency. Since much of the IP/UDP/RTP header information does not change from IP packet to IP packet, IP/UDP/RTP header compression can avoid transmission of much redundant data as well as reduce VoIP latency. The benefits of IP header compression are more pronounced at low data rate links such as the forward and return links during CEV launch. IP/UDP/RTP header compression codecs are well supported by many COTS routers. A common interface to the COTS routers is through frame relay. However, enabling IP header compression over frame relay, according to industry standard (Frame Relay IP Header Compression Agreement FRF.20), requires a duplex link and negotiations between the compressor router and the decompressor router. In Constellation, each forward to and return link from the CEV in space is treated independently as a simplex link. Without negotiation, the COTS routers are prevented from entering into the IP header compression mode, and no IP header compression would be performed. An algorithm is proposed to enable IP header compression in COTS routers on a simplex link with no negotiation or with a one-way messaging. In doing so, COTS routers can enter IP header compression mode without the need to handshake through a bidirectional link as required by FRF.20. This technique would spoof the routers locally and thereby allow the routers to enter into IP header compression mode without having the negotiations between routers actually occur. The spoofing function is conducted by a frame relay adapter (also COTS) with the capability to generate control messages according to the FRF.20 descriptions. Therefore, negotiation is actually performed between the FRF.20 adapter and the connecting COTS router locally and never occurs over the space link. Through understanding of the handshaking protocol described by FRF.20, the necessary FRF.20 negotiations messages can be generated to control the connecting router, not only to turn on IP header compression but also to adjust the compression parameters. The FRF.20 negotiation (or control) message is composed in the FRF.20 adapter by interpreting the incoming router request message. Many of the fields are simply transcribed from request to response while the control field indicating response and type are modified.

Web-conferenced simulation sessions: a satisfaction survey of clinical simulation encounters via remote supervision.

PubMed

Hayden, Emily M; Navedo, Deborah D; Gordon, James A

2012-09-01

A critical barrier to expanding simulation-based instruction in medicine is the availability of clinical instructors. Allowing instructors to remotely observe and debrief simulation sessions may make simulation-based instruction more convenient, thus expanding the pool of instructors available. This study compared the impact of simulation sessions facilitated by in-person (IP) faculty versus those supervised remotely using Web-conferencing software (WebEx(®), Cisco [ www.webex.com/ ]). A convenience sample of preclinical medical students volunteered to "care for" patients in a simulation laboratory. Students received either standard IP or Web-conferenced (WC) instruction. WC sessions were facilitated by off-site instructors. A satisfaction survey (5-point Likert scale, where 1=strongly disagree and 5=strongly agree) was completed immediately following the sessions. Forty-four surveys were analyzed (WC n=25, IP n=19). In response to the question "Was the communication between faculty and students a barrier to understanding the case?," the average student responses were 2.8 (95% confidence interval [CI] 2.4-3.2) for WC and 4.5 (95% CI 4.0-5.0) for IP (p<0.0001). In response to the question "Would you participate again in such a session?," the average student responses were 4.2 (95% CI 4.0-4.5) for WC and 4.9 (95% CI 4.6-5.2) for IP (p=0.0003). Both groups agreed that they acquired new skills (4.2 for WC, 4.5 for IP; p=0.39) and new knowledge (4.6 for WC, 4.7 for IP; p=0.41). Telecommunication can successfully enhance access to simulation-based instruction. In this study, a Web interface downgraded the quality of student-faculty communication. Future investigation is needed to better understand the impact of such an effect on the learning process and to reduce barriers that impede implementation of technology-facilitated supervision.

Hybrid model for wireless mobility management using IPv6

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Howie, Douglas P.; Sun, Junzhao; Koivisto, Antti T.

2001-07-01

Within the coming decade, there will be a dramatic increase in the availability of inexpensive, computationally powerful mobile devices running applications which use the Internet Protocol (IP) to access multimedia services over broad-band wireless connections. To this end, there has been extensive research and standardization in the areas of Mobile IP and IPv6. The purpose of this paper is to apply this work to the issues involved in designing a mobility model able to adapt to different wireless mobile IP scenarios. We describe the usefulness of this model in the 4th generation mobile multimedia systems to come. This new model has been synthesized through a comparative analysis of current mobile IP models where particular attention has been given to the problems of mobile IP handoff and mobility management and their impact on QoS. By applying a unique perspective to these problems, our model is used to set a roadmap for future mobile IPv6 testbed construction.

Neuromuscular Characterization of the Urethra in Continent Women

PubMed Central

Kenton, Kimberly; Mueller, Elizabeth; Brubaker, Linda

2011-01-01

Objectives To describe quantitative urethral function parameters in a racially diverse group of continent women. Materials and Methods Following Institutional Review Board approval, we recruited women without urinary incontinence from the community. To be considered continent, participants answered “never” to the first six questions on the stress subscale of the Medical, Epidemiologic, and Social Aspects of Aging urinary incontinence (MESA) questionnaire. Participants all underwent quantitative concentric urethral electromyography (EMG) and urodynamic testing (UDS). Results Thirty-one women with a mean±SD age of 39±14 years underwent EMG and UDS. The cohort was racially diverse with 13 Caucasians (43%), 13 African Americans (43%), and 4 Hispanics (14%). Body mass index (BMI) (P=.12, .06), age (P=.40, .64), and vaginal parity (P=.53, .76) did not differ by race or ethnicity. We did not detect differences in any EMG parameter by race, ethnicity or vaginally parity. A mean (range) of 30 motor unit action potential analysis (MUP) (10-55) were identified and analyzed in Multi-MUP analysis and 14 (8-21) were identified and analyzed in IP analysis. On average, 37±20% MUPs were polyphasic. Age significantly correlated with several measures of urethral sphincter function. Increasing age was inversely correlated with interference analysis (IP) turns (−.57, p=.001), IP amplitude (r=−.43, p=.02), IP turns/amplitude (r=−.54, p=.003), maximum urethral closure pressures (MUCP) (r=−.41, p=.04). Similarly, MUCP correlated with IP amplitude (r=.38, p=.04). Conclusions This urethral neuromuscular function data on the largest cohort of continent women fully characterized with quantitative urethral EMG demonstrates significant neuropathic MUP changes with advancing age. PMID:22453105

Procedural volume and structure of interventional pulmonary fellowships: a survey of fellows and fellowship program directors.

PubMed

Yarmus, Lonny; Feller-Kopman, David; Imad, Melhem; Kim, Stephanie; Lee, Hans J

2013-09-01

Current interventional pulmonary (IP) procedural guidelines for competency are based on expert opinion. There are few objective data to support competency metrics for IP procedures. This survey reports procedural volume during IP fellowships to help define new standards in training and curriculum development. A web-based survey was developed to evaluate IP training procedural volume. The survey was administered to all US and Canadian IP fellowship directors and graduates in training from 2006 to 2011. The survey inquired about all diagnostic and therapeutic procedures performed during the specialized year of IP training. Questions regarding the training program structure were collected and analyzed. There was a 92.5% fellow response rate (37 of 40) and 77% fellowship director response rate (10 of 13) from programs in existence at the time of the survey. Procedural volume was consistent between fellowship directors and graduates (P = .64). Although there was a wide range of procedural volume and types of procedures between different programs, the procedural mean volumes were all significantly higher than the American College of Chest Physicians (ACCP) and American Thoracic Society/European Respiratory Society (ATS/ERS) guideline recommendations (P < .005). US and Canadian IP fellowships produce fellows with variable procedural volumes; however, these are significantly higher than ACCP and ATS/ERS guidelines for most programs and procedures. With a uniform training curriculum being adopted by the majority of IP fellowship programs in the United States and Canada, as well as data showing improved core knowledge in IP fellows undergoing a dedicated year of additional training, further metrics examining the impact of advanced IP training on patient outcomes are needed.

Medical homes versus individual practice in primary care: impact on health care expenditures.

PubMed

Perelman, Julian; Roch, Isabelle; Heymans, Isabelle; Moureaux, Catherine; Lagasse, Raphael; Annemans, Lieven; Closon, Marie-Christine

2013-08-01

The medical home (MH) model has prompted increasing attention given its potential to improve quality of care while reducing health expenditures. We compare overall and specific health care expenditures in Belgium, from the third-party payer perspective (compulsory social insurance), between patients treated at individual practices (IP) and at MHs. We compare the sociodemographic profile of MH and IP users. This is a retrospective study using public insurance claims data. Generalized linear models estimate the impact on health expenditures of being treated at a MH versus IP, controlling for individual, and area-based sociodemographic characteristics. The choice of primary care setting is modeled using logistic regressions. A random sample of 43,678 persons followed during the year 2004. Third-party payer expenditures for primary care, secondary care consultations, pharmaceuticals, laboratory tests, acute and long-term inpatient care. Overall third-party payer expenditures do not differ significantly between MH and IP users (€+27). Third-party payer primary care expenditures are higher for MH than for IP users (€+129), but this difference is offset by lower expenditures for secondary care consultations (€-11), drugs (€-40), laboratory tests (€-5) and acute and long-term inpatient care (€-53). MHs attract younger and more underprivileged populations. MHs induce a shift in expenditures from secondary care, drugs, and laboratory tests to primary care, while treating a less economically favored population. Combined with positive results regarding quality, MH structures are a promising way to tackle the challenges of primary care.

Stand level impacts of Ips and Dendroctonus bark beetles in pine forest types of northern Arizona

Treesearch

Joel McMillin; John Anhold; Jose Negron

2008-01-01

(Please note, this is an extended abstract only) Extensive tree mortality occurred in ponderosa pine forests and pinon-juniper woodlands of Arizona from 2001-2004. This mortality has been attributed to a combination of an extensive drought, overstocked stands of pine, and increased bark beetle populations. A complex of Ips and Dendroctonus species worked in concert to...

The Trans Pacific Partnership Agreement and access to HIV treatment in Vietnam.

PubMed

Moir, Hazel V J; Tenni, Brigitte; Gleeson, Deborah; Lopert, Ruth

2018-04-01

In the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP) Agreement negotiations, the USA successfully pursued intellectual property (IP) provisions that will affect the affordability of medicines, including anti-retrovirals (ARV) for HIV. Vietnam has the lowest GDP per capita of the 12 TPP countries and in 2013 provided ARVs for only 68% of eligible people living with HIV. Using the current Vietnamese IP regime as our base case, we analysed the potential impact of a regime making full use of legal IP flexibilities, and one based on the IP provisions of the final, agreed TPP text. Results indicate that at current funding levels 82% of Vietnam's eligible people living with HIV would receive ARVs if legal flexibilities were fully utilised, while as few as 30% may have access to ARVs under the TPP Agreement - more than halving the proportion currently treated.

[Progress and application prospect of pig induced pluripotent stem cells].

PubMed

Yan, Yi-Bo; Zhang, Yan-Li; Qi, Wei-Wei; Wan, Yong-Jie; Fan, Yi-Xuan; Wang, Feng

2011-04-01

Pig has always been the focus of establishing a big ungulate animal ES cell lines because of its convenient source, genetic similarity with humans, and their importance in animal husbandry, but little development is achieved. Induced pluripotent stem cells technology creates a new method of reprogramming somatic cells to pluripotent state. As the pig iPS cells is established and perfected, pig ES cells will be established in the coming years. The pig iPS cells will give a hint on other livestock ES cells. On the other hand, pig iPS cells can be used to improve the efficiency of transgenic cloning pigs to conduct effective breeding and conservation of breeds. It is particularly important that the pig iPS cells can provide new model for human medical research, a new donor cells for human tissue and organ engineering, and have extensive and far-reaching impact on the biomedical field. Here, we briefly review the major progress of iPS cells, and emphasize current state of pig iPS cells and its application prospect in biomedicine and animal husbandry in order to provide a useful reference for researchers working in this area.

A Kinetic Model for Calcium Dynamics in RAW 264.7 Cells: 1. Mechanisms, Parameters, and Subpopulational Variability

PubMed Central

Maurya, Mano Ram; Subramaniam, Shankar

2007-01-01

Calcium (Ca2+) is an important second messenger and has been the subject of numerous experimental measurements and mechanistic studies in intracellular signaling. Calcium profile can also serve as a useful cellular phenotype. Kinetic models of calcium dynamics provide quantitative insights into the calcium signaling networks. We report here the development of a complex kinetic model for calcium dynamics in RAW 264.7 cells stimulated by the C5a ligand. The model is developed using the vast number of measurements of in vivo calcium dynamics carried out in the Alliance for Cellular Signaling (AfCS) Laboratories. Ligand binding, phospholipase C-β (PLC-β) activation, inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) receptor (IP3R) dynamics, and calcium exchange with mitochondria and extracellular matrix have all been incorporated into the model. The experimental data include data from both native and knockdown cell lines. Subpopulational variability in measurements is addressed by allowing nonkinetic parameters to vary across datasets. The model predicts temporal response of Ca2+ concentration for various doses of C5a under different initial conditions. The optimized parameters for IP3R dynamics are in agreement with the legacy data. Further, the half-maximal effect concentration of C5a and the predicted dose response are comparable to those seen in AfCS measurements. Sensitivity analysis shows that the model is robust to parametric perturbations. PMID:17483174

Intermittent 20-HZ-photic stimulation leads to a uniform reduction of alpha-global field power in healthy volunteers.

PubMed

Rau, R; Raschka, C; Koch, H J

2001-01-01

19-channel-EEGs were recorded from scalp surface of 30 healthy subjects (16m, 14f, mean age: 34 ys, SD: 11.7 ys) at rest and under IPS (Intermittent Photic Stimulation) at rates of 5, 10 and 20 Hertz (Hz). Digitalized data underwent spectral analysis with fast fourier transfomation (FFT) yielding the basis for the computation of global field power (GFP). For quantification GFP values in the frequency ranges of 5, 10 and 20 Hz at rest were divided by the corresponding data gained under IPS. While ratios from PDE data showed no stable parameter due to high interindividual variability, ratios of alpha-power turned out to be uniform in all subjects: IPS at 20 Hz always led to a suppression of alpha-power. Dividing alpha-GFP at rest by alpha-GFP under 20-Hz IPS thus resulted in a ratio < 1. We conclude that ratios from GFP data are a stable diagnostic paradigma.

IPS analysis on relationship among velocity, density and temperature of the solar wind

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hayashi, K.; Tokumaru, M.; Fujiki, K.

2015-12-01

The IPS(Interplanetary Scintillation)-MHD(magnetohydrodynamics) tomography is a method we have developed to determine three-dimensional MHD solution of the solar wind that best matches the line-of-sight IPS solar-wind speed data (Hayashi et al., 2003). The tomographic approach is an iteration method in which IPS observations are simulated in MHD steady-state solution, then differences between the simulated observation and the actual IPS observation is reduced by modifying solar-wind boundary map at 50 solar radii. This forward model needs to assume solar wind density and temperature as function of speed. We use empirical functions, N(V) and T(V), derived from Helios in-situ measurement data within 0.5 AU in 1970s. For recent years, especially after 2006, these functions yield higher densities and lower temperatures than in-situ measurements indicate. To characterize the differences between the simulated and actual solar wind plasma, we tune parameters in the functions so that agreements with in-situ data (near the Earth and at Ulysses) will be optimized. This optimization approach can help better simulations of the solar corona and heliosphere, and will help our understandings on roles of magnetic field in solar wind heating and acceleration.

Production of photons in relativistic heavy-ion collisions

DOE PAGES

Jean -Francois Paquet; Denicol, Gabriel S.; Shen, Chun; ...

2016-04-18

In this work it is shown that the use of a hydrodynamical model of heavy-ion collisions which incorporates recent developments, together with updated photon emission rates, greatly improves agreement with both ALICE and PHENIX measurements of direct photons, supporting the idea that thermal photons are the dominant source of direct photon momentum anisotropy. The event-by-event hydrodynamical model uses the impact parameter dependent Glasma model (IP-Glasma) initial states and includes, for the first time, both shear and bulk viscosities, along with second-order couplings between the two viscosities. Furthermore, the effect of both shear and bulk viscosities on the photon rates ismore » studied, and those transport coefficients are shown to have measurable consequences on the photon momentum anisotropy.« less

Environmental novelty and illumination modify ethanol-induced open-field behavioral effects in mice.

PubMed

Fukushiro, Daniela F; Benetti, Liliane F; Josino, Fabiana S; Oliveira, Gabriela P; Fernandes, Maiara deM; Saito, Luis P; Uehara, Regina A; Wuo-Silva, Raphael; Oliveira, Camila S; Frussa-Filho, Roberto

2010-03-01

Both spontaneous and drug-induced animal behaviors can be modified by exposure to novel stimuli or different levels of environmental illumination. However, research into how these factors specifically impact ethanol (ETH)-induced behavioral effects is currently lacking. We aimed to investigate the effects of these two factors, considered separately or in conjunction, on ETH-induced acute hyperlocomotor effect and its sensitization in adult male Swiss mice. Mice were placed in a novel or familiar open-field under normal light (200 lx) or low light (9 lx) immediately after receiving an ip injection of either 1.8 g/kg ETH or saline (SAL). After 7 days, all animals received an ip challenge injection of 1.8 g/kg ETH, and were placed in the open-field under the same light conditions described above. Novelty increased central locomotion and decreased grooming, while low light increased grooming. Acute ETH administration increased both total and peripheral locomotion and these effects were potentiated by low light. Both low light and novelty were able to facilitate ETH-induced locomotor sensitization, which was detected by the central locomotion parameter. However, there was no synergism between the effects of these two modulating factors on ETH-induced behavioral sensitization. We conclude that both the acute behavioral effects of ETH and behavioral sensitization induced by previous administration of this drug can be critically modified by environmental factors. In addition, our study stresses the importance of using different behavioral parameters to evaluate the interaction between environmental factors and ETH effects. (c) 2009 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Strategy for Developing Expert-System-Based Internet Protocols (TCP/IP)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ivancic, William D.

1997-01-01

The Satellite Networks and Architectures Branch of NASA's Lewis Research is addressing the issue of seamless interoperability of satellite networks with terrestrial networks. One of the major issues is improving reliable transmission protocols such as TCP over long latency and error-prone links. Many tuning parameters are available to enhance the performance of TCP including segment size, timers and window sizes. There are also numerous congestion avoidance algorithms such as slow start, selective retransmission and selective acknowledgment that are utilized to improve performance. This paper provides a strategy to characterize the performance of TCP relative to various parameter settings in a variety of network environments (i.e. LAN, WAN, wireless, satellite, and IP over ATM). This information can then be utilized to develop expert-system-based Internet protocols.

Overcoming communication challenges in integrative supportive cancer care: The integrative physician, the psycho-oncologist, and the patient.

PubMed

Ben-Arye, Eran; Shavit, Efrat; Wiental, Haya; Schiff, Elad; Agour, Olga; Samuels, Noah

2016-12-01

Complementary/integrative medicine (CIM) services are increasingly being integrated into conventional supportive cancer care, presenting a number of challenges to communication between healthcare professionals (HCPs). The purpose of the present study was to explore the impact of the communication between integrative physicians (IPs) trained in CIM and social workers (SWs) working as psycho-oncologists in the same oncology setting. We examine whether IP-SW communication correlates with the number of patient-SW sessions, as provided within the oncology department. SW-IP communication, defined as a summary of the IP consultation sent to the patient's SW, was compared to SW-patient communication, defined as the number of psycho-oncology treatment sessions. Of 344 patients referred by their oncology HCP for IP consultation, 91 were referred by an SW and 253 by an oncologist or nurse. IP-to-SW summaries were provided for 150 patients referred by a non-SW HCP (43.6%), and for 91 of SW-referred patients (26.5%). In all, 32 patients referred to the IP had no psycho-oncology interaction with an SW; 58 only one meeting; and 254 with ≥2 interactions, with 119 having >6 sessions. SW-patient interactions were greater with higher rates of IP-SW communication, for both patients referred by an SW (79.1%) and those referred by a non-SW HCP (77.3%) when compared to patients for whom no summary was provided (64.1%; p= 0.02). A greater level of IP-SW communication, measured by the provision of an IP summary to the patient's SW, was found to correlate with a higher rate of SW-patient interactions. The use of a structured two-way referral-summary between IPs and SWs has the potential to advance the SW-patient psycho-oncology interaction, within an integrative supportive cancer care setting. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Multiplexing of ChIP-Seq Samples in an Optimized Experimental Condition Has Minimal Impact on Peak Detection.

PubMed

Kacmarczyk, Thadeous J; Bourque, Caitlin; Zhang, Xihui; Jiang, Yanwen; Houvras, Yariv; Alonso, Alicia; Betel, Doron

2015-01-01

Multiplexing samples in sequencing experiments is a common approach to maximize information yield while minimizing cost. In most cases the number of samples that are multiplexed is determined by financial consideration or experimental convenience, with limited understanding on the effects on the experimental results. Here we set to examine the impact of multiplexing ChIP-seq experiments on the ability to identify a specific epigenetic modification. We performed peak detection analyses to determine the effects of multiplexing. These include false discovery rates, size, position and statistical significance of peak detection, and changes in gene annotation. We found that, for histone marker H3K4me3, one can multiplex up to 8 samples (7 IP + 1 input) at ~21 million single-end reads each and still detect over 90% of all peaks found when using a full lane for sample (~181 million reads). Furthermore, there are no variations introduced by indexing or lane batch effects and importantly there is no significant reduction in the number of genes with neighboring H3K4me3 peaks. We conclude that, for a well characterized antibody and, therefore, model IP condition, multiplexing 8 samples per lane is sufficient to capture most of the biological signal.

Multiplexing of ChIP-Seq Samples in an Optimized Experimental Condition Has Minimal Impact on Peak Detection

PubMed Central

Kacmarczyk, Thadeous J.; Bourque, Caitlin; Zhang, Xihui; Jiang, Yanwen; Houvras, Yariv; Alonso, Alicia; Betel, Doron

2015-01-01

Multiplexing samples in sequencing experiments is a common approach to maximize information yield while minimizing cost. In most cases the number of samples that are multiplexed is determined by financial consideration or experimental convenience, with limited understanding on the effects on the experimental results. Here we set to examine the impact of multiplexing ChIP-seq experiments on the ability to identify a specific epigenetic modification. We performed peak detection analyses to determine the effects of multiplexing. These include false discovery rates, size, position and statistical significance of peak detection, and changes in gene annotation. We found that, for histone marker H3K4me3, one can multiplex up to 8 samples (7 IP + 1 input) at ~21 million single-end reads each and still detect over 90% of all peaks found when using a full lane for sample (~181 million reads). Furthermore, there are no variations introduced by indexing or lane batch effects and importantly there is no significant reduction in the number of genes with neighboring H3K4me3 peaks. We conclude that, for a well characterized antibody and, therefore, model IP condition, multiplexing 8 samples per lane is sufficient to capture most of the biological signal. PMID:26066343

Improving the delineation of hydrocarbon-impacted soils and water through induced polarization (IP) tomographies: a field study at an industrial waste land.

PubMed

Deceuster, John; Kaufmann, Olivier

2012-08-01

Without a good estimation of samples representativeness, the delineation of the contaminated plume extent and the evaluation of volumes of hydrocarbon-impacted soils may remain difficult. To contribute to this question, a time domain induced polarization (IP) field experiment was conducted on an industrial waste land. Boreholes were drilled to specify the local geological context. Cross-hole seismic tomographies were performed to extend borehole logs and to draw an interpreted geological cross-section. Soil samples taken during drillings were analysed in laboratory. A preliminary survey was conducted to locate the IP profile. The polarization signatures linked to the presence of clayey sediments were filtered out from the data set. Chargeability and resistivity depth soundings were computed and compared to mean concentrations of total organic products to overcome the data support issue between the geophysical models and the spot samples of soils. A logarithmic relation between chargeabilities and smoothed hydrocarbon concentrations in soils was found. Taking into account contaminant's concentration thresholds defined in local codes and regulations allows defining chargeability classes to delineate hotspots on this site. This showed that IP tomography can be an accurate screening methodology. A statistical methodology is proposed to assess the efficiency of the investigation strategy. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

[Anterior bridges with the IPS-Empress-2 System after alveolar ridge augmentation. A case report].

PubMed

Zawta, C; Bernhard, M

2000-01-01

The success of a prosthesis is judged according to optimal function, good chewing comfort, adequate phonetics and white and pink esthetics. The aim of a treatment is to approach the perfection of nature. For anterior bridgework, the all-ceramic System IPS Empress 2 offers light transmission and reflection comparable to that of natural teeth, provided that the pink esthetics are optimised in the preprosthetic phase. The provision of an anterior bridge in the IPS Empress 2-system is presented here in the form of a case report. After extraction of the anterior teeth, a ridge augmentation including preparation of the pontic bed was carried out. The type of post and core, preparation and cementation are important parameters for the success of all-ceramic restorations.

Double-blind comparative trial of indoprofen and acetylsalicylic acid in osteoarthritis.

PubMed

Katona, G

1981-01-01

The effectiveness, safety and acceptability of indoprofen (IP) and acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) were assessed in patients with osteoarthritis, in a double-blind comparative trial. Each patient received IP 600 mg/day or ASA 2100 mg/day for a four-week period; after a one-week wash-out period, the same drug was given at a higher dosage (IP 800 or ASA 2800 mg/day) for another four weeks. Seventeen patients on indoprofen and 14 on SAS completed the trial. A significant improvement was obtained with indoprofen in the different parameters measuring pain, from the first treatment period; results were similar at the end of the second period. Results with ASA, at both dosages, appeared less impressive. Two patients on indoprofen and five on ASA complained of side effects.

Estimation of Future Return Levels for Heavy Rainfall in the Iberian Peninsula: Comparison of Methodologies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Parey, S.

2014-12-01

F. J. Acero1, S. Parey2, T.T.H. Hoang2, D. Dacunha-Castelle31Dpto. Física, Universidad de Extremadura, Avda. de Elvas s/n, 06006, Badajoz 2EDF/R&D, 6 quai Watier, 78401 Chatou Cedex, France 3Laboratoire de Mathématiques, Université Paris 11, Orsay, France Trends can already be detected in daily rainfall amount in the Iberian Peninsula (IP), and this will have an impact on the extreme levels. In this study, we compare different ways to estimate future return levels for heavy rainfall, based on the statistical extreme value theory. Both Peaks over Threshold (POT) and block maxima with the Generalized Extreme Value (GEV) distribution will be used and their results compared when linear trends are assumed in the parameters: threshold and scale parameter for POT and location and scale parameter for GEV. But rainfall over the IP is a special variable in that a large number of the values are 0. Thus, the impact of taking this into account is discussed too. Another approach is then tested, based on the evolutions of the mean and variance obtained from the time series of rainy days only, and of the number of rainy days. A statistical test, similar to that designed for temperature in Parey et al. 2013, is used to assess if the trends in extremes can be considered as mostly due to these evolutions when considering only rainy days. The results show that it is mainly the case: the extremes of the residuals, after removing the trends in mean and standard deviation, cannot be differentiated from those of a stationary process. Thus, the future return levels can be estimated from the stationary return level of these residuals and an estimation of the future mean and standard deviation. Moreover, an estimation of the future number of rainy days is used to retrieve the return levels for all days. All of these comparisons are made for an ensemble of high quality rainfall time series observed in the Iberian Peninsula over the period 1961-2010, from which we want to estimate a 20-year return level expected in 2020. The evolutions and the impact of the different approaches will be discussed for 3 seasons: fall, spring and winter. Parey S., Hoang T.T.H., Dacunha-Castelle D.: The importance of mean and variance in predicting changes in temperature extremes, Journal of Geophysical Research: Atmospheres, Vol. 118, 1-12, 2013.

Interstitial pneumonitis and the risk of chronic allograft rejection in lung transplant recipients.

PubMed

Mihalek, Andrew D; Rosas, Ivan O; Padera, Robert F; Fuhlbrigge, Anne L; Hunninghake, Gary M; DeMeo, Dawn L; Camp, Phillip C; Goldberg, Hilary J

2013-05-01

The presence of interstitial pneumonitis (IP) on surveillance lung biopsy specimens in lung transplant recipients is poorly described, and its impact on posttransplant outcomes is not established. The following study assessed the association of posttransplant IP with the development of bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome (BOS). We examined all recipients of primary cadaveric lung transplants at our institution between January 1, 2000, and December 31, 2007 (N = 145). Patients had bronchoscopies with BAL, and transbronchial biopsies performed for surveillance during posttransplant months 1, 3, 6, and 12 as well as when clinically indicated. Patients were given a diagnosis of IP if, in the absence of active infection and organizing pneumonia, they showed evidence of interstitial inflammation and fibrosis on two or more biopsy specimens. IP was a significant predictor of BOS (OR, 7.84; 95% CI, 2.84-21.67; P < .0001) and was significantly associated with time to development of BOS (hazard ratio, 3.8; 95% CI, 1.93-7.39; P = .0001) within the first 6 years posttransplant. The presence of IP did not correlate with a significantly higher risk of mortality or time to death. There was no association between the presence of IP and the development of or time to acute rejection. The presence of IP on lung transplant biopsy specimens suggests an increased risk for BOS, which is independent of the presence of acute cellular rejection.

Structure-activity relationships for novel drug precursor N-substituted-6-acylbenzothiazolon derivatives: A theoretical approach

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sıdır, Yadigar Gülseven; Sıdır, İsa

2013-08-01

In this study, the twelve new modeled N-substituted-6-acylbenzothiazolon derivatives having analgesic analog structure have been investigated by quantum chemical methods using a lot of electronic parameters and structure-activity properties; such as molecular polarizability (α), dipole moment (μ), EHOMO, ELUMO, q-, qH+, molecular volume (Vm), ionization potential (IP), electron affinity (EA), electronegativity (χ), molecular hardness (η), molecular softness (S), electrophilic index (ω), heat of formation (HOF), molar refractivity (MR), octanol-water partition coefficient (log P), thermochemical properties (entropy (S), capacity of heat (Cv)); as to investigate activity relationships with molecular structure. The correlations of log P with Vm, MR, ω, EA, EHOMO - ELUMO (ΔE), HOF in aqueous phase, χ, μ, S, η parameters, respectively are obtained, while the linear relation of log P with IP, Cv, HOF in gas phase are not observed. The log P parameter is obtained to be depending on different properties of compounds due to their complexity.

Comparison of the WSA-ENLIL model with three CME cone types

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jang, Soojeong; Moon, Y.; Na, H.

2013-07-01

We have made a comparison of the CME-associated shock propagation based on the WSA-ENLIL model with three cone types using 29 halo CMEs from 2001 to 2002. These halo CMEs have cone model parameters as well as their associated interplanetary (IP) shocks. For this study we consider three different cone types (an asymmetric cone model, an ice-cream cone model and an elliptical cone model) to determine 3-D CME parameters (radial velocity, angular width and source location), which are the input values of the WSA-ENLIL model. The mean absolute error (MAE) of the arrival times for the asymmetric cone model is 10.6 hours, which is about 1 hour smaller than those of the other models. Their ensemble average of MAE is 9.5 hours. However, this value is still larger than that (8.7 hours) of the empirical model of Kim et al. (2007). We will compare their IP shock velocities and densities with those from ACE in-situ measurements and discuss them in terms of the prediction of geomagnetic storms.Abstract (2,250 Maximum Characters): We have made a comparison of the CME-associated shock propagation based on the WSA-ENLIL model with three cone types using 29 halo CMEs from 2001 to 2002. These halo CMEs have cone model parameters as well as their associated interplanetary (IP) shocks. For this study we consider three different cone types (an asymmetric cone model, an ice-cream cone model and an elliptical cone model) to determine 3-D CME parameters (radial velocity, angular width and source location), which are the input values of the WSA-ENLIL model. The mean absolute error (MAE) of the arrival times for the asymmetric cone model is 10.6 hours, which is about 1 hour smaller than those of the other models. Their ensemble average of MAE is 9.5 hours. However, this value is still larger than that (8.7 hours) of the empirical model of Kim et al. (2007). We will compare their IP shock velocities and densities with those from ACE in-situ measurements and discuss them in terms of the prediction of geomagnetic storms.

Thermal Stress Evaluation of a Symmetrically Laminated Composite Plate

DTIC Science & Technology

1991-10-23

o-z) parameter (in=200) dimension am(in,in), bm(in,in), cm(in,in), av(in), bv(in) dimension bmat (in, in) ,bmgrid(in, in) dimension amd(in,in),avd(in...STRESS FUNCTION COEFFICIENTS** call sfunction(a,b,h,nf,tk,theta,nl,amlbm,cm,av,bv, bmat , + amd, avd, break, tcoef, ip, gfac) c * calculate the stress...end C subroutine sfunction(a,b,h,n,tk,theta,nl,rm,rmb,tm,rv,rvb, bmat , + rind, rvd, break, tcoef, ip, gfac) c * c * This subroutine calculates the

How Maryland increased infection prevention and control activity in long-term care facilities, 2003-2008.

PubMed

Roup, Brenda J; Scaletta, Joseph M

2011-05-01

In January 2003, the Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DHMH) assessed the state of infection prevention and control (IPC) resources and practices in all long-term care facilities (LTC) in the state. Only 8.1% of facilities that responded employed a trained IPC professional (IP) who managed the facility IPC program. Between 2003 and 2008, the DHMH partnered with long-term care industry trade associations and spearheaded regulatory, educational, and financial initiatives to improve this situation. In January 2008, all LTC facilities in the state were resurveyed to determine the impact of these initiatives on IPC activities. The 2008 survey indicated that 44% of LTC facilities used a trained IP who managed the IPC program, a 5-fold increase from 2003. Unpublished DHMH outbreak data indicated that LTC facilities with a trained IP recognized and reported outbreaks to the local health department 2 days sooner than facilities without a trained IP, resulting in fewer cases of disease. Multiple initiatives with concerned stakeholders and LTC partners over the course of 5 years resulted in increased numbers of LTC facilities with trained IPs who recognized and responded to outbreaks sooner than facilities without trained IPs. Copyright © 2011 Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology, Inc. Published by Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

Safety incentive and penalty provisions in Indian construction projects and their impact on safety performance.

PubMed

Hasan, Abid; Jha, Kumar Neeraj

2013-01-01

Safety incentive and penalty (I/P) provisions in construction contracts are one of the most common forms of I/P. Contradictory opinions on the effectiveness of these provisions have been expressed in the literature. Statistics on safety provisions were collected from 32 construction projects, which include both types of contracts - those with safety I/P provisions and those without them. Although inclusion of safety I/P provisions in contracts helps in improving the overall safety performance in construction projects, further scope for improvement still exists. Literature review and structured personal interviews, coupled with a survey based on preliminary questionnaire, revealed that successful formulation and implementation of such provisions are dependent on 25 attributes which need the attention of both clients and contractors. A questionnaire-based survey was conducted to evaluate these attributes. The six factors extracted by carrying out factor analysis are: incentive distribution method, proper labour training, special attention to risky situations, role of safety committee and sub-contractors, specialised works and safety equipments, and right form of I/P. If taken care of, these attributes have the potential to improve the safety performance in construction projects. The results would be useful to clients and contractors in implementing the safety I/P provisions and thereby improving safety performance.

Optimizing ChIP-seq peak detectors using visual labels and supervised machine learning

PubMed Central

Goerner-Potvin, Patricia; Morin, Andreanne; Shao, Xiaojian; Pastinen, Tomi

2017-01-01

Motivation: Many peak detection algorithms have been proposed for ChIP-seq data analysis, but it is not obvious which algorithm and what parameters are optimal for any given dataset. In contrast, regions with and without obvious peaks can be easily labeled by visual inspection of aligned read counts in a genome browser. We propose a supervised machine learning approach for ChIP-seq data analysis, using labels that encode qualitative judgments about which genomic regions contain or do not contain peaks. The main idea is to manually label a small subset of the genome, and then learn a model that makes consistent peak predictions on the rest of the genome. Results: We created 7 new histone mark datasets with 12 826 visually determined labels, and analyzed 3 existing transcription factor datasets. We observed that default peak detection parameters yield high false positive rates, which can be reduced by learning parameters using a relatively small training set of labeled data from the same experiment type. We also observed that labels from different people are highly consistent. Overall, these data indicate that our supervised labeling method is useful for quantitatively training and testing peak detection algorithms. Availability and Implementation: Labeled histone mark data http://cbio.ensmp.fr/~thocking/chip-seq-chunk-db/, R package to compute the label error of predicted peaks https://github.com/tdhock/PeakError Contacts: toby.hocking@mail.mcgill.ca or guil.bourque@mcgill.ca Supplementary information: Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online. PMID:27797775

Optimizing ChIP-seq peak detectors using visual labels and supervised machine learning.

PubMed

Hocking, Toby Dylan; Goerner-Potvin, Patricia; Morin, Andreanne; Shao, Xiaojian; Pastinen, Tomi; Bourque, Guillaume

2017-02-15

Many peak detection algorithms have been proposed for ChIP-seq data analysis, but it is not obvious which algorithm and what parameters are optimal for any given dataset. In contrast, regions with and without obvious peaks can be easily labeled by visual inspection of aligned read counts in a genome browser. We propose a supervised machine learning approach for ChIP-seq data analysis, using labels that encode qualitative judgments about which genomic regions contain or do not contain peaks. The main idea is to manually label a small subset of the genome, and then learn a model that makes consistent peak predictions on the rest of the genome. We created 7 new histone mark datasets with 12 826 visually determined labels, and analyzed 3 existing transcription factor datasets. We observed that default peak detection parameters yield high false positive rates, which can be reduced by learning parameters using a relatively small training set of labeled data from the same experiment type. We also observed that labels from different people are highly consistent. Overall, these data indicate that our supervised labeling method is useful for quantitatively training and testing peak detection algorithms. Labeled histone mark data http://cbio.ensmp.fr/~thocking/chip-seq-chunk-db/ , R package to compute the label error of predicted peaks https://github.com/tdhock/PeakError. toby.hocking@mail.mcgill.ca or guil.bourque@mcgill.ca. Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online. © The Author 2016. Published by Oxford University Press.

The effect of polishing technique on 3-D surface roughness and gloss of dental restorative resin composites.

PubMed

Ereifej, N S; Oweis, Y G; Eliades, G

2013-01-01

The aim of this study was to compare surface roughness and gloss of resin composites polished using different polishing systems. Five resin composites were investigated: Filtek Silorane (FS), IPS Empress Direct (IP), Clearfil Majesty Posterior (CM), Premise (PM), and Estelite Sigma (ES). Twenty-five disk specimens were prepared from each material, divided into five groups, each polished with one of the following methods: Opti1Step (OS), OptiDisc (OD), Kenda CGI (KD), Pogo (PG), or metallurgical polishing (ML). Gloss and roughness parameters (Sa, Sz, Sq, and St) were evaluated by 60°-angle glossimetry and white-light interferometric profilometry. Two-way analysis of variance was used to detect differences in different materials and polishing techniques. Regression and correlation analyses were performed to examine correlations between roughness and gloss. Significant differences in roughness parameters and gloss were found according to the material, type of polishing, and material/polishing technique (p< 0.05). The highest roughness was recorded when KD was used (Sa: 581.8 [62.1] for FS/KD, Sq: 748.7 [55.6] for FS/KD, Sz: 17.7 [2.7] for CM/KD, and St: 24.6 [6.8] for FS/KD), while the lowest was recorded after ML (Sa: 133.6 [68.9] for PM/ML, Sq: 256.5 [53.5] for ES/ML, Sz: 4.0 [1.3] for ES/ML, and St: 7.1 [0.7] for ES/ML). The highest gloss was recorded for PM/ML (88.4 [2.3]) and lowest for FS/KD (30.3 [5.7]). All roughness parameters were significantly correlated with gloss (r= 0.871, 0.846, 0.713, and 0.707 for Sa, Sq, Sz, St, and gloss, respectively). It was concluded that the polishing procedure and the type of composite can have significant impacts on surface roughness and gloss of resin composites.

Effects of the Voice over Internet Protocol on Perturbation Analysis of Normal and Pathological Phonation

PubMed Central

Zhu, Yanmei; Witt, Rachel E.; MacCallum, Julia K.; Jiang, Jack J.

2010-01-01

Objective In this study, a Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) communication based on G.729 protocol was simulated to determine the effects of this system on acoustic perturbation parameters of normal and pathological voice signals. Patients and Methods: Fifty recordings of normal voice and 48 recordings of pathological voice affected by laryngeal paralysis were transmitted through a VoIP communication system. The acoustic analysis programs of CSpeech and MDVP were used to determine the percent jitter and percent shimmer from the voice samples before and after VoIP transmission. The effects of three frequently used audio compression protocols (MP3, WMA, and FLAC) on the perturbation measures were also studied. Results It was found that VoIP transmission disrupts the waveform and increases the percent jitter and percent shimmer of voice samples. However, after VoIP transmission, significant discrimination between normal and pathological voices affected by laryngeal paralysis was still possible. It was found that the lossless compression method FLAC does not exert any influence on the perturbation measures. The lossy compression methods MP3 and WMA increase percent jitter and percent shimmer values. Conclusion This study validates the feasibility of these transmission and compression protocols in developing remote voice signal data collection and assessment systems. PMID:20588051

Periodontal response to all-ceramic crowns (IPS Empress) in general practice.

PubMed

Al-Wahadni, A M; Mansour, Y; Khader, Y

2006-02-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate the periodontal response to the presence of all-ceramic crowns (IPS Empress) in general practice patients. The convenience sample included 82 IPS Empress crowns placed in 64 patients. These crowns had been in place for an average of 16.27 (SD 9.26) months and ranged from 6.2 to 48.87 months at the time of clinical examination. Periodontal health status (as determined by dental plaque, gingival health status, periodontal pockets) was assessed around all crowned teeth and around matched contralateral teeth by one calibrated examiner. Periodontal indices utilized included the Plaque Index (PI), Gingival Index (GI) and pocket depth (PD) with calibrated probes graduated in millimetres. Plaque, gingival and PD values for crowned teeth were compared with those for control teeth using Wilcoxon signed-rank test for each clinical parameters. Chi-square was used to test the significance of the difference in their distribution between crowns and control teeth. Statistically, PI (0.35), GI (0.41) and mean PD scores (1.42) of IPS Empress crowned teeth compared less favourably with scores of the control teeth (0.27, 0.23 and 0.86 respectively). Teeth with IPS Empress crowns had poorer periodontal health and more clinically evident plaque than uncrowned teeth.

Analysis of Optimal Jitter Buffer Size for VoIP QoS under WiMAX Power-Saving Mode

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Hyungsuk; Kim, Taehyoun

VoIP service is expected as one of the key applications of Mobile WiMAX, but the speech quality of VoIP service often suffers deterioration due to the fluctuating transmission delay called jitter. This is commonly ameliorated by a de-jitter buffer, and we aim to find the optimal size of de-jitter buffer to achieve speech quality comparable to PSTN. We developed a new model of the packet drops at the de-jitter buffer and the end-to-end packet delay which takes account of the additional delay introduced by the WiMAX power-saving mode. Using our model, we analyzed the optimal size of the de-jitter buffer for various network parameters, and showed that the results obtained by analysis accord with simulation results.

Induced polarization and its interaction with electromagnetic coupling in low-frequency geophysical exploration

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

Gruszka, T.P.

1987-01-01

Starting from the dynamic equations of electromagnetics we derive mutual impedance formulas that include the effects of induced polarization (IP) and electromagnetic (EM) coupling. The mutual impedance formulas are given for four geometries: a fullspace, a cylinder in a fullspace, a halfspace, and a layer over a halfspace. IP effects are characterized by a Cole-Cole model, the properties of which are fully investigated. From the general mutual impedance formulas specific limiting forms are defined to characterize the IP and EM effects. Using these limiting forms a framework is developed to justify the addition or multiplication of the two effects. Themore » additive and multiplicative models are compared in the cylinder and layer geometries with the conclusion that the additive model proves to be more accurate over a wider range of frequencies than the multiplicative model. The nature of the IP and EM effects is illustrated in all four geometries showing the effects of relevant parameters. In all cases it is shown that the real part of the mutual impedance contains important IP information that is less influenced by EM effects. Finally the effects of boundaries are illustrated by the cylinder and layer geometries and a theory is developed to incorporate EM effects and IP effects from multiple regions which utilizes frequency dependent real dilution factors. The author also included a brief review of some EM removal schemes and dilution theory approximations.« less

Calcium waves in a grid of clustered channels with synchronous IP3 binding and unbinding.

PubMed

Rückl, M; Rüdiger, S

2016-11-01

Calcium signals in cells occur at multiple spatial scales and variable temporal duration. However, a physical explanation for transitions between long-lasting global oscillations and localized short-term elevations (puffs) of cytoplasmic Ca 2+ is still lacking. Here we introduce a phenomenological, coarse-grained model for the calcium variable, which is represented by ordinary differential equations. Due to its small number of parameters, and its simplicity, this model allows us to numerically study the interplay of multi-scale calcium concentrations with stochastic ion channel gating dynamics even in larger systems. We apply this model to a single cluster of inositol trisphosphate (IP 3 ) receptor channels and find further evidence for the results presented in earlier work: a single cluster may be capable of producing different calcium release types, where long-lasting events are accompanied by unbinding of IP 3 from the receptor (Rückl et al., PLoS Comput. Biol. 11, e1003965 (2015)). Finally, we show the practicability of the model in a grid of 64 clusters which is computationally intractable with previous high-resolution models. Here long-lasting events can lead to synchronized oscillations and waves, while short events stay localized. The frequency of calcium releases as well as their coherence can thereby be regulated by the amplitude of IP 3 stimulation. Finally the model allows for a new explanation of oscillating [IP 3 ], which is not based on metabolic production and degradation of IP 3 .

Systems Modeling of Ca2+ Homeostasis and Mobilization in Platelets Mediated by IP3 and Store-Operated Ca2+ Entry

PubMed Central

Dolan, Andrew T.; Diamond, Scott L.

2014-01-01

Resting platelets maintain a stable level of low cytoplasmic calcium ([Ca2+]cyt) and high dense tubular system calcium ([Ca2+]dts). During thrombosis, activators cause a transient rise in inositol trisphosphate (IP3) to trigger calcium mobilization from stores and elevation of [Ca2+]cyt. Another major source of [Ca2+]cyt elevation is store-operated calcium entry (SOCE) through plasmalemmal calcium channels that open in response to store depletion as [Ca2+]dts drops. A 34-species systems model employed kinetics describing IP3-receptor, DTS-plasmalemma puncta formation, SOCE via assembly of STIM1 and Orai1, and the plasmalemma and sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPases. Four constraints were imposed: calcium homeostasis before activation; stable in zero extracellular calcium; IP3-activatable; and functional SOCE. Using a Monte Carlo method to sample three unknown parameters and nine initial concentrations in a 12-dimensional space near measured or expected values, we found that model configurations that were responsive to stimuli and demonstrated significant SOCE required high inner membrane electric potential (>−70 mV) and low resting IP3 concentrations. The absence of puncta in resting cells was required to prevent spontaneous store depletion in calcium-free media. Ten-fold increases in IP3 caused saturated calcium mobilization. This systems model represents a critical step in being able to predict platelets’ phenotypes during hemostasis or thrombosis. PMID:24806937

Statistical mechanical analysis of linear programming relaxation for combinatorial optimization problems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Takabe, Satoshi; Hukushima, Koji

2016-05-01

Typical behavior of the linear programming (LP) problem is studied as a relaxation of the minimum vertex cover (min-VC), a type of integer programming (IP) problem. A lattice-gas model on the Erdös-Rényi random graphs of α -uniform hyperedges is proposed to express both the LP and IP problems of the min-VC in the common statistical mechanical model with a one-parameter family. Statistical mechanical analyses reveal for α =2 that the LP optimal solution is typically equal to that given by the IP below the critical average degree c =e in the thermodynamic limit. The critical threshold for good accuracy of the relaxation extends the mathematical result c =1 and coincides with the replica symmetry-breaking threshold of the IP. The LP relaxation for the minimum hitting sets with α ≥3 , minimum vertex covers on α -uniform random graphs, is also studied. Analytic and numerical results strongly suggest that the LP relaxation fails to estimate optimal values above the critical average degree c =e /(α -1 ) where the replica symmetry is broken.

Statistical mechanical analysis of linear programming relaxation for combinatorial optimization problems.

PubMed

Takabe, Satoshi; Hukushima, Koji

2016-05-01

Typical behavior of the linear programming (LP) problem is studied as a relaxation of the minimum vertex cover (min-VC), a type of integer programming (IP) problem. A lattice-gas model on the Erdös-Rényi random graphs of α-uniform hyperedges is proposed to express both the LP and IP problems of the min-VC in the common statistical mechanical model with a one-parameter family. Statistical mechanical analyses reveal for α=2 that the LP optimal solution is typically equal to that given by the IP below the critical average degree c=e in the thermodynamic limit. The critical threshold for good accuracy of the relaxation extends the mathematical result c=1 and coincides with the replica symmetry-breaking threshold of the IP. The LP relaxation for the minimum hitting sets with α≥3, minimum vertex covers on α-uniform random graphs, is also studied. Analytic and numerical results strongly suggest that the LP relaxation fails to estimate optimal values above the critical average degree c=e/(α-1) where the replica symmetry is broken.

A randomized clinical trial on the effects of remote intercessory prayer in the adverse outcomes of pregnancies.

PubMed

da Rosa, Maria Inês; Silva, Fabio Rosa; Silva, Bruno Rosa; Costa, Luciana Carvalho; Bergamo, Angela Mendes; Silva, Napoleão Chiaramonte; Medeiros, Lidia Rosi de Freitas; Battisti, Iara Denise Endruweit; Azevedo, Rafael

2013-08-01

The scope of this article was to investigate whether intercessory prayer (IP) influences the adverse outcomes of pregnancies. A double-blind, randomized clinical trial was conducted with 564 pregnant women attending a prenatal public health care service. The women were randomly assigned to an IP group or to a control group (n = 289 per group). They were simultaneously and randomly assigned to practice prayer off-site or not. The following parameters were evaluated: Apgar scores, type of delivery and birth weight. The mean age of the women was 25.1 years of age (± 7.4), and the average gestational age was 23.4 weeks (± 8.1). The average number of years of schooling for the women was 8.1 years (± 3.1). The women in the IP and control groups presented a similar number of adverse medical events with non-significant p. No significant differences were detected in the frequency of adverse outcomes in pregnant women who practiced IP and those in the control group.

400 Years of summer hydroclimate from stable isotopes in Iberian trees

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Andreu-Hayles, Laia; Ummenhofer, Caroline C.; Barriendos, Mariano; Schleser, Gerhard H.; Helle, Gerhard; Leuenberger, Markus; Gutiérrez, Emilia; Cook, Edward R.

2017-07-01

Tree rings are natural archives that annually record distinct types of past climate variability depending on the parameters measured. Here, we use ring-width and stable isotopes in cellulose of trees from the northwestern Iberian Peninsula (IP) to understand regional summer hydroclimate over the last 400 years and the associated atmospheric patterns. Correlations between tree rings and climate data demonstrate that isotope signatures in the targeted Iberian pine forests are very sensitive to water availability during the summer period, and are mainly controlled by stomatal conductance. Non-linear methods based on extreme events analysis allow for capturing distinct seasonal climatic variability recorded by tree-ring parameters and asymmetric signals of the associated atmospheric features. Moreover, years with extreme high (low) values in the tree-ring records were characterised by coherent large-scale atmospheric circulation patterns with reduced (enhanced) moisture transport onto the northwestern IP. These analyses of extremes revealed that high/low proxy values do not necessarily correspond to mirror images in the atmospheric anomaly patterns, suggesting different drivers of these patterns and the corresponding signature recorded in the proxies. Regional hydroclimate features across the broader IP and western Europe during extreme wet/dry summers detected by the northwestern IP trees compare favourably to independent multicentury sea level pressure and drought reconstructions for Europe. Historical records also validate our findings that attribute non-linear moisture signals recorded by extreme tree-ring values to distinct large-scale atmospheric patterns and allow for 400-year reconstructions of the frequency of occurrence of extreme conditions in late spring and summer hydroclimate.

400 years of summer hydroclimate from stable isotopes in Iberian trees

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Andreu-Hayles, Laia; Ummenhofer, Caroline C.; Barriendos, Mariano; Schleser, Gerhard H.; Helle, Gerhard; Leuenberger, Markus; Gutierrez, Emilia; Cook, Edward R.

2017-04-01

Tree rings are natural archives that annually record distinct types of past climate variability depending on the parameters measured. Here, we use ring-width and stable isotopes in cellulose of trees from the northwestern Iberian Peninsula (IP) to understand regional summer hydroclimate over the last 400 years and the associated atmospheric patterns. Correlations between tree rings and climate data demonstrate that isotope signatures in the targeted Iberian pine forests are very sensitive to water availability during the summer period, and are mainly controlled by stomatal conductance. Non-linear methods based on extreme events analysis allow for capturing distinct seasonal climatic variability recorded by tree-ring parameters and asymmetric signals of the associated atmospheric features. Moreover, years with extreme high (low) values in the tree-ring records were characterised by coherent large-scale atmospheric circulation patterns with reduced (enhanced) moisture transport onto the northwestern IP. These analyses of extremes revealed that high/low proxy values do not necessarily correspond to mirror images in the atmospheric anomaly patterns, suggesting different drivers of these patterns and the corresponding signature recorded in the proxies. Regional hydroclimate features across the broader IP and western Europe during extreme wet/dry summers detected by the northwestern IP trees compare favourably to an independent multicentury sea level pressure and drought reconstruction for Europe. Historical records also validate our findings that attribute non-linear moisture signals recorded by extreme tree-ring values to distinct large-scale atmospheric patterns and allow for 400-yr reconstructions of the frequency of occurrence of extreme conditions in summer hydroclimate. We will discuss how the results for Lillo compare with other records.

Objective comparison of 4 nonlongitudinal ultrasound modalities regarding efficiency and chatter.

PubMed

DeMill, David L; Zaugg, Brian E; Pettey, Jeff H; Jensen, Jason D; Jardine, Griffin J; Wong, Gilbert; Olson, Randall J

2012-06-01

To compare efficiency and chatter of Infiniti Ozil with and without Intelligent Phacoemulsification (IP) and the Signature Ellips with and without FX. John A. Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA. Experimental study. Brunescent 2.0 mm human lens cubes were created by an instrument devised for this study. Cubes were tested (10 per test) for time of particle removal (efficiency) and for the number of times the lens particle bounced off the tip (chatter) at 300 mm Hg and 550 mm Hg, 50% and 100% power, and 50% and 100% amplitudes (amplitude for Ozil only). Of the ultrasound settings, efficiency varied from a mean of 3.3 seconds ± 1.4 (SD) to 50.4 ± 11.7 seconds and chatter from 0.0 to 52.0 ± 16.7 bounces per run. The Ozil-IP was generally more efficient than the Ozil and the Ellips FX more efficient than the Ellips. At optimized values, the Ozil-IP and Ellips-FX were similar. In general, efficiency and chatter were better at 550 mm Hg and at 50% power. The amplitude effect was complex. Efficiency closely correlated with chatter (Pearson r(2) = .31, P<.0001). Objective comparison of phacoemulsification efficiency and chatter found that optimized Ozil-IP and Ellips-FX were similar in both parameters and in general, both performed better than preceding technology. The study parameters can significantly affect efficiency and chatter, which strongly correlate with each other. Copyright © 2012 ASCRS and ESCRS. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Power Balance Modeling of Local Helicity Injection for Non-Solenoidal ST Startup

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Weberski, J. D.; Barr, J. L.; Bongard, M. W.; Fonck, R. J.; Perry, J. M.; Reusch, J. A.

2017-10-01

A zero-dimensional power balance model for predicting Ip(t) for Local Helicity Injection (LHI) discharges has been used to interpret experimental results from recent experimental campaigns using high-field-side (HFS) helicity injection. This model quantifies LHI's effective drive (Veff) through helicity balance while enforcing the Taylor relaxation current limit and tracking inductive effects to determine Ip(t) . Recent analysis of HFS LHI discharges indicate LHI is the dominant source of drive and provides Veff up to 1.3 V while geometric effects and inductive drive provide < 0.1 V throughout much of the discharge. In contrast to previous analysis of low-field-side (LFS) LHI discharges, which were driven by Veff = 0.3 V and 2.0 V from geometric effects and inductive drive. A significant remaining uncertainty in the model is the resistive dissipation of LHI discharges. This requires greater understanding of LHI confinement scaling and impurity content, which are currently under investigation. However, the model and experimental Ip(t) exhibit good agreement for parameters consistent with previous experimental findings. Extrapolation of plasma parameters and shaping from recent experiments allow for the model to project the performance of LHI systems. These projections indicate Ip 0.3 MA can be accessed on Pegasus via HFS LHI through changes to injector geometry to provide more Veff. This regime can be accessed via a LFS system by increasing the Taylor relaxation current limit early in the discharge. Work supported by US DOE Grants DE-FG02-96ER54375 and DE-SC0006928.

Changes in resting-state fMRI in vestibular neuritis.

PubMed

Helmchen, Christoph; Ye, Zheng; Sprenger, Andreas; Münte, Thomas F

2014-11-01

Vestibular neuritis (VN) is a sudden peripheral unilateral vestibular failure with often persistent head movement-related dizziness and unsteadiness. Compensation of asymmetrical activity in the primary peripheral vestibular afferents is accomplished by restoration of impaired brainstem vestibulo-ocular and vestibulo-spinal reflexes, but presumably also by changing cortical vestibular tone imbalance subserving, e.g., spatial perception and orientation. The aim of this study was to elucidate (i) whether there are changes of cerebral resting-state networks with respect to functional interregional connectivity (resting-state activity) in VN patients and (ii) whether these are related to neurophysiological, perceptual and functional parameters of vestibular-induced disability. Using independent component analysis (ICA), we compared resting-state networks between 20 patients with unilateral VN and 20 age- and gender-matched healthy control subjects. Patients were examined in the acute VN stage and after 3 months. A neural network (component 50) comprising the parietal lobe, medial aspect of the superior parietal lobule, posterior cingulate cortex, middle frontal gyrus, middle temporal gyrus, parahippocampal gyrus, anterior cingulate cortex, insular cortex, caudate nucleus, thalamus and midbrain was modulated between acute VN patients and healthy controls and in patients over time. Within this network, acute VN patients showed decreased resting-state activity (ICA) in the contralateral intraparietal sulcus (IPS), in close vicinity to the supramarginal gyrus (SMG), which increased after 3 months. Resting-state activity in IPS tended to increase over 3 months in VN patients who improved with respect to functional parameters of vestibular-induced disability (VADL). Resting-state activity in the IPS was not related to perceptual (subjective visual vertical) or neurophysiological parameters of vestibular-induced disability (e.g., gain of vestibulo-ocular reflex, caloric responsiveness, postural sway). VN leads to a change in resting-state activity of the contralateral IPS adjacent to the SMG, which reverses during vestibular compensation over 3 months. The ventral intraparietal area in the IPS contains multimodal regions with directionally selective responses to vestibular stimuli making them suitable for participating in spatial orientation and multisensory integration. The clinical importance is indicated by the fact that the increase in resting-state activity tended to be larger in those patients with only little disability at the follow-up examination. This may indicate powerful restitution-related or compensatory cortical changes in resting-state activity.

Speech transport for packet telephony and voice over IP

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Baker, Maurice R.

1999-11-01

Recent advances in packet switching, internetworking, and digital signal processing technologies have converged to allow realizable practical implementations of packet telephony systems. This paper provides a tutorial on transmission engineering for packet telephony covering the topics of speech coding/decoding, speech packetization, packet data network transport, and impairments which may negatively impact end-to-end system quality. Particular emphasis is placed upon Voice over Internet Protocol given the current popularity and ubiquity of IP transport.

Constructing Cost-Effective and Targetable ICS Honeypots Suited for Production Networks

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-03-26

introducing Honeyd+ has a marginal impact on performance. Notable findings are that the Raspberry Pi is the preferred hosting platform for the EtherNet/IP... Raspberry Pi or Gumstix, which is a low-cost approach to replicating multiple decoys. One hidden drawback to low- interaction honeypots is the extensive time...EtherNet/IP industrial protocol. Honeyd+ is hosted on a low-cost computing platform ( Raspberry Pi running Raspbian, approximately $50) and a high-cost

The impact of sea surface temperature on winter wheat in Iberian Peninsula

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Capa-Morocho, Mirian; Rodríguez-Fonseca, Belen; Ruiz-Ramos, Margarita

2016-04-01

Climate variability is the main driver of changes in crops yield, especially for rainfed production systems. This is also the case of Iberian Peninsula (IP) (Capa-Morocho et al., 2014), where wheat yields are strongly dependent on seasonal rainfall amount and temporal distribution of rainfall during the growing season. Previous works have shown that large-scale oceanic patterns have a significant impact on precipitation over IP (Rodriguez-Fonseca and de Castro, 2002; Rodríguez-Fonseca et al., 2006). The existence of some predictability of precipitation has encouraged us to analyze the possible predictability of the wheat yield in the IP using sea surface temperature (SST) anomalies as predictor. For this purpose, a crop model site specific calibrated for the Northeast of IP and several reanalysis climate datasets have been used to obtain long time series of attainable wheat yield and relate their variability with SST anomalies. The results show that wheat yield anomalies are associated with changes in the Tropical Pacific (El Niño) and Atlantic (TNA) SST. For these events, the regional associated atmospheric pattern resembles the NAO, which also influences directly on the maximum temperatures and precipitation experienced by the crop during flowering and grain filling. Results from this study could have important implications for predictability issues in agricultural planning and management, such as insurance coverage, changes in sowing dates and choice of species and varieties.

GMI-IPS: Python Processing Software for Aircraft Campaigns

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Damon, M. R.; Strode, S. A.; Steenrod, S. D.; Prather, M. J.

2018-01-01

NASA's Atmospheric Tomography Mission (ATom) seeks to understand the impact of anthropogenic air pollution on gases in the Earth's atmosphere. Four flight campaigns are being deployed on a seasonal basis to establish a continuous global-scale data set intended to improve the representation of chemically reactive gases in global atmospheric chemistry models. The Global Modeling Initiative (GMI), is creating chemical transport simulations on a global scale for each of the ATom flight campaigns. To meet the computational demands required to translate the GMI simulation data to grids associated with the flights from the ATom campaigns, the GMI ICARTT Processing Software (GMI-IPS) has been developed and is providing key functionality for data processing and analysis in this ongoing effort. The GMI-IPS is written in Python and provides computational kernels for data interpolation and visualization tasks on GMI simulation data. A key feature of the GMI-IPS, is its ability to read ICARTT files, a text-based file format for airborne instrument data, and extract the required flight information that defines regional and temporal grid parameters associated with an ATom flight. Perhaps most importantly, the GMI-IPS creates ICARTT files containing GMI simulated data, which are used in collaboration with ATom instrument teams and other modeling groups. The initial main task of the GMI-IPS is to interpolate GMI model data to the finer temporal resolution (1-10 seconds) of a given flight. The model data includes basic fields such as temperature and pressure, but the main focus of this effort is to provide species concentrations of chemical gases for ATom flights. The software, which uses parallel computation techniques for data intensive tasks, linearly interpolates each of the model fields to the time resolution of the flight. The temporally interpolated data is then saved to disk, and is used to create additional derived quantities. In order to translate the GMI model data to the spatial grid of the flight path as defined by the pressure, latitude, and longitude points at each flight time record, a weighted average is then calculated from the nearest neighbors in two dimensions (latitude, longitude). Using SciPya's Regular Grid Interpolator, interpolation functions are generated for the GMI model grid and the calculated weighted averages. The flight path points are then extracted from the ATom ICARTT instrument file, and are sent to the multi-dimensional interpolating functions to generate GMI field quantities along the spatial path of the flight. The interpolated field quantities are then written to a ICARTT data file, which is stored for further manipulation. The GMI-IPS is aware of a generic ATom ICARTT header format, containing basic information for all flight campaigns. The GMI-IPS includes logic to edit metadata for the derived field quantities, as well as modify the generic header data such as processing dates and associated instrument files. The ICARTT interpolated data is then appended to the modified header data, and the ICARTT processing is complete for the given flight and ready for collaboration. The output ICARTT data adheres to the ICARTT file format standards V1.1. The visualization component of the GMI-IPS uses Matplotlib extensively and has several functions ranging in complexity. First, it creates a model background curtain for the flight (time versus model eta levels) with the interpolated flight data superimposed on the curtain. Secondly, it creates a time-series plot of the interpolated flight data. Lastly, the visualization component creates averaged 2D model slices (longitude versus latitude) with overlaid flight track circles at key pressure levels. The GMI-IPS consists of a handful of classes and supporting functionality that have been generalized to be compatible with any ICARTT file that adheres to the base class definition. The base class represents a generic ICARTT entry, only defining a single time entry and 3D spatial positioning parameters. Other classes inherit from this base class; several classes for input ICARTT instrument files, which contain the necessary flight positioning information as a basis for data processing, as well as other classes for output ICARTT files, which contain the interpolated model data. Utility classes provide functionality for routine procedures such as: comparing field names among ICARTT files, reading ICARTT entries from a data file and storing them in data structures, and returning a reduced spatial grid based on a collection of ICARTT entries. Although the GMI-IPS is compatible with GMI model data, it can be adapted with reasonable effort for any simulation that creates Hierarchical Data Format (HDF) files. The same can be said of its adaptability to ICARTT files outside of the context of the ATom mission. The GMI-IPS contains just under 30,000 lines of code, eight classes, and a dozen drivers and utility programs. It is maintained with GIT source code management and has been used to deliver processed GMI model data for the ATom campaigns that have taken place to date.

Evolution of infection in mice inoculated by the oral route with different developmental forms of Trypanosoma cruzi I and II.

PubMed

Dias, Greicy Brisa Malaquias; Gruendling, Ana Paula; Araújo, Silvana Marques; Gomes, Mônica Lúcia; Toledo, Max Jean de Ornelas

2013-11-01

Oral infection has become the most important transmission mechanism of Chagas disease in Brazil. For this study, the development of Trypanosoma cruzi infection in mice, induced by the oral and intraperitoneal (IP) routes, was compared. Four groups of Swiss mice were used to evaluate the influence of parasite genetics, number of parasites, inoculation volume and developmental stages on the development of the orally induced infection: 1 - blood trypomastigotes (BT) via oral; 2 - BT via IP; 3 - culture metacyclic trypomastigotes (MT) via oral; and 4 - culture MT via IP. Animals inoculated orally showed levels of parasitemia, as well as infectivity and mortality rates, lower than animals inoculated via IP, regardless of DTU (discrete typing unit) and inoculum. Animals infected with TcII showed higher levels of these parameters than did animals infected with TcI. The larger volume of inoculum showed a greater capacity to cause an infection when administered via the oral route. BT infection was more virulent than culture MT infection for both routes (oral and IP). However, mice inoculated orally with BT showed lower levels than via IP, while mice inoculated orally with culture MT showed similar levels of infection to those inoculated via IP. Mice inoculated with culture MT showed more histopathological changes than those inoculated with BT, regardless of the inoculation route. These results indicate that this alternative experimental model is useful for evaluating infection by T. cruzi isolates with subpatent parasitemia and low virulence, such as those belonging to the TcI and TcIV DTUs, which are prevalent in outbreaks of orally transmitted Chagas disease. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Effects of intravenous gadolinium administration and flip angle on the assessment of liver fat signal fraction with opposed-phase and in-phase imaging.

PubMed

Yokoo, Takeshi; Collins, Julie M; Hanna, Robert F; Bydder, Mark; Middleton, Michael S; Sirlin, Claude B

2008-07-01

To assess the effects of intravenous gadolinium (Gd) and flip angle (FA) on liver fat quantification by opposed-phase (OP) and in-phase (IP) imaging. Our Institutional Review Board (IRB) approved this Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)-compliant, retrospective, clinical study. We identified 79 patients in whom abdominal OP and IP gradient-echoes were obtained at 1.5T before and after Gd administration. All 79 patients were imaged at high FA (> or =70 degrees ); 57 were also imaged at low FA (< or =20 degrees ). Fat signal fraction (FSF) was calculated from pre- and post-Gd liver images for each subject and FA using the formula, FSF = (S(IP) - S(OP))/2S(IP), where S(IP) and S(OP) are the OP and IP signal intensities, respectively. The dataset pairs (pre-Gd vs. post-Gd; high-FA vs. low-FA) were compared using linear regression analysis. Before Gd, FSF was significantly greater at high FA than at low FA, with regression parameters (slope/intercept) of 1.27*/0.02*, where * indicates P value <0.01. After Gd, FSF was similar at high and low FA (0.99/-0.00). Gd administration caused an FA-dependent reduction in FSF, larger at high FA (0.68*/-0.03*) than at low FA (0.94, -0.01*). FSF by OP-IP imaging is highly dependent on FA before Gd, but this dependency is eliminated after administration of Gd. Gd appears to minimize the effect of T1-weighting and may improve the accuracy of liver fat quantification. (c) 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Structural Exploration of Quinazolin-4(3H)-ones as Anticonvulsants: Rational Design, Synthesis, Pharmacological Evaluation, and Molecular Docking Studies.

PubMed

Ugale, Vinod G; Bari, Sanjay B

2016-11-01

Anticonvulsants effective against multiple seizures are of wide interest as antiepileptic drugs, especially if active against pharmaco-resistant seizures. Herein, we synthesized 16 different, rationally designed 2-((6,7-dimethoxy-4-oxo-2-phenylquinazolin-3(4H)-yl)amino)-N-(substituted phenyl)acetamides and screened for anticonvulsant activities through in vivo experiments. Compound 4d emerged as prototype with excellent anti-seizure action in mice against electroshock, chemically induced and pharmaco-resistant 6-Hz seizure models with no symptoms of neurotoxicity and hepatotoxicity (ED 50  = 23.5 mg/kg, MES, mice, i.p.; ED 50  = 32.6 mg/kg, scPTZ, mice, i.p.; ED 50  = 45.2 mg/kg, 6-Hz, mice, i.p.; TD 50  = 325.9 mg/kg, mice, i.p.). In addition, investigation of compound 4l in mice for its pharmacological profile proved it as safer anticonvulsant, devoid of the side effects such as motor dysfunction and hepatotoxicity of classical antiepileptic drugs (ED 50  = 26.1 mg/kg, MES, mice, i.p.; ED 50  = 79.4 mg/kg, scPTZ, mice, i.p.; TD 50  = 361.2 mg/kg, mice, i.p.). We also predicted physiochemical and pharmacokinetic properties of structurally optimized quinazolin-4(3H)-ones by a computational protocol. A combination of in vivo anticonvulsant profile, ex vivo toxicity, and in silico studies suggested that the synthesized compounds may be useful as broad-spectrum anti-seizure drug candidates with favorable pharmacokinetic parameters. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Bioinformatic approaches to interrogating vitamin D receptor signaling.

PubMed

Campbell, Moray J

2017-09-15

Bioinformatics applies unbiased approaches to develop statistically-robust insight into health and disease. At the global, or "20,000 foot" view bioinformatic analyses of vitamin D receptor (NR1I1/VDR) signaling can measure where the VDR gene or protein exerts a genome-wide significant impact on biology; VDR is significantly implicated in bone biology and immune systems, but not in cancer. With a more VDR-centric, or "2000 foot" view, bioinformatic approaches can interrogate events downstream of VDR activity. Integrative approaches can combine VDR ChIP-Seq in cell systems where significant volumes of publically available data are available. For example, VDR ChIP-Seq studies can be combined with genome-wide association studies to reveal significant associations to immune phenotypes. Similarly, VDR ChIP-Seq can be combined with data from Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) to infer the impact of VDR target genes in cancer progression. Therefore, bioinformatic approaches can reveal what aspects of VDR downstream networks are significantly related to disease or phenotype. Copyright © 2017 The Author. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Cord Blood 8-Isoprostane in the Preterm Infant

PubMed Central

Mestan, Karen; Matoba, Nana; Arguelles, Lester; Harvey, Candace; Ernst, Linda M.; Farrow, Kathryn; Wang, Xiaobin

2012-01-01

Background Cord blood 8-isoprostane (8-IP) is a marker of lipid peroxidation in the peripartum period. The independent association with degree of prematurity is not well-described. Objective To identify patterns of lipid peroxidation among early, moderate and late preterm infants, and to understand how cord blood 8-IP varies with gestational age (GA) and related covariates. Study Design Mother-infant pairs from 237 preterm births were studied as part of a longitudinal birth cohort study. GA subgroups were defined as extremely (≤28w), moderately (29-33w), and late (34-36w) preterm. Cord blood 8-IP was measured using EIA. Elevated 8-IP (4th quartile) was the primary outcome for multivariate logistic regression models, which were adjusted for maternal age/race, multiple gestation and infant gender, as well as other relevant covariates. Results Elevated 8-IP was associated with extremely preterm birth (OR=4.31; 95% CI=1.90, 9.76), and was inversely associated with increasing GA (OR=0.88; 95% CI=0.80, 0.97). Elevated 8-IP was also associated with decreasing birth weight (BW), clinical chorioamnionitis, fetal inflammatory response of the placenta (FIR), and signs of perinatal depression. The GA on 8-IP association appeared to be modified by several maternal disease and fetal-infant factors. Lastly, the indirect associations between log-transformed 8-IP, GA and BW appeared to be most prominent for GA<30w and for BW<2000 grams. Conclusion Lipid peroxidation in preterm birth, and the relative influence of accompanying peripartum factors, varies according to degree of prematurity. These findings have important implications for the developmental regulation of antioxidant defense and its impact on neonatal outcomes. PMID:22425039

Evolution of interprofessional learning: Dalhousie University's "From Family Violence to Health" module.

PubMed

Johnston, Grace M; Ryding, Helen A; Campbell, Lindsay M

2003-11-01

At Dalhousie University, interprofessional (IP) learning modules are used to help future health care professionals learn to work together in resolving complex problems. One module, "From Family Violence to Health," features the role of dental professionals. This paper describes the evolution of this module from the year 2000. By February 2003, 1,182 students from 15 health care professions had completed the module. Qualitative evaluation in years 1 and 2 of the program (2000 and 2001) revealed that, before participating in the IP module, many students were able to identify a role for themselves in the recognition of family violence and knew their responsibility to report incidents. However, after participating in the module, they had a greater understanding of the reporting of family violence, a more comprehensive and supportive perspective, increased recognition of how health care professionals could work together and improved awareness of the roles of other professions. In a quantitative evaluation in year 3 (2002), mean student ratings on a scale of 1 to 5 indicated that the IP module was relevant (4.2), increased their understanding of family violence (4.0), and had some impact in promoting IP learning (3.8). As health care delivery becomes more focused on care teams and system thinking, the provision of IP training is expected to increase. The Dalhousie University IP modules (available at http://www.dal.ca/~fhp/ipl/index.html) address health and social problems for which it is critical that health care and other professionals work together. Feedback from practitioners on the development of IP education is welcomed, particularly with regard to the IP module addressing family violence.

A Knowledge-Based Approach for Item Exposure Control in Computerized Adaptive Testing

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Doong, Shing H.

2009-01-01

The purpose of this study is to investigate a functional relation between item exposure parameters (IEPs) and item parameters (IPs) over parallel pools. This functional relation is approximated by a well-known tool in machine learning. Let P and Q be parallel item pools and suppose IEPs for P have been obtained via a Sympson and Hetter-type…

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

Gopishankar, N; Agarwal, Priyanka; Bisht, Raj Kishor

Purpose: To evaluate forward and inverse planning methods for acoustic neuroma cases treated in Gamma Knife Perfexion. Methods: Five patients with acoustic neuroma tumour abutting brainstem were planned twice in LGP TPS (Version 10.1) using TMR10 algorithm. First plan was entirely based on forward planning (FP) in which each shot was chosen manually. Second plan was generated using inverse planning (IP) for which planning parameters like coverage, selectivity, gradient index (GI) and beam-on time threshold were set. Number of shots in IP was automatically selected by objective function using iterative process. In both planning methods MRI MPRAGE sequence images weremore » used for tumour localization and planning. A planning dose of 12Gy at 50% isodose level was chosen. Results and Discussion: Number of shots used in FP was greater than IP and beam-on time in FP was in average 1.4 times more than IP. One advantage of FP was that the brainstem volume subjected to 6Gy dose (25% isodose) was less in FP than IP. Our results showed use of more number of shots as in FP results in GI less than or equal to 2.55 which is close to its lower limit. Dose homogeneity index (DHI) analysis of FP and IP showed average values of 0.59 and 0.67 respectively. General trend in GK for planning in acoustic neuroma cases is to use small collimator shots to avoid dose to adjacent critical structures. More number of shots and prolonged treatment time causes inconvenience to the patients. Similarly overuse of automatic shot shaping as in IP results in increased scatter dose. A compromise is required in shot selection for these cases. Conclusion: IP method could be used in acoustic neuroma cases to decrease treatment time provided the source sector openings near brainstem are shielded or adjusted appropriately to reduce brainstem dose.« less

Interferon-γ-inducible protein-10 in chronic hepatitis C: Correlations with insulin resistance, histological features & sustained virological response.

PubMed

Crisan, Dana; Grigorescu, Mircea Dan; Radu, Corina; Suciu, Alina; Grigorescu, Mircea

2017-04-01

One of the multiple factors contributing to virological response in chronic hepatitis C (CHC) is interferon-gamma-inducible protein-10 (IP-10). Its level reflects the status of interferon-stimulated genes, which in turn is associated with virological response to antiviral therapy. The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of serum IP-10 levels on sustained virological response (SVR) and the association of this parameter with insulin resistance (IR) and liver histology. Two hundred and three consecutive biopsy proven CHC patients were included in the study. Serum levels of IP-10 were determined using ELISA method. IR was evaluated by homeostasis model assessment-IR (HOMA-IR). Histological features were assessed invasively by liver biopsy and noninvasively using FibroTest, ActiTest and SteatoTest. Predictive factors for SVR and their interrelations were assessed. A cut-off value for IP-10 of 392 pg/ml was obtained to discriminate between responders and non-responders. SVR was obtained in 107 patients (52.70%). Area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for SVR was 0.875 with a sensitivity of 91.6 per cent, specificity 74.7 per cent, positive predictive value 80.3 per cent and negative predictive value 88.7 per cent. Higher values of IP-10 were associated with increasing stages of fibrosis (P<0.01) and higher grades of inflammation (P=0.02, P=0.07) assessed morphologically and noninvasively through FibroTest and ActiTest. Significant steatosis and IR were also associated with increased levels of IP-10 (P=0.01 and P=0.02). In multivariate analysis, IP-10 levels and fibrosis stages were independently associated with SVR. Our findings showed that the assessment of serum IP-10 level could be a predictive factor for SVR and it was associated with fibrosis, necroinflammatory activity, significant steatosis and IR in patients with chronic HCV infection.

ASN reputation system model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hutchinson, Steve; Erbacher, Robert F.

2015-05-01

Network security monitoring is currently challenged by its reliance on human analysts and the inability for tools to generate indications and warnings for previously unknown attacks. We propose a reputation system based on IP address set membership within the Autonomous System Number (ASN) system. Essentially, a metric generated based on the historic behavior, or misbehavior, of nodes within a given ASN can be used to predict future behavior and provide a mechanism to locate network activity requiring inspection. This will provide reinforcement of notifications and warnings and lead to inspection for ASNs known to be problematic even if initial inspection leads to interpretation of the event as innocuous. We developed proof of concept capabilities to generate the IP address to ASN set membership and analyze the impact of the results. These results clearly show that while some ASNs are one-offs with individual or small numbers of misbehaving IP addresses, there are definitive ASNs with a history of long term and wide spread misbehaving IP addresses. These ASNs with long histories are what we are especially interested in and will provide an additional correlation metric for the human analyst and lead to new tools to aid remediation of these IP address blocks.

Migration of the Cratering Flow-Field Center with Implications for Scaling Oblique Impacts

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Anderson, J. L. B.; Schultz, P. H.; Heineck, J. T.

2004-01-01

Crater-scaling relationships are used to predict many cratering phenomena such as final crater diameter and ejection speeds. Such nondimensional relationships are commonly determined from experimental impact and explosion data. Almost without exception, these crater-scaling relationships have used data from vertical impacts (90 deg. to the horizontal). The majority of impact craters, however, form by impacts at angles near 45 deg. to the horizontal. While even low impact angles result in relatively circular craters in sand targets, the effects of impact angle have been shown to extend well into the excavation stage of crater growth. Thus, the scaling of oblique impacts needs to be investigated more thoroughly in order to quantify fully how impact angle affects ejection speed and angle. In this study, ejection parameters from vertical (90 deg.) and 30 deg. oblique impacts are measured using three-dimensional particle image velocimetry (3D PIV) at the NASA Ames Vertical Gun Range (AVGR). The primary goal is to determine the horizontal migration of the cratering flow-field center (FFC). The location of the FFC at the time of ejection controls the scaling of oblique impacts. For vertical impacts the FFC coincides with the impact point (IP) and the crater center (CC). Oblique impacts reflect a more complex, horizontally migrating flow-field. A single, stationary point-source model cannot be used accurately to describe the evolution of the ejection angles from oblique impacts. The ejection speeds for oblique impacts also do not follow standard scaling relationships. The migration of the FFC needs to be understood and incorporated into any revised scaling relationships.

Induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells: a new source for cell-based therapeutics?

PubMed

de Lázaro, Irene; Yilmazer, Açelya; Kostarelos, Kostas

2014-07-10

The generation of induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells from somatic cells by the ectopic expression of defined transcription factors has provided the regenerative medicine field with a new tool for cell replacement strategies. The advantages that these pluripotent cells can offer in comparison to other sources of stem cells include the generation of patient-derived cells and the lack of embryonic tissue while maintaining a versatile differentiation potential. The promise of iPS cell derivatives for therapeutic applications is encouraging albeit very early in development, with the first clinical study currently ongoing in Japan. Many challenges are yet to be circumvented before this technology can be clinically translated widely though. The delivery and expression of the reprogramming factors, the genomic instability, epigenetic memory and impact of cell propagation in culture are only some of the concerns. This article aims to critically discuss the potential of iPS cells as a new source of cell therapeutics. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Fast estimation of space-robots inertia parameters: A modular mathematical formulation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nabavi Chashmi, Seyed Yaser; Malaek, Seyed Mohammad-Bagher

2016-10-01

This work aims to propose a new technique that considerably helps enhance time and precision needed to identify ;Inertia Parameters (IPs); of a typical Autonomous Space-Robot (ASR). Operations might include, capturing an unknown Target Space-Object (TSO), ;active space-debris removal; or ;automated in-orbit assemblies;. In these operations generating precise successive commands are essential to the success of the mission. We show how a generalized, repeatable estimation-process could play an effective role to manage the operation. With the help of the well-known Force-Based approach, a new ;modular formulation; has been developed to simultaneously identify IPs of an ASR while it captures a TSO. The idea is to reorganize the equations with associated IPs with a ;Modular Set; of matrices instead of a single matrix representing the overall system dynamics. The devised Modular Matrix Set will then facilitate the estimation process. It provides a conjugate linear model in mass and inertia terms. The new formulation is, therefore, well-suited for ;simultaneous estimation processes; using recursive algorithms like RLS. Further enhancements would be needed for cases the effect of center of mass location becomes important. Extensive case studies reveal that estimation time is drastically reduced which in-turn paves the way to acquire better results.

Infection prevention workforce: Potential benefits to educational diversity.

PubMed

Reese, Sara M; Gilmartin, Heather M

2017-06-01

Nurses have historically occupied the infection preventionist (IP) role. As the knowledge and skills needed to advance the field expand, professionals from public health and the laboratory sciences have become IPs. Our study describes the characteristics of current IPs and assesses for relationships between background, certification, experience, and type of work performed. The data were drawn from an existing dataset collected in the conduct of the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC) MegaSurvey. Descriptive statistics were computed. Associations were calculated using χ 2 or Cochran-Mantel-Haenszel tests. Characteristics of IPs were stratified by work-related activities to allow for comparisons between groups. Of the 13,050 active APIC members, 4,079 participated in the survey (31% response rate). The primary job activity for nurses (97.9%; n = 2,434) was preventing and controlling the transmission of infectious agents or health care-associated infections, for laboratory scientists (97.5%; n = 307) it was the interpretation of surveillance data, and for public health professionals (96.1%; n = 136) it was management and communication: feedback. Infection control departments would benefit from hiring IPs with diverse education and training to address the expanding roles and responsibilities of IPs. This may facilitate the implementation of novel and innovative processes that will impact patient care. Copyright © 2017 Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology, Inc. All rights reserved.

Benefit-Cost Analysis of Integrated Paratransit Systems : Volume 5. The Impacts of Technological Innovation.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1979-09-01

A number of new technologies have been implemented with or proposed for paratransit systems. As part of the overall IP benefit cost study, the potential impact of two such technologies, digital communications and computer dispatching, have been analy...

The impact of top-down spatial attention on laterality and hemispheric asymmetry in the human parietal cortex

PubMed Central

Jeong, Su Keun; Xu, Yaoda

2016-01-01

The human parietal cortex exhibits a preference to contralaterally presented visual stimuli (i.e., laterality) as well as an asymmetry between the two hemispheres with the left parietal cortex showing greater laterality than the right. Using visual short-term memory and perceptual tasks and varying target location predictability, this study examined whether hemispheric laterality and asymmetry are fixed characteristics of the human parietal cortex or whether they are dynamic and modulated by the deployment of top-down attention to the target present hemifield. Two parietal regions were examined here that have previously been shown to be involved in visual object individuation and identification and are located in the inferior and superior intraparietal sulcus (IPS), respectively. Across three experiments, significant laterality was found in both parietal regions regardless of attentional modulation with laterality being greater in the inferior than superior IPS, consistent with their roles in object individuation and identification, respectively. Although the deployment of top-down attention had no effect on the superior IPS, it significantly increased laterality in the inferior IPS. The deployment of top-down spatial attention can thus amplify the strength of laterality in the inferior IPS. Hemispheric asymmetry, on the other hand, was absent in both brain regions and only emerged in the inferior but not the superior IPS with the deployment of top-down attention. Interestingly, the strength of hemispheric asymmetry significantly correlated with the strength of laterality in the inferior IPS. Hemispheric asymmetry thus seems to only emerge when there is a sufficient amount of laterality present in a brain region. PMID:27494544

The impact of top-down spatial attention on laterality and hemispheric asymmetry in the human parietal cortex.

PubMed

Jeong, Su Keun; Xu, Yaoda

2016-08-01

The human parietal cortex exhibits a preference to contralaterally presented visual stimuli (i.e., laterality) as well as an asymmetry between the two hemispheres with the left parietal cortex showing greater laterality than the right. Using visual short-term memory and perceptual tasks and varying target location predictability, this study examined whether hemispheric laterality and asymmetry are fixed characteristics of the human parietal cortex or whether they are dynamic and modulated by the deployment of top-down attention to the target present hemifield. Two parietal regions were examined here that have previously been shown to be involved in visual object individuation and identification and are located in the inferior and superior intraparietal sulcus (IPS), respectively. Across three experiments, significant laterality was found in both parietal regions regardless of attentional modulation with laterality being greater in the inferior than superior IPS, consistent with their roles in object individuation and identification, respectively. Although the deployment of top-down attention had no effect on the superior IPS, it significantly increased laterality in the inferior IPS. The deployment of top-down spatial attention can thus amplify the strength of laterality in the inferior IPS. Hemispheric asymmetry, on the other hand, was absent in both brain regions and only emerged in the inferior but not the superior IPS with the deployment of top-down attention. Interestingly, the strength of hemispheric asymmetry significantly correlated with the strength of laterality in the inferior IPS. Hemispheric asymmetry thus seems to only emerge when there is a sufficient amount of laterality present in a brain region.

Benefit-Cost Analysis of Integrated Paratransit Systems : Volume 2. Introduction and Framework for Analysis.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1979-09-01

The study represents the first systematic attempt to estimate the potential impacts of a wide range of IP options in different settings. The output of this study should provide local decision-makers with a better understanding of the varied impacts a...

People are satisfied with it.

PubMed

Hata, K

1992-08-01

The success of the integrated Family Planning (FP) and Parasite Control Project (IP) of Indonesia is discussed in terms of the government's view, the major characteristics of IP, the major problem, future funding sources, the purposes of community participation, obstacles encountered, and impact. Ministry policymakers consider IP effective and desirable, and suggest IP in remote areas with poor infrastructure such as Lombok in West Nusa Tenggara Province. Health is improved for parents and children initially. The project is self-reliant with small, affordable fees. Support has come from the Indonesian Planned Parenthood Association and Kusuma Buana Foundation; although external financial assistance has ceased, expansion is possible with the income generated. The Jakarta Municipal government may pick up the cost of implementing it through the public health center Pukesmas, either with existing project staff or local staff in collaboration with IP staff. The government is not ready to implement it because control of intestinal parasites is of low priority. Major problems are the uneven performance particularly in IP bases in Jakarta, which is attributed to lack of concern by managers for community health conditions. Community participation is important because people are eager to learn how to prevent the parasitic invasions after being successfully treated. When success in cleaning houses and toilets and lower incidence of infection is accomplished, then people trust and use the health services more. Obstacles have been the cost of building hygienic latrines and access to safe and potable water, particularly in slum areas of Jakarta, and changing institutional representation on the IP project National Coordinating Forum, the IP policy making group, and officials from government FP and Health and Education Departments. Government officials need to understand the intricacies of how IP operates. Evaluation is difficult with measures such as the fertility rate or infant mortality rate. Project staff are satisfied with the increase in health consciousness of clients, and the use of paid services. A study by the Forum found that FP participation among the target community increased compared with baseline data, but FP information is available from multiple sources in Jakarta and it would be presumptuous to believe that community participation was solely due to IP.

Epigenome analysis of pluripotent stem cells

PubMed Central

Ricupero, Christopher L.; Swerdel, Mavis R.; Hart, Ronald P.

2015-01-01

Summary Mis-regulation of gene expression due to epigenetic abnormalities has been linked with complex genetic disorders, psychiatric illness and cancer. In addition, the dynamic epigenetic changes that occur in pluripotent stem cells are believed to impact regulatory networks essential for proper lineage development. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) is a technique used to isolate and enrich chromatin fragments using antibodies against specific chromatin modifications, such as DNA binding proteins or covalent histone modifications. Until recently, many ChIP protocols required millions of cells for each immunoprecipitation. This severely limited analysis of rare cell populations or post-mitotic, differentiated cell lines. Here, we describe a low cell number ChIP protocol with next generation sequencing and analysis, that has the potential to uncover novel epigenetic regulatory pathways that were previously difficult or impossible to obtain. PMID:23546758

[Co-administration of intranasally delivered insulin and proinsulin C-peptide to rats with the types 1 and 2 diabetes mellitus restores their metabolic parameters.

PubMed

Derkach, K V; Bondareva, V M; Shpakov, A O

2017-01-01

The C-peptide, the product of proinsulin proteolysis, not only is a signal molecule, but also, forming a complex with insulin, is able to modulate the signaling functions of insulin. The signaling systems sensitive to insulin in the hypothalamus and other brain areas are among the targets of insulin. We hypothesized that in systemic deficiency of insulin and C-peptide in the type 1 diabetes mellitus (DM) and in severe forms of the type 2 DM, the increase in the level of C-peptide in the CNS will improve central effects of insulin, including its influence on peripheral metabolism. To verify this, the influence of separate and co-administration of intranasal insulin (II) and C-peptide (IP) on their metabolic parameters and sensitivity to insulin in rats with acute and mild type 1 DM induced by the treatment with streptozotocin at the doses of 60 and 35 mg/kg and in rats with neonatal type 2 DM corresponding to severe long-term form of type 2 DM in human was studied. The treatment of animals with II and IP was carried out for 7 days in the daily doses of 20 and 10 μg/rat, respectively. The co-administration of II and IP leading to an increase of insulin and C-peptide levels in the brain was most effective. In rats with type 1 DM treated with the combination of II plus IP, hyperglycemia was decreased and weight loss was prevented. In rats with type 2 DM, co-administration of II and IP led to the normalization of glucose homeostasis and the increase in insulin sensitivity, as shown by glucose-tolerance and insulin-glucose tolerance tests, and to improvement of lipid metabolism, as demonstrated by the decrease in the atherogenic index. The effectiveness of monotherapy with II was lower than in the case of a combination of II+IP, while monotherapy with C-peptide had little effect on the indicators studied. Thus, the simultaneous increase of insulin and C-peptide levels in the brain in the conditions of their deficiency in diabetic pathology can be considered as one of the promising approaches to restore the central insulin-dependent regulation of peripheral metabolism and to improve the utilization of glucose in different forms of DM.

Comparative pharmacokinetics of cefuroxime lysine after single intravenous, intraperitoneal, and intramuscular administration to rats.

PubMed

Zhao, Long-shan; Yin, Ran; Wei, Bin-bin; Li, Qing; Jiang, Zhen-yuan; Chen, Xiao-hui; Bi, Kai-shun

2012-11-01

To compare the pharmacokinetic parameters of cefuroxime lysine, a new second-generation of cephalosporin antibiotics, after intravenous (IV), intraperitoneal (IP), or intramuscular (IM) administration. Twelve male and 12 virgin female Sprague-Dawley rats, weighing from 200 to 250 g, were divided into three groups (n=4 for each gender in each group). The rats were administered a single dose (67.5 mg/kg) of cefuroxime lysine via IV bolus or IP or IM injection. Blood samples were collected and analyzed with a validated UFLC-MS/MS method. The concentration-time data were then calculated by compartmental and non-compartmental pharmacokinetic methods using DAS software. After IV, IP or IM administration, the plasma cefuroxime lysine disposition was best described by a tri-compartmental, bi-compartmental or mono-compartmental open model, respectively, with first-order elimination. The plasma concentration profiles were similar through the 3 administration routes. The distribution process was rapid after IV administration [t(1/2(d)), 0.10 ± 0.11 h vs 1.36 ± 0.65 and 1.25 ± 1.01 h]. The AUMC(0-∞) is markedly larger, and mean residence time (MRT) is greatly longer after IP administration than that in IV, or IM routes (AUMC(0-∞): 55.33 ± 20.34 vs 16.84 ± 4.85 and 36.17 ± 13.24 mg·h(2)/L; MRT: 0.93 ± 0.10 h vs 0.37 ± 0.07 h and 0.65 ± 0.05 h). The C(max) after IM injection was significantly higher than that in IP injection (73.51 ± 12.46 vs 49.09 ± 7.06 mg/L). The AUC(0-∞) in male rats were significantly higher than that in female rats after IM administration (66.38 ± 16.5 vs 44.23 ± 6.37 mg·h/L). There was no significantly sex-related difference in other pharmacokinetic parameters of cefuroxime lysine between male and female rats. Cefuroxime lysine shows quick absorption after IV injection, a long retension after IP injection, and a high C(max) after IM injection. After IM administration the AUC(0-∞) in male rats was significantly larger than that in female rats.

Contrast-enhanced ultrasound for quantitative assessment of portal pressure in canine liver fibrosis.

PubMed

Zhai, Lin; Qiu, Lan-Yan; Zu, Yuan; Yan, Yan; Ren, Xiao-Zhuan; Zhao, Jun-Feng; Liu, Yu-Jiang; Liu, Ji-Bin; Qian, Lin-Xue

2015-04-21

To explore the feasibility of non-invasive quantitative estimation of portal venous pressure by contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) in a canine model. Liver fibrosis was established in adult canines (Beagles; n = 14) by subcutaneous injection of carbon tetrachloride (CCl4). CEUS parameters, including the area under the time-intensity curve and intensity at portal/arterial phases (Qp/Qa and Ip/Ia, respectively), were used to quantitatively assess the blood flow ratio of the portal vein/hepatic artery at multiple time points. The free portal venous pressures (FPP) were measured by a multi-channel baroreceptor using a percutaneous approach at baseline and 8, 16, and 24 wk after CCl4 injections in each canine. Liver biopsies were obtained at the end of 8, 16, and 24 wk from each animal, and the stage of the fibrosis was assessed according to the Metavir scoring system. A Pearson correlation test was performed to compare the FPP with Qp/Qa and Ip/Ia. Pathologic examination of 42 biopsies from the 14 canines at weeks 8, 16, and 24 revealed that liver fibrosis was induced by CCl4 and represented various stages of liver fibrosis, including F0 (n = 3), F1 (n = 12), F2 (n = 14), F3 (n = 11), and F4 (n = 2). There were significant differences in the measurements of Qp/Qa (19.85 ± 3.30 vs 10.43 ± 1.21, 9.63 ± 1.03, and 8.77 ± 0.96) and Ip/Ia (1.77 ± 0.37 vs 1.03 ± 0.12, 0.83 ± 0.10, and 0.69 ± 0.13) between control and canine fibrosis at 8, 16, and 24 wk, respectively (all P < 0.001). There were statistically significant negative correlations between FPP and Qp/Qa (r = -0.707, P < 0.001), and between FPP and Ip/Ia (r = -0.759, P < 0.001) in the canine fibrosis model. Prediction of elevated FPP based on Qp/Qa and Ip/Ia was highly sensitive, as assessed by the area under the receiver operating curve (0.866 and 0.895, respectively). CEUS is a potential method to accurately, but non-invasively, estimate portal venous pressure through measurement of Qp/Qa and Ip/Ia parameters.

Contrast-enhanced ultrasound for quantitative assessment of portal pressure in canine liver fibrosis

PubMed Central

Zhai, Lin; Qiu, Lan-Yan; Zu, Yuan; Yan, Yan; Ren, Xiao-Zhuan; Zhao, Jun-Feng; Liu, Yu-Jiang; Liu, Ji-Bin; Qian, Lin-Xue

2015-01-01

AIM: To explore the feasibility of non-invasive quantitative estimation of portal venous pressure by contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) in a canine model. METHODS: Liver fibrosis was established in adult canines (Beagles; n = 14) by subcutaneous injection of carbon tetrachloride (CCl4). CEUS parameters, including the area under the time-intensity curve and intensity at portal/arterial phases (Qp/Qa and Ip/Ia, respectively), were used to quantitatively assess the blood flow ratio of the portal vein/hepatic artery at multiple time points. The free portal venous pressures (FPP) were measured by a multi-channel baroreceptor using a percutaneous approach at baseline and 8, 16, and 24 wk after CCl4 injections in each canine. Liver biopsies were obtained at the end of 8, 16, and 24 wk from each animal, and the stage of the fibrosis was assessed according to the Metavir scoring system. A Pearson correlation test was performed to compare the FPP with Qp/Qa and Ip/Ia. RESULTS: Pathologic examination of 42 biopsies from the 14 canines at weeks 8, 16, and 24 revealed that liver fibrosis was induced by CCl4 and represented various stages of liver fibrosis, including F0 (n = 3), F1 (n = 12), F2 (n = 14), F3 (n = 11), and F4 (n = 2). There were significant differences in the measurements of Qp/Qa (19.85 ± 3.30 vs 10.43 ± 1.21, 9.63 ± 1.03, and 8.77 ± 0.96) and Ip/Ia (1.77 ± 0.37 vs 1.03 ± 0.12, 0.83 ± 0.10, and 0.69 ± 0.13) between control and canine fibrosis at 8, 16, and 24 wk, respectively (all P < 0.001). There were statistically significant negative correlations between FPP and Qp/Qa (r = -0.707, P < 0.001), and between FPP and Ip/Ia (r = -0.759, P < 0.001) in the canine fibrosis model. Prediction of elevated FPP based on Qp/Qa and Ip/Ia was highly sensitive, as assessed by the area under the receiver operating curve (0.866 and 0.895, respectively). CONCLUSION: CEUS is a potential method to accurately, but non-invasively, estimate portal venous pressure through measurement of Qp/Qa and Ip/Ia parameters. PMID:25914459

Identification of low-frequency TRAF3IP2 coding variants in psoriatic arthritis patients and functional characterization

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Introduction In recent genome-wide association studies for psoriatic arthritis (PsA) and psoriasis vulgaris, common coding variants in the TRAF3IP2 gene were identified to contribute to susceptibility to both disease entities. The risk allele of p.Asp10Asn (rs33980500) proved to be most significantly associated and to encode a mutant protein with an almost completely disrupted binding property to TRAF6, supporting its impact as a main disease-causing variant and modulator of IL-17 signaling. Methods To identify further variants, exons 2-4 encoding both known TNF-receptor-associated factor (TRAF) binding domains were sequenced in 871 PsA patients. Seven missense variants and one three-base-pair insertion were identified in 0.06% to 1.02% of alleles. Five of these variants were also present in 931 control individuals at comparable frequency. Constructs containing full-length wild-type or mutant TRAF3IP2 were generated and used to analyze functionally all variants for TRAF6-binding in a mammalian two-hybrid assay. Results None of the newly found alleles, though, encoded proteins with different binding properties to TRAF6, or to the cytoplasmic tail of the IL-17-receptor α-chain, suggesting that they do not contribute to susceptibility. Conclusions Thus, the TRAF3IP2-variant p.Asp10Asn is the only susceptibility allele with functional impact on TRAF6 binding, at least in the German population. PMID:22513239

The role of the human papillomavirus in the pathogenesis of Schneiderian inverted papillomas: an analytic overview of the evidence.

PubMed

Lawson, William; Schlecht, Nicolas F; Brandwein-Gensler, Margaret

2008-06-01

Evidence of an etiological role for human papillomavirus (HPV) in Schneiderian inverted papillomas IP arose in the late 1980's; yet almost three decades later, the association between HPV and IP has yet to be universally accepted. This is probably due to the disparate HPV detection rates in IP reported in the literature. We analyzed the weight of published data in order to address the following questions: why do the HPV detection rates in IP vary so greatly? What is the relationship between low-risk (LR) and high-risk (HR) HPV types and HPV detection rates in IP? Is there a relationship between the presence and type of HPV in IP and recurrence and malignant progression? A search using the Pubmed search engine was performed to identify studies published in English from 01/87 through 12/06 using the MeSH terms ''HPV'' and ''Inverted", "Exophytic", "Oncocytic Schneiderian" or "Fungiform papilloma''. Data was abstracted from publications including histology, HPV target, HPV type, method of detection, etc. HPV results were stratified by histology and other variables. Tests for heterogeneity (between-study variability) were conducted, and weighted prevalence (WP) estimates and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated using a random-effects inverse-variance model stratified on study. The association between HPV IP recurrence was estimated by random-effects inverse-variance weighted odds ratio (OR). Weighted estimates revealed similar detection rates across detection methods, 26.8% (95%CI 16.4-37.2%) by ISH, 25.2% (95%CI 14.7-35.6%) by consensus PCR, and 23.6% (95%CI 12.2-35.0%) by type-specific PCR. A preponderance of HPV 6/11 is found in IP as compared to HPV 16/18; the overall unadjusted ratio of LR to high-risk HR HPV types is 2.8:1 The HPV detection rates significantly increase (Wald t-test P < 0.02) in IPs with high-grade dysplasia (WP 55.8%, 95%CI 30.5-81.0%) and carcinoma (WP 55.1%, 95%CI 37.0-73.2%) as compared to IPs with no dysplasia or mild dysplasia (WP 22.3%, 95%CI 15.9-28.6%). Furthermore, the preponderance of LR HPV in benign IP (ratio LR/HR = 4.8:1) shifts in dysplastic and malignant IP. The LR/HR ratio is 1.1:1 for IPs with high-grade dysplasias, this ratio is inverted to favor HR HPV (1:2.4) for malignant IP. Recurrences developed in 44 of 236 patients; HPV was detected in 27 of 44 IPs (WP 57.9%, 95%CI 31.6-84.2%) that developed recurrences and in 24 of 192 IPs (WP 9.7%, 95%CI 4.4-15.0%) that did not develop recurrence. The presence of HPV was significantly associated with the likelihood of developing recurrence (weighted OR of 10.2, 95%CI 3.2-32.8). We hypothesize that LR HPV may induce IP formation, and then are lost as infected cells are shed, as a "hit and run" phenomenon. HPV detection rates increase in dysplastic IP and SCC-ex-IP with increasing ratio of HR to LR HPV types, compared to nondysplastic IP. We believe that one explanation for the variation in HPV detection rates between different studies may be the actual histologic composition of the cohort. That is, if one series contains a higher frequency of dysplastic and malignant IP, it may have a higher detection rate than another series which contains only nondysplastic IP. We hypothesize that the higher rates of HPV detection in dysplastic and malignant IP may be related to HPV integration. The implication of this is that HPV sub-type testing may identify patients at risk for recurrence, or progression to dysplasia and malignancy, and thus may impact surveillance protocols.

Evaluation of wind-induced internal pressure in low-rise buildings: A multi scale experimental and numerical approach

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tecle, Amanuel Sebhatu

Hurricane is one of the most destructive and costly natural hazard to the built environment and its impact on low-rise buildings, particularity, is beyond acceptable. The major objective of this research was to perform a parametric evaluation of internal pressure (IP) for wind-resistant design of low-rise buildings and wind-driven natural ventilation applications. For this purpose, a multi-scale experimental, i.e. full-scale at Wall of Wind (WoW) and small-scale at Boundary Layer Wind Tunnel (BLWT), and a Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) approach was adopted. This provided new capability to assess wind pressures realistically on internal volumes ranging from small spaces formed between roof tiles and its deck to attic to room partitions. Effects of sudden breaching, existing dominant openings on building envelopes as well as compartmentalization of building interior on the IP were systematically investigated. Results of this research indicated: (i) for sudden breaching of dominant openings, the transient overshooting response was lower than the subsequent steady state peak IP and internal volume correction for low-wind-speed testing facilities was necessary. For example a building without volume correction experienced a response four times faster and exhibited 30--40% lower mean and peak IP; (ii) for existing openings, vent openings uniformly distributed along the roof alleviated, whereas one sided openings aggravated the IP; (iii) larger dominant openings exhibited a higher IP on the building envelope, and an off-center opening on the wall exhibited (30--40%) higher IP than center located openings; (iv) compartmentalization amplified the intensity of IP and; (v) significant underneath pressure was measured for field tiles, warranting its consideration during net pressure evaluations. The study aimed at wind driven natural ventilation indicated: (i) the IP due to cross ventilation was 1.5 to 2.5 times higher for Ainlet/Aoutlet>1 compared to cases where Ainlet/Aoutlet<1, this in effect reduced the mixing of air inside the building and hence the ventilation effectiveness; (ii) the presence of multi-room partitioning increased the pressure differential and consequently the air exchange rate. Overall good agreement was found between the observed large-scale, small-scale and CFD based IP responses. Comparisons with ASCE 7-10 consistently demonstrated that the code underestimated peak positive and suction IP.

Is this the right normalization? A diagnostic tool for ChIP-seq normalization.

PubMed

Angelini, Claudia; Heller, Ruth; Volkinshtein, Rita; Yekutieli, Daniel

2015-05-09

Chip-seq experiments are becoming a standard approach for genome-wide profiling protein-DNA interactions, such as detecting transcription factor binding sites, histone modification marks and RNA Polymerase II occupancy. However, when comparing a ChIP sample versus a control sample, such as Input DNA, normalization procedures have to be applied in order to remove experimental source of biases. Despite the substantial impact that the choice of the normalization method can have on the results of a ChIP-seq data analysis, their assessment is not fully explored in the literature. In particular, there are no diagnostic tools that show whether the applied normalization is indeed appropriate for the data being analyzed. In this work we propose a novel diagnostic tool to examine the appropriateness of the estimated normalization procedure. By plotting the empirical densities of log relative risks in bins of equal read count, along with the estimated normalization constant, after logarithmic transformation, the researcher is able to assess the appropriateness of the estimated normalization constant. We use the diagnostic plot to evaluate the appropriateness of the estimates obtained by CisGenome, NCIS and CCAT on several real data examples. Moreover, we show the impact that the choice of the normalization constant can have on standard tools for peak calling such as MACS or SICER. Finally, we propose a novel procedure for controlling the FDR using sample swapping. This procedure makes use of the estimated normalization constant in order to gain power over the naive choice of constant (used in MACS and SICER), which is the ratio of the total number of reads in the ChIP and Input samples. Linear normalization approaches aim to estimate a scale factor, r, to adjust for different sequencing depths when comparing ChIP versus Input samples. The estimated scaling factor can easily be incorporated in many peak caller algorithms to improve the accuracy of the peak identification. The diagnostic plot proposed in this paper can be used to assess how adequate ChIP/Input normalization constants are, and thus it allows the user to choose the most adequate estimate for the analysis.

Comparison of Gated Audiovisual Speech Identification in Elderly Hearing Aid Users and Elderly Normal-Hearing Individuals

PubMed Central

Lidestam, Björn; Rönnberg, Jerker

2016-01-01

The present study compared elderly hearing aid (EHA) users (n = 20) with elderly normal-hearing (ENH) listeners (n = 20) in terms of isolation points (IPs, the shortest time required for correct identification of a speech stimulus) and accuracy of audiovisual gated speech stimuli (consonants, words, and final words in highly and less predictable sentences) presented in silence. In addition, we compared the IPs of audiovisual speech stimuli from the present study with auditory ones extracted from a previous study, to determine the impact of the addition of visual cues. Both participant groups achieved ceiling levels in terms of accuracy in the audiovisual identification of gated speech stimuli; however, the EHA group needed longer IPs for the audiovisual identification of consonants and words. The benefit of adding visual cues to auditory speech stimuli was more evident in the EHA group, as audiovisual presentation significantly shortened the IPs for consonants, words, and final words in less predictable sentences; in the ENH group, audiovisual presentation only shortened the IPs for consonants and words. In conclusion, although the audiovisual benefit was greater for EHA group, this group had inferior performance compared with the ENH group in terms of IPs when supportive semantic context was lacking. Consequently, EHA users needed the initial part of the audiovisual speech signal to be longer than did their counterparts with normal hearing to reach the same level of accuracy in the absence of a semantic context. PMID:27317667

A new ionospheric storm scale based on TEC and foF2 statistics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nishioka, Michi; Tsugawa, Takuya; Jin, Hidekatsu; Ishii, Mamoru

2017-01-01

In this paper, we propose the I-scale, a new ionospheric storm scale for general users in various regions in the world. With the I-scale, ionospheric storms can be classified at any season, local time, and location. Since the ionospheric condition largely depends on many factors such as solar irradiance, energy input from the magnetosphere, and lower atmospheric activity, it had been difficult to scale ionospheric storms, which are mainly caused by solar and geomagnetic activities. In this study, statistical analysis was carried out for total electron content (TEC) and F2 layer critical frequency (foF2) in Japan for 18 years from 1997 to 2014. Seasonal, local time, and latitudinal dependences of TEC and foF2 variabilities are excluded by normalizing each percentage variation using their statistical standard deviations. The I-scale is defined by setting thresholds to the normalized numbers to seven categories: I0, IP1, IP2, IP3, IN1, IN2, and IN3. I0 represents a quiet state, and IP1 (IN1), IP2 (IN2), and IP3 (IN3) represent moderate, strong, and severe positive (negative) storms, respectively. The proposed I-scale can be used for other locations, such as polar and equatorial regions. It is considered that the proposed I-scale can be a standardized scale to help the users to assess the impact of space weather on their systems.

Voice over internet protocol with prepaid calling card solutions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gunadi, Tri

2001-07-01

The VoIP technology is growing up rapidly, it has big network impact on PT Telkom Indonesia, the bigger telecommunication operator in Indonesia. Telkom has adopted VoIP and one other technology, Intelligent Network (IN). We develop those technologies together in one service product, called Internet Prepaid Calling Card (IPCC). IPCC is becoming new breakthrough for the Indonesia telecommunication services especially on VoIP and Prepaid Calling Card solutions. Network architecture of Indonesia telecommunication consists of three layer, Local, Tandem and Trunck Exchange layer. Network development researches for IPCC architecture are focus on network overlay hierarchy, Internet and PSTN. With this design hierarchy the goal of Interworking PSTN, VoIP and IN calling card, become reality. Overlay design for IPCC is not on Trunck Exchange, this is the new architecture, these overlay on Tandem and Local Exchange, to make the faster call processing. The nodes added: Gateway (GW) and Card Management Center (CMC) The GW do interfacing between PSTN and Internet Network used ISDN-PRA and Ethernet. The other functions are making bridge on circuit (PSTN) with packet (VoIP) based and real time billing process. The CMC used for data storage, pin validation, report activation, tariff system, directory number and all the administration transaction. With two nodes added the IPCC service offered to the market.

Performance Evaluation of IEEE 802.11ah Networks With High-Throughput Bidirectional Traffic.

PubMed

Šljivo, Amina; Kerkhove, Dwight; Tian, Le; Famaey, Jeroen; Munteanu, Adrian; Moerman, Ingrid; Hoebeke, Jeroen; De Poorter, Eli

2018-01-23

So far, existing sub-GHz wireless communication technologies focused on low-bandwidth, long-range communication with large numbers of constrained devices. Although these characteristics are fine for many Internet of Things (IoT) applications, more demanding application requirements could not be met and legacy Internet technologies such as Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) could not be used. This has changed with the advent of the new IEEE 802.11ah Wi-Fi standard, which is much more suitable for reliable bidirectional communication and high-throughput applications over a wide area (up to 1 km). The standard offers great possibilities for network performance optimization through a number of physical- and link-layer configurable features. However, given that the optimal configuration parameters depend on traffic patterns, the standard does not dictate how to determine them. Such a large number of configuration options can lead to sub-optimal or even incorrect configurations. Therefore, we investigated how two key mechanisms, Restricted Access Window (RAW) grouping and Traffic Indication Map (TIM) segmentation, influence scalability, throughput, latency and energy efficiency in the presence of bidirectional TCP/IP traffic. We considered both high-throughput video streaming traffic and large-scale reliable sensing traffic and investigated TCP behavior in both scenarios when the link layer introduces long delays. This article presents the relations between attainable throughput per station and attainable number of stations, as well as the influence of RAW, TIM and TCP parameters on both. We found that up to 20 continuously streaming IP-cameras can be reliably connected via IEEE 802.11ah with a maximum average data rate of 160 kbps, whereas 10 IP-cameras can achieve average data rates of up to 255 kbps over 200 m. Up to 6960 stations transmitting every 60 s can be connected over 1 km with no lost packets. The presented results enable the fine tuning of RAW and TIM parameters for throughput-demanding reliable applications (i.e., video streaming, firmware updates) on one hand, and very dense low-throughput reliable networks with bidirectional traffic on the other hand.

Comparison of the effects of intensive insulin treatment modalities on cardiovascular biomarkers in type 1 diabetes mellitus.

PubMed

Cetinkalp, Sevki; Felekoglu, Canan; Karadeniz, Muammer; Boyacıoglu, Hayal; Delen, Yasemin; Yildirim, Eser; Yilmaz, Candeger

2015-01-01

To evaluate effects of intensive insulin treatment modalities on cardiovascular biomarkers in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). A total of 25 patients with T1DM receiving intensive insulin therapy either in the form of continuous insulin pump (IP group; n=13) or as multiple daily injections (MDI group; n=12) and 13 controls (control group, n=13) were included. Data on demographics, anthropometrics, diabetes history, and laboratory findings including glycemic and lipid parameters, and cardiovascular biomarkers [C-reactive protein (mg/dL), homocysteine (μmol/L), fibrinogen (mg/dL), oxidized LDL (ng/dL), PAI-1 (ng/mL), MCP-1 (pg/mL) and VEGF (pg/mL)] were recorded in each group. Correlation of cardiovascular biomarkers to other parameters was also evaluated in T1DM patients. Apart from significantly higher mean (SD) values for HbA1c [6.1 (0.3) vs. 5.6 (0.5)% (43 (3) vs. 38 (5) mmol/mol), p<0.05)] and HDL-cholesterol [71.5 (13.6) vs. 58.2 (10.8), p<0.01) in the IP than in the MDI group, no significance difference was noted between insulin treatment modalities as well as between patient and control groups in terms of demographic, anthropometric and laboratory parameters. Negative correlation of MCP-1 to treatment duration (r=-0.615, p=0.025), and HDL-c to CRP (r=-0.685, p=0.010) and VEGF (r=-0.678, p=0.011) was noted in IP group, whereas positive correlation of PAI-1 to diabetes age (r=0.805, p=0.002) and treatment duration was noted in MDI group. Our findings in a cohort of T1DM patients with optimal glycemic control revealed that intensive insulin therapy was not associated with an increase in atherosclerotic markers in T1DM, regardless of whether continuous IP infusion or MDIs was administered. Copyright © 2015 Diabetes India. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Performance Evaluation of IEEE 802.11ah Networks With High-Throughput Bidirectional Traffic

PubMed Central

Kerkhove, Dwight; Tian, Le; Munteanu, Adrian; De Poorter, Eli

2018-01-01

So far, existing sub-GHz wireless communication technologies focused on low-bandwidth, long-range communication with large numbers of constrained devices. Although these characteristics are fine for many Internet of Things (IoT) applications, more demanding application requirements could not be met and legacy Internet technologies such as Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) could not be used. This has changed with the advent of the new IEEE 802.11ah Wi-Fi standard, which is much more suitable for reliable bidirectional communication and high-throughput applications over a wide area (up to 1 km). The standard offers great possibilities for network performance optimization through a number of physical- and link-layer configurable features. However, given that the optimal configuration parameters depend on traffic patterns, the standard does not dictate how to determine them. Such a large number of configuration options can lead to sub-optimal or even incorrect configurations. Therefore, we investigated how two key mechanisms, Restricted Access Window (RAW) grouping and Traffic Indication Map (TIM) segmentation, influence scalability, throughput, latency and energy efficiency in the presence of bidirectional TCP/IP traffic. We considered both high-throughput video streaming traffic and large-scale reliable sensing traffic and investigated TCP behavior in both scenarios when the link layer introduces long delays. This article presents the relations between attainable throughput per station and attainable number of stations, as well as the influence of RAW, TIM and TCP parameters on both. We found that up to 20 continuously streaming IP-cameras can be reliably connected via IEEE 802.11ah with a maximum average data rate of 160 kbps, whereas 10 IP-cameras can achieve average data rates of up to 255 kbps over 200 m. Up to 6960 stations transmitting every 60 s can be connected over 1 km with no lost packets. The presented results enable the fine tuning of RAW and TIM parameters for throughput-demanding reliable applications (i.e., video streaming, firmware updates) on one hand, and very dense low-throughput reliable networks with bidirectional traffic on the other hand. PMID:29360798

Interplanetary scintillation observations with the Cocoa Cross radio telescope

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cronyn, W. M.; Shawhan, S. D.; Erskine, F. T.; Huneke, A. H.; Mitchell, D. G.

1976-01-01

Physical and electrical parameters for the 34.3-MHz Cocoa Cross radio telescope are given. The telescope is dedicated to the determination of solar-wind characteristics in and out of the ecliptic plane through measurement of electron-density irregularity structure as determined from IPS (interplanetary scintillation) of natural radio sources. The collecting area (72,000 sq m), angular resolution (0.4 deg EW by 0.6 deg NS), and spatial extent (1.3 km EW by 0.8 km NS) make the telescope well suited for measurements of IPS index and frequency scale for hundreds of weak radio sources without serious confusion effects.

Modeling Alzheimer’s disease with human induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells

PubMed Central

Mungenast, Alison E.; Siegert, Sandra; Tsai, Li-Huei

2018-01-01

In the last decade, induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells have revolutionized the utility of human in vitro models of neurological disease. The iPS-derived and differentiated cells allow researchers to study the impact of a distinct cell type in health and disease as well as performing therapeutic drug screens on a human genetic background. In particular, clinical trials for Alzheimer’s disease (AD) have been often failing. Two of the potential reasons are first, the species gap involved in proceeding from initial discoveries in rodent models to human studies, and second, an unsatisfying patient stratification, meaning subgrouping patients based on the disease severity due to the lack of phenotypic and genetic markers. iPS cells overcome this obstacles and will improve our understanding of disease subtypes in AD. They allow researchers conducting in depth characterization of neural cells from both familial and sporadic AD patients as well as preclinical screens on human cells. In this review, we briefly outline the status quo of iPS cell research in neurological diseases along with the general advantages and pitfalls of these models. We summarize how genome-editing techniques such as CRISPR/Cas will allow researchers to reduce the problem of genomic variability inherent to human studies, followed by recent iPS cell studies relevant to AD. We then focus on current techniques for the differentiation of iPS cells into neural cell types that are relevant to AD research. Finally, we discuss how the generation of three-dimensional cell culture systems will be important for understanding AD phenotypes in a complex cellular milieu, and how both two- and three-dimensional iPS cell models can provide platforms for drug discovery and translational studies into the treatment of AD. PMID:26657644

Modeling Alzheimer's disease with human induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells.

PubMed

Mungenast, Alison E; Siegert, Sandra; Tsai, Li-Huei

2016-06-01

In the last decade, induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells have revolutionized the utility of human in vitro models of neurological disease. The iPS-derived and differentiated cells allow researchers to study the impact of a distinct cell type in health and disease as well as performing therapeutic drug screens on a human genetic background. In particular, clinical trials for Alzheimer's disease (AD) have been failing. Two of the potential reasons are first, the species gap involved in proceeding from initial discoveries in rodent models to human studies, and second, an unsatisfying patient stratification, meaning subgrouping patients based on the disease severity due to the lack of phenotypic and genetic markers. iPS cells overcome this obstacles and will improve our understanding of disease subtypes in AD. They allow researchers conducting in depth characterization of neural cells from both familial and sporadic AD patients as well as preclinical screens on human cells. In this review, we briefly outline the status quo of iPS cell research in neurological diseases along with the general advantages and pitfalls of these models. We summarize how genome-editing techniques such as CRISPR/Cas9 will allow researchers to reduce the problem of genomic variability inherent to human studies, followed by recent iPS cell studies relevant to AD. We then focus on current techniques for the differentiation of iPS cells into neural cell types that are relevant to AD research. Finally, we discuss how the generation of three-dimensional cell culture systems will be important for understanding AD phenotypes in a complex cellular milieu, and how both two- and three-dimensional iPS cell models can provide platforms for drug discovery and translational studies into the treatment of AD. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Hydrothermal system of the Papandayan Volcano from temperature, self-potential (SP) and geochemical measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Byrdina, Svetlana; Revil, André; Gunawan, Hendra; Saing, Ugan B.; Grandis, Hendra

2017-07-01

Papandayan volcano in West Java, Indonesia, is characterized by intense hydrothermal activities manifested by numerous fumaroles at three craters or kawah, i.e. Mas, Manuk and Baru. The latter was created after November 2002 phreatic eruption. Since 2011, numerous volcano-tectonic B events are encountered and the volcano was set on alert status on several occasions. The purpose of the present study is to delineate the structure of the summital hydrothermal system from Self-Potential (SP), soil temperature and gas concentrations in the soil (CO2, SO2 and H2S) data. This combination of geophysical and geochemical methods allows identification of the weak permeable zones serving as preferential pathways for hydrothermal circulation and potential candidates to future landslides or flank collapses. This study is an on-going collaborative research project and we plan to conduct electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) and also Induced-Polarization (IP) surveys. Additional data would allow the 3D imaging of the studied area. The IP parameters will be used to characterise and to quantify the degree of alteration of the volcanic rocks as has been shown very recently in the laboratory studies. There are also rocks and soil samples that will undergo laboratory analyses at ISTerre for IP and complex resistivity parameters at the sample scale that will help to interpret the survey results.

A reassessment of the in vitro RBC haemolysis assay with defibrinated sheep blood for the determination of the ocular irritation potential of cosmetic products: comparison with the in vivo Draize rabbit test.

PubMed

Alves, Eloísa Nunes; Presgrave, Rosaura de Farias; Presgrave, Octávio Augusto França; Sabagh, Fernanda Peres; de Freitas, João Carlos Borges Rolim; Corrado, Alexandre P

2008-07-01

We examined the correlation between results obtained from the in vivo Draize test for ocular irritation and in vitro results obtained from the sheep red blood cell (RBC) haemolytic assay, which assesses haemolysis and protein denaturation in erythrocytes, induced by cosmetic products. We sought to validate the haemolytic assay as a preliminary test for identifying highly-irritative products, and also to evaluate the in vitro test as alternative assay for replacement of the in vivo test. In vitro and in vivo analyses were carried out on 19 cosmetic products, in order to correlate the lesions in the ocular structures with three in vitro parameters: (i) the extent of haemolysis (H50); (ii) the protein denaturation index (DI); and (iii) the H50/DI ratio, which reflects the irritation potential (IP). There was significant correlation between maximum average scores (MAS) and the parameters determined in vitro (r = 0.752-0.764). These results indicate that the RBC assay is a useful and rapid test for use as a screening method to assess the IP of cosmetic products, and for predicting the IP value with a high level of concordance (94.7%). The assay showed high sensitivity and specificity rates of 91.6% and 100%, respectively.

Quantifying intermolecular interactions of ionic liquids using cohesive energy densities.

PubMed

Lovelock, Kevin R J

2017-12-01

For ionic liquids (ILs), both the large number of possible cation + anion combinations and their ionic nature provide a unique challenge for understanding intermolecular interactions. Cohesive energy density, ced , is used to quantify the strength of intermolecular interactions for molecular liquids, and is determined using the enthalpy of vaporization. A critical analysis of the experimental challenges and data to obtain ced for ILs is provided. For ILs there are two methods to judge the strength of intermolecular interactions, due to the presence of multiple constituents in the vapour phase of ILs. Firstly, ced IP , where the ionic vapour constituent is neutral ion pairs, the major constituent of the IL vapour. Secondly, ced C+A , where the ionic vapour constituents are isolated ions. A ced IP dataset is presented for 64 ILs. For the first time an experimental ced C+A , a measure of the strength of the total intermolecular interaction for an IL, is presented. ced C+A is significantly larger for ILs than ced for most molecular liquids, reflecting the need to break all of the relatively strong electrostatic interactions present in ILs. However, the van der Waals interactions contribute significantly to IL volatility due to the very strong electrostatic interaction in the neutral ion pair ionic vapour. An excellent linear correlation is found between ced IP and the inverse of the molecular volume. A good linear correlation is found between IL ced IP and IL Gordon parameter (which are dependent primarily on surface tension). ced values obtained through indirect methods gave similar magnitude values to ced IP . These findings show that ced IP is very important for understanding IL intermolecular interactions, in spite of ced IP not being a measure of the total intermolecular interactions of an IL. In the outlook section, remaining challenges for understanding IL intermolecular interactions are outlined.

Quantifying intermolecular interactions of ionic liquids using cohesive energy densities

PubMed Central

2017-01-01

For ionic liquids (ILs), both the large number of possible cation + anion combinations and their ionic nature provide a unique challenge for understanding intermolecular interactions. Cohesive energy density, ced, is used to quantify the strength of intermolecular interactions for molecular liquids, and is determined using the enthalpy of vaporization. A critical analysis of the experimental challenges and data to obtain ced for ILs is provided. For ILs there are two methods to judge the strength of intermolecular interactions, due to the presence of multiple constituents in the vapour phase of ILs. Firstly, cedIP, where the ionic vapour constituent is neutral ion pairs, the major constituent of the IL vapour. Secondly, cedC+A, where the ionic vapour constituents are isolated ions. A cedIP dataset is presented for 64 ILs. For the first time an experimental cedC+A, a measure of the strength of the total intermolecular interaction for an IL, is presented. cedC+A is significantly larger for ILs than ced for most molecular liquids, reflecting the need to break all of the relatively strong electrostatic interactions present in ILs. However, the van der Waals interactions contribute significantly to IL volatility due to the very strong electrostatic interaction in the neutral ion pair ionic vapour. An excellent linear correlation is found between cedIP and the inverse of the molecular volume. A good linear correlation is found between IL cedIP and IL Gordon parameter (which are dependent primarily on surface tension). ced values obtained through indirect methods gave similar magnitude values to cedIP. These findings show that cedIP is very important for understanding IL intermolecular interactions, in spite of cedIP not being a measure of the total intermolecular interactions of an IL. In the outlook section, remaining challenges for understanding IL intermolecular interactions are outlined. PMID:29308254

The Worldwide Interplanetary Scintillation (IPS) Stations (WIPSS) Network in support of Space-Weather Science and Forecasting

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bisi, M. M.; Gonzalez-Esparza, A.; Jackson, B. V.; Aguilar-Rodriguez, E.; Tokumaru, M.; Chashei, I. V.; Tyul'bashev, S. A.; Manoharan, P. K.; Fallows, R. A.; Chang, O.; Mejia-Ambriz, J. C.; Yu, H. S.; Fujiki, K.; Shishov, V.

2016-12-01

The phenomenon of space weather - analogous to terrestrial weather which describes the changing low-altitude atmospheric conditions on Earth - is essentially a description of the changes in the plasma environment at and near the Earth. Some key parameters for space-weather purposes driving space weather at the Earth include velocity, density, magnetic field, high-energy particles, and radiation coming into and within the near-Earth space environment. Interplanetary scintillation (IPS) can be used to provide a global measure of velocity and density as well as indications of changes in the plasma and magnetic-field rotations along each observational line of sight. If the observations are formally inverted into a three-dimensional (3-D) tomographic reconstruction (such as using the University of California, San Diego - UCSD - kinematic model and reconstruction technique), then source-surface magnetic fields can also be propagated out to the Earth (and beyond) as well as in-situ data also being incorporated into the reconstruction. Currently, this has been done using IPS data only from the Institute for Space-Earth Environmental (ISEE) and has been scientifically since the 1990s, and in a forecast mode since around 2000. There is now a defined IPS Common Data Format (IPSCDFv1.0) which is being implemented by the majority of the IPS community (this also feeds into the tomography). The Worldwide IPS Stations (WIPSS) Network aims to bring together, using IPSCDFv1.0, the worldwide real-time capable IPS observatories with well-developed and tested analyses techniques being unified across all single-site systems (such as MEXART, Pushchino, and Ooty) and cross-calibrated to the multi-site ISEE system (as well as learning from the scientific-based systems such as EISCAT, LOFAR, and the MWA), into the UCSD 3-D tomography to improve the accuracy, spatial and temporal data coverage, and both the spatial and temporal resolution for improved space-weather science and forecast capabilities.

The Worldwide Interplanetary Scintillation (IPS) Stations (WIPSS) Network in support of Space-Weather Science and Forecasting

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bisi, Mario Mark; Americo Gonzalez-Esparza, J.; Jackson, Bernard; Aguilar-Rodriguez, Ernesto; Tokumaru, Munetoshi; Chashei, Igor; Tyul'bashev, Sergey; Manoharan, Periasamy; Fallows, Richard; Chang, Oyuki; Yu, Hsiu-Shan; Fujiki, Ken'ichi; Shishov, Vladimir; Barnes, David

2017-04-01

The phenomenon of space weather - analogous to terrestrial weather which describes the changing low-altitude atmospheric conditions on Earth - is essentially a description of the changes in the plasma environment at and near the Earth. Some key parameters for space-weather purposes driving space weather at the Earth include velocity, density, magnetic field, high-energy particles, and radiation coming into and within the near-Earth space environment. Interplanetary scintillation (IPS) can be used to provide a global measure of velocity and density as well as indications of changes in the plasma and magnetic-field rotations along each observational line of sight. If the observations are formally inverted into a three-dimensional (3-D) tomographic reconstruction (such as using the University of California, San Diego - UCSD - kinematic model and reconstruction technique), then source-surface magnetic fields can also be propagated out to the Earth (and beyond) as well as in-situ data also being incorporated into the reconstruction. Currently, this has been done using IPS data only from the Institute for Space-Earth Environmental (ISEE) and has been scientifically since the 1990s, and in a forecast mode since around 2000. There is now a defined (and updated) IPS Common Data Format (IPSCDFv1.1) which is being implemented by the majority of the IPS community (this also feeds into the UCSD tomography). The Worldwide IPS Stations (WIPSS) Network aims to bring together, using IPSCDFv1.1, the worldwide real-time capable IPS observatories with well-developed and tested analyses techniques being unified across all single-site systems (such as MEXART, Pushchino, and Ooty) and cross-calibrated to the multi-site ISEE system (as well as learning from the scientific-based systems such as EISCAT, LOFAR, and the MWA), into the UCSD 3-D tomography to improve the accuracy, spatial and temporal data coverage, and both the spatial and temporal resolution for improved space-weather science and forecast capabilities.

Effect of Helichrysum plicatum DC. subsp. plicatum ethanol extract on gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity in rats.

PubMed

Apaydin Yildirim, Betul; Kordali, Saban; Terim Kapakin, Kubra Asena; Yildirim, Fatih; Aktas Senocak, Esra; Altun, Serdar

2017-06-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate the possible therapeutic or protective effects of Helichrysum plicatum DC. subsp. plicatum ethanol extract (HPE) against gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity. Thirty-six Sprague Dawley male rats weighing between 200 and 250 g were used as live material. They were formed into six groups containing 6 rats each and were allowed to adapt to laboratory conditions for 7 d. Group I: control, 5% DMSO intraperitoneal (i.p.); Group II: HPE 100 mg/(kg·d) i.p.; Group III: HPE 200 mg/(kg·d) i.p.; Group IV: gentamicin as 80 mg/(kg·d) i.p.; Group V: gentamicin as 80 mg/(kg·d) i.p.+HPE 100 mg/(kg·d) i.p.; and Group VI: gentamicin as 80 mg/(kg·d) i.p.+HPE 200 mg/(kg·d) i.p. for 8 d. Following treatment, serum, liver, and kidney tissues were used to assess blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine, enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants, and lipid peroxidation. Gentamicin significantly increased serum BUN, creatinin, and liver and kidney levels of malondialdehyde (MDA). It also decreased the activity of catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and superoxide dismutase (SOD). Treatment with the HPE 100 mg/kg reversed gentamicin-induced alterations as evidenced by decreased serum BUN and creatinin, liver and kidney oxidant marker, and tubular necrosis as well as by an increase in antioxidant enzymes. It was found that HPE 200 mg/kg significantly increased liver and kidney tissue MDA levels in nephrotoxicity in rats. As a result, these findings support the proposition that HPE in 100 mg/kg dose demonstrates in the kidney and liver as free radicals and scavenger to prevent the toxic effects of gentamicin in both the biochemical and histopathology parameters.

Protective and Anti-Pathology Effects of Sm Fructose-1,6-Bisphosphate Aldolase-Based DNA Vaccine against Schistosoma mansoni by Changing Route of Injection

PubMed Central

Saber, Mohamed; Hammam, Olft; Karim, Amr; Medhat, Amina; Khela, Mamdouh; El-Dabaa, Ehab

2013-01-01

This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of fructose-1,6-bis phosphate aldolase (SMALDO) DNA vaccination against Schistosoma mansoni infection using different routes of injection. The SMALDO has been cloned into the eukaryotic expression vector pcDNA3.1/V5-His TOPO-TA and was used in injecting Swiss albino mice intramuscularly (IM), subcutaneously (SC), or intraperitoneally (IP) (50 µg/mouse). Mice vaccinated with non-recombinant pcDNA3.1 served as controls. Each group was immunized 4 times at weeks 0, 2, 4, and 6. Two weeks after the last booster dose, all mice groups were infected with 80 S. mansoni cercariae via tail immersion. At week 8 post-infection, animals were sacrificed for assessment of parasitological and histopathological parameters. High anti-SMALDO IgG antibody titers were detected in sera of all vaccinated groups (P<0.01) compared to the control group. Both the IP and SC vaccination routes resulted in a significant reduction in worm burden (46.2% and 28.9%, respectively, P<0.01). This was accompanied by a significant reduction in hepatic and intestinal egg counts (41.7% and 40.2%, respectively, P<0.01) in the IP group only. The number of dead eggs was significantly increased in both IP and IM groups (P<0.01). IP vaccination recorded the highest significant reduction in granuloma number and diameter (54.7% and 29.2%, respectively, P<0.01) and significant increase in dead miracidia (P<0.01). In conclusion, changing the injection route of SMALDO DNA vaccination significantly influenced the efficacy of vaccination. SMALDO DNA vaccination via IP route could be a promising protective and anti-pathology vaccine candidate against S. mansoni infection. PMID:23710082

Protective and anti-pathology effects of Sm fructose-1,6-bisphosphate aldolase-based DNA vaccine against schistosoma mansoni by changing route of injection.

PubMed

Saber, Mohamed; Diab, Tarek; Hammam, Olft; Karim, Amr; Medhat, Amina; Khela, Mamdouh; El-Dabaa, Ehab

2013-04-01

This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of fructose-1,6-bis phosphate aldolase (SMALDO) DNA vaccination against Schistosoma mansoni infection using different routes of injection. The SMALDO has been cloned into the eukaryotic expression vector pcDNA3.1/V5-His TOPO-TA and was used in injecting Swiss albino mice intramuscularly (IM), subcutaneously (SC), or intraperitoneally (IP) (50 µg/mouse). Mice vaccinated with non-recombinant pcDNA3.1 served as controls. Each group was immunized 4 times at weeks 0, 2, 4, and 6. Two weeks after the last booster dose, all mice groups were infected with 80 S. mansoni cercariae via tail immersion. At week 8 post-infection, animals were sacrificed for assessment of parasitological and histopathological parameters. High anti-SMALDO IgG antibody titers were detected in sera of all vaccinated groups (P<0.01) compared to the control group. Both the IP and SC vaccination routes resulted in a significant reduction in worm burden (46.2% and 28.9%, respectively, P<0.01). This was accompanied by a significant reduction in hepatic and intestinal egg counts (41.7% and 40.2%, respectively, P<0.01) in the IP group only. The number of dead eggs was significantly increased in both IP and IM groups (P<0.01). IP vaccination recorded the highest significant reduction in granuloma number and diameter (54.7% and 29.2%, respectively, P<0.01) and significant increase in dead miracidia (P<0.01). In conclusion, changing the injection route of SMALDO DNA vaccination significantly influenced the efficacy of vaccination. SMALDO DNA vaccination via IP route could be a promising protective and anti-pathology vaccine candidate against S. mansoni infection.

The Effect of Apically Repositioned Flap Surgery on Clinical Parameters and the Composition of the Subgingival Microbiota: 12-Month Data

PubMed Central

Levy, Rustin M.; Giannobile, William V.; Feres, Magda; Haffajee, Anne D.; Smith, Claire; Socransky, Sigmund S.

2008-01-01

The purpose of this investigation was to examine the clinical and microbiologic effects of apically repositioned flap surgery. Eighteen patients with chronic periodontitis received initial preparation (IP) including scaling and root planing, followed at 3 months by apically repositioned flap surgery at sites with pocket depth > 4 mm. Subjects were monitored clinically and microbiologically at baseline, 3 months after IP, and at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months postsurgery. Clinical assessments of plaque accumulation, gingival redness, suppuration, bleeding on probing, pocket depth, and attachment level were made at six sites per tooth. Subgingival plaque samples were taken from the mesial aspect of each tooth, and the presence and levels of 40 subgingival taxa were determined using checkerboard DNA-DNA hybridization. Significant reductions were seen in mean pocket depth and percentage of sites exhibiting gingival redness and bleeding on probing in both sites that received IP only and in sites receiving IP followed by surgery. Mean attachment level increased significantly for both sets of sites, but the increase was greater at the surgically treated sites. The total DNA probe counts were significantly reduced at sites in both treatment groups. At surgically treated sites, 19 of 40 taxa were significantly reduced posttherapy. At sites receiving IP only, 16 species were significantly reduced over time. While there were some reductions in mean counts after IP in this site group, the major reductions occurred after the surgical phase in these patients, even though these particular sites did not receive surgical therapy. The reduction in pocket depth by surgical means and the associated decrease in reservoirs of periodontal pathogens may be important in achieving sustained periodontal stability. PMID:12186343

Three-dimensional exploration of the solar wind using observations of interplanetary scintillation

PubMed Central

TOKUMARU, Munetoshi

2013-01-01

The solar wind, a supersonic plasma flow continuously emanating from the Sun, governs the space environment in a vast region extending to the boundary of the heliosphere (∼100 AU). Precise understanding of the solar wind is of importance not only because it will satisfy scientific interest in an enigmatic astrophysical phenomenon, but because it has broad impacts on relevant fields. Interplanetary scintillation (IPS) of compact radio sources at meter to centimeter wavelengths serves as a useful ground-based method for investigating the solar wind. IPS measurements of the solar wind at a frequency of 327 MHz have been carried out regularly since the 1980s using the multi-station system of the Solar-Terrestrial Environment Laboratory (STEL) of Nagoya University. This paper reviews new aspects of the solar wind revealed from our IPS observations. PMID:23391604

On recovering distributed IP information from inductive source time domain electromagnetic data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kang, Seogi; Oldenburg, Douglas W.

2016-10-01

We develop a procedure to invert time domain induced polarization (IP) data for inductive sources. Our approach is based upon the inversion methodology in conventional electrical IP (EIP), which uses a sensitivity function that is independent of time. However, significant modifications are required for inductive source IP (ISIP) because electric fields in the ground do not achieve a steady state. The time-history for these fields needs to be evaluated and then used to define approximate IP currents. The resultant data, either a magnetic field or its derivative, are evaluated through the Biot-Savart law. This forms the desired linear relationship between data and pseudo-chargeability. Our inversion procedure has three steps: (1) Obtain a 3-D background conductivity model. We advocate, where possible, that this be obtained by inverting early-time data that do not suffer significantly from IP effects. (2) Decouple IP responses embedded in the observations by forward modelling the TEM data due to a background conductivity and subtracting these from the observations. (3) Use the linearized sensitivity function to invert data at each time channel and recover pseudo-chargeability. Post-interpretation of the recovered pseudo-chargeabilities at multiple times allows recovery of intrinsic Cole-Cole parameters such as time constant and chargeability. The procedure is applicable to all inductive source survey geometries but we focus upon airborne time domain EM (ATEM) data with a coincident-loop configuration because of the distinctive negative IP signal that is observed over a chargeable body. Several assumptions are adopted to generate our linearized modelling but we systematically test the capability and accuracy of the linearization for ISIP responses arising from different conductivity structures. On test examples we show: (1) our decoupling procedure enhances the ability to extract information about existence and location of chargeable targets directly from the data maps; (2) the horizontal location of a target body can be well recovered through inversion; (3) the overall geometry of a target body might be recovered but for ATEM data a depth weighting is required in the inversion; (4) we can recover estimates of intrinsic τ and η that may be useful for distinguishing between two chargeable targets.

Pharmacokinetics of Intraperitoneal Cefalothin and Cefazolin in Patients Being Treated for Peritoneal Dialysis-Associated Peritonitis.

PubMed

Roberts, Darren M; Ranganathan, Dwarakanathan; Wallis, Steven C; Varghese, Julie M; Kark, Adrian; Lipman, Jeffrey; Roberts, Jason A

2016-01-01

♦ The standard treatment of peritoneal dialysis (PD)-associated peritonitis (PD-peritonitis) is intraperitoneal (IP) administration of antibiotics. Only limited data on the pharmacokinetics and appropriateness of contemporary dose recommendations of IP cefalothin and cefazolin exist. The aim of this study was to describe the pharmacokinetics of IP cefalothin and cefazolin in patients treated for PD-peritonitis. ♦ As per international guidelines, IP cefalothin or cefazolin 15 mg/kg once daily was dosed with gentamicin in a 6-hour dwell to patients with PD-peritonitis during routine care. Serial plasma and PD effluent samples were collected over the first 24 hours of therapy. Antibiotic concentrations were quantified using a validated chromatographic method with pharmacokinetic analysis performed using a non-compartmental approach. ♦ Nineteen patients were included (cefalothin n = 8, cefazolin n = 11). The median bioavailability for both antibiotics exceeded 92%, but other pharmacokinetic parameters varied markedly between antibiotics. Both antibiotics achieved high PD effluent concentrations throughout the antibiotic dwell. Cefazolin had a smaller volume of distribution compared with cefalothin (14 vs 40 L, p = 0.003). The median trough total plasma antibiotic concentration for cefazolin and cefalothin during the dwell differed (plasma 56 vs 13 mg/L, p < 0.0001) despite a similar concentration in PD effluent (37 vs 38 mg/L, p = 0.58). Lower antibiotic concentrations were noted during PD dwells not containing antibiotic, particularly cefalothin, which was frequently undetectable in plasma and PD effluent. The median duration that the unbound antibiotic concentration was above the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was approximately 13% (plasma) and 25% (IP) for cefalothin, and 100% (plasma and IP) for cefazolin, of the dosing interval. ♦ When IP cefalothin or cefazolin is allowed to dwell for 6 hours, sufficient PD effluent concentrations are present for common pathogens during this time. However, with once-daily IP dosing, in contrast to cefazolin, there is a risk of subtherapeutic plasma and PD effluent cefalothin concentrations, so more frequent dosing may be required. Copyright © 2016 International Society for Peritoneal Dialysis.

Design, Realization, and First Validation of an Immersive Web-Based Virtual Patient Simulator for Training Clinical Decisions in Surgery.

PubMed

Kleinert, Robert; Heiermann, Nadine; Wahba, Roger; Chang, De-Huan; Hölscher, Arnulf H; Stippel, Dirk L

2015-01-01

Immersive patient simulators (IPS) allow an illusionary immersion into a synthetic world where the user can freely navigate through a 3-dimensional environment similar to computer games. Playful learning with IPS allows internalization of medical workflows without harming real patients. Ideally, IPS show high student acceptance and can have positive effect on knowledge gain. Development of IPS with high technical quality is resource intensive. Therefore most of the "high-fidelity" IPS are commercially driven. Usage of IPS in the daily curriculum is still rare. There is no academic-driven simulator that is freely accessible to every student and combines high immersion grade with a profound amount of medical content. Therefore it was our aim to develop an academic-driven IPS prototype that is free to use and combines a high immersion grade with profound medical content. In addition, a first validation of the prototype was conducted. The conceptual design included definition of the following parameters: amount of curricular content, grade of technical quality, availability, and level of validation. A preliminary validation was done with 25 students. Students' opinion about acceptance was evaluated by a Likert-scale questionnaire. Effect on knowledge gain was determined by testing concordance and predictive validity. A custom-made simulator prototype (Artificial learning interface for clinical education [ALICE]) displays a virtual clinic environment that can be explored from a first-person view similar to a video game. By controlling an avatar, the user navigates through the environment, is able to treat virtual patients, and faces the consequence of different decisions. ALICE showed high students' acceptance. There was positive correlation for concordance validity and predictive validity. Simulator usage had positive effect on reproduction of trained content and declarative knowledge. We successfully developed a university-based, IPS prototype (ALICE) with profound medical content. ALICE is a nonprofit simulator, easy to use, and showed high students' acceptance; thus it potentially provides an additional tool for supporting student teaching in the daily clinical curriculum. Copyright © 2015 Association of Program Directors in Surgery. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Effect of caffeic acid phenethyl ester on oxidant and anti-oxidant status of liver and serum in a rat model with acute methanol intoxication.

PubMed

Yazgan, Ü C; Elbey, B; Kuş, S; Baykal, B; Keskin, I; Yılmaz, A; Şahin, A

2017-05-01

Methanol toxicity is one of the major public health problems because it can cause severe morbidity and mortality. Methanol intoxication causes changes in the balance between the production of free radicals and antioxidant capacity. We aimed to investigate the effects of caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) on the total oxidant status, total antioxidant status (TAS), and oxidative stress index (OSI) parameters of the liver and the serum in a rat model of acute methanol intoxication. Rats were treated with intraperitoneal (i.p.) Methotrexate (MTX) for 7 days. On the 8th day, i.p. Methanol was administered in the methanol, ethanol and CAPE groups. Four hours after methanol treatment, ethanol was injected i.p. in the ethanol group; CAPE (i.p.) in the CAPE group; serum physiologic i.p. in other groups. After 8 hours, rats were killed and the serum and the liver samples were obtained for biochemical analyses. The OSI value was significantly higher in the methanol group compared to the ethanol and CAPE groups. Serum TAS levels of the methanol group were significantly different compared to the control group, but not compared to the MTX group. The amelioration of oxidative stress was greater in the CAPE group compared to the ethanol group but was not statistically significant. This study demonstrates that CAPE treatment ameliorates oxidative stress in the serum and liver in a rat model of acute methanol intoxication.

Machinability of IPS Empress 2 framework ceramic.

PubMed

Schmidt, C; Weigl, P

2000-01-01

Using ceramic materials for an automatic production of ceramic dentures by CAD/CAM is a challenge, because many technological, medical, and optical demands must be considered. The IPS Empress 2 framework ceramic meets most of them. This study shows the possibilities for machining this ceramic with economical parameters. The long life-time requirement for ceramic dentures requires a ductile machined surface to avoid the well-known subsurface damages of brittle materials caused by machining. Slow and rapid damage propagation begins at break outs and cracks, and limits life-time significantly. Therefore, ductile machined surfaces are an important demand for machine dental ceramics. The machining tests were performed with various parameters such as tool grain size and feed speed. Denture ceramics were machined by jig grinding on a 5-axis CNC milling machine (Maho HGF 500) with a high-speed spindle up to 120,000 rpm. The results of the wear test indicate low tool wear. With one tool, you can machine eight occlusal surfaces including roughing and finishing. One occlusal surface takes about 60 min machining time. Recommended parameters for roughing are middle diamond grain size (D107), cutting speed v(c) = 4.7 m/s, feed speed v(ft) = 1000 mm/min, depth of cut a(e) = 0.06 mm, width of contact a(p) = 0.8 mm, and for finishing ultra fine diamond grain size (D46), cutting speed v(c) = 4.7 m/s, feed speed v(ft) = 100 mm/min, depth of cut a(e) = 0.02 mm, width of contact a(p) = 0.8 mm. The results of the machining tests give a reference for using IPS Empress(R) 2 framework ceramic in CAD/CAM systems. Copyright 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

The association effect of insulin and clonazepam on oxidative stress in liver of an experimental animal model of diabetes and depression.

PubMed

Wayhs, Carlos Alberto Yasin; Tortato, Caroline; Mescka, Caroline Paula; Pasquali, Matheus Augusto; Schnorr, Carlos Eduardo; Nin, Maurício Schüler; Barros, Helena Maria Tannhauser; Moreira, José Claudio Fonseca; Vargas, Carmen Regla

2013-05-01

It is known that oxidative stress occurs in peripheral blood in an experimental animal model of diabetes and depression, and acute treatment with insulin and clonazepam (CNZ) has a protective effect on oxidative stress in this model. This study evaluated the effect of insulin plus CNZ on oxidative stress parameters in the liver of diabetic male rats induced with streptozotocin (STZ) and subjected to forced swimming test (FST). Diabetes was induced by a single intraperitoneal (i.p.) dose of STZ 60 mg/kg in male Wistar rats. Insulin (4 IU/kg) plus CNZ acute i.p. treatment (0.25 mg/kg) was administered 24, 5 and 1 h before the FST. Nondiabetic control rats received i.p. injections of saline (1 mL/kg). Protein oxidative damage was evaluated by carbonyl formation and the antioxidant redox parameters were analyzed by the measurements of enzymatic activities of the superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase and glyoxalase I (GLO). Glycemia levels also were determined. Our present study has shown an increase in carbonyl content from diabetic rats subjected to FST (2.04 ± 0.55), while the activity of catalase (51.83 ± 19.02) and SOD (2.30 ± 1.23) were significantly decreased in liver from these animals, which were reverted by the treatment. Also, the activity of GLO (0.15 ± 0.02) in the liver of the animals was decreased. Our findings showed that insulin plus CNZ acute treatment ameliorate the antioxidant redox parameters and protect against protein oxidative damage in the liver of diabetic rats subjected to FST.

Large Energetic Particle Pressures in Solar Cycles 23 and 24

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lario, D.; Decker, R. B.; Roelof, E. C.; Viñas, A. F.; Wimmer-Schweingruber, R. F.; Berger, L.

2017-09-01

We study periods of elevated energetic particle intensities observed at the L1 Sun-Earth Lagrangian point when the partial energy density associated with energetic (≥80 keV) particles (PEP) dominates that of the local magnetic field (PB) and thermal plasma populations (PPLS). These periods are not uncommon and are frequently observed prior to the passage of interplanetary (IP) shocks. Because of the significant decreases in key solar wind parameters observed during solar cycle 24 [e.g., 1], we were motivated to perform a comparative statistical analysis to determine if the occurrence rate of periods when PEP exceeded PB or PPLS, or both, differed between solar cycles 23 and 24. We find that the general decrease of PB and PPLS in solar cycle 24 was also accompanied by a general decrease of periods with elevated PEP. The result is that solar cycle 24 showed a lower number of time intervals dominated by PEP. We analyze whether these differences can be related to the properties of the IP shocks observed at L1. Incomplete datasets of shock parameters do not show significant differences between solar cycles 23 and 24 that would allow us to explain the difference in the number of periods with PEP>PB and PEP>PPLS. We analyze then the averaged plasma parameters measured in the upstream region of the shocks and find significantly lower solar wind proton temperatures and magnetic field magnitude upstream of IP shocks in solar cycle 24 compared with those in solar cycle 23. These factors, together with the lower level of solar activity, may explain the lower particle intensities in solar cycle 24 and hence the fewer events with PEP>PB and PEP>PPLS.

Higher-order equation-of-motion coupled-cluster methods for ionization processes.

PubMed

Kamiya, Muneaki; Hirata, So

2006-08-21

Compact algebraic equations defining the equation-of-motion coupled-cluster (EOM-CC) methods for ionization potentials (IP-EOM-CC) have been derived and computer implemented by virtue of a symbolic algebra system largely automating these processes. Models with connected cluster excitation operators truncated after double, triple, or quadruple level and with linear ionization operators truncated after two-hole-one-particle (2h1p), three-hole-two-particle (3h2p), or four-hole-three-particle (4h3p) level (abbreviated as IP-EOM-CCSD, CCSDT, and CCSDTQ, respectively) have been realized into parallel algorithms taking advantage of spin, spatial, and permutation symmetries with optimal size dependence of the computational costs. They are based on spin-orbital formalisms and can describe both alpha and beta ionizations from open-shell (doublet, triplet, etc.) reference states into ionized states with various spin magnetic quantum numbers. The application of these methods to Koopmans and satellite ionizations of N2 and CO (with the ambiguity due to finite basis sets eliminated by extrapolation) has shown that IP-EOM-CCSD frequently accounts for orbital relaxation inadequately and displays errors exceeding a couple of eV. However, these errors can be systematically reduced to tenths or even hundredths of an eV by IP-EOM-CCSDT or CCSDTQ. Comparison of spectroscopic parameters of the FH+ and NH+ radicals between IP-EOM-CC and experiments has also underscored the importance of higher-order IP-EOM-CC treatments. For instance, the harmonic frequencies of the A 2Sigma- state of NH+ are predicted to be 1285, 1723, and 1705 cm(-1) by IP-EOM-CCSD, CCSDT, and CCSDTQ, respectively, as compared to the observed value of 1707 cm(-1). The small adiabatic energy separation (observed 0.04 eV) between the X 2Pi and a 4Sigma- states of NH+ also requires IP-EOM-CCSDTQ for a quantitative prediction (0.06 eV) when the a 4Sigma- state has the low-spin magnetic quantum number (s(z) = 1/2). When the state with s(z) = 3/2 is sought, the energy separations converge much more rapidly with the IP-EOM-CCSD value (0.03 eV) already being close to the observed (0.04 eV).

Metabolic activation of 2-amino-1-methyl-6-phenylimidazo [4,5-b]pyridine and DNA adduct formation depends on p53: Studies in Trp53(+/+),Trp53(+/-) and Trp53(-/-) mice.

PubMed

Krais, Annette M; Speksnijder, Ewoud N; Melis, Joost P M; Singh, Rajinder; Caldwell, Anna; Gamboa da Costa, Gonçalo; Luijten, Mirjam; Phillips, David H; Arlt, Volker M

2016-02-15

The expression of the tumor suppressor p53 can influence the bioactivation of, and DNA damage induced by, the environmental carcinogen benzo[a]pyrene, indicating a role for p53 in its cytochrome P450 (CYP)-mediated biotransformation. The carcinogen 2-amino-1-methyl-6-phenylimidazo[4,5-b]pyridine (PhIP), which is formed during the cooking of food, is also metabolically activated by CYP enzymes, particularly CYP1A2. We investigated the potential role of p53 in PhIP metabolism in vivo by treating Trp53(+/+), Trp53(+/-) and Trp53(-/-) mice with a single oral dose of 50 mg/kg body weight PhIP. N-(Deoxyguanosin-8-yl)-2-amino-1-methyl-6-phenylimidazo[4,5-b]pyridine (PhIP-C8-dG) levels in DNA, measured by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry, were significantly lower in liver, colon, forestomach and glandular stomach of Trp53(-/-) mice compared to Trp53(+/+) mice. Lower PhIP-DNA adduct levels in the livers of Trp53(-/-) mice correlated with lower Cyp1a2 enzyme activity (measured by methoxyresorufin-O-demethylase activity) in these animals. Interestingly, PhIP-DNA adduct levels were significantly higher in kidney and bladder of Trp53(-/-) mice compared to Trp53(+/+) mice, which was accompanied by higher sulfotransferase (Sult) 1a1 protein levels and increased Sult1a1 enzyme activity (measured by 2-naphthylsulfate formation from 2-naphthol) in kidneys of these animals. Our study demonstrates a role for p53 in the metabolism of PhIP in vivo, extending previous results on a novel role for p53 in xenobiotic metabolism. Our results also indicate that the impact of p53 on PhIP biotransformation is tissue-dependent and that in addition to Cyp1a enzymes, Sult1a1 can contribute to PhIP-DNA adduct formation. © 2015 The Authors International Journal of Cancer published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of UICC.

Approaches in highly parameterized inversion - GENIE, a general model-independent TCP/IP run manager

USGS Publications Warehouse

Muffels, Christopher T.; Schreuder, Willem A.; Doherty, John E.; Karanovic, Marinko; Tonkin, Matthew J.; Hunt, Randall J.; Welter, David E.

2012-01-01

GENIE is a model-independent suite of programs that can be used to generally distribute, manage, and execute multiple model runs via the TCP/IP infrastructure. The suite consists of a file distribution interface, a run manage, a run executer, and a routine that can be compiled as part of a program and used to exchange model runs with the run manager. Because communication is via a standard protocol (TCP/IP), any computer connected to the Internet can serve in any of the capacities offered by this suite. Model independence is consistent with the existing template and instruction file protocols of the widely used PEST parameter estimation program. This report describes (1) the problem addressed; (2) the approach used by GENIE to queue, distribute, and retrieve model runs; and (3) user instructions, classes, and functions developed. It also includes (4) an example to illustrate the linking of GENIE with Parallel PEST using the interface routine.

Esthetic restorative materials and opposing enamel wear.

PubMed

Olivera, Anna Belsuzarri; Marques, Márcia Martins

2008-01-01

This in vitro study compared the effects of a gold alloy (Degulor M), four dental ceramics (IPS Empress, IPS Empress 2, Duceram Plus, Duceram LFC) and a laboratory-processed composite (Targis) on the wear of human enamel. The amount of wear of the enamel (dental cusps) and restorative materials (disks) were tested in water at 37 degrees C under standard load (20 N), with a chewing rate of 1.3 Hz and was determined after 150,000 and 300,000 cycles. Before the test, the average surface roughness of the restorative materials was analyzed using the Ra parameter. The results of this study indicate that Targis caused enamel wear similar to Degulor M and resulted in significantly less wear than all the ceramics tested. IPS Empress provoked the greatest amount of enamel wear and Degulor M caused less vertical dimension loss. Targis could be an appropriate alternative material to ceramic, because it is esthetic and produces opposing enamel wear comparable to gold alloy.

Modified cantilevers to probe unambiguously out-of-plane piezoresponse

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alyabyeva, Natalia; Ouvrard, Aimeric; Lindfors-Vrejoiu, Ionela; Kolomiytsev, Alexey; Solodovnik, Maxim; Ageev, Oleg; McGrouther, Damien

2018-06-01

We demonstrate and investigate the coupling of contributions from both in-plane (IP) polarization and out-of-plane (OP) components in BiFeO3 (BFO) thin-film polarization probed by piezoresponse force microscopy (PFM). Such coupling leads to image artifacts which prevent the correct determination of OP polarization vector directions and the corresponding piezoelectric coefficient d33. Using material strength theory with a one-dimensional modeling of the cantilever oscillation amplitude under electrostatic and elastic forces as a function of the tip length, we have evidenced the impact of IP piezoresponse to the OP signal for tip length longer than 4 μm. The IP polarization vector induces a significant longitudinal bending of the cantilever, due to the small spring constant of long tips, which provokes a normal deviation superimposed to the OP piezoresponse. These artifacts can be reduced by increasing the longitudinal spring constant of the cantilever by shortening the tip length. Standard cantilevers with 15-μm-long tips were modified to reach the desired tip length, using focused ion-beam techniques and tested using PFM on the same BFO thin film. Tip length shortening has strongly reduced IP artifacts as expected, while the impact of nonlocal electrostatic forces, becoming predominant for tips shorter than 1 μm, has led to a non-negligible deflection offset. For shorter tips, a strong electric field from a cantilever beam can induce polarization switching as observed for a 0.5-μm-long tip. Tip length ranging from 1 to 4 μm allowed minimizing both artifacts to probe unambiguously OP piezoresponse and quantify the d33 piezoelectric coefficient.

Preliminary study of head-up assessment techniques. 1: Viewing duration of instrument panel and HUD symbology using a recall methodology

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Haines, R. F.

1978-01-01

Eight commercial pilots were shown 50 colored, high fidelity slides of a standard instrument panel (IP) with the needle positions of each instrument varying from slide to slide and then 50 slides of a head-up display (HUD) symbology format which contained an equivalent amount of flight-related information as the instrument panel slides. All stimuli were presented under controlled, static viewing conditions that allowed the measurement of the speed and accuracy with which one randomly selected flight parameter on each slide could be read. The subject did not know which parameter would be requested and, therefore, had to remember the total set of information in order to answer the question correctly. The results showed that from 6.6 - 8.7 sec total viewing time was required to correctly extract altitude, airspeed, heading, VSI, or ADI from the IP slides and from 6.1 to 7.4 sec for the HUD slides.

In-plane g factor of low-density two-dimensional holes in a Ge quantum well.

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

Lu, Tzu-Ming; Harris, Charles Thomas; Huang, Shih-Hsien

High-mobility two-dimensional (2D) holes residing in a Ge quantum well are a new electronic system with potentials in quantum computing and spintronics. Since for any electronic material, the effective mass and the g factor are two fundamental material parameters that determine the material response to electric and magnetic fields, measuring these two parameters in this material system is thus an important task that needs to be completed urgently. Because of the quantum confinement in the crystal growth direction (z), the biaxial strain of epitaxial Ge on SiGe, and the valance band nature, both the effective mass and the g factormore » can show very strong anisotropy. In particular, the in-plane g factor (g ip) can be vanishingly small while the perpendicular g factor (g z) can be much larger than 2. Here we report the measurement of g ip at very low hole densities using in-plane magneto-resistance measurement performed at the NHMFL.« less

Comparison of Gated Audiovisual Speech Identification in Elderly Hearing Aid Users and Elderly Normal-Hearing Individuals: Effects of Adding Visual Cues to Auditory Speech Stimuli.

PubMed

Moradi, Shahram; Lidestam, Björn; Rönnberg, Jerker

2016-06-17

The present study compared elderly hearing aid (EHA) users (n = 20) with elderly normal-hearing (ENH) listeners (n = 20) in terms of isolation points (IPs, the shortest time required for correct identification of a speech stimulus) and accuracy of audiovisual gated speech stimuli (consonants, words, and final words in highly and less predictable sentences) presented in silence. In addition, we compared the IPs of audiovisual speech stimuli from the present study with auditory ones extracted from a previous study, to determine the impact of the addition of visual cues. Both participant groups achieved ceiling levels in terms of accuracy in the audiovisual identification of gated speech stimuli; however, the EHA group needed longer IPs for the audiovisual identification of consonants and words. The benefit of adding visual cues to auditory speech stimuli was more evident in the EHA group, as audiovisual presentation significantly shortened the IPs for consonants, words, and final words in less predictable sentences; in the ENH group, audiovisual presentation only shortened the IPs for consonants and words. In conclusion, although the audiovisual benefit was greater for EHA group, this group had inferior performance compared with the ENH group in terms of IPs when supportive semantic context was lacking. Consequently, EHA users needed the initial part of the audiovisual speech signal to be longer than did their counterparts with normal hearing to reach the same level of accuracy in the absence of a semantic context. © The Author(s) 2016.

On the functional role of human parietal cortex in number processing: How gender mediates the impact of a 'virtual lesion' induced by rTMS.

PubMed

Knops, Andre; Nuerk, Hans-Christoph; Sparing, Roland; Foltys, Henrik; Willmes, Klaus

2006-01-01

Areas around the horizontal part of the intraparietal sulcus (hIPS) have repeatedly been reported to participate in processing numerical magnitude. Using transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), we investigated the functional role of the hIPS by examining two effects from the domain of numerical cognition: in magnitude comparison tasks response latencies are inversely related to the numerical distance between two numbers. This distance effect indexes access to the mental number representation. In magnitude comparison tasks responses are faster when decade and unit comparison would lead to the same decision (e.g. 42_57, 4 < 5 and 2 < 7) than when they would not (e.g. 47_62, 4 < 6 but 7 > 2). This compatibility effect reflects unit-decade integration processes. Differential susceptibility of (fe)male participants to TMS was examined. We applied repetitive TMS (rTMS; 1Hz for 10 min) over the left hIPS in 12 participants (6 female). No stimulation and vertex stimulation served as control conditions. The effect of rTMS was mediated by gender: in male participants, the distance effect decreased after TMS over hIPS. For female participants distance and compatibility effect both increased. This modulation of the compatibility effect was limited in duration to no more than 4 min. The hIPS seems to be functionally involved both in number magnitude processing and in integrating unit-decade magnitude information of two-digit numbers. Relative hemispheric specialization of the hIPS with respect to two-digit magnitude comparison is discussed.

Economic, Labor, and Regulatory Moderators of the Effect of Individual Placement and Support Among People With Severe Mental Illness: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

PubMed

Metcalfe, Justin D; Drake, Robert E; Bond, Gary R

2018-01-13

As Individual Placement and Support (IPS) has become the international standard for vocational rehabilitation of adults with serious mental illness, researchers must consider the relationship between IPS and local environments. This meta-analysis used mixed-effects meta-regressions to assess the impact of site-level moderators on the likelihood that IPS recipients, compared with recipients of alternative vocational services, achieved competitive employment. Potential moderators included change in gross domestic product (GDP), local unemployment and unionization rates, and indices describing employment protection regulations, level of disability benefits compensation, and efforts to integrate people with disabilities into the workforce. Regulatory moderators represent facilitators and barriers to employment that may reinforce or detract from the effectiveness of IPS. Across 30 sites drawn from 21 randomized controlled trials in 12 countries (33% in the United States), IPS recipients were 2.31 (95% CI 1.99-2.69) times more likely to find competitive employment than recipients of alternative vocational rehabilitation services. The significant competitive-employment rate advantage of IPS over control services increased in the presence of weaker employment protection legislation and integration efforts, and less generous disability benefits. Policy makers should recognize and account for the fact that labor and disability regulations can create an arrangement of incentives that reduces the relative efficacy of supported employment. © The Author(s) 2017. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Maryland Psychiatric Research Center. All rights reserved. For permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Speech perception benefits of internet versus conventional telephony for hearing-impaired individuals.

PubMed

Mantokoudis, Georgios; Dubach, Patrick; Pfiffner, Flurin; Kompis, Martin; Caversaccio, Marco; Senn, Pascal

2012-07-16

Telephone communication is a challenge for many hearing-impaired individuals. One important technical reason for this difficulty is the restricted frequency range (0.3-3.4 kHz) of conventional landline telephones. Internet telephony (voice over Internet protocol [VoIP]) is transmitted with a larger frequency range (0.1-8 kHz) and therefore includes more frequencies relevant to speech perception. According to a recently published, laboratory-based study, the theoretical advantage of ideal VoIP conditions over conventional telephone quality has translated into improved speech perception by hearing-impaired individuals. However, the speech perception benefits of nonideal VoIP network conditions, which may occur in daily life, have not been explored. VoIP use cannot be recommended to hearing-impaired individuals before its potential under more realistic conditions has been examined. To compare realistic VoIP network conditions, under which digital data packets may be lost, with ideal conventional telephone quality with respect to their impact on speech perception by hearing-impaired individuals. We assessed speech perception using standardized test material presented under simulated VoIP conditions with increasing digital data packet loss (from 0% to 20%) and compared with simulated ideal conventional telephone quality. We monaurally tested 10 adult users of cochlear implants, 10 adult users of hearing aids, and 10 normal-hearing adults in the free sound field, both in quiet and with background noise. Across all participant groups, mean speech perception scores using VoIP with 0%, 5%, and 10% packet loss were 15.2% (range 0%-53%), 10.6% (4%-46%), and 8.8% (7%-33%) higher, respectively, than with ideal conventional telephone quality. Speech perception did not differ between VoIP with 20% packet loss and conventional telephone quality. The maximum benefits were observed under ideal VoIP conditions without packet loss and were 36% (P = .001) for cochlear implant users, 18% (P = .002) for hearing aid users, and 53% (P = .001) for normal-hearing adults. With a packet loss of 10%, the maximum benefits were 30% (P = .002) for cochlear implant users, 6% (P = .38) for hearing aid users, and 33% (P = .002) for normal-hearing adults. VoIP offers a speech perception benefit over conventional telephone quality, even when mild or moderate packet loss scenarios are created in the laboratory. VoIP, therefore, has the potential to significantly improve telecommunication abilities for the large community of hearing-impaired individuals.

Speech Perception Benefits of Internet Versus Conventional Telephony for Hearing-Impaired Individuals

PubMed Central

Dubach, Patrick; Pfiffner, Flurin; Kompis, Martin; Caversaccio, Marco

2012-01-01

Background Telephone communication is a challenge for many hearing-impaired individuals. One important technical reason for this difficulty is the restricted frequency range (0.3–3.4 kHz) of conventional landline telephones. Internet telephony (voice over Internet protocol [VoIP]) is transmitted with a larger frequency range (0.1–8 kHz) and therefore includes more frequencies relevant to speech perception. According to a recently published, laboratory-based study, the theoretical advantage of ideal VoIP conditions over conventional telephone quality has translated into improved speech perception by hearing-impaired individuals. However, the speech perception benefits of nonideal VoIP network conditions, which may occur in daily life, have not been explored. VoIP use cannot be recommended to hearing-impaired individuals before its potential under more realistic conditions has been examined. Objective To compare realistic VoIP network conditions, under which digital data packets may be lost, with ideal conventional telephone quality with respect to their impact on speech perception by hearing-impaired individuals. Methods We assessed speech perception using standardized test material presented under simulated VoIP conditions with increasing digital data packet loss (from 0% to 20%) and compared with simulated ideal conventional telephone quality. We monaurally tested 10 adult users of cochlear implants, 10 adult users of hearing aids, and 10 normal-hearing adults in the free sound field, both in quiet and with background noise. Results Across all participant groups, mean speech perception scores using VoIP with 0%, 5%, and 10% packet loss were 15.2% (range 0%–53%), 10.6% (4%–46%), and 8.8% (7%–33%) higher, respectively, than with ideal conventional telephone quality. Speech perception did not differ between VoIP with 20% packet loss and conventional telephone quality. The maximum benefits were observed under ideal VoIP conditions without packet loss and were 36% (P = .001) for cochlear implant users, 18% (P = .002) for hearing aid users, and 53% (P = .001) for normal-hearing adults. With a packet loss of 10%, the maximum benefits were 30% (P = .002) for cochlear implant users, 6% (P = .38) for hearing aid users, and 33% (P = .002) for normal-hearing adults. Conclusions VoIP offers a speech perception benefit over conventional telephone quality, even when mild or moderate packet loss scenarios are created in the laboratory. VoIP, therefore, has the potential to significantly improve telecommunication abilities for the large community of hearing-impaired individuals. PMID:22805169

Linear Collider Test Facility: Twiss Parameter Analysis at the IP/Post-IP Location of the ATF2 Beam Line

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

Bolzon, Benoit; /Annecy, LAPP; Jeremie, Andrea

2012-07-02

At the first stage of the ATF2 beam tuning, vertical beam size is usually bigger than 3 {micro}m at the IP. Beam waist measurements using wire scanners and a laser wire are usually performed to check the initial matching of the beam through to the IP. These measurements are described in this paper for the optics currently used ({beta}{sub x} = 4cm and {beta}{sub y} = 1mm). Software implemented in the control room to automate these measurements with integrated analysis is also described. Measurements showed that {beta} functions and emittances were within errors of measurements when no rematching and couplingmore » corrections were done. However, it was observed that the waist in the horizontal (X) and vertical (Y) plane was abnormally shifted and simulations were performed to try to understand these shifts. They also showed that multiknobs are needed in the current optics to correct simultaneously {alpha}{sub x}, {alpha}{sub y} and the horizontal dispersion (D{sub x}). Such multiknobs were found and their linearity and orthogonality were successfully checked using MAD optics code. The software for these multiknobs was implemented in the control room and waist scan measurements using the {alpha}{sub y} knob were successfully performed.« less

Sampling and data handling methods for inhalable particulate sampling. Final report nov 78-dec 80

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

Smith, W.B.; Cushing, K.M.; Johnson, J.W.

1982-05-01

The report reviews the objectives of a research program on sampling and measuring particles in the inhalable particulate (IP) size range in emissions from stationary sources, and describes methods and equipment required. A computer technique was developed to analyze data on particle-size distributions of samples taken with cascade impactors from industrial process streams. Research in sampling systems for IP matter included concepts for maintaining isokinetic sampling conditions, necessary for representative sampling of the larger particles, while flowrates in the particle-sizing device were constant. Laboratory studies were conducted to develop suitable IP sampling systems with overall cut diameters of 15 micrometersmore » and conforming to a specified collection efficiency curve. Collection efficiencies were similarly measured for a horizontal elutriator. Design parameters were calculated for horizontal elutriators to be used with impactors, the EPA SASS train, and the EPA FAS train. Two cyclone systems were designed and evaluated. Tests on an Andersen Size Selective Inlet, a 15-micrometer precollector for high-volume samplers, showed its performance to be with the proposed limits for IP samplers. A stack sampling system was designed in which the aerosol is diluted in flow patterns and with mixing times simulating those in stack plumes.« less

A Three-Pool Model Dissecting Readily Releasable Pool Replenishment at the Calyx of Held

PubMed Central

Guo, Jun; Ge, Jian-long; Hao, Mei; Sun, Zhi-cheng; Wu, Xin-sheng; Zhu, Jian-bing; Wang, Wei; Yao, Pan-tong; Lin, Wei; Xue, Lei

2015-01-01

Although vesicle replenishment is critical in maintaining exo-endocytosis recycling, the underlying mechanisms are not well understood. Previous studies have shown that both rapid and slow endocytosis recycle into a very large recycling pool instead of within the readily releasable pool (RRP), and the time course of RRP replenishment is slowed down by more intense stimulation. This finding contradicts the calcium/calmodulin-dependence of RRP replenishment. Here we address this issue and report a three-pool model for RRP replenishment at a central synapse. Both rapid and slow endocytosis provide vesicles to a large reserve pool (RP) ~42.3 times the RRP size. When moving from the RP to the RRP, vesicles entered an intermediate pool (IP) ~2.7 times the RRP size with slow RP-IP kinetics and fast IP-RRP kinetics, which was responsible for the well-established slow and rapid components of RRP replenishment. Depletion of the IP caused the slower RRP replenishment observed after intense stimulation. These results establish, for the first time, a realistic cycling model with all parameters measured, revealing the contribution of each cycling step in synaptic transmission. The results call for modification of the current view of the vesicle recycling steps and their roles. PMID:25825223

Impact of mitochondrial Ca2+ cycling on pattern formation and stability.

PubMed

Falcke, M; Hudson, J L; Camacho, P; Lechleiter, J D

1999-07-01

Energization of mitochondria significantly alters the pattern of Ca2+ wave activity mediated by activation of the inositol (1,4,5) trisphosphate (IP3) receptor (IP3R) in Xenopus oocytes. The number of pulsatile foci is reduced and spiral Ca2+ waves are no longer observed. Rather, target patterns of Ca2+ release predominate, and when fragmented, fail to form spirals. Ca2+ wave velocity, amplitude, decay time, and periodicity are also increased. We have simulated these experimental findings by supplementing an existing mathematical model with a differential equation for mitochondrial Ca2+ uptake and release. Our calculations show that mitochondrial Ca2+ efflux plays a critical role in pattern formation by prolonging the recovery time of IP3Rs from a refractory state. We also show that under conditions of high energization of mitochondria, the Ca2+ dynamics can become bistable with a second stable stationary state of high resting Ca2+ concentration.

78 FR 69302 - National Oil and Hazardous Substances Pollution Contingency Plan; National Priorities List...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-11-19

..., II-T, III-C, I-C, II-U, I-B, I-E, I-G, I-H, I-I, I-J, I-L, I-M, I-P, II-G, II-I, II-P, III-D, I-K, I..., I-H, I-I, I-J, I-L, I-M, I-P, II-G, II-I, II-P, III-D, I-K, I-N, I-O, I-S, II-E, II-L, II-M, II-R, I... 102(h) of CERCLA, to document that all environmental impacts associated with the DON's activities on...

Multidisciplinary design optimization of vehicle instrument panel based on multi-objective genetic algorithm

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Ping; Wu, Guangqiang

2013-03-01

Typical multidisciplinary design optimization(MDO) has gradually been proposed to balance performances of lightweight, noise, vibration and harshness(NVH) and safety for instrument panel(IP) structure in the automotive development. Nevertheless, plastic constitutive relation of Polypropylene(PP) under different strain rates, has not been taken into consideration in current reliability-based and collaborative IP MDO design. In this paper, based on tensile test under different strain rates, the constitutive relation of Polypropylene material is studied. Impact simulation tests for head and knee bolster are carried out to meet the regulation of FMVSS 201 and FMVSS 208, respectively. NVH analysis is performed to obtain mainly the natural frequencies and corresponding mode shapes, while the crashworthiness analysis is employed to examine the crash behavior of IP structure. With the consideration of lightweight, NVH, head and knee bolster impact performance, design of experiment(DOE), response surface model(RSM), and collaborative optimization(CO) are applied to realize the determined and reliability-based optimizations, respectively. Furthermore, based on multi-objective genetic algorithm(MOGA), the optimal Pareto sets are completed to solve the multi-objective optimization(MOO) problem. The proposed research ensures the smoothness of Pareto set, enhances the ability of engineers to make a comprehensive decision about multi-objectives and choose the optimal design, and improves the quality and efficiency of MDO.

Protective effect of pumpkin seed extract on sperm characteristics, biochemical parameters and epididymal histology in adult male rats treated with cyclophosphamide.

PubMed

Aghaei, S; Nikzad, H; Taghizadeh, M; Tameh, A A; Taherian, A; Moravveji, A

2014-10-01

Cancer treatment with cyclophosphamide (CP) may result in reproductive toxicity as one of its side effects. The pumpkin seed is a rich natural source of antioxidant. We have assessed the possible protective efficacy of pumpkin seed extract on sperm characteristics, biochemical parameters and epididymal histology of CP-treated rats. Male adult Wistar rats were categorised into four groups. Group 1 served as control and received intraperitoneal (IP) injection of isotonic saline solution. Group 2 rats were treated with CP by IP injection in a single dose of 100 mg/kg body weight, only once. Group 3 and 4 received CP plus 300 and 600 mg/kg pumpkin seed extract respectively. Six weeks after treatment, sperm characteristics, biochemical parameters and histopathological changes were examined. Results showed that, sperm characteristics in CP-treated rats were significantly decreased. Biochemical analysis results showed that the co-administration of 300 mg pumpkin seed extract could increase the total antioxidant capacity (TAC) level significantly. In CP-treated rats, histopathological changes such as vacuolisation, disorganisation and separation of epididymal epithelium were observed as well. Interestingly, pumpkin seed extract could improve the above-mentioned parameters remarkably in CP-treated rats. Our findings indicated that pumpkin seed extract might be used as protective agent against CP-induced reproductive toxicity. © 2013 Blackwell Verlag GmbH.

Morus alba leaf extract mediates neuroprotection against glyphosate-induced toxicity and biochemical alterations in the brain.

PubMed

Rebai, Olfa; Belkhir, Manel; Boujelben, Adnen; Fattouch, Sami; Amri, Mohamed

2017-04-01

Recent studies demonstrate that glyphosate exposure is associated with oxidative stress and some neurological disorders such as Parkinson's pathology. Therefore, phytochemicals, in particular phenolic compounds, have attracted increasing attention as potential agents for neuroprotection. In the present study, we investigate the impact of glyphosate on the rat brain following i.p. injection and the possible molecular target of neuroprotective activity of the phenolic fraction from Morus alba leaf extract (MALE) and its ability to reduce oxidative damage in the brain. Wistar rats from 180 to 240 g were i.p. treated with a single dose of glyphosate (100 mg kg -1 b.w.) or MALE (100 μg mL -1  kg -1 b.w.) for 2 weeks. Brain homogenates were used to evaluate neurotoxicity induced by the pesticide. For this, biochemical parameters were measured. Data shows that MALE regulated oxidative stress and counteracted glyphosate-induced deleterious effects and oxidative damage in the brain, as it abrogated LDH, protein carbonyls, and malonyldialdehyde. MALE also appears to be able to scavenge H 2 O 2 levels, maintain iron and Ca 2+ homeostasis, and increase SOD activity. Thus, in vivo results showed that mulberry leaf extract is a potent protector against glyphosate-induced toxicity, and its protective effect could result from synergism or antagonism between the various bioactive phenolic compounds in the acetonic fraction from M. alba leaf extract.

Real-time services in IP network architectures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gilardi, Antonella

1996-12-01

The worldwide internet system seems to be the success key for the provision of real time multimedia services to both residential and business users and someone says that in such a way broadband networks will have a reason to exist. This new class of applications that use multiple media (voice, video and data) impose constraints to the global network nowadays consisting of subnets with various data links. The attention will be focused on the interconnection of IP non ATM and ATM networks. IETF and ATM forum are currently involved in the developing specifications suited to adapt the connectionless IP protocol to the connection oriented ATM protocol. First of all the link between the ATM and the IP service model has to be set in order to match the QoS and traffic requirements defined in the relative environment. A further significant topic is represented by the mapping of IP resource reservation model onto the ATM signalling and in the end it is necessary to define how the routing works when there are QoS parameters associated. This paper, considering only unicast applications, will examine the above issues taking as a starting point the situation where an host launches as call set up request with the relevant QoS and traffic descriptor and at some point a router at the edge of the ATM network has to decide how forwarding and request in order to establish an end to end link with the right capabilities. The aim is to compare the proposals emerging from different standard bodies to point out convergency or incompatibility.

GenoGAM: genome-wide generalized additive models for ChIP-Seq analysis.

PubMed

Stricker, Georg; Engelhardt, Alexander; Schulz, Daniel; Schmid, Matthias; Tresch, Achim; Gagneur, Julien

2017-08-01

Chromatin immunoprecipitation followed by deep sequencing (ChIP-Seq) is a widely used approach to study protein-DNA interactions. Often, the quantities of interest are the differential occupancies relative to controls, between genetic backgrounds, treatments, or combinations thereof. Current methods for differential occupancy of ChIP-Seq data rely however on binning or sliding window techniques, for which the choice of the window and bin sizes are subjective. Here, we present GenoGAM (Genome-wide Generalized Additive Model), which brings the well-established and flexible generalized additive models framework to genomic applications using a data parallelism strategy. We model ChIP-Seq read count frequencies as products of smooth functions along chromosomes. Smoothing parameters are objectively estimated from the data by cross-validation, eliminating ad hoc binning and windowing needed by current approaches. GenoGAM provides base-level and region-level significance testing for full factorial designs. Application to a ChIP-Seq dataset in yeast showed increased sensitivity over existing differential occupancy methods while controlling for type I error rate. By analyzing a set of DNA methylation data and illustrating an extension to a peak caller, we further demonstrate the potential of GenoGAM as a generic statistical modeling tool for genome-wide assays. Software is available from Bioconductor: https://www.bioconductor.org/packages/release/bioc/html/GenoGAM.html . gagneur@in.tum.de. Supplementary information is available at Bioinformatics online. © The Author (2017). Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com

Benchmark study of ionization potentials and electron affinities of armchair single-walled carbon nanotubes using density functional theory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhou, Bin; Hu, Zhubin; Jiang, Yanrong; He, Xiao; Sun, Zhenrong; Sun, Haitao

2018-05-01

The intrinsic parameters of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) such as ionization potential (IP) and electron affinity (EA) are closely related to their unique properties and associated applications. In this work, we demonstrated the success of optimal tuning method based on range-separated (RS) density functionals for both accurate and efficient prediction of vertical IPs and electron affinities (EAs) of a series of armchair single-walled carbon nanotubes C20n H20 (n  =  2–6) compared to the high-level IP/EA equation-of-motion coupled-cluster method with single and double substitutions (IP/EA-EOM-CCSD). Notably, the resulting frontier orbital energies (–ε HOMO and –ε LUMO) from the tuning method exhibit an excellent approximation to the corresponding IPs and EAs, that significantly outperform other conventional density functionals. In addition, it is suggested that the RS density functionals that possess both a fixed amount of exact exchange in the short-range and a correct long-range asymptotic behavior are suitable for calculating electronic structures of finite-sized CNTs. Next the performance of density functionals for description of various molecular properties such as chemical potential, hardness and electrophilicity are assessed as a function of tube length. Thanks to the efficiency and accuracy of this tuning method, the related behaviors of much longer armchair single-walled CNTs until C200H20 were studied. Lastly, the present work is proved to provide an efficient theoretical tool for future materials design and reliable characterization of other interesting properties of CNT-based systems.

Coronal Mass Ejection-driven Shocks and the Associated Sudden Commencements-sudden Impulses

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Veenadhari, B.; Selvakumaran, R.; Singh, Rajesh; Maurya, Ajeet K.; Gopalswamy, N.; Kumar, Sushil; Kikuchi, T.

2012-01-01

Interplanetary (IP) shocks are mainly responsible for the sudden compression of the magnetosphere, causing storm sudden commencement (SC) and sudden impulses (SIs) which are detected by ground-based magnetometers. On the basis of the list of 222 IP shocks compiled by Gopalswamy et al., we have investigated the dependence of SC/SIs amplitudes on the speed of the coronal mass ejections (CMEs) that drive the shocks near the Sun as well as in the interplanetary medium. We find that about 91% of the IP shocks were associated with SC/SIs. The average speed of the SC/SI-associated CMEs is 1015 km/s, which is almost a factor of 2 higher than the general CME speed. When the shocks were grouped according to their ability to produce type II radio burst in the interplanetary medium, we find that the radio-loud (RL) shocks produce a much larger SC/SI amplitude (average approx. 32 nT) compared to the radio-quiet (RQ) shocks (average approx. 19 nT). Clearly, RL shocks are more effective in producing SC/SIs than the RQ shocks. We also divided the IP shocks according to the type of IP counterpart of interplanetary CMEs (ICMEs): magnetic clouds (MCs) and nonmagnetic clouds. We find that the MC-associated shock speeds are better correlated with SC/SI amplitudes than those associated with non-MC ejecta. The SC/SI amplitudes are also higher for MCs than ejecta. Our results show that RL and RQ type of shocks are important parameters in producing the SC/SI amplitude.

Survival rates of IPS empress 2 all-ceramic crowns and fixed partial dentures: results of a 5-year prospective clinical study.

PubMed

Marquardt, Pascal; Strub, Jörg Rudolf

2006-04-01

The aim of this prospective clinical study was to evaluate the survival rates of IPS Empress 2 (Ivoclar Vivadent) all-ceramic crowns and fixed partial dentures (FPDs) after an observation period of up to 5 years. Forty-three patients (19 women and 24 men) were included in this study. The patients were treated with a total of 58 adhesive bonded IPS Empress 2 restorations. A total of 27 single crowns were placed on molars and premolars, and 31 three-unit FPDs were placed in the anterior and premolar regions. Clinical follow-up examinations took place at 6, 12, 24, 36, 48, and 60 months after insertion. Statistical analysis of the data was calculated using the Kaplan-Meier method. Results of the 50-month analysis (interquartile range, 33 to 61 months) showed that the survival rate was 100% for crowns and 70% for FPDs. Six failures that occurred exclusively in the three-unit FPDs were observed. Framework fractures were recorded in three FPD units where the connector dimensions did not meet the manufacturer specifications. Only one FPD exhibited an irreparable partial veneer fracture, and 2 FPDs showed evidence of biologic failures. The accuracy of fit and esthetic parameters were clinically satisfactory for crowns and FPDs. The results of this 5-year clinical evaluation suggest that IPS Empress 2 ceramic is an appropriate material for the fabrication of single crowns. Because of the reduced survival rates, strict conditions should be considered before the use of IPS Empress 2 material for the fabrication of three-unit FPDs.

Spatio Temporal EEG Source Imaging with the Hierarchical Bayesian Elastic Net and Elitist Lasso Models

PubMed Central

Paz-Linares, Deirel; Vega-Hernández, Mayrim; Rojas-López, Pedro A.; Valdés-Hernández, Pedro A.; Martínez-Montes, Eduardo; Valdés-Sosa, Pedro A.

2017-01-01

The estimation of EEG generating sources constitutes an Inverse Problem (IP) in Neuroscience. This is an ill-posed problem due to the non-uniqueness of the solution and regularization or prior information is needed to undertake Electrophysiology Source Imaging. Structured Sparsity priors can be attained through combinations of (L1 norm-based) and (L2 norm-based) constraints such as the Elastic Net (ENET) and Elitist Lasso (ELASSO) models. The former model is used to find solutions with a small number of smooth nonzero patches, while the latter imposes different degrees of sparsity simultaneously along different dimensions of the spatio-temporal matrix solutions. Both models have been addressed within the penalized regression approach, where the regularization parameters are selected heuristically, leading usually to non-optimal and computationally expensive solutions. The existing Bayesian formulation of ENET allows hyperparameter learning, but using the computationally intensive Monte Carlo/Expectation Maximization methods, which makes impractical its application to the EEG IP. While the ELASSO have not been considered before into the Bayesian context. In this work, we attempt to solve the EEG IP using a Bayesian framework for ENET and ELASSO models. We propose a Structured Sparse Bayesian Learning algorithm based on combining the Empirical Bayes and the iterative coordinate descent procedures to estimate both the parameters and hyperparameters. Using realistic simulations and avoiding the inverse crime we illustrate that our methods are able to recover complicated source setups more accurately and with a more robust estimation of the hyperparameters and behavior under different sparsity scenarios than classical LORETA, ENET and LASSO Fusion solutions. We also solve the EEG IP using data from a visual attention experiment, finding more interpretable neurophysiological patterns with our methods. The Matlab codes used in this work, including Simulations, Methods, Quality Measures and Visualization Routines are freely available in a public website. PMID:29200994

Spatio Temporal EEG Source Imaging with the Hierarchical Bayesian Elastic Net and Elitist Lasso Models.

PubMed

Paz-Linares, Deirel; Vega-Hernández, Mayrim; Rojas-López, Pedro A; Valdés-Hernández, Pedro A; Martínez-Montes, Eduardo; Valdés-Sosa, Pedro A

2017-01-01

The estimation of EEG generating sources constitutes an Inverse Problem (IP) in Neuroscience. This is an ill-posed problem due to the non-uniqueness of the solution and regularization or prior information is needed to undertake Electrophysiology Source Imaging. Structured Sparsity priors can be attained through combinations of (L1 norm-based) and (L2 norm-based) constraints such as the Elastic Net (ENET) and Elitist Lasso (ELASSO) models. The former model is used to find solutions with a small number of smooth nonzero patches, while the latter imposes different degrees of sparsity simultaneously along different dimensions of the spatio-temporal matrix solutions. Both models have been addressed within the penalized regression approach, where the regularization parameters are selected heuristically, leading usually to non-optimal and computationally expensive solutions. The existing Bayesian formulation of ENET allows hyperparameter learning, but using the computationally intensive Monte Carlo/Expectation Maximization methods, which makes impractical its application to the EEG IP. While the ELASSO have not been considered before into the Bayesian context. In this work, we attempt to solve the EEG IP using a Bayesian framework for ENET and ELASSO models. We propose a Structured Sparse Bayesian Learning algorithm based on combining the Empirical Bayes and the iterative coordinate descent procedures to estimate both the parameters and hyperparameters. Using realistic simulations and avoiding the inverse crime we illustrate that our methods are able to recover complicated source setups more accurately and with a more robust estimation of the hyperparameters and behavior under different sparsity scenarios than classical LORETA, ENET and LASSO Fusion solutions. We also solve the EEG IP using data from a visual attention experiment, finding more interpretable neurophysiological patterns with our methods. The Matlab codes used in this work, including Simulations, Methods, Quality Measures and Visualization Routines are freely available in a public website.

An interior penalty stabilised incompressible discontinuous Galerkin-Fourier solver for implicit large eddy simulations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ferrer, Esteban

2017-11-01

We present an implicit Large Eddy Simulation (iLES) h / p high order (≥2) unstructured Discontinuous Galerkin-Fourier solver with sliding meshes. The solver extends the laminar version of Ferrer and Willden, 2012 [34], to enable the simulation of turbulent flows at moderately high Reynolds numbers in the incompressible regime. This solver allows accurate flow solutions of the laminar and turbulent 3D incompressible Navier-Stokes equations on moving and static regions coupled through a high order sliding interface. The spatial discretisation is provided by the Symmetric Interior Penalty Discontinuous Galerkin (IP-DG) method in the x-y plane coupled with a purely spectral method that uses Fourier series and allows efficient computation of spanwise periodic three-dimensional flows. Since high order methods (e.g. discontinuous Galerkin and Fourier) are unable to provide enough numerical dissipation to enable under-resolved high Reynolds computations (i.e. as necessary in the iLES approach), we adapt the laminar version of the solver to increase (controllably) the dissipation and enhance the stability in under-resolved simulations. The novel stabilisation relies on increasing the penalty parameter included in the DG interior penalty (IP) formulation. The latter penalty term is included when discretising the linear viscous terms in the incompressible Navier-Stokes equations. These viscous penalty fluxes substitute the stabilising effect of non-linear fluxes, which has been the main trend in implicit LES discontinuous Galerkin approaches. The IP-DG penalty term provides energy dissipation, which is controlled by the numerical jumps at element interfaces (e.g. large in under-resolved regions) such as to stabilise under-resolved high Reynolds number flows. This dissipative term has minimal impact in well resolved regions and its implicit treatment does not restrict the use of large time steps, thus providing an efficient stabilization mechanism for iLES. The IP-DG stabilisation is complemented with a Spectral Vanishing Viscosity (SVV) method, in the z-direction, to enhance stability in the continuous Fourier space. The coupling between the numerical viscosity in the DG plane and the SVV damping, provides an efficient approach to stabilise high order methods at moderately high Reynolds numbers. We validate the formulation for three turbulent flow cases: a circular cylinder at Re = 3900, a static and pitch oscillating NACA 0012 airfoil at Re = 10000 and finally a rotating vertical-axis turbine at Re = 40000, with Reynolds based on the circular diameter, airfoil chord and turbine diameter, respectively. All our results compare favourably with published direct numerical simulations, large eddy simulations or experimental data. We conclude that the DG-Fourier high order solver, with IP-SVV stabilisation, proves to be a valuable tool to predict turbulent flows and associated statistics for both static and rotating machinery.

Unmonitored use of herbal medicine by patients with breast cancer: reframing expectations.

PubMed

Samuels, Noah; Ben-Arye, Eran; Maimon, Yair; Berger, Raanan

2017-11-01

To identify the unmonitored use of herbal medicine by female patients with breast cancer, examining the impact of an integrative physician (IP) consultation on this practice. The files of 269 female patients with breast cancer following an IP consultation were surveyed retrospectively for use of herbal medicine for cancer-related goals. Expectations from the IP consultation and adherence to the IP-guided treatments were examined as well. Among the cohort, 111 (41.3%) reported using herbal medicine for cancer-related goals, unmonitored by their oncology healthcare professional. Factors predicting herbal medicine use were the adoption of dietary changes (odds ratio = 13.6, p < 0.001, CI 7.16-26.0) and the expectation that the IP consultation and treatments would address cancer-related goals (odds ratio = 3.29, p = 0.001, CI 1.64-6.6). Patients with metastatic disease were more likely to be using herbal medicine than non-users (34.5 vs. 22.8%; p = 0.088), as were those who had consulted with a complementary/alternative medicine practitioner (54.9 vs. 20.8%; p = 0.005). The IP advised 17 patients (15.3%) to stop taking specific herbal products due to safety-related concerns; and 10 patients to take dietary supplements for relief of specific symptoms. Herbal medicine users were less likely than non-users to adhere to the IP-recommended treatment program (34.7 vs. 48.3%; p = 0.037). Unmonitored use of herbal medicine by patients with breast cancer is more frequent among those adopting dietary changes for cancer-related goals. Integrative physicians provide evidence-based guidance on the safe and effective use of herbal products, and reframe patient expectations from cancer-related goals to reducing symptoms and improving quality of life.

Dual-sugar tests of small intestinal permeability are poor predictors of bacterial infections and mortality in cirrhosis: A prospective study.

PubMed

Vogt, Anika; Reuken, Philipp A; Stengel, Sven; Stallmach, Andreas; Bruns, Tony

2016-03-21

To prospectively analyze the impact of increased intestinal permeability (IP) on mortality and the occurrence of infections in patients with cirrhosis. IP was quantified using the lactulose/mannitol (L/M) test in 46 hospitalized patients with cirrhosis (25 Child-Pugh A/B, 21 Child-Pugh C) and in 16 healthy controls. Markers of inflammation [LPS-binding protein, Interleukin-6 (IL-6)] and enterocyte death [intestinal fatty-acid binding protein (I-FABP)] were determined in serum using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. Patients were followed for one year and assessed for survival, liver transplantation, the necessity of hospitalization and the occurrence of bacterial infections. The primary endpoint of the study was defined as differences in survival between patients with pathological and without pathological lactulose/mannitol test. Thirty-nine (85%) patients with cirrhosis had a pathologically increased IP index (L/M ratio > 0.07) compared to 4 (25%) healthy controls (P < 0.0001). The IP index correlated with the Child-Pugh score (r = 0.484, P = 0.001) and with serum IL-6 (r = 0.342, P = 0.02). Within one year, nineteen (41%) patients developed a total of 33 episodes of hospitalization with bacterial or fungal infections. Although patients who developed spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) (n = 7) had a higher IP index than patients who did not (0.27 vs 0.14, P = 0.018), the baseline IP index did not predict time to infection, infection-free survival or overall survival, neither when assessed as linear variable, as tertiles, nor dichotomized using an established cut-off. In contrast, model for end-stage liver disease score, Child-Pugh score, the presence of ascites, serum IL-6 and I-FABP were univariate predictors of infection-free survival. Although increased IP is a frequent phenomenon in advanced cirrhosis and may predispose to SBP, it failed to predict infection-free and overall survival in this prospective cohort study.

Prompt Acceleration of Magnetospheric Electrons to Ultrarelativistic Energies by the 17 March 2015 Interplanetary Shock

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kanekal, S. G.; Baker, D. N.; Fennell, J. F.; Jones, A.; Schiller, Q.; Richardson, I.G.; Li, X.; Turner, D. L.; Califf, S.; Claudepierre, S. G.;

Memantine improves memory impairment and depressive-like behavior induced by amphetamine withdrawal in rats.

PubMed

Marszalek-Grabska, M; Gibula-Bruzda, E; Jenda, M; Gawel, K; Kotlinska, J H

2016-07-01

Amphetamine (AMPH) induces deficits in cognition, and depressive-like behavior following withdrawal. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether pre-treatment with memantine (5mg/kg, i.p.), a noncompetitive N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist, attenuates memory impairment induced by withdrawal from a 1 day binge regimen of AMPH (2mg/kg, four times every 2h, i.p.), in the novel object recognition test in rats. Herein, the influence of scopolamine (0.1mg/kg), an antagonist of the muscarinic cholinergic receptors, and the impact of MK-801 (0.1mg/kg), an antagonist of the NMDA receptors, on the memantine effect, were ascertained. Furthermore, the impact of memantine (5; 10; 20mg/kg, i.p.) was measured on depression-like effects of abstinence, 14 days after the last AMPH treatment (2mg/kg×1×14 days), in the forced swim test. In this test, the efficacy of memantine was compared to that of tricyclic antidepressant imipramine (10; 20; 30mg/kg, i.p.). Our study indicated that withdrawal from a binge regimen of AMPH impaired recognition memory. This effect was attenuated by administration of memantine at both 72h and 7 days of withdrawal. Moreover, prior administration of scopolamine, but not MK-801, decreased the memantine-induced recognition memory improvement. In addition, memantine reversed the AMPH-induced depressive-like behavior in the forced swim test in rats. The antidepressant-like effects of memantine were stronger than those of imipramine. Our study indicates that memantine constitutes a useful approach towards preventing cognitive deficits induced by withdrawal from an AMPH binge regimen and by depressive-like behavior during AMPH abstinence. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Software for rapid time dependent ChIP-sequencing analysis (TDCA).

PubMed

Myschyshyn, Mike; Farren-Dai, Marco; Chuang, Tien-Jui; Vocadlo, David

2017-11-25

Chromatin immunoprecipitation followed by DNA sequencing (ChIP-seq) and associated methods are widely used to define the genome wide distribution of chromatin associated proteins, post-translational epigenetic marks, and modifications found on DNA bases. An area of emerging interest is to study time dependent changes in the distribution of such proteins and marks by using serial ChIP-seq experiments performed in a time resolved manner. Despite such time resolved studies becoming increasingly common, software to facilitate analysis of such data in a robust automated manner is limited. We have designed software called Time-Dependent ChIP-Sequencing Analyser (TDCA), which is the first program to automate analysis of time-dependent ChIP-seq data by fitting to sigmoidal curves. We provide users with guidance for experimental design of TDCA for modeling of time course (TC) ChIP-seq data using two simulated data sets. Furthermore, we demonstrate that this fitting strategy is widely applicable by showing that automated analysis of three previously published TC data sets accurately recapitulates key findings reported in these studies. Using each of these data sets, we highlight how biologically relevant findings can be readily obtained by exploiting TDCA to yield intuitive parameters that describe behavior at either a single locus or sets of loci. TDCA enables customizable analysis of user input aligned DNA sequencing data, coupled with graphical outputs in the form of publication-ready figures that describe behavior at either individual loci or sets of loci sharing common traits defined by the user. TDCA accepts sequencing data as standard binary alignment map (BAM) files and loci of interest in browser extensible data (BED) file format. TDCA accurately models the number of sequencing reads, or coverage, at loci from TC ChIP-seq studies or conceptually related TC sequencing experiments. TC experiments are reduced to intuitive parametric values that facilitate biologically relevant data analysis, and the uncovering of variations in the time-dependent behavior of chromatin. TDCA automates the analysis of TC ChIP-seq experiments, permitting researchers to easily obtain raw and modeled data for specific loci or groups of loci with similar behavior while also enhancing consistency of data analysis of TC data within the genomics field.

Effects of COMT inhibitors on striatal dopamine metabolism: A microdialysis study

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kaakkola, S.; Wurtman, R. J.

1992-01-01

In vivo microdialysis was used to examine the effect of two new catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) inhibitors, Ro 40-7592 and OR-611, on extracellular levels of dopamine, dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC), homovanillic acid (HVA), and 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA) in rat striatum. The interactions of the COMT inhibitors with nomifensine, clorgyline, and deprenyl were also studied. Ro 40-7592 (3-30 mg/kg. i.p.) decreased dose-dependently the efflux of HVA, increased that of DOPAC, and tended to increase that of dopamine. Higher doses of OR-611 (30-100 mg/kg, i.p.) also decreased the dialysate level of HVA, increased that of DOPAC, and tended to increase that of dopamine. Ro 40-7592 was about ten-fold as potent as OR-611. Neither of the COMT inhibitors changed dialysate levels of 6-HIAA. An OR-611 dose of 10 mg/kg i.p. had no significant effect, in contrast to Ro 40-7592, on any of the parameters studied; this dose was thus used to differentiate between the effects of central and peripheral COMT inhibition. Both nomifensine (15 mg/kg, i.p.) and clorgyline (4 mg/kg, i.p.) alone elevated extracellular dopamine levels, and lowered those of DOPAC and HVA, though there were quantitative and temporal differences between the drugs. L-deprenyl (1 mg/kg, i.p.) alone had no significant effect on any of the compounds measured. Ro 40-7592 (10 mg/kg, i.p.) potentiated the effect of nomifensine on dopamine efflux, and it tended to increase clorgyline-induced dopamine efflux. DOPAC levels in dialysates were significantly increased by combinations of Ro 40-7592 and nomifensine or clorgyline, whereas HVA remained about as low as they were after Ro 40-7592 alone. Ro 40-7592 had no significant interactions with L-deprenyl. OR-611 (10 mg/kg, i.p.) did not modify the effects on dopamine metabolism of nomifensine, clorgyline, or L-deprenyl. These data show that Ro 40-7592 is a potent centrally active COMT inhibitor, whereas OR-611 is principally a peripherally active inhibitor. Use of drugs which inhibit brain COMT can considerably modify dopamine metabolism. COMT inhibitors may be of clinical significance in treating Parkinson's disease.

Effects of generation time on spray aerosol transport and deposition in models of the mouth-throat geometry.

PubMed

Worth Longest, P; Hindle, Michael; Das Choudhuri, Suparna

2009-06-01

For most newly developed spray aerosol inhalers, the generation time is a potentially important variable that can be fully controlled. The objective of this study was to determine the effects of spray aerosol generation time on transport and deposition in a standard induction port (IP) and more realistic mouth-throat (MT) geometry. Capillary aerosol generation (CAG) was selected as a representative system in which spray momentum was expected to significantly impact deposition. Sectional and total depositions in the IP and MT geometries were assessed at a constant CAG flow rate of 25 mg/sec for aerosol generation times of 1, 2, and 4 sec using both in vitro experiments and a previously developed computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model. Both the in vitro and numerical results indicated that extending the generation time of the spray aerosol, delivered at a constant mass flow rate, significantly reduced deposition in the IP and more realistic MT geometry. Specifically, increasing the generation time of the CAG system from 1 to 4 sec reduced the deposition fraction in the IP and MT geometries by approximately 60 and 33%, respectively. Furthermore, the CFD predictions of deposition fraction were found to be in good agreement with the in vitro results for all times considered in both the IP and MT geometries. The numerical results indicated that the reduction in deposition fraction over time was associated with temporal dissipation of what was termed the spray aerosol "burst effect." Based on these results, increasing the spray aerosol generation time, at a constant mass flow rate, may be an effective strategy for reducing deposition in the standard IP and in more realistic MT geometries.

Improved Discovery of Molecular Interactions in Genome-Scale Data with Adaptive Model-Based Normalization

PubMed Central

Brown, Patrick O.

2013-01-01

Background High throughput molecular-interaction studies using immunoprecipitations (IP) or affinity purifications are powerful and widely used in biology research. One of many important applications of this method is to identify the set of RNAs that interact with a particular RNA-binding protein (RBP). Here, the unique statistical challenge presented is to delineate a specific set of RNAs that are enriched in one sample relative to another, typically a specific IP compared to a non-specific control to model background. The choice of normalization procedure critically impacts the number of RNAs that will be identified as interacting with an RBP at a given significance threshold – yet existing normalization methods make assumptions that are often fundamentally inaccurate when applied to IP enrichment data. Methods In this paper, we present a new normalization methodology that is specifically designed for identifying enriched RNA or DNA sequences in an IP. The normalization (called adaptive or AD normalization) uses a basic model of the IP experiment and is not a variant of mean, quantile, or other methodology previously proposed. The approach is evaluated statistically and tested with simulated and empirical data. Results and Conclusions The adaptive (AD) normalization method results in a greatly increased range in the number of enriched RNAs identified, fewer false positives, and overall better concordance with independent biological evidence, for the RBPs we analyzed, compared to median normalization. The approach is also applicable to the study of pairwise RNA, DNA and protein interactions such as the analysis of transcription factors via chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) or any other experiments where samples from two conditions, one of which contains an enriched subset of the other, are studied. PMID:23349766

Improving the accuracy of blood pressure measurement: the influence of the European Society of Hypertension International Protocol (ESH-IP) for the validation of blood pressure measuring devices and future perspectives.

PubMed

Stergiou, George S; Asmar, Roland; Myers, Martin; Palatini, Paolo; Parati, Gianfranco; Shennan, Andrew; Wang, Jiguang; O'Brien, Eoin

2018-03-01

The European Society of Hypertension (ESH) International Protocol (ESH-IP) for the validation of blood pressure (BP) measuring devices was published in 2002, with the main objective of simplifying the validation procedures, so that more BP monitors would be subjected to independent validation. This article provides an overview of the international impact of the ESH-IP and of the lessons learned from its use, to be able to justify further developments in validation protocols. A review of published (PubMed) validation studies from 2002 to 2017 was performed. One hundred and seventy-seven validation studies using the ESH-IP, 59 using the British Hypertension Society protocol, 46 using the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI) standard and 23 using the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) standard were identified. Lists of validated office-clinic, home and ambulatory BP monitors are provided. Of the ESH-IP studies, 93% tested oscillometric devices, 80% upper arm, 71% home, 25% office and 7% ambulatory monitors (some had more than one function). The original goal of the ESH-IP has been fulfilled in that in the last decade the number of published validation studies has more than doubled. It is now recognized that the provision of accurate devices would be best served by having a universal protocol. An international initiative has been put in place by AAMI, ESH and ISO experts aiming to reach consensus for a universal validation protocol to be accepted worldwide, which will allow a more thorough evaluation of the accuracy and performance of future BP monitors.

The route and timing of hydrogen sulfide therapy critically impacts intestinal recovery following ischemia and reperfusion injury.

PubMed

Jensen, Amanda R; Drucker, Natalie A; Te Winkel, Jan P; Ferkowicz, Michael J; Markel, Troy A

2018-06-01

Hydrogen sulfide (H 2 S) has many beneficial properties and may serve as a novel treatment in patients suffering from intestinal ischemia-reperfusion injury (I/R). The purpose of this study was to examine the method of delivery and timing of administration of H 2 S for intestinal therapy during ischemic injury. We hypothesized that 1) route of administration of hydrogen sulfide would impact intestinal recovery following acute mesenteric ischemia and 2) preischemic H 2 S conditioning using the optimal mode of administration as determined above would provide superior protection compared to postischemic application. Male C57BL/6J mice underwent intestinal ischemia by temporary occlusion of the superior mesenteric artery. Following ischemia, animals were treated according to one of the following (N=6 per group): intraperitoneal or intravenous injection of GYY4137 (H 2 S-releasing donor, 50mg/kg in PBS), vehicle, inhalation of oxygen only, inhalation of 80ppm hydrogen sulfide gas. Following 24-h recovery, perfusion was assessed via laser Doppler imaging, and animals were euthanized. Perfusion and histology data were assessed, and terminal ileum samples were analyzed for cytokine production following ischemia. Once the optimal route of administration was determined, preischemic conditioning with H 2 S was undertaken using that route of administration. All data were analyzed using Mann-Whitney. P-values <0.05 were significant. Mesenteric perfusion following intestinal I/R was superior in mice treated with intraperitoneal (IP) GYY4137 (IP vehicle: 25.6±6.0 vs. IP GYY4137: 79.7±15.1; p=0.02) or intravenous (IV) GYY4137 (IV vehicle: 36.3±5.9 vs. IV GYY4137: 100.7±34.0; p=0.03). This benefit was not observed with inhaled H 2 S gas (O2 vehicle: 66.6±11.4 vs. H 2 S gas: 81.8±6.0; p=0.31). However, histological architecture was only preserved with intraperitoneal administration of GYY4127 (IP vehicle: 3.4±0.4 vs. IP GYY4137: 2±0.3; p=0.02). Additionally, IP GYY4137 allowed for significant attenuation of inflammatory chemokine production of IL-6, IP-10 and MIP-2. We then analyzed whether there was a difference between pre- and postischemic administration of IP GYY4137. We found that preconditioning of animals with intraperitoneal GYY4137 only added minor improvements in outcomes compared to postischemic application. Therapeutic benefits of H 2 S are superior with intraperitoneal application of an H 2 S donor compared to other administration routes. Additionally, while intraperitoneal treatment in both the pre- and postischemic period is beneficial, preischemic application of an H 2 S donor was found to be slightly better. Further studies are needed to examine long term outcomes and further mechanisms of action prior to widespread clinical application. Basic science. N/A. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Investigations of a Cretaceous limestone with spectral induced polarization and scanning electron microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Johansson, Sara; Sparrenbom, Charlotte; Fiandaca, Gianluca; Lindskog, Anders; Olsson, Per-Ivar; Dahlin, Torleif; Rosqvist, Håkan

2017-02-01

Characterization of varying bedrock properties is a common need in various contexts, ranging from large infrastructure pre-investigations to environmental protection. A direct current resistivity and time domain induced polarization (IP) survey aiming to characterize properties of a Cretaceous limestone was carried out in the Kristianstad basin, Sweden. The time domain IP data was processed with a recently developed method in order to suppress noise from the challenging urban setting in the survey area. The processing also enabled extraction of early decay times resulting in broader spectra of the time decays and inversion for Cole-Cole parameters. The aims of this study is to investigate if large-scale geoelectrical variations as well as small-scale structural and compositional variations exist within the Kristianstad limestone, and to evaluate the usefulness of Cole-Cole inverted IP data in early time ranges for bedrock characterization. The inverted sections showed variations within the limestone that could be caused by variations in texture and composition. Samples from a deep drilling in the Kristianstad basin were investigated with scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, and the results showed that varying amounts of pyrite, glauconite and clay matrix were present at different levels in the limestone. The local high IP anomalies in the limestone could be caused by these minerals otherwise the IP responses were generally weak. There were also differences in the texture of the limestone at different levels, governed by fossil shapes and composition, proportions of calcareous cement and matrix as well as amount of silicate grains. Textural variations may have implications on the variation in Cole-Cole relaxation time and frequency factor. However, more research is needed in order to directly connect microgeometrical properties in limestone to spectral IP responses. The results from this study show that it is possible to recover useable spectral information from early decay times. We also show that under certain conditions (e.g. relatively short relaxation times in the subsurface), it is possible to extract spectral information from time domain IP data measured with on-off times as short as 1 s.

49 CFR 173.427 - Transport requirements for low specific activity (LSA) Class 7 (radioactive) materials and...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... package (IP-1, IP-2 or IP-3; § 173.411), subject to the limitations of Table 6; (2) In a DOT Specification... use shipment 1. LSA-I: Solid IP-1 IP-1 Liquid IP-1 IP-2 2. LSA-II: Solid IP-2 IP-2 Liquid and gas IP-2 IP-3 3. LSA-III IP-2 IP-3 4. SCO-I IP-1 IP-1 5. SCO-II IP-2 IP-2 [69 FR 3676, Jan. 26, 2004; 69 FR...

49 CFR 173.427 - Transport requirements for low specific activity (LSA) Class 7 (radioactive) materials and...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... package (IP-1, IP-2 or IP-3; § 173.411), subject to the limitations of Table 6; (2) In a DOT Specification... use shipment 1. LSA-I: Solid IP-1 IP-1 Liquid IP-1 IP-2 2. LSA-II: Solid IP-2 IP-2 Liquid and gas IP-2 IP-3 3. LSA-III IP-2 IP-3 4. SCO-I IP-1 IP-1 5. SCO-II IP-2 IP-2 [69 FR 3676, Jan. 26, 2004; 69 FR...

Effect of Helichrysum plicatum DC. subsp. plicatum ethanol extract on gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity in rats

PubMed Central

Apaydin Yildirim, Betul; Kordali, Saban; Terim Kapakin, Kubra Asena; Yildirim, Fatih; Aktas Senocak, Esra; Altun, Serdar

2017-01-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate the possible therapeutic or protective effects of Helichrysum plicatum DC. subsp. plicatum ethanol extract (HPE) against gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity. Thirty-six Sprague Dawley male rats weighing between 200 and 250 g were used as live material. They were formed into six groups containing 6 rats each and were allowed to adapt to laboratory conditions for 7 d. Group I: control, 5% DMSO intraperitoneal (i.p.); Group II: HPE 100 mg/(kg·d) i.p.; Group III: HPE 200 mg/(kg·d) i.p.; Group IV: gentamicin as 80 mg/(kg·d) i.p.; Group V: gentamicin as 80 mg/(kg·d) i.p.+HPE 100 mg/(kg·d) i.p.; and Group VI: gentamicin as 80 mg/(kg·d) i.p.+HPE 200 mg/(kg·d) i.p. for 8 d. Following treatment, serum, liver, and kidney tissues were used to assess blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine, enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants, and lipid peroxidation. Gentamicin significantly increased serum BUN, creatinin, and liver and kidney levels of malondialdehyde (MDA). It also decreased the activity of catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and superoxide dismutase (SOD). Treatment with the HPE 100 mg/kg reversed gentamicin-induced alterations as evidenced by decreased serum BUN and creatinin, liver and kidney oxidant marker, and tubular necrosis as well as by an increase in antioxidant enzymes. It was found that HPE 200 mg/kg significantly increased liver and kidney tissue MDA levels in nephrotoxicity in rats. As a result, these findings support the proposition that HPE in 100 mg/kg dose demonstrates in the kidney and liver as free radicals and scavenger to prevent the toxic effects of gentamicin in both the biochemical and histopathology parameters. PMID:28585426

Fluorescence Fluctuations and Equivalence Classes of Ca 2+ Imaging Experiments

PubMed Central

Piegari, Estefanía; Lopez, Lucía; Perez Ipiña, Emiliano; Ponce Dawson, Silvina

2014-01-01

release into the cytosol through inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors (IP3Rs) plays a relevant role in numerous physiological processes. IP3R-mediated signals involve -induced -release (CICR) whereby release through one open IP3R induces the opening of other channels. IP3Rs are apparently organized in clusters. The signals can remain localized (i.e., puffs) if CICR is limited to one cluster or become waves that propagate between clusters. puffs are the building blocks of waves. Thus, there is great interest in determining puff properties, especially in view of the current controversy on the spatial distribution of activatable IP3Rs. puffs have been observed in intact cells with optical techniques proving that they are intrinsically stochastic. Obtaining a correct picture of their dynamics then entails being able to detect the whole range of puff sizes. puffs are observed using visible single-wavelength dyes, slow exogenous buffers (e.g., EGTA) to disrupt inter-cluster CICR and UV-photolyzable caged IP3. Single-wavelength dyes increase their fluorescence upon calcium binding producing images that are strongly dependent on their kinetic, transport and photophysical properties. Determining the artifacts that the imaging setting introduces is particularly relevant when trying to analyze the smallest signals. In this paper we introduce a method to estimate the expected signal-to-noise ratio of imaging experiments that use single-wavelength dyes. The method is based on the Number and Brightness technique. It involves the performance of a series of experiments and their subsequent analysis in terms of a fluorescence fluctuation model with which the model parameters are quantified. Using the model, the expected signal-to-noise ratio is then computed. Equivalence classes between different experimental conditions that produce images with similar signal-to-noise ratios can then be established. The method may also be used to estimate the smallest signals that can reliably be observed with each setting. PMID:24776736

POSSIBLE HYPOCHOLESTEROLEMIC EFFECT OF GINGER AND ROSEMARY OILS IN RATS.

PubMed

Eissa, Fatma A; Choudhry, Hani; Abdulaal, Wesam H; Baothman, Othman A; Zeyadi, Mustafa; Moselhy, Said S; Zamzami, Mazin A

2017-01-01

Hypercholesterolemia is a major risk factor for development of atherosclerosis. The present study was conducted to evaluate the potential effect of ginger oil alone or combined with rosemary oil as hypocholesterolemic agent in rats fed high fat diet. Healthy female albino rats (n=80) weighting about (150-180 g) were included in this study divided into two equal groups; Group (I): were fed on the basal diet. Group (I) were divided into 4 subgroups each 10: Group (Ia): negative control. Group (Ib): Rats received i.p 2.5 g/Kg b.w of ginger oil. Group (Ic): rats received i.p 2.5 g/Kg b.w of rosemary oil. Group (Id): Rats received i.p 5 g/Kg b.w mixture of ginger oil and rosemary oil (1:1). The second main groups; Group (II): high fat diet (HFD) were fed on the basal diet plus cholesterol (1%), bile salt (0.25%) and animal fat (15%) to induce hypercholesterolemia for six weeks. Group (II) was divided into 4subgroups: Group (IIa): HFD. Group (IIb): HFD were treated with i.p 2.5 g/Kg b.w ginger oil. Group (IIc): (n=10) HFD were treated with i.p 2.5 g/Kg b.w rosemary oil. Group (IId): (n=10) HFD were treated with i.p 5 g/Kg b.w mixture of oils. It was found that HFD rats showed a significant elevation in glucose, total cholesterol, triglyceride, GOT, GPT, alkaline phosphatase and a reduction in serum HDL-c compared with negative control. Treatment with ginger oil, rosemary oil and their mixture modulated the elevation of these parameters. Histopathological examination of the liver tissue of HFD rats showed a lipid deposition and macrophage infiltration and stenosis of hepatic vein. Treatment with mixture oils preserves normal structure of liver. It was concluded that, hypocholesterolemic effect was related to the active oil content as Rosemary oil contain - α-pinene, Camphor, cineole, borneol and Ginger oil contain Linalool, Terpineol, Borneol, Eucalyptol.

Infiltrating T cells promote renal cell carcinoma (RCC) progression via altering the estrogen receptor β-DAB2IP signals.

PubMed

Yeh, Chiuan-Ren; Ou, Zheng-Yu; Xiao, Guang-Qian; Guancial, Elizabeth; Yeh, Shuyuan

2015-12-29

Previous studies indicated the T cells, one of the most common types of immune cells existing in the microenvironment of renal cell carcinoma (RCC), may influence the progression of RCC. The potential linkage of T cells and the estrogen receptor beta (ERβ), a key player to impact RCC progression, however, remains unclear. Our results demonstrate that RCC cells can recruit more T cells than non-malignant kidney cells. Using an in vitro matrigel invasion system, we found infiltrating T cells could promote RCC cells invasion via increasing ERβ expression and transcriptional activity. Mechanism dissection suggested that co-culturing T cells with RCC cells released more T cell attraction factors, including IFN-γ, CCL3 and CCL5, suggesting a positive regulatory feed-back mechanism. Meanwhile, infiltrating T cells may also promote RCC cell invasion via increased ERβ and decreased DAB2IP expressions, and knocking down DAB2IP can then reverse the T cells-promoted RCC cell invasion. Together, our results suggest that infiltrating T cells may promote RCC cell invasion via increasing the RCC cell ERβ expression to inhibit the tumor suppressor DAB2IP signals. Further mechanism dissection showed that co-culturing T cells with RCC cells could produce more IGF-1 and FGF-7, which may enhance the ERβ transcriptional activity. The newly identified relationship between infiltrating T cells/ERβ/DAB2IP signals may provide a novel therapeutic target in the development of agents against RCC.

The effectiveness of individual placement and support for people with mental illness new on social benefits: a study protocol

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background In Switzerland, people with a severe mental illness and unable to work receive disability benefits (‘IV-pension’). Once they are granted these benefits, the chances to regain competitive employment are usually small. However, previous studies have shown that individual placement and support (IPS) supports a successful reintegration into competitive employment. This study focuses on the integration of newly appointed IV-pensioners, who have received an IV-pension for less than a year. Method/design The present pilot project ZHEPP (Zürcher Eingliederungs-Pilot Projekt; engl.: Zurich integration pilot project) is a randomized controlled trial (RCT). The 250 participants will be randomized to either the intervention or the control group. The intervention group receives support of a job coach according to the approach of IPS. Participants in the control group do not receive IPS support. Participation takes a total of two years for each participant. Each group is interviewed every six months (T0-T4). A two-factor analysis of variance will be conducted with the two factors group (intervention versus control group) and outcome (employment yes/no). The main criterion of the two-factor analysis will be the number of competitive employment contracts in each group. Discussion This study will focus on the impact of IPS on new IV-pensioners and aims to identify predictors for a successful integration. Furthermore, we will examine the effect of IPS on stigma variables and recovery orientation. Trial registration ISRCTN54951166 PMID:23883137

Optimal Equilibria and Plasma Parameter Evolutions for the Ignitor Experiment*

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Airoldi, A.; Cenacchi, G.; Coppi, B.

2011-10-01

In view of the operation of the Ignitor machine in both the H and the I-regime, optimal equilibrium configurations that can sustain plasma currents Ip up to 10 MA with a double X-point have been identified. In fact, the emergence of the I-regime in double X-point configurations has not been observed experimentally yet. The characteristics of the magnetic equilibrium configurations that can be produced play a crucial role in the performance of the machine. Therefore, particular care has been devoted to the study of plasma equilibria relevant to the main phases of the discharge evolution. A series of simulations to be utilized for the control of the relevant (sub-ignited) plasma parameters has been carried out using the JETTO transport code considering different values of the plasma current and, correspondingly, of the magnetic field. Special attention has been devoted to non-igniting experiments with Ip = 5 MA and BT = 8 T, where BT is the toroidal magnetic field, as they can be performed with much better duty cycles and longer duration than experiments aimed at reaching the most extreme plasma parameters and ignition in particular. The results of the relevant analyses with a discussion of the adopted transport coefficients is presented. * Sponsored in part by ENEA and the U.S. DOE.

Impact of an interprofessional shared decision-making and goal-setting decision aid for patients with diabetes on decisional conflict--study protocol for a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Yu, Catherine H; Ivers, Noah M; Stacey, Dawn; Rezmovitz, Jeremy; Telner, Deanna; Thorpe, Kevin; Hall, Susan; Settino, Marc; Kaplan, David M; Coons, Michael; Sodhi, Sumeet; Sale, Joanna; Straus, Sharon E

2015-06-27

Competing health concerns present real obstacles to people living with diabetes and other chronic diseases as well as to their primary care providers. Guideline implementation interventions rarely acknowledge this, leaving both patients and providers feeling overwhelmed by the volume of recommended actions. Interprofessional (IP) shared decision-making (SDM) with the use of decision aids may help to set treatment priorities. We developed an evidence-based SDM intervention for patients with diabetes and other conditions that was framed by the IP-SDM model and followed a user-centered approach. Our objective in the present study is to pilot an IP-SDM and goal-setting toolkit following the Knowledge-to-Action Framework to assess (1) intervention fidelity and the feasibility of conducting a larger trial and (2) impact on decisional conflict, diabetes distress, health-related quality of life and patient assessment of chronic illness care. A two-step, parallel-group, clustered randomized controlled trial (RCT) will be conducted, with the primary goal being to assess intervention fidelity and the feasibility of conducting a larger RCT. The first step is a provider-directed implementation only; the second (after a 6-month delay) involves both provider- and patient-directed implementation. Half of the clusters will be assigned to receive the IP-SDM toolkit, and the other will be assigned to be mailed a diabetes guidelines summary. Individual interviews with patients, their family members and health care providers will be conducted upon trial completion to explore toolkit use. A secondary purpose of this trial is to gather estimates of the toolkit's impact on decisional conflict. Secondary outcomes include diabetes distress, quality of life and chronic illness care, which will be assessed on the basis of patient-completed questionnaires of validated scales at baseline and at 6 and 12 months. Multilevel hierarchical regression models will be used to account for the clustered nature of the data. An individualized approach to patients with multiple chronic conditions using SDM and goal setting is a desirable strategy for achieving guideline-concordant treatment in a patient-centered fashion. Our pilot trial will provide insights regarding strategies for the routine implementation of such interventions in clinical practice, and it will offer an assessment of the impact of this approach. Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT02379078. Date of Registration: 11 February 2015.

Meteorite Impact "Earthquake" Features (Rock Liquefaction, Surface Wave Deformations, Seismites) from Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) and Geoelectric Complex Resistivity/Induced Polarization (IP) Measurements, Chiemgau (Alpine Foreland, Southeast Germany)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ernstson, K.; Poßekel, J.

2017-12-01

Densely spaced GPR and complex resistivity measurements on a 30,000 square meters site in a region of enigmatic sinkhole occurrences in unconsolidated Quaternary sediments have featured unexpected and highlighting results from both a meteorite impact research and an engineering geology point of view. The GPR measurements and a complex resistivity/IP electrical imaging revealed extended subrosion depressions related with a uniformly but in various degrees of intensity deformed loamy and gravelly ground down to at least 10 m depth. Two principle observations could be made from both the GPR high-resolution measurements and the more integrating resistivity and IP soundings with both petrophysical evidences in good complement. Subrosion can be shown to be the result of prominent sandy-gravelly intrusions and extrusions typical of rock liquefaction processes well known to occur during strong earthquakes. Funnel-shaped structures with diameters up to 25 m near the surface and reaching down to the floating ground water level at 10 m depth were measured. GPR radargrams could trace prominent gravelly-material transport bottom-up within the funnels. Seen in both GPR tomography and resistivity/IP sections more or less the whole investigated area is overprinted by wavy deformations of the unconsolidated sediments with wavelengths of the order of 5 - 10 m and amplitudes up to half a meter, likewise down to 10 m depth. Substantial earthquakes are not known in this region. Hence, the observed heavy underground disorder is considered the result of the prominent earthquake shattering that must have occurred during the Holocene (Bronze Age/Celtic era) Chiemgau meteorite impact event that produced a 60 km x 30 km sized crater strewn field directly hosting the investigated site. Depending on depth and size of floating aquifers local concentrations of rock liquefaction and seismic surface waves (probably LOVE waves) to produce the wavy deformations could develop, when the big disintegrated meteoroid (a loosely bound asteroid or a comet of roughly estimated 1 km size) hit the ground. The observations in the Chiemgau area emphasize that studied paleoliquefaction features and wavy deformations (e.g. seismites) need not necessarily have originated solely from paleoseismicity but can provide a recognizable regional impact signature.

Protective effect of Tribulus terrestris fruit extract on cerulein-induced acute pancreatitis in mice.

PubMed

Borran, Mina; Minaiyan, Mohsen; Zolfaghari, Behzad; Mahzouni, Parvin

2017-01-01

Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antimicrobial activities of Tribulus terrestris ( T. terrestris ) could be helpful in the treatment of acute pancreatitis; thus, this study was designed to investigate the effects of T. terrestris on cerulein-induced acute pancreatitis in mice. Three doses (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg) of T. terrestris hydro-alcoholic extract were administered both orally (60 minutes before pancreatitis induction, p.o.) and intra-peritoneally (30 minutes before pancreatitis induction, i.p.) to different groups of mice (n=6). Pancreatitis was induced by five injections (i.p.) of cerulein 50μg/kg body weight with 1 hr intervals. Animals were euthanized 5 hr after the last injection of cerulein and tissue injures were assessed biochemically and pathologically. T. terrestris extract 200 and 400mg/kg (p.o.) and T. terrestris extract 400 mg/kg (i.p.) reduced pancreatic tissue myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity and serum amylase and lipase levels and alleviated histological parameters. These data suggest that T. terrestris hydro-alcoholic extract was effective in protecting against experimental acute pancreatitis and possibly the efficacy depends on dose and route of administration.

Agmatine protection against chlorpromazine-induced forebrain cortex injury in rats.

PubMed

Dejanovic, Bratislav; Stevanovic, Ivana; Ninkovic, Milica; Stojanovic, Ivana; Lavrnja, Irena; Radicevic, Tatjana; Pavlovic, Milos

2016-03-01

This study was conducted to investigate whether agmatine (AGM) provides protection against oxidative stress induced by treatment with chlorpromazine (CPZ) in Wistar rats. In addition, the role of reactive oxygen species and efficiency of antioxidant protection in the brain homogenates of forebrain cortexes prepared 48 h after treatment were investigated. Chlorpromazine was applied intraperitoneally (i.p.) in single dose of 38.7 mg/kg body weight (BW) The second group was treated with both CPZ and AGM (75 mg/kg BW). The control group was treated with 0.9% saline solution in the same manner. All tested compounds were administered i.p. in a single dose. Rats were sacrificed by decapitation 48 h after treatment Treatment with AGM significantly attenuated the oxidative stress parameters and restored antioxidant capacity in the forebrain cortex. The data indicated that i.p. administered AGM exerted antioxidant action in CPZ-treated animals. Moreover, reactive astrocytes and microglia may contribute to secondary nerve-cell damage and participate in the balance of destructive vs. protective actions involved in the pathogenesis after poisoning.

Machine Learning Approach to Automated Quality Identification of Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell Colony Images.

PubMed

Joutsijoki, Henry; Haponen, Markus; Rasku, Jyrki; Aalto-Setälä, Katriina; Juhola, Martti

2016-01-01

The focus of this research is on automated identification of the quality of human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) colony images. iPS cell technology is a contemporary method by which the patient's cells are reprogrammed back to stem cells and are differentiated to any cell type wanted. iPS cell technology will be used in future to patient specific drug screening, disease modeling, and tissue repairing, for instance. However, there are technical challenges before iPS cell technology can be used in practice and one of them is quality control of growing iPSC colonies which is currently done manually but is unfeasible solution in large-scale cultures. The monitoring problem returns to image analysis and classification problem. In this paper, we tackle this problem using machine learning methods such as multiclass Support Vector Machines and several baseline methods together with Scaled Invariant Feature Transformation based features. We perform over 80 test arrangements and do a thorough parameter value search. The best accuracy (62.4%) for classification was obtained by using a k-NN classifier showing improved accuracy compared to earlier studies.

Therapeutic proteasome inhibition in experimental acute pancreatitis

PubMed Central

Letoha, Tamás; Fehér, Liliána Z; Pecze, László; Somlai, Csaba; Varga, Ilona; Kaszaki, József; Tóth, Gábor; Vizler, Csaba; Tiszlavicz, László; Takács, Tamás

2007-01-01

AIM: To establish the therapeutic potential of proteasome inhibition, we examined the therapeutic effects of MG132 (Z-Leu-Leu-Leu-aldehyde) in an experimental model of acute pancreatitis. METHODS: Pancreatitis was induced in rats by two hourly intraperitoneal (ip) injections of cholecystokinin octapeptide (CCK; 2 × 100 μg/kg) and the proteasome inhibitor MG132 (10 mg/kg ip) was administered 30 min after the second CCK injection. Animals were sacrificed 4 h after the first injection of CCK. RESULTS: Administering the proteasome inhibitor MG132 (at a dose of 10 mg/kg, ip) 90 min after the onset of pancreatic inflammation induced the expression of cell-protective 72 kDa heat shock protein (HSP72) and decreased DNA-binding of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB). Furthermore MG132 treatment resulted in milder inflammatory response and cellular damage, as revealed by improved laboratory and histological parameters of pancreatitis and associated oxidative stress. CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest that proteasome inhibition might be beneficial not only for the prevention, but also for the therapy of acute pancreatitis. PMID:17724800

Reaction Rate of Small Diffusing Molecules on a Cylindrical Membrane

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Straube, Ronny; Ward, Michael J.; Falcke, Martin

2007-10-01

Biomembranes consist of a lipid bi-layer into which proteins are embedded to fulfill numerous tasks in localized regions of the membrane. Often, the proteins have to reach these regions by simple diffusion. Motivated by the observation that IP3 receptor channels (IP3R) form clusters on the surface of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) during ATP-induced calcium release, the reaction rate of small diffusing molecules on a cylindrical membrane is calculated based on the Smoluchowski approach. In this way, the cylindrical topology of the tubular ER is explicitly taken into account. The problem can be reduced to the solution of the diffusion equation on a finite cylindrical surface containing a small absorbing hole. The solution is constructed by matching appropriate `inner' and `outer' asymptotic expansions. The asymptotic results are compared with those from numerical simulations and excellent agreement is obtained. For realistic parameter sets, we find reaction rates in the range of experimentally measured clustering rates of IP3R. This supports the idea that clusters are formed by a purely diffusion limited process.

Agmatine protection against chlorpromazine-induced forebrain cortex injury in rats

PubMed Central

Stevanovic, Ivana; Ninkovic, Milica; Stojanovic, Ivana; Lavrnja, Irena; Radicevic, Tatjana; Pavlovic, Milos

2016-01-01

This study was conducted to investigate whether agmatine (AGM) provides protection against oxidative stress induced by treatment with chlorpromazine (CPZ) in Wistar rats. In addition, the role of reactive oxygen species and efficiency of antioxidant protection in the brain homogenates of forebrain cortexes prepared 48 h after treatment were investigated. Chlorpromazine was applied intraperitoneally (i.p.) in single dose of 38.7 mg/kg body weight (BW) The second group was treated with both CPZ and AGM (75 mg/kg BW). The control group was treated with 0.9% saline solution in the same manner. All tested compounds were administered i.p. in a single dose. Rats were sacrificed by decapitation 48 h after treatment Treatment with AGM significantly attenuated the oxidative stress parameters and restored antioxidant capacity in the forebrain cortex. The data indicated that i.p. administered AGM exerted antioxidant action in CPZ-treated animals. Moreover, reactive astrocytes and microglia may contribute to secondary nerve-cell damage and participate in the balance of destructive vs. protective actions involved in the pathogenesis after poisoning. PMID:27051340

Ecologically and economically conscious design of the injected pultrusion process via multi-objective optimization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Srinivasagupta, Deepak; Kardos, John L.

2004-05-01

Injected pultrusion (IP) is an environmentally benign continuous process for low-cost manufacture of prismatic polymer composites. IP has been of recent regulatory interest as an option to achieve significant vapour emissions reduction. This work describes the design of the IP process with multiple design objectives. In our previous work (Srinivasagupta D et al 2003 J. Compos. Mater. at press), an algorithm for economic design using a validated three-dimensional physical model of the IP process was developed, subject to controllability considerations. In this work, this algorithm was used in a multi-objective optimization approach to simultaneously meet economic, quality related, and environmental objectives. The retrofit design of a bench-scale set-up was considered, and the concept of exergy loss in the process, as well as in vapour emission, was introduced. The multi-objective approach was able to determine the optimal values of the processing parameters such as heating zone temperatures and resin injection pressure, as well as the equipment specifications (die dimensions, heater, puller and pump ratings) that satisfy the various objectives in a weighted sense, and result in enhanced throughput rates. The economic objective did not coincide with the environmental objective, and a compromise became necessary. It was seen that most of the exergy loss is in the conversion of electric power into process heating. Vapour exergy loss was observed to be negligible for the most part.

Using Chromatin Immunoprecipitation in Toxicology: A Step-by-Step Guide to Increasing Efficiency, Reducing Variability, and Expanding Applications.

PubMed

McCullough, Shaun D; On, Doan M; Bowers, Emma C

2017-05-02

Histone modifications work in concert with DNA methylation to regulate cellular structure, function, and response to environmental stimuli. More than 130 unique histone modifications have been described to date, and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) allows for the exploration of their associations with the regulatory regions of target genes and other DNA/chromatin-associated proteins across the genome. Many variations of ChIP have been developed in the 30 years since its earliest version came into use, which makes it challenging for users to integrate the procedure into their research programs. Furthermore, the differences in ChIP protocols can confound efforts to increase reproducibility across studies. The streamlined ChIP procedure presented here can be readily applied to samples from a wide range of in vitro studies (cell lines and primary cells) and clinical samples (peripheral leukocytes) in toxicology. We also provide detailed guidance on the optimization of critical protocol parameters, such as chromatin fixation, fragmentation, and immunoprecipitation, to increase efficiency and improve reproducibility. Expanding toxicoepigenetic studies to more readily include histone modifications will facilitate a more comprehensive understanding of the role of the epigenome in environmental exposure effects and the integration of epigenetic data in mechanistic toxicology, adverse outcome pathways, and risk assessment. © 2017 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

AFM and SEM study of the effects of etching on IPS-Empress 2 TM dental ceramic

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Luo, X.-P.; Silikas, N.; Allaf, M.; Wilson, N. H. F.; Watts, D. C.

2001-10-01

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of increasing etching time on the surface of the new dental material, IPS-Empress 2 TM glass ceramic. Twenty one IPS-Empress 2 TM glass ceramic samples were made from IPS-Empress 2 TM ingots through lost-wax, hot-pressed ceramic fabrication technology. All samples were highly polished and cleaned ultrasonically for 5 min in acetone before and after etching with 9.6% hydrofluoric acid gel. The etching times were 0, 10, 20, 30, 60, 90 and 120 s respectively. Microstructure was analysed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) was used to evaluate the surface roughness and topography. Observations with SEM showed that etching with hydrofluoric acid resulted in preferential dissolution of glass matrix, and that partially supported crystals within the glass matrix were lost with increasing etching time. AFM measurements indicated that etching increased the surface roughness of the glass-ceramic. A simple least-squares linear regression was used to establish a relationship between surface roughness parameters ( Ra, RMS), and etching time, for which r2>0.94. This study demonstrates the benefits of combining two microscopic methods for a better understanding of the surface. SEM showed the mode of action of hydrofluoric acid on the ceramic and AFM provided valuable data regarding the extent of surface degradation relative to etching time.

How to Use FASTLANEs to Protect IP Networks

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-08-18

parameters exists in its QoS database , then determine which VRF table is assigned to the QoS request. Once an association between the requested QoS and a...Generation, 18 Oct 2002 [30] TMOK: mistvan, MPLS for Linux How-To, 2001. [31] Italy (Telecom Italia Lab S.p.A.) and UK (CCSR, University of

Internet Telephony: The Next Killer Application? (Or, How I Cut My Long-Distance Phone Bill to Nothing!).

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Learn, Larry L., Ed.

1995-01-01

Discusses the evolution of real-time telephony and broadcast applications using the Internet; resulting issues and opportunities; and future implications for regulators, Internet users, and service providers. Topics covered include bandpass, packetized voice, IP structures, class D datagrams, software, technical parameters, legal and regulatory…

BCX4430, a novel nucleoside analog, effectively treats yellow fever in a Hamster model.

PubMed

Julander, Justin G; Bantia, Shanta; Taubenheim, Brian R; Minning, Dena M; Kotian, Pravin; Morrey, John D; Smee, Donald F; Sheridan, William P; Babu, Yarlagadda S

2014-11-01

No effective antiviral therapies are currently available to treat disease after infection with yellow fever virus (YFV). A Syrian golden hamster model of yellow fever (YF) was used to characterize the effect of treatment with BCX4430, a novel adenosine nucleoside analog. Significant improvement in survival was observed after treatment with BCX4430 at 4 mg/kg of body weight per day dosed intraperitoneally (i.p.) twice daily (BID). Treatment with BCX4430 at 12.5 mg/kg/day administered i.p. BID for 7 days offered complete protection from mortality and also resulted in significant improvement of other YF disease parameters, including weight loss, serum alanine aminotransferase levels (6 days postinfection [dpi]), and viremia (4 dpi). In uninfected hamsters, BCX4430 at 200 mg/kg/day administered i.p. BID for 7 days was well tolerated and did not result in mortality or weight loss, suggesting a potentially wide therapeutic index. Treatment with BCX4430 at 12 mg/kg/day i.p. remained effective when administered once daily and for only 4 days. Moreover, BCX4430 dosed at 200 mg/kg/day i.p. BID for 7 days effectively treated YF, even when treatment was delayed up to 4 days after virus challenge, corresponding with peak viral titers in the liver and serum. BCX4430 treatment did not preclude a protective antibody response, as higher neutralizing antibody (nAb) concentrations corresponded with increasing delays of treatment initiation, and greater nAb responses resulted in the protection of animals from a secondary challenge with YFV. In summary, BCX4430 is highly active in a hamster model of YF, even when treatment is initiated at the peak of viral replication. Copyright © 2014, American Society for Microbiology. All Rights Reserved.

MOCCS: Clarifying DNA-binding motif ambiguity using ChIP-Seq data.

PubMed

Ozaki, Haruka; Iwasaki, Wataru

2016-08-01

As a key mechanism of gene regulation, transcription factors (TFs) bind to DNA by recognizing specific short sequence patterns that are called DNA-binding motifs. A single TF can accept ambiguity within its DNA-binding motifs, which comprise both canonical (typical) and non-canonical motifs. Clarification of such DNA-binding motif ambiguity is crucial for revealing gene regulatory networks and evaluating mutations in cis-regulatory elements. Although chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing (ChIP-seq) now provides abundant data on the genomic sequences to which a given TF binds, existing motif discovery methods are unable to directly answer whether a given TF can bind to a specific DNA-binding motif. Here, we report a method for clarifying the DNA-binding motif ambiguity, MOCCS. Given ChIP-Seq data of any TF, MOCCS comprehensively analyzes and describes every k-mer to which that TF binds. Analysis of simulated datasets revealed that MOCCS is applicable to various ChIP-Seq datasets, requiring only a few minutes per dataset. Application to the ENCODE ChIP-Seq datasets proved that MOCCS directly evaluates whether a given TF binds to each DNA-binding motif, even if known position weight matrix models do not provide sufficient information on DNA-binding motif ambiguity. Furthermore, users are not required to provide numerous parameters or background genomic sequence models that are typically unavailable. MOCCS is implemented in Perl and R and is freely available via https://github.com/yuifu/moccs. By complementing existing motif-discovery software, MOCCS will contribute to the basic understanding of how the genome controls diverse cellular processes via DNA-protein interactions. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Analysis of polarization introduced due to the telescope optics of the Thirty Meter Telescope

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Anche, Ramya Manjunath; Sen, Asoke Kumar; Anupama, Gadiyara Chakrapani; Sankarasubramanian, Kasiviswanathan; Skidmore, Warren

2018-01-01

An analytical model has been developed to estimate the polarization effects, such as instrumental polarization (IP), crosstalk (CT), and depolarization, due to the optics of the Thirty Meter Telescope. These are estimated for the unvignetted field-of-view and the wavelengths of interest. The model estimates an IP of 1.26% and a CT of 44% at the Nasmyth focus of the telescope at the wavelength of 0.6 μm at field angle zero with the telescope pointing to zenith. Mueller matrices have been estimated for the primary, secondary, and Nasmyth mirrors. It is found that some of the Mueller matrix elements of the primary and secondary mirrors show a fourfold azimuthal antisymmetry, which indicates that the polarization at the Cassegrain focus is negligible. At the inclined Nasmyth mirror, there is no azimuthal antisymmetry in the matrix elements, and this results in nonzero values for IP and CT, which would negatively impact the polarization measurements at the telescope focus. The averaged Mueller matrix is estimated at the Nasmyth focus at different instrument ports and various zenith angles of the telescope. The variation in the Mueller matrix elements for different coatings is also estimated. The impact of this polarization effect on the science case requirements has been discussed. This analysis will help in achieving precise requirements for future instruments with polarimetric capability.

Interobserver reliability of the 'Welfare Quality(®) Animal Welfare Assessment Protocol for Growing Pigs'.

PubMed

Czycholl, I; Kniese, C; Büttner, K; Beilage, E Grosse; Schrader, L; Krieter, J

2016-01-01

The present paper focuses on evaluating the interobserver reliability of the 'Welfare Quality(®) Animal Welfare Assessment Protocol for Growing Pigs'. The protocol for growing pigs mainly consists of a Qualitative Behaviour Assessment (QBA), direct behaviour observations (BO) carried out by instantaneous scan sampling and checks for different individual parameters (IP), e.g. presence of tail biting, wounds and bursitis. Three trained observers collected the data by performing 29 combined assessments, which were done at the same time and on the same animals; but they were carried out completely independent of each other. The findings were compared by the calculation of Spearman Rank Correlation Coefficients (RS), Intraclass Correlation Coefficients (ICC), Smallest Detectable Changes (SDC) and Limits of Agreements (LoA). There was no agreement found concerning the adjectives belonging to the QBA (e.g. active: RS: 0.50, ICC: 0.30, SDC: 0.38, LoA: -0.05 to 0.45; fearful: RS: 0.06, ICC: 0.0, SDC: 0.26, LoA: -0.20 to 0.30). In contrast, the BO showed good agreement (e.g. social behaviour: RS: 0.45, ICC: 0.50, SDC: 0.09, LoA: -0.09 to 0.03 use of enrichment material: RS: 0.75, ICC: 0.68, SDC: 0.06, LoA: -0.03 to 0.03). Overall, observers agreed well in the IP, e.g. tail biting (RS: 0.52, ICC: 0.88; SDC: 0.05, LoA: -0.01 to 0.02) and wounds (RS: 0.43, ICC: 0.59, SDC: 0.10, LoA: -0.09 to 0.10). The parameter bursitis showed great differences (RS: 0.10, ICC: 0.0, SDC: 0.35, LoA: -0.37 to 0.40), which can be explained by difficulties in the assessment when the animals moved around quickly or their legs were soiled. In conclusion, the interobserver reliability was good in the BO and most IP, but not for the parameter bursitis and the QBA.

Contrast-enhanced sonography for quantitative assessment of portal hypertension in patients with liver cirrhosis.

PubMed

Qu, En-Ze; Zhang, Ying-Cai; Li, Zhi-Yan; Liu, Yang; Wang, Jin-Rui

2014-11-01

The clinical utility of contrast-enhanced sonography in portal hypertension remains unclear. We explored the feasibility of using contrast-enhanced sonography for noninvasive assessment of portal venous pressure. Twenty healthy individuals (control group; 9 men; mean age, 46.4 years) and 18 patients with portal hypertension (15 men; mean age, 46.2 years) were enrolled in this study. The portal hypertension group included patients who underwent splenectomy and pericardial blood vessel disarticulation at our hospital from October 2010 to March 2011. One week before surgery, patients with portal hypertension underwent preoperative liver contrast-enhanced sonography. Two-dimensional, Doppler, and contrast-enhanced sonographic parameters were compared between the groups. Portal venous pressure was measured intraoperatively by portal vein puncture in the portal hypertension group, and its relationship with the other parameters was analyzed. The 2-dimensional, Doppler, and contrast-enhanced sonographic parameters differed between the groups (P < .01). Portal venous pressure was inversely correlated with the area under the portal vein/hepatic artery time-intensity curve ratio (Qp/Qa), portal vein/hepatic artery strength ratio (Ip/Ia), and portal vein/hepatic artery wash-in perfusion slope ratio (βp/βa), with correlation coefficients of -0.701, -0.625, and -0.494, respectively. Measurement of the liver contrast-enhanced sonographic parameters Qp/Qa, Ip/Ia, and βp/βa could be used as a new quantitative method for noninvasively assessing portal venous pressure. © 2014 by the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine.

Protective effect of co-administration of curcumin and sildenafil in alcohol induced neuropathy in rats.

PubMed

Kaur, Maninder; Singh, Amarjeet; Kumar, Bimlesh; Singh, Sachin Kumar; Bhatia, Amit; Gulati, Monica; Prakash, T; Bawa, Palak; Malik, Adil Hussain

2017-06-15

Neuropathic pain associated with chronic alcohol consumption is a medico-socioeconomical problem that affects both central and peripheral nervous system and has no satisfactory treatment till date. The present study was designed to investigate the protective effect of co-administration of curcumin and sildenafil on alcohol induced neuropathic pain in rats. In order to carry out this, ethanol (35% v/v, 10g/kg, p.o.) was administered for 10 weeks to induce neuropathic pain. Curcumin (30 and 60mg/kg, i.p.) and sildenafil (5 and 10mg/kg, i.p.) were given alone and in combination at their lower doses (30mg/kg curcumin and 5mg/kg, sildenafil, i.p.) to investigate the changes in thermal and mechanical hyperalgesia, allodynia and histopathological parameters. Biochemical estimations of thiobarbituric acid reactive species, glutathione and protein was also carried out to evaluate oxidative stress. The results revealed that chronic alcohol consumption for 10 weeks caused significant thermal and mechanical hyperalgesia, allodynia and increased oxidative stress. Individual administration of both the drugs at their low as well as high doses were able to improve the symptoms of alcohol induced neuropathic pain. Whereas co-administration of curcumin and sildenafil at their lower doses itself were found to significantly improve nerve functions, biochemical and histopathological parameters as compared to their individual administration. It is therefore proposed that co-administration of curcumin and sildenafil may bring new dimension towards attenuation of alcohol induced neuropathic pain affecting central as well as peripheral nervous system. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Effect of esthetic core shades on the final color of IPS Empress all-ceramic crowns.

PubMed

Azer, Shereen S; Ayash, Ghada M; Johnston, William M; Khalil, Moustafa F; Rosenstiel, Stephen F

2006-12-01

Clinically relevant assessment of all-ceramic crowns supported by esthetic composite resin foundations has not been evaluated with regard to color reproducibility. This in vitro study quantitatively evaluated the influence of different shades of composite resin foundations and resin cement on the final color of a leucite-reinforced all-ceramic material. A total of 128 disks were fabricated; 64 (20 x 1 mm) were made of all-ceramic material (IPS Empress) and 64 (20 x 4 mm) of 4 different shades composite resin (Tetric Ceram). The ceramic and composite resin disks were luted using 2 shades (A3 and Transparent) of resin cement (Variolink II). Color was measured using a colorimeter configured with a diffuse illumination/0-degree viewing geometry, and Commission Internationale de l'Eclairage (CIE) L( *)a( *)b( *) values were directly calculated. Descriptive statistical analysis was performed, and color differences (DeltaE) for the average L( *), a( *) and b( *) color parameters were calculated. Repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to compare mean values and SDs between the different color combinations (alpha=.05). The CIE L( *)a( *)b( *) color coordinate values showed no significant differences for variation in color parameters due to the effect of the different composite resin shades (P=.24) or cement shades (P=.12). The mean color difference (DeltaE) value between the groups was 0.8. Within the limitations of this study, the use of different shades for composite resin cores and resin cements presented no statistically significant effect on the final color of IPS Empress all-ceramic material.

ForwArd Search ExpeRiment at the LHC

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Feng, Jonathan L.; Galon, Iftah; Kling, Felix; Trojanowski, Sebastian

2018-02-01

New physics has traditionally been expected in the high-pT region at high-energy collider experiments. If new particles are light and weakly coupled, however, this focus may be completely misguided: light particles are typically highly concentrated within a few mrad of the beam line, allowing sensitive searches with small detectors, and even extremely weakly coupled particles may be produced in large numbers there. We propose a new experiment, forward search experiment, or FASER, which would be placed downstream of the ATLAS or CMS interaction point (IP) in the very forward region and operated concurrently there. Two representative on-axis locations are studied: a far location, 400 m from the IP and just off the beam tunnel, and a near location, just 150 m from the IP and right behind the TAN neutral particle absorber. For each location, we examine leading neutrino- and beam-induced backgrounds. As a concrete example of light, weakly coupled particles, we consider dark photons produced through light meson decay and proton bremsstrahlung. We find that even a relatively small and inexpensive cylindrical detector, with a radius of ˜10 cm and length of 5-10 m, depending on the location, can discover dark photons in a large and unprobed region of parameter space with dark photon mass mA'˜10 - 500 MeV and kinetic mixing parameter ɛ ˜10-6-10-3. FASER will clearly also be sensitive to many other forms of new physics. We conclude with a discussion of topics for further study that will be essential for understanding FASER's feasibility, optimizing its design, and realizing its discovery potential.

A comprehensive comparison of tools for differential ChIP-seq analysis

PubMed Central

Steinhauser, Sebastian; Kurzawa, Nils; Eils, Roland

2016-01-01

ChIP-seq has become a widely adopted genomic assay in recent years to determine binding sites for transcription factors or enrichments for specific histone modifications. Beside detection of enriched or bound regions, an important question is to determine differences between conditions. While this is a common analysis for gene expression, for which a large number of computational approaches have been validated, the same question for ChIP-seq is particularly challenging owing to the complexity of ChIP-seq data in terms of noisiness and variability. Many different tools have been developed and published in recent years. However, a comprehensive comparison and review of these tools is still missing. Here, we have reviewed 14 tools, which have been developed to determine differential enrichment between two conditions. They differ in their algorithmic setups, and also in the range of applicability. Hence, we have benchmarked these tools on real data sets for transcription factors and histone modifications, as well as on simulated data sets to quantitatively evaluate their performance. Overall, there is a great variety in the type of signal detected by these tools with a surprisingly low level of agreement. Depending on the type of analysis performed, the choice of method will crucially impact the outcome. PMID:26764273

Clinical applications of advanced rotational radiation therapy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nalichowski, Adrian

Purpose: With a fast adoption of emerging technologies, it is critical to fully test and understand its limits and capabilities. In this work we investigate new graphic processing unit (GPU) based treatment planning algorithm and its applications in helical tomotherapy dose delivery. We explore the limits of the system by applying it to challenging clinical cases of total marrow irradiation (TMI) and stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS). We also analyze the feasibility of alternative fractionation schemes for total body irradiation (TBI) and TMI based on reported historical data on lung dose and interstitial pneumonitis (IP) incidence rates. Methods and Materials: An anthropomorphic phantom was used to create TMI plans using the new GPU based treatment planning system and the existing CPU cluster based system. Optimization parameters were selected based on clinically used values for field width, modulation factor and pitch. Treatment plans were also created on Eclipse treatment planning system (Varian Medical Systems Inc, Palo Alto, CA) using volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) for dose delivery on IX treatment unit. A retrospective review was performed of 42 publications that reported IP rates along with lung dose, fractionation regimen, dose rate and chemotherapy. The analysis consisted of nearly thirty two hundred patients and 34 unique radiation regimens. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to determine parameters associated with IP and establish does response function. Results: The results showed very good dosimetric agreement between the GPU and CPU calculated plans. The results from SBRT study show that GPU planning system can maintain 90% target coverage while meeting all the constraints of RTOG 0631 protocol. Beam on time for Tomotherapy and flattening filter free RapidArc was much faster than for Vero or Cyberknife. Retrospective data analysis showed that lung dose and Cyclophosphomide (Cy) are both predictors of IP in TBI/TMI treatments. The dose rate was not found to be an independent risk factor for IP. The model failed to establish accurate dose response function, but the discrete data indicated a radiation dose threshold of 7.6Gy (EQD2_repair) and 120 mg/kg of Cy below which no IP cases were reported. Conclusion: The TomoTherapy GPU based dose engine is capable of calculating TMI treatment plans with plan quality nearly identical to plans calculated using the traditional CPU/cluster based system, while significantly reducing the time required for optimization and dose calculation. The new system was able to achieve more uniform dose distribution throughout the target volume and steeper dose fall off, resulting in superior OAR sparing when compared to Eclipse treatment planning system for VMAT delivery. The machine optimization parameters tested for TMI cases provide a comprehensive overview of the capabilities of the treatment planning station and associated helical delivery system. The new system also proved to be dosimetrically compatible with other leading modalities for treatments of small and complicated target volumes and was even superior when treatment delivery times were compared. These finding demonstrate that the advanced treatment planning and delivery system from TomoTherapy is well suitable for treatments of complicated cases such as TMI and SRS and it's often dosimetrically and/or logistically superior to other modalities. The new planning system can easily meet the constraint of threshold lung dose established in this study. The results presented here on the capabilities of Tomotherapy and on the identified lung dose threshold provide an opportunity to explore alternative fractionation schemes without sacrificing target coverage or lung toxicity. (Abstract shortened by ProQuest.).

Inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor 1 mutation perturbs glucose homeostasis and enhances susceptibility to diet-induced diabetes.

PubMed

Ye, Risheng; Ni, Min; Wang, Miao; Luo, Shengzhan; Zhu, Genyuan; Chow, Robert H; Lee, Amy S

2011-08-01

The inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors (IP3Rs) as ligand-gated Ca(2)(+) channels are key modulators of cellular processes. Despite advances in understanding their critical role in regulating neuronal function and cell death, how this family of proteins impact cell metabolism is just emerging. Unexpectedly, a transgenic mouse line (D2D) exhibited progressive glucose intolerance as a result of transgene insertion. Inverse PCR was used to identify the gene disruption in the D2D mice. This led to the discovery that Itpr1 is among the ten loci disrupted in chromosome 6. Itpr1 encodes for IP3R1, the most abundant IP3R isoform in mouse brain and also highly expressed in pancreatic β-cells. To study IP3R1 function in glucose metabolism, we used the Itpr1 heterozygous mutant mice, opt/+. Glucose homeostasis in male mice cohorts was examined by multiple approaches of metabolic phenotyping. Under regular diet, the opt/+ mice developed glucose intolerance but no insulin resistance. Decrease in second-phase glucose-stimulated blood insulin level was observed in opt/+ mice, accompanied by reduced β-cell mass and insulin content. Strikingly, when fed with high-fat diet, the opt/+ mice were more susceptible to the development of hyperglycemia, glucose intolerance, and insulin resistance. Collectively, our studies identify the gene Itpr1 being interrupted in the D2D mice and uncover a novel role of IP3R1 in regulation of in vivo glucose homeostasis and development of diet-induced diabetes.

Proteomics to study DNA-bound and chromatin-associated gene regulatory complexes

PubMed Central

Wierer, Michael; Mann, Matthias

2016-01-01

High-resolution mass spectrometry (MS)-based proteomics is a powerful method for the identification of soluble protein complexes and large-scale affinity purification screens can decode entire protein interaction networks. In contrast, protein complexes residing on chromatin have been much more challenging, because they are difficult to purify and often of very low abundance. However, this is changing due to recent methodological and technological advances in proteomics. Proteins interacting with chromatin marks can directly be identified by pulldowns with synthesized histone tails containing posttranslational modifications (PTMs). Similarly, pulldowns with DNA baits harbouring single nucleotide polymorphisms or DNA modifications reveal the impact of those DNA alterations on the recruitment of transcription factors. Accurate quantitation – either isotope-based or label free – unambiguously pinpoints proteins that are significantly enriched over control pulldowns. In addition, protocols that combine classical chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) methods with mass spectrometry (ChIP-MS) target gene regulatory complexes in their in-vivo context. Similar to classical ChIP, cells are crosslinked with formaldehyde and chromatin sheared by sonication or nuclease digested. ChIP-MS baits can be proteins in tagged or endogenous form, histone PTMs, or lncRNAs. Locus-specific ChIP-MS methods would allow direct purification of a single genomic locus and the proteins associated with it. There, loci can be targeted either by artificial DNA-binding sites and corresponding binding proteins or via proteins with sequence specificity such as TAL or nuclease deficient Cas9 in combination with a specific guide RNA. We predict that advances in MS technology will soon make such approaches generally applicable tools in epigenetics. PMID:27402878

Inter-doctor variations in the assessment of functional incapacities by insurance physicians

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Background The aim of this study was to determine the - largely unexplored - extent of systematic variation in the work disability assessment by Dutch insurance physicians (IPs) of employees on long-term sick leave, and to ascertain whether this variation was associated with the individual characteristics and opinions of IPs. Methods In March 2008 we conducted a survey among IPs on the basis of the 'Attitude - Social norm - self-Efficacy' (ASE) model. We used the ensuing data to form latent variables for the ASE constructs. We then linked the background variables and the measured constructs for IPs (n = 199) working at regional offices (n = 27) to the work disability assessments of clients (n = 83,755) and their characteristics. These assessments were carried out between July 2003 and April 2008. We performed multilevel regression analysis on three important assessment outcomes: No Sustainable Capacity or Restrictions for Working Hours (binominal), Functional Incapacity Score (scale 0-6) and Maximum Work Disability Class (binominal). We calculated Intra Class Correlations (ICCs) at IP level and office level and explained variances (R2) for the three outcomes. A higher ICC reflects stronger systematic variation. Results The ICCs at IP level were approximately 6% for No Sustainable Capacity or Restrictions for Working Hours and Maximum Work Disability Class and 12% for Functional Incapacity Score. Background IP variables and the measured ASE constructs for physicians contributed very little to the variation - at most 1%. The ICCs at office level ranged from 0% to around 1%. The R2 was 11% for No Sustainable Capacity or Restrictions for Working Hours, 19% for Functional Incapacity Score and 37% for Maximum Work Disability Class. Conclusion Our study uncovered small to moderate systematic variations in the outcome of disability assessments in the Netherlands. However, the individual characteristics and opinions of insurance physicians have very little impact on these variations. Our findings provided no indications of other reasons for these variations. They may be related to different work routines or to different views on the workload of a 'normal' employee. If so, they could be reduced by well-developed and comprehensively implemented guidelines. Therefore, further research is needed. PMID:22077926

Factors Influencing Pulmonary Toxicity in Children Undergoing Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation in the Setting of Total Body Irradiation-Based Myeloablative Conditioning.

PubMed

Abugideiri, Mustafa; Nanda, Ronica H; Butker, Charlotte; Zhang, Chao; Kim, Sungjin; Chiang, Kuang-Yueh; Butker, Elizabeth; Khan, Mohammad K; Haight, Ann E; Chen, Zhengjia; Esiashvili, Natia

2016-02-01

This study evaluated factors associated with increased risk of pulmonary toxicity (PT) from any cause in pediatric patients after myeloablative conditioning, using total body irradiation (TBI), followed by allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). The records of 129 consecutive pediatric patients (range: 1-21 years of age) who underwent TBI-based myeloablative conditioning for hematologic malignancies at our institution between January 2003 and May 2014 were reviewed. Although total TBI doses ranged from 10.5 to 14 Gy, lung doses were limited to 10 Gy with partial transmission blocks. TBI dose rates ranged from 5.6 cGy/min to 20.9 cGy/min. PT was classified using clinical symptoms, radiographic evidence, and ventilatory defects on pulmonary function tests. Noninfectious (idiopathic) pneumonia syndrome (IPS) was characterized by patients exhibiting PT while demonstrating no signs of infection throughout the follow-up period. PT from any cause developed in 70.5% of patients and was significantly associated with increased transplantation-related mortality (TRM) (P=.03) and decreased overall survival (OS) (P=.02). IPS developed in 23.3% of patients but was not associated with increased TRM (P=.6) or decreased OS (P=.5). Acute graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) significantly affected PT (P=.001) but did not significantly influence the development of IPS (P=.4). Infection was a leading cause of PT (75.8%). TBI dose rate significantly affected development of overall PT (P=.02) and was the sole factor to significantly influence the incidence of IPS (P=.002). TBI total dose, dose per fraction, disease type, transplantation chemotherapy, age of patient, sex, and donor type did not significantly impact overall PT or IPS. A high incidence of PT was noted in this large series of homogeneously treated pediatric patients undergoing TBI for allogeneic HSCT. TBI dose rates affected overall PT and strongly influenced IPS. TBI dose rate is a contributing factor influencing pulmonary toxicity and rates less than 15 cGy/min should be considered to decrease the risk of IPS. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Factors Influencing Pulmonary Toxicity in Children Undergoing Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation in the Setting of Total Body Irradiation-Based Myeloablative Conditioning

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

Abugideiri, Mustafa, E-mail: Mabugid@emory.edu; Nanda, Ronica H.; Butker, Charlotte

Purpose: This study evaluated factors associated with increased risk of pulmonary toxicity (PT) from any cause in pediatric patients after myeloablative conditioning, using total body irradiation (TBI), followed by allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Methods and Materials: The records of 129 consecutive pediatric patients (range: 1-21 years of age) who underwent TBI-based myeloablative conditioning for hematologic malignancies at our institution between January 2003 and May 2014 were reviewed. Although total TBI doses ranged from 10.5 to 14 Gy, lung doses were limited to 10 Gy with partial transmission blocks. TBI dose rates ranged from 5.6 cGy/min to 20.9 cGy/min. PT was classified usingmore » clinical symptoms, radiographic evidence, and ventilatory defects on pulmonary function tests. Noninfectious (idiopathic) pneumonia syndrome (IPS) was characterized by patients exhibiting PT while demonstrating no signs of infection throughout the follow-up period. Results: PT from any cause developed in 70.5% of patients and was significantly associated with increased transplantation-related mortality (TRM) (P=.03) and decreased overall survival (OS) (P=.02). IPS developed in 23.3% of patients but was not associated with increased TRM (P=.6) or decreased OS (P=.5). Acute graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) significantly affected PT (P=.001) but did not significantly influence the development of IPS (P=.4). Infection was a leading cause of PT (75.8%). TBI dose rate significantly affected development of overall PT (P=.02) and was the sole factor to significantly influence the incidence of IPS (P=.002). TBI total dose, dose per fraction, disease type, transplantation chemotherapy, age of patient, sex, and donor type did not significantly impact overall PT or IPS. Conclusions: A high incidence of PT was noted in this large series of homogeneously treated pediatric patients undergoing TBI for allogeneic HSCT. TBI dose rates affected overall PT and strongly influenced IPS. TBI dose rate is a contributing factor influencing pulmonary toxicity and rates less than 15 cGy/min should be considered to decrease the risk of IPS.« less

A Mobility-Aware QoS Signaling Protocol for Ambient Networks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jeong, Seong-Ho; Lee, Sung-Hyuck; Bang, Jongho

Mobility-aware quality of service (QoS) signaling is crucial to provide seamless multimedia services in the ambient environment where mobile nodes may move frequently between different wireless access networks. The mobility of an IP-based node in ambient networks affects routing paths, and as a result, can have a significant impact on the operation and state management of QoS signaling protocols. In this paper, we first analyze the impact of mobility on QoS signaling protocols and how the protocols operate in mobility scenarios. We then propose an efficient mobility-aware QoS signaling protocol which can operate adaptively in ambient networks. The key features of the protocol include the fast discovery of a crossover node where the old and new paths converge or diverge due to handover and the localized state management for seamless services. Our analytical and simulation/experimental results show that the proposed/implemented protocol works better than existing protocols in the IP-based mobile environment.

Synergistic Effect of Quercetin and α-Lipoic Acid on Aluminium Chloride Induced Neurotoxicity in Rats.

PubMed

Al-Otaibi, Sooad Saud; Arafah, Maha Mohamad; Sharma, Bechan; Alhomida, Abdullah Salih; Siddiqi, Nikhat Jamal

2018-01-01

The present study was carried out to study the protective effects of quercetin and α -lipoic acid alone and in combination against aluminum chloride induced neurotoxicity in rats. The study consisted of eight groups, namely, Group 1: control rats, Group 2: rats receiving aluminium chloride 7 mg/kg body weight intraperitoneal route (i.p) for two weeks, Group 3: rats receiving quercetin 50 mg/kg body weight i.p. for two weeks, Group 4: rats receiving quercetin 50 mg/kg body weight followed by aluminium chloride 7 mg/kg body weight i.p. for two weeks, Group 5: rats receiving α -lipoic acid 20 mg/kg body weight i.p. for two weeks, Group 6: rats receiving lipoic acid 20 mg/kg body weight followed by aluminium chloride 7 mg/kg body weight i.p. for two weeks, Group 7: rats receiving α -lipoic acid 20 mg/kg body weight and quercetin 50 mg/kg body weight i.p. for two weeks, and Group 8: rats receiving α -lipoic acid 20 mg/kg body weight and quercetin 50 mg/kg body weight followed by aluminium chloride 7 mg/kg body weight i.p. for two weeks. The animals were killed after 24 hours of the last dose by cervical dislocation. Aluminium chloride treatment of rats resulted in significant increases in lipid peroxidation, protein carbonyl levels, and acetylcholine esterase activity in the brain. This was accompanied with significant decreases in reduced glutathione, activities of the glutathione reductase, and superoxide dismutase. Pretreatment of AlCl 3 exposed rats to either quercetin or α -lipoic acid also restored altered lipid peroxidation and superoxide dismutase to near normal levels. Quercetin or α -lipoic acid pretreatment of AlCl 3 exposed rats improved the protein carbonyl and reduced glutathione, glutathione reductase, and acetylcholine esterase activities in rat brains towards normal levels. Combined pretreatment of AlCl3 exposed rats with quercetin and α -lipoic acid resulted in a tendency towards normalization of most of the parameters. Quercetin and α -lipoic acid complemented each other in protecting the rat brain against oxidative stress induced by aluminium chloride.

Synergistic Effect of Quercetin and α-Lipoic Acid on Aluminium Chloride Induced Neurotoxicity in Rats

PubMed Central

Al-Otaibi, Sooad Saud

2018-01-01

Objectives The present study was carried out to study the protective effects of quercetin and α-lipoic acid alone and in combination against aluminum chloride induced neurotoxicity in rats. Materials and Methods The study consisted of eight groups, namely, Group 1: control rats, Group 2: rats receiving aluminium chloride 7 mg/kg body weight intraperitoneal route (i.p) for two weeks, Group 3: rats receiving quercetin 50 mg/kg body weight i.p. for two weeks, Group 4: rats receiving quercetin 50 mg/kg body weight followed by aluminium chloride 7 mg/kg body weight i.p. for two weeks, Group 5: rats receiving α-lipoic acid 20 mg/kg body weight i.p. for two weeks, Group 6: rats receiving lipoic acid 20 mg/kg body weight followed by aluminium chloride 7 mg/kg body weight i.p. for two weeks, Group 7: rats receiving α-lipoic acid 20 mg/kg body weight and quercetin 50 mg/kg body weight i.p. for two weeks, and Group 8: rats receiving α-lipoic acid 20 mg/kg body weight and quercetin 50 mg/kg body weight followed by aluminium chloride 7 mg/kg body weight i.p. for two weeks. The animals were killed after 24 hours of the last dose by cervical dislocation. Results Aluminium chloride treatment of rats resulted in significant increases in lipid peroxidation, protein carbonyl levels, and acetylcholine esterase activity in the brain. This was accompanied with significant decreases in reduced glutathione, activities of the glutathione reductase, and superoxide dismutase. Pretreatment of AlCl3 exposed rats to either quercetin or α-lipoic acid also restored altered lipid peroxidation and superoxide dismutase to near normal levels. Quercetin or α-lipoic acid pretreatment of AlCl3 exposed rats improved the protein carbonyl and reduced glutathione, glutathione reductase, and acetylcholine esterase activities in rat brains towards normal levels. Combined pretreatment of AlCl3 exposed rats with quercetin and α-lipoic acid resulted in a tendency towards normalization of most of the parameters. Conclusions Quercetin and α-lipoic acid complemented each other in protecting the rat brain against oxidative stress induced by aluminium chloride. PMID:29861723

Modeling of divertor power footprint widths on EAST by SOLPS5.0/B2.5-Eirene

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Deng, Guozhong; Liu, Xiaoju; Wang, Liang; Liu, Shaocheng; Xu, Jichan; Feng, Wei; Liu, Jianbin; Liu, Huan; Gao, Xiang

2017-04-01

The edge plasma code package SOLPS5.0 is employed to simulate the divertor power footprint widths of the experimental advanced superconducting tokamak (EAST) L-mode and ELM-free H-mode plasmas. The divertor power footprint widths, which consist of the scrape-off layer (SOL) width λ q and heat spreading S, are important physical parameters for edge plasmas. In this work, a plasma current scan is implemented in the simulation to obtain the dependence of the divertor power footprint width on the plasma current I p. Strong inverse scaling of the SOL width with I p has been achieved for both L-mode and H-mode plasmas in the forms of {λ }q,{{L}\\text-\\text{mode}}=4.98× {I}{{p}}-0.68 and {λ }q,{{H}\\text-\\text{mode}}=1.86× {I}{{p}}-1.08. Similar trends have also been demonstrated in the study of heat spreading with {S}{{L}\\text-\\text{mode}}=1.95× {I}{{p}}-0.542 and {S}{{H}\\text-\\text{mode}}=0.756× {I}{{p}}-0.872. In addition, studies on divertor peak heat load and the magnetic flux expansion factor show that both of them are proportional to plasma current. The simulation work here can act as a way to explore the power footprint widths of future tokamak fusion devices such as ITER and the China Fusion Engineering Test Reactor (CFETR).

Peripheral blood cytokine and chemokine profiles in juvenile localized scleroderma

PubMed Central

Torok, Kathryn S.; Kurzinski, Katherine; Kelsey, Christina; Yabes, Jonathan; Magee, Kelsey; Vallejo, Abbe N.; Medsger, Thomas; Feghali-Bostwick, Carol A.

2015-01-01

Objective To evaluate peripheral blood T-helper (TH) cell associated cytokine and chemokine profiles in localized scleroderma (LS), and correlate them with clinical disease features, including disease activity parameters. Methods A 29-plex Luminex platform was used to analyze the humoral profile of plasma samples from 69 pediatric LS patients and 71 healthy pediatric controls. Cytokine/chemokine levels were compared between these two groups and within LS patients, focusing on validated clinical outcome measures of disease activity and damage in LS. Results Plasma levels of IP-10, MCP-1, IL-17a, IL-12p70, GM-CSF, PDGF-bb, IFN-α2, and IFN-γ were significantly higher in LS compared to healthy controls. Analysis within the LS group demonstrated IP-10, TNF-α and GM-CSF correlated with clinical measures of disease activity. Several cytokines/chemokines correlated with anti-histone antibody, while only a few correlated with positive ANA and single-stranded DNA antibody. Conclusion This is the first time that multiple cytokines and chemokines have been examined simultaneously LS. In general, a TH-1 (IFN-γ) and TH-17 (IL-17a) predominance was demonstrated in LS compared to healthy controls. There is also an IFN–γ signature with elevated IP-10, MCP-1 and IFN-γ, which has been previously demonstrated in systemic sclerosis, suggesting a shared pathophysiology. Within the LS patients, those with active disease demonstrated IP-10, TNF-α and GM-CSF, which may potentially serve as biomarkers of disease activity in the clinical setting. PMID:26254121

Antiedematogenic activity of the indole derivative N-salicyloyltryptamine in animal models.

PubMed

Sousa-Neto, Benedito P; Gomes, Bruno S; Cunha, Francisco V M; Arcanjo, Daniel D R; Gutierrez, Stanley J C; Souza, Maria F V; Almeida, Fernanda R C; Oliveira, Francisco A

2018-01-01

The N-salicyloyltryptamine (NST) is an indole derivative compound analogue to the alkaloid N-benzoyltryptamine. In the present study, the antiedematogenic activity of NST was investigated in animal models. Firstly, the acute toxicity for NST was assessed according to the OECD Guideline no. 423. The potential NST-induced antiedematogenic activity was evaluated by carrageenan-induced paw edema in rats, as well as by dextran-, compound 48/80-, histamine-, serotonin-, capsaicine-, and prostaglandin E2-induced paw edema in mice. The effect of NST on compound 48/80-induced ex vivo mast cell degranulation on mice mesenteric bed was investigated. No death or alteration of behavioral parameters was observed after administration of NST (2000 mg/kg, i.p.) during the observation time of 14 days. The NST (100 and 200 mg/kg, i.p.) inhibited the carrageenan-induced edema from the 1st to the 5th hour (**p<0.01; ***p<0.001). The edematogenic activity induced by dextran, compound 48/80, histamine, serotonin, capsaicin, and prostaglandin E2 was inhibited by NST (100 mg/kg, i.p.) throughout the observation period (**p<0.01; ***p<0.001). The pretreatment with NST (50, 100 or 200 mg/kg, i.p) attenuates the compound 48/80-induced mast cell degranulation (**p<0.01; ***p<0.001). Thus, the inhibition of both mast cell degranulation and release of endogenous mediators are probably involved in the NST-induced antiedematogenic effect.

Solar, interplanetary, and magnetospheric parameters for the radiation belt energetic electron flux

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vassiliadis, D.; Fung, S. F.; Klimas, A. J.

2005-04-01

In developing models of the radiation belt energetic electron flux, it is important to include the states of the interplanetary medium and the magnetosphere, as well as the solar activity. In this study we choose the log flux je(t;L;E) at 2-6 MeV, as measured by the Proton-Electron Telescope (PET) on SAMPEX in the period 1993-2002, as a representative flux variable and evaluate the usefulness of 17 interplanetary and magnetospheric (IP/MS) parameters in its specification. The reference parameter is the solar wind velocity, chosen because of its known high geoeffectiveness. We use finite impulse response filters to represent the effective coupling of the individual parameters to the log flux. We measure the temporal and spatial scales of the coupling using the impulse response function and the input's geoeffectiveness using the data-model correlation. The correlation profile as a function of L is complex, and we identify its peaks in reference to the radial regions P0 (L = 3.1-4.0, inner edge of the outer belt), P1 (4.1-7.5, main outer belt), and P2 (>7.5, quasi-trapped population), whose boundaries are determined from a radial correlative analysis (Vassiliadis et al., 2003b). Using the profiles, we classify the IP/MS parameters in four categories: (1) For the solar wind velocity and pressure the correlation is high and largely independent of L across P0 and P1, reaching its maximum in L = 4.8-6.1, or the central part of P1. (2) The IMF BSouth component and related IP/MS parameters have a bimodal correlation function, with peaks in region P0 (L = 3.0-4.1) and the geosynchronous orbit region within P1. (3) The IMF BNorth and four other interplanetary or solar irradiance parameters have a minimum correlation in P1, while the highest correlation is in the slot-outer belt boundary (L = 2.5). (4) Finally, the solar wind density has a unique correlation profile, which is anticorrelated with that of the solar wind velocity for certain L shells. We verify this classification using more complex filtering methods as well as standard correlation analysis. The categories correspond to four types of solar-terrestrial interactions, namely, viscous interaction, magnetic reconnection, effects of ionospheric heating, and effects of high solar wind density. The response to these interactions produces the observed inner magnetospheric coherence. In each category the L dependence of the correlation profile helps explain why geoeffective solar wind structures are followed by electron acceleration in some L ranges but not in others.

Protective effect of royal jelly on fertility and biochemical parameters in bleomycin-‎induced male rats.

PubMed

Amirshahi, Tayebeh; Najafi, Gholamreza; Nejati, Vahid

2014-03-01

Bleomycin (BL) is a glycopeptide antibiotic obtained from the bacterium Streptomyces verticillus which is routinely used for treatment of human cancers. Royal jelly (RJ) is a production from the hypo pharyngeal, mandibular and post cerebral glands of nurse bees. RJ consists of 66% water, 15% sugars, 5% lipids, and 13% proteins, essential amino acids and vitamins. The aim of present study was to evaluate protective effect of royal jelly on sperm parameters and malondialdehyde (MDA) production in rat. Forty adult male wistar rats (220±20gr) were randomly divided into 4 groups (n=10). Control group (CG) received normal saline 10 ml/kg twice a week with Intraperitoneal (I.P) for 48 days (0.3 ml/rat(. Royal Jelly group (RJG) received jelly (100 mg/kg daily) for 48 days orally. Bleomycin group (BLG) received BL (10 mg/kg twice a week) with I.P for 48 days. Royal Jelly+ Bleomycin group (RJ+BLG) received royal Jelly (100 mg/kg /day) orally concomitant with BL administration. Sperm count, motility, and viability were investigated and chromatin quality and DNA integrity were also analyzed. Serum testosterone and MDA concentrations were measured as well. BL caused decline significantly (p<0.05) sperm count, sperm viability, motility as well as testosterone concentration compared to control group while significant (p<0.05) increases in immature sperm, sperm with damaged DNA and MDA concentration were announced in BL in comparison with CG and RJ+BLG. Royal jelly improved Bleomycin-induced toxicity on sperm parameters and testosterone and MDA concentrations. The present results support the idea that BL adversely affects sperm parameters and MDA and the RJ with antioxidant properties has positive effects on these parameters. This article extracted from M.Sc. thesis. (Tayebeh amirshahi).

Changes in insurance physicians' attitudes, self-efficacy, intention, and knowledge and skills regarding the guidelines for depression, following an implementation strategy.

PubMed

Zwerver, Feico; Schellart, Antonius J M; Anema, Johannes R; van der Beek, Allard J

2013-03-01

To improve guideline adherence by insurance physicians (IPs), an implementation strategy was developed and investigated in a randomized controlled trial. This implementation strategy involved a multifaceted training programme for a group of IPs in applying the guidelines for depression. In this study we report the impact of the implementation strategy on the physicians' attitude, intention, self-efficacy, and knowledge and skills as behavioural determinants of guideline adherence. Any links between these self-reported behavioural determinants and levels of guideline adherence were also determined. Just before and 3 months after the implementation of the multifaceted training, a questionnaire designed to measure behavioural determinants on the basis of the ASE (attitude, social norm, self-efficacy) model was completed by the intervention (n = 21) and the control group (n = 19). Items of the questionnaire were grouped to form scales of ASE determinants. Internal consistency of the scales was calculated using Cronbach's alphas. Differences between groups concerning changes in ASE determinants, and the association of these changes with improvements in guideline adherence, were analyzed using analysis of covariance. The internal consistency of the scales of ASE determinants proved to be sufficiently reliable, with Cronbach's alphas of at least 0.70. At follow-up after 3 months, the IPs given the implementation strategy showed significant improvement over the IPs in the control group for all ASE determinants investigated. Changes in knowledge and skills were only weakly associated with improvements in guideline adherence. The implementation strategy developed for insurance physicians can increase their attitude, intention, self-efficacy, and knowledge and skills when applying the guidelines for depression. These changes in behavioural determinants might indicate positive changes in IPs' behaviour towards the use of the guidelines for depression. However, only changes in knowledge and skills related to the use of the guidelines were associated with improvements in IPs' actual performance when applying the guidelines.

Subtype-selective regulation of IP(3) receptors by thimerosal via cysteine residues within the IP(3)-binding core and suppressor domain.

PubMed

Khan, Samir A; Rossi, Ana M; Riley, Andrew M; Potter, Barry V L; Taylor, Colin W

2013-04-15

IP(3)R (IP(3) [inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate] receptors) and ryanodine receptors are the most widely expressed intracellular Ca(2+) channels and both are regulated by thiol reagents. In DT40 cells stably expressing single subtypes of mammalian IP(3)R, low concentrations of thimerosal (also known as thiomersal), which oxidizes thiols to form a thiomercurylethyl complex, increased the sensitivity of IP(3)-evoked Ca(2+) release via IP(3)R1 and IP(3)R2, but inhibited IP(3)R3. Activation of IP(3)R is initiated by IP(3) binding to the IBC (IP(3)-binding core; residues 224-604) and proceeds via re-arrangement of an interface between the IBC and SD (suppressor domain; residues 1-223). Thimerosal (100 μM) stimulated IP(3) binding to the isolated NT (N-terminal; residues 1-604) of IP(3)R1 and IP(3)R2, but not to that of IP(3)R3. Binding of a competitive antagonist (heparin) or partial agonist (dimeric-IP(3)) to NT1 was unaffected by thiomersal, suggesting that the effect of thimerosal is specifically related to IP(3)R activation. IP(3) binding to NT1 in which all cysteine residues were replaced by alanine was insensitive to thimerosal, so too were NT1 in which cysteine residues were replaced in either the SD or IBC. This demonstrates that thimerosal interacts directly with cysteine in both the SD and IBC. Chimaeric proteins in which the SD of the IP(3)R was replaced by the structurally related A domain of a ryanodine receptor were functional, but thimerosal inhibited both IP(3) binding to the chimaeric NT and IP(3)-evoked Ca(2+) release from the chimaeric IP(3)R. This is the first systematic analysis of the effects of a thiol reagent on each IP(3)R subtype. We conclude that thimerosal selectively sensitizes IP(3)R1 and IP(3)R2 to IP(3) by modifying cysteine residues within both the SD and IBC and thereby stabilizing an active conformation of the receptor.

Protective effect of Tribulus terrestris fruit extract on cerulein-induced acute pancreatitis in mice

PubMed Central

Borran, Mina; Minaiyan, Mohsen; Zolfaghari, Behzad; Mahzouni, Parvin

2017-01-01

Objective: Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antimicrobial activities of Tribulus terrestris (T. terrestris) could be helpful in the treatment of acute pancreatitis; thus, this study was designed to investigate the effects of T. terrestris on cerulein-induced acute pancreatitis in mice. Materials and Methods: Three doses (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg) of T. terrestris hydro-alcoholic extract were administered both orally (60 minutes before pancreatitis induction, p.o.) and intra-peritoneally (30 minutes before pancreatitis induction, i.p.) to different groups of mice (n=6). Pancreatitis was induced by five injections (i.p.) of cerulein 50μg/kg body weight with 1 hr intervals. Animals were euthanized 5 hr after the last injection of cerulein and tissue injures were assessed biochemically and pathologically. Results: T. terrestris extract 200 and 400mg/kg (p.o.) and T. terrestris extract 400 mg/kg (i.p.) reduced pancreatic tissue myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity and serum amylase and lipase levels and alleviated histological parameters. Conclusion: These data suggest that T. terrestris hydro-alcoholic extract was effective in protecting against experimental acute pancreatitis and possibly the efficacy depends on dose and route of administration. PMID:28748172

Brahmi rasayana Improves Learning and Memory in Mice

PubMed Central

Joshi, Hanumanthachar; Parle, Milind

2006-01-01

Cure of cognitive disorders such as amnesia, attention deficit and Alzheimer's disease is still a nightmare in the field of medicine. Nootropic agents such as piracetam, aniracetam and choline esterase inhibitors like Donepezil® are being used to improve memory, mood and behavior, but the resulting side effects associated with these agents have made their use limited. The present study was undertaken to assess the potential of Brahmi rasayana (BR) as a memory enhancer. BR (100 and 200 mg kg−1 p.o.) was administered for eight successive days to both young and aged mice. Elevated plus maze and passive-avoidance paradigm were employed to evaluate learning and memory parameters. Scopolamine (0.4 mg kg−1 i.p.) was used to induce amnesia in mice. The effect of BR on whole brain AChE activity was also assessed. Piracetam (200 mg kg−1 i.p.) was used as a standard nootropic agent. BR significantly improved learning and memory in young mice and reversed the amnesia induced by both scopolamine (0.4 mg kg−1 i.p.) and natural aging. BR significantly decreased whole brain acetyl cholinesterase activity. BR might prove to be a useful memory restorative agent in the treatment of dementia seen in elderly. PMID:16550227

Spontaneous symmetry breaking due to the trade-off between attractive and repulsive couplings.

PubMed

Sathiyadevi, K; Karthiga, S; Chandrasekar, V K; Senthilkumar, D V; Lakshmanan, M

2017-04-01

Spontaneous symmetry breaking is an important phenomenon observed in various fields including physics and biology. In this connection, we here show that the trade-off between attractive and repulsive couplings can induce spontaneous symmetry breaking in a homogeneous system of coupled oscillators. With a simple model of a system of two coupled Stuart-Landau oscillators, we demonstrate how the tendency of attractive coupling in inducing in-phase synchronized (IPS) oscillations and the tendency of repulsive coupling in inducing out-of-phase synchronized oscillations compete with each other and give rise to symmetry breaking oscillatory states and interesting multistabilities. Further, we provide explicit expressions for synchronized and antisynchronized oscillatory states as well as the so called oscillation death (OD) state and study their stability. If the Hopf bifurcation parameter (λ) is greater than the natural frequency (ω) of the system, the attractive coupling favors the emergence of an antisymmetric OD state via a Hopf bifurcation whereas the repulsive coupling favors the emergence of a similar state through a saddle-node bifurcation. We show that an increase in the repulsive coupling not only destabilizes the IPS state but also facilitates the reentrance of the IPS state.

Technology Implementation Plan: Irradiation Testing and Qualification for Nuclear Thermal Propulsion Fuel

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

Harrison, Thomas J.; Howard, Richard H.; Rader, Jordan D.

This document is a notional technology implementation plan (TIP) for the development, testing, and qualification of a prototypic fuel element to support design and construction of a nuclear thermal propulsion (NTP) engine, specifically its pre-flight ground test. This TIP outlines a generic methodology for the progression from non-nuclear out-of-pile (OOP) testing through nuclear in-pile (IP) testing, at operational temperatures, flows, and specific powers, of an NTP fuel element in an existing test reactor. Subsequent post-irradiation examination (PIE) will occur in existing radiological facilities. Further, the methodology is intended to be nonspecific with respect to fuel types and irradiation or examinationmore » facilities. The goals of OOP and IP testing are to provide confidence in the operational performance of fuel system concepts and provide data to program leadership for system optimization and fuel down-selection. The test methodology, parameters, collected data, and analytical results from OOP, IP, and PIE will be documented for reference by the NTP operator and the appropriate regulatory and oversight authorities. Final full-scale integrated testing would be performed separately by the reactor operator as part of the preflight ground test.« less

Doubling the Spectrum of Time-Domain Induced Polarization: Removal of Harmonic Noise and Self-Potential Drift

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fiandaca, G.; Olsson, P. I.; Auken, E.; Larsen, J. J.; Maurya, P. K.; Dahlin, T.

2015-12-01

The extraction of spectral information in the inversion process of time-domain (TD) induced polarization (IP) data is changing the use of the IP method. Data interpretation is evolving from a qualitative description of the soil, able only to discriminate the presence of contrasts in chargeability parameters, towards a quantitative analysis of the investigated media, which allows soil-type characterization. Two major limitations restrict the extraction of the spectral information of TDIP data in the field: i) the difficulty of acquiring reliable early-time measurements, in the millisecond range and ii) the self-potential drift in the measured potentials distorting the shape of the late time IP decays, in the second range. For measuring at early-times, we developed a new method for removing the powerline noise contained in the data through a model-based approach, localizing the fundamental frequency of the powerline signal in the full-waveform IP recordings. By this, we cancel both the fundamental signal and its harmonics. This noise cancellation allows the use of earlier and narrower gates, down to a few milliseconds after the current turn-off. Even earlier gates can be measured but they will be inductively "contaminated" which we at present want to avoid. A proper removal of the self-potential drift present between the potential electrodes is essential for preserving the shape of the TD decays, especially for late times. Usually constant or linear drift-removal algorithms are used, but these algorithms fail in removing the background potentials due to the polarization of the electrodes previously used for current injection. We developed a drift-removal scheme that model the polarization effect and efficiently allows for preserving the shape of the IP decays. The removal of both the harmonic noise and self-potential drift allows for doubling the usable range of TDIP data to more than three decades in time (corresponding to three decays in frequency), and will significantly advance the science and the applicability of the IP method in exploration and environmental geophysics.

POSSIBLE HYPOCHOLESTEROLEMIC EFFECT OF GINGER AND ROSEMARY OILS IN RATS

PubMed Central

Eissa, Fatma A.; Choudhry, Hani; Abdulaal, Wesam H.; Baothman, Othman A.; Zeyadi, Mustafa; Moselhy, Said S.; Zamzami, Mazin A.

2017-01-01

Background: Hypercholesterolemia is a major risk factor for development of atherosclerosis. The present study was conducted to evaluate the potential effect of ginger oil alone or combined with rosemary oil as hypocholesterolemic agent in rats fed high fat diet. Materials and methods: Healthy female albino rats (n=80) weighting about (150-180 g) were included in this study divided into two equal groups; Group (I): were fed on the basal diet. Group (I) were divided into 4 subgroups each 10: Group (Ia): negative control. Group (Ib): Rats received i.p 2.5 g/Kg b.w of ginger oil. Group (Ic): rats received i.p 2.5 g/Kg b.w of rosemary oil. Group (Id): Rats received i.p 5 g/Kg b.w mixture of ginger oil and rosemary oil (1:1). The second main groups; Group (II): high fat diet (HFD) were fed on the basal diet plus cholesterol (1%), bile salt (0.25%) and animal fat (15%) to induce hypercholesterolemia for six weeks. Group (II) was divided into 4subgroups: Group (IIa): HFD. Group (IIb): HFD were treated with i.p 2.5 g/Kg b.w ginger oil. Group (IIc): (n=10) HFD were treated with i.p 2.5 g/Kg b.w rosemary oil. Group (IId): (n=10) HFD were treated with i.p 5 g/Kg b.w mixture of oils. Results: It was found that HFD rats showed a significant elevation in glucose, total cholesterol, triglyceride, GOT, GPT, alkaline phosphatase and a reduction in serum HDL-c compared with negative control. Treatment with ginger oil, rosemary oil and their mixture modulated the elevation of these parameters. Histopathological examination of the liver tissue of HFD rats showed a lipid deposition and macrophage infiltration and stenosis of hepatic vein. Treatment with mixture oils preserves normal structure of liver. Conclusion: It was concluded that, hypocholesterolemic effect was related to the active oil content as Rosemary oil contain - α-pinene, Camphor, cineole, borneol and Ginger oil contain Linalool, Terpineol, Borneol, Eucalyptol. PMID:28638882

Impact of sequencing depth in ChIP-seq experiments

PubMed Central

Jung, Youngsook L.; Luquette, Lovelace J.; Ho, Joshua W.K.; Ferrari, Francesco; Tolstorukov, Michael; Minoda, Aki; Issner, Robbyn; Epstein, Charles B.; Karpen, Gary H.; Kuroda, Mitzi I.; Park, Peter J.

2014-01-01

In a chromatin immunoprecipitation followed by high-throughput sequencing (ChIP-seq) experiment, an important consideration in experimental design is the minimum number of sequenced reads required to obtain statistically significant results. We present an extensive evaluation of the impact of sequencing depth on identification of enriched regions for key histone modifications (H3K4me3, H3K36me3, H3K27me3 and H3K9me2/me3) using deep-sequenced datasets in human and fly. We propose to define sufficient sequencing depth as the number of reads at which detected enrichment regions increase <1% for an additional million reads. Although the required depth depends on the nature of the mark and the state of the cell in each experiment, we observe that sufficient depth is often reached at <20 million reads for fly. For human, there are no clear saturation points for the examined datasets, but our analysis suggests 40–50 million reads as a practical minimum for most marks. We also devise a mathematical model to estimate the sufficient depth and total genomic coverage of a mark. Lastly, we find that the five algorithms tested do not agree well for broad enrichment profiles, especially at lower depths. Our findings suggest that sufficient sequencing depth and an appropriate peak-calling algorithm are essential for ensuring robustness of conclusions derived from ChIP-seq data. PMID:24598259

Protective effect of combined pumpkin seed and ginger extracts on sperm characteristics, biochemical parameters and epididymal histology in adult male rats treated with cyclophosphamide.

PubMed

Aghaie, Somaieh; Nikzad, Hossein; Mahabadi, Javad Amini; Taghizadeh, Mohsen; Azami-Tameh, Abolfazl; Taherian, Aliakbar; Sajjadian, Seyyed Mohammad Sajjad; Kamani, Mehran

2016-09-01

Reproductive toxicity is one of the side effects of cyclophosphamide (CP) in cancer treatment. Pumpkin seeds and Zingiber officinale are natural sources of antioxidants. We investigated the possible protective effect of combined pumpkin seed and Zingiber officinale extracts on sperm characteristics, epididymal histology and biochemical parameters of CP-treated rats. Male adult Wistar rats were divided randomly into six groups. Group 1, as a control, received an isotonic saline solution injection intraperitoneally (IP). Group 2 were injected IP with a single dose of CP (100 mg/kg) once. Groups 3 and 4 received CP plus 300 and 600 mg/kg combined pumpkin seed and Zingiber officinale extract (50:50). Groups 5 and 6 received only 300 and 600 mg/kg combined pumpkin seed and Zingiber officinale extract. Six weeks after treatment, sperm characteristics, histopathological changes and biochemical parameters were assessed. In CP-treated rats, motile spermatozoa were decreased, and abnormal or dead spermatozoa increased significantly (P < 0.001) but administration of the mixed extract improved sperm parameters. Epididymal epithelium and fibromascular thickness were also improved in extract-treated rats compared to control or CP groups. Biochemical analysis showed that the administration of combined extracts could increase the total antioxidant capacity (TAC) level significantly in groups 3, 4, 5 and 6. Interestingly, the mixed extract could decrease most of the side effects of CP such as vacuolization and separation of epididymal tissue. Our findings indicated that the combined extracts might be used as a protective agent against CP-induced reproductive toxicity.

Impact of West Nile virus dose and incubation period on vector competence of Culex nigripalpus (Diptera: Culicidae).

PubMed

Richards, Stephanie L; Anderson, Sheri L; Lord, Cynthia C; Tabachnick, Walter J

2011-11-01

Female Culex nigripalpus were fed blood containing a low dose (6.3±0.01 logs plaque-forming units (PFU)/mL) or high dose (7.3±0.1 logs PFU/mL) of West Nile virus (WNV) and maintained at 28°C for incubation periods (IPs) of 6 or 12 days. Vector competence was measured using rates of infection (% with WNV-positive bodies), dissemination (% infected with WNV-positive legs), and transmission (% infected with WNV-positive saliva). Infection rates were not influenced by dose or IP. Dissemination rates were significantly higher at the high dose, and this was dependent on IP. Despite 100% infection and 90% dissemination in the most permissive treatment of high dose and 12 days, only 11% transmission was observed. Virus titers in body and leg tissues were significantly lower at the low dose and the titers were not influenced by IP. We show that not all mosquitoes with infections and/or disseminated infections transmit WNV under the conditions of this test. Therefore, characterizing the transmission ability of a vector population using infection or dissemination as indicators of transmission may provide inaccurate information. The complex relationships between infection, dissemination, and transmission must be evaluated under a variety of biological and environmental conditions to begin to assess the epidemiological risk of natural mosquito populations.

The effects of pentobarbital, ketamine-pentobarbital and ketamine-xylazine anesthesia in a rat myocardial ischemic reperfusion injury model.

PubMed

Shekarforoush, Shahnaz; Fatahi, Zahra; Safari, Fatemeh

2016-06-01

To achieve reliable experimental data, the side-effects of anesthetics should be eliminated. Since anesthetics exert a variety of effects on hemodynamic data and incidence of arrhythmias, the selection of anesthetic agents in a myocardial ischemic reperfusion injury model is very important. The present study was performed to compare hemodynamic variables, the incidence of ventricular arrhythmias, and infarct size during 30 min of ischemia and 120 min of reperfusion in rats using pentobarbital, ketamine-pentobarbital or ketamine-xylazine anaesthesia. A total of 30 rats were randomly divided into three groups. In group P, pentobarbital (60 mg/kg, intraperitoneally [IP]) was used solely; in group K-P, ketamine and pentobarbital (50 and 30 mg/kg, respectively, IP) were used in combination; and in group K-X, ketamine and xylazine (75 and 5 mg/kg, respectively, IP) were also used in combination. Hemodynamic data and occurrence of ventricular arrhythmias were recorded throughout the experiments. The ischemic area was measured by triphenyltetrazolium chloride staining. The combination of ketamine-xylazine caused bradycardia and hypotension. The greatest reduction in mean arterial blood pressure during ischemia was in the P group. The most stability in hemodynamic parameters during ischemia and reperfusion was in the K-P group. The infarct size was significantly less in the K-X group. Whereas none of the rats anesthetized with ketamine-xylazine fibrillated during ischemia, ventricular fibrillation occurred in 57% of the animals anesthetized with pentobarbital or ketamine-pentobarbital. Because it offers the most stable hemodynamic parameters, it is concluded that the ketamine-pentobarbital anesthesia combination is the best anesthesia in a rat ischemia reperfusion injury model. © The Author(s) 2015.

Immunoendocrine alterations following Marine Corps Martial Arts training are associated with changes in moral cognitive processes.

PubMed

Siedlik, Jacob A; Deckert, Jake A; Clopton, Aaron W; Gigliotti, Nicole; Chan, Marcia A; Benedict, Stephen H; Herda, Trent J; Gallagher, Philip M; Vardiman, John P

2016-02-01

Combined physical and psychological stress events have been associated with exacerbated endocrine responses and increased alterations in immune cell trafficking when compared to exercise stress alone. Military training programs are rigorous in nature and often purposefully delivered in environments combining high levels of both physical and mental stress. The objective of this study was to assess physiological and cognitive changes following U.S. Marine Corps Martial Arts training. Seven active-duty, male Marines were observed during a typical Marine Corps Martial Arts training session. Immune parameters, including immunomodulatory cytokines, and hormone concentrations were determined from blood samples obtained at baseline, immediately post training (IP) and at 15min intervals post-training to 1h (R15, R30, R45, R60). Assessments of cognitive moral functioning (moral judgment and intent) were recorded at intervals during recovery. There were significant fluctuations in immunoendocrine parameters. Peak endocrine measures were observed within the IP-R15 time interval. Distributions of circulating immune cells were significantly altered with neutrophils and all lymphocyte subsets elevated at IP. IFN-γ and IL-17a exhibited small, non-significant, parallel increases over the recovery period. Moral functioning was informed by different social identities during the recovery resulting in changes in moral decision-making. These data demonstrate that the Marine Corps Martial Arts Program induces significant alterations in lymphocyte and leukocyte distributions, but does not shift the balance of Th1/Th2 cytokines or induce a systemic inflammatory response. The program does, however, induce alterations in moral decision-making ability associated with the observed endocrine responses, even suggesting a potential interaction between one's social identities and endocrine responses upon moral decision-making. Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Fuel and stand characteristics in ponderosa pine infested with mountain pine beetle, Ips spp., and southwestern dwarf mistletoe in Colorado's northern Front Range

Treesearch

Jennifer Gene Klutsch

2008-01-01

The effect of forest disturbances, such as bark beetles and dwarf mistletoes, on fuel dynamics is important for understanding forest dynamics and heterogeneity. Fuel loads and other fuel parameters were assessed in areas of ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa Laws.) infested with southwestern dwarf mistletoe (Arceuthobium vaginatum...

Subtype-selective regulation of IP3 receptors by thimerosal via cysteine residues within the IP3-binding core and suppressor domain

PubMed Central

Khan, Samir A.; Rossi, Ana M.; Riley, Andrew M.; Potter, Barry V. L.; Taylor, Colin W.

2013-01-01

IP3R (IP3 [inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate] receptors) and ryanodine receptors are the most widely expressed intracellular Ca2+ channels and both are regulated by thiol reagents. In DT40 cells stably expressing single subtypes of mammalian IP3R, low concentrations of thimerosal (also known as thiomersal), which oxidizes thiols to form a thiomercurylethyl complex, increased the sensitivity of IP3-evoked Ca2+ release via IP3R1 and IP3R2, but inhibited IP3R3. Activation of IP3R is initiated by IP3 binding to the IBC (IP3-binding core; residues 224–604) and proceeds via re-arrangement of an interface between the IBC and SD (suppressor domain; residues 1–223). Thimerosal (100 μM) stimulated IP3 binding to the isolated NT (N-terminal; residues 1–604) of IP3R1 and IP3R2, but not to that of IP3R3. Binding of a competitive antagonist (heparin) or partial agonist (dimeric-IP3) to NT1 was unaffected by thiomersal, suggesting that the effect of thimerosal is specifically related to IP3R activation. IP3 binding to NT1 in which all cysteine residues were replaced by alanine was insensitive to thimerosal, so too were NT1 in which cysteine residues were replaced in either the SD or IBC. This demonstrates that thimerosal interacts directly with cysteine in both the SD and IBC. Chimaeric proteins in which the SD of the IP3R was replaced by the structurally related A domain of a ryanodine receptor were functional, but thimerosal inhibited both IP3 binding to the chimaeric NT and IP3-evoked Ca2+ release from the chimaeric IP3R. This is the first systematic analysis of the effects of a thiol reagent on each IP3R subtype. We conclude that thimerosal selectively sensitizes IP3R1 and IP3R2 to IP3 by modifying cysteine residues within both the SD and IBC and thereby stabilizing an active conformation of the receptor. PMID:23282150

Assessment of iron bioavailability from different bread making processes using an in vitro intestinal cell model.

PubMed

Rodriguez-Ramiro, I; Brearley, C A; Bruggraber, S F A; Perfecto, A; Shewry, P; Fairweather-Tait, S

2017-08-01

Myo-inositol hexakisphosphate (IP6), is the main iron chelator in cereals and bread. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of three commercial baking processes (sourdough, conventional yeast and Chorleywood Bread Making Process (CBP)) on the IP6 content of wholemeal bread, its impact on iron uptake in Caco-2 cells and the predicted bioavailability of iron from these breads with added iron, simulating a mixed-meal. The sourdough process fully degraded IP6 whilst the CBP and conventional processes reduced it by 75% compared with wholemeal flour. The iron released in solution after a simulated digestion was 8-fold higher in sourdough bread than with others but no difference in cellular iron uptake was observed. Additionally, when iron was added to the different breads digestions only sourdough bread elicited a significant ferritin response in Caco-2 cells (4.8-fold compared to the other breads) suggesting that sourdough bread could contribute towards improved iron nutrition. Crown Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

An intellectual property primer.

PubMed

Penner, Mark D

2008-06-01

While many may think of it as an "invention" of the modern age, intellectual property ("IP") has existed since at least as early as the 17th Century with the advent of the Statute of Monopolies in the U.K. Intellectual property has evolved significantly since then into an important aspect of modern day society touching all of our lives in some form or another Canadian health care in the 21st Century is no exception. This article attempts to provide health care professionals who may not be familiar with this subject matter with a general overview of what is "intellectual property". Many readers may be aware ofintellectual property on some level but may not understand how the various types of IP function and interrelate, as well as the possible impact on the nature and scope of health care services. The purpose of this article is to attempt to provide the reader with the tools, definition and 'jargon" to understand IP so that they can appreciate the issues discussed in greater detail in the remaining papers of this special edition.

Cyberspace modernization. An interest protocol planning advisory

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

Keliiaa, Curtis M.; McLane, Victor N.

A common challenge across the communications and information technology (IT) sectors is Internet + modernization + complexity + risk + cost. Cyberspace modernization and cyber security risks, issues, and concerns impact service providers, their customers, and the industry at large. Public and private sectors are struggling to solve the problem. New service opportunities lie in mobile voice, video, and data, and machine-to-machine (M2M) information and communication technologies that are migrating not only to predominant Internet Protocol (IP) communications, but also concurrently integrating IP, version 4 (IPv4) and IP, version 6 (IPv6). With reference to the Second Internet and the Internetmore » of Things, next generation information services portend business survivability in the changing global market. The planning, architecture, and design information herein is intended to increase infrastructure preparedness, security, interoperability, resilience, and trust in the midst of such unprecedented change and opportunity. This document is a product of Sandia National Laboratories Tribal Cyber and IPv6 project work. It is a Cyberspace Modernization objective advisory in support of bridging the digital divide through strategic partnership and an informed path forward.« less

Impact of the LHC beam abort kicker prefire on high luminosity insertion and CMS detector performance

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

A.I. Drozhdin, N.V. Mokhov and M. Huhtinen

1999-04-13

The effect of possible accidental beam loss in LHC on the IP5 insertion elements and CMS detector is studied via realistic Monte Carlo simulations. Such beam loss could be the consequence of an unsynchronized abort or in worst case an accidental prefire of one of the abort kicker modules. Simulations with the STRUCT code show that this beam losses would take place in the IP5 inner and outer triplets. MARS simulations of the hadronic and electro-magnetic cascades induced in such an event indicate severe heating of the inner triplet quadrupoles. In order to protect the IP5 elements, two methods aremore » proposed: a set of shadow collimators in the outer triplet and a prefired module compensation using a special module charged with an opposite voltage (antikicker). The remnants of the accidental beam loss entering the experimental hall have been used as input for FLUKA simulations in the CMS detector. It is shown that it is vital to take measures to reliably protect the expensive CMS tracker components.« less

NHE isoform switching and KChIP2 upregulation in aging porcine atria.

PubMed

Kant, Ritu; Hu, Zhaoyang; Malhotra, Jaideep K; Krogh-Madsen, Trine; Christini, David J; Heerdt, Paul M; Abbott, Geoffrey W

2013-01-01

Aging increases the risk of cardiac pathologies including atrial fibrillation and can alter myocardial responsiveness to therapeutic agents. Here, seeking molecular correlates of myocardial aging processes, we performed global "whole transcript" analysis of 25,388 genes using 572,667 probes to compare the left atrial (LA) transcriptomes of young adult (9 months old) versus elderly (10 years old) female swine. NHE2 (>9-fold) and KChIP2 (3.8-fold) exhibited the highest aging-related expression increases. Real-time qPCR recapitulated these findings and indicated a 50% decrease in LA NHE1, a twofold increase in right atrial KChIP2, but no significant changes for these transcripts in either ventricle. Notably, even in young adult pigs, NHE2 transcript was detectable and enriched in the atria over the ventricles. NHE1, the recognized cardiac isoform of the sodium hydrogen exchanger, has proven a compelling but clinically disappointing therapeutic target with respect to reperfusion arrhythmias. Our data challenge the dogma that NHE1 is alone in the myocardium and suggest that NHE2 could negatively impact the pharmacological responsiveness of atrial tissue to NHE1-specific inhibitors. KChIP2 is a cytosolic β subunit essential for generation of I to. The increased KChIP2 expression we observed with aging substantially shortened in silico atrial myocyte action potential duration, a predisposing factor in atrial fibrillation. Consistent with this, 4/5 elderly swine sustained pacing-induced AF≥15 s after cessation of stimulation, compared to 0/3 young swine. Our findings uncover potential molecular bases for increased arrhythmogenicity and reduced pharmacologic efficacy in the aging atrium, in a large animal model of human cardiac physiology.

Root iron plaque alleviates cadmium toxicity to rice (Oryza sativa) seedlings.

PubMed

Fu, Youqiang; Yang, Xujian; Shen, Hong

2018-06-18

Iron plaque (IP) on root surface can enhance the tolerance of plants to environmental stresses. However, it remains unclear the impact of Fe 2+ on cadmium (Cd) toxicity to rice (Oryza sativa) seedlings. In this study, the effects of different Fe 2+ and Cd 2+ concentration combinations on rice growth were examined hydroponically. Results indicated that Fe 2+ concentration up to 3.2 mM did not damage rice roots while induced IP formation obviously. Cd 2+ of 10 μM repressed rice growth significantly, while the addition of 0.2 mM Fe 2+ to 10 μM Cd 2+ solution (Cd+Fe) did not damage rice roots, indicating that Fe 2+ could ameliorate Cd toxicity to rice seedlings. Microstructure analysis showed Cd+Fe treatment induced the formation of IP with dense and intricate network structure, Cd adsorption on the root surface was reduced significantly. Cd concentration of rice roots and shoots and Cd translocation from roots to shoots with Fe+Cd treatment were reduced by 34.1%, 36.0% and 20.1%, respectively, in comparison to a single Cd treatment. Noteworthy, the removal of IP resulted in a larger loss of root biomass under Cd treatment. In addition, Cd+Fe treatment increased the activities of root superoxide dismutase and catalase by 105.5% and 177.4%, and decreased H 2 O 2 and O 2 · - accumulation of rice roots by 56.9% and 35.9%, and recovered Cd-triggered electrolyte leakage obviously, when compared with a single Cd treatment. The results from this experiment indicated that the formed dense IP on rice roots decreased Cd absorption and reactive oxygen species accumulation, and Fe 2+ supply alleviated Cd toxicity to rice seedlings. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Prospective evaluation of the utility of routine postoperative cystogram after traumatic bladder injury.

PubMed

Inaba, Kenji; Okoye, Obi T; Browder, Timothy; Best, Charles; Branco, Bernardino C; Teixeira, Pedro G; Barmparas, Galinos; Reddy, Sravanthi; Demetriades, Demetrios

2013-12-01

The value of routinely testing bladder repair integrity with a cystogram before urinary catheter removal is unclear. The purpose of this study was to prospectively evaluate the utility of routine postoperative cystogram after traumatic bladder injury. All patients sustaining a bladder injury requiring operative repair at two Level I trauma centers were prospectively enrolled during a 62-month study period ending on January 2011. Injury demographics, imaging data, and outcomes were extracted. All patients were evaluated with either a plain or a computed tomography cystogram. A total of 127 patients were enrolled (mean [SD] age, 30.4 [13.5] years; blunt trauma, 63.8%, mean [SD] Injury Severity Score [ISS], 17.7 [10.6]). A total of 75 patients (59.1%) had an intraperitoneal (IP) bladder injury, 44 (34.6%) had an extraperitoneal (EP) bladder injury, and 8 had a (6.3%) combined IP/EP bladder injury. All patients with IP and IP/EP injuries (n = 83) underwent operative repair and a postoperative cystogram at 8.6 (1.8) days (range, 5-13 days). Sixty-nine IP injuries (83.1%) were simple (dome or body disruption/penetrating injury), while 14 (16.9%) were complex (trigone/requiring ureter implantation). There were no deaths during the follow-up period. With the exception of one patient (1.2%) with a complex injury requiring ureteric implantation, there were no leaks demonstrated on postoperative cystogram, and the urinary catheters were successfully removed. In this prospective evaluation of the role of bladder evaluation after operative repair, routine use of follow-up cystograms for simple injuries did not impact clinical management. For complex repairs to the trigone or those requiring ureter implantation, a follow-up cystogram should be obtained before catheter removal. Diagnostic study, level II.

Mitochondrial calcium handling within the interstitial cells of Cajal

PubMed Central

Cheng, Leo K.

2014-01-01

The interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC) drive rhythmic pacemaking contractions in the gastrointestinal system. The ICC generate pacemaking signals by membrane depolarizations associated with the release of intracellular calcium (Ca2+) in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) through inositol-trisphosphate (IP3) receptors (IP3R) and uptake by mitochondria (MT). This Ca2+ dynamic is hypothesized to generate pacemaking signals by calibrating ER Ca2+ store depletions and membrane depolarization with ER store-operated Ca2+ entry mechanisms. Using a biophysically based spatio-temporal model of integrated Ca2+ transport in the ICC, we determined the feasibility of ER depletion timescale correspondence with experimentally observed pacemaking frequencies while considering the impact of IP3R Ca2+ release and MT uptake on bulk cytosolic Ca2+ levels because persistent elevations of free intracellular Ca2+ are toxic to the cell. MT densities and distributions are varied in the model geometry to observe MT influence on free cytosolic Ca2+ and the resulting frequencies of ER Ca2+ store depletions, as well as the sarco-endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ ATP-ase (SERCA) and IP3 agonist concentrations. Our simulations show that high MT densities observed in the ICC are more relevant to ER establishing Ca2+ depletion frequencies than protection of the cytosol from elevated free Ca2+, whereas the SERCA pump is more relevant to containing cytosolic Ca2+ elevations. Our results further suggest that the level of IP3 agonist stimulating ER Ca2+ release, subsequent MT uptake, and eventual activation of ER store-operated Ca2+ entry may determine frequencies of rhythmic pacemaking exhibited by the ICC across species and tissue types. PMID:24789203

77 FR 67403 - Notice of Determinations Regarding Eligibility To Apply for Worker Adjustment Assistance

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-11-09

... Impact date 81,857 Cordia IP Corporation, Winter Garden, FL.... August 4, 2011. Cordia Communications Corporation. 81,904 American Showa, Inc., Blanchester, OH...... August 16, 2011. Blanchester Plant, Adecco. 81... Plant- Asheboro, NC......... September 28, 2011. Hyosung USA, On-site Leased Workers from Defender...

Integrating Intellectual Property Concepts into MIS Education: An Empirical Assessment

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mykytyn, Peter P., Jr.; Mykytyn, Kathleen; Harrison, David A.

2005-01-01

The evolving legal environment surrounding intellectual property (IP) and its impact on information systems, especially involving electronic commerce, and the type of education and training provided by management information systems (MIS) faculty to MIS students is a relationship that has not been investigated. Although organizations are…

Role of Ipsdienol, Ipsenol, and cis-Verbenol in chemical ecology of Ips avulsus, Ips calligraphus, and Ips grandicollis (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Scolytinae)

Treesearch

Jeremy D. Allison; Jessica I. McKenney; Daniel R. Miller; Matthew L. Gimmel

2012-01-01

ABSTRACT Stressed or damaged pine (Pinus sp.) trees in the southeastern United States are often colonized simultaneously by three southern Ips species (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Scolytinae): small southern pine engraver, Ips avulsus (Eichhoff); sixspined ips, Ips calligraphus (Germar); and...

How Interplanetary Scintillation Data Can Improve Modeling of Coronal Mass Ejection Propagation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Taktakishvili, A.; Mays, M. L.; Manoharan, P. K.; Rastaetter, L.; Kuznetsova, M. M.

2017-12-01

Coronal mass ejections (CMEs) can have a significant impact on the Earth's magnetosphere-ionosphere system and cause widespread anomalies for satellites from geosynchronous to low-Earth orbit and produce effects such as geomagnetically induced currents. At the NASA/GSFC Community Coordinated Modeling Center we have been using ensemble modeling of CMEs since 2012. In this presnetation we demonstrate that using of interplanetary scintillation (IPS) observations from the Ooty Radio Telescope facility in India can help to track CME propagaion and improve ensemble forecasting of CMEs. The observations of the solar wind density and velocity using IPS from hundreds of distant sources in ensemble modeling of CMEs can be a game-changing improvement of the current state of the art in CME forecasting.

Sustained impact of a short small group course with systematic feedback in addition to regular clinical clerkship activities on musculoskeletal examination skills--a controlled study.

PubMed

Perrig, Martin; Berendonk, Christoph; Rogausch, Anja; Beyeler, Christine

2016-01-28

The discrepancy between the extensive impact of musculoskeletal complaints and the common deficiencies in musculoskeletal examination skills lead to increased emphasis on structured teaching and assessment. However, studies of single interventions are scarce and little is known about the time-dependent effect of assisted learning in addition to a standard curriculum. We therefore evaluated the immediate and long-term impact of a small group course on musculoskeletal examination skills. All 48 Year 4 medical students of a 6 year curriculum, attending their 8 week clerkship of internal medicine at one University department in Berne, participated in this controlled study. Twenty-seven students were assigned to the intervention of a 6×1 h practical course (4-7 students, interactive hands-on examination of real patients; systematic, detailed feedback to each student by teacher, peers and patients). Twenty-one students took part in the regular clerkship activities only and served as controls. In all students clinical skills (CS, 9 items) were assessed in an Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) station, including specific musculoskeletal examination skills (MSES, 7 items) and interpersonal skills (IPS, 2 items). Two raters assessed the skills on a 4-point Likert scale at the beginning (T0), the end (T1) and 4-12 months after (T2) the clerkship. Statistical analyses included Friedman test, Wilcoxon rank sum test and Mann-Whitney U test. At T0 there were no significant differences between the intervention and control group. At T1 and T2 the control group showed no significant changes of CS, MSES and IPS compared to T0. In contrast, the intervention group significantly improved CS, MSES and IPS at T1 (p < 0.001). This enhancement was sustained for CS and MSES (p < 0.05), but not for IPS at T2. Year 4 medical students were incapable of improving their musculoskeletal examination skills during regular clinical clerkship activities. However, an additional small group, interactive clinical skills course with feedback from various sources, improved these essential examination skills immediately after the teaching and several months later. We conclude that supplementary specific teaching activities are needed. Even a single, short-lasting targeted module can have a long lasting effect and is worth the additional effort.

Government Venture Capital: A Case Study of the In-Q-Tel Model

DTIC Science & Technology

2004-03-23

their IP during the contracting process. “The folklore is that the government has a reputation for ‘ poaching ’ technology, either by getting a hook into...the introductions to individuals that can make a significant impact to a company’s business. Often these include members of government, industry...result of an In-Q-Tel-sponsored conference. Company 2 said that In-Q-Tel has made a significant impact by providing high-level introductions at

Doubling the spectrum of time-domain induced polarization by harmonic de-noising, drift correction, spike removal, tapered gating and data uncertainty estimation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Olsson, Per-Ivar; Fiandaca, Gianluca; Larsen, Jakob Juul; Dahlin, Torleif; Auken, Esben

2016-11-01

The extraction of spectral information in the inversion process of time-domain (TD) induced polarization (IP) data is changing the use of the TDIP method. Data interpretation is evolving from a qualitative description of the subsurface, able only to discriminate the presence of contrasts in chargeability parameters, towards a quantitative analysis of the investigated media, which allows for detailed soil- and rock-type characterization. Two major limitations restrict the extraction of the spectral information of TDIP data in the field: (i) the difficulty of acquiring reliable early-time measurements in the millisecond range and (ii) the self-potential background drift in the measured potentials distorting the shape of the late-time IP responses, in the second range. Recent developments in TDIP acquisition equipment have given access to full-waveform recordings of measured potentials and transmitted current, opening for a breakthrough in data processing. For measuring at early times, we developed a new method for removing the significant noise from power lines contained in the data through a model-based approach, localizing the fundamental frequency of the power-line signal in the full-waveform IP recordings. By this, we cancel both the fundamental signal and its harmonics. Furthermore, an efficient processing scheme for identifying and removing spikes in TDIP data was developed. The noise cancellation and the de-spiking allow the use of earlier and narrower gates, down to a few milliseconds after the current turn-off. In addition, tapered windows are used in the final gating of IP data, allowing the use of wider and overlapping gates for higher noise suppression with minimal distortion of the signal. For measuring at late times, we have developed an algorithm for removal of the self-potential drift. Usually constant or linear drift-removal algorithms are used, but these algorithms often fail in removing the background potentials present when the electrodes used for potential readings are previously used for current injection, also for simple contact resistance measurements. We developed a drift-removal scheme that models the polarization effect and efficiently allows for preserving the shape of the IP responses at late times. Uncertainty estimates are essential in the inversion of IP data. Therefore, in the final step of the data processing, we estimate the data standard deviation based on the data variability within the IP gates and the misfit of the background drift removal Overall, the removal of harmonic noise, spikes, self-potential drift, tapered windowing and the uncertainty estimation allows for doubling the usable range of TDIP data to almost four decades in time (corresponding to four decades in frequency), which will significantly advance the applicability of the IP method.

Phosphatidylcholine-specific phospholipase C inhibition reduces HER2-overexpression, cell proliferation and in vivo tumor growth in a highly tumorigenic ovarian cancer model

PubMed Central

Spadaro, Francesca; Abalsamo, Laura; Pisanu, Maria Elena; Ricci, Alessandro; Cecchetti, Serena; Altabella, Luisa; Buoncervello, Maria; Lozneanu, Ludmila; Bagnoli, Marina; Ramoni, Carlo; Canevari, Silvana; Mezzanzanica, Delia

2017-01-01

Antagonizing the oncogenic effects of human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) with current anti-HER2 agents has not yet yielded major progress in the treatment of advanced HER2-positive epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC). Using preclinical models to explore alternative molecular mechanisms affecting HER2 overexpression and oncogenicity may lead to new strategies for EOC patient treatment. We previously reported that phosphatidylcholine-specific phospholipase C (PC-PLC) exerts a pivotal role in regulating HER2 overexpression in breast cancer cells. The present study, conducted on two human HER2-overexpressing EOC cell lines - SKOV3 and its in vivo-passaged SKOV3.ip cell variant characterized by enhanced in vivo tumorigenicity - and on SKOV3.ip xenografts implanted in SCID mice, showed: a) about 2-fold higher PC-PLC and HER2 protein expression levels in SKOV3.ip compared to SKOV3 cells; b) physical association of PC-PLC with HER2 in non-raft domains; c) HER2 internalization and ca. 50% reduction of HER2 mRNA and protein expression levels in SKOV3.ip cells exposed to the PC-PLC inhibitor tricyclodecan-9-yl-potassium xanthate (D609); d) differential effects of D609 and trastuzumab on HER2 protein expression and cell proliferation; e) decreased in vivo tumor growth in SKOV3.ip xenografts during in vivo treatment with D609; f) potential use of in vivo magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) and imaging (MRI) parameters as biomarkers of EOC response to PC-PLC inhibition. Overall, these findings support the view that PC-PLC inhibition may represent an effective means to target the tumorigenic effects of HER2 overexpression in EOC and that in vivo MR approaches can efficiently monitor its effects. PMID:28903399

Oxidative stress in the hippocampus during experimental seizures can be ameliorated with the antioxidant ascorbic acid

PubMed Central

Santos, Ítala Mônica Sales; da Rocha Tomé, Adriana; Saldanha, Gláucio Barros; Ferreira, Paulo Michel Pinheiro; Militão, Gardenia Carmem Gadelha

2009-01-01

Ascorbic acid has many nonenzymatic actions and is a powerful water-soluble antioxidant. It protects low density lipoproteins from oxidation and reduces harmful oxidants in the central nervous system. Pilocarpine-induced seizures have been suggested to be mediated by increases in oxidative stress. Current studies have suggested that antioxidant compounds may afford some level of neuroprotection against the neurotoxicity of seizures. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the neuroprotective effects of ascorbic acid (AA) in rats, against the observed oxidative stress during seizures induced by pilocarpine. Wistar rats were treated with 0.9% saline (i.p., control group), ascorbic acid (500 mg/kg, i.p., AA group), pilocarpine (400 mg/kg, i.p., pilocarpine group), and the association of ascorbic acid (500 mg/kg, i.p.) plus pilocarpine (400 mg/kg, i.p.), 30 min before of administration of ascorbic acid (AA plus pilocarpine group). After the treatments all groups were observed for 6 h. The enzyme activities as well as the lipid peroxidation and nitrite concentrations were measured using spectrophotometric methods and the results compared to values obtained from saline and pilocarpine-treated animals. Protective effects of ascorbic acid were also evaluated on the same parameters. In pilocarpine group there was a significant increase in lipid peroxidation and nitrite level. However, no alteration was observed in superoxide dismutase and catalase activities. Antioxidant treatment significantly reduced the lipid peroxidation level and nitrite content as well as increased the superoxide dismutase and catalase activities in hippocampus of adult rats after seizures induced by pilocarpine. Our findings strongly support the hypothesis that oxidative stress in hippocampus occurs during seizures induced by pilocarpine, proving that brain damage induced by the oxidative process plays a crucial role in seizures pathogenic consequences, and also imply that a strong protective effect could be achieved using ascorbic acid. PMID:20716907

Magnetically assisted intraperitoneal drug delivery for cancer chemotherapy.

PubMed

Shamsi, Milad; Sedaghatkish, Amir; Dejam, Morteza; Saghafian, Mohsen; Mohammadi, Mehdi; Sanati-Nezhad, Amir

2018-11-01

Intraperitoneal (IP) chemotherapy has revived hopes during the past few years for the management of peritoneal disseminations of digestive and gynecological cancers. Nevertheless, a poor drug penetration is one key drawback of IP chemotherapy since peritoneal neoplasms are notoriously resistant to drug penetration. Recent preclinical studies have focused on targeting the aberrant tumor microenvironment to improve intratumoral drug transport. However, tumor stroma targeting therapies have limited therapeutic windows and show variable outcomes across different cohort of patients. Therefore, the development of new strategies for improving the efficacy of IP chemotherapy is a certain need. In this work, we propose a new magnetically assisted strategy to elevate drug penetration into peritoneal tumor nodules and improve IP chemotherapy. A computational model was developed to assess the feasibility and predictability of the proposed active drug delivery method. The key tumor pathophysiology, including a spatially heterogeneous construct of leaky vasculature, nonfunctional lymphatics, and dense extracellular matrix (ECM), was reconstructed in silico. The transport of intraperitoneally injected magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) inside tumors was simulated and compared with the transport of free cytotoxic agents. Our results on magnetically assisted delivery showed an order of magnitude increase in the final intratumoral concentration of drug-coated MNPs with respect to free cytotoxic agents. The intermediate MNPs with the radius range of 200-300 nm yield optimal magnetic drug targeting (MDT) performance in 5-10 mm tumors while the MDT performance remains essentially the same over a large particle radius range of 100-500 nm for a 1 mm radius small tumor. The success of MDT in larger tumors (5-10 mm in radius) was found to be markedly dependent on the choice of magnet strength and tumor-magnet distance while these two parameters were less of a concern in small tumors. We also validated in silico results against experimental results related to tumor interstitial hypertension, conventional IP chemoperfusion, and magnetically actuated movement of MNPs in excised tissue.

Parameter Optimization Analysis of Prolonged Analgesia Effect of tDCS on Neuropathic Pain Rats

PubMed Central

Wen, Hui-Zhong; Gao, Shi-Hao; Zhao, Yan-Dong; He, Wen-Juan; Tian, Xue-Long; Ruan, Huai-Zhen

2017-01-01

Background: Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is widely used to treat human nerve disorders and neuropathic pain by modulating the excitability of cortex. The effectiveness of tDCS is influenced by its stimulation parameters, but there have been no systematic studies to help guide the selection of different parameters. Objective: This study aims to assess the effects of tDCS of primary motor cortex (M1) on chronic neuropathic pain in rats and to test for the optimal parameter combinations for analgesia. Methods: Using the chronic neuropathic pain models of chronic constriction injury (CCI), we measured pain thresholds before and after anodal-tDCS (A-tDCS) using different parameter conditions, including stimulation intensity, stimulation time, intervention time and electrode located (ipsilateral or contralateral M1 of the ligated paw on male/female CCI models). Results: Following the application of A-tDCS over M1, we observed that the antinociceptive effects were depended on different parameters. First, we found that repetitive A-tDCS had a longer analgesic effect than single stimulus, and both ipsilateral-tDCS (ip-tDCS) and contralateral-tDCS (con-tDCS) produce a long-lasting analgesic effect on neuropathic pain. Second, the antinociceptive effects were intensity-dependent and time-dependent, high intensities worked better than low intensities and long stimulus durations worked better than short stimulus durations. Third, timing of the intervention after injury affected the stimulation outcome, early use of tDCS was an effective method to prevent the development of pain, and more frequent intervention induced more analgesia in CCI rats, finally, similar antinociceptive effects of con- and ip-tDCS were observed in both sexes of CCI rats. Conclusion: Optimized protocols of tDCS for treating antinociceptive effects were developed. These findings should be taken into consideration when using tDCS to produce analgesic effects in clinical applications. PMID:28659772

Initiatives in Non-Solenoidal Startup and H-mode Physics at Near-Unity A

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bongard, M. W.; Barr, J. L.; Burke, M. G.; Fonck, R. J.; Hinson, E. T.; Lewicki, B. T.; Perry, J. M.; Redd, A. J.; Schlossberg, D. J.; Thome, K. E.; Winz, G. R.

2014-10-01

Research on the A ~ 1 Pegasus ST is advancing the physics of non-solenoidal tokamak startup and the H-mode confinement regime. Local helicity injection (LHI) uses current sources in the plasma edge to initiate and drive Ip via DC helicity injection, subject to constraints from helicity conservation and Taylor relaxation. To date, Ip ~ 0 . 18 MA has been initiated with Iinj ~ 6 kA. A predictive 0-D power balance model of LHI Ip (t) evolution matches present discharges with strong PF induction. It projects Ip ~ 0 . 3 MA operation in Pegasus will achieve the LHI-dominated physics regime expected for 1 MA NSTX-U startup. Ohmic H-mode plasmas are routinely attained, due to the low Pth at the low BT of A --> 1 plasmas. However, both limited and favorable ∇B SN plasmas have Pth ~ 11 times higher than expected from high- A scalings. They have improved τe (H98 ~ 1) and a quiescent Jedge pedestal between edge localized modes (ELMs). Unique Jedge (t) measurements through a single Type I ELM show a complex, multimodal pedestal collapse and filament ejection. A proposed Pegasus-U initiative will upgrade the centerstack assembly and LHI injector systems, increasing BT to 1 T, Ohmic V-s by × 6 , and pulse length to 100 ms at A = 1 . 2 . This allows the physics and technology of LHI to be validated at NSTX-U relevant parameters, supports studies of nonlinear ELM dynamics, and will test high-βT tokamak stability. Work supported by US DOE Grant DE-FG02-96ER54375.

Ozil IP torsional mode versus combined torsional/longitudinal microcoaxial phacoemulsification.

PubMed

Helvacioglu, Firat; Tunc, Zeki; Yeter, Celal; Oguzhan, Hasan; Sencan, Sadik

2012-01-01

To compare the safety and efficacy of microcoaxial phacoemulsification surgeries performed with the Ozil Intelligent Phaco (IP) torsional mode and combined torsional/longitudinal ultrasound (US) mode using the Infiniti Vision System (Alcon Laboratories). In this prospective randomized comparative study, 60 eyes were assigned to 2.2-mm microcoaxial phacoemulsification using the Ozil IP torsional mode (group 1) or combined torsional/longitudinal US mode (group 2). The primary outcome measures were US time (UST), cumulative dissipated energy (CDE), longitudinal and torsional ultrasound amplitudes, mean operation time, mean volume of balanced salt solution (BSS) used, and surgical complications. Both groups included 30 eyes. Mean UST, CDE, and longitudinal and torsional ultrasound amplitudes in group 1 were 1 minute 15±34.33 seconds, 8.74±5.64, 0.43±0.74, and 25.56±8.56, respectively, and these parameters in group 2 were 1 minute 40±51.44 seconds, 9.28±5.99, 3.64±1.55, and 3.71±1.34, respectively. UST and longitudinal amplitudes were found to be significantly low in group 1 (p<0.001, p<0.001), whereas torsional amplitude was found to be significantly high in this group (p=0.001). Mean volumes of BSS used in groups 1 and 2 were 63.30±18.00 cc and 84.50±28.65 cc, respectively (p=0.001). The Ozil IP torsional mode may provide more effective lens removal than the combined torsional/longitudinal US mode with a lower UST and volume of BSS used.

Body size-adjusted dose analysis of pirfenidone in patients with interstitial pneumonia.

PubMed

Uehara, Masahiro; Enomoto, Noriyuki; Oyama, Yoshiyuki; Suzuki, Yuzo; Kono, Masato; Furuhashi, Kazuki; Fujisawa, Tomoyuki; Inui, Naoki; Nakamura, Yutaro; Suda, Takafumi

2018-03-01

Pirfenidone is an effective anti-fibrotic agent for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Although adverse events (AE) sometimes prevent patients from continuing treatment, current dose adjustment guidance does not consider patient body size or weight (BW). The aim of this study was to evaluate the importance of pirfenidone dose adjustment by body surface area (BSA) or BW for preventing AE and permitting continuous treatment in patients with interstitial pneumonia (IP). Sixty-seven Japanese patients with IP including 46 patients with IPF treated with pirfenidone between 2009 and 2015 were retrospectively evaluated. Pirfenidone doses were adjusted by BSA or BW and were compared with clinical parameters. Forty-two of 67 patients (62.7%) with IP showed AE, most commonly gastrointestinal symptoms (77.5%). Patients having AE received significantly higher adjusted doses of pirfenidone by both BSA and BW (P = 0.024 and P = 0.010, respectively), while unadjusted doses did not differ. BSA-adjusted dose discriminated patients with AE from those without (area under the curve = 0.666 at 1085 mg/m 2 ). Six of seven patients (85.7%) who discontinued pirfenidone due to AE took ≥1085 mg/m 2 of pirfenidone. In a subgroup with IPF, patients taking a medium dose (median: 876 median-1085 mg/m 2 ) showed a lower annual decline in % forced vital capacity than patients taking a lower dose (P = 0.025). BSA-adjusted pirfenidone dosing may be useful to prevent AE whilst achieving a long-term treatment effect in patients with IP. © 2017 Asian Pacific Society of Respirology.

Antiretroviral pharmacokinetics in mothers and breastfeeding infants from 6 to 24 weeks post partum: results of the BAN Study

PubMed Central

Corbett, Amanda H; Kayira, Dumbani; White, Nicole R; Davis, Nicole L; Kourtis, Athena P; Chasela, Charles; Martinson, Francis; Phiri, Grace; Musisi, Bonaface; Kamwendo, Deborah; Hudgens, Michael G; Hosseinipour, Mina C; Nelson, Julie AE; Ellington, Sascha R; Jamieson, Denise J; van der Horst, Charles; Kashuba, Angela

2014-01-01

Background An intensive, prospective, open-label pharmacokinetic (PK) study in a subset of HIV-infected mothers and their uninfected infants enrolled in the Breastfeeding, Antiretroviral, and Nutrition study was performed to describe drug exposure and antiviral response. Methods Women using Combivir®[zidovudine (ZDV)+ lamivudine (3TC)]+Aluvia®[lopinavir/ritonavir(LPV/RTV)] were enrolled. Breast milk (BM) and mother and infant plasma (MP, IP) samples were obtained over 6hrs after observed dosing at 6, 12, or 24wks post-partum for drug concentrations and HIV RNA. Results 30 mother/infant pairs (10 each at 6, 12,and 24wks post-partum) were enrolled. Relative to MP, BM concentrations of ZDV and 3TC were 35% and 21% higher, while LPV and RTV were 80% lower. Only 3TC was detected in IP with concentrations 96% and 98% lower than MP and BM, respectively. Concentrations in all matrices were similar at 6-24wks. The majority (98.3%) of BM concentrations were >HIVwt IC50, with one having detectable virus. There was no association between PK parameters and MP or BM HIV RNA. Conclusions ZDV and 3TC concentrated in BM while LPV and RTV did not, possibly due to protein binding and drug transporter affinity. Undetectable to low ARV concentrations in IP suggests prevention of transmission while breast feeding may be due to ARV effects on systemic or BM HIV RNA in the mother. Low IP 3TC exposure may predispose an infected infant to HIV resistance, necessitating testing and treating infants early. PMID:24464632

Peripheral blood cytokine and chemokine profiles in juvenile localized scleroderma: T-helper cell-associated cytokine profiles.

PubMed

Torok, Kathryn S; Kurzinski, Katherine; Kelsey, Christina; Yabes, Jonathan; Magee, Kelsey; Vallejo, Abbe N; Medsger, Thomas; Feghali-Bostwick, Carol A

2015-12-01

To evaluate peripheral blood T-helper (TH) cell-associated cytokine and chemokine profiles in localized scleroderma (LS), and correlate them with clinical disease features, including disease activity parameters. A 29-plex Luminex platform was used to analyze the humoral profile of plasma samples from 69 pediatric LS patients and 71 healthy pediatric controls. Cytokine/chemokine levels were compared between these two groups and within LS patients, focusing on validated clinical outcome measures of disease activity and damage in LS. Plasma levels of IP-10, MCP-1, IL-17a, IL-12p70, GM-CSF, PDGF-bb, IFN-α2, and IFN-γ were significantly higher in LS subjects compared to healthy controls. Analysis within the LS group demonstrated IP-10, TNF-α, and GM-CSF correlated with clinical measures of disease activity. Several cytokines/chemokines correlated with anti-histone antibody, while only a few correlated with positive ANA and single-stranded DNA antibody. This is the first time that multiple cytokines and chemokines have been examined simultaneously in LS. In general, a TH1 (IFN-γ) and TH17 (IL-17a) predominance was demonstrated in LS compared to healthy controls. There is also an IFN-γ signature with elevated IP-10, MCP-1, and IFN-γ, which has been previously demonstrated in systemic sclerosis, suggesting a shared pathophysiology. Within the LS patients, those with active disease demonstrated IP-10, TNF-α, and GM-CSF, which may potentially serve as biomarkers of disease activity in the clinical setting. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

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

PubMed

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

2018-06-01

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

Examining Correlates of Problematic Internet Pornography Use Among University Students

PubMed Central

Harper, Cody; Hodgins, David C.

2016-01-01

Background and aims The phenomenon of Internet pornography (IP) addiction is gainingincreasing attention in the popular media and psychological research. What has not been tested empirically is how frequency and amount ofIP use, along with other individual characteristics, are related tosymptoms of IP addiction. Methods 105 female and 86 male university students (mean age 21) from Calgary,Canada, were administered measures of IP use, psychosocial functioning (anxiety and depression, life and relationship satisfaction), addictivepropensities, and addictive IP use. Results Men reported earlier age of exposure and more frequent current IP use than women. Individuals not in relationships reported more frequent use than those in relationships. Frequency of IP use wasnot generally correlated with psychosocial functioning but was significantly positively correlated with level of IP addiction. Higher level of IP addiction was associated with poorer psychosocial functioning and problematic alcohol, cannabis, gambling and, in particular, video game use. A curvilinear association was found between frequency of IP use and level of addiction such that daily or greater IP use was associated with a sharp rise in addictive IP scores. Discussion The failure to find a strong significant relationship between IP use and general psychosocial functioning suggests that the overall effect of IP use is not necessarily harmful in and of itself. Addictiveuse of IP, which is associated with poorer psychosocial functioning, emerges when people begin to use IP daily. PMID:27156383

ChIP and ChIP-Related Techniques: Expanding the Fields of Application and Improving ChIP Performance.

PubMed

Visa, Neus; Jordán-Pla, Antonio

2018-01-01

Protein-DNA interactions in vivo can be detected and quantified by chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP). ChIP has been instrumental for the advancement of epigenetics and has set the groundwork for the development of a number of ChIP-related techniques that have provided valuable information about the organization and function of genomes. Here, we provide an introduction to ChIP and discuss the applications of ChIP in different research areas. We also review some of the strategies that have been devised to improve ChIP performance.

The prevalence of human papillomavirus infection in Iranian patients with sinonasal inverted papilloma.

PubMed

Jalilvand, Somayeh; Saidi, Masoumeh; Shoja, Zabihollah; Ghavami, Nastaran; Hamkar, Rasool

2016-03-01

Inverted papilloma (IP) is an uncommon disease which arises in the mucosal membrane of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinus. It has been proposed that human papillomavirus (HPV) is the causal agent in the pathogenesis of IP and plays a key role in the progression from benign IP to malignancy. As there are no prior studies that focus on an Iranian population, this study intended to characterize the prevalence of HPV types in benign and malignant forms of IP. In this retrospective study, we included a total of 40 IP patients [37 benign IP and 3 IP/squamous cell carcinoma (SCC)] who were referred to Amiralam Hospital in Tehran from 2004-2006. HPV was detected in 18.9% and 100% of IP and IP/SCC cases, respectively. In all HPV positive cases of IP and IP/SCC cases, HPV6/11 and HPV16/18 were detected, respectively. Therefore, HPV types were different between the IP and IP/SCC patients, and this difference was statistically significant (p = 0.002). This study suggests that HPV6 and 11 may be involved in the development of IP, but HPV16 and 18 likely play an important role in the progression from benign to malignant form of IP. Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier Taiwan LLC.

KChIP2 genotype dependence of transient outward current (Ito) properties in cardiomyocytes isolated from male and female mice

PubMed Central

Waldschmidt, Lara; Junkereit, Vera; Bähring, Robert

2017-01-01

The transient outward current (Ito) in cardiomyocytes is largely mediated by Kv4 channels associated with Kv Channel Interacting Protein 2 (KChIP2). A knockout model has documented the critical role of KChIP2 in Ito expression. The present study was conducted to characterize in both sexes the dependence of Ito properties, including current magnitude, inactivation kinetics, recovery from inactivation and voltage dependence of inactivation, on the number of functional KChIP2 alleles. For this purpose we performed whole-cell patch-clamp experiments on isolated left ventricular cardiomyocytes from male and female mice which had different KChIP2 genotypes; i.e., wild-type (KChIP2+/+), heterozygous knockout (KChIP2+/-) or complete knockout of KChIP2 (KChIP2-/-). We found in both sexes a KChIP2 gene dosage effect (i.e., a proportionality between number of alleles and phenotype) on Ito magnitude, however, concerning other Ito properties, KChIP2+/- resembled KChIP2+/+. Only in the total absence of KChIP2 (KChIP2-/-) we observed a slowing of Ito kinetics, a slowing of recovery from inactivation and a negative shift of a portion of the voltage dependence of inactivation. In a minor fraction of KChIP2-/- myocytes Ito was completely lost. The distinct KChIP2 genotype dependences of Ito magnitude and inactivation kinetics, respectively, seen in cardiomyocytes were reproduced with two-electrode voltage-clamp experiments on Xenopus oocytes expressing Kv4.2 and different amounts of KChIP2. Our results corroborate the critical role of KChIP2 in controlling Ito properties. They demonstrate that the Kv4.2/KChIP2 interaction in cardiomyocytes is highly dynamic, with a clear KChIP2 gene dosage effect on Kv4 channel surface expression but not on inactivation gating. PMID:28141821

KChIP2 genotype dependence of transient outward current (Ito) properties in cardiomyocytes isolated from male and female mice.

PubMed

Waldschmidt, Lara; Junkereit, Vera; Bähring, Robert

2017-01-01

The transient outward current (Ito) in cardiomyocytes is largely mediated by Kv4 channels associated with Kv Channel Interacting Protein 2 (KChIP2). A knockout model has documented the critical role of KChIP2 in Ito expression. The present study was conducted to characterize in both sexes the dependence of Ito properties, including current magnitude, inactivation kinetics, recovery from inactivation and voltage dependence of inactivation, on the number of functional KChIP2 alleles. For this purpose we performed whole-cell patch-clamp experiments on isolated left ventricular cardiomyocytes from male and female mice which had different KChIP2 genotypes; i.e., wild-type (KChIP2+/+), heterozygous knockout (KChIP2+/-) or complete knockout of KChIP2 (KChIP2-/-). We found in both sexes a KChIP2 gene dosage effect (i.e., a proportionality between number of alleles and phenotype) on Ito magnitude, however, concerning other Ito properties, KChIP2+/- resembled KChIP2+/+. Only in the total absence of KChIP2 (KChIP2-/-) we observed a slowing of Ito kinetics, a slowing of recovery from inactivation and a negative shift of a portion of the voltage dependence of inactivation. In a minor fraction of KChIP2-/- myocytes Ito was completely lost. The distinct KChIP2 genotype dependences of Ito magnitude and inactivation kinetics, respectively, seen in cardiomyocytes were reproduced with two-electrode voltage-clamp experiments on Xenopus oocytes expressing Kv4.2 and different amounts of KChIP2. Our results corroborate the critical role of KChIP2 in controlling Ito properties. They demonstrate that the Kv4.2/KChIP2 interaction in cardiomyocytes is highly dynamic, with a clear KChIP2 gene dosage effect on Kv4 channel surface expression but not on inactivation gating.

Anticonvulsant activity of Cotyledon orbiculata L. (Crassulaceae) leaf extract in mice.

PubMed

Amabeoku, G J; Green, I; Kabatende, J

2007-05-30

The anticonvulsant activity of Cotyledon orbiculata L. (Crassulaceae) was investigated by studying the effects of both aqueous and methanol extracts of the plant species on seizures induced by pentylenetetrazole, bicuculline, picrotoxin and N-methyl-dl-aspartic in mice. Aqueous extract of Cotyledon orbiculata (50-400mg/kg, i.p.) and methanol extract (100-400mg/kg, i.p.) significantly prolonged the onset of tonic seizures induced by pentylenetetrazole (95mg/kg, i.p.). Methanol extract (400mg/kg, i.p.) also significantly reduced the incidence of the seizures. One hundred to two hundred milligrams/kilogram (i.p.) of aqueous extract of Cotyledon orbiculata significantly delayed the onset of the tonic seizures induced by bicuculline (40mg/kg, i.p.), picrotoxin (12mg/kg, i.p.) and N-methyl-dl-aspartic acid (NMDLA, 400mg/kg, i.p.). Similarly, methanol extract (100-400mg/kg, i.p.) significantly delayed the onset of the tonic seizures induced by bicuculline (40mg/kg, i.p.) and picrotoxin (12mg/kg, i.p.) while 100mg/kg (i.p.) significantly delayed the onset of N-methyl-dl-aspartic acid (NMDLA, 400mg/kg, i.p.)-induced seizures. Methanol extract (200mg/kg, i.p.) significantly reduced the incidence of the seizures induced by bicuculline (40mg/kg, i.p.). Phenobarbitone (12mg/kg, i.p.) and diazepam (0.5mg/kg, i.p.) effectively antagonized only seizures induced by PTZ (95mg/kg, i.p.), bicuculline (40mg/kg, i.p.) and picrotoxin (12mg/kg, i.p.). Phenytoin (30mg/kg, i.p.) did not affect any of the seizures to any significant extent. The data obtained suggest that both aqueous and methanol extracts of Cotyledon orbiculata have anticonvulsant property and may probably be affecting both gabaergic and glutaminergic mechanisms to exert its effect. The phytochemical analysis carried out revealed the presence of cardiac glycosides, saponins, tannins, reducing sugar and triterpene steroids in the plant extract.

Phorbol 12,13-dibutyrate and 1-oleyl-2-acetyldiacylglycerol stimulate inositol trisphosphate dephosphorylation in human platelets

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

Molina y Vedia, L.M.; Lapetina, E.G.

1986-08-15

Inositol trisphosphate (IP3) is formed in response to specific agonists that cause activation of phospholipase C and degradation of phosphatidylinositol bisphosphate. IP3 is a second messenger that releases Ca/sup 2 +/ from the dense tubular system to the cytosol in stimulated platelets. Our present information indicates that (/sup 3/H)IP3 is dephosphorylated to (/sup 3/H)inositol bisphosphate (IP2) and (/sup 3/H)inositol monophosphate (IP) by human platelets treated with 0.05-0.10% Triton X-100. This dephosphorylation of (/sup 3/H)IP3 to (/sup 3/H)IP2 and (/sup 3/H)IP is also observed when platelets are permeabilized by electrical stimulation or by 20 micrograms/ml saponin. These detergents or electropermeabilization allowmore » IP3 to access cytosolic IP3 phosphatase. Pretreatment of intact platelets with phorbol dibutyrate and 1-oleyl-2-acetyldiacylglycerol for 30 s, at concentrations that maximally activate protein kinase C, stimulates the conversion of IP3 to IP2 and IP. This suggests a role for protein kinase C in the regulation of IP3 degradation.« less

IPS Space Weather Research: Korea-Japan-UCSD

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-04-27

SUBJECT TERMS Solar Physics , Solar Wind, interplanetary scintillation 16. SECURITY CLASSIFICATION OF: 17. LIMITATION OF ABSTRACT SAR 18. NUMBER...Institution : Center for Astrophysics and space science (CASS), University of California, San Diego (UCSD) - Mailing Address : 9500 Gilman Dr. #0424...the physical parameters like solar wind velocities and densities. This is the one of the unique way to observer the solar wind from the earth. The

Telemetry Standards, RCC Standard 106-17, Chapter 27, RF Network Access Layer

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-07-01

27-13 27.5.5 Frame Check Sequence Field........................................................................... 27-13 27.6 Power Transients...to the physical media (i.e., the wireless RF network). On the transmission side, it is responsible for framing IP packets for physical transmission...parameters of a radio shall be stored to maintain communications with RF link management after a power interruption or software-initiated reset

Chemical and toxicological evaluation of methanol extract of Cuscuta reflexa Roxb. stem and Corchorus olitorius Linn. seed on hematological parameters and hepatorenal functions in mice.

PubMed

Mazumder, Upal Kanti; Gupta, Malaya; Pal, Dilipkumar; Bhattacharya, Shiladitya

2003-01-01

Methanol extract of Cuscuta reflexa Roxb. stem (MECR) contain flavonoids (0.2%) and Corchorus olitorius Linn. seed (MECO) was found to contain steroids and cardenolide glycosides. Effects of multiple weekly dose of MECR (25, 50, 75 mg/kg, i.p.) and MECO (15, 20, 25 mg/kg, i.p.) on liver and kidney functions and hematological parameters in mice were studied. No significant alteration of RBC count and hemoglobin content was observed in all dose level of treatment in MECR and MECO treated mice whereas significant increase of clotting time was seen in moderate and high doses in both case. MECR and MECO both caused significant increase in WBC count only in high dose level of treatment. Both the extracts in medium and high dose level increased SGOT, SGPT, NPN and plasma cholesterol significantly. Serum alkaline phosphatase and total bilirubin were also increased by both moderate and high dose level of treatments in MECR and MECO treated mice respectively. Low dose of both the extract did not exhibit any significant change of creatinine and serum protein level. But high dose level of MECR and MECO significantly increased creatinine level. Increase in plasma cholesterol may be due to decrease in cholesterol catabolism owing to liver dysfunction of due to the intake of MECO itself as it was found to be steroid in nature. Elevated level of SGOT, SGPT and serum alkaline phosphatase activity in moderate and high dose level of weekly treated mice may be due to improper liver function following the treatment. Increased urea, non protein nitrogen and creatinine content in blood have been observed with impaired renal function. The slightly higher toxicity in case of MECO treated mice may be due to the presence of cardenolide glycosides in the ME of C. olitorius seed. However, low doses of MECR and MECO (25 and 15 mg/kg, i.p. respectively) did not exhibit any remarkable change on liver and kidney functions and hematological parameters.

IP3-mediated gating mechanism of the IP3 receptor revealed by mutagenesis and X-ray crystallography.

PubMed

Hamada, Kozo; Miyatake, Hideyuki; Terauchi, Akiko; Mikoshiba, Katsuhiko

2017-05-02

The inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP 3 ) receptor (IP 3 R) is an IP 3 -gated ion channel that releases calcium ions (Ca 2+ ) from the endoplasmic reticulum. The IP 3 -binding sites in the large cytosolic domain are distant from the Ca 2+ conducting pore, and the allosteric mechanism of how IP 3 opens the Ca 2+ channel remains elusive. Here, we identify a long-range gating mechanism uncovered by channel mutagenesis and X-ray crystallography of the large cytosolic domain of mouse type 1 IP 3 R in the absence and presence of IP 3 Analyses of two distinct space group crystals uncovered an IP 3 -dependent global translocation of the curvature α-helical domain interfacing with the cytosolic and channel domains. Mutagenesis of the IP 3 R channel revealed an essential role of a leaflet structure in the α-helical domain. These results suggest that the curvature α-helical domain relays IP 3 -controlled global conformational dynamics to the channel through the leaflet, conferring long-range allosteric coupling from IP 3 binding to the Ca 2+ channel.

Briefer assessment of social network drinking: A test of the Important People Instrument-5 (IP-5).

PubMed

Hallgren, Kevin A; Barnett, Nancy P

2016-12-01

The Important People instrument (IP; Longabaugh et al., 2010) is one of the most commonly used measures of social network drinking. Although its reliability and validity are well-supported, the length of the instrument may limit its use in many settings. The present study evaluated whether a briefer, 5-person version of the IP (IP-5) adequately reproduces scores from the full IP. College freshmen (N = 1,053) reported their own past-month drinking, alcohol-related consequences, and information about drinking in their close social networks at baseline and 1 year later. From this we derived network members' drinking frequency, percentage of drinkers, and percentage of heavy drinkers, assessed for up to 10 (full IP) or 5 (IP-5) network members. We first modeled the expected concordance between full-IP scores and scores from simulated shorter IP instruments by sampling smaller subsets of network members from full IP data. Then, using quasi-experimental methods, we administered the full IP and IP-5 and compared the 2 instruments' score distributions and concurrent and year-lagged associations with participants' alcohol consumption and consequences. Most of the full-IP variance was reproduced from simulated shorter versions of the IP (ICCs ≥ 0.80). The full IP and IP-5 yielded similar score distributions, concurrent associations with drinking (r = 0.22 to 0.52), and year-lagged associations with drinking. The IP-5 retains most of the information about social network drinking from the full IP. The shorter instrument may be useful in clinical and research settings that require frequent measure administration, yielding greater temporal resolution for monitoring social network drinking. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2017 APA, all rights reserved).

Inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor regulates replication, differentiation, infectivity and virulence of the parasitic protist Trypanosoma cruzi.

PubMed

Hashimoto, Muneaki; Enomoto, Masahiro; Morales, Jorge; Kurebayashi, Nagomi; Sakurai, Takashi; Hashimoto, Tetsuo; Nara, Takeshi; Mikoshiba, Katsuhiko

2013-03-01

In animals, inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors (IP3 Rs) are ion channels that play a pivotal role in many biological processes by mediating Ca(2+) release from the endoplasmic reticulum. Here, we report the identification and characterization of a novel IP3 R in the parasitic protist, Trypanosoma cruzi, the pathogen responsible for Chagas disease. DT40 cells lacking endogenous IP3 R genes expressing T. cruzi IP3 R (TcIP3 R) exhibited IP3 -mediated Ca(2+) release from the ER, and demonstrated receptor binding to IP3 . TcIP3 R was expressed throughout the parasite life cycle but the expression level was much lower in bloodstream trypomastigotes than in intracellular amastigotes or epimastigotes. Disruption of two of the three TcIP3 R gene loci led to the death of the parasite, suggesting that IP3 R is essential for T. cruzi. Parasites expressing reduced or increased levels of TcIP3 R displayed defects in growth, transformation and infectivity, indicating that TcIP3 R is an important regulator of the parasite's life cycle. Furthermore, mice infected with T. cruzi expressing reduced levels of TcIP3 R exhibited a reduction of disease symptoms, indicating that TcIP3 R is an important virulence factor. Combined with the fact that the primary structure of TcIP3 R has low similarity to that of mammalian IP3 Rs, TcIP3 R is a promising drug target for Chagas disease. © 2013 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

ChIP-seq.

PubMed

Kim, Tae Hoon; Dekker, Job

2018-05-01

Owing to its digital nature, ChIP-seq has become the standard method for genome-wide ChIP analysis. Using next-generation sequencing platforms (notably the Illumina Genome Analyzer), millions of short sequence reads can be obtained. The densities of recovered ChIP sequence reads along the genome are used to determine the binding sites of the protein. Although a relatively small amount of ChIP DNA is required for ChIP-seq, the current sequencing platforms still require amplification of the ChIP DNA by ligation-mediated PCR (LM-PCR). This protocol, which involves linker ligation followed by size selection, is the standard ChIP-seq protocol using an Illumina Genome Analyzer. The size-selected ChIP DNA is amplified by LM-PCR and size-selected for the second time. The purified ChIP DNA is then loaded into the Genome Analyzer. The ChIP DNA can also be processed in parallel for ChIP-chip results. © 2018 Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Press.

Examining Correlates of Problematic Internet Pornography Use Among University Students.

PubMed

Harper, Cody; Hodgins, David C

2016-06-01

Background and aims The phenomenon of Internet pornography (IP) addiction is gainingincreasing attention in the popular media and psychological research.What has not been tested empirically is how frequency and amount ofIP use, along with other individual characteristics, are related tosymptoms of IP addiction. Methods 105 female and 86 male university students (mean age 21) from Calgary,Canada, were administered measures of IP use, psychosocial functioning(anxiety and depression, life and relationship satisfaction), addictivepropensities, and addictive IP use. Results Men reported earlier age of exposure and more frequent currentIP use than women. Individuals not in relationships reported morefrequent use than those in relationships. Frequency of IP use wasnot generally correlated with psychosocial functioning but was significantlypositively correlated with level of IP addiction. Higher level ofIP addiction was associated with poorer psychosocial functioning andproblematic alcohol, cannabis, gambling and, in particular, videogame use. A curvilinear association was found between frequency ofIP use and level of addiction such that daily or greater IP use wasassociated with a sharp rise in addictive IP scores. Discussion The failure to find a strong significant relationship between IPuse and general psychosocial functioning suggests that the overalleffect of IP use is not necessarily harmful in and of itself. Addictiveuse of IP, which is associated with poorer psychosocial functioning,emerges when people begin to use IP daily.

Effects of an Interprofessional Project on Students' Perspectives on Interprofessional Education and Knowledge of Health Disciplines

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Jutte, Lisa S.; Browne, Fredrick R.; Reynolds, Marie

2016-01-01

Context: Interprofessional education (IPE) is encouraged in health care education in the hope that it will improve communication among future health care professionals. In response, health professional education programs are developing IPE curricula. Objective: To determine if a multicourse interprofessional (IP) project impacted students'…

Cytokines in CSF correlate with HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders in the post-HAART era in China

PubMed Central

Yuan, Lin; Qiao, Luxin; Wei, Feili; Yin, Jiming; Liu, Lifeng; Ji, Yunxia; Smith, Davey; Li, Ning

2015-01-01

In the current era of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART), the incidence of HIV dementia has declined, but the prevalence of HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder (HAND) remains high. HIV-induced systemic and localized inflammation is considered to be one of the mechanisms of HAND. Changes in cytokine levels in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) during HIV infection might help to identify HAND. To investigate whether the cytokine profile of the CSF during HIV infection could be used as a biomarker of HAND, we compared cytokine levels in the CSF of HIV-infected cases with and without neurocognitive impairment. Cytokine concentrations in the CSF were measured by quantification bioassays (Luminex xMAP). HIV-infected cases with neurocognitive impairment demonstrated higher levels of interleukin (IL)-8, monocyte chemotactic protein (MCP)-1, induced protein (IP)-10, and granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) in the CSF than those without neurocognitive impairment (G-CSF (p=0.0003), IL-8 (p=0.0046), IP-10 (p<0.0001), and MCP-1 (p<0.0001)). There was no significant impact of HAART on cytokine levels in the CSF, except for IP-10, which was higher in HAART-treated patients with impaired cognition (p=0.0182). Findings from this preliminary study suggest that elevated levels of the cytokines IL-8, MCP-1, G-CSF, and IP-10 in the CSF are associated with neurocognitive impairment in HIV infection, and these cytokines likely represent a biomarker profile for HAND. PMID:23389619

Strong incidence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa on bacterial rrs and ITS genetic structures of cystic fibrosis sputa

PubMed Central

Pages-Monteiro, Laurence; Marti, Romain; Commun, Carine; Alliot, Nolwenn; Bardel, Claire; Meugnier, Helene; Perouse-de-Montclos, Michele; Reix, Philippe; Durieu, Isabelle; Durupt, Stephane; Vandenesch, Francois; Freney, Jean; Cournoyer, Benoit; Doleans-Jordheim, Anne

2017-01-01

Cystic fibrosis (CF) lungs harbor a complex community of interacting microbes, including pathogens like Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Meta-taxogenomic analysis based on V5-V6 rrs PCR products of 52 P. aeruginosa-positive (Pp) and 52 P. aeruginosa-negative (Pn) pooled DNA extracts from CF sputa suggested positive associations between P. aeruginosa and Stenotrophomonas and Prevotella, but negative ones with Haemophilus, Neisseria and Burkholderia. Internal Transcribed Spacer analyses (RISA) from individual DNA extracts identified three significant genetic structures within the CF cohorts, and indicated an impact of P. aeruginosa. RISA clusters Ip and IIIp contained CF sputa with a P. aeruginosa prevalence above 93%, and of 24.2% in cluster IIp. Clusters Ip and IIIp showed lower RISA genetic diversity and richness than IIp. Highly similar cluster IIp RISA profiles were obtained from two patients harboring isolates of a same P. aeruginosa clone, suggesting convergent evolution in the structure of their microbiota. CF patients of cluster IIp had received significantly less antibiotics than patients of clusters Ip and IIIp but harbored the most resistant P. aeruginosa strains. Patients of cluster IIIp were older than those of Ip. The effects of P. aeruginosa on the RISA structures could not be fully dissociated from the above two confounding factors but several trends in these datasets support the conclusion of a strong incidence of P. aeruginosa on the genetic structure of CF lung microbiota. PMID:28282386

MSFC institutional area network and ATM technology

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Amin, Ashok T.

1994-01-01

The New Institutional Area Network (NEWIAN) at Marshall supports over 5000 end users with access to 26 file servers providing work presentation services. It is comprised of some 150 Ethernet LAN's interconnected by bridges/routers which are in turn connected to servers over two dual FDDI rings. The network supports various higher level protocols such as IP, IPX, AppleTalk (AT), and DECNet. At present IPX and AT protocols packets are routed, and IP protocol packets are bridged; however, work is in progress to route all IP packets. The impact of routing IP packets on network operation is examined. Broadband Integrated Services Data Network (BISDN), presently at various stages of development, is intended to provide voice, video, and data transfer services over a single network. BISDN will use asynchronous transfer mode (ATM) as a data transfer technique which provides for transmission, multiplexing, switching, and relaying of small size data units called cells. Limited ATM Wide Area Network (WAN) services are offered by Wiltel, AT&T, Sprint, and others. NASA is testing a pilot ATM WAN with a view to provide Program Support Communication Network services using ATM. ATM supports wide range of data rates and quality of service requirements. It is expected that ATM switches will penetrate campus networks as well. However, presently products in these areas are at various stages of development and standards are not yet complete. We examine development of ATM to help assess its role in the evolution of NEWIAN.

Improving management performance of P2PSIP for mobile sensing in wireless overlays.

PubMed

Sendín-Raña, Pablo; González-Castaño, Francisco Javier; Gómez-Cuba, Felipe; Asorey-Cacheda, Rafael; Pousada-Carballo, José María

2013-11-08

Future wireless communications are heading towards an all-Internet Protocol (all-IP) design, and will rely on the Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) to manage services, such as voice over IP (VoIP). The centralized architecture of traditional SIP has numerous disadvantages for mobile ad hoc services that may be possibly overcome by advanced peer-to-peer (P2P) technologies initially developed for the Internet. In the context of mobile sensing, P2PSIP protocols facilitate decentralized and fast communications with sensor-enabled terminals. Nevertheless, in order to make P2PSIP protocols feasible in mobile sensing networks, it is necessary to minimize overhead transmissions for signaling purposes, which reduces the battery lifetime. In this paper, we present a solution to improve the management of wireless overlay networks by defining an adaptive algorithm for the calculation of refresh time. The main advantage of the proposed algorithm is that it takes into account new parameters, such as the delay between nodes, and provides satisfactory performance and reliability levels at a much lower management overhead than previous approaches. The proposed solution can be applied to many structured P2P overlays or P2PSIP protocols. We evaluate it with Kademlia-based distributed hash tables (DHT) and dSIP.

Improving Management Performance of P2PSIP for Mobile Sensing in Wireless Overlays

PubMed Central

Sendín-Raña, Pablo; González-Castaño, Francisco Javier; Gómez-Cuba, Felipe; Asorey-Cacheda, Rafael; Pousada-Carballo, José María

2013-01-01

Future wireless communications are heading towards an all-Internet Protocol (all-IP) design, and will rely on the Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) to manage services, such as voice over IP (VoIP). The centralized architecture of traditional SIP has numerous disadvantages for mobile ad hoc services that may be possibly overcome by advanced peer-to-peer (P2P) technologies initially developed for the Internet. In the context of mobile sensing, P2PSIP protocols facilitate decentralized and fast communications with sensor-enabled terminals. Nevertheless, in order to make P2PSIP protocols feasible in mobile sensing networks, it is necessary to minimize overhead transmissions for signaling purposes, which reduces the battery lifetime. In this paper, we present a solution to improve the management of wireless overlay networks by defining an adaptive algorithm for the calculation of refresh time. The main advantage of the proposed algorithm is that it takes into account new parameters, such as the delay between nodes, and provides satisfactory performance and reliability levels at a much lower management overhead than previous approaches. The proposed solution can be applied to many structured P2P overlays or P2PSIP protocols. We evaluate it with Kademlia-based distributed hash tables (DHT) and dSIP PMID:24217358

An Experimental Exploration of the Impact of Network-Level Packet Loss on Network Intrusion Detection

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-08-01

Experimental environment 5 Table 1 Hardware specifications Name Manufacture Model CPU Memory Hard Drive IP Address Bilbo Dell PowerEdge R610 Intel...10 we replayed the same hour of network traffic from the CDX 20093 that we used in our theoretical2 exploration to show the impact of our packet... replay the traffic at arbitrary speeds. Table 3 lists the speed multiplier that we used and the packet loss we observed. Table 3 Network packet loss

Force Time History During the Impact of a Barge Train with a Lock Approach Wall Using Impact_Force

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-06-01

anthracite coal and a simply supported, long-span precast impact beam allows for an evaluation of the conserva- tiveness of the simplified Equation...is a precast , prestressed hollow beam (i.e., flexible structure) with a length of 117 feet 7 3/4 inches. A cross-section of the hollow beam is shown...XGlobal mbarge train Flexible Approach wall Flexible Beam deformation at time t time (secs) F n or m al -w al l (k ip s) 0 0.5 1 1.5 2 2.5 3 3.5 4 0

IP3-mediated gating mechanism of the IP3 receptor revealed by mutagenesis and X-ray crystallography

PubMed Central

Hamada, Kozo; Miyatake, Hideyuki; Terauchi, Akiko; Mikoshiba, Katsuhiko

2017-01-01

The inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) receptor (IP3R) is an IP3-gated ion channel that releases calcium ions (Ca2+) from the endoplasmic reticulum. The IP3-binding sites in the large cytosolic domain are distant from the Ca2+ conducting pore, and the allosteric mechanism of how IP3 opens the Ca2+ channel remains elusive. Here, we identify a long-range gating mechanism uncovered by channel mutagenesis and X-ray crystallography of the large cytosolic domain of mouse type 1 IP3R in the absence and presence of IP3. Analyses of two distinct space group crystals uncovered an IP3-dependent global translocation of the curvature α-helical domain interfacing with the cytosolic and channel domains. Mutagenesis of the IP3R channel revealed an essential role of a leaflet structure in the α-helical domain. These results suggest that the curvature α-helical domain relays IP3-controlled global conformational dynamics to the channel through the leaflet, conferring long-range allosteric coupling from IP3 binding to the Ca2+ channel. PMID:28416699

Machining of Molybdenum by EDM-EP and EDC Processes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, K. L.; Chen, H. J.; Lee, H. M.; Lo, J. S.

2017-12-01

Molybdenum metal (Mo) can be machined with conventional tools and equipment, however, its refractory propertytends to chip when being machined. In this study, the nonconventional processes of electrical discharge machining (EDM) and electro-polishing (EP) have been conducted to investigate the machining of Mo metal and fabrication of Mo grid. Satisfactory surface quality was obtained using appropriate EDM parameters of Ip ≦ 3A and Ton < 80μs at a constant pulse interval of 100μs. The finished Mometal has accomplished by selecting appropriate EP parameters such as electrolyte flow rate of 0.42m/s under EP voltage of 50V and flush time of 20 sec to remove the recast layer and craters on the surface of Mo metal. The surface roughness of machined Mo metal can be improved from Ra of 0.93μm (Rmax = 8.51μm) to 0.23μm (Rmax = 1.48μm). Machined Mo metal surface, when used as grid component in electron gun, needs to be modified by coating materials with high work function, such as silicon carbide (SiC). The main purpose of this study is to explore the electrical discharge coating (EDC) process for coating the SiC layer on EDMed Mo metal. Experimental results proved that the appropriate parameters of Ip = 5A and Ton = 50μs at Toff = 10μs can obtain the deposit with about 60μm thickness. The major phase of deposit on machined Mo surface was SiC ceramic, while the minor phases included MoSi2 and/or SiO2 with the presence of free Si due to improper discharging parameters and the use of silicone oil as the dielectric fluid.

Effect of Withania somnifera on forced swimming test induced immobility in mice and its interaction with various drugs.

PubMed

Shah, P C; Trivedi, N A; Bhatt, J D; Hemavathi, K G

2006-01-01

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the antidepressant action of Withania somnifera (WS) as well as its interaction with the conventional antidepressant drugs and to delineate the possible mechanism of its antidepressant action using forced swimming model in mice. Effect of different doses of WS, fluoxetine and imipramine were studied on forced swimming test induced mean immobility time (MIT). Moreover effect of WS 100 mg/kg, i.p. was observed at different time intervals. Effect produced by combination of sub therapeutic doses of WS with imipramine (2.5 mg/kg, i.p.) as well as fluoxetine (2.5 mg/kg, i.p.) were also observed. Effect of WS (100 mg/kg, i.p.) as well as combination of WS (37.5 mg/kg, i.p.) with either imipramine (2.5 mg/kg, i.p.) or fluoxetine (2.5 mg/kg, i.p.) were observed in mice pretreated with reserpine (2 mg/kg, i.p.) and clonidine (0.15 mg/kg, i.p.). Effects of prazosin (3 mg/kg, i.p.) or haloperidol (0.1 mg/kg, i.p.) pre-treatment were also observed on WS induced decrease in MIT. WS produced dose dependent decrease in MIT. Maximum effect in MIT was observed after 30 min of treatment with WS 100 mg/kg, i.p. Combination of WS (37.5 mg/kg, i.p.) with imipramine (2.5 mg/kg, i.p.) or fluoxetine (2.5 mg/kg, i.p.) also produced significant decrease in the MIT. Clonidine and reserpine induced increase in MIT, was significantly reversed by treatment with WS (100 mg/kg, i.p.) as well as combination of WS (37.5 mg/kg, i.p.) with either imipramine (2.5 mg/kg, i.p.) or fluoxetine (2.5 mg/kg, i.p.). Pre-treatment with prazosin but not haloperidol, significantly antagonized the WS (100 mg/kg, i.p.) induced decrease in MIT. It is concluded that, WS produced significant decrease in MIT in mice which could be mediated partly through a adrenoceptor as well as alteration in the level of central biogenic amines.

Potassium Channel Interacting Protein 2 (KChIP2) is not a transcriptional regulator of cardiac electrical remodeling

PubMed Central

Winther, Sine V.; Tuomainen, Tomi; Borup, Rehannah; Tavi, Pasi; Antoons, Gudrun; Thomsen, Morten B.

2016-01-01

The heart-failure relevant Potassium Channel Interacting Protein 2 (KChIP2) augments CaV1.2 and KV4.3. KChIP3 represses CaV1.2 transcription in cardiomyocytes via interaction with regulatory DNA elements. Hence, we tested nuclear presence of KChIP2 and if KChIP2 translocates into the nucleus in a Ca2+ dependent manner. Cardiac biopsies from human heart-failure patients and healthy donor controls showed that nuclear KChIP2 abundance was significantly increased in heart failure; however, this was secondary to a large variation of total KChIP2 content. Administration of ouabain did not increase KChIP2 content in nuclear protein fractions in anesthetized mice. KChIP2 was expressed in cell lines, and Ca2+ ionophores were applied in a concentration- and time-dependent manner. The cell lines had KChIP2-immunoreactive protein in the nucleus in the absence of treatments to modulate intracellular Ca2+ concentration. Neither increasing nor decreasing intracellular Ca2+ concentrations caused translocation of KChIP2. Microarray analysis did not identify relief of transcriptional repression in murine KChIP2−/− heart samples. We conclude that although there is a baseline presence of KChIP2 in the nucleus both in vivo and in vitro, KChIP2 does not directly regulate transcriptional activity. Moreover, the nuclear transport of KChIP2 is not dependent on Ca2+. Thus, KChIP2 does not function as a conventional transcription factor in the heart. PMID:27349185

One Approach for Transitioning the iNET Standards into the IRIG 106 Telemetry Standards

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-05-26

Protocol Suite. Figure 1 illustrates the Open Systems Interconnection ( OSI ) Model, the corresponding TCP/IP Model, and the major components of the TCP...IP Protocol Suite. Figure 2 represents the iNET-specific protocols layered onto the TCP/IP Model. Figure 1. OSI and TCP/IP Model with TCP/IP...Protocol Suite TCP/IP Protocol Suite Major Components IPv4 IPv6 TCP/IP Model OSI Model Application Presentation

Attraction of Southern Pine Engravers and Associated Bark Beetles (Coleoptera: Scolytidae) to Ipsenol, Ipsdienol, and Lanierone in Southeastern United States

Treesearch

D. R. Miller; C. Asaro; C. W. Berisford

2005-01-01

We determined the response of the small southern pine engraver, Ips avulses (Eichhoff); eastern fivespined ips, Ips grandicollis (Eichhoff); sixspined ips, Ips calligraphus (Germar); and pine engraver, Ips pini (Say) to the pheromones (±)-ipsenol, (±)-ipsdienol, and lanierone in the...

78 FR 49693 - Speech-to-Speech and Internet Protocol (IP) Speech-to-Speech Telecommunications Relay Services...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-08-15

...] Speech-to-Speech and Internet Protocol (IP) Speech-to-Speech Telecommunications Relay Services...: This is a summary of the Commission's Speech-to-Speech and Internet Protocol (IP) Speech-to-Speech...), Internet Protocol Relay (IP Relay), and IP captioned telephone service (IP CTS) as compensable forms of TRS...

The complete genome sequence of Yersinia pseudotuberculosis IP31758, the causative agent of Far East scarlet-like fever.

PubMed

Eppinger, Mark; Rosovitz, M J; Fricke, Wolfgang Florian; Rasko, David A; Kokorina, Galina; Fayolle, Corinne; Lindler, Luther E; Carniel, Elisabeth; Ravel, Jacques

2007-08-01

The first reported Far East scarlet-like fever (FESLF) epidemic swept the Pacific coastal region of Russia in the late 1950s. Symptoms of the severe infection included erythematous skin rash and desquamation, exanthema, hyperhemic tongue, and a toxic shock syndrome. The term FESLF was coined for the infection because it shares clinical presentations with scarlet fever caused by group A streptococci. The causative agent was later identified as Yersinia pseudotuberculosis, although the range of morbidities was vastly different from classical pseudotuberculosis symptoms. To understand the origin and emergence of the peculiar clinical features of FESLF, we have sequenced the genome of the FESLF-causing strain Y. pseudotuberculosis IP31758 and compared it with that of another Y. pseudotuberculosis strain, IP32953, which causes classical gastrointestinal symptoms. The unique gene pool of Y pseudotuberculosis IP31758 accounts for more than 260 strain-specific genes and introduces individual physiological capabilities and virulence determinants, with a significant proportion horizontally acquired that likely originated from Enterobacteriaceae and other soil-dwelling bacteria that persist in the same ecological niche. The mobile genome pool includes two novel plasmids phylogenetically unrelated to all currently reported Yersinia plasmids. An icm/dot type IVB secretion system, shared only with the intracellular persisting pathogens of the order Legionellales, was found on the larger plasmid and could contribute to scarlatinoid fever symptoms in patients due to the introduction of immunomodulatory and immunosuppressive capabilities. We determined the common and unique traits resulting from genome evolution and speciation within the genus Yersinia and drew a more accurate species border between Y. pseudotuberculosis and Y. pestis. In contrast to the lack of genetic diversity observed in the evolutionary young descending Y. pestis lineage, the population genetics of Y. pseudotuberculosis is more heterogenous. Both Y. pseudotuberculosis strains IP31758 and the previously sequenced Y. pseudotuberculosis strain IP32953 have evolved by the acquisition of specific plasmids and by the horizontal acquisition and incorporation of different genetic information into the chromosome, which all together or independently seems to potentially impact the phenotypic adaptation of these two strains.

The Complete Genome Sequence of Yersinia pseudotuberculosis IP31758, the Causative Agent of Far East Scarlet-Like Fever

PubMed Central

Eppinger, Mark; Rosovitz, M. J; Fricke, Wolfgang Florian; Rasko, David A; Kokorina, Galina; Fayolle, Corinne; Lindler, Luther E; Carniel, Elisabeth; Ravel, Jacques

2007-01-01

The first reported Far East scarlet-like fever (FESLF) epidemic swept the Pacific coastal region of Russia in the late 1950s. Symptoms of the severe infection included erythematous skin rash and desquamation, exanthema, hyperhemic tongue, and a toxic shock syndrome. The term FESLF was coined for the infection because it shares clinical presentations with scarlet fever caused by group A streptococci. The causative agent was later identified as Yersinia pseudotuberculosis, although the range of morbidities was vastly different from classical pseudotuberculosis symptoms. To understand the origin and emergence of the peculiar clinical features of FESLF, we have sequenced the genome of the FESLF-causing strain Y. pseudotuberculosis IP31758 and compared it with that of another Y. pseudotuberculosis strain, IP32953, which causes classical gastrointestinal symptoms. The unique gene pool of Y pseudotuberculosis IP31758 accounts for more than 260 strain-specific genes and introduces individual physiological capabilities and virulence determinants, with a significant proportion horizontally acquired that likely originated from Enterobacteriaceae and other soil-dwelling bacteria that persist in the same ecological niche. The mobile genome pool includes two novel plasmids phylogenetically unrelated to all currently reported Yersinia plasmids. An icm/dot type IVB secretion system, shared only with the intracellular persisting pathogens of the order Legionellales, was found on the larger plasmid and could contribute to scarlatinoid fever symptoms in patients due to the introduction of immunomodulatory and immunosuppressive capabilities. We determined the common and unique traits resulting from genome evolution and speciation within the genus Yersinia and drew a more accurate species border between Y. pseudotuberculosis and Y. pestis. In contrast to the lack of genetic diversity observed in the evolutionary young descending Y. pestis lineage, the population genetics of Y. pseudotuberculosis is more heterogenous. Both Y. pseudotuberculosis strains IP31758 and the previously sequenced Y. pseudotuberculosis strain IP32953 have evolved by the acquisition of specific plasmids and by the horizontal acquisition and incorporation of different genetic information into the chromosome, which all together or independently seems to potentially impact the phenotypic adaptation of these two strains. PMID:17784789

A dual role for the anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 protein in cancer: mitochondria versus endoplasmic reticulum.

PubMed

Akl, Haidar; Vervloessem, Tamara; Kiviluoto, Santeri; Bittremieux, Mart; Parys, Jan B; De Smedt, Humbert; Bultynck, Geert

2014-10-01

Anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 contributes to cancer formation and progression by promoting the survival of altered cells. Hence, it is a prime target for novel specific anti-cancer therapeutics. In addition to its canonical anti-apoptotic role, Bcl-2 has an inhibitory effect on cell-cycle progression. Bcl-2 acts at two different intracellular compartments, the mitochondria and the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). At the mitochondria, Bcl-2 via its hydrophobic cleft scaffolds the Bcl-2-homology (BH) domain 3 (BH3) of pro-apoptotic Bcl-2-family members. Small molecules (like BH3 mimetics) can disrupt this interaction, resulting in apoptotic cell death in cancer cells. At the ER, Bcl-2 modulates Ca(2+) signaling, thereby promoting proliferation while increasing resistance to apoptosis. Bcl-2 at the ER acts via its N-terminal BH4 domain, which directly binds and inhibits the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor (IP3R), the main intracellular Ca(2+)-release channel. Tools targeting the BH4 domain of Bcl-2 reverse Bcl-2's inhibitory action on IP3Rs and trigger pro-apoptotic Ca(2+) signaling in cancer B-cells, including chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) cells and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) cells. The sensitivity of DLBCL cells to BH4-domain targeting tools strongly correlated with the expression levels of the IP3R2 channel, the IP3R isoform with the highest affinity for IP3. Interestingly, bio-informatic analysis of a database of primary CLL patient cells also revealed a transcriptional upregulation of IP3R2. Finally, this review proposes a model, in which cancer cell survival depends on Bcl-2 at the mitochondria and/or the ER. This dependence likely will have an impact on their responses to BH3-mimetic drugs and BH4-domain targeting tools. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Calcium signaling in health and disease. Guest Editors: Geert Bultynck, Jacques Haiech, Claus W. Heizmann, Joachim Krebs, and Marc Moreau. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Employee and family assistance video counseling program: a post launch retrospective comparison with in-person counseling outcomes.

PubMed

Veder, Barbara; Pope, Stan; Mani, Michèle; Beaudoin, Kelly; Ritchie, Janice

2014-01-01

Access to technologically mediated information and services under the umbrella of mental and physical health has become increasingly available to clients via Internet modalities, according to a recent study. In May 2010, video counseling was added to the counseling services offered through the Employee and Family Assistance Program at Shepell·fgi as a pilot project with a full operational launch in September 2011. The objective of this study was to conduct a retrospective post launch examination of the video counseling service through an analysis of the reported clinical outcomes of video and in-person counseling modalities. A chronological sample of 68 video counseling (VC) cases and 68 in-person (IP) cases were collected from a pool of client clinical files closed in 2012. To minimize the variables impacting the study and maintain as much clinical continuity as possible, the IP and the VC clients must have attended clinical sessions with any one of six counselors who provided both the VC and the IP services. The study compared the two counseling modalities along the following data points (see glossary of terms): (1) client demographic profiles (eg, age, gender, whether the sessions involved individuals or conjoint sessions with couples or families, etc), (2) presenting issue, (3) average session hours, (4) client rating of session helpfulness, (5) rates of goal completion, (6) client withdrawal rates, (7) no show and late cancellation rates, and (8) pre/post client self-assessment. Specific to VC, we examined client geographic location. Data analysis demonstrates that the VC and the IP showed a similar representation of presenting issues with nearly identical outcomes for client ratings of session helpfulness, rates of goal completion, pre/post client self-assessment, average session duration, and client geographic location. There were no statistically significant differences in the rates of withdrawal from counseling, no shows, and late cancellations between the VC and the IP counseling. The statistical analysis of the data was done on SPSS statistical software using 2-sample and pairwise comparison t tests at a 95% level of significance. Based on the study, VC and IP show similar outcomes in terms of client rating of session and goal attainment.

Kv7 (KCNQ) channel openers induce hypothermia in the mouse.

PubMed

Kristensen, Line V; Sandager-Nielsen, Karin; Hansen, Henrik H

2011-01-20

Kv7 channels, encoded by corresponding kcnq genes, are expressed both centrally and peripherally where they serve to dampen neuronal activity. While Kv7 channel openers have shown efficacy in neurological and neuropsychiatric disease models, the impact of Kv7 channel activation on physiological endpoint markers have not been addressed in detail. In this study we assessed the effect of a range of Kv7 channel openers with different affinity for neuronal Kv7.2-5 channel subunits on body temperature regulation in mice. Female NMRI mice were acutely exposed to vehicle (10% Tween-80, i.p.), retigabine (3-30 mg/kg, i.p., pan-Kv7 channel opener), (S)BMS-204352 (60-240 mg/kg, i.p., Kv7.4/5 channel-preferring opener), ICA-27243 (1-10mg/kg, i.p., Kv7.2/3 channel-preferring opener), or S-(1) (10-60 mg/kg, i.p., Kv7.2/3 channel-preferring opener), and rectal body temperature was measured 15-120 min post-injection. Retigabine (>10mg/kg), ICA-27243 (≥ 10 mg/kg), and S-(1) (≥ 30 mg/kg) dose-dependently lowered rectal body temperature with maximal doses of each Kv7 channel opener inducing a marked drop (>4°C) in rectal temperature. The Kv7 channel openers showed differential temporal pharmacodynamics, which likely reflects their different pharmacokinetic profiles. Pretreatment with the pan-Kv7 channel blocker XE-991 (1.0mg/kg, i.p.) completely reversed the hypothermic effect of the pan-Kv7 opener, retigabine (15 mg/kg), whereas ICA-27243-induced hypothermia (10mg/kg) could only be partially prevented by XE-991. Because ICA-27743 and S-(1) are Kv7.2/3 channel subunit-preferring compounds, this suggests that the Kv7.2/3 channel isoform is the predominant substrate for Kv7 channel opener-evoked hypothermia. These data indicate the physiological relevance of Kv7 channel function on body temperature regulation which may potentially reside from central inhibitory Kv7 channel activity. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Promoting global health: utilizing WHO to integrate public health, innovation and intellectual property.

PubMed

Mackey, Tim K; Liang, Bryan A

2012-12-01

The appropriate role of innovation and intellectual property (IP) in global public health is a controversial issue. Discussion is one-sided, with potential benefits advocated by industry in stark contrast to condemnation by certain civil society players. WHO's Public Health, Innovation and Intellectual Property Department (PHI) was established to address healthcare resource need for developing countries, assess impact of innovation and IP on access to medicines, explore innovative funding mechanisms for R&D and provide evidence-based policy-making recommendations in response to the changing global health landscape. Importantly, PHI could represent a potential forum to bridge shared, yet often diverse, interests and opportunities between various public and private stakeholders, a crucial issue for ensuring the future viability of WHO. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Inositol trisphosphate metabolism in carrot (Daucus carota L. ) cells

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

Memon, A.R.; Rincon, M.; Boss, W.F.

1989-10-01

The metabolism of exogenously added D-myo-(1-{sup 3}H)inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP{sub 3}) has been examined in microsomal membrane and soluble fractions of carrot cells grown in suspension culture. When ({sup 3}H)IP{sub 3} was added to a microsomal membrane fraction, ({sup 3}H)IP{sub 2} was the primary metabolite consisting of approximately 83% of the total recovered ({sup 3}H) by electrophoresis. ({sup 3}H)IP was only 6% of the ({sup 3}H) recovered, and 10% of the ({sup 3}H)IP{sub 3} was not further metabolized. In contrast, when ({sup 3}H)IP{sub 3} was added to the soluble fraction, approximately equal amounts of ({sup 3}H)IP{sub 2} and ({sup 3}H)IP weremore » recovered. Ca{sup 2+} (100 micromolar) tended to enhance IP{sub 3} dephosphorylation but inhibited the IP{sub 2} dephosphorylation in the soluble fraction by about 20%. MoO{sub 4}{sup 2{minus}} (1 millimolar) inhibited the dephosphorylation of IP{sub 3} by the microsomal fraction and the dephosphorylation of IP{sub 2} by the soluble fraction. MoO{sub 4}{sup 2{minus}}, however, did not inhibit the dephosphorylation of IP{sub 3} by the soluble fraction. Li{sup +} (10 and 50 millimolar) had no effect on IP{sub 3} metabolism in either the soluble or membrane fraction; however, Li{sup +} (50 millimolar) inhibited IP{sub 2} dephosphorylation in the soluble fraction about 25%.« less

Stimulation of Inositol 1,4,5-Trisphosphate (IP3) Receptor Subtypes by Adenophostin A and Its Analogues

PubMed Central

Saleem, Huma; Tovey, Stephen C.; Riley, Andrew M.; Potter, Barry V. L.; Taylor, Colin W.

2013-01-01

Inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors (IP3R) are intracellular Ca2+ channels. Most animal cells express mixtures of the three IP3R subtypes encoded by vertebrate genomes. Adenophostin A (AdA) is the most potent naturally occurring agonist of IP3R and it shares with IP3 the essential features of all IP3R agonists, namely structures equivalent to the 4,5-bisphosphate and 6-hydroxyl of IP3. The two essential phosphate groups contribute to closure of the clam-like IP3-binding core (IBC), and thereby IP3R activation, by binding to each of its sides (the α- and β-domains). Regulation of the three subtypes of IP3R by AdA and its analogues has not been examined in cells expressing defined homogenous populations of IP3R. We measured Ca2+ release evoked by synthetic adenophostin A (AdA) and its analogues in permeabilized DT40 cells devoid of native IP3R and stably expressing single subtypes of mammalian IP3R. The determinants of high-affinity binding of AdA and its analogues were indistinguishable for each IP3R subtype. The results are consistent with a cation-π interaction between the adenine of AdA and a conserved arginine within the IBC α-domain contributing to closure of the IBC. The two complementary contacts between AdA and the α-domain (cation-π interaction and 3″-phosphate) allow activation of IP3R by an analogue of AdA (3″-dephospho-AdA) that lacks a phosphate group equivalent to the essential 5-phosphate of IP3. These data provide the first structure-activity analyses of key AdA analogues using homogenous populations of all mammalian IP3R subtypes. They demonstrate that differences in the Ca2+ signals evoked by AdA analogues are unlikely to be due to selective regulation of IP3R subtypes. PMID:23469136

Curcumin modifies Apc(min) apoptosis resistance and inhibits 2-amino 1-methyl-6-phenylimidazo[4,5-b]pyridine (PhIP) induced tumour formation in Apc(min) mice.

PubMed

Collett, G P; Robson, C N; Mathers, J C; Campbell, F C

2001-05-01

Curcumin, the active ingredient of the rhizome of Curcuma longa, promotes apoptosis and may have chemopreventive properties. This study investigates the effects of curcumin on apoptosis and tumorigenesis in male Apc(min) mice treated with the human dietary carcinogen, 2-amino-1-methyl-6-phenylimidazo[4,5-b]pyridine (PhIP). Intestinal epithelial apoptotic index in response to PhIP treatment was approximately twice as great in the wild-type C57BL/6 APC(+/+) strain than in Apc(min) mice (3.7% Apc(+/+) versus 1.9% Apc(min); P < 0.001). PhIP promoted tumour formation in Apc(min) proximal small intestine (4.6 tumours per mouse, PhIP treated versus 2.1 tumours per mouse, control untreated; P < 0.05). Curcumin enhanced PhIP-induced apoptosis (4.0% curcumin + PhIP versus 2.1% PhIP alone; P < 0.01) and inhibited PhIP-induced tumorigenesis in the proximal small intestine of Apc(min) mice (2.2 tumours per mouse, curcumin + PhIP versus 4.6 tumours per mouse PhIP alone; P < 0.05). This study shows that the Apc(min) genotype is associated with resistance to PhIP-induced apoptosis in intestinal epithelium. Curcumin attenuates Apc(min) resistance to PhIP-induced apoptosis and inhibits PhIP-induced tumorigenesis in proximal Apc(min) mouse small intestine.

Analysis of Induced Polarization effects in airborne TEM data - a case study from central East Greenland

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maack Rasmussen, Thorkild; Brethes, Anaïs; Pierpaolo Guarnieri, Pierpaolo; Bauer, Tobias

2017-04-01

Data from a high-resolution airborne SkyTEM time-domain electromagnetic survey conducted in central East Greenland were analysed. An analysis based on utilization of a Self Organizing Map procedure for response curve characterization and analyses based on data inversion and modelling are presented. The survey was flown in 2013 along the eastern margin of the Jameson Land basin with the purpose of base metal exploration and with sulphide mineralization as target. The survey area comprises crystalline basement to the East and layered Early Triassic to Jurassic sediments to the West. The layers are dipping a few degrees towards West. The Triassic sequence is 1 to 2 km thick and mostly of continental origin. The fluviatile Early Triassic arkoses and conglomerates, the Upper Triassic grey limestone and black shale beds and overlying gypsiferous sandstones and mudstones are known to host disseminated sulphides. E-W oriented lines were flown with an average terrain clearance of 30m and a separation of 300m. The data were initially processed and inverted by SkyTEM Aps. The conductivity models showed some conductive layers as well as induced polarization (IP) effects in the data. IP effects in TEM data reflect the relaxation of polarized charges in the ground which can be good indicators of the presence of metallic particles. Some of these locations were drilled during the following field season but unfortunately did not reveal the presence of mineralization. The aim of this study is therefore to understand the possible causes of these IP effects. Electrical charge accumulation in the ground can be related to the presence of sulphides, oxides or graphite or to the presence of clays or fibrous minerals. Permafrost may also cause IP effects and is then expected to be associated with a highly resistive subsurface. Several characteristics of the transient curves (IP indicators) of the SkyTEM survey were extracted and analysed by using the Kohonen Self-Organizing Map (SOM) technique. SOM is a type of neural network algorithm developed for analysis of non-linear relationships in multivariate data. The basic idea of SOM is to provide a method for easy visualizing of multi-dimensional data. The SOM may be viewed as a two-dimensional grid onto which multi-dimensional input data are projected or mapped from a multi-dimensional space. The space dimension is equal to the number of analysed variables containing the geo-referenced IP indicators that characterise the transient curves. Input data that are similar or close to each other, irrespectively of their geographic location, are mapped to the same or adjacent position in the SOM. Data that belongs to a particular cluster in the SOM space are afterwards mapped into a geographical space. Characteristics of the IP effects can therefore be mapped and spatially compared with the geology of the area. Once IP were identified and located, Cole-Cole parameters were recovered from the airborne TEM data in specific locations by inversion of the TEM data. An interpretation of the derived models is discussed in relation to possible causes of the observed IP effects.

Evaluation of experimental design and computational parameter choices affecting analyses of ChIP-seq and RNA-seq data in undomesticated poplar trees.

Treesearch

Lijun Liu; V. Missirian; Matthew S. Zinkgraf; Andrew Groover; V. Filkov

2014-01-01

Background: One of the great advantages of next generation sequencing is the ability to generate large genomic datasets for virtually all species, including non-model organisms. It should be possible, in turn, to apply advanced computational approaches to these datasets to develop models of biological processes. In a practical sense, working with non-model organisms...

Compressive Spectral Embedding: Sidestepping the SVD

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-09-28

of Rn, the distance between the p, q-th rows of f̃(S) can be written as ‖f̃L(S) (ip − iq)‖ = ‖f(S) (ip − iq)− Z (ip − iq)‖ ≤ ‖ ET (ip − iq)‖+ δ √ 2...2) Similarly, we have that ‖f̃L(S) (ip − iq)‖ ≥ ‖ ET (ip − iq)‖ − δ √ 2. Thus pairwise distances be- tween the rows of f̃L(S) approximate those between...iq) ∥∥∥ = ∥∥∥ΩT f̃L(S) (ip − iq) ∥∥∥ ≤ √ 1 + ǫ ∥∥∥f̃L(S) (ip − iq) ∥∥∥ Using (2), we can show that ‖ẼT (ip − iq)‖ ≤ √ 1 + ǫ ( ‖ ET (ip − iq)‖+ δ √ 2

An Improved Method for Measuring Chromatin-binding Dynamics Using Time-dependent Formaldehyde Crosslinking

PubMed Central

Hoffman, Elizabeth A.; Zaidi, Hussain; Shetty, Savera J.; Bekiranov, Stefan; Auble, David T.

2018-01-01

Formaldehyde crosslinking is widely used in combination with chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) to measure the locations along DNA and relative levels of transcription factor (TF)-DNA interactions in vivo. However, the measurements that are typically made do not provide unambiguous information about the dynamic properties of these interactions. We have developed a method to estimate binding kinetic parameters from time-dependent formaldehyde crosslinking data, called crosslinking kinetics (CLK) analysis. Cultures of yeast cells are crosslinked with formaldehyde for various periods of time, yielding the relative ChIP signal at particular loci. We fit the data using the mass-action CLK model to extract kinetic parameters of the TF-chromatin interaction, including the on- and off-rates and crosslinking rate. From the on- and off-rate we obtain the occupancy and residence time. The following protocol is the second iteration of this method, CLKv2, updated with improved crosslinking and quenching conditions, more information about crosslinking rates, and systematic procedures for modeling the observed kinetic regimes. CLKv2 analysis has been applied to investigate the binding behavior of the TATA-binding protein (TBP), and a selected subset of other TFs. The protocol was developed using yeast cells, but may be applicable to cells from other organisms as well. PMID:29682595

A Market Model for Evaluating Technologies That Impact Critical-Material Intensity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Iyer, Ananth V.; Vedantam, Aditya

2016-07-01

A recent Critical Materials Strategy report highlighted the supply chain risk associated with neodymium and dysprosium, which are used in the manufacturing of neodymium-iron-boron permanent magnets (PM). In response, the Critical Materials Institute is developing innovative strategies to increase and diversify primary production, develop substitutes, reduce material intensity and recycle critical materials. Our goal in this paper is to propose an economic model to quantify the impact of one of these strategies, material intensity reduction. Technologies that reduce material intensity impact the economics of magnet manufacturing in multiple ways because of: (1) the lower quantity of critical material required per unit PM, (2) more efficient use of limited supply, and (3) the potential impact on manufacturing cost. However, the net benefit of these technologies to a magnet manufacturer is an outcome of an internal production decision subject to market demand characteristics, availability and resource constraints. Our contribution in this paper shows how a manufacturer's production economics moves from a region of being supply-constrained, to a region enabling the market optimal production quantity, to a region being constrained by resources other than critical materials, as the critical material intensity changes. Key insights for engineers and material scientists are: (1) material intensity reduction can have a significant market impact, (2) benefits to manufacturers are non-linear in the material intensity reduction, (3) there exists a threshold value for material intensity reduction that can be calculated for any target PM application, and (4) there is value for new intellectual property (IP) when existing manufacturing technology is IP-protected.

Inlet patch: heterotopic gastric mucosa--another contributor to supraesophageal symptoms?

PubMed

Macha, Suhasini; Reddy, Sushma; Rabah, Raja; Thomas, Ronald; Tolia, Vasundhara

2005-09-01

To determine prospectively the incidence of an inlet patch (IP) in children requiring esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) and assess the prevalence of presenting symptoms between children with and without an IP. All patients undergoing EGD in a 2-year period were assessed for the presence of an IP with biopsy confirmation. IP, distal esophagus, and stomach biopsy specimens were blindly reviewed by a pathologist for the presence and degree of inflammation and intestinal metaplasia. Symptoms from children with and without an IP were compared. From 407 EGDs done by a single endoscopist, 24 patients had confirmed IP (incidence of 5.9%). The presence and degree of inflammation were always relatively greater in the columnar mucosa of the IP than in the antral/body gastric mucosa in the same patient (P = .0027) Inflammation was similar in the squamous epithelium around the IP and in the distal esophagus (P=.46). Two patients had intestinal metaplasia of the IP. The patients with IPs had a higher prevalence of respiratory symptoms than the control group (P = .03). Children with IPs may have a higher frequency of respiratory symptoms. Periodic surveillance should be performed in children with intestinal metaplasia of an IP.

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

Hashimoto, Muneaki, E-mail: muneaki@juntendo.ac.jp; Nara, Takeshi, E-mail: tnara@juntendo.ac.jp; Enomoto, Masahiro, E-mail: menomoto@uhnres.utoronto.ca

Inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor (IP{sub 3}R) is a key regulator of intracellular Ca{sup 2+} concentration that release Ca{sup 2+} from Ca{sup 2+} stores in response to various external stimuli. IP{sub 3}R also works as a signal hub which form a platform for interacting with various proteins involved in diverse cell signaling. Previously, we have identified an IP{sub 3}R homolog in the parasitic protist, Trypanosoma cruzi (TcIP{sub 3}R). Parasites expressing reduced or increased levels of TcIP{sub 3}R displayed defects in growth, transformation, and infectivity. In the present study, we established parasitic strains expressing a dominant negative form of TcIP{sub 3}R, named DN-TcIP{submore » 3}R, to further investigate the physiological role(s) of TcIP{sub 3}R. We found that the growth of epimastigotes expressing DN-TcIP{sub 3}R was significantly slower than that of parasites with TcIP{sub 3}R expression levels that were approximately 65% of wild-type levels. The expression of DN-TcIP{sub 3}R in epimastigotes induced metacyclogenesis even in the normal growth medium. Furthermore, these epimastigotes showed the presence of dense mitochondria under a transmission electron microscope. Our findings confirm that TcIP{sub 3}R is crucial for epimastigote growth, as previously reported. They also suggest that a strong inhibition of the IP{sub 3}R-mediated signaling induces metacyclogenesis and that mitochondrial integrity is closely associated with this signaling. - Highlights: • We established T. cruzi strains expressing a dominant negative form of the TcIP{sub 3}R. • DN-TcIP{sub 3}R expression inhibits epimastigote growth and induces metacyclogenesis. • Microscopic analysis indicated TcIP{sub 3}R role in maintaining mitochondrial integrity. • Growth, but not microbial density, was altered by mammalian IP{sub 3}R inhibitor (2-APB).« less

Protein kinase C (PKC) phosphorylates human platelet inositol trisphosphate 5/sup +/-/-phosphomonoesterase (IP/sub 3/ 5'-p'tase) increasing phosphatase activity

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

Connolly, T.M.; Majerus, P.W.

1986-05-01

Phosphoinositide breakdown in response to thrombin stimulation of human platelets generates messenger molecules that activate PKC (diglyceride) and mobilize Ca/sup + +/ (inositol tris-phosphates). The water soluble products of phospholipase C-mediated metabolism of phosphatidylinositol 4,5-diphosphate are inositol 1,4,5 P/sub 3/ (IP/sub 3/) and inositol 1:2-cyclic 4,5 P/sub 3/ (cIP/sub 3/). A specific phosphatase, IP/sub 3/ 5'-p'tase, cleaves the 5 phosphate from IP/sub 3/ or cIP/sub 3/ to form IP/sub 2/ or cIP/sub 2/ and P/sub i/, none of which mobilizes Ca/sup + +/. Thus, the IP/sub 3/ 5'-p'tase may regulate cellular responses to IP/sub 3/ or cIP/sub 3/. The authorsmore » find that IP/sub 3/ 5'-p'tase isolated from human platelets is phosphorylated by rat brain PKC, resulting in a 4-fold increase in IP/sub 3/ 5'-p'tase activity. The authors phosphorylated IP/sub 3/ 5'-p'tase using ..gamma.. /sup 32/P-ATP and found that the labeled enzyme comigrated on SDS-PAGE with the previously described 40K protein phosphorylated in response to thrombin stimulation of platelets. The similarity of the PKC-phosphorylated IP/sub 3/ 5'-p'tase observed in vitro and the thrombin-stimulated phosphorylated 40K protein known to be phosphorylated by PKC in vivo, suggests that these proteins may be the same. These results suggest that platelet Ca/sup + +/ mobilization maybe regulated by PKC phosphorylation of the IP/sub 3/ 5'-p'tase and can explain the observation that phorbol ester treatment of intact human platelets results in decreased production of IP/sub 3/ and decreased Ca/sup + +/ mobilization upon subsequent thrombin addition.« less

Different KChIPs compete for heteromultimeric assembly with pore-forming Kv4 subunits.

PubMed

Zhou, Jingheng; Tang, Yiquan; Zheng, Qin; Li, Meng; Yuan, Tianyi; Chen, Liangyi; Huang, Zhuo; Wang, KeWei

2015-06-02

Auxiliary Kv channel-interacting proteins 1-4 (KChIPs1-4) coassemble with pore-forming Kv4 α-subunits to form channel complexes underlying somatodendritic subthreshold A-type current that regulates neuronal excitability. It has been hypothesized that different KChIPs can competitively bind to Kv4 α-subunit to form variable channel complexes that can exhibit distinct biophysical properties for modulation of neural function. In this study, we use single-molecule subunit counting by total internal reflection fluorescence microscopy in combinations with electrophysiology and biochemistry to investigate whether different isoforms of auxiliary KChIPs, KChIP4a, and KChIP4bl, can compete for binding of Kv4.3 to coassemble heteromultimeric channel complexes for modulation of channel function. To count the number of photobleaching steps solely from cell membrane, we take advantage of a membrane tethered k-ras-CAAX peptide that anchors cytosolic KChIP4 proteins to the surface for reduction of background noise. Single-molecule subunit counting reveals that the number of KChIP4 isoforms in Kv4.3-KChIP4 complexes can vary depending on the KChIP4 expression level. Increasing the amount of KChIP4bl gradually reduces bleaching steps of KChIP4a isoform proteins, and vice versa. Further analysis of channel gating kinetics from different Kv4-KChIP4 subunit compositions confirms that both KChIP4a and KChIP4bl can modulate the channel complex function upon coassembly. Taken together, our findings show that auxiliary KChIPs can heteroassemble with Kv4 in a competitive manner to form heteromultimeric Kv4-KChIP4 channel complexes that are biophysically distinct and regulated under physiological or pathological conditions. Copyright © 2015 Biophysical Society. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Respiratory and Pulse Changes Due to Vestibular Stimulations in a Motion-Based Simulator.

PubMed

Ilbasmis, Savas; Yildiz, Safak

2017-01-01

One of the mechanisms leading to spatial disorientation (SD) is overstimulation of the vestibular system by various aircraft maneuvers. The objective of this study was to observe respiratory rate and pulse changes during vestibular system stimulations with the help of two selected SD training profiles. The respiration and pulse rates of 15 subjects were recorded in response to 2 sequential SD training profiles on a motion-based simulator. The session started with a motionless instruction period (IP), continued with a Coriolis profile (CP) which stimulated the semicircular canals, and ended with a Dark Takeoff profile (DP) which stimulated the otolith organs. Recorded parameter means during profiles were statistically compared with IP mean values. The average age of all subjects was 23.67 ± 1.11. Mean CP respiratory rate (23.43 ± 3.21) was higher than mean IP respiratory rate (21.39 ± 4.27) and mean DP pulse rate (79.88 ± 10.39) was lower than mean IP pulse rate (84.76 ± 14.26) of the subjects. These differences were statistically significant. Data indicate that stimulation of the semicircular canals increased respiration rate while stimulation of the otoliths caused a reduction in pulse rate. This was considered to be a result of vestibulorespiratory reflex. Inputs from the vestibular otolith organs contribute to the control of blood pressure during movement and changes in posture. Predicting pulse and respiratory changes due to aerial maneuvers may be important for pilot safety during flight.Ilbasmis S, Yildiz S. Respiratory and pulse changes due to vestibular stimulations in a motion-based simulator. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2017; 88(1):48-51.

Panicolytic-like effect of tramadol is mediated by opioid receptors in the dorsal periaqueductal grey.

PubMed

Fiaes, Gislaine Cardoso de Souza; Roncon, Camila Marroni; Sestile, Caio Cesar; Maraschin, Jhonatan Christian; Souza, Rodolfo Luis Silva; Porcu, Mauro; Audi, Elisabeth Aparecida

2017-05-30

Tramadol is a synthetic opioid prescribed for the treatment of moderate to severe pain, acting as agonist of μ-opioid receptors and serotonin (5-HT) and noradrenaline (NE) reuptake inhibitor. This study evaluated the effects of tramadol in rats submitted to the elevated T-maze (ETM), an animal model that evaluates behavioural parameters such as anxiety and panic. Male Wistar rats were intraperitoneally (i.p.) treated acutely with tramadol (16 and 32mg/kg) and were submitted to the ETM. Tramadol (32mg/kg) promoted a panicolytic-like effect. Considering that dorsal periaqueductal grey (dPAG) is the main brain structure related to the pathophysiology of panic disorder (PD), this study also evaluated the participation of 5-HT and opioid receptors located in the dPAG in the panicolytic-like effect of tramadol. Seven days after stereotaxic surgery for implantation of a cannula in the dPAG, the animals were submitted to the test. To assess the involvement of 5-HT 1A receptors on the effect of tramadol, we combined the 5-HT 1A receptor antagonist, WAY100635 (0.37nmol), microinjected intra-dPAG, 10min prior to the administration of tramadol (32mg/kg, i.p.). WAY100635 did not block the panicolytic-like effect of tramadol. We also associated the non-selective opioid receptor antagonist, naloxone, systemically (1mg/kg, i.p.) or intra-dPAG (0.5nmol) administered 10min prior to tramadol (32mg/kg, i.p.). Naloxone blocked the panicolytic-like effect of tramadol in both routes of administrations, showing that tramadol modulates acute panic defensive behaviours through its interaction with opioid receptors located in the dPAG. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

On Interplanetary Shocks Driven by Coronal Mass Ejections

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gopalswarmy, Nat

2011-01-01

Traveling interplanetary (IP) shocks were first detected in the early 1960s, but their solar origin has been controversial. Early research focused on solar flares as the source of the shocks, but when CMEs were discovered, it became clear that fast CMEs are the shock drivers. Type radio II bursts are excellent signatures of shocks near the Sun (Type II radio bursts were known long before the detection of shocks and CMEs). The excellent correspondence between type II bursts and solar energetic particle (SEP) events made it clear that the same shock accelerates ions and electrons. Shocks near the Sun are also seen occasionally in white-light coronagraphic images. In the solar wind, shocks are observed as discontinuities in plasma parameters such as density and speed. Energetic storm particle events and sudden commencement of geomagnetic storm are also indicators of shocks arriving at Earth. After an overview on these shock signatures, I will summarize the results of a recent investigation of a large number of IP shocks. The study revealed that about 35% of IP shocks do not produce type II bursts (radio quiet - RQ) or SEPs. Comparing the RQ shocks with the radio loud (RL) ones revealed some interesting results: (1) There is no evidence for blast wave shocks. (2) A small fraction (20%) of RQ shocks is associated with ion enhancements at the shock when the shock passes the spacecraft. (3) The primary difference between the RQ and RL shocks can be traced to the different kinematic properties of the associated CMEs. On the other hand the shock properties measured at 1 AU are not too different for the RQ and RL cases. This can be attributed to the interaction with the IP medium, which seems to erase the difference between the shocks.

MULTI-SPACECRAFT ANALYSIS OF ENERGETIC HEAVY ION AND INTERPLANETARY SHOCK PROPERTIES IN ENERGETIC STORM PARTICLE EVENTS NEAR 1 au

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

Ebert, R. W.; Dayeh, M. A.; Desai, M. I.

2016-11-10

We examine the longitude distribution of and relationship between interplanetary (IP) shock properties and ∼0.1–20 MeV nucleon{sup -1} O and Fe ions during seven multi-spacecraft energetic storm particle (ESP) events at 1 au. These ESP events were observed at two spacecraft and were primarily associated with low Mach number, quasi-perpendicular shocks. Key observations include the following: (i) the Alfvén Mach number increased from east to west of the coronal mass ejection source longitude, while the shock speed, compression ratios, and obliquity showed no clear dependence; (ii) the O and Fe time intensity profiles and peak intensities varied significantly between longitudinallymore » separated spacecraft observing the same event, the peak intensities being larger near the nose and smaller along the flank of the IP shock; (iii) the O and Fe peak intensities had weak to no correlations with the shock parameters; (iv) the Fe/O time profiles showed intra-event variations upstream of the shock that disappeared downstream of the shock, where values plateaued to those comparable to the mean Fe/O of solar cycle 23; (v) the O and Fe spectral index ranged from ∼1.0 to 3.4, the Fe spectra being softer in most events; and (vi) the observed spectral index was softer than the value predicted from the shock compression ratio in most events. We conclude that while the variations in IP shock properties may account for some variations in O and Fe properties within these multi-spacecraft events, detailed examination of the upstream seed population and IP turbulence, along with modeling, are required to fully characterize these observations.« less

Nanoparticle mediated brain targeted delivery of gallic acid: in vivo behavioral and biochemical studies for improved antioxidant and antidepressant-like activity.

PubMed

Nagpal, Kalpana; Singh, Shailendra Kumar; Mishra, Dina Nath

2012-11-01

Gallic acid had been reported to possess antidepressant like activity, which may be attributed to its CNS effects like increase in reduced glutathione levels, increased catalase activity and decreased malonaldehyde levels in brain. This study was designed to enhance the antidepressant-like activity of gallic acid (GA) using nanoparticulate delivery system in swiss male albino mice and to explore the possible underlying mechanisms for this activity. GA loaded chitosan nanoparticles (GANP) and corresponding tween 80 coated batch (cGANP) were formulated for brain targeting of GA and characterized for physicochemical parameters, morphology, differential scanning calorimetry and in vitro drug release. GA, GANP, cGANP (dose equivalent to GA 10 mg/kg, i.p.) and positive control drug, Fluoxetine (10 mg/kg, i.p.) were administered for successive seven days to male swiss albino mice. Then, the in vivo antidepressant-like activity was evaluated using Despair Swim Test (DST) and Tail Suspension Test (TST); along with the evaluation of MAO-A activity, reduced glutathione, malonaldehyde level, catalase and locomotor activity in mice. KEYFINDINGS: cGANP (equivalent to 10 mg/kg, i.p.) significantly decreased immobility period of mice in DST and TST, indicating significant antidepressant-like activity. There was no significant effect on locomotor activity of the mice by GA and its nanoparticle formulations. cGANP (10 mg/kg, i.p.) significantly decreased Monoamine oxidase-A (MAO-A) activity, malondialdehyde levels, and catalase activity in mice. GA possess significant antidepressant like activity and ligand coated nanoparticle approach with improved brain targeting may serve as an effective approach to enhance such effect.

A computational investigation on the antioxidant potential of myricetin 3,4'-di-O-α-L-rhamnopyranoside.

PubMed

Mendes, Rodrigo A; Almeida, Shawan K C; Soares, Iuri N; Barboza, Cristina A; Freitas, Renato G; Brown, Alex; de Souza, Gabriel L C

2018-05-11

In this work, we present a computational study on the antioxidant potential of myricetin 3,4[Formula: see text]-di-O-α-L-rhamnopyranoside (Compound M). A density functional theory (DFT) approach with the B3LYP and LC-ωPBE functionals and with both the 6-311G(d,p) and 6-311+G(d,p) basis sets was used. The focus of the investigation was on the structural and energetic parameters including both bond dissociation enthalpies (BDEs) and ionization potentials (IPs), which provide information on the potential antioxidant activity. The properties computed were compared with BDEs and IPs available in the literature for myricetin, a compound well known for presenting antioxidant activity (and the parent molecule of the compound of interest in the present work). Myricetin 3,4[Formula: see text]-di-O-α-L-rhamnopyranoside presented the lowest BDE to be 79.13 kcal/mol (as determined using B3LYP/6-311G(d,p) in water) while myricetin has a quite similar value (within 3.4 kcal/mol). IPs computed in the gas phase [B3LYP/6-311G(d,p)] are 157.18 and 161.4 kcal/mol for myricetin 3,4[Formula: see text]-di-O-α-L-rhamnopyranoside and myricetin, respectively. As the values of BDEs are considerably lower than the ones probed for IPs (in the gas phase or in any given solvent environment), the hydrogen atom transfer mechanism is preferred over the single electron transfer mechanism. The BDEs obtained suggest that myricetin 3,4[Formula: see text]-di-O-α-L-rhamnopyranoside can present antioxidant potential as good as the parent molecule myricetin (a well-known antioxidant). Therefore, experimental tests on the antioxidant activity of Compound M are encouraged.

Analysis of a Multi-Machine Database on Divertor Heat Fluxes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Makowski, M. A.

2011-10-01

A coordinated effort to measure divertor heat flux characteristics in fully attached, similarly shaped H-mode plasmas on C-Mod, DIII-D and NSTX was carried out in 2010 in order to construct a predictive scaling relation applicable to next step devices including ITER, FNSF, and DEMO. Few published scaling laws are available and those that have been published were obtained under widely varying conditions and divertor geometries, leading to conflicting predictions for this critically important quantity. This study was designed to overcome these deficiencies. Corresponding plasma parameters were systematically varied in each tokamak, resulting in a combined data set in which Ip varies by a factor 3, Bt varies by a factor of 14.5, and major radius varies by a factor of 2.6. The derived scaling relation consistently predicts narrower heat flux widths than relations currently in use. Analysis of the combined data set reveals that the primary dependence of the parallel heat flux width is robustly inverse with Ip. All three tokamaks independently demonstrate this dependence. The midplane SOL profiles in DIII-D are also found to steepen with higher Ip, similar to the divertor heat flux profiles. Weaker dependencies on the toroidal field and normalized Greenwald density, fGW, are also found, but vary across devices and with the measure of the heat flux width used, either FWHM or integral width. In the combined data set, the strongest size scaling is with minor radius resulting in an approximately linear dependence on a /Ip . This suggests a scaling correlated with the inverse of the poloidal field, as would be expected for critical gradient or drift-based transport. Supported by the US DOE under DE-AC52-07NA27344 and DE-FC02-04ER54698.

Negative regulation of DAB2IP by Akt and SCFFbw7 pathways.

PubMed

Dai, Xiangping; North, Brian J; Inuzuka, Hiroyuki

2014-05-30

Deletion of ovarian carcinoma 2/disabled homolog 2 (DOC-2/DAB2) interacting protein (DAB2IP), is a tumor suppressor that serves as a scaffold protein involved in coordinately regulating cell proliferation, survival and apoptotic pathways. DAB2IP is epigenetically down-regulated in a variety of tumors through the action of the histone methyltransferase EZH2. Although DAB2IP is transcriptionally down-regulated in a variety of tumors, it remains unclear if other mechanisms contribute to functional inactivation of DAB2IP. Here we demonstrate that DAB2IP can be functionally down-regulated by two independent mechanisms. First, we identified that Akt1 can phosphorylate DAB2IP on S847, which regulates the interaction between DAB2IP and its effector molecules H-Ras and TRAF2. Second, we demonstrated that DAB2IP can be degraded in part through ubiquitin-proteasome pathway by SCF(Fbw7). DAB2IP harbors two Fbw7 phosho-degron motifs, which can be regulated by the kinase, CK1δ. Our data hence indicate that in addition to epigenetic down-regulation, two additional pathways can functional inactivate DAB2IP. Given that DAB2IP has previously been identified to possess direct causal role in tumorigenesis and metastasis, our data indicate that a variety of pathways may pass through DAB2IP to govern cancer development, and therefore highlight DAB2IP agonists as potential therapeutic approaches for future anti-cancer drug development.

Salt Lake City Area Integrated Projects Electric Power Marketing. Draft environmental impact statement: Volume 4, Appendixes B-D

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

Not Available

1994-02-01

The Salt Lake City Area Office of the Western Area Power Administration (Western) markets electricity produced at hydroelectric facilities operated by the Bureau of Reclamation. The facilities are known collectively as the Salt Lake City Area Integrated Projects (SLCA/IP) and include dams equipped for power generation on the Green, Gunnison, Rio Grande, and Colorado rivers and on Deer and Plateau creeks in the states of Wyoming, Utah, Colorado, Arizona, and New Mexico. Of these facilities, only the Glen Canyon Unit, the Flaming Gorge Unit, and the Aspinall Unit (which includes Blue Mesa, Morrow Point, and Crystal dams;) are influenced bymore » Western power scheduling and transmission decisions. The EIS alternatives, called commitment-level alternatives, reflect combinations of capacity and energy that would feasibly and reasonably fulfill Westerns firm power marketing responsibilities, needs, and statutory obligations. The viability of these alternatives relates directly to the combination of generation capability of the SLCA/IP with energy purchases and interchange. The economic and natural resource assessments in this environmental impact statement (EIS) include an analysis of commitment-level alternatives. Impacts of the no-action alternative are also assessed. Supply options, which include combinations of electrical power purchases and hydropower operational scenarios reflecting different operations of the dams, are also assessed. The EIS evaluates the impacts of these scenarios relative to socioeconomics, air resources, water resources, ecological resources, cultural resources, land use, recreation, and visual resources.« less

Salt Lake City Area Integrated Projects Electric Power Marketing. Draft environmental impact statement: Volume 2, Sections 1-16

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

Not Available

The Salt Lake City Area Office of the Western Area Power Administration (Western) markets electricity produced at hydroelectric facilities operated by the Bureau of Reclamation. The facilities are known collectively as the Salt Lake City Area Integrated Projects (SLCA/IP) and include dams equipped for power generation on the Green, Gunnison, Rio Grande, and Colorado rivers and on Deer and Plateau creeks in the states of Wyoming, Utah, Colorado, Arizona, and New Mexico. Of these facilities, only the Glen Canyon Unit, the Flaming Gorge Unit, and the Aspinall Unit (which includes Blue Mesa, Morrow Point, and Crystal dams;) are influenced bymore » Western power scheduling and transmission decisions. The EIS alternatives, called commitment-level alternatives, reflect combinations of capacity and energy that would feasibly and reasonably fulfill Westerns firm power marketing responsibilities, needs, and statutory obligations. The viability of these alternatives relates directly to the combination of generation capability of the SLCA/IP with energy purchases and interchange. The economic and natural resource assessments in this environmental impact statement (EIS) include an analysis of commitment-level alternatives. Impacts of the no-action alternative are also assessed. Supply options, which include combinations of electrical power purchases and hydropower operational scenarios reflecting different operations of the dams, are also assessed. The EIS evaluates the impacts of these scenarios relative to socioeconomics, air resources, water resources, ecological resources, cultural resources, land use, recreation, and visual resources.« less

Vaccines and IP Rights: A Multifaceted Relationship.

PubMed

Durell, Karen

2016-01-01

Just as there are many forms of vaccines and components to vaccines-particular compositions, delivery systems, components, and distribution networks-there are a variety of intellectual property (IP) protections applicable for vaccines. IP rights such as patent, copyright, trademarks, plant breeders' rights, and trade secrets may all be applicable to vaccines. Thus, discussion of IP rights and vaccines should not begin and end with the application of one IP right to a vaccine. The discussion should engage considerations of multiple IP rights applicable to a vaccine and how these can be utilized in an integrated manner in a strategy aimed at supporting the development and distribution of the vaccine. Such an approach to IP rights to vaccines allows for the integrated rights to be considered in light of the justifications for protecting vaccines with IP rights, as well as the issues relating to specific IP rights for vaccines, such as compulsory license regimes, available humanitarian purpose IP credits, etc. To view vaccines as the subject of multiple IP protections involves a refocusing, but the outcome can provide significant benefits for vaccine development and distribution.

Factors influencing northern spruce engraver colonization of white spruce slash in interior Alaska

Treesearch

Christopher J. Fettig; Roger E. Burnside; Chistopher J. Hayes; James J. Kruse; Nicholas J. Lisuzzo; Stephen R. McKelvey; Sylvia R. Mori; Stephen K. Nickel; Mark E. Schultz

2013-01-01

In interior Alaska, increased use of mechanical fuel reduction treatments, increased interests in the use of wood energy systems as alternatives to fossil fuels, and elevated populations of northern spruce engraver, Ips perturbatus (Eichhoff), have raised concerns regarding the impact of this bark beetle to forest resources. We conducted a large-...

78 FR 769 - Notice of Determinations Regarding Eligibility To Apply for Worker Adjustment Assistance

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-01-04

...., ABM Janitorial, etc. 82,185A EEP Quality Group, Inc., East Syracuse, NY... November 27, 2011. Working... section 222 has not been met. TA-W No. Subject firm Location Impact date 81,885 NCO Financial Systems... Systems (PPS), IWS, DDO, ISB, IPS. 82,133 Hewlett-Packard Company, Vancouver, WA. Printing and Personal...

Protective effect of royal jelly on fertility and biochemical parameters in bleomycin-‎induced male rats

PubMed Central

Amirshahi, Tayebeh; Najafi, Gholamreza; Nejati, Vahid

2014-01-01

Background: Bleomycin (BL) is a glycopeptide antibiotic obtained from the bacterium Streptomyces verticillus which is routinely used for treatment of human cancers. Royal jelly (RJ) is a production from the hypo pharyngeal, mandibular and post cerebral glands of nurse bees. RJ consists of 66% water, 15% sugars, 5% lipids, and 13% proteins, essential amino acids and vitamins. Objective: The aim of present study was to evaluate protective effect of royal jelly on sperm parameters and malondialdehyde (MDA) production in rat. Materials and Methods: Forty adult male wistar rats (220±20gr) were randomly divided into 4 groups (n=10). Control group (CG) received normal saline 10 ml/kg twice a week with Intraperitoneal (I.P) for 48 days (0.3 ml/rat(. Royal Jelly group (RJG) received jelly (100 mg/kg daily) for 48 days orally. Bleomycin group (BLG) received BL (10 mg/kg twice a week) with I.P for 48 days. Royal Jelly+ Bleomycin group (RJ+BLG) received royal Jelly (100 mg/kg /day) orally concomitant with BL administration. Sperm count, motility, and viability were investigated and chromatin quality and DNA integrity were also analyzed. Serum testosterone and MDA concentrations were measured as well. Results: BL caused decline significantly (p<0.05) sperm count, sperm viability, motility as well as testosterone concentration compared to control group while significant (p<0.05) increases in immature sperm, sperm with damaged DNA and MDA concentration were announced in BL in comparison with CG and RJ+BLG. Royal jelly improved Bleomycin-induced toxicity on sperm parameters and testosterone and MDA concentrations. Conclusion: The present results support the idea that BL adversely affects sperm parameters and MDA and the RJ with antioxidant properties has positive effects on these parameters. This article extracted from M.Sc. thesis. (Tayebeh amirshahi) PMID:24799882

75 FR 26701 - Telecommunications Relay Services and Speech-to-Speech Services for Individuals With Hearing and...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-05-12

... Services (CTS), Internet Protocol (IP) CTS, IP Relay, and Video Relay Services (VRS), for the 2010-2011... comment on NECA's proposed compensation rates for TRS, STS, CTS, IP CTS, IP Relay, and VRS, for the 2010... interstate traditional TRS; $3.1566 for STS; $1.6951 for CTS and IP CTS; $1.2985 for IP Relay. Based on these...

Transmitted irradiance through ceramics: effect on the mechanical properties of a luting resin cement.

PubMed

Ilie, Nicoleta

2017-05-01

The study aims to characterise the curing behaviour of a light-curing luting composite (Variolink® Aesthetic LC, Ivoclar Vivadent) polymerised at different exposure times (10 s, 20 s) through different ceramics (IPS Empress CAD and IPS e.max CAD, Ivoclar Vivadent) and ceramic thicknesses (no ceramic, 0.5, 1, 1.5 and 2 mm). Curing units' (Bluephase Style, Ivoclar Vivadent) variation in irradiance delivered up to 10-mm exposure distance as well as the incident and transmitted irradiance and radiant exposure up to 6-mm ceramic thickness were assessed on a laboratory-grade spectrometer. A total of 216 (18 groups, n = 12) thin and flat luting composite specimens of 500-μm thickness were prepared and stored after curing in a saturated vapour atmosphere for 24 h at 37 °C. Micro-mechanical properties (Vickers hardness, HV and indentation modulus, Y HU ) were determined by means of an automatic micro-hardness indenter. Within the study design, the radiant exposure received by the luting composite varied from 2.56 to 24.75 J/cm 2 , showing a high impact on the measured properties. Comparing the effect of the parameters exposure time, ceramic thickness and type, the highest influence on the micro-mechanical parameters was identified for exposure time, while this influence was stronger on HV (p < 0.001, η P 2  = 0.452) than on Y HU (p < 0.001, η P 2  = 0.178). The influence of ceramic type was significant but low (η P 2  = 0.161 on HV and 0.113 on Y HU ), while the influence of ceramic thickness was the lowest (η P 2  = 0.04 and 0.05, respectively). Slightly higher irradiance values were transmitted through Empress CAD up to a ceramic thickness of 3 mm (p < 0.001), while being comparable with e.max for thicker slices. Differences in translucency between ceramics were reflected in the micro-mechanical properties of the luting composite. The radiant exposure reaching the luting composite is determined by the incident irradiance, exposure time, ceramic type and ceramic thickness. At the analysed incident irradiance, exposure time was the most consistent parameter affecting the micro-mechanical properties of the luting composite, and this effect was strongly reflected in the more translucent ceramic Empress CAD. Within the curing conditions, an exposure time of 20 s is recommended.

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

Orellana, S.A.; Trilivas, I.; Brown, J.H.

Carbachol and guanine nucleotides stimulate formation of the (/sup 3/H)inositol phosphates IP, IP2, and IP3 in saponin-permeabilized monolayers labelled with (/sup 3/H) inositol. Carbachol alone has little effect on formation of the (/sup 3/H) inositol phosphates (IPs), but GTP..gamma..S causes synergistic accumulation of (/sup 3/H)IPs to levels similar to those seen in intact cells. GTP, GppNHp, and GTP..gamma..S all support formation of the (/sup 3/H)IPs, with or without hormone, but GTP..gamma..S is the most effective. In the presence of GTP..gamma..S, the effect of carbachol is dose-dependent. Half-maximal and maximal accumulation of the (/sup 3/H)IPs occur at approx. 5 ..mu..M andmore » approx. 100 ..mu..M carbachol, respectively; values close to those seen in intact cells. GTP..gamma..S alone stimulates formation of the (/sup 3/H)IPs after a brief lag time. The combination of GTP..gamma..S and carbachol both increases the rate of, and decreases the lag in, formation of the (/sup 3/H)IPs. LiCl increases (/sup 3/H)IP and IP2, but not IP3, accumulation; while 2,3-diphosphoglycerate substantially increases that of (/sup 3/H)IP3. GTP..gamma..S and carbachol cause formation of (/sup 3/H)IPs in the absence of Ca/sup + +/, but formation induced by GTP..gamma..S with or without carbachol is Ca/sup + +/-sensitive over a range of physiological concentrations. Although carbachol, Ca/sup + +/, and GTP..gamma..S all have effects on formation of (/sup 3/H)IPs, GTP..gamma..S appears to be a primary and obligatory regulator of phosphoinositide hydrolysis in the permeabilized 1321N1 astrocytoma cell.« less

Structural Studies of Inositol 1,4,5-Trisphosphate Receptor COUPLING LIGAND BINDING TO CHANNEL GATING

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

Chan, Jenny; Yamazaki, Haruka; Ishiyama, Noboru

2010-11-22

The three isoforms of the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor (IP{sub 3}R) exhibit distinct IP{sub 3} sensitivities and cooperativities in calcium (Ca{sup 2+}) channel function. The determinants underlying this isoform-specific channel gating mechanism have been localized to the N-terminal suppressor region of IP3R. We determined the 1.9 {angstrom} crystal structure of the suppressor domain from type 3 IP{sub 3}R (IP{sub 3}R3{sub SUP}, amino acids 1-224) and revealed structural features contributing to isoform-specific functionality of IP{sub 3}R by comparing it with our previously determined structure of the type 1 suppressor domain (IP{sub 3}R1{sub SUP}). The molecular surface known to associate with the ligandmore » binding domain (amino acids 224-604) showed marked differences between IP{sub 3}R3{sub SUP} and IP{sub 3}R1{sub SUP}. Our NMR and biochemical studies showed that three spatially clustered residues (Glu-20, Tyr-167, and Ser-217 in IP{sub 3}R1 and Glu-19, Trp-168, and Ser-218 in IP{sub 3}R3) within the N-terminal suppressor domains of IP{sub 3}R1{sub SUP} and IP{sub 3}R3{sub SUP} interact directly with their respective C-terminal fragments. Together with the accompanying paper (Yamazaki, H., Chan, J., Ikura, M., Michikawa, T., and Mikoshiba, K. (2010) J. Biol. Chem. 285, 36081-36091), we demonstrate that the single aromatic residue in this region (Tyr-167 in IP{sub 3}R1 and Trp-168 in IP{sub 3}R3) plays a critical role in the coupling between ligand binding and channel gating.« less

Apiaceous vegetable consumption decreases PhIP-induced DNA adducts and increases methylated PhIP metabolites in the urine metabolome in rats.

PubMed

Kim, Jae Kyeom; Gallaher, Daniel D; Chen, Chi; Yao, Dan; Trudo, Sabrina P

2015-03-01

Heterocyclic aromatic amines, such as 2-amino-1-methyl-6-phenylimidazo[4,5-b]pyridine (PhIP), are carcinogenic compounds produced during heating of protein-containing foods. Apiaceous vegetables inhibit PhIP-activating enzymes, whereas cruciferous vegetables induce both PhIP-activating and -detoxifying enzymes. We investigated the effects of these vegetables, either alone or combined, on PhIP metabolism and colonic DNA adduct formation in rats. Male Wistar rats were fed cruciferous vegetables (21%, wt:wt), apiaceous vegetables (21%, wt:wt), or a combination of both vegetables (10.5% wt:wt of each). Negative and positive control groups were fed an AIN-93G diet. After 6 d, all groups received an intraperitoneal injection of PhIP (10 mg · kg body weight(-1)) except for the negative control group, which received only vehicle. Urine was collected for 24 h after the injection for LC-tandem mass spectrometry metabolomic analyses. On day 7, rats were killed and tissues processed. Compared with the positive control, cruciferous vegetables increased the activity of hepatic PhIP-activating enzymes [39.5% and 45.1% for cytochrome P450 (CYP) 1A1 (P = 0.0006) and CYP1A2 (P < 0.0001), respectively] and of uridine 5'-diphospho-glucuronosyltransferase 1A (PhIP-detoxifying) by 24.5% (P = 0.0267). Apiaceous vegetables did not inhibit PhIP-activating enzymes, yet reduced colonic PhIP-DNA adducts by 20.4% (P = 0.0496). Metabolomic analyses indicated that apiaceous vegetables increased the relative abundance of urinary methylated PhIP metabolites. The sum of these methylated metabolites inversely correlated with colonic PhIP-DNA adducts (r = -0.43, P = 0.01). We detected a novel methylated urinary PhIP metabolite and demonstrated that methylated metabolites are produced in the human liver S9 fraction. Apiaceous vegetables did not inhibit the activity of PhIP-activating enzymes in rats, suggesting that the reduction in PhIP-DNA adducts may involve other pathways. Further investigation of the importance of PhIP methylation in carcinogen metabolism is warranted, given the inverse correlation of methylated PhIP metabolites with a biomarker of carcinogenesis and the detection of a novel methylated PhIP metabolite. © 2015 American Society for Nutrition.

Apiaceous Vegetable Consumption Decreases PhIP-Induced DNA Adducts and Increases Methylated PhIP Metabolites in the Urine Metabolome in Rats123

PubMed Central

Kim, Jae Kyeom; Gallaher, Daniel D; Chen, Chi; Yao, Dan; Trudo, Sabrina P

2015-01-01

Background: Heterocyclic aromatic amines, such as 2-amino-1-methyl-6-phenylimidazo[4,5-b]pyridine (PhIP), are carcinogenic compounds produced during heating of protein-containing foods. Apiaceous vegetables inhibit PhIP-activating enzymes, whereas cruciferous vegetables induce both PhIP-activating and -detoxifying enzymes. Objective: We investigated the effects of these vegetables, either alone or combined, on PhIP metabolism and colonic DNA adduct formation in rats. Methods: Male Wistar rats were fed cruciferous vegetables (21%, wt:wt), apiaceous vegetables (21%, wt:wt), or a combination of both vegetables (10.5% wt:wt of each). Negative and positive control groups were fed an AIN-93G diet. After 6 d, all groups received an intraperitoneal injection of PhIP (10 mg · kg body weight−1) except for the negative control group, which received only vehicle. Urine was collected for 24 h after the injection for LC–tandem mass spectrometry metabolomic analyses. On day 7, rats were killed and tissues processed. Results: Compared with the positive control, cruciferous vegetables increased the activity of hepatic PhIP-activating enzymes [39.5% and 45.1% for cytochrome P450 (CYP) 1A1 (P = 0.0006) and CYP1A2 (P < 0.0001), respectively] and of uridine 5′-diphospho-glucuronosyltransferase 1A (PhIP-detoxifying) by 24.5% (P = 0.0267). Apiaceous vegetables did not inhibit PhIP-activating enzymes, yet reduced colonic PhIP-DNA adducts by 20.4% (P = 0.0496). Metabolomic analyses indicated that apiaceous vegetables increased the relative abundance of urinary methylated PhIP metabolites. The sum of these methylated metabolites inversely correlated with colonic PhIP-DNA adducts (r = −0.43, P = 0.01). We detected a novel methylated urinary PhIP metabolite and demonstrated that methylated metabolites are produced in the human liver S9 fraction. Conclusions: Apiaceous vegetables did not inhibit the activity of PhIP-activating enzymes in rats, suggesting that the reduction in PhIP-DNA adducts may involve other pathways. Further investigation of the importance of PhIP methylation in carcinogen metabolism is warranted, given the inverse correlation of methylated PhIP metabolites with a biomarker of carcinogenesis and the detection of a novel methylated PhIP metabolite. PMID:25733458

Analysis of minocycline as a countermeasure against acute radiation syndrome.

PubMed

Mehrotra, Shalini; Pecaut, Michael J; Gridley, Daila S

2012-01-01

To evaluate the impact of an antibiotic, minocycline, on several immune parameters in response to radiation in a mouse model. C57BL/6 mice were treated with minocycline (i.p.) for 5 days, beginning immediately before radiation with 1-3 Gy (60)Co γ-rays. Spleen and blood were collected on day 4 post-irradiation. Cell populations were determined in the blood and spleen. Splenocytes were activated with anti-CD3 antibody for 48 h and cytokines were quantified. Minocycline increased the counts and/or percentages of splenic macrophages, granulocytes, natural killer, T- and CD8(+) T-cells (p<0.05 versus radiation alone). Minocycline significantly increased the expression of interleukin-1α and β, which are radioprotective, as well as the ones of granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor and granulocyte colony-stimulating factor, which accelerate neutrophil recovery (p<0.05 versus radiation alone), while suppressing cytokines that could prevent hematopoiesis, e.g. macrophage inflammatory protein-1α, tumor necrosis factor-α and interferon-γ. These data indicate that minocycline should be further tested for use in restoration of the hematopoietic system after radiation exposure.

Microphysical explanation of the RH‐dependent water affinity of biogenic organic aerosol and its importance for climate

PubMed Central

Rastak, N.; Pajunoja, A.; Acosta Navarro, J. C.; Ma, J.; Song, M.; Partridge, D. G.; Kirkevåg, A.; Leong, Y.; Hu, W. W.; Taylor, N. F.; Lambe, A.; Cerully, K.; Bougiatioti, A.; Liu, P.; Krejci, R.; Petäjä, T.; Percival, C.; Davidovits, P.; Worsnop, D. R.; Ekman, A. M. L.; Nenes, A.; Martin, S.; Jimenez, J. L.; Collins, D. R.; Topping, D.O.; Bertram, A. K.; Zuend, A.; Virtanen, A.

2017-01-01

Abstract A large fraction of atmospheric organic aerosol (OA) originates from natural emissions that are oxidized in the atmosphere to form secondary organic aerosol (SOA). Isoprene (IP) and monoterpenes (MT) are the most important precursors of SOA originating from forests. The climate impacts from OA are currently estimated through parameterizations of water uptake that drastically simplify the complexity of OA. We combine laboratory experiments, thermodynamic modeling, field observations, and climate modeling to (1) explain the molecular mechanisms behind RH‐dependent SOA water‐uptake with solubility and phase separation; (2) show that laboratory data on IP‐ and MT‐SOA hygroscopicity are representative of ambient data with corresponding OA source profiles; and (3) demonstrate the sensitivity of the modeled aerosol climate effect to assumed OA water affinity. We conclude that the commonly used single‐parameter hygroscopicity framework can introduce significant error when quantifying the climate effects of organic aerosol. The results highlight the need for better constraints on the overall global OA mass loadings and its molecular composition, including currently underexplored anthropogenic and marine OA sources. PMID:28781391

Extending Tactical Fleet Communications Through VoIP

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-09-01

corporate world , the military is leveraging VoIP communication solutions as well. Shore commands like Tactical Training Group Pacific use VoIP for...VoIP fuzzing (e.g., Asteroid , PROTOS, Sip-Proxy)  VoIP signaling manipulation (e.g., IAXAuthJack, IAXHangup, SIP-Kill)  VoIP media...as well, but instead of just matching the information to rules, it compares synchronization information between the protocols to determine if the

The prevalence of gastric heterotopia of the proximal esophagus is underestimated, but preneoplasia is rare - correlation with Barrett's esophagus.

PubMed

Peitz, Ulrich; Vieth, Michael; Evert, Matthias; Arand, Jovana; Roessner, Albert; Malfertheiner, Peter

2017-07-12

The previously reported prevalence of gastric heterotopia in the cervical esophagus, also termed inlet patch (IP), varies substantially, ranging from 0.18 to 14%. Regarding cases with adenocarcinoma within IP, some experts recommend to routinely obtain biopsies from IP for histopathology. Another concern is the reported relation to Barrett's esophagus. The objectives of the study were to prospectively determine the prevalence of IP and of preneoplasia within IP, and to investigate the association between IP and Barrett's esophagus. 372 consecutive patients undergoing esophagogastroduodenoscopy were carefully searched for the presence of IP. Biopsies for histopathology were targeted to the IP, columnar metaplasia of the lower esophagus, gastric corpus and antrum. Different definitions of Barrett's esophagus were tested for an association with IP. At least one IP was endoscopically identified in 53 patients (14.5%). Histopathology, performed in 46 patients, confirmed columnar epithelium in 87% of cases, which essentially presented corpus and/or cardia-type mucosa. Intestinal metaplasia was detected in two cases, but no neoplasia. A previously reported association of IP with Barrett's esophagus was weak, statistically significant only when short segments of cardia-type mucosa of the lower esophagus were included in the definition of Barrett's esophagus. The prevalence of IP seems to be underestimated, but preneoplasia within IP is rare, which does not support the recommendation to regularly obtain biopsies for histopathology. Biopsies should be targeted to any irregularities within the heterotopic mucosa. The correlation of IP with Barrett's esophagus hints to a partly common pathogenesis.

Intake of meat mutagens and risk of prostate cancer in a cohort of U.S. health professionals

PubMed Central

Rohrmann, Sabine; Nimptsch, Katharina; Sinha, Rashmi; Willett, Walter C; Giovannucci, Edward L.; Platz, Elizabeth A; Wu, Kana

2015-01-01

Background Evidence relating heterocyclic aromatic amines (HCA), associated with high-temperature cooking methods, to prostate cancer risk is inconsistent Methods In a large US cohort study, intakes of 2-amino-1-methyl-6-phenylimidazo[4,5-b]pyridine (PhIP), 2-amino-3,8-dimethylimidazo[4,5-f]quinoxaline (MeIQx) and 2-amino-3,4,8-trimethylimidazo[4,5-f]quinoxaline (DiMeIQx) and a meat-derived mutagenicity index (MDM) were assessed using a cooking method questionnaire administered in 1996. Until 2010, 2,770 prostate cancer cases were observed among 26,030 participants. Results Intake of PhIP from red meat was statistically significantly associated with total prostate cancer risk (top vs. bottom quintile HR=1.18, 95% CI 1.03–1.35), but not other HCAs (MeIQx, 1.12, 0.98–1.27, PhIP from white meat, 1.08, 0.95–1.22, DiMeIQx, 1.09, 0.97–1.21) or MDM (1.13, 1.00–1.28). For high grade (Gleason sum 7 with pattern 4+3 and Gleason sum 8–10, n=483 cases) and advanced cancers (n=281), we only observed positive associations for PhIP from red meat (top vs. bottom quintile: high grade: HR=1.44, 95% CI 1.04–1.98, p-trend=0.03; advanced: HR=1.50, 95% 0.99–2.26; p-trend=0.12), but associations for advanced cancers did not reach statistical significance. Observed associations remained similar after adjustment for total, unprocessed or processed red meat intake. Conclusion Observed positive associations between PhIP intake from red meat and prostate cancer, particularly high-grade and possibly also advanced prostate cancer need to be confirmed in other studies. Impact Results do not provide strong evidence that HCAs increase risk of prostate cancers. PMID:26224797

Pediatric injury prevention programs: Identifying markers for success and sustainability.

PubMed

Chaudhary, Sofia; Pomerantz, Wendy J; Miller, Beverly; Pan, Anqi; Agarwal, Maneesha

2017-11-01

Injury is the leading cause of death in children. Although many pediatric hospitals and trauma centers provide injury prevention (IP) programming, there is no national standard. This study aims to identify characteristics of a sustainable and successful IP program by querying programs affiliated with the Injury Free Coalition for Kids (IFCK). The IFCK sites were sent a 30-question survey via e-mail. Questions focused on demographics, scope of IP activities, self-efficacy, and outcome measures including finances, academic productivity, and legislative advocacy. Counts and frequencies were calculated and compared using χ tests. The survey was completed by 38 (90.4%) of 42 sites. The majority were associated with a freestanding children's hospital (57.9%) and Level I pediatric trauma center (86.8%). Most programs (79%) had at least one dedicated full-time equivalent (FTE) staff. Research was most common on child passenger safety and teen driving. Nearly 30% of programs offered educational curricula to health care providers; these sites were more likely to have FTE support (p = 0.036). Steady sources of funding were identified for 60.5% of programs, with 47.8% citing their hospital as the primary source; 73% of respondents were confident in their program's capacity to sustain activities; these were more likely to be larger programs (p = 0.001) with steady sources of funding (p < 0.001). Despite 73.7% of sites having academic affiliations, 60.5% had 5 or fewer publications over the previous 5 years. In the prior 2 years, 55.3% of programs impacted legislative or policy changes. Funding, size of program, and FTE had no statistical correlation with research productivity or number of legislative/policy contributions. This study characterizes the variation among pediatric IP programs within IFCK sites, while highlighting the association between financial and FTE support from programs' institutions with sustainable IP programming. These results can assist programs in identifying differences in relation to their peers.

77 FR 33227 - Assessment Questionnaire-IP Sector Specific Agency Risk Self Assessment Tool (IP-SSARSAT)

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-06-05

... DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY [Docket No. DHS-2011-0069] Assessment Questionnaire--IP Sector Specific Agency Risk Self Assessment Tool (IP-SSARSAT) AGENCY: National Protection and Programs Directorate...), Office of Infrastructure Protection (IP), Sector Outreach and Programs Division (SOPD), previously named...

76 FR 81955 - Assessment Questionnaire-IP Sector Specific Agency Risk Self Assessment Tool (IP-SSARSAT)

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-12-29

... DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY [Docket No. DHS-2011-0069] Assessment Questionnaire--IP Sector Specific Agency Risk Self Assessment Tool (IP-SSARSAT) AGENCY: National Protection and Programs Directorate...), Office of Infrastructure Protection (IP), Sector Specific Agency Executive Management Office (SSA EMO...

Running TCP/IP over ATM Networks.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Witt, Michael

1995-01-01

Discusses Internet protocol (IP) and subnets and describes how IP may operate over asynchronous transfer mode (ATM). Topics include TCP (transmission control protocol), ATM cells and adaptation layers, a basic architectural model for IP over ATM, address resolution, mapping IP to a subnet technology, and connection management strategy. (LRW)

Beat the Rush

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Panettieri, Joseph C.

2008-01-01

Despite the hype, IP convergence does not happen overnight. Navigating the IP convergence market is not easy. Some network equipment makers are taking traditional voice over IP (VoIP) product lines and rebranding them as unified communications offerings. But beware: While closely related, VoIP and UC are not the same. Generally speaking, VoIP…

VoIP Accessibility: A Usability Study of Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) Systems and A Survey of VoIP Users with Vision Loss

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Packer, Jaclyn; Reuschel, William

2018-01-01

Introduction: Accessibility of Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) systems was tested with a hands-on usability study and an online survey of VoIP users who are visually impaired. The survey examined the importance of common VoIP features, and both methods assessed difficulty in using those features. Methods: The usability test included four paid…

Space Network IP Services (SNIS): An Architecture for Supporting Low Earth Orbiting IP Satellite Missions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Israel, David J.

2005-01-01

The NASA Space Network (SN) supports a variety of missions using the Tracking and Data Relay Satellite System (TDRSS), which includes ground stations in White Sands, New Mexico and Guam. A Space Network IP Services (SNIS) architecture is being developed to support future users with requirements for end-to-end Internet Protocol (IP) communications. This architecture will support all IP protocols, including Mobile IP, over TDRSS Single Access, Multiple Access, and Demand Access Radio Frequency (RF) links. This paper will describe this architecture and how it can enable Low Earth Orbiting IP satellite missions.

A Short Introduction to Intellectual Property Rights.

PubMed

Voss, Trina; Paranjpe, Arvin S; Cook, Travis G; Garrison, Nicole D W

2017-06-01

Intellectual property (IP) is a term that describes a number of distinct types of intangible assets. IP protection allows a rightsholder to exclude others from interfering with or using the property right in specified ways. The main forms of IP are patents, copyrights, trademarks, and trade secrets. Each type of IP protection is different, varying in the subject matter that can be covered, timeframe of protection, and total expense. Although some inventions may be covered by multiple types of IP protection, it is important to consider a number of business and legal factors before selecting the best protection strategy. Some technologies require strong IP protection to commercialize, but unnecessary costs can derail bringing a product to market. IP departments of organizations weigh these various considerations and perform essential IP protection functions. This primer introduces researchers to the main forms of IP and its legal aspects. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Measuring Sister Chromatid Cohesion Protein Genome Occupancy in Drosophila melanogaster by ChIP-seq.

PubMed

Dorsett, Dale; Misulovin, Ziva

2017-01-01

This chapter presents methods to conduct and analyze genome-wide chromatin immunoprecipitation of the cohesin complex and the Nipped-B cohesin loading factor in Drosophila cells using high-throughput DNA sequencing (ChIP-seq). Procedures for isolation of chromatin, immunoprecipitation, and construction of sequencing libraries for the Ion Torrent Proton high throughput sequencer are detailed, and computational methods to calculate occupancy as input-normalized fold-enrichment are described. The results obtained by ChIP-seq are compared to those obtained by ChIP-chip (genomic ChIP using tiling microarrays), and the effects of sequencing depth on the accuracy are analyzed. ChIP-seq provides similar sensitivity and reproducibility as ChIP-chip, and identifies the same broad regions of occupancy. The locations of enrichment peaks, however, can differ between ChIP-chip and ChIP-seq, and low sequencing depth can splinter broad regions of occupancy into distinct peaks.

The inositol trisphosphate receptor in the control of autophagy.

PubMed

Criollo, Alfredo; Vicencio, José Miguel; Tasdemir, Ezgi; Maiuri, M Chiara; Lavandero, Sergio; Kroemer, Guido

2007-01-01

The second messenger myo-inositol-1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP(3)) acts on the IP(3) receptor (IP(3)R), an IP(3)-activated Ca(2+) channel of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). The IP(3)R agonist IP(3) inhibits starvation-induced autophagy. The IP(3)R antagonist xestospongin B induces autophagy in human cells through a pathway that requires the obligate contribution of Beclin-1, Atg5, Atg10, Atg12 and hVps34, yet is inhibited by ER-targeted Bcl-2 or Bcl-XL, two proteins that physically interact with IP(3)R. Autophagy can also be induced by depletion of the IP(3)R by small interfering RNAs. Autophagy induction by IP(3)R blockade cannot be explained by changes in steady state levels of Ca(2+) in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and the cytosol. Autophagy induction by IP(3)R blockade is effective in cells lacking the obligate mediator of ER stress IRE1. In contrast, IRE1 is required for autophagy induced by ER stress-inducing agents such a tunicamycin or thapsigargin. These findings suggest that there are several distinct pathways through which autophagy can be initiated at the level of the ER.

ChIP-PIT: Enhancing the Analysis of ChIP-Seq Data Using Convex-Relaxed Pair-Wise Interaction Tensor Decomposition.

PubMed

Zhu, Lin; Guo, Wei-Li; Deng, Su-Ping; Huang, De-Shuang

2016-01-01

In recent years, thanks to the efforts of individual scientists and research consortiums, a huge amount of chromatin immunoprecipitation followed by high-throughput sequencing (ChIP-seq) experimental data have been accumulated. Instead of investigating them independently, several recent studies have convincingly demonstrated that a wealth of scientific insights can be gained by integrative analysis of these ChIP-seq data. However, when used for the purpose of integrative analysis, a serious drawback of current ChIP-seq technique is that it is still expensive and time-consuming to generate ChIP-seq datasets of high standard. Most researchers are therefore unable to obtain complete ChIP-seq data for several TFs in a wide variety of cell lines, which considerably limits the understanding of transcriptional regulation pattern. In this paper, we propose a novel method called ChIP-PIT to overcome the aforementioned limitation. In ChIP-PIT, ChIP-seq data corresponding to a diverse collection of cell types, TFs and genes are fused together using the three-mode pair-wise interaction tensor (PIT) model, and the prediction of unperformed ChIP-seq experimental results is formulated as a tensor completion problem. Computationally, we propose efficient first-order method based on extensions of coordinate descent method to learn the optimal solution of ChIP-PIT, which makes it particularly suitable for the analysis of massive scale ChIP-seq data. Experimental evaluation the ENCODE data illustrate the usefulness of the proposed model.

Dyslipidemia rather than Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus or Chronic Periodontitis Affects the Systemic Expression of Pro- and Anti-Inflammatory Genes.

PubMed

Nepomuceno, Rafael; Villela, Bárbara Scoralick; Corbi, Sâmia Cruz Tfaile; Bastos, Alliny De Souza; Dos Santos, Raquel Alves; Takahashi, Catarina Satie; Orrico, Silvana Regina Perez; Scarel-Caminaga, Raquel Mantuaneli

2017-01-01

A high percentage of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D) patients are also affected by dyslipidemia and chronic periodontitis (CP), but no studies have determined the gene expression in patients that are simultaneously affected by all three diseases. We investigated the systemic expression of immune-related genes in T2D, dyslipidemia, and CP patients. One hundred and fifty patients were separated into five groups containing 30 individuals each: (G1) poorly controlled T2D with dyslipidemia and CP; (G2) well-controlled T2D with dyslipidemia and CP; (G3) normoglycemic individuals with dyslipidemia and CP; (G4) healthy individuals with CP; (G5) systemic and periodontally healthy individuals. Blood analyses of lipid and glycemic profiles were carried out. The expression of genes, including IL10, JAK1, STAT3, SOCS3, IP10, ICAM1, IFNA, IFNG, STAT1, and IRF1, was investigated by RT-qPCR. Patients with dyslipidemia demonstrated statistically higher expression of the IL10 and IFNA genes, while IFNG, IP10, IRF1, JAK1, and STAT3 were lower in comparison with nondyslipidemic patients. Anti-inflammatory genes, such as IL10 , positively correlated with parameters of glucose, lipid, and periodontal profiles, while proinflammatory genes, such as IFNG , were negatively correlated with these parameters. We conclude that dyslipidemia appears to be the primary disease that is associated with gene expression of immune-related genes, while parameters of T2D and CP were correlated with the expression of these important immune genes.

Relationship between Human Pupillary Light Reflex and Circadian System Status

PubMed Central

Bonmati-Carrion, Maria Angeles; Hild, Konstanze; Isherwood, Cheryl; Sweeney, Stephen J.; Revell, Victoria L.; Skene, Debra J.; Rol, Maria Angeles; Madrid, Juan Antonio

2016-01-01

Intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs), whose photopigment melanopsin has a peak of sensitivity in the short wavelength range of the spectrum, constitute a common light input pathway to the olivary pretectal nucleus (OPN), the pupillary light reflex (PLR) regulatory centre, and to the suprachiasmatic nuclei (SCN), the major pacemaker of the circadian system. Thus, evaluating PLR under short wavelength light (λmax ≤ 500 nm) and creating an integrated PLR parameter, as a possible tool to indirectly assess the status of the circadian system, becomes of interest. Nine monochromatic, photon-matched light stimuli (300 s), in 10 nm increments from λmax 420 to 500 nm were administered to 15 healthy young participants (8 females), analyzing: i) the PLR; ii) wrist temperature (WT) and motor activity rhythms (WA), iii) light exposure (L) pattern and iv) diurnal preference (Horne-Östberg), sleep quality (Pittsburgh) and daytime sleepiness (Epworth). Linear correlations between the different PLR parameters and circadian status index obtained from WT, WA and L recordings and scores from questionnaires were calculated. In summary, we found markers of robust circadian rhythms, namely high stability, reduced fragmentation, high amplitude, phase advance and low internal desynchronization, were correlated with a reduced PLR to 460–490 nm wavelengths. Integrated circadian (CSI) and PLR (cp-PLR) parameters are proposed, that also showed an inverse correlation. These results demonstrate, for the first time, the existence of a close relationship between the circadian system robustness and the pupillary reflex response, two non-visual functions primarily under melanopsin-ipRGC input. PMID:27636197

Dynamic traffic grooming with Spectrum Engineering (TG-SE) in flexible grid optical networks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yu, Xiaosong; Zhao, Yongli; Zhang, Jiawei; Wang, Jianping; Zhang, Guoying; Chen, Xue; Zhang, Jie

2015-12-01

Flexible grid has emerged as an evolutionary technology to satisfy the ever increasing demand for higher spectrum efficiency and operational flexibility. To optimize the spectrum resource utilization, this paper introduces the concept of Spectrum Engineering in flex-grid optical networks. The sliceable optical transponder has been proposed to offload IP traffic to the optical layer and reduce the number of IP router ports and transponders. We discuss the impact of sliceable transponder in traffic grooming and propose several traffic-grooming schemes with Spectrum Engineering (TG-SE). Our results show that there is a tradeoff among different traffic grooming policies, which should be adopted based on the network operator's objectives. The proposed traffic grooming with Spectrum Engineering schemes can reduce OPEX as well as increase spectrum efficiency by efficiently utilizing the bandwidth variability and capability of sliceable optical transponders.

Methylation of zebularine: a quantum mechanical study incorporating interactive 3D pdf graphs.

PubMed

Selvam, Lalitha; Vasilyev, Vladislav; Wang, Feng

2009-08-20

Methylation of a cytidine deaminase inhibitor, 1-(beta-D-ribofuranosyl)-2-pyrimidone (i.e., zebularine (zeb)), which produces 1-(beta-D-ribofuranosyl)-5-methyl-2-pyrimidinone (d5), has been investigated using density functional theory models. The optimized structures of zeb and d5 and the valence orbitals primarily responsible for the methylation in d5 are presented using state-of-the-art interactive (on a computer or online) three-dimensional (3D) graphics in a portable document format (pdf) file, 3D-PDF (http://www.web3d.org/x3d/vrml/ ). The facility to embed 3D molecular structures into pdf documents has been developed jointly at Swinburne University of Technology and the National Computational Infrastructure, the Australian National University. The methyl fragment in the base moiety shows little effect on the sugar puckering but apparently affects anisotropic properties, such as condensed Fukui functions. Binding energy spectra, both valence space and core space, are noticeably affected; in particular, in the outer-valence space (e.g., IP < 20 eV). The methyl fragment delocalizes and diffuses into almost all valence space, but orbitals 8 (57a, IP = 12.57 eV), 18 (47a, IP = 14.70 eV), and 37 (28a, IP = 22.15 eV) are identified as fingerprint for the methyl fragment. In the inner shell, however, the impact of the methyl can be localized and identified by chemical shift. A small, global, red shift is found for the O-K, N-K and sugar C-K spectra, whereas the base C-K spectrum exhibits apparent methyl-related changes.

Effects of methotrexate upon inflammatory parameters induced by carrageenan in the mouse model of pleurisy.

PubMed Central

Dalmarco, Eduardo Monguilhott; Fröde, Tânia Silvia; Medeiros, Yara Santos

2002-01-01

BACKGROUND: The model of pleurisy induced by carrageenan exhibits a biphasic response (4 and 48 h) and permits the quantification of exudate, cell migration and certain enzymes such as myeloperoxidase (MPO) and adenosine-deaminase (ADA) that are markers of activated leukocytes. AIMS: The present study evaluates whether there exists, in the pleurisy model, a significant inhibition of ADA and MPO enzymes, leukocyte kinetics and other markers of inflammation [nitric oxide (NO) levels, exudation] caused by methotrexate treatment by the intraperitoneal (i.p.) route. METHODS: The pleurisy was induced by carrageenan (1%) in mice, and the parameters were analyzed 4 and 48 h after. RESULTS: After the induction of inflammation (4 h), methotrexate (20 mg/kg, i.p., 24 h before pleurisy induction) inhibited the leukocyte infiltration (p < 0.05), NO levels and MPO activity (p < 0.01), but not ADA activity and fluid leakage (p > 0.05). Regarding the second phase of pleurisy (48 h), methotrexate (40 mg/kg, i.p., 0.5 h before pleurisy induction) inhibited the leukocyte infiltration (p < 0.05), fluid leakage, NO levels (p < 0.01), and ADA and MPO activity (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: These findings support the evidence that the acute administration of methotrexate has an important systemic anti-inflammatory activity in the studied inflammatory model. This effect was due to a significant inhibition on both neutrophil and mononuclear cells, being less marked in relation to exudation 48 h after. In relation to the enzymes studied and to NO levels, the findings support the evidence that methotrexate inhibits both enzymes (MPO and ADA) from leukocytes at the site of injury, thus reflecting the activation of both neutrophils and lymphocytes, respectively. Furthermore, the inhibiting effect on NO in both phases of pleurisy induced by carrageenan (4 and 48 h) indicates that methotrexate acts on constitutive and/or inducible NO synthases by means of different cells of the pleural cavity. PMID:12467522

River food webs: an integrative approach to bottom-up flow webs, top-down impact webs, and trophic position.

PubMed

Benke, Arthur C

2018-03-31

The majority of food web studies are based on connectivity, top-down impacts, bottom-up flows, or trophic position (TP), and ecologists have argued for decades which is best. Rarely have any two been considered simultaneously. The present study uses a procedure that integrates the last three approaches based on taxon-specific secondary production and gut analyses. Ingestion flows are quantified to create a flow web and the same data are used to quantify TP for all taxa. An individual predator's impacts also are estimated using the ratio of its ingestion (I) of each prey to prey production (P) to create an I/P web. This procedure was applied to 41 invertebrate taxa inhabiting submerged woody habitat in a southeastern U.S. river. A complex flow web starting with five basal food resources had 462 flows >1 mg·m -2 ·yr -1 , providing far more information than a connectivity web. Total flows from basal resources to primary consumers/omnivores were dominated by allochthonous amorphous detritus and ranged from 1 to >50,000 mg·m -2 ·yr -1 . Most predator-prey flows were much lower (<50 mg·m -2 ·yr -1 ), but some were >1,000  mg·m -2 ·yr -1 . The I/P web showed that 83% of individual predator impacts were weak (<10%), whereas total predator impacts were often strong (e.g., 35% of prey sustained an impact >90%). Quantitative estimates of TP ranged from 2 to 3.7, contrasting sharply with seven integer-based trophic levels based on longest feeding chain. Traditional omnivores (TP = 2.4-2.9) played an important role by consuming more prey and exerting higher impacts on primary consumers than strict predators (TP ≥ 3). This study illustrates how simultaneous quantification of flow pathways, predator impacts, and TP together provide an integrated characterization of natural food webs. © 2018 by the Ecological Society of America.

The subjective value of probabilistic outcomes: Impact of reward magnitude on choice with uncertain rewards in rats.

PubMed

Zoratto, Francesca; Laviola, Giovanni; Adriani, Walter

2016-03-23

Interest is rising for animal modelling of Gambling disorder (GD), which is rapidly emerging as a mental health concern. In the present study, we assessed gambling proneness in male Wistar-Han rats using the "Probabilistic Delivery Task" (PDT). This operant protocol is based on choice between either certain, small amounts of food (SS) or larger amounts of food (LLL) delivered (or not) depending on a given (and progressively decreasing) probability. Here, we manipulated the ratio between large and small reward size to assess the impact of different magnitudes on rats' performance. Specifically, we drew a comparison between threefold (2 vs 6 pellets) and fivefold (1 vs 5 pellets) sizes. As a consequence, the "indifferent point" (IP, at which either choice is mathematically equivalent in terms of total foraging) was at 33% and 20% probability of delivery, respectively. Animals tested with the sharper contrast (i.e. fivefold ratio) exhibited sustained preference for LLL far beyond the IP, despite high uncertainty and low payoff, which rendered LLL a sub-optimal option. By contrast, animals facing a slighter contrast (i.e. threefold ratio) were increasingly disturbed by progressive rarefaction of rewards, as expressed by enhanced inadequate nose-poking: this was in accordance with their prompt shift in preference to SS, already shown around the IP. In conclusion, a five-folded LLL-to-SS ratio was not only more attractive, but also less frustrating than a three-folded one. Thus, a profile of gambling proneness in the PDT is more effectively induced by marked contrast between alternative options. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Breakthrough therapy for peritoneal carcinomatosis of gastric cancer: Intraperitoneal chemotherapy with taxanes.

PubMed

Yamaguchi, Hironori; Kitayama, Joji; Ishigami, Hironori; Kazama, Shinsuke; Nozawa, Hiroaki; Kawai, Kazushige; Hata, Keisuke; Kiyomatsu, Tomomichi; Tanaka, Toshiaki; Tanaka, Junichiro; Nishikawa, Takeshi; Otani, Kensuke; Yasuda, Koji; Ishihara, Soichiro; Sunami, Eiji; Watanabe, Toshiaki

2015-11-15

The effect of chemotherapy on peritoneal carcinomatosis (PC) of gastric cancer remains unclear. Recently, the intraperitoneal (IP) administration of taxanes [e.g., paclitaxel (PTX) and docetaxel (DOC)] during the perioperative period has shown promising results. Herein, we summarized the rationale and methodology for using IP chemotherapy with taxanes and reviewed the clinical results. IP administered taxanes remain in the IP space at an extremely high concentration for 48-72 h. The drug directly infiltrates peritoneal metastatic nodules from the surface and then produces antitumor effects, making it ideal for IP chemotherapy. There are two types of perioperative IP chemotherapy with taxanes: neoadjuvant intraperitoneal and systemic chemotherapy and sequential perioperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy (SPIC). In SPIC, patients receive neoadjuvant IP chemotherapy and the same regimen of IP chemotherapy after cytoreductive surgery (CRS) until disease progression. Usually, a taxane dissolved in 500-1000 mL of saline at ordinary temperature is administered through an IP access port on an outpatient basis. According to phase I studies, the recommended doses (RD) are as follows: IP DOC, 45-60 mg/m(2); IP PTX [without intravenous (IV) PTX], 80 mg/m(2); and IP PTX (with IV PTX), 20 mg/m(2). Phase II studies have reported a median survival time of 14.4-24.6 mo with a 1-year overall survival of 67%-78%. A phase III study comparing S-1 in combination with IP and IV PTX to S-1 with IV cisplatin started in 2011. The prognosis of patients who underwent CRS was better than that of those who did not; however, this was partly due to selection bias. Although several phase II studies have shown promising results, a randomized controlled study is needed to validate the effectiveness of IP chemotherapy with taxanes for PC of gastric cancer.

Specific receptor for inositol-1,4,5-trisphosphate in permeabilized rabbit neutrophils

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

Bradford, P.G.; Spat, A.; Rubin, R.P.

1986-03-05

Neutrophil chemotaxis and degranulation are resultant, in part, from the mobilization of intracellular calcium by inositol-1,4,5-trisphosphate ((1,4,5)IP/sub 3/), one of the products of chemoattractant-stimulated phospholipase C activity. High specific activity (ca. 40 Ci/mmol) (/sup 32/P)(1,4,5)IP/sub 3/ was prepared from (..gamma..-/sup 32/P)ATP-labeled human erythrocyte ghosts and was used in binding assays with saponin-permeabilized rabbit peritoneal neutrophils. At 4/sup 0/C and in the presence of inhibitors of the IP/sub 3/ 5-phosphomonoesterase, (/sup 32/P)(1,4,5)IP/sub 3/ rapidly associated with a specific binding component which saturated within 60s. Nonspecific binding, taken as the residual binding in the presence of 10 ..mu..M (1,4,5)IP/sub 3/, was 15%more » of the total. No specific binding was detected using intact cells. The specific binding to permeable cells was reversible (t/sup 1/2/ approx. 60s) and could be inhibited in a dose-dependent manner by (1,4,5)IP/sub 3/ (EC/sub 50/ = 30 nM) and by other calcium mobilizing inositol phosphates ((2,4,5)IP/sub 3/) but not by inactive analogs ((1,4)IP/sub 2/, (4,5)IP/sub 2/, (1)IP). The dose-responses of (1,4,5)IP/sub 3/ and (2,4,5)IP/sub 3/ in inhibiting (/sup 32/P)(1,4,5)IP/sub 3/ specific binding correlated well with their abilities to release Ca/sup 2 +/ from nonmitochondrial vesicular stores in the same preparation of cells, suggesting that the authors have identified the physiological receptor for (1,4,5)IP/sub 3/.« less

49 CFR 172.310 - Class 7 (radioactive) materials.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... packaging, in letters at least 13 mm (0.5 in) high, with the words “TYPE IP-1,” “TYPE IP-2,” “TYPE IP-3,” “TYPE A,” “TYPE B(U)” or “TYPE B(M),” as appropriate. A package which does not conform to Type IP-1, Type IP-2, Type IP-3, Type A, Type B(U) or Type B(M) requirements may not be so marked. (c) Each...

49 CFR 172.310 - Class 7 (radioactive) materials.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... packaging, in letters at least 13 mm (0.5 in) high, with the words “TYPE IP-1,” “TYPE IP-2,” “TYPE IP-3,” “TYPE A,” “TYPE B(U)” or “TYPE B(M),” as appropriate. A package which does not conform to Type IP-1, Type IP-2, Type IP-3, Type A, Type B(U) or Type B(M) requirements may not be so marked. (c) Each...

Characterization of inositol phosphates in carrot (Daucus carota L. ) cells

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

Rincon, M.; Chen, Q.; Boss, W.F.

1989-01-01

We have shown previously that inositol-1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP{sub 3}) stimulates an efflux of {sup 45}Ca{sup 2+} from fusogenic carrot protoplasts. In light of these results, we suggested that IP{sub 3} might serve as a second messenger for the mobilization of intracellular Ca{sup 2+} in higher plant cells. To determine whether or not IP{sub 3} and other inositol phosphates were present in the carrot cells, the cells were labeled with myo-(2-{sup 3}H)inositol for 18 hours and extracted with ice-cold 10% trichloroacetic acid. The inositol metabolites were separated by anion exchange chromatography and by paper electrophoresis. We found that ({sup 3}H)inositol metabolites coelutedmore » with inositol bisphosphate (IP{sub 2}) and IP{sub 3} when separated by anion exchange chromatography. However, we could not detect IP{sub 2} or IP{sub 3} when the inositol metabolites were analyzed by paper electrophoresis even though the polyphosphoinositides, which are the source of IP{sub 2} and IP{sub 3}, were present in these cells. Thus, ({sup 3}H)inositol metabolites other than IP{sub 2} and IP{sub 3} had coeluted on the anion exchange columns. The data indicate that either IP{sub 3} is rapidly metabolized or that it is not present at a detectable level in the carrot cells.« less

Fostering interprofessional learning in a rehabilitation setting: development of an interprofessional clinical learning unit.

PubMed

Vanderzalm, Jeanne; Hall, Mark D; McFarlane, Lu-Anne; Rutherford, Laurie; Patterson, Steven K

2013-01-01

The development and implementation of interprofessional (IP) clinical learning units as a method to enhance IP clinical education and improve patient care in a rehabilitation setting are described. Using a community-based participatory research approach, academia and healthcare delivery agencies formed a partnership to create an IP clinical learning unit in a rehabilitation setting. Preimplementation data from surveys and focus group data identified areas for improvement to enhance IP understanding and collaboration. A working group developed and implemented initiatives to enhance IP practice. Preimplementation, eight themes emerged from which the working group identified goals and implemented strategies to strengthen IP learning. Goals included Creation of an IP Learning Environment, Increased Awareness of IP Practice, Role Clarification, Enhanced IP Communication, and Reflection and Evaluation. Postimplementation data revealed six themes: Communication, Informal IP Learning, Role Awareness, Positive Learning Environment, Logistics, and Challenges. The development of the IP clinical learning unit was successful and rewarding, but not without its challenges. Formal IP education was necessary to enhance collaborative practice, even in a multidisciplinary environment. Commitment and support from all participants, particularly managers and administrators from the healthcare agency, were critical to success. The focus of this unit was on a stroke rehabilitation unit; however, the development and implementation principles identified may be applicable to any team-based clinical setting. © 2013 Association of Rehabilitation Nurses.

Regulation of IP 3 Receptors by IP 3 and Ca 2+

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Taylor, Colin W.; Swatton, Jane E.

Inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate ( IP 3) receptors are intracellular Ca 2+ channels that mediate release of Ca 2+ from intracellular stores. The channels are oligomeric assemblies of four subunits, each of which has an N-terminal IP 3-binding domain and each of which contributes to formation of the Ca 2+ channel. In mammals, three different genes encode IP 3 receptors subunits and the type 1 receptor (and perhaps the type 2 receptor) is also expressed as splice variants. Further diversity arises from assembly of the receptor in hetero- and homo-tetrameric channels. The subtypes differ in their expression and regulation, but they share the key property of being regulated by both IP3 and cytosolic Ca 2+. All three mammalian IP 3 subtypes, and probably also the IP 3 receptors expressed in invertebrates, are biphasically regulated by cytosolic Ca2+, although the underlying mechanisms appear to differ between subtypes. The interactions between IP 3 and Ca 2+ in controlling IP 3 receptor gating, and the physiological significance of such regulation will be reviewed.

The ChIP-exo Method: Identifying Protein-DNA Interactions with Near Base Pair Precision.

PubMed

Perreault, Andrea A; Venters, Bryan J

2016-12-23

Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) is an indispensable tool in the fields of epigenetics and gene regulation that isolates specific protein-DNA interactions. ChIP coupled to high throughput sequencing (ChIP-seq) is commonly used to determine the genomic location of proteins that interact with chromatin. However, ChIP-seq is hampered by relatively low mapping resolution of several hundred base pairs and high background signal. The ChIP-exo method is a refined version of ChIP-seq that substantially improves upon both resolution and noise. The key distinction of the ChIP-exo methodology is the incorporation of lambda exonuclease digestion in the library preparation workflow to effectively footprint the left and right 5' DNA borders of the protein-DNA crosslink site. The ChIP-exo libraries are then subjected to high throughput sequencing. The resulting data can be leveraged to provide unique and ultra-high resolution insights into the functional organization of the genome. Here, we describe the ChIP-exo method that we have optimized and streamlined for mammalian systems and next-generation sequencing-by-synthesis platform.

An Elevation in Physical Coupling of Type 1 IP3 Receptors to TRPC3 Channels Constricts Mesenteric Arteries in Genetic Hypertension

PubMed Central

Adebiyi, Adebowale; Thomas-Gatewood, Candice M.; Leo, M. Dennis; Kidd, Michael W.; Neeb, Zachary P.; Jaggar, Jonathan H.

2013-01-01

Hypertension is associated with an elevation in agonist-induced vasoconstriction, but mechanisms involved require further investigation. Many vasoconstrictors bind to phospholipase C-coupled receptors, leading to an elevation in inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) that activates sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) IP3 receptors (IP3Rs). In cerebral artery myocytes, IP3Rs release SR Ca2+ and can physically couple to canonical transient receptor potential 3 (TRPC3) channels in a caveolin-1-containing macromolecular complex, leading to cation current (ICat) activation that stimulates vasoconstriction. Here, we investigated mechanisms by which IP3Rs control vascular contractility in systemic arteries and IP3R involvement in elevated agonist-induced vasoconstriction during hypertension. Total and plasma membrane-localized TRPC3 protein was ~2.7- and 2-fold higher in mesenteric arteries of hypertensive spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) than in Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rat controls, respectively. In contrast, IP3R1, TRPC1, TRPC6, and caveolin-1 expression was similar. TRPC3 expression was also similar in arteries of pre-hypertensive SHR and WKY rats. Control, IP3- and endothelin-1 (ET-1)-induced FRET between IP3R1 and TRPC3 was higher in hypertensive SHR than WKY myocytes. IP3-induced ICat was ~3-fold larger in SHR myocytes. Pyr3, a selective TRPC3 channel blocker, and CIRBP-TAT, an IP3R-TRP physical coupling inhibitor, reduced IP3-induced ICat and ET-1-induced vasoconstriction more in SHR than WKY myocytes and arteries. Thapsigargin, a SR Ca2+-ATPase blocker, did not alter ET-1-stimulated vasoconstriction in SHR or WKY arteries. These data indicate that ET-1 stimulates physical coupling of IP3R1 to TRPC3 channels in mesenteric artery myocytes, leading to vasoconstriction. Furthermore, an elevation in IP3R1 to TRPC3 channel molecular coupling augments ET-1-induced vasoconstriction during hypertension. PMID:23045459

Concentration- and time-dependent genotoxicity profiles of isoprene monoepoxides and diepoxide, and the cross-linking potential of isoprene diepoxide in cells.

PubMed

Li, Yan; Pelah, Avishay; An, Jing; Yu, Ying-Xin; Zhang, Xin-Yu

2014-01-01

Isoprene, a possible carcinogen, is a petrochemical and a natural product being primarily produced by plants. It is biotransformed to 2-ethenyl-2-methyloxirane (IP-1,2-O) and 2-(1-methylethenyl)oxirane (IP-3,4-O), both of which can be further metabolized to 2-methyl-2,2'-bioxirane (MBO). MBO is mutagenic, but IP-1,2-O and IP-3,4-O are not. While IP-1,2-O has been reported being genotoxic, the genotoxicity of IP-3,4-O and MBO, and the cross-linking potential of MBO have not been examined. In the present study, we used the comet assay to investigate the concentration- and time-dependent genotoxicity profiles of the three metabolites and the cross-linking potential of MBO in human hepatocyte L02 cells. For the incubation time of 1 h, all metabolites showed positive concentration-dependent profiles with a potency rank order of IP-3,4-O > MBO > IP-1,2-O. In human hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2) and human leukemia (HL60) cells, IP-3,4-O was still more potent in inducing DNA breaks than MBO at high concentrations (>200 μM), although at low concentrations (≤200 μM) IP-3,4-O exhibited slightly lower or similar potency to MBO. Interestingly, their time-dependent genotoxicity profiles (0.5-4 h) in L02 cells were different from each other: IP-1,2-O and MBO (200 μM) exhibited negative and positive profiles, respectively, with IP-3,4-O lying in between, namely, IP-3,4-O-caused DNA breaks did not change over the exposure time. Further experiments demonstrated that hydrolysis of IP-1,2-O contributed to the negative profile and MBO induced cross-links at high concentrations and long incubation times. Collectively, the results suggested that IP-3,4-O might play a significant role in the toxicity of isoprene.

Antibody testing against canine coronavirus by immunoperoxidase plaque staining.

PubMed

Soma, T; Hara, M; Ishii, H; Yamamoto, S

2001-05-01

The application of the immunoperoxidase (IP) plaque staining procedure (IP test) to the diagnosis of canine coronavirus (CCV) infection was investigated. The IP test did not react with sera from either 15 specific pathogen-free (SPF) dogs or 7 SPF dogs immunized with a multivalent vaccine, including canine parvovirus type 2, canine distemper virus, canine adenovirus type 2, and canine parainfluenza virus. To compare the IP test with the neutralizing test (NT), sera from 240 healthy dogs and from 3 experimentally CCV-infected dogs were examined. All 60 sera positive for NT antibody were positive for IP antibody, and all 180 sera negative for NT antibody were negative for IP antibody in the healthy dogs. The IP titres showed similar changes with time after CCV inoculation to those of the NT titres in the experimentally infected dogs. These findings indicate that the IP test specifically detected anti-CCV antibodies. When the IP test and NT were compared in dogs with diarrhoeic signs. 2.1% of 48 sera and 20.3% of 74 sera, which were all negative for NT antibody, were positive for IP antibody in the dogs of under one year of age and at least one year of age, respectively. The difference between the IP and NT titres (log10 [reciprocal of IP titre] log10 [reciprocal of NT titre]) for the diarrhoeic dogs of under one year of age (2.350 +/- 0.931) was significantly larger than that for the healthy dogs (0.982 +/- 0.447) (p<0.0001), the NT titre being negative or very low, despite a high IP titre in many diarrhoeic dogs. Hence, the IP test is more able to detect anti-CCV antibodies, especially in dogs showing clinical signs. The IP-positivity rate was significantly higher in the diarrhoeic dogs of under one year of age (48.7%) than in the healthy dogs (25.0%) (chi2 = 19.844, p<0.0001), suggesting that CCV may contribute to diarrhoea in many juvenile dogs.

Chlorogenic and Caftaric Acids in Liver Toxicity and Oxidative Stress Induced by Methamphetamine

PubMed Central

Koriem, Khaled M. M.; Soliman, Rowan E.

2014-01-01

Methamphetamine intoxication can cause acute hepatic failure. Chlorogenic and caftaric acids are the major dietary polyphenols present in various foods. The aim of this study was to evaluate the protective role of chlorogenic and caftaric acids in liver toxicity and oxidative stress induced by methamphetamine in rats. Thirty-two male albino rats were divided into 4 equal groups. Group 1, which was control group, was injected (i.p) with saline (1 mL/kg) twice a day over seven-day period. Groups 2, 3, and 4 were injected (i.p) with methamphetamine (10 mg/kg) twice a day over seven-day period, where groups 3 and 4 were injected (i.p) with 60 mg/kg chlorogenic acid and 40 mg/kg caftaric acid, respectively, one day before methamphetamine injections. Methamphetamine increased serum aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, bilirubin, cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, and triglycerides. Also, malondialdehyde in serum, liver, and brain and plasma and liver nitric oxide levels were increased while methamphetamine induced a significant decrease in serum total protein, albumin, globulin, albumin/globulin ratio, brain serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine, blood and liver superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase levels. Chlorogenic and caftaric acids prior to methamphetamine injections restored all the above parameters to normal values. In conclusion, chlorogenic and caftaric acids before methamphetamine injections prevented liver toxicity and oxidative stress where chlorogenic acid was more effective. PMID:25136360

Short-term repeated HRV-16 exposure results in an attenuated immune response in vivo in humans

PubMed Central

Koch, Rebecca M.; Kox, Matthijs; van den Kieboom, Corné; Ferwerda, Gerben; Gerretsen, Jelle; ten Bruggencate, Sandra; van der Hoeven, Johannes G.; de Jonge, Marien I.; Pickkers, Peter

2018-01-01

Introduction Naturally, development of adaptive immunity following HRV infection affects the immune response. However, it is currently unclear whether or not HRV re-exposure within a short time frame leads to an altered innate immune response. The “experimental cold model” is used to investigate the pathogenesis of HRV infection and allows us to investigate the effects of repeated exposure on both local and systemic innate immunity. Methods 40 healthy male and female (1:1) subjects were nasally inoculated with HRV-16 or placebo. One week later, all subjects received HRV-16. Baseline seronegative subjects (n = 18) were included for further analysis. Results Infection rate was 82%. Primary HRV infection induced a marked increase in viral load and IP-10 levels in nasal wash, while a similar trend was observed for IL-6 and IL-10. Apart from an increase in IP-10 plasma levels, HRV infection did not induce systemic immune effects nor lower respiratory tract inflammation. With similar viral load present during the second HRV challenge, IP-10 and IL-6 in nasal wash showed no increase, but gradually declined, with a similar trend for IL-10. Conclusion Upon a second HRV challenge one week after the first, a less pronounced response for several innate immune parameters is observed. This could be the result of immunological tolerance and possibly increases vulnerability towards secondary infections. PMID:29447199

Short-term repeated HRV-16 exposure results in an attenuated immune response in vivo in humans.

PubMed

Koch, Rebecca M; Kox, Matthijs; van den Kieboom, Corné; Ferwerda, Gerben; Gerretsen, Jelle; Ten Bruggencate, Sandra; van der Hoeven, Johannes G; de Jonge, Marien I; Pickkers, Peter

2018-01-01

Naturally, development of adaptive immunity following HRV infection affects the immune response. However, it is currently unclear whether or not HRV re-exposure within a short time frame leads to an altered innate immune response. The "experimental cold model" is used to investigate the pathogenesis of HRV infection and allows us to investigate the effects of repeated exposure on both local and systemic innate immunity. 40 healthy male and female (1:1) subjects were nasally inoculated with HRV-16 or placebo. One week later, all subjects received HRV-16. Baseline seronegative subjects (n = 18) were included for further analysis. Infection rate was 82%. Primary HRV infection induced a marked increase in viral load and IP-10 levels in nasal wash, while a similar trend was observed for IL-6 and IL-10. Apart from an increase in IP-10 plasma levels, HRV infection did not induce systemic immune effects nor lower respiratory tract inflammation. With similar viral load present during the second HRV challenge, IP-10 and IL-6 in nasal wash showed no increase, but gradually declined, with a similar trend for IL-10. Upon a second HRV challenge one week after the first, a less pronounced response for several innate immune parameters is observed. This could be the result of immunological tolerance and possibly increases vulnerability towards secondary infections.

Discovering hotspots in functional genomic data superposed on 3D chromatin configuration reconstructions

PubMed Central

Capurso, Daniel; Bengtsson, Henrik; Segal, Mark R.

2016-01-01

The spatial organization of the genome influences cellular function, notably gene regulation. Recent studies have assessed the three-dimensional (3D) co-localization of functional annotations (e.g. centromeres, long terminal repeats) using 3D genome reconstructions from Hi-C (genome-wide chromosome conformation capture) data; however, corresponding assessments for continuous functional genomic data (e.g. chromatin immunoprecipitation-sequencing (ChIP-seq) peak height) are lacking. Here, we demonstrate that applying bump hunting via the patient rule induction method (PRIM) to ChIP-seq data superposed on a Saccharomyces cerevisiae 3D genome reconstruction can discover ‘functional 3D hotspots’, regions in 3-space for which the mean ChIP-seq peak height is significantly elevated. For the transcription factor Swi6, the top hotspot by P-value contains MSB2 and ERG11 – known Swi6 target genes on different chromosomes. We verify this finding in a number of ways. First, this top hotspot is relatively stable under PRIM across parameter settings. Second, this hotspot is among the top hotspots by mean outcome identified by an alternative algorithm, k-Nearest Neighbor (k-NN) regression. Third, the distance between MSB2 and ERG11 is smaller than expected (by resampling) in two other 3D reconstructions generated via different normalization and reconstruction algorithms. This analytic approach can discover functional 3D hotspots and potentially reveal novel regulatory interactions. PMID:26869583

Non-solenoidal Startup via Local Helicity Injection on Pegasus: Progress and Plans

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Reusch, J. A.; Barr, J. L.; Bodner, G. M.; Bongard, M. W.; Burke, M. G.; Fonck, R. J.; Hinson, E. T.; Lewicki, B. T.; Perry, J. M.; Schlossberg, D. J.

2015-11-01

Non-solenoidal plasma startup via local helicity injection (LHI) at the Pegasus toroidal experiment now provides routine operation at Ip ~ 0.17MA with Iinj ~ 5kA and Vinj ~ 1kV from four active arc injectors. Experiments in the past year have advanced the understanding of the governing physics of LHI and its supporting technology. Injector impedance scales as Vinj3/ 2 and is governed by two effects: a quasineutrality constraint on electron beam propagation, related to the tokamak edge density, and double-layer sheath expansion, related to narc. Injector design improvements permit operation at Vinj >= 1 kV without deleterious PMI or impurity generation. Discharges with varied shape, Ip(t), and helicity input test a predictive 0D power-balance model for LHI startup. Anomalous, reconnection-driven Ti >800 eV and strong MHD activity localized near the injectors are observed during LHI. Preliminary core Thomson scattering measurements indicate surprisingly high Te >300 eV, which if verified may indicate the dominance of high-energy electron fueling from the injector current streams. A new divertor injector system has been designed to substantially increase the available helicity input rate and support critical studies of confinement during LHI and reconnection activity at high Ip. A proposed upgrade to the Pegasus experiment will extend these studies to NSTX-U relevant parameters. Support: US DOE grants DE-FG02-96ER54375; and DE-SC0006928.

Advancing High Current Startup via Localized Helicity Injection in the PEGASUS Toroidal Experiment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hinson, E. T.; Barr, J. L.; Bongard, M. W.; Burke, M. G.; Fonck, R. J.; Perry, J. M.; Redd, A. J.; Schlossberg, D. J.

2013-10-01

Non-solenoidal startup via local helicity injection (LHI) and poloidal field induction is used to produce Ip = 0 . 17 MA tokamak discharges. Impurity contamination has been reduced to negligible levels by use of conical frustum cathode geometry and local scraper limiters. Attainable currents are governed by global limits of helicity and energy balance, and Taylor relaxation. A simple lumped parameter model based on these limits is used to project discharge evolution, and indicates that attaining 1 MA in NSTX-U will require LHI-driven effective loop voltages to dominate contributions from dLp / dt . This regime contrasts with results to date and will be tested at 0.3 MA in PEGASUS with a new integrated multi-injector array. Injector impedance characteristics are consistent with magnetically-limited regimes observed in higher-power foilless diodes. Bursts of MHD are measured on time scales of order ~ 100 μ s, and correlate with rapid equilibrium changes, discrete rises in Ip, redistribution of the toroidal current, ion heating (Ti ~ 1 keV), transient drops in injector voltage, and apparent n = 1 line-tied kink activity at the injector. NIMROD simulations of high-field-side HI discharges in PEGASUS are in qualitative agreement, suggesting Ip buildup results from inward propagating toroidal current loops created by intermittent reconnection of injected current streams. Work supported by US DOE Grant DE-FG02-96ER54375.

An Iterative Interplanetary Scintillation (IPS) Analysis Using Time-dependent 3-D MHD Models as Kernels

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jackson, B. V.; Yu, H. S.; Hick, P. P.; Buffington, A.; Odstrcil, D.; Kim, T. K.; Pogorelov, N. V.; Tokumaru, M.; Bisi, M. M.; Kim, J.; Yun, J.

2017-12-01

The University of California, San Diego has developed an iterative remote-sensing time-dependent three-dimensional (3-D) reconstruction technique which provides volumetric maps of density, velocity, and magnetic field. We have applied this technique in near real time for over 15 years with a kinematic model approximation to fit data from ground-based interplanetary scintillation (IPS) observations. Our modeling concept extends volumetric data from an inner boundary placed above the Alfvén surface out to the inner heliosphere. We now use this technique to drive 3-D MHD models at their inner boundary and generate output 3-D data files that are fit to remotely-sensed observations (in this case IPS observations), and iterated. These analyses are also iteratively fit to in-situ spacecraft measurements near Earth. To facilitate this process, we have developed a traceback from input 3-D MHD volumes to yield an updated boundary in density, temperature, and velocity, which also includes magnetic-field components. Here we will show examples of this analysis using the ENLIL 3D-MHD and the University of Alabama Multi-Scale Fluid-Kinetic Simulation Suite (MS-FLUKSS) heliospheric codes. These examples help refine poorly-known 3-D MHD variables (i.e., density, temperature), and parameters (gamma) by fitting heliospheric remotely-sensed data between the region near the solar surface and in-situ measurements near Earth.

Spectroscopic determination of the intermolecular potential energy surface for Ar-NH3

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schmuttenmaer, C. A.; Cohen, R. C.; Saykally, R. J.

1994-07-01

The three-dimensional intermolecular potential energy surface (IPS) for Ar-NH3 has been determined from a least-squares fit to 61 far infrared and microwave vibration-rotation-tunneling (VRT) measurements and to temperature-dependent second virial coefficients. The three intermolecular coordinates (R,θ,φ) are treated without invoking any approximations regarding their separability, and the NH3 inversion-tunneling motion is included adiabatically. A surface with 13 variable parameters has been optimized to accurately reproduce the spectroscopic observables, using the collocation method to treat the coupled multidimensional dynamics within a scattering formalism. Anisotropy in the IPS is found to significantly mix the free rotor basis functions. The 149.6 cm-1 global minimum on this surface occurs with the NH3 symmetry axis nearly perpendicular to the van der Waals bond axis (θ=96.6°), at a center-of-mass separation of 3.57 Å, and with the Ar atom midway between two of the NH3 hydrogen atoms (φ=60°). The position of the global minimum is very different from the center-of-mass distance extracted from microwave spectroscopic studies. Long-range (R≳3.8 Å) attractive interactions are greatest when either a N-H bond or the NH3 lone pair is directed toward the argon. Comparisons with ab initio surfaces for this molecule as well as the experimentally determined IPS for Ar-H2O are presented.

The synergistic effect of micro/nano-structured and Cu2+-doped hydroxyapatite particles to promote osteoblast viability and antibacterial activity.

PubMed

Shi, Feng; Liu, Yumei; Zhi, Wei; Xiao, Dongqin; Li, Hongyu; Duan, Ke; Qu, Shuxin; Weng, Jie

2017-06-06

Microstructure and chemical constitution are important factors affecting the biological activity of biomaterials. This study aimed to fabricate hydroxyapatite (HAp) particles with both micro/nanohybrid structure and Cu 2+ doping to promote osteogenic differentiation and antibacterial property. In the presence of inositol hexakisphosphate (IP6), micro/nano-structured and Cu 2+ -doped HAp (HAp-IP6-Cu) microspheres were successfully fabricated via hydrothermal method. Morphological observation showed that HAp-IP6-Cu microspheres with a diameter of 3.1-4.1 μm were chrysanthemum-like and composed of nano-flakes approximately 50 nm in thickness. Compared with the HAp micro-rods or IP6 modified HAp (HAp-IP6) microspheres, HAp-IP6-Cu microspheres had a larger specific surface area, better hydrophilicity and stronger ability to adsorb bovine serum albumin. To evaluate the synergistic effects of micro/nanohybrid structure and Cu 2+ on cell behavior, rat calvarial osteoblasts (RCOs) were cultured on HAp-IP6-Cu, HAp-IP6 and HAp layers as well as their extracts, respectively. Results demonstrated that HAp-IP6-Cu layer promoted the adhesion, proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of RCOs. The cells grew on HAp-IP6-Cu and HAp-IP6 layers exhibited greater spreading than those on HAp layer. In addition, quantitative test by the agar disk diffusion technique found that HAp-IP6-Cu microspheres were effectively against S taphylococcus aureus and E scherichia coli. These results demonstrated that HAp-IP6-Cu microspheres may be a potential candidate as a bioactive and anti-infective biomaterial for bone regeneration.

Network Analysis with SiLK

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-01-06

Carnegie Mellon University rwcut Default Display By default • sIP , sPort • dIP, dPort • protocol • packets, bytes • flags • sTime, eTime, duration...TCP/IP SOCKET IP address: 10.0.0.1 L4 protocol : TCP High-numbered ephemeral port # TCP/IP SOCKET IP address: 203.0.113.1 L4 protocol : TCP Low-numbered...Fields found to be useful in analysis: • source address, destination address • source port, destination port (Internet Control Message Protocol

Research and Simulation on Application of the Mobile IP Network

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yibing, Deng; Wei, Hu; Minghui, Li; Feng, Gao; Junyi, Shen

The paper analysed the mobile node, home agent, and foreign agent of mobile IP network firstly, some key technique, such as mobile IP network basical principle, protocol work principle, agent discovery, registration, and IP packet transmission, were discussed. Then a network simulation model was designed, validating the characteristic of mobile IP network, and some advantages, which were brought by mobile network, were testified. Finally, the conclusion is gained: mobile IP network could realize the expectation of consumer that they can communicate with others anywhere.

Genome-wide ChIP-seq mapping and analysis of butyrate-induced H3K9 and H3K27 acetylation and epigenomic landscapes alteration in bovine cells

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Volatile short-chain fatty acids (VFAs, acetate, propionate, and butyrate) are nutrients especially critical to ruminants. Beyond their nutritional impact, clear evidence is beginning to link modifications in chromatin structure induced by butyrate to cell cycle progression, DNA replication and over...

A genome-wide interactome of DNA-associated proteins in the human liver.

PubMed

Ramaker, Ryne C; Savic, Daniel; Hardigan, Andrew A; Newberry, Kimberly; Cooper, Gregory M; Myers, Richard M; Cooper, Sara J

2017-11-01

Large-scale efforts like the ENCODE Project have made tremendous progress in cataloging the genomic binding patterns of DNA-associated proteins (DAPs), such as transcription factors (TFs). However, most chromatin immunoprecipitation-sequencing (ChIP-seq) analyses have focused on a few immortalized cell lines whose activities and physiology differ in important ways from endogenous cells and tissues. Consequently, binding data from primary human tissue are essential to improving our understanding of in vivo gene regulation. Here, we identify and analyze more than 440,000 binding sites using ChIP-seq data for 20 DAPs in two human liver tissue samples. We integrated binding data with transcriptome and phased WGS data to investigate allelic DAP interactions and the impact of heterozygous sequence variation on the expression of neighboring genes. Our tissue-based data set exhibits binding patterns more consistent with liver biology than cell lines, and we describe uses of these data to better prioritize impactful noncoding variation. Collectively, our rich data set offers novel insights into genome function in human liver tissue and provides a valuable resource for assessing disease-related disruptions. © 2017 Ramaker et al.; Published by Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Press.

Studies on impact of electron cyclotron wave injection on the internal transport barriers in JT-60U weak shear plasmas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ide, S.; Takenaga, H.; Isayama, A.; Sakamoto, Y.; Yoshida, M.; Gormezano, C.

2007-11-01

Impact of the electron cyclotron range of frequency wave (ECRF) on the internal transport barriers (ITBs) in a weak shear (WS) plasma has been investigated in JT-60U. The fundamental O-mode ECRF of 110 GHz injected obliquely (co-current drive) from the low field side is used. It is observed that the ion temperature (Ti) ITB in a WS plasma can be degraded by ECRF. It is clarified for the first time that the degradation depends increasingly on the EC power (PEC) but decreasingly on the plasma current (Ip). Moreover it is confirmed that ECRF affects the toroidal rotation (Vt) indirectly and results in the flattening of Vt(ρ) and therefore the radial electric field (Er) profiles regardless of the direction of the target Vt(ρ), peaking co or counter direction (relative to the Ip direction). Furthermore, it is recently found that Ti and Vt in the whole ITB region are affected with almost no delay from the EC onset even with off-axis EC deposition. These results indicate that EC injection unveiled a semi-global structure that characterizes Ti ITB in a WS plasma.

GnT1IP-L specifically inhibits MGAT1 in the Golgi via its luminal domain.

PubMed

Huang, Hung-Hsiang; Hassinen, Antti; Sundaram, Subha; Spiess, Andrej-Nikolai; Kellokumpu, Sakari; Stanley, Pamela

2015-09-15

Mouse GnT1IP-L, and membrane-bound GnT1IP-S (MGAT4D) expressed in cultured cells inhibit MGAT1, the N-acetylglucosaminyltransferase that initiates the synthesis of hybrid and complex N-glycans. However, it is not known where in the secretory pathway GnT1IP-L inhibits MGAT1, nor whether GnT1IP-L inhibits other N-glycan branching N-acetylglucosaminyltransferases of the medial Golgi. We show here that the luminal domain of GnT1IP-L contains its inhibitory activity. Retention of GnT1IP-L in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) via the N-terminal region of human invariant chain p33, with or without C-terminal KDEL, markedly reduced inhibitory activity. Dynamic fluorescent resonance energy transfer (FRET) and bimolecular fluorescence complementation (BiFC) assays revealed homomeric interactions for GnT1IP-L in the ER, and heteromeric interactions with MGAT1 in the Golgi. GnT1IP-L did not generate a FRET signal with MGAT2, MGAT3, MGAT4B or MGAT5 medial Golgi GlcNAc-tranferases. GnT1IP/Mgat4d transcripts are expressed predominantly in spermatocytes and spermatids in mouse, and are reduced in men with impaired spermatogenesis.

Research of future network with multi-layer IP address

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Guoling; Long, Zhaohua; Wei, Ziqiang

2018-04-01

The shortage of IP addresses and the scalability of routing systems [1] are challenges for the Internet. The idea of dividing existing IP addresses between identities and locations is one of the important research directions. This paper proposed a new decimal network architecture based on IPv9 [11], and decimal network IP address from E.164 principle of traditional telecommunication network, the IP address level, which helps to achieve separation and identification and location of IP address, IP address form a multilayer network structure, routing scalability problem in remission at the same time, to solve the problem of IPv4 address depletion. On the basis of IPv9, a new decimal network architecture is proposed, and the IP address of the decimal network draws on the E.164 principle of the traditional telecommunication network, and the IP addresses are hierarchically divided, which helps to realize the identification and location separation of IP addresses, the formation of multi-layer IP address network structure, while easing the scalability of the routing system to find a way out of IPv4 address exhausted. In addition to modifying DNS [10] simply and adding the function of digital domain, a DDNS [12] is formed. At the same time, a gateway device is added, that is, IPV9 gateway. The original backbone network and user network are unchanged.

Role of Caspase-3 Cleaved IP3R1 on Ca2+ Homeostasis and Developmental Competence of Mouse Oocytes and Eggs

PubMed Central

Zhang, Nan; Fissore, Rafael. A.

2014-01-01

Apoptosis in most cell types is accompanied by altered Ca2+ homeostasis. During apoptosis, caspase-3 mediated cleavage of the type 1 inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor (IP3R1) generates a 95-kDa C-terminal fragment (C-IP3R1), which represents the channel domain of the receptor. Aged mouse eggs display abnormal Ca2+ homeostasis and express C-IP3R1, although whether or not C-IP3R1 expression contributes to Ca2+ misregulation or a decrease in developmental competency is unknown. We sought to answer these questions by injecting in mouse oocytes and eggs cRNAs encoding CIP3R1. We found that: 1) expression of C-IP3R1 in eggs lowered the Ca2+ content of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), although, as C-IP3R1 is quickly degraded at this stage, its expression did not impair pre-implantation embryo development; 2) expression of CIP3R1 in eggs enhanced fragmentation associated with aging; 3) endogenous IP3R1 is required for aging associated apoptosis, as its down-regulation prevented fragmentation, and expression of C-IP3R1 in eggs with downregulated IP3R1 partly restored fragmentation; 4) C-IP3R1 expression in GV oocytes resulted in persistent levels of protein, which abolished the increase in the ER releasable Ca2+ pool that occurs during maturation, undermined the Ca2+ oscillatory ability of matured eggs and their activation potential. Collectively, this study supports a role for IP3R1 and C-IP3R1 in regulating Ca2+ homeostasis and the ER Ca2+ content during oocyte maturation. Nevertheless, the role of C-IP3R1 on Ca2+ homeostasis in aged eggs seems minor, as in MII eggs the majority of endogenous IP3R1 remains intact and C-IP3R1 undergoes rapid turnover. PMID:24692207

Effects of the NOP receptor agonist Ro65-6570 on the acquisition of opiate- and psychostimulant-induced conditioned place preference in rats.

PubMed

Rutten, Kris; De Vry, Jean; Bruckmann, Walter; Tzschentke, Thomas M

2010-10-25

Activation of the Nociceptin/Orphanin FQ (NOP) receptor may have anti-abuse effects. The present study examined the consequence of NOP receptor activation on the rewarding effect of opiates and psychostimulants in the conditioned place preference task in rats. First, the motivational effect of the NOP receptor agonists Ro64-6198 (0.316-3.16 mg/kg i.p.) and Ro65-6570 (1-10mg/kg i.p.) when administered alone, was assessed. Ro65-6570 was selected for further drug combination studies since, unlike Ro64-6198, it was devoid of an intrinsic motivational effect. Next, the minimal effective dose to induce reward for the opiates heroin (0.1-3.16 mg/kg i.p.), morphine (1-10mg/kg i.p.), hydrocodone (0.316-10mg/kg i.p.), tilidine (1-31.6 mg/kg i.p.), hydromorphone (0.1-10mg/kg i.p.), and oxycodone (0.0316-10mg/kg i.p.), as well as for the psychostimulants cocaine (3.16-31.6 mg/kg i.p.) and dexamphetamine (0.316-3.16 mg/kg i.p.) in combination with Ro 65-6570 (0 or 3.16 mg/kg i.p.) was determined. All drugs produced conditioned place preference, and for opiates and cocaine, but not for dexamphetamine, the minimal effective dose was higher when combined with Ro65-6570 (3.16 mg/kg i.p.). Attenuation of the rewarding effect of tilidine (3.16 mg/kg i.p.) and oxycodone (1mg/kg i.p.) by Ro65-6570 (3.16 mg/kg i.p.) could be reversed by pre-treatment with the NOP receptor antagonist J-113397 (4.64 mg/kg i.p.), suggesting that the attenuating effect of Ro65-6570 on opiates is due to activation of the NOP receptor. Taken together, the present study suggests that activation of NOP receptors effectively attenuates the rewarding effect of opiates, but may be less effective in reducing psychostimulant-induced reward. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Light as a central modulator of circadian rhythms, sleep and affect

PubMed Central

LeGates, T.A.; Fernandez, D.C.; Hattar, S

2014-01-01

Light has profoundly influenced the evolution of life on earth. As widely appreciated, light allows us to generate images of our environment. However, light, through the atypical intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs; Box 1), also influences behaviors that are essential for our health and quality of life, yet are independent of image formation. These include the synchronization of the circadian clock to the solar day, tracking of seasonal changes, and regulation of sleep. Irregular light environments lead to problems in circadian rhythms and sleep, which eventually cause mood and learning deficits. Recently, it was found that irregular light can also directly impact mood and learning without producing major disruptions in circadian rhythms and sleep. Here, we will discuss the indirect and direct influence of light on mood and learning and provide a model for how light, the circadian clock, and sleep interact to influence mood and cognitive functions. Box 1Intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs)Retinal photoreceptors transduce light energy into electrical signals that initiate vision. The classical photoreceptors, rods and cones, possess modified cilia that consist of stacks of membranes in which photopigments (rhodopsin and cone opsins) are concentrated. Rods are exquisitely sensitive and are able to detect even a few photons. Rods are therefore used for night vision. Cones are less sensitive than rods and are used for day and color vision. Color vision is mediated by cone photoreceptors that express cone-opsins with sensitivity peaks at different wavelengths (colors) of light. Humans have three cone types: short, mid and long wavelength sensitive cones (for simplicity, we will refer to these as blue, green and red cones, respectively). Rods and cones relay photic information through multisynaptic pathways to retinal ganglion cells (RGCs), which innervate different areas in the brain for complex visual processing13.A surprising discovery showed that a subpopulation of RGCs is intrinsically photosensitive and express the photopigment melanopsin. These cells were thus termed ipRGCs17–19. The melanopsin gene (Opn4) was originally cloned from Xenopus laevis dermal melanophores, and was shown to have orthologs in many mammalian species, including humans141. Sequence analysis shows that melanopsin shares more homology with invertebrate opsins than with vertebrate opsins, suggesting that melanopsin may use a different mechanism for light signaling than that used by the photopigments present in the rods and cones of vertebrates142. ipRGCs do not have modified membranes in which the photopigment can be concentrated: thus, melanopsin protein is expressed uniformly throughout the soma, dendrites, and the initial segment of the axon143. The lack of membrane specialization makes ipRGCs less sensitive to light than rods and cones. However, ipRGCs are able to incorporate light signals over extended period of time, resulting in an increase in their sensitivity during prolonged light stimulation. ipRGCs are most sensitive to wavelengths of light that are in the blue region of the light spectrum144, 145. As ganglion cells, ipRGCs also convey light information from rods and cones in addition to their intrinsic melanopsin-dependent pathway and can control a variety of light-mediated behaviors30.Originally, ipRGCs were thought to comprise a uniform population, however, recent discoveries revealed that ipRGCs are highly diverse, comprising at least five distinct subtypes (M1-M5) in rodents based on morphological and electrophysiological analyses22–29. The originally identified population is now known as M1 ipRGCs and project predominantly to brain regions involved in non-image forming visual functions, whereas the non-M1 ipRGCs show widespread projections to areas in the brain important for image formation. ipRGC subtypes express varying levels of the melanopsin protein and have different patterns of dendrite stratification in the inner plexiform layer (IPL)27, 28, 146, 147, indicating that each subtype could play a particular role in detecting light intrinsically and in signaling rod and cone information to the brain. PMID:24917305

A comparison of the microstructure and properties of the IPS Empress 2 and the IPS Empress glass-ceramics.

PubMed

Höland, W; Schweiger, M; Frank, M; Rheinberger, V

2000-01-01

The aim of this report is to analyze the microstructures of glass-ceramics of the IPS Empress 2 and IPS Empress systems by scanning electron microscopy. The main properties of the glass-ceramics were determined and compared to each other. The flexural strength of the pressed glass-ceramic (core material) was improved by a factor of more than three for IPS Empress 2 (lithium disilicate glass-ceramic) in comparison with IPS Empress (leucite glass-ceramic). For the fracture toughness, the K(IC) value was measured as 3.3 +/- 0.3 MPa. m(0.5) for IPS Empress 2 and 1.3 +/- 0.1 MPa. m(0.5) for IPS Empress. Abrasion behavior, chemical durability, and optical properties such as translucency of all glass-ceramics fulfill the dental standards. The authors concluded that IPS Empress 2 can be used to fabricate 3-unit bridges up to the second premolar. Copyright 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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

Garg, L.C.; McArdle, S.; Crews, F.T.

The release of inositol phosphates (IP) from phosphoinositides (PI) by carbachol was studied in the tissue slices from cortex (C), outer medulla (OM) and inner medulla (IM) of rabbit kidneys. The method involved the incubation of the slices with (/sup 3/H)inositol for its incorporation into the PI and measurement of the release of IP in presence of lithium which prevents dephosphorylation of IP. The results of (/sup 3/H)IP formation are expressed as % of total (/sup 3/H)inositol incorporation in the tissue. No significant effect of carbachol was found on the release of IP in the C. The drug produced amore » 48% increase in IP release in the OM. In the IM, carbachol produced a concentration dependent increase in IP release with a maximum of 772% at 1 mM. The release of IP in the IM by 1 mM carbachol was completely blocked by 1 ..mu..M atropine. Our results indicate that IP release by carbachol is due to activation of muscarinic receptors in the IM of the rabbit kidney.« less

On the implementation of IP protection using biometrics based information hiding and firewall

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Basu, Abhishek; Nandy, Kingshuk; Banerjee, Avishek; Giri, Supratick; Sarkar, Souvik; Sarkar, Subir Kumar

2016-02-01

System-on-chip-based design style creates a revolution in very large scale integration industry with design efficiency, operating speed and development time. To support this process, reuse and exchange of components are essential in electronic form called intellectual property (IP). This, however, increases the possibility of encroachment of IP of the design. So copyright protection of IP against piracy is the most important concern for IP vendors. The existing solutions for IP protection are still not secure enough with flexibility, cost, etc. This paper proposes an information-hiding-based solution for IP protection by embedding a biometric copyright information and firewall inside an IP in the form of a finite state machine with unique configuration. The scheme first introduces biometric signature-based copyright as ownership proof. Second, firewall interrupts the normal functionality of IP at the end of the user time period. The experimental outcomes of field-programmable-gate-array implementation illustrate the efficiency of the proposed method.

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

Huang, H.M.

An increase in acidic phospholipids in brain plasma and synaptic plasma membranes upon chronic ethanol administration was observed. Chronic ethanol administration resulted in an increase in {sup 32}P{sub i} incorporation into the acidic phospholipids in synaptosomes. Postdecapitative ischemic treatment resulted rapid degradation of poly-PI in rat brain. However, there was a rapid appearance of IP{sub 2} in ethanol group which indicated a more rapid turnover of IP{sub 3} in the ethanol-treated rats. Carbachol stimulated accumulation of labeled inositol phosphates in brain slices and synaptosomes. Carbachol-stimulated release of IP and IP{sub 2} was calcium dependent and was inhibited by EGTA andmore » atropine. Adenosine triphosphates and 1 mM further enhanced carbachol-induced formation of IP and IP{sub 2}, but showed an increase and a decrease in IP{sub 3} at 1 mM and 0.01 mM, respectively. Guanosine triphosphate at 0.1 mM did not change in labeled IP, but there was a significant increase in labeled IP{sub 2} and decrease in IP{sub 3}. Mn and CMP greatly enhanced incorporation of ({sup 3}H)-inositol into PI, but not into poly-PI labeling in brain synaptosomes. Incubation of brain synaptosomes resulted in a Ca{sup 2+}, time-dependent release of labeled IP. However, the pool of PI labeled through this pathway is not susceptible to carbachol stimulation. When saponin permeabilized synaptosomal preparations were incubated with ({sup 3}H)-inositol-PI or ({sup 14}C)-arachidonoyl-PI, ATP enhanced the formation of labeled IP and DG.« less

Anti-inflammatory effects of theophylline, cromolyn and salbutamol in a murine model of pleurisy.

PubMed Central

Saleh, T. S.; Calixto, J. B.; Medeiros, Y. S.

1996-01-01

1. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of theophylline, cromolyn and salbutamol, three well-known anti-asthmatic drugs, on the early (4 h) and late (48 h) phases of cell migration and fluid leakage induced by carrageenin in the pleural cavity of mice. 2. In the first set of experiments, animals were pretreated (30 min) with different doses of theophylline (0.5-50 mg kg-1, i.p.), cromolyn (0.02-0.2 mg per pleural cavity) or salbutamol (0.05-50 mg kg-1, i.p.); the total and differential cell content, and also the exudate were analysed 4 h after carrageenin (1%) administration. Afterwards, in order to evaluate the time course effects of these drugs on both phases of the inflammatory reaction, one dose employed in the above protocol was chosen, to pretreat (0.5-24 h) different groups of animals. The studied parameters were evaluated 4 and 48 h after pleurisy induction. 3. Acute administration of theophylline (1-50 mg kg-1, i.p.) cromolyn (0.02-0.2 mg per pleural cavity) and salbutamol (0.5-50 mg kg-1, i.p.), 30 min prior to carrageenin, caused significant inhibition of total cell and fluid leakage in the pleural cavity at 4 h (P < 0.01). All drugs exerted a long-lasting inhibitory effect on both exudation and cell migration (P < 0.01) when administered 0.5-8 h before pleurisy induction. However, the temporal profile of the inhibitory effect induced by these drugs on the first phase of the inflammatory reaction was clearly different. Thus, the inhibitory effect induced by theophylline and cromolyn on exudation was significantly longer (up to 24 h) in comparison to their effects on cell migration (only up to 8 h). In contrast, although salbutamol when administered 30 min before pleurisy induction abolished fluid leakage (P < 0.01), this effect was not sustained in the groups pretreated for 4-8 h. In these latter groups, a significant but much smaller reduction of exudation was observed (P < 0.01), whereas the magnitude of cell migration inhibition did not vary. 4. The second phase (48 h) of the inflammatory reaction induced by carrageenin (1%) was significantly inhibited by cromolyn (0.02 mg per pleural cavity) when this drug was administered 0.5-24 h before pleurisy induction (P < 0.01). Similar results were observed when theophylline (50 mg kg-1, i.p.) was administered 0.5-4 h before the injection of the phlogistic agent (P < 0.01). Treatment of the animals with salbutamol (5 mg kg-1, i.p.), 0.5-24 h before pleurisy induction, did not inhibit either cell migration or fluid leakage. In this condition, a significant increase of these parameters was observed in the group pretreated with salbutamol 8-24 h before pleurisy induction (P < 0.01). 5. These results indicate that theophylline and cromolyn were able to inhibit the early (4 h) and late (48 h) phases of the inflammatory reaction induced by carrageenin in a murine model of pleurisy. Salbutamol was effective only against the early phase. The inhibitory effects of theophylline, cromolyn and salbutamol on the early phase of this inflammatory reaction were long-lasting, although a distinct profile of inhibition was observed among them. These findings confirm and extend previous results described in other models of asthma and support both clinical and experimental evidence suggesting that these anti-asthmatic agents exhibit marked anti-inflammatory properties. PMID:8762112

47 CFR 52.34 - Obligations regarding local number porting to and from interconnected VoIP or Internet-based TRS...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... and from interconnected VoIP or Internet-based TRS providers. 52.34 Section 52.34 Telecommunication... Portability § 52.34 Obligations regarding local number porting to and from interconnected VoIP or Internet-based TRS providers. (a) An interconnected VoIP or VRS or IP Relay provider must facilitate an end-user...

47 CFR 52.34 - Obligations regarding local number porting to and from interconnected VoIP or Internet-based TRS...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... and from interconnected VoIP or Internet-based TRS providers. 52.34 Section 52.34 Telecommunication... Portability § 52.34 Obligations regarding local number porting to and from interconnected VoIP or Internet-based TRS providers. (a) An interconnected VoIP or VRS or IP Relay provider must facilitate an end-user...

VR closure rates for two vocational models.

PubMed

Fraser, Virginia V; Jones, Amanda M; Frounfelker, Rochelle; Harding, Brian; Hardin, Teresa; Bond, Gary R

2008-01-01

The Individual Placement and Support (IPS) model of supported employment is an evidence-based practice for individuals with psychiatric disabilities. To be financially viable, IPS programs require funding from the state-federal vocational rehabilitation (VR) system. However, some observers have questioned the compatibility of IPS and the VR system. Using a randomized controlled trial comparing IPS to a well-established vocational program called the Diversified Placement Approach (DPA), we examined rates of VR sponsorship and successful VR closures. We also describe the establishment of an active collaboration between a psychiatric rehabilitation agency and the state VR system to facilitate rapid VR sponsorship for IPS clients. Both IPS and DPA achieved a 44% rate of VR Status 26 closure when considering all clients entering the study. IPS and DPA averaged similar amount of time to achieve VR sponsorship. Time from vocational program entry to Status 26 was 51 days longer on average for IPS. Even though several IPS principles seem to run counter to VR practices, such as zero exclusion and rapid job search, we found IPS closure rates comparable to those for DPA, a vocational model that screens for readiness, provides prevocational preparation, and extensively uses agency-run businesses.

Ambulatory versus inpatient management of severe nausea and vomiting of pregnancy: a randomised control trial with patient preference arm

PubMed Central

Mitchell-Jones, Nicola; Farren, Jessica Alice; Tobias, Aurelio; Bourne, Tom; Bottomley, Cecilia

2017-01-01

Objective To determine whether ambulatory (outpatient (OP)) treatment of severe nausea and vomiting of pregnancy (NVP) is as effective as inpatient (IP) care. Design Non-blinded randomised control trial (RCT) with patient preference arm. Setting Two multicentre teaching hospitals in London. Participants Women less than 20 weeks’ pregnant with severe NVP and associated ketonuria (>1+). Methods Women who agreed to the RCT were randomised via web-based application to either ambulatory or IP treatment. Women who declined randomisation underwent the treatment of their choice in the patient preference trial (PPT) arm. Treatment protocols, data collection and follow-up were the same for all participants. Main outcome measures Primary outcome was reduction in Pregnancy Unique Quantification of Emesis (PUQE) score 48 hours after starting treatment. Secondary outcome measures were duration of treatment, improvement in symptom scores and ketonuria at 48 hours, reattendances within 7 days of discharge and comparison of symptoms at 7 days postdischarge. Results 152/174 eligible women agreed to participate with 77/152 (51%) recruited to the RCT and 75/152 (49%) to the PPT. Patients were initially compared in four groups (randomised IP, randomised OP, non-randomised IP and non-randomised OP). Comprehensive cohort analysis of participants in the randomised group (RCT) and non-randomised group (PPT) did not demonstrate any differences in patient demographics or baseline clinical characteristics. Pooled analysis of IP versus OP groups showed no difference in reduction in PUQE score at 48 hours (p=0.86). There was no difference in change in eating score (p=0.69), drinking score (p=0.77), well-being rating (p=0.64) or reduction in ketonuria (p=0.47) at 48 hours, with no difference in duration of index treatment episode (p=0.83) or reattendances within 7 days (p=0.52). Conclusions Ambulatory management is an effective direct alternative to IP management of severe NVP. The trial also demonstrated that many women requiring treatment for severe NVP have strong preferences regarding treatment setting, which may need to be considered by care providers, especially given the psychological impact of severe NVP. Trial registration number http://www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN24659467 (March 2014). PMID:29222135

Representation of Semantic Similarity in the Left Intraparietal Sulcus: Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging Evidence

PubMed Central

Neyens, Veerle; Bruffaerts, Rose; Liuzzi, Antonietta G.; Kalfas, Ioannis; Peeters, Ronald; Keuleers, Emmanuel; Vogels, Rufin; De Deyne, Simon; Storms, Gert; Dupont, Patrick; Vandenberghe, Rik

2017-01-01

According to a recent study, semantic similarity between concrete entities correlates with the similarity of activity patterns in left middle IPS during category naming. We examined the replicability of this effect under passive viewing conditions, the potential role of visuoperceptual similarity, where the effect is situated compared to regions that have been previously implicated in visuospatial attention, and how it compares to effects of object identity and location. Forty-six subjects participated. Subjects passively viewed pictures from two categories, musical instruments and vehicles. Semantic similarity between entities was estimated based on a concept-feature matrix obtained in more than 1,000 subjects. Visuoperceptual similarity was modeled based on the HMAX model, the AlexNet deep convolutional learning model, and thirdly, based on subjective visuoperceptual similarity ratings. Among the IPS regions examined, only left middle IPS showed a semantic similarity effect. The effect was significant in hIP1, hIP2, and hIP3. Visuoperceptual similarity did not correlate with similarity of activity patterns in left middle IPS. The semantic similarity effect in left middle IPS was significantly stronger than in the right middle IPS and also stronger than in the left or right posterior IPS. The semantic similarity effect was similar to that seen in the angular gyrus. Object identity effects were much more widespread across nearly all parietal areas examined. Location effects were relatively specific for posterior IPS and area 7 bilaterally. To conclude, the current findings replicate the semantic similarity effect in left middle IPS under passive viewing conditions, and demonstrate its anatomical specificity within a cytoarchitectonic reference frame. We propose that the semantic similarity effect in left middle IPS reflects the transient uploading of semantic representations in working memory. PMID:28824405

The crystal structure of mammalian inositol 1,3,4,5,6-pentakisphosphate 2-kinase reveals a new zinc-binding site and key features for protein function

PubMed Central

Franco-Echevarría, Elsa; Sanz-Aparicio, Julia; Brearley, Charles A.; González-Rubio, Juana M.; González, Beatriz

2017-01-01

Inositol 1,3,4,5,6-pentakisphosphate 2-kinases (IP5 2-Ks) are part of a family of enzymes in charge of synthesizing inositol hexakisphosphate (IP6) in eukaryotic cells. This protein and its product IP6 present many roles in cells, participating in mRNA export, embryonic development, and apoptosis. We reported previously that the full-length IP5 2-K from Arabidopsis thaliana is a zinc metallo-enzyme, including two separated lobes (the N- and C-lobes). We have also shown conformational changes in IP5 2-K and have identified the residues involved in substrate recognition and catalysis. However, the specific features of mammalian IP5 2-Ks remain unknown. To this end, we report here the first structure for a murine IP5 2-K in complex with ATP/IP5 or IP6. Our structural findings indicated that the general folding in N- and C-lobes is conserved with A. thaliana IP5 2-K. A helical scaffold in the C-lobe constitutes the inositol phosphate-binding site, which, along with the participation of the N-lobe, endows high specificity to this protein. However, we also noted large structural differences between the orthologues from these two eukaryotic kingdoms. These differences include a novel zinc-binding site and regions unique to the mammalian IP5 2-K, as an unexpected basic patch on the protein surface. In conclusion, our findings have uncovered distinct features of a mammalian IP5 2-K and set the stage for investigations into protein-protein or protein-RNA interactions important for IP5 2-K function and activity. PMID:28450399

KChIPs and Kv4 alpha subunits as integral components of A-type potassium channels in mammalian brain.

PubMed

Rhodes, Kenneth J; Carroll, Karen I; Sung, M Amy; Doliveira, Lisa C; Monaghan, Michael M; Burke, Sharon L; Strassle, Brian W; Buchwalder, Lynn; Menegola, Milena; Cao, Jie; An, W Frank; Trimmer, James S

2004-09-08

Voltage-gated potassium (Kv) channels from the Kv4, or Shal-related, gene family underlie a major component of the A-type potassium current in mammalian central neurons. We recently identified a family of calcium-binding proteins, termed KChIPs (Kv channel interacting proteins), that bind to the cytoplasmic N termini of Kv4 family alpha subunits and modulate their surface density, inactivation kinetics, and rate of recovery from inactivation (An et al., 2000). Here, we used single and double-label immunohistochemistry, together with circumscribed lesions and coimmunoprecipitation analyses, to examine the regional and subcellular distribution of KChIPs1-4 and Kv4 family alpha subunits in adult rat brain. Immunohistochemical staining using KChIP-specific monoclonal antibodies revealed that the KChIP polypeptides are concentrated in neuronal somata and dendrites where their cellular and subcellular distribution overlaps, in an isoform-specific manner, with that of Kv4.2 and Kv4.3. For example, immunoreactivity for KChIP1 and Kv4.3 is concentrated in the somata and dendrites of hippocampal, striatal, and neocortical interneurons. Immunoreactivity for KChIP2, KChIP4, and Kv4.2 is concentrated in the apical and basal dendrites of hippocampal and neocortical pyramidal cells. Double-label immunofluorescence labeling revealed that throughout the forebrain, KChIP2 and KChIP4 are frequently colocalized with Kv4.2, whereas in cortical, hippocampal, and striatal interneurons, KChIP1 is frequently colocalized with Kv4.3. Coimmunoprecipitation analyses confirmed that all KChIPs coassociate with Kv4 alpha subunits in brain membranes, indicating that KChIPs 1-4 are integral components of native A-type Kv channel complexes and are likely to play a major role as modulators of somatodendritic excitability.

Experimental study on Response Parameters of Ni-rich NiTi Shape Memory Alloy during Wire Electric Discharge Machining

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bisaria, Himanshu; Shandilya, Pragya

2018-03-01

Nowadays NiTi SMAs are gaining more prominence due to their unique properties such as superelasticity, shape memory effect, high fatigue strength and many other enriched physical and mechanical properties. The current studies explore the effect of machining parameters namely, peak current (Ip), pulse off time (TOFF), and pulse on time (TON) on wire wear ratio (WWR), and dimensional deviation (DD) in WEDM. It was found that high discharge energy was mainly ascribed to high WWR and DD. The WWR and DD increased with the increase in pulse on time and peak current whereas high pulse off time was favourable for low WWR and DD.

Challenges Regarding IP Core Functional Reliability

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Berg, Melanie D.; LaBel, Kenneth A.

2017-01-01

For many years, intellectual property (IP) cores have been incorporated into field programmable gate array (FPGA) and application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) design flows. However, the usage of large complex IP cores were limited within products that required a high level of reliability. This is no longer the case. IP core insertion has become mainstream including their use in highly reliable products. Due to limited visibility and control, challenges exist when using IP cores and subsequently compromise product reliability. We discuss challenges and suggest potential solutions to critical application IP insertion.

Management of ATM-based networks supporting multimedia medical information systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Whitman, Robert A.; Blaine, G. James; Fritz, Kevin; Goodgold, Ken; Heisinger, Patrick

1997-05-01

Medical information systems are acquiring the ability to collect and deliver many different types of medical information. In support of the increased network demands necessitated by these expanded capabilities, asynchronous transfer mode (ATM) based networks are being deployed in medical care systems. While ATM supplies a much greater line rate than currently deployed networks, the management and standards surrounding ATM are yet to mature. This paper explores the management and control issues surrounding an ATM network supporting medical information systems, and examines how management impacts network performance and robustness. A multivendor ATM network at the BJC Health System/Washington University and the applications using the network are discussed. Performance information for specific applications is presented and analyzed. Network management's influence on application reliability is outlined. The information collected is used to show how ATM network standards and management tools influence network reliability and performance. Performance of current applications using the ATM network is discussed. Special attention is given to issues encountered in implementation of hypertext transfer protocol over ATM internet protocol (IP) communications. A classical IP ATM implementation yields greater than twenty percent higher network performance over LANE. Maximum performance for a host's suite of applications can be obtained by establishing multiple individually engineered IP links through its ATM network connection.

Metabolomic profiling and sensorial quality of 'Golden Delicious', 'Liberty', 'Santana', and 'Topaz' apples grown using organic and integrated production systems.

PubMed

Vanzo, Andreja; Jenko, Mojca; Vrhovsek, Urska; Stopar, Matej

2013-07-03

Apple quality was investigated in the scab-resistant 'Liberty', 'Santana', and 'Topaz' cultivars and the scab-susceptible 'Golden Delicious' cultivar. Trees subjected to the same crop load were cultivated using either an organic (ORG) or an integrated production (IP) system. Physicochemical properties, phenolic content, and sensorial quality of fruit from both systems were compared. There were no significant differences in fruit mass, starch, and total soluble solid content (the latter was higher in ORG 'Liberty') between ORG and IP fruit, whereas significantly higher flesh firmness was found in ORG fruit (except no difference in 'Golden Delicious'). Significantly higher total phenolic content in ORG fruit was found in 'Golden Delicious', whereas differences in other cultivars were not significant. Targeted metabolomic profiling of multiple classes of phenolics confirmed the impact of the production system on the 'Golden Delicious' phenolic profile as higher levels of 4-hydroxybenzoic acid, neo- and chlorogenic acids, phloridzin, procyanidin B2+B4, -3-O-glucoside and -3-O-galactoside of quercetin, kaempferol-3-O-rutinoside, and rutin being found in ORG fruit. The results obtained suggested that scab resistance influenced the phenolic biosynthesis in relation to the agricultural system. Sensorial evaluation indicated significantly better flavor (except for 'Topaz') and better appearance of IP fruit.

High resolution reconstruction of monthly autumn and winter precipitation of Iberian Peninsula for last 150 years.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cortesi, N.; Trigo, R.; González-Hidalgo, J. C.; Ramos, A.

2012-04-01

Precipitation over Iberian Peninsula (IP) presents large values of interannual variability and large spatial contrasts between wet mountainous regions in the north and dry regions in the southern plains. Unlike other European regions, IP was poorly monitored for precipitation during 19th century. Here we present a new approach to fill this gap. A set of 26 atmospheric circulation weather types (Trigo R.M. and DaCamara C.C., 2000) derived from a recent SLP dataset, the EMULATE (European and North Atlantic daily to multidecadal climate variability) Project, was used to reconstruct Iberian monthly precipitation from October to March during 1851-1947. Principal Component Regression Analysis was chosen to develop monthly precipitation reconstruction back to 1851 and calibrated over 1948-2003 period for 3030 monthly precipitation series of high-density homogenized MOPREDAS (Monthly Precipitation Database for Spain and Portugal) database. Validation was conducted over 1920-1947 at 15 key site locations. Results show high model performance for selected months, with a mean coefficient of variation (CV) around 0.6 during validation period. Lower CV values were achieved in western area of IP. Trigo, R. M., and DaCamara, C.C., 2000: "Circulation weather types and their impact on the precipitation regime in Portugal". Int. J. Climatol., 20, 1559-1581.

Type 1 and 3 inositol trisphosphate receptors are required for extra-embryonic vascular development.

PubMed

Uchida, Keiko; Nakazawa, Maki; Yamagishi, Chihiro; Mikoshiba, Katsuhiko; Yamagishi, Hiroyuki

2016-10-01

The embryonic-maternal interface of the placental labyrinth, allantois, and yolk sac are vital during embryogenesis; however, the precise mechanism underlying the vascularization of these structures remains unknown. Herein we focus on the role of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) receptors (IP3R), which are intracellular Ca(2+) release channels, in placentation. Double knockout (DKO) of type 1 and 3 IP3Rs (IP3R1 and IP3R3, respectively) in mice resulted in embryonic lethality around embryonic day (E) 11.5. Because IP3R1 and IP3R3 were co-expressed in endothelial cells in the labyrinth, allantois, and yolk sac, we investigated extra-embryonic vascular development in IP3R1- and IP3R3-DKO mice. The formation of chorionic plates and yolk sac vessels seemed dysregulated around the timing of the chorio-allantoic attachment, immediately followed by the disorganization of allantoic vessels, the decreased expression of the spongiotrophoblast cell marker Tpbpa and the growth retardation of the embryos in DKO mice. Fluorescent immunohistochemistry demonstrated downregulation of a vascular endothelial marker, CD31, in labyrinth embryonic vessels and poor elongation of extra-embryonic mesoderm into the labyrinth layer in DKO placenta, whereas the branching of the DKO chorionic trophoblast was initiated. In addition, allantoic and yolk sac vessels in extra-embryonic tissues were less remodeled in DKO mice. In vitro endothelial cord formation and migration activities of cultured vascular endothelial cells derived from human umbilical vein were downregulated under the inhibition of IP3R. Our results suggest that IP3R1 and IP3R3 are required for extra-embryonic vascularization in the placenta, allantois, and yolk sac. This is the first demonstration of the essential role of IP3/IP3Rs signaling in the development of the vasculature at the embryonic-maternal interface. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.