Graphene versus Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes for Electrochemical Glucose Biosensing

PubMed Central

Zheng, Dan; Vashist, Sandeep Kumar; Dykas, Michal Marcin; Saha, Surajit; Al-Rubeaan, Khalid; Lam, Edmond; Luong, John H.T.; Sheu, Fwu-Shan

2013-01-01

A simple procedure was developed for the fabrication of electrochemical glucose biosensors using glucose oxidase (GOx), with graphene or multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs). Graphene and MWCNTs were dispersed in 0.25% 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES) and drop cast on 1% KOH-pre-treated glassy carbon electrodes (GCEs). The EDC (1-ethyl-(3-dimethylaminopropyl) carbodiimide)-activated GOx was then bound covalently on the graphene- or MWCNT-modified GCE. Both the graphene- and MWCNT-based biosensors detected the entire pathophysiological range of blood glucose in humans, 1.4–27.9 mM. However, the direct electron transfer (DET) between GOx and the modified GCE’s surface was only observed for the MWCNT-based biosensor. The MWCNT-based glucose biosensor also provided over a four-fold higher current signal than its graphene counterpart. Several interfering substances, including drug metabolites, provoked negligible interference at pathological levels for both the MWCNT- and graphene-based biosensors. However, the former was more prone to interfering substances and drug metabolites at extremely pathological concentrations than its graphene counterpart. PMID:28809354

Graphene versus Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes for Electrochemical Glucose Biosensing.

PubMed

Zheng, Dan; Vashist, Sandeep Kumar; Dykas, Michal Marcin; Saha, Surajit; Al-Rubeaan, Khalid; Lam, Edmond; Luong, John H T; Sheu, Fwu-Shan

2013-03-14

: A simple procedure was developed for the fabrication of electrochemical glucose biosensors using glucose oxidase (GOx), with graphene or multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs). Graphene and MWCNTs were dispersed in 0.25% 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES) and drop cast on 1% KOH-pre-treated glassy carbon electrodes (GCEs). The EDC (1-ethyl-(3-dimethylaminopropyl) carbodiimide)-activated GOx was then bound covalently on the graphene- or MWCNT-modified GCE. Both the graphene- and MWCNT-based biosensors detected the entire pathophysiological range of blood glucose in humans, 1.4-27.9 mM. However, the direct electron transfer (DET) between GOx and the modified GCE's surface was only observed for the MWCNT-based biosensor. The MWCNT-based glucose biosensor also provided over a four-fold higher current signal than its graphene counterpart. Several interfering substances, including drug metabolites, provoked negligible interference at pathological levels for both the MWCNT- and graphene-based biosensors. However, the former was more prone to interfering substances and drug metabolites at extremely pathological concentrations than its graphene counterpart.

The Use of MS-based Metabolomics to Determine Markers Associated with Endocrine Disruption in Small Fish Species

EPA Science Inventory

Endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are exogenous substances that disrupt the physiological function of endogenous hormones. In fish, these xenobiotics are capable of interfering with the dynamic equilibrium of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis resulting in adverse ...

Improved detection of endoparasite DNA in soil sample PCR by the use of anti-inhibitory substances.

PubMed

Krämer, F; Vollrath, T; Schnieder, T; Epe, C

2002-09-26

Although there have been numerous microbial examinations of soil for the presence of human pathogenic developmental parasite stages of Ancylostoma caninum and Toxocara canis, molecular techniques (e.g. DNA extraction, purification and subsequent PCR) have scarcely been applied. Here, DNA preparations of soil samples artificially contaminated with genomic DNA or parasite eggs were examined by PCR. A. caninum and T. canis-specific primers based on the ITS-2 sequence were used for amplification. After the sheer DNA preparation a high content of PCR-interfering substances was still detectable. Subsequently, two different inhibitors of PCR-interfering agents (GeneReleaser, Bioventures Inc. and Maximator, Connex GmbH) were compared in PCR. Both substances increased PCR sensitivity greatly. However, comparison of the increase in sensitivity achieved with the two compounds demonstrated the superiority of Maximator, which enhanced sensitivity to the point of permitting positive detection of a single A. caninum egg and three T. canis eggs in a soil sample. This degree of sensitivity could not be achieved with GeneReleaser for either parasite Furthermore, Maximator not only increased sensitivity; it also cost less, required less time and had a lower risk of contamination. Future applications of molecular methods in epidemiological examinations of soil samples are discussed/elaborated.

Determination of ethanol in breath for legal purposes using a five-filter infrared analyzer: studies on response to volatile interfering substances.

PubMed

Jones, Alan Wayne; Andersson, Lars

2008-06-01

The analysis of ethanol in exhaled breath is widely accepted and used worldwide for legal purposes to gather evidence of alcohol-impaired driving. Most evidential breath-alcohol instruments incorporate infrared (IR) spectroscopy as the analytical principle focusing on C-H or C-O stretching frequencies in ethanol molecules. The instrument approved for legal purposes in Sweden is called Evidenzer and is equipped with five infrared filters of which four are used for identification and quantification of ethanol and the fifth is a reference filter. The response of Evidenzer was tested against 21 volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and the instrument was programmed to deduct any bias caused by these VOCs if present in a sample of breath. If the amount deducted exceeds a certain threshold value, the entire test is aborted. Whenever this happens, the police request a specimen of venous blood for analysis by gas chromatography. Of a total of 24 072 drunken drivers, the evidential breath-alcohol test was aborted on 27 occasions (0.11%) because an interfering substance was present above the critical threshold. The VOCs most commonly identified in blood were acetone, isopropanol and/or methyl ethyl ketone (MEK). Elevated levels of acetone and isopropanol might arise during ketogenesis in people suffering from diabetes, or in those who eat low carbohydrate diets. High concentrations of acetone and MEK are probably caused by people drinking a technical alcohol product (T-Red), which is available in Sweden and is denatured with these agents. This study confirms that relatively few apprehended drivers in Sweden have elevated concentrations of VOCs in breath other than ethanol. Even the aborted breath tests, to a large extent, contained ethanol above the legal limit for driving.

Microchemical urinalysis. IX - Determination of hydroxyproline in urine.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Grunbaum, B. W.; Pace, N.

1973-01-01

A simplified procedure is described for the determination of hydroxyproline in human or monkey urine. In this procedure 1 ml of urine is subjected in succession to hydrolysis, oxidation, extraction, and color development. During these steps impurities and interfering substances are eliminated, thus resulting in a chromophore due to hydroxyproline alone.

Improved selectivity for high-performance liquid chromatographic determination of clonazepam in plasma of epileptic patients.

PubMed

Le Guellec, C; Gaudet, M L; Breteau, M

1998-11-20

We report a high-performance liquid chromatography method for clonazepam determination in plasma. The use of a synthetic silica-based stationary phase markedly improved clonazepam resolution compared to standard reversed-phase columns. A liquid-liquid extraction was used, associated with reversed-phase chromatography, gradient elution and ultraviolet detection. Accuracy and precision were satisfactory at therapeutic concentrations. Selectivity was studied for benzodiazepines or other antiepileptic drugs, with particular attention to newly marketed drugs i.e., gabapentine and vigabatrin. No interfering substance was evidenced. Under the conditions described, it was possible to quantify clonazepam at nanogram level even when carbamazepine was present at therapeutic concentrations.

Glyphosate detection with ammonium nitrate and humic acids as potential interfering substances by pulsed voltammetry technique.

PubMed

Martínez Gil, Pablo; Laguarda-Miro, Nicolas; Camino, Juan Soto; Peris, Rafael Masot

2013-10-15

Pulsed voltammetry has been used to detect and quantify glyphosate on buffered water in presence of ammonium nitrate and humic substances. Glyphosate is the most widely used herbicide active ingredient in the world. It is a non-selective broad spectrum herbicide but some of its health and environmental effects are still being discussed. Nowadays, glyphosate pollution in water is being monitored but quantification techniques are slow and expensive. Glyphosate wastes are often detected in countryside water bodies where organic substances and fertilizers (commonly based on ammonium nitrate) may also be present. Glyphosate also forms complexes with humic acids so these compounds have also been taken into consideration. The objective of this research is to study the interference of these common pollutants in glyphosate measurements by pulsed voltammetry. The statistical treatment of the voltammetric data obtained lets us discriminate glyphosate from the other studied compounds and a mathematical model has been built to quantify glyphosate concentrations in a buffer despite the presence of humic substances and ammonium nitrate. In this model, the coefficient of determination (R(2)) is 0.977 and the RMSEP value is 2.96 × 10(-5) so the model is considered statistically valid. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Short communication: Improved method for centrifugal recovery of bacteria from raw milk applied to sensitive real-time quantitative PCR detection of Salmonella spp

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Centrifugation of milk is widely used as a separation/concentration step in assays for pathogenic microorganisms. Separation of the cream and liquid supernate from the pellet containing sedimented solids, somatic cells and microorganisms eliminates many interfering substances, and resuspension of th...

Ibogaine reduces organ colonization in murine systemic and gastrointestinal Candida albicans infections.

PubMed

Yordanov, M; Dimitrova, P; Patkar, S; Falcocchio, S; Xoxi, E; Saso, L; Ivanovska, N

2005-07-01

In the present study the effect of the indole alkaloid ibogaine on the in vitro lipolytic activity and adherence to epithelial cells of Candida albicans was investigated. The substance was administered intraperitoneally at a dose of 5 mg kg(-1) day(-1) in mice with disseminated and gastrointestinal C. albicans infections. Ibogaine significantly decreased the rate of mortality and the number of C. albicans c.f.u. recovered from the kidney, liver and spleen. Ibogaine interfered with the early stages of both disseminated and gastrointestinal C. albicans infections but did not reduce the number of C. albicans c.f.u. in the organs at the late phase of infections. The development of a specific immune response was not influenced by ibogaine, since the delayed-type hypersensitivity reaction to C. albicans and the production of interferon (IFN)-gamma were similar in control and ibogaine-treated mice. The combined use of amphotericin B plus ibogaine in the treatment of mice with gastrointestinal infection reduced organ colonization more strongly than each substance alone.

Flow cytometer jet monitor system

DOEpatents

Van den Engh, Ger

1997-01-01

A direct jet monitor illuminates the jet of a flow cytometer in a monitor wavelength band which is substantially separate from the substance wavelength band. When a laser is used to cause fluorescence of the substance, it may be appropriate to use an infrared source to illuminate the jet and thus optically monitor the conditions within the jet through a CCD camera or the like. This optical monitoring may be provided to some type of controller or feedback system which automatically changes either the horizontal location of the jet, the point at which droplet separation occurs, or some other condition within the jet in order to maintain optimum conditions. The direct jet monitor may be operated simultaneously with the substance property sensing and analysis system so that continuous monitoring may be achieved without interfering with the substance data gathering and may be configured so as to allow the front of the analysis or free fall area to be unobstructed during processing.

Evaluation of four slide test kits for the detection of human chorionic gonadotropin in urine

PubMed Central

Dietrich, Michael; French, J. A.

1974-01-01

Three “indirect-type” slide tests utilizing the principle of hemagglutination inhibition and one new “direct-type” slide test employing direct agglutination were evaluated for their sensitivity in detecting human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) in urine. The results of positive tests in a group of woman in very early pregnancy were correlated with the “days after last menses”. In this series the direct slide test was the most accurate. A control must be used with each direct test to indicate interfering substances and when such are present a different test must be used. All tests were found to be of the relative sensitivity stated by the manufacturer. PMID:4851924

Stevia Nonsweetener Fraction Displays an Insulinotropic Effect Involving Neurotransmission in Pancreatic Islets.

PubMed

Piovan, Silvano; Pavanello, Audrei; Peixoto, Giuliana Maria Ledesma; Matiusso, Camila Cristina Ianoni; de Moraes, Ana Maria Praxedes; Martins, Isabela Peixoto; Malta, Ananda; Palma-Rigo, Kesia; da Silva Franco, Claudinéia Conationi; Milani, Paula Gimenez; Dacome, Antonio Sérgio; da Costa, Silvio Claudio; de Freitas Mathias, Paulo Cezar; Mareze-Costa, Cecília Edna

2018-01-01

Stevia rebaudiana (Bert.) Bertoni besides being a source of noncaloric sweeteners is also an important source of bioactive molecules. Many plant extracts, mostly obtained with ethyl acetate solvent, are rich in polyphenol compounds that present insulinotropic effects. To investigate whether the nonsweetener fraction, which is rich in phenolic compounds isolated from Stevia rebaudiana with the solvent ethyl acetate (EAF), has an insulinotropic effect, including interference at the terminals of the autonomic nervous system of the pancreatic islets of rats. Pancreatic islets were isolated from Wistar rats and incubated with EAF and inhibitory or stimulatory substances of insulin secretion, including cholinergic and adrenergic agonists and antagonists. EAF potentiates glucose-stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS) only in the presence of high glucose and calcium-dependent concentrations. EAF increased muscarinic insulinotropic effects in pancreatic islets, interfering with the muscarinic receptor subfamily M 3 . Adrenergic inhibitory effects on GSIS were attenuated in the presence of EAF, which interfered with the adrenergic α 2 receptor. Results suggest that EAF isolated from stevia leaves is a potential therapy for treating type 2 diabetes mellitus by stimulating insulin secretion only in high glucose concentrations, enhancing parasympathetic signal transduction and inhibiting sympathetic signal transduction in beta cells.

Stevia Nonsweetener Fraction Displays an Insulinotropic Effect Involving Neurotransmission in Pancreatic Islets

PubMed Central

Pavanello, Audrei; Peixoto, Giuliana Maria Ledesma; Matiusso, Camila Cristina Ianoni; de Moraes, Ana Maria Praxedes; Martins, Isabela Peixoto; Palma-Rigo, Kesia; da Silva Franco, Claudinéia Conationi; Milani, Paula Gimenez; Dacome, Antonio Sérgio; da Costa, Silvio Claudio; de Freitas Mathias, Paulo Cezar; Mareze-Costa, Cecília Edna

2018-01-01

Stevia rebaudiana (Bert.) Bertoni besides being a source of noncaloric sweeteners is also an important source of bioactive molecules. Many plant extracts, mostly obtained with ethyl acetate solvent, are rich in polyphenol compounds that present insulinotropic effects. To investigate whether the nonsweetener fraction, which is rich in phenolic compounds isolated from Stevia rebaudiana with the solvent ethyl acetate (EAF), has an insulinotropic effect, including interference at the terminals of the autonomic nervous system of the pancreatic islets of rats. Pancreatic islets were isolated from Wistar rats and incubated with EAF and inhibitory or stimulatory substances of insulin secretion, including cholinergic and adrenergic agonists and antagonists. EAF potentiates glucose-stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS) only in the presence of high glucose and calcium-dependent concentrations. EAF increased muscarinic insulinotropic effects in pancreatic islets, interfering with the muscarinic receptor subfamily M3. Adrenergic inhibitory effects on GSIS were attenuated in the presence of EAF, which interfered with the adrenergic α 2 receptor. Results suggest that EAF isolated from stevia leaves is a potential therapy for treating type 2 diabetes mellitus by stimulating insulin secretion only in high glucose concentrations, enhancing parasympathetic signal transduction and inhibiting sympathetic signal transduction in beta cells. PMID:29853880

A new voltammetric strategy for sensitive and selective determination of gallium using cupferron as a complexing agent.

PubMed

Grabarczyk, Malgorzata; Wardak, Cecylia

2014-01-01

This article describes a differential pulse adsorptive stripping voltammetric method for the trace determination of gallium in environmental water samples. It is based on the adsorptive deposition of the complex Ga(III)-cupferron at the hanging mercury drop electrode (HMDE) at -0.4 V (versus Ag/AgCl) and its cathodic stripping during the potential scan. The method was optimized as concerns the main electrochemical parameters that affect the voltammetric determination (supporting electrolyte, pH, cupferron concentration, deposition potential and time). The calibration graph is linear from 5 × 10(-10) to 5 × 10(-7) mol L(-1) with a detection limit calculated as 1.3 × 10(-10) mol L(-1) for deposition time of 30 s. The influence of interfering substances such as surfactants and humic substances present in the matrices of natural water samples on the Ga(III) signal was examined and a satisfying minimization of these interferences was proposed. The procedure was applied to direct determination of gallium in environmental water samples.

Phone camera detection of glucose blood level based on magnetic particles entrapped inside bubble wrap.

PubMed

Martinkova, Pavla; Pohanka, Miroslav

2016-12-18

Glucose is an important diagnostic biochemical marker of diabetes but also for organophosphates, carbamates, acetaminophens or salicylates poisoning. Hence, innovation of accurate and fast detection assay is still one of priorities in biomedical research. Glucose sensor based on magnetic particles (MPs) with immobilized enzymes glucose oxidase (GOx) and horseradish peroxidase (HRP) was developed and the GOx catalyzed reaction was visualized by a smart-phone-integrated camera. Exponential decay concentration curve with correlation coefficient 0.997 and with limit of detection 0.4 mmol/l was achieved. Interfering and matrix substances were measured due to possibility of assay influencing and no effect of the tested substances was observed. Spiked plasma samples were also measured and no influence of plasma matrix on the assay was proved. The presented assay showed complying results with reference method (standard spectrophotometry based on enzymes glucose oxidase and peroxidase inside plastic cuvettes) with linear dependence and correlation coefficient 0.999 in concentration range between 0 and 4 mmol/l. On the grounds of measured results, method was considered as highly specific, accurate and fast assay for detection of glucose.

The effectiveness of substance use measures in the detection of full and partial denial of drug use.

PubMed

Wooley, Chelsea N; Rogers, Richard; Fiduccia, Chelsea E; Kelsey, Katherine

2013-12-01

Appraisals of substance abuse often constitute a key component of psychological assessments affecting both diagnostic and treatment issues. Because of negative consequences, many substance users engage in outright denials and marked minimization regarding their drug use. Psychological measures, especially those with transparent items, are highly vulnerable to this denial. To address this response style, indirect items are often included on substance use measures to identify those who deny their use. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of complete and partial denial on the Drug Abuse Screening Test-20, Substance Abuse Subtle Screening Inventory-3, and Drug Use Screening Inventory-Revised. Partial denial refers to the disacknowledgement of drug-related impairment interfering in multiple domains of a client's functioning. The study used a mixed within- and between-subjects design with 102 inpatient substance users. Each participant completed the study under two conditions: a disclosing condition and an experimental condition (either complete denial or partial denial). Results show partial denial is distinctly different from complete denial across three self-report substance use measures. Importantly, substance users engaging in these denial conditions were often undetected by these measures. Contrary to expectations, subtle scales with indirect item content were only minimally more effective than the face valid scales alone for the assessment of denied drug use.

Anemia Causes Hypoglycemia in Intensive Care Unit Patients Due to Error in Single-Channel Glucometers: Methods of Reducing Patient Risk

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-01-01

hematocrit, low oxygen tension, acetaminophen, uric acid , ascorbic acid , maltose, galactose, xy- lose, lactose, operator inexperience, age of strips, heat...Biomedical, Waltham, MA) that corrects for the effects of anemia, low oxygen tension, acetaminophen, uric acid , ascorbic acid , maltose, galactose, xylose, and...resulted in inappropriately high glucometer values (data not shown). The effects of interfering substances (acetaminophen, uric acid , ascorbic acid

Overcoming interference with the detection of a stable isotopically labeled microtracer in the evaluation of beclabuvir absolute bioavailability using a concomitant microtracer approach.

PubMed

Jiang, Hao; Titsch, Craig; Zeng, Jianing; Jones, Barry; Joyce, Philip; Gandhi, Yash; Turley, Wesley; Burrell, Richard; Aubry, Anne F; Arnold, Mark E

2017-09-05

The oral absolute bioavailability of beclabuvir in healthy subjects was determined using a microdose (100μg) of the stable isotopically labeled tracer via intravenous (IV) infusion started after oral dosing of beclabuvir (150mg). To simultaneously analyze the concentrations of the IV microtracer ([ 13 C 6 ]beclabuvir) and beclabuvir in plasma samples, a liquid chromatography-triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method was initially developed. Surprisingly beclabuvir significantly interfered with the IV microtracer detection when using the selected reaction monitoring (SRM) in the assay. An interfering component from the drug substance was observed using a high resolution mass spectrometer (HRMS). The mass-to-charge (m/z) of the interfering component was -32ppm different from the nominal value for the IV microtracer and thus could not be differentiated in the SRM assay by the unit mass resolution. To overcome this interference, we evaluated two approaches by either monitoring an alternative product ion using the SRM assay or isolating the interfering component using the parallel reaction monitoring (PRM) assay on the HRMS. This case study has demonstrated two practical approaches for overcoming interferences with the detection of stable isotopically labeled IV microtracers in the evaluation of absolute bioavailability, which provides users the flexibility in using either LC-MS/MS or HRMS to mitigate unpredicted interferences in the assay to support microtracer absolute bioavailability studies. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Marine bioactives and potential application in sports.

PubMed

Gammone, Maria Alessandra; Gemello, Eugenio; Riccioni, Graziano; D'Orazio, Nicolantonio

2014-04-30

An enriched diet with antioxidants, such as vitamin E, vitamin C, β-carotene and phenolic compounds, has always been suggested to improve oxidative stress, preventing related diseases. In this respect, marine natural product (MNP), such as COX inhibitors, marine steroids, molecules interfering with factors involved in the modulation of gene expression (such as NF-κB), macrolides, many antioxidant agents, thermogenic substances and even substances that could help the immune system and that result in the protection of cartilage, have been recently gaining attention. The marine world represents a reserve of bioactive ingredients, with considerable potential as functional food. Substances, such as chitin, chitosan, n-3 oils, carotenoids, vitamins, minerals and bioactive peptides, can provide several health benefits, such as the reduction of cardiovascular diseases, anti-inflammatory and anticarcinogenic activities. In addition, new marine bioactive substances with potential anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and thermogenic capacity may provide health benefits and performance improvement, especially in those who practice physical activity, because of their increased free radical and Reacting Oxygen Species (ROS) production during exercise, and, particularly, in athletes. The aim of this review is to examine the potential pharmacological properties and application of many marine bioactive substances in sports.

Marine Bioactives and Potential Application in Sports

PubMed Central

Gammone, Maria Alessandra; Gemello, Eugenio; Riccioni, Graziano; D’Orazio, Nicolantonio

2014-01-01

An enriched diet with antioxidants, such as vitamin E, vitamin C, β-carotene and phenolic compounds, has always been suggested to improve oxidative stress, preventing related diseases. In this respect, marine natural product (MNP), such as COX inhibitors, marine steroids, molecules interfering with factors involved in the modulation of gene expression (such as NF-κB), macrolides, many antioxidant agents, thermogenic substances and even substances that could help the immune system and that result in the protection of cartilage, have been recently gaining attention. The marine world represents a reserve of bioactive ingredients, with considerable potential as functional food. Substances, such as chitin, chitosan, n-3 oils, carotenoids, vitamins, minerals and bioactive peptides, can provide several health benefits, such as the reduction of cardiovascular diseases, anti-inflammatory and anticarcinogenic activities. In addition, new marine bioactive substances with potential anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and thermogenic capacity may provide health benefits and performance improvement, especially in those who practice physical activity, because of their increased free radical and Reacting Oxygen Species (ROS) production during exercise, and, particularly, in athletes. The aim of this review is to examine the potential pharmacological properties and application of many marine bioactive substances in sports. PMID:24796298

Emotional responses to work-family conflict: an examination of gender role orientation working men and women.

PubMed

Livingston, Beth A; Judge, Timothy A

2008-01-01

The present study tested the effect of work-family conflict on emotions and the moderating effects of gender role orientation. On the basis of a multilevel design, the authors found that family-interfering-with- work was positively related to guilt, and gender role orientation interacted with both types of conflict (work-interfering-with-family and family-interfering-with-work) to predict guilt. Specifically, in general, traditional individuals experienced more guilt from family-interfering-with-work, and egalitarian individuals experienced more guilt from work-interfering-with-family. Additionally, a higher level interaction indicated that traditional men tended to experience a stronger relationship between family-interfering-with-work and guilt than did egalitarian men or women of either gender role orientation. 2008 APA

Application of micro-Raman spectroscopy for fight against terrorism and smuggling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Almaviva, Salvatore; Botti, Sabina; Palucci, Antonio; Puiu, Adriana; Schnürer, Frank; Schweikert, Wenka; Romolo, Francesco Saverio

2014-04-01

We report the results of Raman measurements on some common military explosives and explosives precursors deposited on clothing fabrics, both synthetic and natural, in concentration comparable to those obtained from a single fingerprint or mixed with similar harmless substances to detect illegal compounds for smuggling activities. Raman spectra were obtained using an integrated portable Raman system equipped with an optical microscope and a 785-nm laser in an analysis of <1 min. The spectral features of each illicit substance have been identified and distinguished from those belonging to the substrate fabric or from the interfering compound. Our results show that the application of Raman spectroscopy (RS) with a microscope-based portable apparatus can provide interpretable Raman spectra for a fast, in-situ analysis, directly from explosive particles of some μ, despite the contribution of the substrate, leaving the sample completely unaltered for further, more specific, and propedeutic laboratory analysis. We also show how the RS is suitable for detecting illegal compounds mixed with harmless substances for smuggling purposes or for counterfeiting activities.

Enzyme electrochemical sensor electrode and method of making it

DOEpatents

Rishpon, Judith; Zawodzinski, Thomas A.; Gottesfeld, Shimshon

1992-01-01

An electrochemical sensor electrode is formed from an electronic conductor coated with a casting solution containing a perfluorosulfonic acid ionomer and a selected enzyme. The selected enzyme catalyzes a reaction between a predetermined substance in a solution and oxygen to form an electrochemically active compound that is detected at the electronic conductor. The resulting perfluorosulfonic acid polymer provides a stable matrix for the enzyme for long lived enzyme activity, wherein only thin coatings are required on the metal conductor. The polymer also advantageously repels interfering substances from contacting the enzyme and contains quantities of oxygen to maintain a sensing capability during conditions of oxygen depletion in the sample. In one particular embodiment, glucose oxidase is mixed with the perfluorosulfonic acid ionomer to form an electrode for glucose detection.

Identification of Substances Interfering with Illicit Drug Testing

DTIC Science & Technology

1988-06-01

academic goals. p p 0p- %’N1 ~.5 INTRODUCTION In the past five years, a growing public concern over the use of illicit drugs in the workplace has led to an...workers in the transportation industry; and for individuals who serve as role models, such as atheletes (2). Two factors have led to the widespread use...determine the minimum amount of interferent needed to produce a false negative result. Standard Enzyme Assay The assay technique utilized in the performance

Determining major factors controlling phosphorus removal by promising adsorbents used for lake restoration: A linear mixed model approach.

PubMed

Funes, A; Martínez, F J; Álvarez-Manzaneda, I; Conde-Porcuna, J M; de Vicente, J; Guerrero, F; de Vicente, I

2018-05-17

Phosphorus (P) removal from lake/drainage waters by novel adsorbents may be affected by competitive substances naturally present in the aqueous media. Up to date, the effect of interfering substances has been studied basically on simple matrices (single-factor effects) or by applying basic statistical approaches when using natural lake water. In this study, we determined major factors controlling P removal efficiency in 20 aquatic ecosystems in the southeast Spain by using linear mixed models (LMMs). Two non-magnetic -CFH-12 ® and Phoslock ® - and two magnetic materials -hydrous lanthanum oxide loaded silica-coated magnetite (Fe-Si-La) and commercial zero-valent iron particles (FeHQ)- were tested to remove P at two adsorbent dosages. Results showed that the type of adsorbent, the adsorbent dosage and color of water (indicative of humic substances) are major factors controlling P removal efficiency. Differences in physico-chemical properties (i.e. surface charge or specific surface), composition and structure explain differences in maximum P adsorption capacity and performance of the adsorbents when competitive ions are present. The highest P removal efficiency, independently on whether the adsorbent dosage was low or high, were 85-100% for Phoslock and CFH-12 ® , 70-100% for Fe-Si-La and 0-15% for FeHQ. The low dosage of FeHQ, compared to previous studies, explained its low P removal efficiency. Although non-magnetic materials were the most efficient, magnetic adsorbents (especially Fe-Si-La) could be proposed for P removal as they can be recovered along with P and be reused, potentially making them more profitable in a long-term period. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Antifungal activity of 6-quinolinyl N-oxide chalcones against Paracoccidioides.

PubMed

de Sá, Nívea Pereira; Cisalpino, Patrícia Silva; Tavares, Luciana de Carvalho; Espíndola, Leandro; Pizzolatti, Moacir Geraldo; Santos, Patrícia Campi; de Paula, Talles Prosperi; Rosa, Carlos Augusto; de Souza, Daniele da Glória; Santos, Daniel Assis; Johann, Susana

2015-03-01

Chalcones are an important class of natural compounds that have been widely applied as synthons in synthetic organic chemistry and possess diverse and interesting biological properties. We conducted tests with the synthetic substances 6-quinolinyl N-oxide chalcones 4c and 4e to determine their antifungal activity against several isolates of Paracoccidioides spp. and their activity in a murine model. We also determined whether the chalcones interacted with other drugs or interfered with the morphology of Paracoccidioides brasiliensis (Pb18) yeast cells. We verified that the substances were active against Paracoccidioides spp., but we did not show an interaction with the drugs tested when only the fractional inhibitory concentration index values were considered individually. We observed that the substances induced in vitro morphological changes. Compounds 4c and 4e showed activity similar to itraconazole in treated mice, as demonstrated by their ability to reduce the number of cfu recovered from the lungs. Histopathological analysis showed that animals treated with 4c presented fewer areas containing inflammatory infiltrate and larger areas of preserved lung tissue, whereas animals treated with itraconazole showed accumulation of inflammatory infiltrate and some granulomas. Mice treated with 4e exhibited inflammation that compromised the tissue. The results presented in this paper confirm the antifungal potential of the chalcones tested. The chalcone 4c was the more effective at controlling the disease in mice and this compound could be a candidate for future studies of the treatment of paracoccidioidomycosis. © The Author 2014. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the British Society for Antimicrobial Chemotherapy. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Electrochemical l-Lactic Acid Sensor Based on Immobilized ZnO Nanorods with Lactate Oxidase

PubMed Central

Ibupoto, Zafar Hussain; Ali Shah, Syed Muhammad Usman; Khun, Kimleang; Willander, Magnus

2012-01-01

In this work, fabrication of gold coated glass substrate, growth of ZnO nanorods and potentiometric response of lactic acid are explained. The biosensor was developed by immobilizing the lactate oxidase on the ZnO nanorods in combination with glutaraldehyde as a cross linker for lactate oxidase enzyme. The potentiometric technique was applied for the measuring the output (EMF) response of l-lactic acid biosensor. We noticed that the present biosensor has wide linear detection range of concentration from 1 × 10−4–1 × 100 mM with acceptable sensitivity about 41.33 ± 1.58 mV/decade. In addition, the proposed biosensor showed fast response time less than 10 s, a good selectivity towards l-lactic acid in presence of common interfering substances such as ascorbic acid, urea, glucose, galactose, magnesium ions and calcium ions. The present biosensor based on immobilized ZnO nanorods with lactate oxidase sustained its stability for more than three weeks. PMID:22736960

Electrochemical L-lactic acid sensor based on immobilized ZnO nanorods with lactate oxidase.

PubMed

Ibupoto, Zafar Hussain; Shah, Syed Muhammad Usman Ali; Khun, Kimleang; Willander, Magnus

2012-01-01

In this work, fabrication of gold coated glass substrate, growth of ZnO nanorods and potentiometric response of lactic acid are explained. The biosensor was developed by immobilizing the lactate oxidase on the ZnO nanorods in combination with glutaraldehyde as a cross linker for lactate oxidase enzyme. The potentiometric technique was applied for the measuring the output (EMF) response of l-lactic acid biosensor. We noticed that the present biosensor has wide linear detection range of concentration from 1 × 10(-4)-1 × 10(0) mM with acceptable sensitivity about 41.33 ± 1.58 mV/decade. In addition, the proposed biosensor showed fast response time less than 10 s, a good selectivity towards l-lactic acid in presence of common interfering substances such as ascorbic acid, urea, glucose, galactose, magnesium ions and calcium ions. The present biosensor based on immobilized ZnO nanorods with lactate oxidase sustained its stability for more than three weeks.

Inhibitors of peptidases: how they influence the biological activities of substance P, neurokinins, kinins and angiotensins in isolated vessels.

PubMed

Rouissi, N; Nantel, F; Drapeau, G; Rhaleb, N E; Dion, S; Regoli, D

1990-01-01

Myotropic effects of various peptides were measured in three isolated vessels, the dog carotid artery, the rabbit pulmonary artery and the rat portal vein in the absence and in presence of several peptidase inhibitors, in order to evaluate the interference by metabolism with the peptides' biological activities. After adequate controls, captopril (4.6 x 10(-6) mol/l), thiorphan (1.0 x 10(-6) mol/l), phosphoramidon (4.6 x 10(-6) mol/l), chymostatin (1 mg/l), bestatin (8.1 x 10(-6) mol/l) or bacitracin (1.4 x 10(-5) mol/l) were left in contact with the tissues for 20-40 min to inhibit tissue peptidases before measuring again the biological effects of the various peptides. In some experiments, mergetpa (5.4 x 10(-6) mol/l) was used. All peptidase inhibitors were inactive on their own and only captopril potentiated the effects of substance P, neurokinins, bradykinin and inhibited angiotensin I in two preparations, the dog carotid artery, the rat portal vein, and, excluding bradykinin, also in the rabbit pulmonary artery. Captopril and thiorphan significantly potentiated the maximal response of the rat portal vein to substance P and mergetpa inhibited completely the effect of bradykinin on the rabbit pulmonary artery. The present findings suggest that the most active proteolytic enzyme interfering with the biological effects of vasoactive peptides on three isolated vessels is the angiotensin-converting enzyme (kininase II).

Recent developments in human biomonitoring: non-invasive assessment of target tissue dose and effects of pneumotoxic metals.

PubMed

Mutti, A; Corradi, M

2006-01-01

Tobacco smoke and polluted environments substantially increase the lung burden of pneumotoxic chemicals, particularly pneumotoxic metallic elements. To achieve a better understanding of the early events between exposure to inhaled toxicants and the onset of adverse effects on the lung, the characterization of dose at the target organ would be extremely useful. Exhaled breath condensate (EBC), obtained by cooling exhaled air under conditions of spontaneous breathing, is a novel technique that could provide a non-invasive assessment of pulmonary pathobiology. Considering that EBC is water practically free of interfering solutes, it represents an ideal biological matrix for elemental characterization. Published data show that several toxic metals and trace elements are detectable in EBC, raising the possibility of using this medium to quantify the lung tissue dose of pneumotoxic substances. This novel approach may represent a significant advance over the analysis of alternative media (blood, serum, urine, hair), which are not as reliable (owing to interfering substances in the complex matrix) and reflect systemic rather than lung (target tissue) levels of both toxic metals and essential trace elements. Data obtained among workers occupationally exposed to either hard metals or chromium (VI) and in smokers with or without chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are reviewed to show that--together with biomarkers of exposure--EBC also allows the simultaneous quantification of biomarkers of effect directly sampled from the epithelial lining fluid, thus providing novel insights on both kinetic and dynamic aspects of metal toxicology.

Oil mixing behavior after an oil spill: identification conflicts of different fingerprints.

PubMed

He, Shijie; Yu, Hongjun; Luo, Yongming; Wang, Chuanyuan; Li, Xueshuang; Li, Zhongping

2018-04-01

Clearing up whether spilled oil is mixed or not can strengthen the accuracy of oil spill identification. In the present study, the biomarkers in spilled oil samples were detected. The weathering modes of different types of diagnostic ratio and carbon isotope values of individual n-alkanes were also analyzed. The results showed that the diagnostic ratios of steroids, terpenes and aromatics, and weathering characteristics of carbon isotope composition (δ 13 C) of individual n-alkanes supported the idea that Dalian oil spill emerged from a single oil source. Furthermore, commonly used diagnostic ratios of n-alkanes indicated that the Dalian oil spill had undergone the oil mixing process. The different identifying outcomes indicate that some kinds of n-alkane-rich substance (such as oil dispersants) were mixed in the Dalian spilled oil and interfered with the routine diagnosis ratios of n-alkanes.

Reduced Fluoresceinamine as a Fluorescent Sensor for Nitric Oxide

PubMed Central

Duarte, Abel J.; Esteves da Silva, Joaquim C.G.

2010-01-01

A new fluorescent sensor for nitric oxide (NO) is presented that is based on its reaction with a non fluorescent substance, reduced fluoresceinamine, producing the highly fluorescent fluoresceinamine. Using a portable homemade stabilized light source consisting of 450 nm LED and fiber optics to guide the light, the sensor responds linearly within seconds in the NO concentration range between about 10–750 μM with a limit of detection (LOD) of about 1 μM. The system generated precise intensity readings, with a relative standard deviation of less than 1%. The suitability of the sensor was assessed by monitoring the NO generated by either the nitrous acid decomposition reaction or from a NO-releasing compound. Using relatively high incubation times, the sensor also responds quantitatively to hydrogen peroxide and potassium superoxide, however, using transient signal measurements results in no interfering species. PMID:22294892

Quo vadis plant hormone analysis?

PubMed

Tarkowská, Danuše; Novák, Ondřej; Floková, Kristýna; Tarkowski, Petr; Turečková, Veronika; Grúz, Jiří; Rolčík, Jakub; Strnad, Miroslav

2014-07-01

Plant hormones act as chemical messengers in the regulation of myriads of physiological processes that occur in plants. To date, nine groups of plant hormones have been identified and more will probably be discovered. Furthermore, members of each group may participate in the regulation of physiological responses in planta both alone and in concert with members of either the same group or other groups. The ideal way to study biochemical processes involving these signalling molecules is 'hormone profiling', i.e. quantification of not only the hormones themselves, but also their biosynthetic precursors and metabolites in plant tissues. However, this is highly challenging since trace amounts of all of these substances are present in highly complex plant matrices. Here, we review advances, current trends and future perspectives in the analysis of all currently known plant hormones and the associated problems of extracting them from plant tissues and separating them from the numerous potentially interfering compounds.

On the suitability of refractometry for the analysis of glucose in blood-derived fluids.

PubMed

Zirk, K; Poetzschke, H

2004-07-01

Refractometry is the determination of the optical refractive index of a substance or a mixture of substances. It is a very sensitive method for the detection and quantification of dissolved analytes, but it is incapable of distinguishing between different analytes. The aim of this investigation was to determine the principle suitability of refractometry for the quantification of glucose (blood sugar) in blood and various blood fluids which can readily be obtained for medical diagnosis, in particular blood plasma, blood serum, and their ultrafiltrates. After the oral intake of freshly dissolved alpha-glucose, the in vivo blood contents of the alpha and beta anomers of glucose were found to be in an at least approximate equilibrium at all times. This observation is a prerequisite for a refractometrical determination of glucose due to the fact that both molecule forms have different refractive index increments. An assessment of the glucose content in untreated blood fluids was not possible, since no suitable relationship to the refractive index was found, most probably due to the influence of the many other substances present in blood on this parameter. However, after removal of certain macromolecules by ultrafiltration, value pairs showed a high level of correlation, providing the nominal molecular weight limit (cut-off) of the ultrafilter used possessed a maximum of 300 kDa. Besides macromolecules, the osmolality of the fluids undergoing measurement also proved to be a considerable interfering factor, particularly when values were outside the normal physiological range between 285 and 293 mmol/L. If a clinical application of this method is to be contemplated it is imperative (1) that blood cells are separated and removed, (2) that macromolecules present in plasma or serum are removed, e.g. by ultrafiltration, and (3) that beyond the results presented the influence of all small molecules other than glucose on the overall refractive index be determined and included in the calculation of analysis results.

A practical derivatization LC/MS approach for determination of trace level alkyl sulfonates and dialkyl sulfates genotoxic impurities in drug substances.

PubMed

An, Jianguo; Sun, Mingjiang; Bai, Lin; Chen, Ted; Liu, David Q; Kord, Alireza

2008-11-04

Derivatization LC/MS methodology has been developed for the determination of a group of commonly encountered alkyl esters of sulfonates or sulfates in drug substances at low ppm levels. This general method uses trimethylamine as the derivatizing reagent for ethyl/propyl/isopropyl esters and triethylamine for methyl esters. The resulting quaternary ammonium derivatization products are highly polar (ionic) and can be retained by a hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography (HILIC) column and readily separated from the main interfering active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) peak that is usually present at very high concentration. The method gives excellent sensitivity for all the alkyl esters at typical target analyte level of 1-2 ppm when the API samples were prepared at 5mg/mL. The recoveries at 1-2 ppm were generally above 85% for all the alkyl esters in the various APIs tested. The injection precisions of the lowest concentration standards were excellent with R.S.D.=0.4-4%. A linear range for concentrations from 0.2 to 20 ppm has been established with R(2)>or=0.99. This general method has been tested in a number of API matrices and used successfully for determination of alkyl sulfonates or dialkyl sulfates in support of API batch releases at GlaxoSmithKline.

Ouabain Modulates Zymosan-Induced Peritonitis in Mice

PubMed Central

Leite, Jacqueline Alves; Alves, Anne Kaliery De Abreu; Galvão, José Guilherme Marques; Teixeira, Mariana Pires; Rumjanek, Vivian Mary; Rodrigues-Mascarenhas, Sandra

2015-01-01

Ouabain, a potent inhibitor of the Na+, K+-ATPase, was identified as an endogenous substance. Recently, ouabain was shown to affect various immunological processes. We have previously demonstrated the ability of ouabain to modulate inflammation, but little is known about the mechanisms involved. Thus, the aim of the present work is to evaluate the immune modulatory role of ouabain on zymosan-induced peritonitis in mice. Our results show that ouabain decreased plasma exudation (33%). After induction of inflammation, OUA treatment led to a 46% reduction in the total number of cells, as a reflex of a decrease of polymorphonuclear leukocytes, which does not appear to be due to cell death. Furthermore, OUA decreased TNF-α (57%) and IL-1β (58%) levels, without interfering with IL-6 and IL-10. Also, in vitro experiments show that ouabain did not affect endocytic capacity. Moreover, electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA) shows that zymosan treatment increased (85%) NF-κB binding activity and that ouabain reduced (30%) NF-κB binding activity induced by zymosan. Therefore, our data suggest that ouabain modulated acute inflammatory response, reducing the number of cells and cytokines levels in the peritoneal cavity, as well as NFκB activation, suggesting a new mode of action of this substance. PMID:26078492

Maximum workplace concentration values and carcinogenicity classification for mixtures.

PubMed Central

Bartsch, R; Forderkunz, S; Reuter, U; Sterzl-Eckert, H; Greim, H

1998-01-01

In Germany, the Commission for the Investigation of Health Hazards of Chemical Compounds in the Work Area (MAK Commission) generally sets maximum workplace concentration values (i.e., a proposed occupational exposure level [OEL]) for single substances, not for mixtures. For mixtures containing substances with a genotoxic and carcinogenic potential, the commission considered it scientifically inappropriate to establish a safe threshold. This approach is currently under discussion. Carcinogenic mixtures are categorized according to either the carcinogenicity of the mixture or the classification of the carcinogenic substances included. In regulating exposure to mixtures, an approach similar to that used by the American Conference of Governmental Hygienists is proposed: For components with the same target organ and mode of action or interfering metabolism, synergistic effects must be expected and the respective OELs must be lowered. However, if there is proof that the components act independently, the OELs of the individual compounds are not considered to be modified. In the view of the commission, calculating OELs for solvent mixtures according to their liquid phase composition is not justified, and the setting of scientifically based OELs for complex mixtures is not possible. PMID:9860883

Novel and general approach to linear filter design for contrast-to-noise ratio enhancement of magnetic resonance images with multiple interfering features in the scene

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Soltanian-Zadeh, Hamid; Windham, Joe P.

1992-04-01

Maximizing the minimum absolute contrast-to-noise ratios (CNRs) between a desired feature and multiple interfering processes, by linear combination of images in a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scene sequence, is attractive for MRI analysis and interpretation. A general formulation of the problem is presented, along with a novel solution utilizing the simple and numerically stable method of Gram-Schmidt orthogonalization. We derive explicit solutions for the case of two interfering features first, then for three interfering features, and, finally, using a typical example, for an arbitrary number of interfering feature. For the case of two interfering features, we also provide simplified analytical expressions for the signal-to-noise ratios (SNRs) and CNRs of the filtered images. The technique is demonstrated through its applications to simulated and acquired MRI scene sequences of a human brain with a cerebral infarction. For these applications, a 50 to 100% improvement for the smallest absolute CNR is obtained.

A needle-type sensor for monitoring glucose in whole blood.

PubMed

Yang, Q; Atanasov, P; Wilkins, E

1997-01-01

A new surface-process technology employing electrochemical fixation of a bioactive substance (enzyme and heparin) to a sensor electrode was developed to provide biocompatability and functionality. The fabrication process includes electroentrapment of glucose oxidase and heparin on a platinum electrode by using 1,3-phenylenediamine codeposition. Electrochemically grown 1,3-phenylenediamine was also used as the outer coating of the sensor's enzyme electrode in order to extend the linear range. The sensor shows a sensitivity of 3 nA/mM and a linear range from 40 to 400 mg/dL at 37 degrees C when tested in whole blood. This sensor is characterized by a fast response. The sensor shows a minimum change in its performance when stored inactive in buffer for 12 weeks. When tested at physiologic glucose levels, the sensor demonstrates satisfactory low interference from common interfering substances. This technology seems promising for the preparation of implantable intravascular biosensors.

Breath alcohol, multisensor arrays, and electronic noses

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Paulsson, Nils; Winquist, Fredrik

1997-01-01

The concept behind a volatile compound mapper, or electronic nose, is to use the combination of multiple gas sensors and pattern recognition techniques to detect and quantify substances in gas mixtures. There are several different kinds of sensors which have been developed during recent years of which the base techniques are conducting polymers, piezo electrical crystals and solid state devices. In this work we have used a combination of gas sensitive field effect devices and semiconducting metal oxides. The most useful pattern recognition routine was found to be ANNs, which is a mathematical approximation of the human neural network. The aim of this work is to evaluate the possibility of using electronic noses in field instruments to detect drugs, arson residues, explosives etc. As a test application we have chosen breath alcohol measurements. There are several reasons for this. Breath samples are a quite complex mixture contains between 200 and 300 substances at trace levels. The alcohol level is low but still possible to handle. There are needs for replacing large and heavy mobile instruments with smaller devices. Current instrumentation is rather sensitive to interfering substances. The work so far has dealt with sampling, how to introduce ethanol and other substances in the breath, correlation measurements between the electronic nose and headspace GC, and how to evaluate the sensor signals.

The Metaproteome of "Park Grass" soil - a reference for EU soil science

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Quinn, Gerry; Dudley, Ed; Doerr, Stefan; Matthews, Peter; Halen, Ingrid; Walley, Richard; Ashton, Rhys; Delmont, Tom; Francis, Lewis; Gazze, Salvatore Andrea; Van Keulen, Geertje

2016-04-01

Soil metaproteomics, the systemic extraction and identification of proteins from a soil, is key to understanding the biological and physical processes that occur within the soil at a molecular level. Until recently, direct extraction of proteins from complex soils have yielded only dozens of protein identifications due to interfering substances, such as humic acids and clay, which co-extract and/or strongly adsorb protein, often causing problems in downstream processing, e.g. mass spectrometry. Furthermore, the current most successful, direct, proteomic extraction protocol favours larger molecular weight and/or heat-stable proteins due to its extraction protocol. We have now developed a novel, faster, direct soil protein extraction protocol which also addressed the problem of interfering substances, while only requiring less than 1 gram of material per extraction. We extracted protein from the 'Genomic Observatory' Park Grass at Rothamsted Research (UK), an ideally suited geographic site as it is the longest (>150 years) continually studied experiment on ungrazed permanent grassland in the world, for which a rich history of environmental/ecological data has been collected, including high quality publically available metagenome DNA sequences. Using this improved methodology, in conjunction with the creation of high quality, curated metagenomic sequence databases, we have been able to significantly improve protein identifications from one soil due to extracting a similar number of proteins that were >90% different when compared to the best current direct protocol. This optimised metaproteomics protocol has now enabled identification of thousands of proteins from one soil, leading therefore to a deeper insight of soil system processes at the molecular scale.

Coronographie interferéntielle pour la mission spatuale DARWIN: expérience de validation en laboratoire

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ollivier, Marc; Mariotti, Jean-Marie; Brunaud, Jacqueline; Michel, Guy; Bouchareine, Patrick; Léger, Alain; Artzner, Guy; Malbet, Fabien; Puget, Pascal; Coudé du Foresto, Vincent; Mennesson, Bertrand

2018-04-01

This paper, "Coronographie interferéntielle pour la mission spatuale DARWIN: expérience de validation en laboratoire," was presented as part of International Conference on Space Optics—ICSO 1997, held in Toulouse, France.

Determining the presence of chemicals with suspected endocrine activity in drinking water from the Madrid region (Spain) and assessment of their estrogenic, androgenic and thyroidal activities.

PubMed

Valcárcel, Y; Valdehíta, A; Becerra, E; López de Alda, M; Gil, A; Gorga, M; Petrovic, M; Barceló, D; Navas, J M

2018-06-01

Endocrine disruptors (EDs) are natural or man-made chemicals that can affect the health of organisms by interfering with their normal hormonal functions. Many of these substances can cause their effects at very low doses and, considering the key role played by the endocrine system on development, organisms in early phases of growth (foetal, childhood, puberty) are especially sensitive to the action of EDs. In addition, when combined, they can show additive, antagonistic and synergistic activities. Taking all this into account it is essential to determine the presence of this kind of compounds in drinking water. Thus the main aim of the present study was to monitor the presence of substances with suspected or known endocrine activity in drinking water of the Madrid Region (MR) (Central Spain) and determine possible estrogenic, androgenic, or thyroidal activities. Water samples were collected at different times from a number of supply points that received water from reservoirs or rivers. The sampling point with the highest concentration of the analysed substances (up to 30 compounds) was DW1 (1203 ng L -1 ). This sampling point receives water from a drinking water treatment plant (DWTP) that serves the population from the south of the MR with treated water from the Tajuña River. DW2 was the second point with the highest concentration of the analysed substances (1021 ng L -1 ). DW2 receives water from one of the reservoirs in the north of the MR. The highest daily concentrations detected corresponded to the flame retardant Tris (2-chloroethyl)phosphate (TCEP) (266.55 ng L -1 ) and to the nonylphenol diethoxylate (188.57 ng L -1 ) at points DW1 and DW4, respectively, both of which are supplied with treated river water. None of the water samples exhibited androgenic, oestrogenic, or thyroidal activities in in vitro assays based on cells stably transfected with the receptors of interest and luciferase as reporter gene. These results demonstrate that water quality in the MR is high and does not present a health risk for the population, although the concentrations of some substances justify the need for local authorities to continually monitor the presence of these contaminants in order to implement any corrective measures if necessary. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Systematic toxicological analysis: computer-assisted identification of poisons in biological materials.

PubMed

Stimpfl, Th; Demuth, W; Varmuza, K; Vycudilik, W

2003-06-05

A new software was developed to improve the chances for identification of a "general unknown" in complex biological materials. To achieve this goal, the total ion current chromatogram was simplified by filtering the acquired mass spectra via an automated subtraction procedure, which removed mass spectra originating from the sample matrix, as well as interfering substances from the extraction procedure. It could be shown that this tool emphasizes mass spectra of exceptional compounds, and therefore provides the forensic toxicologist with further evidence-even in cases where mass spectral data of the unknown compound are not available in "standard" spectral libraries.

Headspace gas chromatographic method for the measurement of difluoroethane in blood.

PubMed

Broussard, L A; Broussard, A; Pittman, T; Lafferty, D; Presley, L

2001-01-01

To develop a gas chromatographic assay for the analysis of difluoroethane, a volatile substance, in blood and to determine assay characteristics including linearity, limit of quantitation, precision, and specificity. Referral toxicology laboratory Difluoroethane, a colorless, odorless, highly flammable gas used as a refrigerant blend component and aerosol propellant, may be abused via inhalation. A headspace gas chromatographic procedure for the identification and quantitation of difluoroethane in blood is presented. A methanolic stock standard prepared from pure gaseous difluoroethane was used to prepare whole blood calibrators. Quantitation of difluoroethane was performed using a six-point calibration curve and an internal standard of 1-propanol. The assay is linear from 0 to 115 mg/L including a low calibrator at 4 mg/L, the limit of quantitation. Within-run coefficients of variation at mean concentrations of 13.8 mg/L and 38.5 mg/L were 5.8% and 6.8% respectively. Between-run coefficients of variation at mean concentrations of 15.9 mg/L and 45.7 mg/L were 13.4% and 9.8% respectively. Several volatile substances were tested as potential interfering compounds with propane having a retention time identical to that of difluoroethane. This method requires minimal sample preparation, is rapid and reproducible, can be modified for the quantitation of other volatiles, and could be automated using an automatic sampler/injector system.

Substance P stimulates endothelin 1 secretion via endothelin-converting enzyme 1 and promotes melanogenesis in human melanocytes.

PubMed

Park, Phil June; Lee, Tae Ryong; Cho, Eun-Gyung

2015-02-01

Substance P (SP) is a well-known neuropeptide implicated in the wound-healing process. The wound occasionally causes a pigmented scar. In the present study, we examined whether increased levels of SP affected melanogenesis. When human melanocytes were treated with SP, the melanin content increased and the pigmentation process accelerated in a dose-dependent manner. In addition to melanogenesis-related genes, the expression of neurokinin 1 receptor, endothelin 1 (EDN1), and EDN receptor type B (EDNRB) also increased at both the messenger RNA and protein levels. Interestingly, secreted EDN1 was observed in the melanocyte culture medium, and this phenomenon was significantly enhanced by SP treatment. Through knockdown experiments using small interfering RNAs (siRNAs), we confirmed that endothelin-converting enzyme 1 (ECE1), EDN1, and EDNRB were involved in SP-induced pigmentation and found that EDN1 secretion was affected by ECE1 and EDN1 siRNAs, but not by EDNRB siRNA. These findings indicate that ECE1 is essential for EDN1 secretion in melanocytes and that EDNRB functions downstream of secreted EDN1 to increase the cAMP levels and activate the melanogenesis-related phosphorylation cascade. This study provides in vitro evidence for a melanogenic function of SP in the skin and suggests that the SP-related signal is a potent target for regulating stress- or wound-induced pigmentation.

Performance evaluation of the QIAGEN EZ1 DSP Virus Kit with Abbott RealTime HIV-1, HBV and HCV assays.

PubMed

Schneider, George J; Kuper, Kevin G; Abravaya, Klara; Mullen, Carolyn R; Schmidt, Marion; Bunse-Grassmann, Astrid; Sprenger-Haussels, Markus

2009-04-01

Automated sample preparation systems must meet the demands of routine diagnostics laboratories with regard to performance characteristics and compatibility with downstream assays. In this study, the performance of QIAGEN EZ1 DSP Virus Kit on the BioRobot EZ1 DSP was evaluated in combination with the Abbott RealTime HIV-1, HCV, and HBV assays, followed by thermalcycling and detection on the Abbott m2000rt platform. The following performance characteristics were evaluated: linear range and precision, sensitivity, cross-contamination, effects of interfering substances and correlation. Linearity was observed within the tested ranges (for HIV-1: 2.0-6.0 log copies/ml, HCV: 1.3-6.9 log IU/ml, HBV: 1.6-7.6 log copies/ml). Excellent precision was obtained (inter-assay standard deviation for HIV-1: 0.06-0.17 log copies/ml (>2.17 log copies/ml), HCV: 0.05-0.11 log IU/ml (>2.09 log IU/ml), HBV: 0.03-0.07 log copies/ml (>2.55 log copies/ml)), with good sensitivity (95% hit rates for HIV-1: 50 copies/ml, HCV: 12.5 IU/ml, HBV: 10 IU/ml). No cross-contamination was observed, as well as no negative impact of elevated levels of various interfering substances. In addition, HCV and HBV viral load measurements after BioRobot EZ1 DSP extraction correlated well with those obtained after Abbott m2000sp extraction. This evaluation demonstrates that the QIAGEN EZ1 DSP Virus Kit provides an attractive solution for fully automated, low throughput sample preparation for use with the Abbott RealTime HIV-1, HCV, and HBV assays.

Factors interfering with the accuracy of five blood glucose meters used in Chinese hospitals.

PubMed

Lv, Hong; Zhang, Guo-jun; Kang, Xi-xiong; Yuan, Hui; Lv, Yan-wei; Wang, Wen-wen; Randall, Rollins

2013-09-01

The prevalence of diabetes is increasing in China. Glucose control is very important in diabetic patients. The aim of this study was to compare the accuracy of five glucose meters used in Chinese hospitals with a reference method, in the absence and presence of various factors that may interfere with the meters. Within-run precision of the meters was evaluated include Roche Accu-Chek Inform®, Abbott Precision PCx FreeStyle®, Bayer Contour®, J&J LifeScan SureStep Flexx®, and Nova Biomedical StatStrip®. The interference of hematocrit level, maltose, ascorbic acid, acetaminophen, galactose, dopamine, and uric acid were tested in three levels of blood glucose, namely low, medium, and high concentrations. Accuracy (bias) of the meters and analytical interference by various factors were evaluated by comparing results obtained in whole blood specimens with those in plasma samples of the whole blood specimens run on the reference method. Impact of oxygen tension on above five blood glucose meters was detected. Precision was acceptable and slightly different between meters. There were no significant differences in the measurements between the meters and the reference method. The hematocrit level significantly interfered with all meters, except StatStrip. Measurements were affected to varying degrees by different substances at different glucose levels, e.g. acetaminophen and ascorbic acid (Freestyle), maltose and galactose (FreeStyle, Accu-Chek), uric acid (FreeStyle, Bayer Contour), and dopamine (Bayer Contour). The measurements with the five meters showed a good correlation with the plasma hexokinase reference method, but most were affected by the hematocrit level. Some meters also showed marked interference by other substances. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

An experimental adaptive array to suppress weak interfering signals

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Walton, Eric K.; Gupta, Inder J.; Ksienski, Aharon A.; Ward, James

1988-01-01

An experimental adaptive antenna system to suppress weak interfering signals is described. It is a sidelobe canceller with two auxiliary elements. Modified feedback loops are used to control the array weights. The received signals are simulated in hardware for parameter control. Digital processing is used for algorithm implementation and performance evaluation. The experimental results are presented. They show that interfering signals as much as 10 dB below the thermal noise level in the main channel are suppressed by 20-30 dB. Such a system has potential application in suppressing the interference encountered in direct broadcast satellite communication systems.

Reasons for dropout from drug abuse treatment: symptoms, personality, and motivation.

PubMed

Ball, Samuel A; Carroll, Kathleen M; Canning-Ball, Monica; Rounsaville, Bruce J

2006-02-01

Previous research has identified risk factors for early attrition from substance abuse treatment, but has not assessed reasons for dropout from the client's perspective. Interview and self-report assessment data were collected from 24 clients who prematurely terminated outpatient treatment to evaluate their subjective reasons for dropping out and the association of these reasons with demographic and clinical variables. Items from scales indicating problems with client motivation or conflicts with program staff were the most commonly endorsed. The severity of participant's symptoms and logistical problems interfering with appointments were less commonly reported as reasons for dropping out. Demographic, substance abuse, and motivational stage indicators were infrequently associated with subjective reasons for dropout. In contrast, indicators of maladaptive personality functioning were strongly associated with many reasons for dropping out, especially concerns about privacy and boundary issues within the program. Results from this preliminary evaluation will guide the development of an instrument and intervention focused on dropout risk factors and treatment reengagement.

Impact of sodium lauryl sulfate in oral liquids on e-tongue measurements.

PubMed

Immohr, Laura Isabell; Turner, Roy; Pein-Hackelbusch, Miriam

2016-12-30

During development of oral liquid medicines taste assessment is often required to evaluate taste and taste masking. Electronic tongue analysis can provide taste assessment of medicinal products but should only be conducted with medicines that interact with the instrument without damaging the sensor membranes or interfering with their electrical output so that robust data is generated. To explore the impact of a substance deemed unsuitable for electronic tongue analysis the influence of the anionic surfactant sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), on the performance of the electronic tongue was conducted using electronic tongues equipped with self-developed PVC based sensors. The results showed a significant impact of SLS on all applied sensor types and an alteration of the sensor's sensitivity. Nevertheless, concentration dependent sensor responses could still be obtained and the sensor performance was not impacted negatively. Assessment of unsuitable substances should therefore be evaluated prior to performing electronic tongue analysis so that their impact is understood fully. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Determination of MDMA, MDEA and MDA in urine by high performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection.

PubMed

da Costa, José Luiz; da Matta Chasin, Alice Aparecida

2004-11-05

This paper describes the development and validation of analytical methodology for the determination of the use of MDMA, MDEA and MDA in urine. After a simple liquid extraction, the analyses were carried out on a high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) in an octadecyl column, with fluorescence detection. The mobile phase using a sodium dodecyl sulfate ion-pairing reagent allows good separation and efficiency. The method showed good linearity and precision. Recovery was between 85 and 102% and detection limits were 10, 15 and 20 ng/ml for MDA, MDMA and MDEA, respectively. No interfering substances were detected with fluorescence detection.

Evaluation of New Cleanup Agents for Analysis of Pesticide Residues in Tea.

PubMed

Ueda, Yuko; Honda, Katsuhisa

2017-01-01

We evaluated the effectiveness of new cleanup agents (S-NH 2 and S-Si) compared with other previously reported cleanup agents (octadecylsilane, graphitized carbon, aminopropyl and silica gel) for removal of interfering substances such as catechin and caffeine prior to analysis of pesticide residues in tea. S-NH 2 and S-Si were highly efficient in removal of catechin and caffeine, respectively. Recoveries of 80 pesticides using S-NH 2 and S-Si were tested, and more than 70% of pesticides showed recovery greater than 70%. These results indicate that S-NH 2 and S-Si agents will be useful for analysis of pesticide residues in tea.

Rapid, economical qualitative method for separation of aflatoxins B-1, B-2 & G-1, G-2 by dry column chromatography.

PubMed

Megalla, S E

1983-12-01

A good correlation of four components of aflatoxins was accomplished by using the dry column chromatography method. The decolorization process of interfering substances, by 0.01 N KOH and defatting the extract with petroleum ether yields a clean residue for DCC separation. It is clear that the dry column chromatography is a very simple and time-saving procedure for separation of aflatoxins. DCC columns are more economical than precoated 'thick layer' preparative plates and, in DCC, no large developing tanks need to be used. Hazards associated with the use of large volumes of flammable solvents are greatly reduced.

Télèmetre utilisant une diode laser à balayage continu en fréquence et un double interférométre

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hafidi, Abdeslam; Pfeiffer, Pierre; Meyrueis, Patrick

2018-04-01

This paper, "Télèmetre utilisant une diode laser à balayage continu en fréquence et un double interférométre," was presented as part of International Conference on Space Optics—ICSO 1997, held in Toulouse, France.

Bioassay for Nisin in Milk, Processed Cheese, Salad Dressings, Canned Tomatoes, and Liquid Egg Products

PubMed Central

Hakovirta, J.; Reunanen, J.; Saris, P. E. J.

2006-01-01

A sensitive nisin quantification bioassay was constructed, based on Lactococcus lactis chromosomally encoding the nisin regulatory proteins NisK and NisR and a plasmid with a green fluorescent protein (GFP) variant gfpuv gene under the control of the nisin-inducible nisA promoter. This strain, LAC275, was capable of transducing the signal from extracellular nisin into measurable GFPuv fluorescence through the NisRK signal transduction system. The LAC275 cells detected nisin concentrations of 10 pg/ml in culture supernatant, 0.2 ng/ml in milk, 3.6 ng/g in processed cheese, 1 ng/g in salad dressings and crushed, canned tomatoes, and 2 ng/g in liquid egg. This method was up to 1,000 times more sensitive than a previously described GFP-based nisin bioassay. This new assay made it possible to detect significantly smaller amounts of nisin than the presently most sensitive published nisin bioassay based on nisin-induced bioluminescence. The major advantage of this sensitivity was that foods could be extensively diluted prior to the assay, avoiding potential inhibitory and interfering substances present in most food products. PMID:16461641

Vitreous humor analysis for the detection of xenobiotics in forensic toxicology: a review.

PubMed

Bévalot, Fabien; Cartiser, Nathalie; Bottinelli, Charline; Fanton, Laurent; Guitton, Jérôme

2016-01-01

Vitreous humor (VH) is a gelatinous substance contained in the posterior chamber of the eye, playing a mechanical role in the eyeball. It has been the subject of numerous studies in various forensic applications, primarily for the assessment of postmortem interval and for postmortem chemical analysis. Since most of the xenobiotics present in the bloodstream are detected in VH after crossing the selective blood-retinal barrier, VH is an alternative matrix useful for forensic toxicology. VH analysis offers particular advantages over other biological matrices: it is less prone to postmortem redistribution, is easy to collect, has relatively few interfering compounds for the analytical process, and shows sample stability over time after death. The present study is an overview of VH physiology, drug transport and elimination. Collection, storage, analytical techniques and interpretation of results from qualitative and quantitative points of view are dealt with. The distribution of xenobiotics in VH samples is thus discussed and illustrated by a table reporting the concentrations of 106 drugs from more than 300 case reports. For this purpose, a survey was conducted of publications found in the MEDLINE database from 1969 through April 30, 2015.

Factors Affecting Gastrointestinal Absorption of Levothyroxine: A Review.

PubMed

Skelin, Marko; Lucijanić, Tomo; Amidžić Klarić, Daniela; Rešić, Arnes; Bakula, Miro; Liberati-Čizmek, Ana-Marija; Gharib, Hossein; Rahelić, Dario

2017-02-01

Levothyroxine (LT4) is a drug with a narrow therapeutic index, applied in small amounts (micrograms), which makes interactions in the absorption phase clinically significant. The main aim of this article was to review and present the latest information on factors that affect the gastrointestinal absorption of this drug. Relevant data were collected by using the MEDLINE, PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, Science Direct, and Scopus databases with the key words levothyroxine and absorption. Searches were not limited to specific publication types, study designs, dates, or languages. The reports were highly variable in the amount of information provided regarding study design and methods. Because of the heterogeneity of studies, no statistical analysis was performed. Many gastrointestinal disorders, such as celiac disease, atrophic gastritis, lactose intolerance, and Helicobacter pylori infection, may impede the absorption of levothyroxine. During treatment of these disorders, it is necessary to monitor serum thyroid-stimulating hormone and free T4 values to reduce the risk of developing iatrogenic hyperthyroidism. Soybeans and coffee have the greatest impact on the reduction of absorption, whereas vitamin C has the ability to increase it. Conversely, the effect of dietary fiber on the absorption of LT4 is not yet fully understood; further research is needed on this topic. A decrease in the absorption of LT4 is established and clinically significant when administered concomitantly with cholestyramine, colesevelam, lanthanum, calcium carbonate, calcium citrate, calcium acetate, iron sulfate, ciprofloxacin, aluminum hydroxide, sevelamer, or proton pump inhibitors. This effect should be taken into consideration when prescribing these drugs concomitantly with LT4. The effects of Giardia lamblia infection and the influence of orlistat, polystyrene sulfonate, raloxifene, and simethicone on absorption of LT4 have been poorly documented. For bariatric surgery, sucralfate and H 2 -antagonist interactions are not well founded or contradictory evidence is available regarding their existence; additional research should be conducted. The majority of the interactions are clinically significant. They are based on the LT4 adsorption on interfering substances in the digestive tract, as well as a consequently reduced amount of the drug available for absorption. These interactions can be avoided by separating the administration of LT4 and the interfering substance. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier HS Journals, Inc. All rights reserved.

The kinetics of the oxidation of ferrous iron in synthetic and natural waters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Davison, W.; Seed, G.

1983-01-01

The rate of oxidation of ferrous iron in a seasonally anoxic lake was measured on 39 occasions with respect to both depth and time. Sample disturbance was minimal as only oxygen had to be introduced to initiate the reaction. The data were consistent with the simple rate law for homogeneous chemical kinetics previously established for synthetic solutions. The rate constant for the oxidation reaction in lake water was indistinguishable from that measured in synthetic samples. It did not appear to be influenced by changes in the microbial populations or by changes in any particulate or soluble components in the water, including iron and manganese. Analysis of the errors inherent in the kinetic measurements showed that the estimation of pH was the major source of inaccuracy and that values of the rate constant determined by different workers could easily differ by a factor of six. The present data, together with a comprehensive survey of the literature, are used to suggest a 'universal' rate constant of ca. 2 × 10 13 M -2 atm -1 min -1 (range 1.5-3 × 10 13) in the rate law -d[Fe II]/dt = k[Fe II]pO 2 (OH-) 2 for natural freshwaters in the pH range 6.5-7.4. Discrepancies in the effects of ionic strength and interfering substances reported in the literature are highlighted. Generally substances have only been found to interfere at concentrations which far exceed those in most natural waters.

Satellite interference analysis and simulation using personal computers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kantak, Anil

1988-03-01

This report presents the complete analysis and formulas necessary to quantify the interference experienced by a generic satellite communications receiving station due to an interfering satellite. Both satellites, the desired as well as the interfering satellite, are considered to be in elliptical orbits. Formulas are developed for the satellite look angles and the satellite transmit angles generally related to the land mask of the receiving station site for both satellites. Formulas for considering Doppler effect due to the satellite motion as well as the Earth's rotation are developed. The effect of the interfering-satellite signal modulation and the Doppler effect on the power received are considered. The statistical formulation of the interference effect is presented in the form of a histogram of the interference to the desired signal power ratio. Finally, a computer program suitable for microcomputers such as IBM AT is provided with the flowchart, a sample run, results of the run, and the program code.

Satellite Interference Analysis and Simulation Using Personal Computers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kantak, Anil

1988-01-01

This report presents the complete analysis and formulas necessary to quantify the interference experienced by a generic satellite communications receiving station due to an interfering satellite. Both satellites, the desired as well as the interfering satellite, are considered to be in elliptical orbits. Formulas are developed for the satellite look angles and the satellite transmit angles generally related to the land mask of the receiving station site for both satellites. Formulas for considering Doppler effect due to the satellite motion as well as the Earth's rotation are developed. The effect of the interfering-satellite signal modulation and the Doppler effect on the power received are considered. The statistical formulation of the interference effect is presented in the form of a histogram of the interference to the desired signal power ratio. Finally, a computer program suitable for microcomputers such as IBM AT is provided with the flowchart, a sample run, results of the run, and the program code.

Generational Differences in Work-Family Conflict and Synergy

PubMed Central

Beutell, Nicholas J.

2013-01-01

This paper examines differences in work-family conflict and synergy among the four generational groups represented in the contemporary workforce: Generation Y Generation X, Baby Boomers, and Matures using data from the 2008 National Study of the Changing Workforce (n = 3,502). Significant generational differences were found for work-family conflict (work interfering with family and family interfering with work) but not for work-family synergy. Mental health and job pressure were the best predictors of work interfering with family conflict for each generational group. Work-family synergy presented a more complex picture. Work-family conflict and synergy were significantly related to job, marital, and life satisfaction. Implications and directions for future research are discussed. PMID:23783221

Generational differences in work-family conflict and synergy.

PubMed

Beutell, Nicholas J

2013-06-19

This paper examines differences in work-family conflict and synergy among the four generational groups represented in the contemporary workforce: Generation Y Generation X, Baby Boomers, and Matures using data from the 2008 National Study of the Changing Workforce (n = 3,502). Significant generational differences were found for work-family conflict (work interfering with family and family interfering with work) but not for work-family synergy. Mental health and job pressure were the best predictors of work interfering with family conflict for each generational group. Work-family synergy presented a more complex picture. Work-family conflict and synergy were significantly related to job, marital, and life satisfaction. Implications and directions for future research are discussed.

Rapid method for protein quantitation by Bradford assay after elimination of the interference of polysorbate 80.

PubMed

Cheng, Yongfeng; Wei, Haiming; Sun, Rui; Tian, Zhigang; Zheng, Xiaodong

2016-02-01

Bradford assay is one of the most common methods for measuring protein concentrations. However, some pharmaceutical excipients, such as detergents, interfere with Bradford assay even at low concentrations. Protein precipitation can be used to overcome sample incompatibility with protein quantitation. But the rate of protein recovery caused by acetone precipitation is only about 70%. In this study, we found that sucrose not only could increase the rate of protein recovery after 1 h acetone precipitation, but also did not interfere with Bradford assay. So we developed a method for rapid protein quantitation in protein drugs even if they contained interfering substances. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Esculin and its oligomer fractions inhibit adhesion and migration of U87 glioblastoma cells and in vitro angiogenesis.

PubMed

Mokdad-Bzeouich, Imen; Kovacic, Hervé; Ghedira, Kamel; Chebil, Latifa; Ghoul, Mohamed; Chekir-Ghedira, Leila; Luis, José

2016-03-01

Cancer metastasis is the major cause of cancer-related death. Chemoprevention is defined as the use of natural or synthetic substances to prevent cancer formation or cancer progress. In the present study, we investigate the antitumor activity of esculin and its oligomer fractions in U87 glioblastoma cells. We showed that esculin and its oligomers reduced U87 cell growth in a dose dependent manner. They also inhibited cell adhesion to collagen IV and vitronectin by interfering with the function of their respective receptors α2β1 and αvβ5 integrins. Furthermore, the tested samples were able to reduce migration of U87 cells towards another extracellular matrix fibronectin. Moreover, esculin and its oligomer fractions inhibited in vitro angiogenesis of endothelial cells (HMEC-1). In summary, our data provide the first evidence that esculin and its oligomer fractions are able to reduce adhesion, migration of glioblastoma cells and in vitro angiogenesis. Esculin and its oligomers may thus exert multi-target functions against cancer cells.

An effective protein extraction method for two-dimensional electrophoresis in the anticancer herb Andrographis paniculata Nees.

PubMed

Talei, Daryush; Valdiani, Alireza; Puad, Mohd Abdullah

2013-01-01

Proteomic analysis of plants relies on high yields of pure protein. In plants, protein extraction and purification present a great challenge due to accumulation of a large amount of interfering substances, including polysaccharides, polyphenols, and secondary metabolites. Therefore, it is necessary to modify the extraction protocols. A study was conducted to compare four protein extraction and precipitation methods for proteomic analysis. The results showed significant differences in protein content among the four methods. The chloroform-trichloroacetic acid-acetone method using 4-(2-hydroxyethyl)-1-piperazineethanesulfonic acid (HEPES) buffer provided the best results in terms of protein content, pellets, spot resolution, and intensity of unique spots detected. An overall of 83 qualitative or quantitative significant differential spots were found among the four methods. Based on the 2-DE gel map, the method is expected to benefit the development of high-level proteomic and biochemical studies of Andrographis paniculata, which may also be applied to other recalcitrant medicinal plant tissues. © 2013 International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.

Psychotropic drugs and bruxism.

PubMed

Falisi, Giovanni; Rastelli, Claudio; Panti, Fabrizio; Maglione, Horacio; Quezada Arcega, Raul

2014-10-01

Sleep and awake bruxism is defined as 'a parafunctional activity including clenching, bracing, gnashing, and grinding of the teeth'. Some evidence suggests that bruxism may be caused by, or associated with, alterations in the CNS neurotransmission. Several classes of psychotropic drugs interfering with CNS activity may potentially contribute to bruxism. Thus, the purpose of this study was to examine relevant peer-reviewed papers to identify and describe the various classes of psychotropic substances that may cause, exacerbate or reduce bruxism as the result of their pharmacological action in CNS neurons. A literature search from 1980 to the present was performed using PubMed database. The term 'bruxism' was used in association with 'psychotropic', 'dopamine (DA)', 'serotonin', 'histamine', 'antipsychotics', 'antidepressants', 'antihistaminergics' and 'stimulants'. Studies on the effects of DA agonists (Levo-DOPA, psychostimulants) and antagonists (antipsychotics) identified a central role of DA in the pathogenesis of pharmacologically induced bruxism. Important information from studies on drugs acting on serotonin neurotransmission (antidepressants) was recognized. Other mechanisms involving different neurotransmitters are emerging. This is the case of antihistaminergic drugs which may induce bruxism as a consequence of their disinhibitory effect on the serotonergic system.

Colorimetric measurement of carbohydrates in biological wastewater treatment systems: A critical evaluation.

PubMed

Le, Chencheng; Stuckey, David C

2016-05-01

Four laboratory preparations and three commercially available assay kits were tested on the same carbohydrate samples with the addition of 14 different interfering solutes typically found in wastewater treatment plants. This work shows that a wide variety of solutes can interfere with these assays. In addition, a comparative study on the use of these assays with different carbohydrate samples was also carried out, and the metachromatic response was clearly influenced by variation in sample composition. The carbohydrate content in the supernatant of a submerged anaerobic membrane bioreactor (SAMBR) was also measured using these assays, and the amount in the different supernatant samples, with and without a standard addition of glucose to the samples, showed substantial differences. We concluded that the carbohydrates present in wastewater measured using these colorimetric methods could be seriously under- or over-estimated. A new analytical method needs to be developed in order to better understand the biological transformations occurring in anaerobic digestion that leads to the production of soluble microbial products (SMPs) and extracellular polymeric substance (EPS). Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Retrospective Revaluation of Associative Retroactive Cue Interference

PubMed Central

Miguez, Gonzalo; Laborda, Mario A.; Miller, Ralph R.

2013-01-01

Two fear-conditioning experiments with rats assessed whether retrospective revaluation, which has been observed in cue competition (i.e., when compounded cues are followed with an outcome), can also be observed in retroactive cue interference (i.e., when different cues are reinforced in separate phases with the same outcome). Experiment 1 found that after inducing retroactive cue interference (i.e., X-outcome followed by A-outcome), nonreinforced presentations of the interfering cue (A) decreases interference with responding to the target cue (X), just as has been observed in retrospective revaluation experiments in cue competition. Using the opposite manipulation (i.e., adding reinforced presentations of A), Experiment 2 demonstrated that after inducing retroactive cue interference, additional reinforced presentations of the interfering cue (A) increases interference with responding to the target cue (X); alternatively stated, the amount of interference increases with the amount of training with the interfering cue. Thus, both types of retrospective revaluation occur in retroactive cue competition. The results are discussed in terms of the possibility that similar associative mechanisms underlie cue competition and cue interference. PMID:24142799

Utilisation des fibres optiques dans un interférométre stellalre: demonstration en laboratoire des possibilités d'imagerie, étude et conception de lignes à retard métrique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Delage, L.; Simohamed, L. M.; Reynaud, F.

2018-04-01

This paper, "Utilisation des fibres optiques dans un interférométre stellalre: demonstration en laboratoire des possibilités d'imagerie, étude et conception de lignes à retard métrique," was presented as part of International Conference on Space Optics—ICSO 1997, held in Toulouse, France.

Breath alcohol analyzer mistakes methanol poisoning for alcohol intoxication.

PubMed

Caravati, E Martin; Anderson, Kathleen T

2010-02-01

Breath alcohol analyzers are used to detect ethanol in motorists and others suspected of public intoxication. One concern is their ability to detect interfering substances that may falsely increase the ethanol reading. A 47-year-old-man was found in a public park, acting intoxicated. A breath analyzer test (Intoxilyzer 5000EN) measured 0.288 g/210 L breath ethanol, without an interferent noted. In the emergency department, the patient admitted to drinking HEET Gas-Line antifreeze, which contains 99% methanol. Two to three hours after ingestion, serum and urine toxicology screen results were negative for ethanol and multiple other substances. His serum methanol concentration was 589 mg/dL, serum osmolality 503 mOsm/kg, osmolar gap 193 mOsm/kg, and anion gap 17 mmol/L. The patient was treated with intravenous ethanol, fomepizole, and hemodialysis without complication. This is a unique clinical case of a breath alcohol analyzer reporting methanol as ethanol. Intoxilyzer devices have been shown to indicate some substances (acetone) as interferents in humans but not methanol. Increased serum concentrations of methanol can be reported as ethanol by a commonly used breath alcohol analyzer, which can result in a delayed diagnosis or misdiagnosis and subsequent methanol toxicity if antidotal treatment is not administered in a timely manner. Copyright (c) 2009 American College of Emergency Physicians. Published by Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

Plutonium and uranium determination in environmental samples: combined solvent extraction-liquid scintillation method.

PubMed

McDowell, W J; Farrar, D T; Billings, M R

1974-12-01

A method for the determination of uranium and plutonium by a combined high-resolution liquid scintillation-solvent extraction method is presented. Assuming a sample count equal to background count to be the detection limit, the lower detection limit for these and other alpha-emitting nuclides is 1.0 dpm with a Pyrex sample tube, 0.3 dpm with a quartz sample tube using present detector shielding or 0.02 d.p.m. with pulse-shape discrimination. Alpha-counting efficiency is 100%. With the counting data presented as an alpha-energy spectrum, an energy resolution of 0.2-0.3 MeV peak half-width and an energy identification to +/-0.1 MeV are possible. Thus, within these limits, identification and quantitative determination of a specific alpha-emitter, independent of chemical separation, are possible. The separation procedure allows greater than 98% recovery of uranium and plutonium from solution containing large amounts of iron and other interfering substances. In most cases uranium, even when present in 10(8)-fold molar ratio, may be quantitatively separated from plutonium without loss of the plutonium. Potential applications of this general analytical concept to other alpha-counting problems are noted. Special problems associated with the determination of plutonium in soil and water samples are discussed. Results of tests to determine the pulse-height and energy-resolution characteristics of several scintillators are presented. Construction of the high-resolution liquid scintillation detector is described.

[Determination of ethylene glycol in biological fluids--propylene glycol interferences].

PubMed

Gomółka, Ewa; Cudzich-Czop, Sylwia; Sulka, Adrianna

2013-01-01

Many laboratories in Poland do not use gas chromatography (GC) method for determination of ethylene glycol (EG) and methanol in blood of poisoned patients, they use non specific spectrophotometry methods. One of the interfering substances is propylene glycol (PG)--compound present in many medical and cosmetic products: drops, air freshens, disinfectants, electronic cigarettes and others. In Laboratory of Analytical Toxicology and Drug Monitoring in Krakow determination of EG is made by GC method. The method enables to distinguish and make resolution of (EG) and (PG) in biological samples. In the years 2011-2012 in several serum samples from diagnosed patients PG was present in concentration from several to higher than 100 mg/dL. The aim of the study was to estimate PG interferences of serum EG determination by spectrophotometry method. Serum samples containing PG and EG were used in the study. The samples were analyzed by two methods: GC and spectrophotometry. Results of serum samples spiked with PG with no EG analysed by spectrophotometry method were improper ("false positive"). The results were correlated to PG concentration in samples. Calculated cross-reactivity of PG in the method was 42%. Positive results of EG measured by spectrophotometry method must be confirmed by reference GC method. Spectrophotometry method shouldn't be used for diagnostics and monitoring of patients poisoned by EG.

Micro-scale method for liquid-chromatographic determination of chloramphenicol in serum.

PubMed

Petersdorf, S H; Raisys, V A; Opheim, K E

1979-07-01

We describe the use of "high-performance" liquid chromatography to measure chloramphenicol in as little as 25 microL of serum. Serum is treated to precipitate proteins with acetonitrile containing p-nitroacetanilide as an internal standard. Chloramphenicol is eluted with a mobile phase of methanol in pH 7.0 phosphate buffer (35/65 by vol). The drug is measured at 278 nm and simultaneously monitored at 254 nm; interfering substances are detected by examining the 278 nm/254 absorbance ratios. This method is sensitive to less than 0.5 mg/L and the standard curve is linear to at least 50 mg/L. Inter-day precision ranged between 3--6%. We encountered no interference from endogenous compounds or from other drugs we tested.

[Use of alpha-lipoic acid and omega-3 in postpartum pain treatment].

PubMed

Costantino, D; Guaraldi, C; Costantino, M; Bounous, V E

2015-10-01

Postpartum pain is a frequent condition that negatively affects women's quality of life, interferring with everyday life. Analgesic drugs and surgery are often contraindicated in pregnancy and during breast feeding. This review of the literature aims to evaluate the rational of the association of lipoic acid and omega-3 employ in the management of postpartum pain. Lipoic acid is a cofactor essential in mitochondrial metabolism with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. Lipoic acid has been shown to be effective in neuropatic pain treatment in patients with sciatica, carpal tunnel syndrome and diabetic neuropathy. Omega-3 are known for their anti-inflammatory and neurotrophic activity. The peripheral and central activity of both substances allows to act on neuroinflammation mechanisms thus reducing cronicization of pain and also determining a potential improvement of women's emotional status. The preliminary data here presented confirm the positive effect of this association on the treatment of postpartum perineal pain. The supplementation of lipoic acid in association with omega-3 seems effective and safe for the treatment of chronic postpartum pain, allowing a pathogenetic approach to neuroinflammation, thus reducing the consumption of analgesic drugs, often contraindicated during breast-feeding.

Assessment of the effects of the carbamazepine on the endogenous endocrine system of Daphnia magna.

PubMed

Oropesa, A L; Floro, A M; Palma, P

2016-09-01

In the present study, the endocrine activity of the antiepileptic pharmaceutical carbamazepine (CBZ) in the crustacean Daphnia magna was assessed. To assess the hormonal activity of the drug, we exposed maternal daphnids and embryos to environmental relevant concentrations of CBZ (ranging from 10 to 200 μg/L) and to mixtures of CBZ with fenoxycarb (FEN; 1 μg/L). Chronic exposure to CBZ significantly decreased the reproductive output and the number of molts of D. magna at 200 μg/L. This compound induced the production of male offspring (12 ± 1.7 %), in a non-concentration-dependent manner, acting as a weak juvenile hormone analog. Results showed that this substance, at tested concentrations, did not antagonize the juvenoid action of FEN. Further, CBZ has shown to be toxic to daphnid embryos through maternal exposure interfering with their normal gastrulation and organogenesis stages but not producing direct embryo toxicity. These findings suggest that CBZ could act as an endocrine disruptor in D. magna as it decreases the reproductive output, interferes with sex determination, and causes development abnormality in offspring. Therefore, CBZ could directly affect the population sustainability.

Identification of adequate vehicles to carry nerve regeneration inducers using tubulisation.

PubMed

do Nascimento-Elias, Adriana Helena; Fresnesdas, Bruno César; Schiavoni, Maria Cristina Lopes; de Almeida, Natália Fernanda Gaspar; Santos, Ana Paula; de Oliveira Ramos, Jean; Junior, Wilson Marques; Barreira, Amilton Antunes

2012-08-14

Axonal regeneration depends on many factors, such as the type of injury and repair, age, distance from the cell body and distance of the denervated muscle, loss of surrounding tissue and the type of injured nerve. Experimental models use tubulisation with a silicone tube to research regenerative factors and substances to induce regeneration. Agarose, collagen and DMEM (Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium) can be used as vehicles. In this study, we compared the ability of these vehicles to induce rat sciatic nerve regeneration with the intent of finding the least active or inert substance. The experiment used 47 female Wistar rats, which were divided into four experimental groups (agarose 4%, agarose 0.4%, collagen, DMEM) and one normal control group. The right sciatic nerve was exposed, and an incision was made that created a 10 mm gap between the distal and proximal stumps. A silicone tube was grafted onto each stump, and the tubes were filled with the respective media. After 70 days, the sciatic nerve was removed. We evaluated the formation of a regeneration cable, nerve fibre growth, and the functional viability of the regenerated fibres. Comparison among the three vehicles showed that 0.4% agarose gels had almost no effect on provoking the regeneration of peripheral nerves and that 4% agarose gels completely prevented fibre growth. The others substances were associated with profuse nerve fibre growth. In the appropriate concentration, agarose gel may be an important vehicle for testing factors that induce regeneration without interfering with nerve growth.

Optimizations for optical velocity measurements in narrow gaps

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schlüßler, Raimund; Blechschmidt, Christian; Czarske, Jürgen; Fischer, Andreas

2013-09-01

Measuring the flow velocity in small gaps or near a surface with a nonintrusive optical measurement technique is a challenging measurement task, as disturbing light reflections from the surface appear. However, these measurements are important, e.g., in order to understand and to design the leakage flow in the tip gap between the rotor blade end face and the housing of a turbomachine. Hence, methods to reduce the interfering light power and to correct measurement errors caused by it need to be developed and verified. Different alternatives of minimizing the interfering light power for optical flow measurements in small gaps are presented. By optimizing the beam shape of the applied illumination beam using a numerical diffraction simulation, the interfering light power is reduced by up to a factor of 100. In combination with a decrease of the reflection coefficient of the rotor blade surface, an additional reduction of the interfering light power below the used scattered light power is possible. Furthermore, a correction algorithm to decrease the measurement uncertainty of disturbed measurements is derived. These improvements enable optical three-dimensional three-component flow velocity measurements in submillimeter gaps or near a surface.

Optimization of extraction procedures for ecotoxicity analyses: Use of TNT contaminated soil as a model

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

Sunahara, G.I.; Renoux, A.Y.; Dodard, S.

1995-12-31

The environmental impact of energetic substances (TNT, RDX, GAP, NC) in soil is being examined using ecotoxicity bioassays. An extraction method was characterized to optimize bioassay assessment of TNT toxicity in different soil types. Using the Microtox{trademark} (Photobacterium phosphoreum) assay and non-extracted samples, TNT was most acutely toxic (IC{sub 50} = 1--9 PPM) followed by RDX and GAP; NC did not show obvious toxicity (probably due to solubility limitations). TNT (in 0.25% DMSO) yielded an IC{sub 50} 0.98 + 0.10 (SD) ppm. The 96h-EC{sub 50} (Selenastrum capricornutum growth inhibition) of TNT (1. 1 ppm) was higher than GAP and RDX;more » NC was not apparently toxic (probably due to solubility limitations). Soil samples (sand or a silt-sand mix) were spiked with either 2,000 or 20,000 mg TNT/kg soil, and were adjusted to 20% moisture. Samples were later mixed with acetonitrile, sonicated, and then treated with CaCl{sub 2} before filtration, HPLC and ecotoxicity analyses. Results indicated that: the recovery of TNT from soil (97.51% {+-} 2.78) was independent of the type of soil or moisture content; CaCl{sub 2} interfered with TNT toxicity and acetonitrile extracts could not be used directly for algal testing. When TNT extracts were diluted to fixed concentrations, similar TNT-induced ecotoxicities were generally observed and suggested that, apart from the expected effects of TNT concentrations in the soil, the soil texture and the moisture effects were minimal. The extraction procedure permits HPLC analyses as well as ecotoxicity testing and minimizes secondary soil matrix effects. Studies will be conducted to study the toxic effects of other energetic substances present in soil using this approach.« less

Ketamine suppresses the substance P-induced production of IL-6 and IL-8 by human U373MG glioblastoma/astrocytoma cells.

PubMed

Yamaguchi, Keisuke; Kumakura, Seiichiro; Murakami, Taisuke; Someya, Akimasa; Inada, Eiichi; Nagaoka, Isao

2017-03-01

The neuropeptide substance P (SP) is an important mediator of neurogenic inflammation within the central and peripheral nervous systems. SP has been shown to induce the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines implicated in the pathogenesis of several disorders of the human brain via the neurokinin-1 receptor (NK-1R). Ketamine, an intravenous anesthetic agent, functions as a competitive antagonist of the excitatory neurotransmission N-methyl-D‑aspartate (NMDA) receptor, and also antagonizes the NK-1R by interfering with the binding of SP. In the present study, we investigated the anti-inflammatory effects of ketamine on the SP-induced activation of a human astrocytoma cell line, U373MG, which expresses high levels of NK-1R. The results from our experiments indicated that ketamine suppressed the production of interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-8 by the U373MG cells. Furthermore, ketamine inhibited the SP-induced activation of extracellular signal‑regulated kinase (ERK)1/2, p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB). Taken together, these observations suggest that ketamine may suppress the SP-induced activation (IL-6 and IL-8 production) of U373MG cells by inhibiting the phosphorylation of signaling molecules (namely ERK1/2, p38 MAPK and NF-κB), thereby exerting anti‑inflammatory effects. Thus, ketamine may modulate SP-induced inflammatory responses by NK-1R‑expressing cells through the suppression of signaling molecules (such as ERK1/2, p38 MAPK and NF-κB).

Neutral endopeptidase regulates neurogenic inflammatory responses induced by stimulation of human oral keratinocytes with bacterial lipopolysaccharide and nicotine.

PubMed

Nakata, Motoki; Awano, Shuji; Kinoshita, Naomasa; Yoshida, Akihiro; Ansai, Toshihiro

2013-10-01

Neutral endopeptidase (NEP) is present on various epithelial cells and inactivates numerous physiologically active peptides. Neutral endopeptidase may regulate proinflammatory signals in oral mucosal epithelium. However, the function of NEP in oral mucosal epithelium is unknown. The present study investigated the action of NEP upon proinflammatory signals on human oral keratinocytes and the influence of endothelin-converting enzyme (ECE)-1, an enzyme similar to NEP, on the functions of NEP. Oral keratinocytes were cultured in medium containing inflammatory inducers [lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and nicotine], NEP inhibitors, and ECE-1/NEP inhibitors, either alone or in combination. The concentrations of substance P (SP) and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) were measured in the supernatant. Additionally, the concentrations of SP and IL-1β were measured in the supernatant of cells incubated with LPS or nicotine after transfection with NEP small interfering RNA (siRNA). The concentrations of SP and IL-1β were significantly increased in cells incubated with NEP inhibitors and, to a lesser extent, in cells incubated with ECE-1/NEP inhibitors, compared with controls (cells incubated with LPS or nicotine alone). The concentrations of SP and IL-1β in cells transfected with NEP siRNA were significantly augmented compared with controls. In conclusion, the present study demonstrated that NEP down-regulated the levels of SP and IL-1β produced from human oral keratinocytes, although ECE-1 may be partly related to the down-regulation. © 2013 Eur J Oral Sci.

Platelet receptors as therapeutic targets: Past, present and future.

PubMed

Jamasbi, Janina; Ayabe, Keng; Goto, Shinya; Nieswandt, Bernhard; Peter, Karlheinz; Siess, Wolfgang

2017-06-28

Anti-platelet drugs reduce arterial thrombosis after plaque rupture and erosion, prevent stent thrombosis and are used to prevent and treat myocardial infarction and ischaemic stroke. Some of them may also be helpful in treating less frequent diseases such as thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura. The present concise review aims to cover current and future developments of anti-platelet drugs interfering with the interaction of von Willebrand factor (VWF) with glycoprotein (GP) Ibα, and directed against GPVI, GPIIb/IIIa (integrin α IIb β 3 ), the thrombin receptor PAR-1, and the ADP receptor P2Y 12 . The high expectations of having novel antiplatelet drugs which selectively inhibit arterial thrombosis without interfering with normal haemostasis could possibly be met in the near future.

False Elevation of the Blood Tacrolimus Concentration, as Assessed by an Affinity Column-mediated Immunoassay (ACMIA), Led to Acute T Cell-mediated Rejection after Kidney Transplantation.

PubMed

Kono, Momoko; Hasegawa, Jumpei; Ogawa, Hina; Yoshikawa, Kanae; Ishiwatari, Ayumi; Wakai, Sachiko; Tanabe, Kazunari; Shirakawa, Hiroki

2018-05-01

Tacrolimus is the most commonly used immunosuppressant. Because of its narrow therapeutic range, it is necessary to frequently monitor its concentration. We report the case of a 25-year-old man who underwent kidney transplantation whose tacrolimus concentrations, as measured by an affinity column-mediated immunoassay, were falsely elevated. As we reduced the dose of tacrolimus, the recipient developed T cell-mediated rejection. Using the same blood samples, an enzyme-multiplied immunoassay technique showed that the patient's levels of tacrolimus were extremely low. A further examination indicated that the false increase in the tacrolimus concentration was likely due to an unknown interfering substance. We administered methylprednisolone and antithymocyte-globulin. The patient's serum creatinine level decreased and remained stable after these treatments.

Improved micromethod for mezlocillin quantitation in serum and urine by high-pressure liquid chromatography.

PubMed Central

Fiore, D; Auger, F A; Drusano, G L; Dandu, V R; Lesko, L J

1984-01-01

A rapid, sensitive, and specific method of analysis for mezlocillin in serum and urine by high-pressure liquid chromatography is described. A solid-phase extraction column was used to remove interfering substances from samples before chromatography. Quantitation included the use of an internal standard, nafcillin. Mezlocillin was chromatographed with a phosphate buffer-acetonitrile (73:27) mobile phase and a C-18 reverse-phase column and detected at a wavelength of 220 nm. The assay had a sensitivity of 1.6 micrograms/ml and a linearity of up to 600 micrograms/ml and 16 mg/ml in serum and urine, respectively, with only 0.1 ml of sample. The interday and intraday coefficients of variation for replicate analyses of spiked serum and urine specimens were less than 6.5%. PMID:6517560

A Preliminary Study Examining Women's Physical Health and Nonmedical Prescription Opioid Use in a Recovering Framework

PubMed Central

Leukefeld, Carl G.

2017-01-01

Abstract Background: There is a growing need for research on women recovering from nonmedical prescription opioid use. A paradigm shift is to focus on wellness and factors that support, rather than hinder, recovering women. For example, although physical health is impacted by nonmedical prescription opioid use, improved health may be a strength-based factor among recovering women. The aim of this preliminary study was to examine physical health in a recovering framework as women begin recovering from nonmedical prescription opiate use. Materials and Methods: This study conducted secondary data analysis using self-report data from Kentucky's Targeted Assessment Program (TAP). TAP assesses and provides pretreatment for problems impeding work or interfering with parental responsibilities. Data included 1247 adult women reporting a history of nonmedical prescription opioid use and receiving pretreatment. Bivariate and logistic regression analyses examined whether physical health and access to health services at baseline were associated with substance-related behavior change upon completion of pretreatment. Results: Women reporting better physical health and fewer days with no activities due to health barriers were more likely to engage in pretreatment substance-related behavior change [χ2(8) = 34.6, p < 0.05]. However, ∼40% of women reported barriers in accessing healthcare. Conclusion: Using a recovering framework, women's physical health, as expected, is associated with engagement in pretreatment substance-related behavior change. Ongoing service coordination with practitioners and medical providers should be incorporated into care to meet the need. Future research should continue to examine factors that support recovering women, using a recovering framework. PMID:28072916

A Preliminary Study Examining Women's Physical Health and Nonmedical Prescription Opioid Use in a Recovering Framework.

PubMed

Marks, Katherine R; Leukefeld, Carl G

2017-03-01

There is a growing need for research on women recovering from nonmedical prescription opioid use. A paradigm shift is to focus on wellness and factors that support, rather than hinder, recovering women. For example, although physical health is impacted by nonmedical prescription opioid use, improved health may be a strength-based factor among recovering women. The aim of this preliminary study was to examine physical health in a recovering framework as women begin recovering from nonmedical prescription opiate use. This study conducted secondary data analysis using self-report data from Kentucky's Targeted Assessment Program (TAP). TAP assesses and provides pretreatment for problems impeding work or interfering with parental responsibilities. Data included 1247 adult women reporting a history of nonmedical prescription opioid use and receiving pretreatment. Bivariate and logistic regression analyses examined whether physical health and access to health services at baseline were associated with substance-related behavior change upon completion of pretreatment. Women reporting better physical health and fewer days with no activities due to health barriers were more likely to engage in pretreatment substance-related behavior change [χ 2 (8)  = 34.6, p < 0.05]. However, ∼40% of women reported barriers in accessing healthcare. Using a recovering framework, women's physical health, as expected, is associated with engagement in pretreatment substance-related behavior change. Ongoing service coordination with practitioners and medical providers should be incorporated into care to meet the need. Future research should continue to examine factors that support recovering women, using a recovering framework.

Maternal control and early child dysregulation: Moderating roles of ethnicity and child delay status.

PubMed

Caplan, B; Baker, B L

2017-02-01

Maternal controlling behaviour has been found to influence child development, particularly in behavioural and emotional regulation. Given the higher rates of interfering parent control found in mothers of children with developmental delays (DD) and Latina mothers, their children could be at increased risk for behavioural and emotional dysregulation. While studies generally support this increased risk for children with DD, findings for Latino children are mixed and often attributed to cultural models of child rearing. The present study sought to determine the moderating roles of child DD and mother ethnicity in determining the relationships between two types of parent control (supportive directiveness and interference) and child dysregulation over time. The present study, involving 178 3-year old children with DD (n = 80) or typical development (n = 98), examined observed parent control (directive versus interfering) of Latina and Anglo mothers as it relates to change in preschool child dysregulation over 2 years. Interfering parent control was greater for children with DD and also for Latino mothers. Supportive directive parenting generally related to relatively greater decline in child behaviour and emotion dysregulation over time, while interfering parenting generally related to less decline in child behaviour dysregulation over time. In Anglo but not Latino families, these relationships tended to vary as a function of child disability. Parent directives that support, rather than deter, ongoing child activity may promote positive regulatory development. These results particularly hold for children with DD and Latino families, and have implications for parenting practices and intervention. © 2016 MENCAP and International Association of the Scientific Study of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Effect of Collagen Matrix Saturation on the Surface Free Energy of Dentin using Different Agents.

PubMed

de Almeida, Leopoldina de Fátima Dantas; Souza, Samilly Evangelista; Sampaio, Aline Araújo; Cavalcanti, Yuri Wanderley; da Silva, Wander José; Del Bel Cur, Altair A; Hebling, Josimeri

2015-07-01

The surface free energy of conditioned-dentin is one of the factors that interfere with monomeric infiltration of the interfibrillar spaces. Saturation of the tooth matrix with different substances may modulate this energy and, consequently, the wettability of the dentin. To evaluate the influence of different substances used to saturate conditioned-dentin on surface free energy (SFE) of this substrate. Dentin blocks (4 × 7 × 1 mm, n = 6/ group), obtained from the roots of bovine incisors, were etched using phosphoric acid for 15 seconds, rinsed and gently dried. The surfaces were treated for 60 seconds with: ultra-purified water (H20-control); ethanol (EtOH), acetone (ACT), chlorhexidine (CHX), ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA); or sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl). The tooth surfaces were once again dried with absorbent paper and prepared for SFE evaluation using three standards: water, formamide and bromonaphthalene. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Dunnet's tests (a = 0.05) were applied to the data. Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid was the only substance that caused a change to the contact angle for the standards water and formamide, while only EtOH influenced the angles formed between formamide and the dentin surface. None of the substances exerted a significant effect for bromonaphtha-lene. In comparison to the control, only EDTA and NaOCl altered both polar components of the SFE. Total SFE was increased by saturation of the collagen matrix by EDTA and reduced when NaOCl was used. Saturation of the collagen matrix by EDTA and EtOH changed the surface free energy of the dentin. In addition, the use of NaOCl negatively interfered with the properties evaluated. The increase of surface free energy and wettability of the dentin surface would allow higher penetration of the the adhesive system, which would be of importance to the clinical success of resin-dentin union.

One-step synthesis of fluorescent carbon dots for sensitive and selective detection of hyperin.

PubMed

Liu, Lizhen; Mi, Zhi; Hu, Qin; Li, Caiqing; Li, Xiaohua; Feng, Feng

2018-08-15

In this article, we presented a new rapid, sensitive and selective method for the determination of hyperin (Hyp) based on the fluorescence quenching of fluorescent carbon dots (CDs). The CDs were prepared by simply mixing an aqueous solution of citric acid with diphosphorus pentoxide. This one-step synthetic route is fast and simple with neither high temperature nor complicated synthesis steps is involved. When Hyp was added to CDs solution, the fluorescence intensity of the CDs significantly decreased. The CDs display high selectivity for Hyp over many potentially interfering substances. Under the optimized conditions, a good linear relationship between the fluorescence intensity ratio F o /F and the concentration of Hyp is obtained in a range of 0.22-55 µM with a detection limit (S/N = 3) of 78.3 nM. The method was successfully applied for the determination of Hyp in fufangmuji granules and human serum samples with recoveries in a range of 93.3-107.0%. This paper highlights the usefulness of CDs as an effective fluorescence probe for the Hyp detection due to its easy preparation, low-cost, excellent photostability, favorable biocompatibility and low cytotoxicity. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Quantitative determination of methamphetamine in oral fluid by liquid-liquid extraction and gas chromatography/mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Bahmanabadi, L; Akhgari, M; Jokar, F; Sadeghi, H B

2017-02-01

Methamphetamine abuse is one of the most medical and social problems many countries face. In spite of the ban on the use of methamphetamine, it is widely available in Iran's drug black market. There are many analytical methods for the detection of methamphetamine in biological specimen. Oral fluid has become a popular specimen to test for the presence of methamphetamine. The purpose of the present study was to develop a method for the extraction and detection of methamphetamine in oral fluid samples using liquid-liquid extraction (LLE) and gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) methods. An analytical study was designed in that blank and 50 authentic oral fluid samples were collected to be first extracted by LLE and subsequently analysed by GC/MS. The method was fully validated and showed an excellent intra- and inter-assay precision (reflex sympathetic dystrophy ˂ 10%) for external quality control samples. Recovery with LLE methods was 96%. Limit of detection and limit of quantitation were 5 and 15 ng/mL, respectively. The method showed high selectivity, no additional peak due to interfering substances in samples was observed. The introduced method was sensitive, accurate and precise enough for the extraction of methamphetamine from oral fluid samples in forensic toxicology laboratories.

Wind interference effect on an octagonal plan shaped tall building due to square plan shaped tall buildings

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kar, Rony; Dalui, Sujit Kumar

2016-03-01

The variation of pressure at the faces of the octagonal plan shaped tall building due to interference of three square plan shaped tall building of same height is analysed by computational fluid dynamics module, namely ANSYS CFX for 0° wind incidence angle only. All the buildings are closely spaced (distance between two buildings varies from 0.4 h to 2 h, where h is the height of the building). Different cases depending upon the various positions of the square plan shaped buildings are analysed and compared with the octagonal plan shaped building in isolated condition. The comparison is presented in the form of interference factors (IF) and IF contours. Abnormal pressure distribution is observed in some cases. Shielding and channelling effect on the octagonal plan shaped building due to the presence of the interfering buildings are also noted. In the interfering condition the pressure distribution at the faces of the octagonal plan shaped building is not predictable. As the distance between the principal octagonal plan shaped building and the third square plan shaped interfering building increases the behaviour of faces becomes more systematic. The coefficient of pressure (C p) for each face of the octagonal plan shaped building in each interfering case can be easily found if we multiply the IF with the C p in the isolated case.

Tryptophan and kynurenine determination in human hair by liquid chromatography.

PubMed

Dario, Michelli F; Freire, Thamires Batello; Pinto, Claudinéia Aparecida Sales de Oliveira; Prado, María Segunda Aurora; Baby, André R; Velasco, Maria Valéria R

2017-10-15

Tryptophan, an amino acid found in hair proteinaceous structure is used as a marker of hair photodegradation. Also, protein loss caused by several chemical/physical treatments can be inferred by tryptophan quantification. Kynurenine is a photo-oxidation product of tryptophan, expected to be detected when hair is exposed mainly to UVB (290-320nm) radiation range. Tryptophan from hair is usually quantified directly as a solid or after alkaline hydrolysis, spectrofluorimetrically. However, these types of measure are not sufficiently specific and present several interfering substances. Thus, this work aimed to propose a quantification method for both tryptophan and kynurenine in hair samples, after alkali hydrolysis process, by using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with fluorimetric and UV detection. The tryptophan and kynurenine quantification method was developed and validated. Black, white, bleached and dyed (blond and auburn) hair tresses were used in this study. Tryptophan and kynurenine were separated within ∼9min by HPLC. Both black and white virgin hair samples presented similar concentrations of tryptophan, while bleaching caused a reduction in the tryptophan content as well as dyeing process. Unexpectedly, UV/vis radiation did not promote significantly the conversion of tryptophan into its photo-oxidation product and consequently, kynurenine was not detected. Thus, this works presented an acceptable method for quantification of tryptophan and its photooxidation metabolite kynurenine in hair samples. Also, the results indicated that bleaching and dyeing processes promoted protein/amino acids loss but tryptophan is not extensively degraded in human hair by solar radiation. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

[Impairment of the immune system caused by drugs].

PubMed

Pichler, W J

1987-03-21

The immune response and the ensuing inflammation relies on a complex interaction of cells and mediators. Various drugs can interfere with individual steps of the immune response, and in so doing they often imitate regulatory mechanisms of the immune system itself. The immunosuppressive effect of corticosteroids is based on changes in cell migration, reduced responsiveness of monocytes/macrophages to various stimuli and diminished production of interleukin-2. Cyclosporin A appears to block prolactin binding to prolactin receptors on lymphocytes, thus interfering with the immunostimulatory effect of prolactin. It also appears to have a Calmodulin antagonism and might thus block lymphokine production. Anticoagulants may block delayed type hypersensitivity reactions, since activation of the coagulation cascade is involved in this type of immune reaction. Attempts to use calcium channel blockers as immunosuppressive agents, or to take advantage of the immunoregulatory effects of adrenergic substances/blockers or other neurotransmitters, are of experimental value only.

RNA interference for performance enhancement and detection in doping control.

PubMed

Kohler, Maxie; Schänzer, Wilhelm; Thevis, Mario

2011-10-01

RNA interference represents a comparably new route of regulating and manipulating specific gene expression. Promising results were obtained in experimental therapies aim at the treatment of different kinds of diseases including cancer, diabetes mellitus or Dychenne muscular dystrophy. While studies on down-regulation efficiency are often performed by analyzing the regulated protein, the direct detection of small, interfering RNA molecules and antisense oligonucleotides is of great interest for the investigation of the metabolism and degradation and also for the detection of a putative misuse of these molecules in sports. Myostatin down-regulation was shown to result in increased performance and muscle growth and the regulation of several other proteins could be relevant for performance enhancement. This mini-review summarizes current approaches for the mass spectrometric analysis of siRNA and antisense oligonucleotides from biological matrices and the available data on biodistribution, metabolism, and half-life of relevant substances are discussed. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Altered expression of the caffeine synthase gene in a naturally caffeine-free mutant of Coffea arabica.

PubMed

Maluf, Mirian Perez; da Silva, Carla Cristina; de Oliveira, Michelle de Paula Abreu; Tavares, Aline Gomes; Silvarolla, Maria Bernadete; Guerreiro, Oliveiro

2009-10-01

In this work, we studied the biosynthesis of caffeine by examining the expression of genes involved in this biosynthetic pathway in coffee fruits containing normal or low levels of this substance. The amplification of gene-specific transcripts during fruit development revealed that low-caffeine fruits had a lower expression of the theobromine synthase and caffeine synthase genes and also contained an extra transcript of the caffeine synthase gene. This extra transcript contained only part of exon 1 and all of exon 3. The sequence of the mutant caffeine synthase gene revealed the substitution of isoleucine for valine in the enzyme active site that probably interfered with enzymatic activity. These findings indicate that the absence of caffeine in these mutants probably resulted from a combination of transcriptional regulation and the presence of mutations in the caffeine synthase amino acid sequence.

Altered expression of the caffeine synthase gene in a naturally caffeine-free mutant of Coffea arabica

PubMed Central

2009-01-01

In this work, we studied the biosynthesis of caffeine by examining the expression of genes involved in this biosynthetic pathway in coffee fruits containing normal or low levels of this substance. The amplification of gene-specific transcripts during fruit development revealed that low-caffeine fruits had a lower expression of the theobromine synthase and caffeine synthase genes and also contained an extra transcript of the caffeine synthase gene. This extra transcript contained only part of exon 1 and all of exon 3. The sequence of the mutant caffeine synthase gene revealed the substitution of isoleucine for valine in the enzyme active site that probably interfered with enzymatic activity. These findings indicate that the absence of caffeine in these mutants probably resulted from a combination of transcriptional regulation and the presence of mutations in the caffeine synthase amino acid sequence. PMID:21637458

Simple assay for staphylococcal enterotoxins A, B, and C: modification of enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

PubMed Central

Stiffler-Rosenberg, G; Fey, H

1978-01-01

The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) introduced for the detection of staphylococcal enterotoxins by Saunders et al., Simon and Terplan, and ourselves has proved to be a simple, reliable, and sensitive test. A new modification is described that uses polystyrene balls (diameter, 6 mm) coated individually with antibody against one of the toxins A, B, or C. In a single tube, 20 ml of the food extract was incubated with the three balls differently stained, which were then each tested for the uptake of enterotoxin by a competitive ELISA. A concentration of 0.1 ng or less of enterotoxin per ml can be measured, making tedious concentration procedures of the extracts superfluous. Culture supernatants and extracts from foods artificially or naturally contaminated with toxin were successfully examined. Cross-reactions did not occur, and nonspecific interfering substances did not create serious problems. PMID:365877

Powerful workhorses for antimicrobial peptide expression and characterization.

PubMed

Li, Chun; Blencke, Hans-Matti; Paulsen, Victoria; Haug, Tor; Stensvåg, Klara

2010-01-01

Discovery of antimicrobial peptides (AMP) is to a large extent based on screening of fractions of natural samples in bacterial growth inhibition assays. However, the use of bacteria is not limited to screening for antimicrobial substances. In later steps, bioengineered "bugs" can be applied to both production and characterization of AMPs. Here we describe the idea to use genetically modified Escherichia coli strains for both these purposes. This approach allowed us to investigate SpStrongylocins 1 and 2 from the purple sea urchin Strongylocentrotus purpuratus only based on sequence information from a cDNA library and without previous direct isolation or chemical synthesis of these peptides. The recombinant peptides are proved active against all bacterial strains tested. An assay based on a recombinant E. coli sensor strain expressing insect luciferase, revealed that SpStrongylocins are not interfering with membrane integrity and are therefore likely to have intracellular targets. © 2010 Landes Bioscience

Low potential detection of indole-3-acetic acid based on the peroxidase-like activity of hemin/reduced graphene oxide nanocomposite.

PubMed

Liu, Fengping; Tang, Jiaqian; Xu, Jun; Shu, Yun; Xu, Qin; Wang, Hongmei; Hu, Xiaoya

2016-12-15

An amperometric sensor was firstly established for the detection of indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) at low potential based on the hemin/reduced graphene oxide (hemin/rGO) composite. The hemin/rGO nanocomposite was prepared by a simple and facile hydrothermal method without using any reducing agent. It exhibited peroxidase-like activity for the catalytic oxidation of IAA in the presence of oxygen. The consumption of oxygen has a linear relationship with the concentration of IAA in the range from 0.1 to 43μM and from 43 to 183μM. The detection limit was down to 0.074μM. This sensor was unaffected by many interfering substances and stable over time. Such work broadened the application of hemin/rGO and provided a new method for IAA detection. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Development and Validation of a Lateral Flow Immunoassay Test Kit for Dual Detection of Casein and β-Lactoglobulin Residues.

PubMed

Masiri, Jongkit; Barrios-Lopez, Brianda; Benoit, Lora; Tamayo, Joshua; Day, Jeffrey; Nadala, Cesar; Sung, Shao-Lei; Samadpour, Mansour

2016-03-01

Allergies to cow's milk are very common and can present as life-threatening anaphylaxis. Consequently, food labeling legislation mandates that foods containing milk residues, including casein and/or β-lactoglobulin, provide an indication of such on the product label. Because contamination with either component independent of the other can occur during food manufacturing, effective allergen management measures for containment of milk residues necessitates the use of dual screening methods. To assist the food industry in improving food safety practices, we have developed a rapid lateral flow immunoassay test kit that reliably reports both residues down to 0.01 μg per swab and 0.1 ppm of protein for foods. The assay utilizes both sandwich and competitive format test lines and is specific for bovine milk residues. Selectivity testing using a panel of matrices with potentially interfering substances, including commonly used sanitizing agents, indicated reduction in the limit of detection by one-to fourfold. With food, residues were easily detected in all cow's milk-based foods tested, but goat and sheep milk residues were not detected. Specificity analysis revealed no cross-reactivity with common commodities, with the exception of kidney beans when present at high concentrations (> 1%). The development of a highly sensitive and rapid test method capable of detecting trace amounts of casein and/or β-lactoglobulin should aid food manufacturers and regulatory agencies in monitoring for milk allergens in environmental and food samples.

Substance P binding sites in the nucleus tractus solitarius of the cat

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

Maley, B.E.; Sasek, C.A.; Seybold, V.S.

1988-11-01

Substance P binding sites in the nucleus tractus solitarius were visualized with receptor autoradiography using Bolton-Hunter (/sup 125/I)substance P. Substance P binding sites were found to have distinct patterns within the cat nucleus tractus solitarius. The majority of substance P binding sites were present in the medial, intermediate and the peripheral rim of the parvocellular subdivisions. Lower amounts of substance P binding sites were present in the commissural, ventrolateral, interstitial and dorsolateral subdivisions. No substance P binding sites were present in the central region of the parvocellular subdivision or the solitary tract. The localization of substance P binding sites inmore » the nucleus tractus solitarius is very similar to the patterns of substance P immunoreactive fibers previously described for this region. Results of this study add further support for a functional role of substance P in synaptic circuits of the nucleus tractus solitarius.« less

MDA, MDMA, and other "mescaline-like" substances in the US military's search for a truth drug (1940s to 1960s).

PubMed

Passie, Torsten; Benzenhöfer, Udo

2018-01-01

This article describes the context in which 3,4-methylenedioxyamphetamine (MDA), 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) and other mescaline-like compounds were explored as hallucinogens for military and intelligence purposes from the 1940s to the 1960s. Germans first tested mescaline as a "truth drug" in a military context. In the 1940s, the United States military started testing hallucinogenic substances as truth drugs for interrogation and behavior manipulation. After tests carried out using mescaline and other drugs in 1950, some derivatives of mescaline were synthesized by the Army for the exploration of possible "speech-inducing" effects. After insufficient animal testing, the substances were given to patients at the New York State Psychiatric Institute (NYSPI). 3,4-Methylenedioxy-N-ethylamphetamine (MDE), a compound almost identical to MDMA, was among the compounds delivered for testing at the NYSPI. During tests with other derivatives (3,4-dimethoxyphenethylamine (DMA), 3,4-methylenedioxyphenethylamine (MDPEA), MDA) in 1952-53, an unwitting patient died in these tests, which was kept secret from the public. Research was interrupted and toxicological animal testing procedures were initiated. The secret animal studies run in 1953/1954 revealed that some of the "mescaline derivatives" tested (e.g. MDA, MDE, DMA, 3,4,5-trimethoxyamphetamine (TMA), MDMA) were considered for further testing in humans. In 1955, the military changed focus to lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), but some interest in mescaline-like compounds remained for their ability to change mood and habit without interfering with cognition and sensory perception. Based on the known documents, it remains unclear (but probable) whether any of the mescaline derivatives tested were being used operationally. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

The perspective of caffeine and caffeine derived compounds in therapy.

PubMed

Pohanka, M

2015-01-01

Caffeine (1,3,7-trimethylxanthine) is a plant secondary metabolite with a significant impact on multiple processes and regulatory pathways in the body. Though major part of the population meets caffeine via coffee, tea or chocolate, it has also an important role in pharmacology and it is used as a supplementary substance in medicaments. Currently, the ability of caffeine to ameliorate some neurodegenerative disorders is proved in some studies. This review describes basic data about caffeine including toxicity, pharmacokinetics, biological mechanism of the action, and metabolism. Beside this, promising applications of caffeine, new medicaments and derivatives are discussed. Relevant papers and inventions are depicted in the manuscript. Caffeine is a pharmacologically promising substance that deserves big consideration in the current research and development. The compound has several reasons to be an object of scientific interest and to be used for pharmacology purposes. Despite an extensive research for a long time, no significantly negative effects on human health were proved hence caffeine can be considered as a completely safe compound. The recent data about amelioration of neurodegenerative and other disorders are promising and deserving more work on the issue. ARTICLE HIGHLIGHTS: Caffeine is a purine alkaloid from plants and it has a broad use in current pharmacology. Caffeine is a competitive antagonist of neurotransmitter adenosine on adenosine receptors. The substance is added as a supplementary to drugs and food.Besides interfering on adenosine receptors, caffeine interacts with acetylcholinesterase, monoamine oxidase, phosphodiesterase, ryanodine receptors and others.Current research is devoted to the role of caffeine in neurodegenerative diseases and immunity alteration. New chemical compounds based on caffeine moiety are prepared (Tab. 4, Fig. 6, Ref. 149).

Pharmacological interference with 123I-metaiodobenzylguanidine: a limitation to developing cardiac innervation imaging in clinical practice?

PubMed

Stefanelli, A; Treglia, G; Bruno, I; Rufini, V; Giordano, A

2013-05-01

(123)I-metaiodo-benzylguanidine (MIBG) scintigraphy is considered a valid imaging test to evaluate the cardiac sympathetic nervous system. However, scientific literature showed that some drugs are able to or are expected to interfere with MIBG uptake. Thirty years after introduction of the method and over 15 years since the appearance of the first document on pharmacological interference with MIBG, an update on this issue has become necessary. The aims of this review paper are: (1) to identify the pharmacological basis of interference of a variety of substances with MIBG uptake; and (2) to update the list of drugs that definitely interfere with MIBG on the grounds of evidence in the literature. A MEDLINE search was conducted. Scientific studies, case report and review articles were collected. Papers published demonstrating drugs interfering with MIBG uptake were evaluated. Drugs may interact with MIBG uptake by 5 mechanism: (1) type-1 uptake inhibition; (2) inhibition of active transport to vesicles; (3) competition in transport to vesicles; (4) depletion of neurosecretory vesicle content; (5) calcium-mediated mechanism. We find that drugs like cocaine, antidepressants, some antipsychotic, tramadol, labetalol, sympatho-mimetics, reserpine and some calcium antagonists (as diltiazem, verapamil and nifedipine) do interfere with MIBG uptake. On the other hand, we find that controversial data are available on scientific literature regarding digoxin and amiodarone. A compiled statement of MIBG interfering medicines is now recommended to help nuclear medicine physicians in clinical practice to avoid potential pitfalls and improve the efficacy of (123)I-MIBG scintigraphy as a diagnostic tool.

Karanjin interferes with ABCB1, ABCC1, and ABCG2.

PubMed

Michaelis, Martin; Rothweiler, Florian; Nerreter, Thomas; Sharifi, Mohsen; Ghafourian, Taravat; Cinatl, Jindrich

2014-01-01

The prominent ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters ABCB1, ABCC1, and ABCG2 are involved in substance transport across physiological barriers and therefore in drug absorption, distribution, and elimination. They also mediate multi-drug resistance in cancer cells. Different flavonoids are known to interfere with different ABC transporters. Here, the effect of the furanoflavonol karanjin, a potential drug with antiglycaemic, gastroprotective, antifungal, and antibacterial effects, was investigated on ABCB1, ABCC1, and ABCG2-mediated drug transport in comparison to the flavonoids apigenin, genistein, and naringenin. Cells expressing the relevant transporters (ABCB1: UKF-NB-3(ABCB1), UKF-NB-3(r)VCR¹⁰; ABCC1: G62, PC-3(r)VCR²⁰; ABCG2: UKF-NB-3(ABCG2)) were used in combination with specific fluorescent and cytotoxic ABC transporter substrates and ABC transporter inhibitors to study ABC transporter function. Moreover, the effects of the investigated flavonoids were determined on the ABC transporter ATPase activities. Karanjin interfered with drug efflux mediated by ABCB1, ABCC1, and ABCG2 and enhanced the ATPase activity of all three transporters. Moreover, karanjin exerted more pronounced effects than the control flavonoids apigenin, genistein, and naringenin on all three transporters. Most notably, karanjin interfered with ABCB1 at low concentrations being about 1 µM. Taken together, these findings should be taken into account during further consideration of karanjin as a potential drug for different therapeutic indications. The effects on ABCB1, ABCC1, and ABCG2 may affect the pharmacokinetics of co-administered drugs.

The low molecular weight Dextran 40 inhibits the adhesion of T lymphocytes to endothelial cells

PubMed Central

TERMEER, C C; WEISS, J M; SCHÖPF, E; VANSCHEIDT, W; SIMON, J C

1998-01-01

Dextrans are complex colloidal macromolecules widely used as haemorrheologic substances and anti-thrombotic agents. Here we describe a novel function of Dextran 40 by demonstrating an inhibition of T lymphocyte adhesion to endothelial cells (EC). We applied an established microassay in which constitutive and tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α)-induced binding of mouse T lymphoma cells (TK-1) to mouse endothelioma (eEND.2) cells is mediated by the interaction of intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) on EC with their counter-receptors the LFA-1 heterodimer (CD11a/CD18) and VLA-4 on T cells. Dextran 40 in therapeutically achievable levels (2–32 mg/ml) reduced both constitutive and TNF-α-stimulated TK-1 adhesion to eEND.2. Selective preincubation of eEND.2 or TK-1 revealed that Dextran 40 acted exclusively on the T cells. To explore further the mechanisms by which Dextran 40 interfered with TK-1 adhesion, their LFA-1 and VLA-4 expression was analysed by FACS. The surface expression levels of neither receptor were affected by Dextran 40. However, confocal microscopy revealed that Dextran 40 interfered with the activation-dependent capping and clustering of LFA-1 and VLA-4 on the surface of TK-1. We conclude that Dextran 40 inhibits the capacity of TK-1 T cells to adhere to eEND.2 endothelial cells and thus may be useful for therapeutic intervention in diseases associated with enhanced T lymphocyte binding to microvascular endothelium. PMID:9844053

Conifer Diterpene Resin Acids Disrupt Juvenile Hormone-Mediated Endocrine Regulation in the Indian Meal Moth Plodia interpunctella.

PubMed

Oh, Hyun-Woo; Yun, Chan-Seok; Jeon, Jun Hyoung; Kim, Ji-Ae; Park, Doo-Sang; Ryu, Hyung Won; Oh, Sei-Ryang; Song, Hyuk-Hwan; Shin, Yunhee; Jung, Chan Sik; Shin, Sang Woon

2017-07-01

Diterpene resin acids (DRAs) are important components of oleoresin and greatly contribute to the defense strategies of conifers against herbivorous insects. In the present study, we determined that DRAs function as insect juvenile hormone (JH) antagonists that interfere with the juvenile hormone-mediated binding of the JH receptor Methoprene-tolerant (Met) and steroid receptor coactivator (SRC). Using a yeast two-hybrid system transformed with Met and SRC from the Indian meal moth Plodia interpunctella, we tested the interfering activity of 3704 plant extracts against JH III-mediated Met-SRC binding. Plant extracts from conifers, especially members of the Pinaceae, exhibited strong interfering activity, and four active interfering DRAs (7α-dehydroabietic acid, 7-oxodehydroabietic acid, dehydroabietic acid, and sandaracopimaric acid) were isolated from roots of the Japanese pine Pinus densiflora. The four isolated DRAs, along with abietic acid, disrupted the juvenile hormone-mediated binding of P. interpunctella Met and SRC, although only 7-oxodehydroabietic acid disrupted larval development. These results demonstrate that DRAs may play a defensive role against herbivorous insects via insect endocrine-disrupting activity.

32 CFR 1903.8 - Interfering with Agency functions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 32 National Defense 6 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Interfering with Agency functions. 1903.8 Section 1903.8 National Defense Other Regulations Relating to National Defense CENTRAL INTELLIGENCE AGENCY CONDUCT ON AGENCY INSTALLATIONS § 1903.8 Interfering with Agency functions. The following are prohibited...

32 CFR 1903.8 - Interfering with Agency functions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 32 National Defense 6 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Interfering with Agency functions. 1903.8 Section 1903.8 National Defense Other Regulations Relating to National Defense CENTRAL INTELLIGENCE AGENCY CONDUCT ON AGENCY INSTALLATIONS § 1903.8 Interfering with Agency functions. The following are prohibited...

32 CFR 1903.8 - Interfering with Agency functions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... 32 National Defense 6 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Interfering with Agency functions. 1903.8 Section 1903.8 National Defense Other Regulations Relating to National Defense CENTRAL INTELLIGENCE AGENCY CONDUCT ON AGENCY INSTALLATIONS § 1903.8 Interfering with Agency functions. The following are prohibited...

32 CFR 1903.8 - Interfering with Agency functions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... 32 National Defense 6 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Interfering with Agency functions. 1903.8 Section 1903.8 National Defense Other Regulations Relating to National Defense CENTRAL INTELLIGENCE AGENCY CONDUCT ON AGENCY INSTALLATIONS § 1903.8 Interfering with Agency functions. The following are prohibited...

32 CFR 1903.8 - Interfering with Agency functions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... 32 National Defense 6 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Interfering with Agency functions. 1903.8 Section 1903.8 National Defense Other Regulations Relating to National Defense CENTRAL INTELLIGENCE AGENCY CONDUCT ON AGENCY INSTALLATIONS § 1903.8 Interfering with Agency functions. The following are prohibited...

Therapeutic opportunities of small interfering RNA.

PubMed

Goyal, Bhoomika R; Patel, Mayur M; Soni, Mithil K; Bhadada, Shraddha V

2009-08-01

Formation of small interfering RNA (siRNA) occurs in two steps involving binding of the RNA nucleases to a large double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) and its cleavage into fragments called siRNA. In the second step, these siRNAs join a multinuclease complex, which degrades the homologous single-stranded mRNAs. The delivery of siRNA involves viral- and non-viral-mediated delivery systems; the approaches for chemical modifications have also been developed. It has various therapeutic applications for disorders like cardiovascular diseases, central nervous system (CNS) disorders, cancer, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatic disorders, etc. The present review gives an overview of the applications of siRNA and their potential for treating many hitherto untreatable diseases.

High resolution frequency to time domain transformations applied to the stepped carrier MRIS measurements

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ardalan, Sasan H.

1992-01-01

Two narrow-band radar systems are developed for high resolution target range estimation in inhomogeneous media. They are reformulations of two presently existing systems such that high resolution target range estimates may be achieved despite the use of narrow bandwidth radar pulses. A double sideband suppressed carrier radar technique originally derived in 1962, and later abandoned due to its inability to accurately measure target range in the presence of an interfering reflection, is rederived to incorporate the presence of an interfering reflection. The new derivation shows that the interfering reflection causes a period perturbation in the measured phase response. A high resolution spectral estimation technique is used to extract the period of this perturbation leading to accurate target range estimates independent of the signal-to-interference ratio. A non-linear optimal signal processing algorithm is derived for a frequency-stepped continuous wave radar system. The resolution enhancement offered by optimal signal processing of the data over the conventional Fourier Transform technique is clearly demonstrated using measured radar data. A method for modeling plane wave propagation in inhomogeneous media based on transmission line theory is derived and studied. Several simulation results including measurement of non-uniform electron plasma densities that develop near the heat tiles of a space re-entry vehicle are presented which verify the validity of the model.

32 CFR 234.6 - Interfering with agency functions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 32 National Defense 2 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Interfering with agency functions. 234.6 Section 234.6 National Defense Department of Defense (Continued) OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY OF DEFENSE (CONTINUED) MISCELLANEOUS CONDUCT ON THE PENTAGON RESERVATION § 234.6 Interfering with agency functions. The following are...

47 CFR 73.185 - Computation of interfering signal.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 47 Telecommunication 4 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Computation of interfering signal. 73.185... RADIO BROADCAST SERVICES AM Broadcast Stations § 73.185 Computation of interfering signal. (a) Measured... paragraphs (a) (1) or (2) of this section. (b) For skywave signals from stations operating on all channels...

47 CFR 73.185 - Computation of interfering signal.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 47 Telecommunication 4 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Computation of interfering signal. 73.185... RADIO BROADCAST SERVICES AM Broadcast Stations § 73.185 Computation of interfering signal. (a) Measured... paragraphs (a) (1) or (2) of this section. (b) For skywave signals from stations operating on all channels...

47 CFR 73.185 - Computation of interfering signal.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 47 Telecommunication 4 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Computation of interfering signal. 73.185... RADIO BROADCAST SERVICES AM Broadcast Stations § 73.185 Computation of interfering signal. (a) Measured... paragraphs (a) (1) or (2) of this section. (b) For skywave signals from stations operating on all channels...

47 CFR 73.185 - Computation of interfering signal.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 47 Telecommunication 4 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Computation of interfering signal. 73.185... RADIO BROADCAST SERVICES AM Broadcast Stations § 73.185 Computation of interfering signal. (a) Measured... paragraphs (a) (1) or (2) of this section. (b) For skywave signals from stations operating on all channels...

47 CFR 73.185 - Computation of interfering signal.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 47 Telecommunication 4 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Computation of interfering signal. 73.185... RADIO BROADCAST SERVICES AM Broadcast Stations § 73.185 Computation of interfering signal. (a) Measured... paragraphs (a) (1) or (2) of this section. (b) For skywave signals from stations operating on all channels...

36 CFR 261.3 - Interfering with a Forest officer, volunteer, or human resource program enrollee or giving false...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... officer, volunteer, or human resource program enrollee or giving false report to a Forest officer. 261.3... General Prohibitions § 261.3 Interfering with a Forest officer, volunteer, or human resource program..., intimidating, or intentionally interfering with any Forest officer, volunteer, or human resource program...

36 CFR 261.3 - Interfering with a Forest officer, volunteer, or human resource program enrollee or giving false...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... officer, volunteer, or human resource program enrollee or giving false report to a Forest officer. 261.3... General Prohibitions § 261.3 Interfering with a Forest officer, volunteer, or human resource program..., intimidating, or intentionally interfering with any Forest officer, volunteer, or human resource program...

36 CFR 261.3 - Interfering with a Forest officer, volunteer, or human resource program enrollee or giving false...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... officer, volunteer, or human resource program enrollee or giving false report to a Forest officer. 261.3... General Prohibitions § 261.3 Interfering with a Forest officer, volunteer, or human resource program..., intimidating, or intentionally interfering with any Forest officer, volunteer, or human resource program...

36 CFR 261.3 - Interfering with a Forest officer, volunteer, or human resource program enrollee or giving false...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... officer, volunteer, or human resource program enrollee or giving false report to a Forest officer. 261.3... General Prohibitions § 261.3 Interfering with a Forest officer, volunteer, or human resource program..., intimidating, or intentionally interfering with any Forest officer, volunteer, or human resource program...

36 CFR 261.3 - Interfering with a Forest officer, volunteer, or human resource program enrollee or giving false...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... officer, volunteer, or human resource program enrollee or giving false report to a Forest officer. 261.3... General Prohibitions § 261.3 Interfering with a Forest officer, volunteer, or human resource program..., intimidating, or intentionally interfering with any Forest officer, volunteer, or human resource program...

Suicide and Children.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fish, William C.; Waldhart-Letzel, Edith

1981-01-01

Presents statistics on the extent of child and adolescent suicide. Symptoms and causes are suggested including ego weakness, child rearing attitudes and practices, and social influences. Considers the ethics of interfering with the attempt to commit suicide and makes recommendations for prevention. (RC)

CPR-induced consciousness: A cross-sectional study of healthcare practitioners' experience.

PubMed

Olaussen, Alexander; Shepherd, Matthew; Nehme, Ziad; Smith, Karen; Jennings, Paul A; Bernard, Stephen; Mitra, Biswadev

2016-11-01

Consciousness may occur during effective management of cardiac arrest and ranges from eye opening to interfering with rescuers' resuscitation attempts. Reported cases in the medical literature appear scant compared to anecdotal reports. The aim of this study was to evaluate health care providers' experience with consciousness during cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (CPR). A cross-sectional survey of 100 experienced health care professionals, including doctors, nurses and paramedics. Participants were asked about their experience with both CPR-non-interfering consciousness (e.g. eye opening, agonal breaths or mild restlessness) and CPR-interfering consciousness (e.g. purposeful movement, withdrawing from CPR, attempting to pull out airway-securing devices). A third of responders reported attending more than 100 cases of arrests, while another third had attended 20 or less arrests. The responders had a mean of 11 (SD 8.7) years of practice. Most responders (59 of 67) to the question had experienced CPR-non-interfering consciousness and reported experiencing it a median of 3 (IQR 1-5) times. CPR-interfering consciousness had been experienced by 51 of the 63 responders and was experienced overall 1 (IQR 1-3) time. Management of these cases varied widely with varied opinion on ideal management ranging from no action to sedation and/or paralysis. A guideline describing the management of this presentation was considered necessary by 40 out of 57 (70%) responders. Contrasting to a few reports in the medical literature, CPR-induced consciousness appears to be experienced more commonly during resuscitation. Management strategies varied widely and clinician opinion of ideal management was also varied. The desire for consensus guidelines on this topic exists. Acute care nurses are integral members of all resuscitation teams and in conjunction with other clinicians, ideally placed to develop, implement and disseminate such guidelines to delivering evidence based care to this sub-group of patients. Copyright © 2016 College of Emergency Nursing Australasia. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Intratracheal Administration of Small Interfering RNA Targeting Fas Reduces Lung Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury.

PubMed

Del Sorbo, Lorenzo; Costamagna, Andrea; Muraca, Giuseppe; Rotondo, Giuseppe; Civiletti, Federica; Vizio, Barbara; Bosco, Ornella; Martin Conte, Erica L; Frati, Giacomo; Delsedime, Luisa; Lupia, Enrico; Fanelli, Vito; Ranieri, V Marco

2016-08-01

Lung ischemia-reperfusion injury is the main cause of primary graft dysfunction after lung transplantation and results in increased morbidity and mortality. Fas-mediated apoptosis is one of the pathologic mechanisms involved in the development of ischemia-reperfusion injury. We hypothesized that the inhibition of Fas gene expression in lungs by intratracheal administration of small interfering RNA could reduce lung ischemia-reperfusion injury in an ex vivo model reproducing the procedural sequence of lung transplantation. Prospective, randomized, controlled experimental study. University research laboratory. C57/BL6 mice weighing 28-30 g. Ischemia-reperfusion injury was induced in lungs isolated from mice, 48 hours after treatment with intratracheal small interfering RNA targeting Fas, control small interfering RNA, or vehicle. Isolated lungs were exposed to 6 hours of cold ischemia (4°C), followed by 2 hours of warm (37°C) reperfusion with a solution containing 10% of fresh whole blood and mechanical ventilation with constant low driving pressure. Fas gene expression was significantly silenced at the level of messenger RNA and protein after ischemia-reperfusion in lungs treated with small interfering RNA targeting Fas compared with lungs treated with control small interfering RNA or vehicle. Silencing of Fas gene expression resulted in reduced edema formation (bronchoalveolar lavage protein concentration and lung histology) and improvement in lung compliance. These effects were associated with a significant reduction of pulmonary cell apoptosis of lungs treated with small interfering RNA targeting Fas, which did not affect cytokine release and neutrophil infiltration. Fas expression silencing in the lung by small interfering RNA is effective against ischemia-reperfusion injury. This approach represents a potential innovative strategy of organ preservation before lung transplantation.

Opportunistic Access in Frequency Hopping Cognitive Radio Networks

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-03-27

thresholding MA multiple access MFSK M-ary frequency shift keying MIMO multiple-input/multiple-output OFDM orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing x...adaptive BER performance as a function of ISR with orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing ( OFDM ) interference present. . . . . . . . . . 41 4.15 Non...adaptive BER performance as a function of EB/N0 with OFDM interfer- ence present

Adaptive antenna arrays for satellite communications: Design and testing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gupta, I. J.; Swarner, W. G.; Walton, E. K.

1985-01-01

When two separate antennas are used with each feedback loop to decorrelate noise, the antennas should be located such that the phase of the interfering signal in the two antennas is the same while the noise in them is uncorrelated. Thus, the antenna patterns and spatial distribution of the auxiliary antennas are quite important and should be carefully selected. The selection and spatial distribution of auxiliary elements is discussed when the main antenna is a center fed reflector antenna. It is shown that offset feeds of the reflector antenna can be used as auxiliary elements of an adaptive array to suppress weak interfering signals. An experimental system is designed to verify the theoretical analysis. The details of the experimental systems are presented.

Unsteady transonic flow calculations for two-dimensional canard-wing configurations with aeroelastic applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Batina, J. T.

1985-01-01

Unsteady transonic flow calculations for aerodynamically interfering airfoil configurations are performed as a first step toward solving the three dimensional canard wing interaction problem. These calculations are performed by extending the XTRAN2L two dimensional unsteady transonic small disturbance code to include an additional airfoil. Unsteady transonic forces due to plunge and pitch motions of a two dimensional canard and wing are presented. Results for a variety of canard wing separation distances reveal the effects of aerodynamic interference on unsteady transonic airloads. Aeroelastic analyses employing these unsteady airloads demonstrate the effects of aerodynamic interference on aeroelastic stability and flutter. For the configurations studied, increases in wing flutter speed result with the inclusion of the aerodynamically interfering canard.

Clinical evaluation of the FreeStyle Precision Pro system.

PubMed

Brazg, Ronald; Hughes, Kristen; Martin, Pamela; Coard, Julie; Toffaletti, John; McDonnell, Elizabeth; Taylor, Elizabeth; Farrell, Lausanne; Patel, Mona; Ward, Jeanne; Chen, Ting; Alva, Shridhara; Ng, Ronald

2013-06-05

A new version of international standard (ISO 15197) and CLSI Guideline (POCT12) with more stringent accuracy criteria are near publication. We evaluated the glucose test performance of the FreeStyle Precision Pro system, a new blood glucose monitoring system (BGMS) designed to enhance accuracy for point-of-care testing (POCT). Precision, interference and system accuracy with 503 blood samples from capillary, venous and arterial sources were evaluated in a multicenter study. Study results were analyzed and presented in accordance with the specifications and recommendations of the final draft ISO 15197 and the new POCT12. The FreeStyle Precision Pro system demonstrated acceptable precision (CV <5%), no interference across a hematocrit range of 15-65%, and, except for xylose, no interference from 24 of 25 potentially interfering substances. It also met all accuracy criteria specified in the final draft ISO 15197 and POCT12, with 97.3-98.9% of the individual results of various blood sample types agreeing within ±12 mg/dl of the laboratory analyzer values at glucose concentrations <100mg/dl and within ±12.5% of the laboratory analyzer values at glucose concentrations ≥100 mg/dl. The FreeStyle Precision Pro system met the tighter accuracy requirements, providing a means for enhancing accuracy for point-of-care blood glucose monitoring. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties of the essential oil and active compounds from Cordia verbenacea.

PubMed

Passos, Giselle F; Fernandes, Elizabeth S; da Cunha, Fernanda M; Ferreira, Juliano; Pianowski, Luiz F; Campos, Maria M; Calixto, João B

2007-03-21

The anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic effects of the essential oil of Cordia verbenacea (Boraginaceae) and some of its active compounds were evaluated. Systemic treatment with the essential oil of Cordia verbenacea (300-600mg/kg, p.o.) reduced carrageenan-induced rat paw oedema, myeloperoxidase activity and the mouse oedema elicited by carrageenan, bradykinin, substance P, histamine and platelet-activating factor. It also prevented carrageenan-evoked exudation and the neutrophil influx to the rat pleura and the neutrophil migration into carrageenan-stimulated mouse air pouches. Moreover, Cordia verbenacea oil inhibited the oedema caused by Apis mellifera venom or ovalbumin in sensitized rats and ovalbumin-evoked allergic pleurisy. The essential oil significantly decreased TNFalpha, without affecting IL-1beta production, in carrageenan-injected rat paws. Neither the PGE(2) formation after intrapleural injection of carrageenan nor the COX-1 or COX-2 activities in vitro were affected by the essential oil. Of high interest, the paw edema induced by carrageenan in mice was markedly inhibited by both sesquiterpenic compounds obtained from the essential oil: alpha-humulene and trans-caryophyllene (50mg/kg, p.o.). Collectively, the present results showed marked anti-inflammatory effects for the essential oil of Cordia verbenacea and some active compounds, probably by interfering with TNFalpha production. Cordia verbenacea essential oil or its constituents might represent new therapeutic options for the treatment of inflammatory diseases.

Gas Chromatographic/Mass Spectrometric Differentiation of Atenolol, Metoprolol, Propranolol, and an Interfering Metabolite Product of Metoprolol

DTIC Science & Technology

2004-10-01

Gas Chromatographic/Mass Spectrometric Differentiation of Atenolol, Metoprolol , Propranolol, and an Interfering Metabolite Product of Metoprolol ...4. Title and Subtitle 5. Report Date October 2004 Gas Chromatographic/Mass Spectrometric Differentiation of Atenolol, Metoprolol , Propranolol...and an Interfering Metabolite Product of Metoprolol 6. Performing Organization Code 7. Author(s) 8. Performing Organization Report No. Angier MK

A first approach to the distortion analysis of nonlinear analog circuits utilizing X-parameters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Weber, H.; Widemann, C.; Mathis, W.

2013-07-01

In this contribution a first approach to the distortion analysis of nonlinear 2-port-networks with X-parameters1 is presented. The X-parameters introduced by Verspecht and Root (2006) offer the possibility to describe nonlinear microwave 2-port-networks under large signal conditions. On the basis of X-parameter measurements with a nonlinear network analyzer (NVNA) behavioral models can be extracted for the networks. These models can be used to consider the nonlinear behavior during the design process of microwave circuits. The idea of the present work is to extract the behavioral models in order to describe the influence of interfering signals on the output behavior of the nonlinear circuits. Hereby, a simulator is used instead of a NVNA to extract the X-parameters. Assuming that the interfering signals are relatively small compared to the nominal input signal, the output signal can be described as a superposition of the effects of each input signal. In order to determine the functional correlation between the scattering variables, a polynomial dependency is assumed. The required datasets for the approximation of the describing functions are simulated by a directional coupler model in Cadence Design Framework. The polynomial coefficients are obtained by a least-square method. The resulting describing functions can be used to predict the system's behavior under certain conditions as well as the effects of the interfering signal on the output signal. 1 X-parameter is a registered trademark of Agilent Technologies, Inc.

[The influence of interfered circadian rhythm on pregnancy and neonatal rats].

PubMed

Chen, Wen-Jun; Sheng, Wen-Jie; Guo, Yin-Hua; Tan, Yong

2015-10-25

The aim of this study was to observe the influence of interfered circadian rhythm on pregnancy of rats and growth of neonatal rats, and to explore the relationship between the interfered circadian rhythm and the changes of melatonin and progesterone. Continuous light was used to inhibit melatonin secretion and therefore the interfered circadian rhythm animal model was obtained. The influence of interfered circadian rhythm on delivery of pregnant rats was observed. Serum was collected from rats during different stages of pregnancy to measure the concentrations of melatonin and progesterone. In order to observe the embryo resorption rate, half of pregnant rats were randomly selected to undergo a laparotomy, and the remainder was used to observe delivery and assess the growth of neonatal rats after delivery. The results showed that the interfered circadian rhythm induced adverse effects on pregnancy outcomes, including an increase of embryo resorption rate and a decrease in the number of live births; inhibited the secretion of melatonin along with decreased serum progesterone level; prolonged the stage of labor, but not the duration of pregnancy; and disturbed the fetal intrauterine growth and the growth of neonatal rats. The results suggest that interfered circadian rhythm condition made by continuous light could make adverse effects on both pregnant rats and neonatal rats. The results of our study may provide a way to modulate pregnant women's circadian rhythm and a possibility of application of melatonin on pregnant women.

Determination of Interference During In Vitro Pyrogen Detection: Development and Characterization of a Cell-Based Assay.

PubMed

Palma, Linda; Rossetti, Francesca; Dominici, Sabrina; Buondelmonte, Costantina; Rocchi, Marco B L; Rizzardi, Gian P; Vallanti, Giuliana; Magnani, Mauro

Contamination of pharmaceutical products and medical devices with pyrogens such as endotoxins is the most common cause of systemic inflammation and, in worst cases, of septic shock. Thus, quantification of pyrogens is crucial. The limulus amebocyte lysate (LAL)-based assays are the reference tests for in vitro endotoxin detection, in association with the in vivo rabbit pyrogen test (RPT), according to European Pharmacopoeia (EP 2.6.14), and U.S. Pharmacopoeia (USP <85>). However, several substances interfere with LAL assay, while RPT is not accurate, not quantitative, and raises ethical limits. Biological assays, as monocyte activation tests, have been developed and included in European Pharmacopoeia (EP 7.0; 04/2010:20630) guidelines as an alternative to RPT and proved relevant to the febrile reaction in vivo. Because this reaction is carried out by endogenous mediators under the transcriptional control of nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-kappaB), we sought to determine whether a NF-kappaB reporter-gene assay, based on MonoMac-6 (MM6) cells, could reconcile the basic mechanism of innate immune response with the relevance of monocytoid cell lines to the organism reaction to endotoxins. This article describes both optimization and characterization of the reporter cells-based assay, which overall proved the linearity, accuracy, and precision of the test, and demonstrated the sensitivity of the assay to 0.24 EU/mL endotoxin, close to the pyrogenic threshold in humans. Moreover, the assay was experimentally compared to the LAL test in the evaluation of selected interfering samples. The good performance of the MM6 reporter test demonstrates the suitability of this assay to evaluate interfering or false-positive samples.

Implicit versus explicit frequency comparisons: two mechanisms of auditory change detection.

PubMed

Demany, Laurent; Semal, Catherine; Pressnitzer, Daniel

2011-04-01

Listeners had to compare, with respect to pitch (frequency), a pure tone (T) to a combination of pure tones presented subsequently (C). The elements of C were either synchronous, and therefore difficult to hear out individually, or asynchronous and therefore easier to hear out individually. In the "present/absent" condition, listeners had to judge if T reappeared in C or not. In the "up/down" condition, the task was to judge if the element of C most similar to T was higher or lower than T. When the elements of C were synchronous, the up/down task was found to be easier than the present/absent task; the converse result was obtained when the elements of C were asynchronous. This provides evidence for a duality of auditory comparisons between tone frequencies: (1) implicit comparisons made by automatic and direction-sensitive "frequency-shift detectors"; (2) explicit comparisons more sensitive to the magnitude of a frequency change than to its direction. Another experiment suggests that although the frequency-shift detectors cannot compare effectively two tones separated by an interfering tone, they are largely insensitive to interfering noise bursts.

The influence of target-masker similarity on across-ear interference in dichotic listening

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brungart, Douglas; Simpson, Brian

2004-05-01

In most dichotic listening tasks, the comprehension of a target speech signal presented in one ear is unaffected by the presence of irrelevant speech in the opposite ear. However, recent results have shown that contralaterally presented interfering speech signals do influence performance when a second interfering speech signal is present in the same ear as the target speech. In this experiment, we examined the influence of target-masker similarity on this effect by presenting ipsilateral and contralateral masking phrases spoken by the same talker, a different same-sex talker, or a different-sex talker than the one used to generate the target speech. The results show that contralateral target-masker similarity has the greatest influence on performance when an easily segregated different-sex masker is presented in the target ear, and the least influence when a difficult-to-segregate same-talker masker is presented in the target ear. These results indicate that across-ear interference in dichotic listening is not directly related to the difficulty of the segregation task in the target ear, and suggest that contralateral maskers are least likely to interfere with dichotic speech perception when the same general strategy could be used to segregate the target from the masking voices in the ipsilateral and contralateral ears.

The Effect of Varying Teacher Presentation Rates on Responding during Discrete Trial Training for Two Children with Autism

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Roxburgh, Carole A.; Carbone, Vincent J.

2013-01-01

Recent research has emphasized the importance of manipulating antecedent variables to reduce interfering behaviors when teaching persons with autism. Few studies have focused on the effects of the rate of teacher-presented instructional demands as an independent variable. In this study, an alternating treatment design was used to evaluate the…

Reduced effects of pictorial distinctiveness on false memory following dynamic visual noise.

PubMed

Parker, Andrew; Kember, Timothy; Dagnall, Neil

2017-07-01

High levels of false recognition for non-presented items typically occur following exposure to lists of associated words. These false recognition effects can be reduced by making the studied items more distinctive by the presentation of pictures during encoding. One explanation of this is that during recognition, participants expect or attempt to retrieve distinctive pictorial information in order to evaluate the study status of the test item. If this involves the retrieval and use of visual imagery, then interfering with imagery processing should reduce the effectiveness of pictorial information in false memory reduction. In the current experiment, visual-imagery processing was disrupted at retrieval by the use of dynamic visual noise (DVN). It was found that effects of DVN dissociated true from false memory. Memory for studied words was not influenced by the presence of an interfering noise field. However, false memory was increased and the effects of picture-induced distinctiveness was eliminated. DVN also increased false recollection and remember responses to unstudied items.

Methods for Quantitative Creatinine Determination.

PubMed

Moore, John F; Sharer, J Daniel

2017-04-06

Reliable measurement of creatinine is necessary to assess kidney function, and also to quantitate drug levels and diagnostic compounds in urine samples. The most commonly used methods are based on the Jaffe principal of alkaline creatinine-picric acid complex color formation. However, other compounds commonly found in serum and urine may interfere with Jaffe creatinine measurements. Therefore, many laboratories have made modifications to the basic method to remove or account for these interfering substances. This appendix will summarize the basic Jaffe method, as well as a modified, automated version. Also described is a high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method that separates creatinine from contaminants prior to direct quantification by UV absorption. Lastly, a liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method is described that uses stable isotope dilution to reliably quantify creatinine in any sample. This last approach has been recommended by experts in the field as a means to standardize all quantitative creatinine methods against an accepted reference. © 2017 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

Re-examination of the Neisser—Wechsberg (antibody prozone) phenomenon

PubMed Central

Muschel, L. H.; Gustafson, Linda; Larsen, Linda J.

1969-01-01

Although the Neisser—Wechsberg phenomenon resembles the inhibition of agglutination systems by excess antibody, the experimental results have indicated that with heat-inactivated antiserum the phenomenon results both from an excess of specific antibody and of non-specific anti-complementary activity. Complement (C) has been shown to be fixed in the presence of the excess antiserum which inhibits the bactericidal reaction. The inhibition was overcome by an excess of the third complement component factors indicating that the excess of antiserum interfered with the activation or function of the components acting at one of the late steps in the reaction sequence. The prozone phenomenon was relatively slight when unheated antiserum was used or when sensitized organisms were washed to remove serum substances unrelated to antibody. Non-specific anti-complementary activity, therefore, is a major contributor to the prozone phenomenon. Both IgM and IgG fractions of rabbit antisera elicited a prozone although the former had relatively greater bactericidal than inhibitory activity. PMID:5352361

Ultrasensitive aptamer biosensor for malathion detection based on cationic polymer and gold nanoparticles.

PubMed

Bala, Rajni; Kumar, Munish; Bansal, Kavita; Sharma, Rohit K; Wangoo, Nishima

2016-11-15

In this work, we have demonstrated a novel sensing strategy for an organophosphorus pesticide namely, malathion, employing unmodified gold nanoparticles, aptamer and a positively charged, water-soluble polyelectrolyte Polydiallyldimethylammonium chloride (PDDA). The PDDA when associated with the aptamer prevents the aggregation of the gold-nanoparticles while no such inhibition is observed when the aptamer specific pesticide is added to the solution, thereby changing the color of the solution from red to blue. This type of biosensor is quite simple and straightforward and can be completed in a few minutes without the need of any expensive equipment or trained personnel. The proposed method was linear in the concentration range of 0.5-1000pM with 0.06pM as the limit of detection. Moreover, the proposed assay selectively recognized malathion in the presence of other interfering substances and thus, can be applied to real samples for the rapid screening of malathion. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Determination of MDMA, MDA, MDEA and MBDB in oral fluid using high performance liquid chromatography with native fluorescence detection.

PubMed

Concheiro, Marta; de Castro, Ana; Quintela, Oscar; López-Rivadulla, Manuel; Cruz, Angelines

2005-06-10

This paper describes the analytical methodology for the determination of MDMA, MDA, MDEA and MBDB in oral fluid. After a liquid-liquid extraction, the analysis was carried out by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), with fluorescence detection. The detector wavelength was fixed at 285 nm for excitation and 320 nm for emission. The mobile phase, a mixture of phosphate buffer (pH=5) and acetonitrile (75:25), and the column, Kromasil 100 C8 5 microm 250 mm x 4.6mm, allowed good separation of the compounds in an isocratic mode in only 10 min. The method was validated and showed good limits of detection (2 ng/mL) and quantitation (10 ng/mL) for all the amphetamine derivatives. No interfering substances were detected. A stability study of these compounds in oral fluid stored at three different temperatures (-18, 4 and 20 degrees C) over 10 weeks was conducted, showing a time-dependent degradation of the four compounds.

Detection of fullerenes (C60 and C70) in commercial cosmetics

PubMed Central

Benn, Troy M.; Westerhoff, Paul; Herckes, Pierre

2013-01-01

Detection methods are necessary to quantify fullerenes in commercial applications to provide potential exposure levels for future risk assessments of fullerene technologies. The fullerene concentrations of five cosmetic products were evaluated using liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry to separate and specifically detect C60 and C70 from interfering cosmetic substances (e.g., castor oil). A cosmetic formulation was characterized with transmission electron microscopy, which confirmed that polyvinylpyrrolidone encapsulated C60. Liquid-liquid extraction of fullerenes from control samples approached 100% while solid-phase and sonication in toluene extractions yielded recoveries of 27–42%. C60 was detected in four commercial cosmetics ranging from 0.04 to 1.1 μg/g, and C70 was qualitatively detected in two samples. A single-use quantity of cosmetic (0.5 g) may contain up to 0.6 μg of C60, demonstrating a pathway for human exposure. Steady-state modeling of fullerene adsorption to biosolids is used to discuss potential environmental releases from wastewater treatment systems. PMID:21300421

The Effect of Two Receivers on Broadcast Molecular Communication Systems.

PubMed

Lu, Yi; Higgins, Matthew D; Noel, Adam; Leeson, Mark S; Chen, Yunfei

2016-12-01

Molecular communication is a paradigm that utilizes molecules to exchange information between nano-machines. When considering such systems where multiple receivers are present, prior work has assumed for simplicity that they do not interfere with each other. This paper aims to address this issue and shows to what extent an interfering receiver, [Formula: see text], will have an impact on the target receiver, [Formula: see text], with respect to Bit Error Rate (BER) and capacity. Furthermore, approximations of the Binomial distribution are applied to reduce the complexity of calculations. Results show the sensitivity in communication performance due to the relative location of the interfering receiver. Critically, placing [Formula: see text] between the transmitter [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] causes a significant increase in BER or decrease in capacity.

IUPAC-NIST Solubility Data Series. 75. Nonmetals in Liquid Alkali Metals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Borgstedt, Hans Ulrich; Guminski, Cezary; Borgstedt, Hans Ulrich; Guminski, Cezary

2001-07-01

Liquid alkali metals have several physical properties which favor their use in a number of important applications. For example, their large liquidus temperature range and their excellent heat transfer properties are important for use as heat transfer media. They are used in large nuclear reactors in which hundreds of tons of sodium are circulating, and in small parts of engines for cooling of valves. Since these metals are among the most electropositive elements, several of them (Li, Na) can be used in high specific capacity and high energy density batteries at moderately elevated temperatures. The compatibility of metallic constructional materials which are used to contain the liquid metals is strongly influenced by nonmetals present in the liquids. The physical properties of the liquid metals are also influenced by dissolved substances. Several nonmetals dissolved in alkali metals are able to form ternary compounds with components of the constructional materials. Thus, corrosion and compatibility studies have been accompanied by extensive chemical work related to the solutions of non-metallic substances in liquid alkali metals. All available solubility data of nonmetallic elements and some of their compounds in the five liquid alkali metal solvents (Li, Na, K, Rb, and Cs) are collected and compiled. Original publications with reliable data and information on the methods used to generate them are reported in individual Compilations. When numerical data are not given in a publication, the data are often read out from figures and converted into numerical data by the compilers. The precision of this procedure is indicated in the Compilations under Estimated Error. Evaluated solubility data are tabulated at the end of the Critical Evaluations: if there is agreement of at least two independent studies within the experimental error, the solubility values are assigned to the "recommended" category. Values are assigned as "tentative," if only one reliable result was reported, or if the mean value of two or more reliable studies was outside the error limits. In the tabulation, three, two, or one significant figures are assigned for respective precisions that are better than ±1% and ±10% and worse than ±10%. If necessary, the solubilities are recalculated into mol %. The completeness of this investigation of the literature has been confirmed and extended by studying several reviews dealing with the solution chemistry of substances in the alkali metals. Solubility data are sometimes measured under parameters, which are not standard conditions of such measurements. Frequently measurements are performed under constrained pressure. The solubility of noble gases or other gases, which do not form compounds with the alkali metals, depends on the gas pressures. This dependency is documented in the data sheets. Schematic phase diagrams are presented in systems for which they assist the understanding of the data and the conclusions. They are based on the most recent state of knowledge and generally presented in the Critical Evaluations. Some solubility diagrams are shown in form of a log solubility versus reciprocal temperature function. These figures illustrate the larger scatter of data for systems in which interfering reactions cause unstable behavior of solutions. While several solutes are well defined substances, other systems need still additional studies to define the equilibrium solid state compound. One should realize that estimations of the stoichiometry and thermal stability of ternary compounds are experimentally difficult, and their results are often uncertain.

Maternal serum perfluoroalkyl substances during pregnancy and duration of breastfeeding

PubMed Central

Romano, Megan E.; Xu, Yingying; Calafat, Antonia M.; Yolton, Kimberly; Chen, Aimin; Webster, Glenys M.; Eliot, Melissa N.; Howard, Cynthia R.; Lanphear, Bruce P.; Braun, Joseph M.

2016-01-01

Background Perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) may affect breast development and decrease duration of breastfeeding, thus interfering with the health benefits of breastfeeding. We investigated the association between maternal PFAS exposure and breastfeeding duration. Methods We measured PFAS concentrations in maternal serum collected during pregnancy in 2003–2006. After delivery, women (n=336) completed standardized breastfeeding surveys every 3 months until ending breastfeeding or 36 months postpartum. We estimated relative risks (RRs) for ending any breastfeeding within 3 or 6 months postpartum by Poisson regression, adjusted for relevant confounding factors. Results Women in the 4th quartile of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) serum concentration had 1.77 times the risk of ending any breastfeeding by 3 months (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.23, 2.54; p-trend=0.003) and 1.41 times the risk of ending any breastfeeding by 6 months (95%CI: 1.06, 1.87; p-trend=0.038), compared with women in the first quartile. Women in the 4th quartile of perfluorooctane sulfonic acid serum concentration had a marginally increased risk of discontinuing any breastfeeding by 3 months (RR=1.32; 95%CI: 0.97, 1.79; p-trend=0.065). Conclusions Maternal serum PFOA concentrations were inversely related to duration of any breastfeeding in this cohort, even after controlling for prior breastfeeding. These findings suggest that PFOA exposure may adversely affect breastfeeding duration and highlight the need to consider the potential adverse effects of maternal environmental chemical exposure on breastfeeding. PMID:27179585

Development of a Multi-Target Contingency Management Intervention for HIV Positive Substance Users.

PubMed

Stitzer, Maxine; Calsyn, Donald; Matheson, Timothy; Sorensen, James; Gooden, Lauren; Metsch, Lisa

2017-01-01

Contingency management (CM) interventions generally target a single behavior such as attendance or drug use. However, disease outcomes are mediated by complex chains of both healthy and interfering behaviors enacted over extended periods of time. This paper describes a novel multi-target contingency management (CM) program developed for use with HIV positive substance users enrolled in a CTN multi-site study (0049 Project HOPE). Participants were randomly assigned to usual care (referral to health care and SUD treatment) or 6-months strength-based patient navigation interventions with (PN+CM) or without (PN only) the CM program. Primary outcome of the trial was viral load suppression at 12-months post-randomization. Up to $1160 could be earned over 6 months under escalating schedules of reinforcement. Earnings were divided among eight CM targets; two PN-related (PN visits; paperwork completion; 26% of possible earnings), four health-related (HIV care visits, lab blood draw visits, medication check, viral load suppression; 47% of possible earnings) and two drug-use abatement (treatment entry; submission of drug negative UAs; 27% of earnings). The paper describes rationale for selection of targets, pay amounts and pay schedules. The CM program was compatible with and fully integrated into the PN intervention. The study design will allow comparison of behavioral and health outcomes for participants receiving PN with and without CM; results will inform future multi-target CM development. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Special Issue: Substance Abuse.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fuhrmann, Barbara S., Ed.; Washington, Craig S., Ed.

1984-01-01

Presents ten articles about substance abuse: its effects, consequences, and strategies for intervention. Describes specific group therapy techniques and presents both a court service designed for assisting juveniles with drug/alcohol offenses, and a school-based substance abuse prevention program. Looks at strategies for counseling special…

Aversion substance(s) of the rat coagulating glands

USGS Publications Warehouse

Gawienowski, Anthony M.; Berry, Iver J.; Kennelly, James J.

1982-01-01

The aversive substance(s) present in adult male urine were not found in castrate rat urine. Removal of the coagulating glands also resulted in a loss of the aversion compounds. The aversion substances were restored to the urine after androgen treatment of the castrate rats.

A potential plant-derived antifungal acetylenic acid mediates its activity by interfering with fatty acid homeostasis

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

6-Nonadecynoic acid (6-NDA), a plant-derived acetylenic acid, exhibits strong inhibitory activity against the human fungal pathogens Candida albicans, Aspergillus fumigatus, and Trichophyton mentagrophytes. In the present study, transcriptional profiling coupled with mutant and biochemical analyses...

Conflicting Selection Pressures Will Constrain Viral Escape from Interfering Particles: Principles for Designing Resistance-Proof Antivirals.

PubMed

Rast, Luke I; Rouzine, Igor M; Rozhnova, Ganna; Bishop, Lisa; Weinberger, Ariel D; Weinberger, Leor S

2016-05-01

The rapid evolution of RNA-encoded viruses such as HIV presents a major barrier to infectious disease control using conventional pharmaceuticals and vaccines. Previously, it was proposed that defective interfering particles could be developed to indefinitely control the HIV/AIDS pandemic; in individual patients, these engineered molecular parasites were further predicted to be refractory to HIV's mutational escape (i.e., be 'resistance-proof'). However, an outstanding question has been whether these engineered interfering particles-termed Therapeutic Interfering Particles (TIPs)-would remain resistance-proof at the population-scale, where TIP-resistant HIV mutants may transmit more efficiently by reaching higher viral loads in the TIP-treated subpopulation. Here, we develop a multi-scale model to test whether TIPs will maintain indefinite control of HIV at the population-scale, as HIV ('unilaterally') evolves toward TIP resistance by limiting the production of viral proteins available for TIPs to parasitize. Model results capture the existence of two intrinsic evolutionary tradeoffs that collectively prevent the spread of TIP-resistant HIV mutants in a population. First, despite their increased transmission rates in TIP-treated sub-populations, unilateral TIP-resistant mutants are shown to have reduced transmission rates in TIP-untreated sub-populations. Second, these TIP-resistant mutants are shown to have reduced growth rates (i.e., replicative fitness) in both TIP-treated and TIP-untreated individuals. As a result of these tradeoffs, the model finds that TIP-susceptible HIV strains continually outcompete TIP-resistant HIV mutants at both patient and population scales when TIPs are engineered to express >3-fold more genomic RNA than HIV expresses. Thus, the results provide design constraints for engineering population-scale therapies that may be refractory to the acquisition of antiviral resistance.

Evaluation of bilirubin concentration in hemolysed samples, is it really impossible? The altitude-curve cartography approach to interfered assays.

PubMed

Brunori, Paola; Masi, Piergiorgio; Faggiani, Luigi; Villani, Luciano; Tronchin, Michele; Galli, Claudio; Laube, Clarissa; Leoni, Antonella; Demi, Maila; La Gioia, Antonio

2011-04-11

Neonatal jaundice might lead to severe clinical consequences. Measurement of bilirubin in samples is interfered by hemolysis. Over a method-depending cut-off value of measured hemolysis, bilirubin value is not accepted and a new sample is required for evaluation although this is not always possible, especially with newborns and cachectic oncological patients. When usage of different methods, less prone to interferences, is not feasible an alternative recovery method for analytical significance of rejected data might help clinicians to take appropriate decisions. We studied the effects of hemolysis over total bilirubin measurement, comparing hemolysis-interfered bilirubin measurement with the non-interfered value. Interference curves were extrapolated over a wide range of bilirubin (0-30 mg/mL) and hemolysis (H Index 0-1100). Interference "altitude" curves were calculated and plotted. A bimodal acceptance table was calculated. Non-interfered bilirubin of given samples was calculated, by linear interpolation between the nearest lower and upper interference curves. Rejection of interference-sensitive data from hemolysed samples for every method should be based not upon the interferent concentration but upon a more complex algorithm based upon the concentration-dependent bimodal interaction between the interfered analyte and the measured interferent. The altitude-curve cartography approach to interfered assays may help laboratories to build up their own method-dependent algorithm and to improve the trueness of their data by choosing a cut-off value different from the one (-10% interference) proposed by manufacturers. When re-sampling or an alternative method is not available the altitude-curve cartography approach might also represent an alternative recovery method for analytical significance of rejected data. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Negative psychosocial and heavy physical workloads associated with musculoskeletal pain interfering with normal life in older adults: cross-sectional analysis.

PubMed

Lilje, Stina C; Skillgate, Eva; Anderberg, Peter; Berglund, Johan

2015-07-01

Pain is one of the most frequent reasons for seeking health care, and is thus a public health problem. Although there is a progressive increase in pain and impaired physical function with age, few studies are performed on older adults. The aim of this study was to investigate if there are associations between musculoskeletal pain interfering with normal life in older adults and physical and psychosocial workloads through life. The association of heavy physical workload and negative psychosocial workload and musculoskeletal pain interfering with normal life (SF 12) was analyzed by multiple logistic regression. The model was adjusted for eight background covariates: age, gender, growing-up environment, educational level, if living alone or not, obesity, smoking, and leisure physical activity. Negative psychosocial and heavy physical workloads were independently associated with musculoskeletal pain interfering with normal life (adjusted OR: 4.44, 95% CI: 2.84-6.92), and (adjusted OR: 1.88, 95% CI: 1.20-2.93), respectively. The background covariates female gender and higher education were also associated with musculoskeletal pain interfering with normal life, and physical leisure activity was inversely associated. The findings suggest that negative psychosocial and heavy physical workloads are strongly associated with musculoskeletal pain interfering with normal life in older adults. © 2015 the Nordic Societies of Public Health.

A Comparison of Two States' MR Court Challenges.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

French, Laurence Armand

This paper examines two states operating under Federal Court Orders concerning deinstitutionalization of individuals with mental retardation. New Hampshire is presented as a state in which sociopolitical realities have interfered with efforts to monitor the quality of care, as the Laconia State School was closed for economic reasons, thereby…

The marine sponge-derived polyketide endoperoxide plakortide F acid mediates its antifungal activity by interfering with calcium homeostasis

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Plakortide F acid (PFA) is a marine-derived polyketide endoperoxide exhibiting strong inhibitory activity against several clinically important fungal pathogens. In the present study, transcriptional profiling coupled with mutant and biochemical analyses were conducted using the model organism Sacch...

But I've Tried Everything! A Special Educator's Guide to Working with Parents.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lynch, Eleanor W.

Intended for special education teachers, the idea book for involving parents in the individualized education program process is presented. Barriers interferring with parent participation and suggestions for overcoming them are addressed in nine areas: communication problems, transportation problems, babysitting problems, lack of time, lack of…

Some intrinsic neurons of the guinea-pig heart contain substance P.

PubMed

Bałuk, P; Gabella, G

1989-10-09

Whole-mount preparations of the posterior wall of the atria of the guinea pig heart containing intrinsic ganglion cells and nerve plexuses were stained for substance P-like immunoreactivity by the peroxidase-antiperoxidase method. Substance P-like nerve fibres are present as pericellular baskets around most, but not all, of the neuronal cell bodies, and are also found in the connecting nerve bundles, as perivascular nerve plexuses and in the myocardium and pericardium. The majority of ganglion cell bodies are negative for substance P, as reported previously, but we describe for the first time, a small subpopulation of intrinsic neuronal cell bodies which show immunoreactivity for substance P. Therefore, not all cardiac substance P nerves are extrinsic afferent fibres. At present, the physiological role of intrinsic substance P neurones is not clear.

α7nAchR/NMDAR coupling affects NMDAR function and object recognition.

PubMed

Li, Shupeng; Nai, Qiang; Lipina, Tatiana V; Roder, John C; Liu, Fang

2013-12-20

The α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAchR) and NMDA glutamate receptor (NMDAR) are both ligand-gated ion channels permeable to Ca2+ and Na+. Previous studies have demonstrated functional modulation of NMDARs by nAchRs, although the molecular mechanism remains largely unknown. We have previously reported that α7nAchR forms a protein complex with the NMDAR through a protein-protein interaction. We also developed an interfering peptide that is able to disrupt the α7nAchR-NMDAR complex and blocks cue-induced reinstatement of nicotine-seeking in rat models of relapse. In the present study, we investigated whether the α7nAchR-NMDAR interaction is responsible for the functional modulation of NMDAR by α7nAchR using both electrophysiological and behavioral tests. We have found that activation of α7nAchR upregulates NMDAR-mediated whole cell currents and LTP of mEPSC in cultured hippocampal neurons, which can be abolished by the interfering peptide that disrupts the α7nAchR-NMDAR interaction. Moreover, administration of the interfering peptide in mice impairs novel object recognition but not Morris water maze performance. Our results suggest that α7nAchR/NMDAR coupling may selectively affect some aspects of learning and memory.

RFID tracking of sublethal effects of two neonicotinoid insecticides on the foraging behavior of Apis mellifera.

PubMed

Schneider, Christof W; Tautz, Jürgen; Grünewald, Bernd; Fuchs, Stefan

2012-01-01

The development of insecticides requires valid risk assessment procedures to avoid causing harm to beneficial insects and especially to pollinators such as the honeybee Apis mellifera. In addition to testing according to current guidelines designed to detect bee mortality, tests are needed to determine possible sublethal effects interfering with the animal's vitality and behavioral performance. Several methods have been used to detect sublethal effects of different insecticides under laboratory conditions using olfactory conditioning. Furthermore, studies have been conducted on the influence insecticides have on foraging activity and homing ability which require time-consuming visual observation. We tested an experimental design using the radiofrequency identification (RFID) method to monitor the influence of sublethal doses of insecticides on individual honeybee foragers on an automated basis. With electronic readers positioned at the hive entrance and at an artificial food source, we obtained quantifiable data on honeybee foraging behavior. This enabled us to efficiently retrieve detailed information on flight parameters. We compared several groups of bees, fed simultaneously with different dosages of a tested substance. With this experimental approach we monitored the acute effects of sublethal doses of the neonicotinoids imidacloprid (0.15-6 ng/bee) and clothianidin (0.05-2 ng/bee) under field-like circumstances. At field-relevant doses for nectar and pollen no adverse effects were observed for either substance. Both substances led to a significant reduction of foraging activity and to longer foraging flights at doses of ≥0.5 ng/bee (clothianidin) and ≥1.5 ng/bee (imidacloprid) during the first three hours after treatment. This study demonstrates that the RFID-method is an effective way to record short-term alterations in foraging activity after insecticides have been administered once, orally, to individual bees. We contribute further information on the understanding of how honeybees are affected by sublethal doses of insecticides.

RFID Tracking of Sublethal Effects of Two Neonicotinoid Insecticides on the Foraging Behavior of Apis mellifera

PubMed Central

Schneider, Christof W.; Tautz, Jürgen; Grünewald, Bernd; Fuchs, Stefan

2012-01-01

The development of insecticides requires valid risk assessment procedures to avoid causing harm to beneficial insects and especially to pollinators such as the honeybee Apis mellifera. In addition to testing according to current guidelines designed to detect bee mortality, tests are needed to determine possible sublethal effects interfering with the animal's vitality and behavioral performance. Several methods have been used to detect sublethal effects of different insecticides under laboratory conditions using olfactory conditioning. Furthermore, studies have been conducted on the influence insecticides have on foraging activity and homing ability which require time-consuming visual observation. We tested an experimental design using the radiofrequency identification (RFID) method to monitor the influence of sublethal doses of insecticides on individual honeybee foragers on an automated basis. With electronic readers positioned at the hive entrance and at an artificial food source, we obtained quantifiable data on honeybee foraging behavior. This enabled us to efficiently retrieve detailed information on flight parameters. We compared several groups of bees, fed simultaneously with different dosages of a tested substance. With this experimental approach we monitored the acute effects of sublethal doses of the neonicotinoids imidacloprid (0.15–6 ng/bee) and clothianidin (0.05–2 ng/bee) under field-like circumstances. At field-relevant doses for nectar and pollen no adverse effects were observed for either substance. Both substances led to a significant reduction of foraging activity and to longer foraging flights at doses of ≥0.5 ng/bee (clothianidin) and ≥1.5 ng/bee (imidacloprid) during the first three hours after treatment. This study demonstrates that the RFID-method is an effective way to record short-term alterations in foraging activity after insecticides have been administered once, orally, to individual bees. We contribute further information on the understanding of how honeybees are affected by sublethal doses of insecticides. PMID:22253863

Polymers in Small-Interfering RNA Delivery

PubMed Central

Singha, Kaushik; Namgung, Ran

2011-01-01

This review will cover the current strategies that are being adopted to efficiently deliver small interfering RNA using nonviral vectors, including the use of polymers such as polyethylenimine, poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid), polypeptides, chitosan, cyclodextrin, dendrimers, and polymers-containing different nanoparticles. The article will provide a brief and concise account of underlying principle of these polymeric vectors and their structural and functional modifications which were intended to serve different purposes to affect efficient therapeutic outcome of small-interfering RNA delivery. The modifications of these polymeric vectors will be discussed with reference to stimuli-responsiveness, target specific delivery, and incorporation of nanoconstructs such as carbon nanotubes, gold nanoparticles, and silica nanoparticles. The emergence of small-interfering RNA as the potential therapeutic agent and its mode of action will also be mentioned in a nutshell. PMID:21749290

40 CFR 355.15 - Which threshold planning quantity do I use for an extremely hazardous substance present at my...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 29 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Which threshold planning quantity do I use for an extremely hazardous substance present at my facility in solid form? 355.15 Section 355.15... § 355.15 Which threshold planning quantity do I use for an extremely hazardous substance present at my...

Performance of Distributed CFAR Processors in Pearson Distributed Clutter

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Messali, Zoubeida; Soltani, Faouzi

2006-12-01

This paper deals with the distributed constant false alarm rate (CFAR) radar detection of targets embedded in heavy-tailed Pearson distributed clutter. In particular, we extend the results obtained for the cell averaging (CA), order statistics (OS), and censored mean level CMLD CFAR processors operating in positive alpha-stable (P&S) random variables to more general situations, specifically to the presence of interfering targets and distributed CFAR detectors. The receiver operating characteristics of the greatest of (GO) and the smallest of (SO) CFAR processors are also determined. The performance characteristics of distributed systems are presented and compared in both homogeneous and in presence of interfering targets. We demonstrate, via simulation results, that the distributed systems when the clutter is modelled as positive alpha-stable distribution offer robustness properties against multiple target situations especially when using the "OR" fusion rule.

Interaction-induced interference in the integer quantum Hall effect

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sivan, I.; Bhattacharyya, R.; Choi, H. K.; Heiblum, M.; Feldman, D. E.; Mahalu, D.; Umansky, V.

2018-03-01

In recent interference experiments with an electronic Fabry-Pérot interferometer (FPI), implemented in the integer quantum Hall effect regime, a flux periodicity of h /2 e was observed at bulk fillings νB>2.5 . The halved periodicity was accompanied by an interfering charge e*=2 e , determined by shot-noise measurements. Here, we present measurements demonstrating that, counterintuitively, the coherence and the interference periodicity of the interfering chiral edge channel are solely determined by the coherence and the enclosed flux of the adjacent edge channel. Our results elucidate the important role of the latter and suggest that a neutral chiral edge mode plays a crucial role in the pairing phenomenon. Our findings reveal that the observed pairing of electrons is not a curious isolated phenomenon, but one of many manifestations of unexpected edge physics in the quantum Hall effect regime.

Remote Optical Switch for Localized and Selective Control of Gene Interference

PubMed Central

Lee, Somin Eunice; Liu, Gang Logan; Kim, Franklin; Lee, Luke P.

2009-01-01

Near infrared-absorbing gold nanoplasmonic particles (GNPs) are used as optical switches of gene interference and are remotely controlled using light. We have tuned optical switches to a wavelength where cellular photodamage is minimized. Optical switches are functionalized with double-stranded oligonucleotides. At desired times and at specific intracellular locations, remote optical excitation is used to liberate gene-interfering oligonucleotides. We demonstrate a novel gene-interfering technique offering spatial and temporal control, which is otherwise impossible using conventional gene-interfering techniques. PMID:19128006

The development of a research agenda for substance use disorders diagnosis in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, fifth edition (DSM-V).

PubMed

Saunders, John B; Schuckit, Marc A

2006-09-01

This paper describes the background to the establishment of the Substance Use Disorders Workgroup, which was charged with developing the research agenda for the development of the next edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). It summarizes 18 articles that were commissioned to inform that process. A preliminary list of research topics, developed at the DSM-V Launch Conference in 2004, led to the identification of subjects that were subject to formal presentations and detailed discussion at the Substance Use Disorders Conference in February 2005. The 18 articles presented in this supplement examine: (1) categorical versus dimensional diagnoses; (2) the neurobiological basis of substance use disorders; (3) social and cultural perspectives; (4) the crosswalk between DSM-IV and the International Classification of Diseases Tenth Revision (ICD-10); (5) comorbidity of substance use disorders and mental health disorders; (6) subtypes of disorders; (7) issues in adolescence; (8) substance-specific criteria; (9) the place of non-substance addictive disorders; and (10) the available research resources. In the final paper a broadly based research agenda for the development of diagnostic concepts and criteria for substance use disorders is presented.

Developmental differences in the impact of contextual factors on susceptibility to retroactive interference.

PubMed

Levy-Gigi, Einat; Vakil, Eli

2010-01-01

The influence of contextual similarity on children's recognition memory performance was examined using a retroactive interference paradigm. In the study, 9- and 12-year-olds were randomly assigned to one of two contextual conditions. In both conditions, target and interfering information were presented in distinctive contexts by using different modalities (pictures and words, respectively). However, in one condition the test was presented in the same context as the target information (picture-word-picture [PWP] condition), whereas in the other condition the test was presented in the same context as the interfering information (picture-word-word [PWW] condition). Performance in these conditions was compared with performance in a noninterference control condition (picture-word [P-W]). As predicted, overall recognition performance in the PWP condition was significantly better than in the PWW condition. However, whereas in the PWP condition there was no age difference in performance, in the PWW condition the 12-year-old group produced significantly more hits and fewer false alarms than the 9-year-old group. The theoretical implications of the results are discussed in reference to the effortful engagement of developmentally dependent executive control processes.

Visual mental image generation does not overlap with visual short-term memory: a dual-task interference study.

PubMed

Borst, Gregoire; Niven, Elaine; Logie, Robert H

2012-04-01

Visual mental imagery and working memory are often assumed to play similar roles in high-order functions, but little is known of their functional relationship. In this study, we investigated whether similar cognitive processes are involved in the generation of visual mental images, in short-term retention of those mental images, and in short-term retention of visual information. Participants encoded and recalled visually or aurally presented sequences of letters under two interference conditions: spatial tapping or irrelevant visual input (IVI). In Experiment 1, spatial tapping selectively interfered with the retention of sequences of letters when participants generated visual mental images from aural presentation of the letter names and when the letters were presented visually. In Experiment 2, encoding of the sequences was disrupted by both interference tasks. However, in Experiment 3, IVI interfered with the generation of the mental images, but not with their retention, whereas spatial tapping was more disruptive during retention than during encoding. Results suggest that the temporary retention of visual mental images and of visual information may be supported by the same visual short-term memory store but that this store is not involved in image generation.

The Many Victims of Substance Abuse

PubMed Central

2007-01-01

Substance abuse is a complicated disorder and has far reaching consequences. The victims of substance abuse extend beyond the unfortunate ones suffering from this disorder and often include family and friends. Treatment options for substance abuse are many; however, positive outcomes are not always guaranteed. Many factors play into the potential for successful treatment. Some of these include the adherence and motivation of the substance abusing patients as well as patients' surrounding environments and support systems. In this article, we present a clinical case of opioid dependence and discuss various treatment options and modalities. We will discuss different variables that may maximize positive treatment outcomes. Also a review of the current literature regarding substance abuse treatment, psychotherapy with the drug abuser, and grief therapy should the substance abusing patient die for the surviving family members will be presented. PMID:20532120

Life Events and Peer Substance Use and Their Relation to Substance Use Problems in College Students

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Taylor, Jeanette

2006-01-01

Substance use disorders among college students are not well understood, and the present study examined the relationship of two environmental factors to alcohol and drug use problems in 616 (316 women) college students. Participants completed measures assessing substance use problems, life events, and substance use among peers. Alcohol use problems…

Triplex DNA formation-mediated strand displacement reaction for highly sensitive fluorescent detection of melamine.

PubMed

Liu, Xiaojuan; Xu, Ningning; Gai, Panpan; Li, Feng

2018-08-01

Since melamine is a strong hazard to human health, the development of new methods for highly sensitive detection of melamine is highly desirable. Herein, a novel fluorescent biosensing strategy was designed for sensitive and selective melamine assay based on the recognition ability of abasic (AP) site in triplex towards melamine and signal amplification by Mg 2+ -dependent DNAzyme. In this strategy, the melamine-induced formation of triplex DNA was employed to trigger the strand displacement reaction (SDR). The SDR process converted the specific target recognition into the release and activation of Mg 2+ -dependent DNAzyme, which could catalyze the cleavage of fluorophore/quencher labeled DNA substrate (FQ), resulting in a significantly increased fluorescent signal. Under the optimal conditions, the fluorescent signal has a linear relationship with the logarithm of the melamine concentration in a wide range of 0.005-50 μM. The detection limit was estimated to be 0.9 nM (0.1ppb), which is sufficiently sensitive for practical application. Furthermore, this strategy exhibits high selectivity against other potential interfering substances, and the practical application of this strategy for milk samples reveals that the proposed strategy works well for melamine assay in real samples. Therefore, this strategy presents a new method for the sensitive melamine assay and holds great promise for sensing applications in the environment and the food safety field. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Direct measurement of glutamate release in the brain using a dual enzyme-based electrochemical sensor.

PubMed

Hu, Y; Mitchell, K M; Albahadily, F N; Michaelis, E K; Wilson, G S

1994-10-03

The in vivo measurement of the rapid changes in the extracellular concentrations of L-glutamic acid in the mammalian brain during normal neuronal activity or following excessive release due to episodes of anoxia or ischemia has not been possible to this date. Current techniques for the measurement of the release of endogenous glutamate into the extracellular space of the central nervous system are relatively slow and do not measure the actual concentration of free glutamate in the extracellular space. An enzyme-based electrode with rapid response times (about 1 s) and high degree of sensitivity (less than 2 microM) and selectivity for L-glutamic acid is described in this paper. This electrode has both L-glutamate and ascorbate oxidase immobilized on its surface. The latter enzyme removes almost completely any interferences produced by the high levels of extracellular ascorbate present in brain tissue. The response of the electrode to glutamate and other potentially interfering substances was fully characterized in vitro and its selectivity, sensitivity and rapidity in responding to a rise in extracellular glutamate concentrations was also demonstrated in vivo. Placement of the electrode in the dentate gyrus of the hippocampus led to the detection of both KCl-induced release of L-glutamic acid and the release induced by stimulation of the axons in the perforant pathway. The development of this selective, sensitive and rapidly responding glutamate sensor should make it now possible to measure the dynamic events associated with glutamate neurotransmission in the central nervous system.

Database for chemical weapons detection: first results

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bellecci, C.; Gaudio, P.; Gelfusa, M.; Martellucci, S.; Richetta, M.; Ventura, P.; Antonucci, A.; Pasquino, F.; Ricci, V.; Sassolini, A.

2008-10-01

The quick increase of terrorism and asymmetric war is leading towards new needs involving defense and security. Nowadays we have to fight several kind of threats and use of chemical weapons against civil or military objectives is one of the most dangerous. For this reason it is necessary to find equipment, know-how and information that are useful in order to detect and identify dangerous molecules as quickly and far away as possible, so to minimize damage. Lidar/Dial are some of the most powerful optical technologies. Dial technology use two different wavelengths, in order to measure concentration profile of an investigated molecule. For this reason it is needed a "fingerprint" database which consists of an exhaustive collection of absorption coefficients data so to identify each molecule avoiding confusion with interfering ones. Nowadays there is not such a collection of data in scientific and technical literature. We used an FT-IR spectrometer and a CO2 laser source for absorption spectroscopy measurements using cells filled with the investigated molecules. The CO2 source is the transmitter of our DIAL facility. In this way we can make a proper "fingerprint" database necessary to identify dangerous molecules. The CO2 laser has been chosen because it is eye safe and, mainly, because it covers a spectral band where there is good absorption for this kind of molecules. In this paper IR spectra of mustard will be presented and compared to other substances which may interfere producing a false alarm. Methodology, experimental setup and first results are described.

Quantitative analysis of benzodiazepines in vitreous humor by high-performance liquid chromatography

PubMed Central

Bazmi, Elham; Behnoush, Behnam; Akhgari, Maryam; Bahmanabadi, Leila

2016-01-01

Objective: Benzodiazepines are frequently screened drugs in emergency toxicology, drugs of abuse testing, and in forensic cases. As the variations of benzodiazepines concentrations in biological samples during bleeding, postmortem changes, and redistribution could be biasing forensic medicine examinations, hence selecting a suitable sample and a validated accurate method is essential for the quantitative analysis of these main drug categories. The aim of this study was to develop a valid method for the determination of four benzodiazepines (flurazepam, lorazepam, alprazolam, and diazepam) in vitreous humor using liquid–liquid extraction and high-performance liquid chromatography. Methods: Sample preparation was carried out using liquid–liquid extraction with n-hexane: ethyl acetate and subsequent detection by high-performance liquid chromatography method coupled to diode array detector. This method was applied to quantify benzodiazepines in 21 authentic vitreous humor samples. Linear curve for each drug was obtained within the range of 30–3000 ng/mL with coefficient of correlation higher than 0.99. Results: The limit of detection and quantitation were 30 and 100 ng/mL respectively for four drugs. The method showed an appropriate intra- and inter-day precision (coefficient of variation < 10%). Benzodiazepines recoveries were estimated to be over 80%. The method showed high selectivity; no additional peak due to interfering substances in samples was observed. Conclusion: The present method was selective, sensitive, accurate, and precise for the quantitative analysis of benzodiazepines in vitreous humor samples in forensic toxicology laboratory. PMID:27635251

Application of derivative and derivative ratio spectrophotometry to simultaneous trace determination of rhodamine B and rhodamine 6G after dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction.

PubMed

Xiao, Ni; Deng, Jian; Huang, Kaihui; Ju, Saiqin; Hu, Canhui; Liang, Jun

2014-07-15

Two novel methods, first derivative spectrophotometric method ((1)D) and first derivative ratio spectrophotometric method ((1)DR), have been developed for the simultaneous trace determination of rhodamine B (RhB) and rhodamine 6G (Rh6G) in food samples after dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction (DLLME). The combination of derivative spectrophotometric techniques and DLLME procedure endows the presented methods with enhanced sensitivity and selectivity. Under optimum conditions, the linear calibration curves ranged from 5 to 450 ng mL(-1), with the correlation coefficients (r) of 0.9997 for RhB and 0.9977 for Rh6G by (1)D method, and 0.9987 for RhB and 0.9958 for Rh6G by (1)DR method, respectively. The calculated limits of detection (LODs) based on the variability of the blank solutions (S/N = 3 criterion) for 11 measurements were in the range of 0.48-1.93 ng mL(-1). The recoveries ranged from 88.1% to 111.6% (with RSD less than 4.4%) and 91.5-110.5% (with RSD less than 4.7%) for (1)D and (1)DR method, respectively. The influence of interfering substances such as foreign ions and food colorants which might be present in the food samples on the signals of RhB and Rh6G was examined. The developed methods have been successfully applied to the determination of RhB and Rh6G in black tea, red wine and chilli powder samples with the characteristics of simplicity, cost-effectiveness, environmental friendliness, and could be valuable for routine analysis. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Application of derivative and derivative ratio spectrophotometry to simultaneous trace determination of rhodamine B and rhodamine 6G after dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xiao, Ni; Deng, Jian; Huang, Kaihui; Ju, Saiqin; Hu, Canhui; Liang, Jun

2014-07-01

Two novel methods, first derivative spectrophotometric method (1D) and first derivative ratio spectrophotometric method (1DR), have been developed for the simultaneous trace determination of rhodamine B (RhB) and rhodamine 6G (Rh6G) in food samples after dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction (DLLME). The combination of derivative spectrophotometric techniques and DLLME procedure endows the presented methods with enhanced sensitivity and selectivity. Under optimum conditions, the linear calibration curves ranged from 5 to 450 ng mL-1, with the correlation coefficients (r) of 0.9997 for RhB and 0.9977 for Rh6G by 1D method, and 0.9987 for RhB and 0.9958 for Rh6G by 1DR method, respectively. The calculated limits of detection (LODs) based on the variability of the blank solutions (S/N = 3 criterion) for 11 measurements were in the range of 0.48-1.93 ng mL-1. The recoveries ranged from 88.1% to 111.6% (with RSD less than 4.4%) and 91.5-110.5% (with RSD less than 4.7%) for 1D and 1DR method, respectively. The influence of interfering substances such as foreign ions and food colorants which might be present in the food samples on the signals of RhB and Rh6G was examined. The developed methods have been successfully applied to the determination of RhB and Rh6G in black tea, red wine and chilli powder samples with the characteristics of simplicity, cost-effectiveness, environmental friendliness, and could be valuable for routine analysis.

Adaptive Arrays for Weak Interfering Signals: An Experimental System. M.S. Thesis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ward, James

1987-01-01

An experimental adaptive antenna system was implemented to study the performance of adaptive arrays in the presence of weak interfering signals. It is a sidelobe canceler with two auxiliary elements. Modified feedback loops, which decorrelate the noise components of the two inputs to the loop correlators, control the array weights. Digital processing is used for algorithm implementation and performance evaluation. The results show that the system can suppress interfering signals which are 0 to 10 dB below the thermal noise level in the main channel by 20 to 30 dB. When the desired signal is strong in the auxiliary elements the amount of interference suppression decreases. The amount of degradation depends on the number of interfering signals incident on the communication system. A modified steering vector which overcomes this problem is proposed.

Work-family conflict and burnout among Chinese female nurses: the mediating effect of psychological capital.

PubMed

Wang, Yang; Chang, Ying; Fu, Jialiang; Wang, Lie

2012-10-29

Burnout among nurses not only threatens their own health, but also that of their patients. Exploring risk factors of nurse' burnout is important to improve nurses' health and to increase the quality of health care services. This study aims to explore the relationship between work-family conflict and burnout among Chinese female nurses and the mediating role of psychological capital in this relationship. This cross-sectional study was performed during the period of September and October 2010. A questionnaire that consisted of the Maslach Burnout Inventory-General Survey (MBI-GS), the work-family conflict scale and the psychological capital questionnaire (PCQ-24) scale, as well as demographic and working factors, was distributed to nurses in Liaoning province, China. A total of 1,332 individuals (effective response rate: 78.35%) became our subjects. Hierarchical linear regression analyses were performed to explore the mediating role of psychological capital. Both work interfering family conflict and family interfering work conflict were positively related with emotional exhaustion and cynicism. However, work interfering family conflict was positively related with professional efficacy whereas family interfering work conflict was negatively related with it. Psychological capital partially mediated the relationship of work interfering family conflict with emotional exhaustion and cynicism; and partially mediated the relationship of family interfering work conflict with emotional exhaustion, cynicism and professional efficacy. Work-family conflict had effects on burnout and psychological capital was a mediator in this relationship among Chinese nurses. Psychological capital was a positive resource for fighting against nurses' burnout.

STUDIES ON BACTERIAL NUTRITION

PubMed Central

Thjötta, Theodor; Avery, O. T.

1921-01-01

The hemophilic bacteria of which Bacillus influenzæ serves as a type require for their growth two distinct and separable substances, both of which are present in blood and neither of which alone suffices. These substances are (a) a vitamine-like substance which can be extracted from red blood corpuscles, from yeast, and from vegetable cells, which is relatively heat-labile and absorbed from solution by certain agents; (b) a so called X substance which is present in red blood cells, is heat-stable, and acts in minute amounts. PMID:19868543

Negative attributions towards people with substance use disorders in South Africa: variation across substances and by gender.

PubMed

Sorsdahl, Katherine; Stein, Dan J; Myers, Bronwyn

2012-08-07

Little research has examined attitudes towards people who use substances in low and middle income countries (LMIC). Therefore, the present study examined the attributions made by the general South African population about people who use substances and whether these attributions differ by the type of substance being used, the gender of the person using the substance, or the characteristics of the person making the attribution. A convenience sample of 868 members of the general public was obtained through street-intercept methods. One of 8 vignettes portraying alcohol, cannabis, methamphetamine or heroin, with either a male or female as the protagonist was presented to each respondent. Respondents' attitudes towards the specific cases were investigated. Respondents held equally negative views of the presented substances, with the exception of the cannabis vignette which was considered significantly less "dangerous" than the alcohol vignette. Respondents were more likely to offer "help" to women who use alcohol, but more likely to suggest "coercion into treatment" for men. Individuals who scored higher on the ASSIST were more likely to hold negative attitudes towards substance users and black African respondents were more likely to offer help to individuals who use substances. The stigma associated with substance use in South Africa is high and not necessarily dependent on the drug of choice. However, a range of factors, including gender of the substance user, and ethnicity of the rater, may impact on stigma. Interventions designed to strengthen mental health literacy and gender-focused anti-stigma campaigns may have the potential to increase treatment seeking behaviour.

Developmental Differences in the Impact of Contextual Factors on Susceptibility to Retroactive Interference

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Levy-Gigi, Einat; Vakil, Eli

2010-01-01

The influence of contextual similarity on children's recognition memory performance was examined using a retroactive interference paradigm. In the study, 9- and 12-year-olds were randomly assigned to one of two contextual conditions. In both conditions, target and interfering information were presented in distinctive contexts by using different…

Adverse Childhood Experiences, Coping Resources, and Mental Health Problems among Court-Involved Youth

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Logan-Greene, Patricia; Tennyson, Robert L.; Nurius, Paula S.; Borja, Sharon

2017-01-01

Background: Mental health problems are gaining attention among court-involved youth with emphasis on the role of childhood adversity, but assessment lags. Objective: The present study uses a commonly delivered assessment tool to examine mental health problems (current mental health problem, mental health interfered with probation goals, and…

Trial-to-trial carry-over of item- and relational-information in auditory short-term memory

PubMed Central

Visscher, Kristina M.; Kahana, Michael J.; Sekuler, Robert

2009-01-01

Using a short-term recognition memory task we evaluated the carry-over across trials of two types of auditory information: the characteristics of individual study sounds (item information), and the relationships between the study sounds (relational information). On each trial, subjects heard two successive broadband study sounds and then decided whether a subsequently presented probe sound had been in the study set. On some trials, the probe item's similarity to stimuli presented on the preceding trial was manipulated. This item information interfered with recognition, increasing false alarms from 0.4% to 4.4%. Moreover, the interference was tuned so that only stimuli very similar to each other interfered. On other trials, the relationship among stimuli was manipulated in order to alter the criterion subjects used in making recognition judgments. The effect of this manipulation was confined to the very trial on which the criterion change was generated, and did not affect the subsequent trial. These results demonstrate the existence of a sharply-tuned carry-over of auditory item information, but no carry-over of relational information. PMID:19210080

Work-family conflict, work- and family-role salience, and women's well-being.

PubMed

Noor, Noraini M

2004-08-01

The author considered both the direct effect and the moderator effect of role salience in the stress-strain relationship. In contrast to previous studies that have examined the effects of salience on well-being within specific social roles, the present study focused on the work-family interface. From a sample of 147 employed English women with children, the present results of the regression analyses showed that both effects are possible, depending on the outcome measures used. The author observed a direct effect of role salience in the prediction of job satisfaction; work salience was positively related to job satisfaction, over and above the main-effect terms of work-interfering-with-family (WIF) conflict and family-interfering-with-work (FIW) conflict. In contrast, the author found a moderator effect of role salience and conflict for symptoms of psychological distress. However, contrary to predictions, the author found that work salience exacerbated the negative impact of WIF conflict, rather than FIW conflict, on well-being. The author discussed these results in relation to the literature on work-family conflict, role salience, and the issue of stress-strain specificity.

Issues in the Treatment of Antisocial Adolescent Substance Abusers.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

McKay, James R.; Buka, Stephen L.

1994-01-01

Presents findings from research programs: first on substance abuse in juvenile offenders/adolescents with psychiatric/behavioral disorders focused on treatment issues (attributions for substance use, beliefs about effects of drugs, perceptions of family functioning); and second on psychiatric disorders in adolescent substance abuse patients…

[Vitamin-resistant rickets cured by removal of a bone tumor. Review of the literature].

PubMed

François, S; Lefort, G; Poli-Merol, M L; Gaillard, D; Roussel, B; Sulmont, V; Daoud, S

1997-01-01

Rickets secondary to bone or soft tissue tumors are rare in children. Majority of the reported cases occurred in adults older than thirty. This entity can be cured after tumor removal. The authors present a case in a ten year boy and literature review. A ten year boy complained of diffuse bone and muscle weakness for two years. A diagnosis of arthritis was made but the patient continued to complain. Serum calcium level was normal (2.33 mmol/l), phosphorus was very low (0.43 mmol/l), serum alkaline phosphatase was high, parathyroid hormone and vitamin D level were normal. Urinalysis showed abnormal phosphate excretion. The absence of malabsorption, no family history of rickets or hypophosphatermy presence of a marked excess of urinary phosphate, very low serum phosphate and normal serum calcium, vitamin D and parathyroid hormone levels led us to consider a diagnosis of tumor induced osteomalacia. Radiographs showed a large round radiolucent lesion in the left superior pubic ramus and generalized demineralisation. We performed a complete tumor resection and the space was filled with bone graft. On histopathologic examination it was a benign mesenchymal tumor. Rapid reversal of biochemical anomalies, radiographs anomalies and clinical manifestation were observed after complete tumor resection. The authors have described the tumor, the osteomalacia and the pathogenesis of tumor rickets. Histologically the most common causative tumors were vascular tumors, mesenchymal tumors and non ossifying tumors. The tumor were of bone or soft tissue origin. Clinical symptoms were muscular weakness, bone and muscle pain. Biochemically there is a very low phosphate level, a normal serum calcium level as well as a normal vitamin D and PTH level. There is a significant high level of urinal phosphate. The mechanism proposed to explain oncogenic osteomalacia includes tumor secretion of phosphaturic substance other than PTH and calcitonin. Another hypothesis is a substance interfering with normal vitamin D metabolism. The pathogenesis is not clearly defined. Regardless to the mechanism of osteomalacia, complete removal of the tumor will cure the patient. A diligent search for tumors should be done in patients with vitamin D resistant rickets.

Antiviral resistance due to deletion in the neuraminidase gene and defective interfering-like viral polymerase basic 2 RNA of influenza A virus subtype H3N2.

PubMed

Trebbien, Ramona; Christiansen, Claus Bohn; Fischer, Thea Kølsen

2018-05-01

Antiviral treatment of influenza virus infections can lead to drug resistance of virus. This study investigates a selection of mutations in the full genome of H3N2 influenza A virus isolated from a patient in treatment with oseltamivir. Respiratory samples from a patient were collected before, during, and after antiviral treatment. Whole genome sequencing of the influenza virus by next generation sequencing, and low-frequency-variant analysis was performed. Neuraminidase-inhibition tests were performed with oseltamivir and zanamivir, and viruses were propagated in sial-transferase gene transfected Madin-Darby Canine Kidney cells. A deletion at amino acid position 245-248 in the neuraminidase gene occurred after initiation of treatment with oseltamivir. The deleted virus had highly reduced inhibition against oseltamivir but was sensitive to zanamivir. Nine days after discontinuation of oseltamivir treatment the deleted H3N2 virus was still present in the patient. After three passages of the deleted virus in cell culture, the deletion was retained. Several variant mutations appeared in the other genes of the H3N2 virus, where most striking were two major out-of-frame deletions in the polymerase basic 2 (PB2) gene, indicating defective interfering-like viral RNA. The viruses harboring the 245-248 deletion in the neuraminidase gene were still present after discontinuation of oseltamivir treatment and passages in cell cultures, indicating a potential risk for transmission of the deleted virus. Full genome deep sequencing was useful to reveal variant mutations that might be selected due to antiviral treatment, and defective interfering-like viral PB2 RNA in the respiratory samples was detected. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Galactosylated magnetic nanovectors for regulation of lipid metabolism based on biomarker-specific RNAi and MR imaging.

PubMed

Heo, Dan; Lee, Chanjoo; Ku, Minhee; Haam, Seungjoo; Suh, Jin-Suck; Huh, Yong-Min; Park, Sahng Wook; Yang, Jaemoon

2015-08-21

The specific delivery of ribonucleic acid (RNA) interfering molecules to disease-related cells is still a critical blockade for in vivo systemic treatment. Here, this study suggests a robust delivery carrier for targeted delivery of RNA-interfering molecules using galactosylated magnetic nanovectors (gMNVs). gMNVs are an organic-inorganic polymeric nanomaterial composed of polycationics and magnetic nanocrystal for delivery of RNA-interfering molecules and tracking via magnetic resonance (MR) imaging. In particular, the surface of gMNVs was modified by galactosylgluconic groups for targeted delivering to asialoglycoprotein receptor (ASGPR) of hepatocytes. Moreover, the small interfering RNAs were used to regulate target proteins related with low-density lipoprotein level and in vivo MR imaging was conducted for tracking of nanovectors. The obtained results show that the prepared gMNVs demonstrate potential as a systemic theragnostic nanoplatform for RNA interference and MR imaging.

Therapeutic implications of small interfering RNA in cardiovascular diseases.

PubMed

Raghunathan, Suchi; Patel, Bhoomika M

2013-02-01

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) place a heavy burden on the economies of low- and middle-income countries. Comprehensive action requires combining approaches that seek to reduce the risks throughout the entire population with strategies that target individuals at high risk or with established disease. Small interfering RNA (siRNA) as a functional mediator for regulation of gene expression has been evaluated for potential therapeutic targets for the treatment of various cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension, atherosclerosis, heart failure etc. The present review attempts have been made to provide a brief outline of the current understanding of the mechanism of RNAi and the delivery system and describe the therapeutic application of siRNAs and their potential for treating CVDs which are taking a heavy toll on human life. © 2012 The Authors Fundamental and Clinical Pharmacology © 2012 Société Française de Pharmacologie et de Thérapeutique.

Predicting employees' well-being using work-family conflict and job strain models.

PubMed

Karimi, Leila; Karimi, Hamidreza; Nouri, Aboulghassem

2011-04-01

The present study examined the effects of two models of work–family conflict (WFC) and job-strain on the job-related and context-free well-being of employees. The participants of the study consisted of Iranian employees from a variety of organizations. The effects of three dimensions of the job-strain model and six forms of WFC on affective well-being were assessed. The results of hierarchical multiple regression analysis revealed that the number of working hours, strain-based work interfering with family life (WIF) along with job characteristic variables (i.e. supervisory support, job demands and job control) all make a significant contribution to the prediction of job-related well-being. On the other hand, strain-based WIF and family interfering with work (FIW) significantly predicted context-free well-being. Implications are drawn and recommendations made regarding future research and interventions in the workplace.

Adaptive Array for Weak Interfering Signals: Geostationary Satellite Experiments. M.S. Thesis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Steadman, Karl

1989-01-01

The performance of an experimental adaptive array is evaluated using signals from an existing geostationary satellite interference environment. To do this, an earth station antenna was built to receive signals from various geostationary satellites. In these experiments the received signals have a frequency of approximately 4 GHz (C-band) and have a bandwidth of over 35 MHz. These signals are downconverted to a 69 MHz intermediate frequency in the experimental system. Using the downconverted signals, the performance of the experimental system for various signal scenarios is evaluated. In this situation, due to the inherent thermal noise, qualitative instead of quantitative test results are presented. It is shown that the experimental system can null up to two interfering signals well below the noise level. However, to avoid the cancellation of the desired signal, the use a steering vector is needed. Various methods to obtain an estimate of the steering vector are proposed.

A steady and oscillatory kernel function method for interfering surfaces in subsonic, transonic and supersonic flow. [prediction analysis techniques for airfoils

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cunningham, A. M., Jr.

1976-01-01

The theory, results and user instructions for an aerodynamic computer program are presented. The theory is based on linear lifting surface theory, and the method is the kernel function. The program is applicable to multiple interfering surfaces which may be coplanar or noncoplanar. Local linearization was used to treat nonuniform flow problems without shocks. For cases with imbedded shocks, the appropriate boundary conditions were added to account for the flow discontinuities. The data describing nonuniform flow fields must be input from some other source such as an experiment or a finite difference solution. The results are in the form of small linear perturbations about nonlinear flow fields. The method was applied to a wide variety of problems for which it is demonstrated to be significantly superior to the uniform flow method. Program user instructions are given for easy access.

Small interfering ribonucleic acid induces liquid-to-ripple phase transformation in a phospholipid membrane

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

Choubey, Amit; Nomura, Ken-ichi; Kalia, Rajiv K.

Small interfering ribonucleic acid (siRNA) molecules play a pivotal role in silencing gene expression via the RNA interference mechanism. A key limitation to the widespread implementation of siRNA therapeutics is the difficulty of delivering siRNA-based drugs to cells. Here, we examine changes in the structure and dynamics of a dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine bilayer in the presence of a siRNA molecule and mechanical barriers to siRNA transfection in the bilayer. Our all-atom molecular dynamics simulation shows that siRNA induces a liquid crystalline-to-ripple phase transformation in the bilayer. The ripple phase consists of a major region of non-interdigitated and a minor region of interdigitatedmore » lipid molecules with an intervening kink. In the ripple phase, hydrocarbon chains of lipid molecules have large compressive stresses, which present a considerable barrier to siRNA transfection.« less

Septonex-tetraphenylborate screen-printed ion selective electrode for the potentiometric determination of Septonex in pharmaceutical preparations.

PubMed

Mohamed, Gehad G; El-Shahat, M F; Al-Sabagh, A M; Migahed, M A; Ali, Tamer Awad

2011-04-07

A screen-printed electrode (SPE) was fabricated for the determination of 1-(ethoxycarbonyl)pentadecyltrimethylammonium bromide (Septonex) based on the use of Septonex-tetraphenylborate as the electroactive substance, and o-nitrophenyloctylether (o-NPOE) as the plasticizing agent. The electrode passes a near-Nernstian cationic slope of 59.33 ± 0.85 mV from activity between pH values of 2 to 9 with a lower detection limit of 9×10(-7) M and response time of about 5 s and exhibits an adequate shelf-life of 6 months. The method was applied for the determination of Septonex in pharmaceutical preparations. A percentage recovery of 99.88% was obtained with RSD=1.24%. The electrode was successfully applied in the determination of Septonex in laboratory-prepared samples by direct potentiometric, calibration curve and standard addition methods. Potentiometric titration of Septonex with sodium tetraphenylborate and phosphotungstic acid as a titrant was monitored with the modified screen-printed electrode as an end-point indicator electrode. Selectivity coefficients for Septonex relative to a number of potential interfering substances were determined. The sensor was highly selective for Septonex over a large number of compounds. Selectivity coefficient data for some common ions show negligible interference; however, cetyltrimethylammonium bromide and iodide ions interfere significantly. The analytical usefulness of the proposed electrode was evaluated by its application in the determination of Septonex in laboratory-prepared pharmaceutical samples with satisfactory results. The results obtained with the fabricated sensor are comparable with those obtained by the British Pharmacopeia method. © The Royal Society of Chemistry 2011

Does breastfeeding influence the risk of developing diabetes mellitus in children? A review of current evidence.

PubMed

Pereira, Patrícia Feliciano; Alfenas, Rita de Cássia G; Araújo, Raquel Maria A

2014-01-01

The aim of this study was to perform a review to investigate the influence of breastfeeding as a protective agent against the onset of diabetes in children. non-systematic review of SciELO, LILACS, MEDLINE, Scopus, and VHL databases, and selection of the 52 most relevant studies. A total of 21 articles, specifically on the topic, were analyzed (nine related to type 1 diabetes and 12 to type 2 diabetes). The duration and exclusivity of breastfeeding, as well as the early use of cow's milk, have been shown to be important risk factors for developing diabetes. It is believed that human milk contains substances that promote the maturation of the immune system, which protect against the onset of type 1 diabetes. Moreover, human milk has bioactive substances that promote satiety and energy balance, preventing excess weight gain during childhood, thus protecting against the development of type 2 diabetes. Although the above mentioned benefits have not been observed by some researchers, inaccuracies on dietary habit reports during childhood and the presence of interfering factors have been considered responsible for the lack of identification of beneficial effects. Given the scientific evidence indicated in most published studies, it is believed that the lack of breastfeeding can be a modifiable risk factor for both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Strategies aiming at the promotion and support of breastfeeding should be used by trained healthcare professionals in order to prevent the onset of diabetes. Copyright © 2013 Sociedade Brasileira de Pediatria. Published by Elsevier Editora Ltda. All rights reserved.

Fate of pathogenic bacteria in microcosms mimicking human body sites.

PubMed

Castellani, Francesco; Ghidini, Valentina; Tafi, Maria Carla; Boaretti, Marzia; Lleo, Maria M

2013-07-01

During the infectious process, pathogens may reach anatomical sites where they are exposed to substances interfering with their growth. These substances can include molecules produced by the host, and his resident microbial population, as well as exogenous antibacterial drugs. Suboptimal concentrations of inhibitory molecules and stress conditions found in vivo (high or low temperatures, lack of oxygen, extreme pH) might induce in bacteria the activation of survival mechanisms blocking their division capability but allowing them to stay alive. These "dormant" bacteria can be reactivated in particular circumstances and would be able to express their virulence traits. In this study, it was evaluated the effect of some environmental conditions, such as optimal and suboptimal temperatures, direct light and antibiotic sub-inhibitory concentrations doses of antibiotic, on the human pathogens Escherichia coli and Enterococcus faecalis when incubated in fluids accumulated in the body of patients with different pathologies. It is shown that inoculation in a number of accumulated body fluids and the presence of gentamicin, reliable conditions encountered during pathological states, induce stress-responding strategies enabling bacteria to persist in microcosms mimicking the human body. Significant differences were detected in Gram-negative and Gram-positive species with E. faecalis surviving, as starved or viable but non-culturable forms, in any microcosm and condition tested and E. coli activating a viable but non-culturable state only in some clinical samples. The persistence of bacteria under these conditions, being non-culturable, might explain some recurrent infections without isolation of the causative agent after application of the standard microbiological methods.

Laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy for the remote detection of explosives at level of fingerprints

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Almaviva, S.; Palucci, A.; Lazic, V.; Menicucci, I.; Nuvoli, M.; Pistilli, M.; De Dominicis, L.

2016-04-01

We report the results of the application of Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) for the detection of some common military explosives and theirs precursors deposited on white varnished car's external and black car's internal or external plastic. The residues were deposited by an artificial silicon finger, to simulate material manipulation by terrorists when preparing a car bomb, leaving traces of explosives on the parts of a car. LIBS spectra were acquired by using a first prototype laboratory stand-off device, developed in the framework of the EU FP7 313077 project EDEN (End-user driven DEmo for CBRNe). The system operates at working distances 8-30 m and collects the LIBS in the spectral range 240-840 nm. In this configuration, the target was moved precisely in X-Y direction to simulate the scanning system, to be implemented successively. The system is equipped with two colour cameras, one for wide scene view and another for imaging with a very high magnification, capable to discern fingerprints on a target. The spectral features of each examined substance were identified and compared to those belonging to the substrate and the surrounding air, and those belonging to possible common interferents. These spectral differences are discussed and interpreted. The obtained results show that the detection and discrimination of nitro-based compounds like RDX, PETN, ammonium nitrate (AN), and urea nitrate (UN) from organic interfering substances like diesel, greasy lubricants, greasy adhesives or oils in fingerprint concentration, at stand-off distance of some meters or tenths of meters is feasible.

The Dual Edema-Preventing Molecular Mechanism of the Crataegus Extract WS 1442 Can Be Assigned to Distinct Phytochemical Fractions.

PubMed

Fuchs, Simone; Bischoff, Iris; Willer, Elisabeth A; Bräutigam, Jacqueline; Bubik, Martin F; Erdelmeier, Clemens A J; Koch, Egon; Faleschini, Maria T; De Mieri, Maria; Bauhart, Milena; Zahler, Stefan; Hensel, Andreas; Hamburger, Matthias; Potterat, Olivier; Fürst, Robert

2017-05-01

The hawthorn ( Crataegus spp.) extract WS 1442 is used against mild forms of chronic heart failure. This disease is associated with endothelial barrier dysfunction and edema formation. We have recently shown that WS 1442 protects against this dysfunction by a dual mechanism: it both promotes endothelial barrier integrity by activation of a barrier-enhancing pathway (cortactin activation) and inhibits endothelial hyperpermeability by blocking a barrier disruptive pathway (calcium signaling). In this study, we aimed to identify the bioactive compounds responsible for these actions by using a bioactivity-guided fractionation approach. From the four fractions generated from WS 1442 by successive elution with water, 95 % ethanol, methanol, and 70 % acetone, only the water fraction was inactive, whereas the other three triggered a reduction of endothelial hyperpermeability. Analyses of intracellular calcium levels and cortactin phosphorylation were used as readouts to estimate the bioactivity of subfractions and isolated compounds. Interestingly, only the ethanolic fraction interfered with the calcium signaling, whereas only the methanolic fraction led to an activation of cortactin. Thus, the dual mode of action of WS 1442 could be clearly assigned to two distinct fractions. Although the identification of the calcium-active substance(s) was not successful, we could exclude an involvement of phenolic compounds. Cortactin activation, however, could be clearly attributed to oligomeric procyanidins with a distinct degree of polymerization. Taken together, our study provides the first approach to identify the active constituents of WS 1442 that address different cellular pathways leading to the inhibition of endothelial barrier dysfunction. Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

Hazardous substances in frequently used professional cleaning products.

PubMed

Gerster, Fabian Melchior; Vernez, David; Wild, Pascal Pierre; Hopf, Nancy Brenna

2014-01-01

A growing number of studies have identified cleaners as a group at risk for adverse health effects of the skin and the respiratory tract. Chemical substances present in cleaning products could be responsible for these effects. Currently, only limited information is available about irritant and health hazardous chemical substances found in cleaning products. We hypothesized that chemical substances present in cleaning products are known health hazardous substances that might be involved in adverse health effects of the skin and the respiratory tract. We performed a systematic review of cleaning products used in the Swiss cleaning sector. We surveyed Swiss professional cleaning companies (n = 1476) to identify the most used products (n = 105) for inclusion. Safety data sheets (SDSs) were reviewed and hazardous substances present in cleaning products were tabulated with current European and global harmonized system hazard labels. Professional cleaning products are mixtures of substances (arithmetic mean 3.5 +/- 2.8), and more than 132 different chemical substances were identified in 105 products. The main groups of chemicals were fragrances, glycol ethers, surfactants, solvents; and to a lesser extent, phosphates, salts, detergents, pH-stabilizers, acids, and bases. Up to 75% of products contained irritant (Xi), 64% harmful (Xn) and 28% corrosive (C) labeled substances. Hazards for eyes (59%) and skin (50%), and hazards by ingestion (60%) were the most reported. Cleaning products potentially give rise to simultaneous exposures to different chemical substances. As professional cleaners represent a large workforce, and cleaning products are widely used, it is a major public health issue to better understand these exposures. The list of substances provided in this study contains important information for future occupational exposure assessment studies.

Hazardous substances in frequently used professional cleaning products

PubMed Central

Gerster, Fabian Melchior; Vernez, David; Wild, Pascal Pierre; Hopf, Nancy Brenna

2014-01-01

Background: A growing number of studies have identified cleaners as a group at risk for adverse health effects of the skin and the respiratory tract. Chemical substances present in cleaning products could be responsible for these effects. Currently, only limited information is available about irritant and health hazardous chemical substances found in cleaning products. We hypothesized that chemical substances present in cleaning products are known health hazardous substances that might be involved in adverse health effects of the skin and the respiratory tract. Methods: We performed a systematic review of cleaning products used in the Swiss cleaning sector. We surveyed Swiss professional cleaning companies (n = 1476) to identify the most used products (n = 105) for inclusion. Safety data sheets (SDSs) were reviewed and hazardous substances present in cleaning products were tabulated with current European and global harmonized system hazard labels. Results: Professional cleaning products are mixtures of substances (arithmetic mean 3.5±2.8), and more than 132 different chemical substances were identified in 105 products. The main groups of chemicals were fragrances, glycol ethers, surfactants, solvents; and to a lesser extent, phosphates, salts, detergents, pH-stabilizers, acids, and bases. Up to 75% of products contained irritant (Xi), 64% harmful (Xn) and 28% corrosive (C) labeled substances. Hazards for eyes (59%) and skin (50%), and hazards by ingestion (60%) were the most reported. Conclusions: Cleaning products potentially give rise to simultaneous exposures to different chemical substances. As professional cleaners represent a large workforce, and cleaning products are widely used, it is a major public health issue to better understand these exposures. The list of substances provided in this study contains important information for future occupational exposure assessment studies. PMID:24804339

Potential misinterpretation of the nutritional value of dietary fiber: correcting fiber digestibility values for nondietary gut-interfering material.

PubMed

Montoya, Carlos A; Henare, Sharon J; Rutherfurd, Shane M; Moughan, Paul J

2016-08-01

The aim of this review is to identify the origin and implications of a nondietary material present in digesta and feces that interferes with the determination of dietary fiber in gastrointestinal contents. Negative values for ileal and fecal digestibility of dietary fiber are commonly reported in the literature for monogastric animal species, including humans. As negative values are not possible physiologically, this suggests the existence of a nondietary material in the gastrointestinal contents and feces that interferes with the accurate determination of dietary fiber digestibility when conventional methods of fiber determination are applied. To date, little attention has been given to this nondietary interfering material, which appears to be influenced by the type and concentration of fiber in the diet. Interestingly, estimates of dietary fiber digestibility increase substantially when corrected for the nondietary interfering material, which suggests that currently reported values underestimate the digestibility of dietary fiber and may misrepresent where, in the digestive tract, fermentation of fiber occurs. A new perspective of dietary fiber digestion in the gastrointestinal tract is developing, leading to a better understanding of the contribution of dietary fiber to health. © The Author(s) 2016. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the International Life Sciences Institute. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Highly sensitive catalytic spectrophotometric determination of ruthenium

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Naik, Radhey M.; Srivastava, Abhishek; Prasad, Surendra

2008-01-01

A new and highly sensitive catalytic kinetic method (CKM) for the determination of ruthenium(III) has been established based on its catalytic effect on the oxidation of L-phenylalanine ( L-Pheala) by KMnO 4 in highly alkaline medium. The reaction has been followed spectrophotometrically by measuring the decrease in the absorbance at 526 nm. The proposed CKM is based on the fixed time procedure under optimum reaction conditions. It relies on the linear relationship where the change in the absorbance (Δ At) versus added Ru(III) amounts in the range of 0.101-2.526 ng ml -1 is plotted. Under the optimum conditions, the sensitivity of the proposed method, i.e. the limit of detection corresponding to 5 min is 0.08 ng ml -1, and decreases with increased time of analysis. The method is featured with good accuracy and reproducibility for ruthenium(III) determination. The ruthenium(III) has also been determined in presence of several interfering and non-interfering cations, anions and polyaminocarboxylates. No foreign ions interfered in the determination ruthenium(III) up to 20-fold higher concentration of foreign ions. In addition to standard solutions analysis, this method was successfully applied for the quantitative determination of ruthenium(III) in drinking water samples. The method is highly sensitive, selective and very stable. A review of recently published catalytic spectrophotometric methods for the determination of ruthenium(III) has also been presented for comparison.

Confocal Raman spectroscopy to trace lipstick with their smudges on different surfaces.

PubMed

López-López, Maria; Özbek, Nil; García-Ruiz, Carmen

2014-06-01

Lipsticks are very popular cosmetic products that can be transferred by contact to different surfaces, being important forensic evidence with an intricate analysis if they are found in a crime scene. This study evaluates the use of confocal Raman microscopy at 780 nm excitation wavelength for the nondestructive identification of 49 lipsticks of different brands and colors, overcoming the lipstick fluorescence problem reported by previous works using other laser wavelengths. Although the lipsticks samples showed some fluorescence, this effect was not so intense to completely overwhelm the Raman spectra. Lipsticks smudges on twelve different surfaces commonly stained with these samples were also analyzed. In the case of the surfaces, some of them provided several bands to the smudge spectra compromising the identification of the lipstick. For these samples spectral subtraction of the interfering bands from the surface was performed. Finally, five different red lipsticks with very similar color were measured on different surfaces to evaluate the lipstick traceability with their smudges even on interfering surfaces. Although previous spectral subtraction was needed in some cases, all the smudged were linked to their corresponding lipsticks even when they are smeared on the interfering surfaces. As a consequence, confocal Raman microscopy using the 780 nm excitation laser is presented as a nondestructive powerful tool for the identification of these tricky samples. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Work-family conflict and burnout among Chinese female nurses: the mediating effect of psychological capital

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Background Burnout among nurses not only threatens their own health, but also that of their patients. Exploring risk factors of nurse’ burnout is important to improve nurses’ health and to increase the quality of health care services. This study aims to explore the relationship between work-family conflict and burnout among Chinese female nurses and the mediating role of psychological capital in this relationship. Methods This cross-sectional study was performed during the period of September and October 2010. A questionnaire that consisted of the Maslach Burnout Inventory-General Survey (MBI-GS), the work-family conflict scale and the psychological capital questionnaire (PCQ-24) scale, as well as demographic and working factors, was distributed to nurses in Liaoning province, China. A total of 1,332 individuals (effective response rate: 78.35%) became our subjects. Hierarchical linear regression analyses were performed to explore the mediating role of psychological capital. Results Both work interfering family conflict and family interfering work conflict were positively related with emotional exhaustion and cynicism. However, work interfering family conflict was positively related with professional efficacy whereas family interfering work conflict was negatively related with it. Psychological capital partially mediated the relationship of work interfering family conflict with emotional exhaustion and cynicism; and partially mediated the relationship of family interfering work conflict with emotional exhaustion, cynicism and professional efficacy. Conclusion Work-family conflict had effects on burnout and psychological capital was a mediator in this relationship among Chinese nurses. Psychological capital was a positive resource for fighting against nurses’ burnout. PMID:23107113

Role of parenting styles in adolescent substance use: results from a Swedish longitudinal cohort study

PubMed Central

Berge, J; Sundell, K; Öjehagen, A; Håkansson, A

2016-01-01

Objective Adolescent substance use is an area of concern because early substance use is associated with a higher risk of adverse outcomes. Parenting style, defined as the general style of parenting, as well as substance-specific parenting practices may influence children's substance use behaviour. The present study aims to probe the impact of parenting style on adolescent substance use. Method A cohort of 1268 adolescents (48% girls), aged 12–13 years at baseline, from 21 junior high schools was assessed in the first semester of junior high school, and then again in the last semester of the 9th grade, 32 months later. Parenting style, operationalised as a fourfold classification of parenting styles, including established risk factors for adolescent substance use, were measured at baseline. Results Neglectful parenting style was associated with worse substance use outcomes across all substances. After adjusting for other proximal risk factors in multivariate analyses, parenting style was found to be unrelated to substance use outcomes with one exception: authoritative parenting style was associated with less frequent drinking. Association with deviant peers, delinquent behaviour, provision of alcohol by parents, and previous use of other substances were associated with substance use outcomes at follow-up. Conclusions The results of the present study indicate that parenting style may be less important for adolescent substance use outcomes than what has previously been assumed, and that association with deviant peers and delinquent behaviour may be more important for adolescent substance use outcomes than general parenting style. PMID:26769781

Memory for Verbally Presented Routes: A Comparison of Strategies Used by Blind and Sighted People.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Easton, R. D.; Bentzen, B. L.

1987-01-01

Congenitally-blind (N=16) and sighted (N=16) young adults listened to descriptions of routes and then finger traced routes through a raised line matrix. Route tracing speed and accuracy revealed that spatial sentence verification interfered with route memory more than abstract/verbal sentence verification for all subjects. (Author/CB)

Dissociation of Short-Term Forgetting from the Passage of Time

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

White, K. Geoffrey

2012-01-01

In many theories, forgetting is closely linked to the passage of time. In the present experiments, recall in a short-term memory task was less accurate when the retention interval included a difficult arithmetic addition task, compared with an easy task. In a novel condition, the interfering task was switched from hard to easy partway through the…

Manual herbicide application methods for managing vegetation in Appalachian hardwood forests

Treesearch

Jeffrey D. Kochenderfer; James N. Kochenderfer; Gary W. Miller

2012-01-01

Four manual herbicide application methods are described for use in Appalachian hardwood forests. Stem injection, basal spray, cut-stump, and foliar spray techniques can be used to control interfering vegetation and promote the development of desirable reproduction and valuable crop trees in hardwood forests. Guidelines are presented to help the user select the...

Semantic Interference during Object Naming in Agrammatic and Logopenic Primary Progressive Aphasia (PPA)

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Thompson, Cynthia K.; Cho, Soojin; Price, Charis; Wieneke, Christina; Bonakdarpour, Borna; Rogalski, Emily; Weintraub, Sandra; Mesulam, M-Marsel

2012-01-01

This study examined the time course of object naming in 21 individuals with primary progressive aphasia (PPA) (8 agrammatic (PPA-G); 13 logopenic (PPA-L)) and healthy age-matched speakers (n=17) using a semantic interference paradigm with related and unrelated interfering stimuli presented at stimulus onset asynchronies (SOAs) of -1000, -500, -100…

A Single-Case Experimental Demonstration of Functional Analytic Psychotherapy with Two Clients with Severe Interpersonal Problems

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Oshiro, Claudia Kami Bastos; Kanter, Jonathan; Meyer, Sonia Beatriz

2012-01-01

Functional Analytic Psychotherapy (FAP) is emerging as an effective psychotherapy for psychiatric clinical cases. However, there is little research demonstrating the process of change of FAP. The present study evaluated the introduction and withdrawal of FAP interventions on therapy-interfering verbal behaviors of two participants who were in…

Substance Abuse Prevention in the Schools: Roles for the School Counselor.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

McLaughlin, T. F.; Vacha, Edward F.

1993-01-01

Examines role of school counselors in prevention and reduction of substance abuse in schools. Presents various roles that school counselors can adopt to prevent and reduce incidence of substance abuse. Provides recommendations for counselors, school administrators, and agencies wanting to assist parents in prevention and reduction of substance use…

Genetically Informative Research on Adolescent Substance Use: Methods, Findings, and Challenges

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lynskey, Michael T.; Agrawal, Arpana; Heath, Andrew C.

2010-01-01

Objective: To provide an overview of the genetic epidemiology of substance use and misuse in adolescents. Method: A selective review of genetically informative research strategies, their limitations, and key findings examining issues related to the heritability of substance use and substance use disorders in children and adolescents is presented.…

40 CFR 721.4100 - Tris(disubstituted alkyl) het-er-o-cy-cle.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

...) TOXIC SUBSTANCES CONTROL ACT SIGNIFICANT NEW USES OF CHEMICAL SUBSTANCES Significant New Uses for... substance is present in a plastic, an elastomer, a rubber matrix, or in a solution. (iii) Industrial... substance imported in a plastic, an elastomer, a rubber matrix, or in a solution, such that inhalation is...

40 CFR 721.4100 - Tris(disubstituted alkyl) het-er-o-cy-cle.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

...) TOXIC SUBSTANCES CONTROL ACT SIGNIFICANT NEW USES OF CHEMICAL SUBSTANCES Significant New Uses for... substance is present in a plastic, an elastomer, a rubber matrix, or in a solution. (iii) Industrial... substance imported in a plastic, an elastomer, a rubber matrix, or in a solution, such that inhalation is...

Reconnaissance samplings and characterization of aquatic humic substances at the Yuma Desalting Test Facility, Arizona

USGS Publications Warehouse

Malcolm, R.L.; Wershaw, R. L.; Thurman, E.M.; Aiken, G.R.; Pinckney, D.J.; Kaakinen, J.

1981-01-01

Smectite clay minerals were found to be the principal compound on the surface of the cellulose-acetate, reverse-osmosis membranes at the Yuma Desalting Test Facility. These clay minerals were not present in the pumped ground water, but were blown into the conveyance canal from adjacent soils. Humic substances from the water and suspended sediments were associated with the clay films on the membrane, but no definitive results concerning their role in fouling were achieved. Microbial fouling is believed to be only a minor aspect of membrane fouling. Chemical and physical changes in humic substances were extensively studied at four points in the water-treatment process. Humic substances accounted for the largest component (over 25 percent) of organic constituents. Humic substances in the canal source water were similar to other aquatic humic substances present in natural waters. During the treatment process, these substances are brominated and decolorized. The effect of these halogenated humic substances on membrane fouling is unclear, but their presence in the reverse-osmosis product water and reverse-osmosis reject brine, along with volatile trihalomethanes, has led to environmental concerns. (USGS)

Composing Interfering Abstract Protocols

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-04-01

Tecnologia , Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Caparica, Portugal. This document is a companion technical report of the paper, “Composing Interfering Abstract...a Ciência e Tecnologia (Portuguese Foundation for Science and Technology) through the Carnegie Mellon Portugal Program under grant SFRH / BD / 33765

A polarization converting device for an interfering enhanced CPT atomic clock.

PubMed

Wang, Kewei; Tian, Yuan; Yin, Yi; Wang, Yuanchao; Gu, Sihong

2017-11-01

With interfering enhanced coherent population trapping (CPT) signals, a CPT atomic clock with improved frequency stability performance can be realized. We explore an optical device that converts single-polarized bichromatic light to left and right circularly polarized superposed bichromatic light to generate interfering enhanced CPT resonance with atoms. We have experimentally studied a tabletop CPT atomic clock apparatus with a microfabricated 87 Rb atomic chip-scale cell, and the study results show that it is promising to realize a compact CPT atomic clock, even a chip-scale CPT atomic clock through microfabrication, with improved frequency stability performance.

A polarization converting device for an interfering enhanced CPT atomic clock

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Kewei; Tian, Yuan; Yin, Yi; Wang, Yuanchao; Gu, Sihong

2017-11-01

With interfering enhanced coherent population trapping (CPT) signals, a CPT atomic clock with improved frequency stability performance can be realized. We explore an optical device that converts single-polarized bichromatic light to left and right circularly polarized superposed bichromatic light to generate interfering enhanced CPT resonance with atoms. We have experimentally studied a tabletop CPT atomic clock apparatus with a microfabricated 87Rb atomic chip-scale cell, and the study results show that it is promising to realize a compact CPT atomic clock, even a chip-scale CPT atomic clock through microfabrication, with improved frequency stability performance.

SMI adaptive antenna arrays for weak interfering signals. [Sample Matrix Inversion

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gupta, Inder J.

1986-01-01

The performance of adaptive antenna arrays in the presence of weak interfering signals (below thermal noise) is studied. It is shown that a conventional adaptive antenna array sample matrix inversion (SMI) algorithm is unable to suppress such interfering signals. To overcome this problem, the SMI algorithm is modified. In the modified algorithm, the covariance matrix is redefined such that the effect of thermal noise on the weights of adaptive arrays is reduced. Thus, the weights are dictated by relatively weak signals. It is shown that the modified algorithm provides the desired interference protection.

Single-chain antibody-delivered Livin siRNA inhibits human malignant melanoma growth in vitro and in vivo.

PubMed

Wang, Hao; Yang, Yifei; Wang, Wei; Guan, Bing; Xun, Meng; Zhang, Hai; Wang, Ziling; Zhao, Yong

2017-05-01

Although gene therapy has brought new insights into the treatment of malignant melanoma, targeting delivery of nucleic acid which targets critical oncogene/anti-oncogene in vivo is still a bottleneck in the therapeutic application. Our previous in vitro studies have found that the oncogene Livin could serve as a potential molecular target by small interfering RNA for gene therapy of malignant melanoma. However, how to transport Livin small interfering RNA into malignant melanoma cells specifically and efficiently in vivo needs further investigation. Cumulative evidence has suggested that single-chain antibody-mediated small interfering RNA targeted delivery is an effective way to silence specific genes in human cancer cells. Indeed, this study designed a protamine-single-chain antibody fusion protein, anti-MM scFv-tP, to deliver Livin small interfering RNA into LiBr cells. Further experiments confirmed the induction of cell apoptosis and suppression of cell proliferation by anti-MM scFv-tP in LiBr cells, along with efficient silence of Livin gene both in vitro and in vivo. Altogether, our findings provide a feasible approach to transport Livin small interfering RNA to malignant melanoma cells which would be a new therapeutic strategy for combating malignant melanoma.

Interactions between amplitude modulation and frequency modulation processing: Effects of age and hearing loss.

PubMed

Paraouty, Nihaad; Ewert, Stephan D; Wallaert, Nicolas; Lorenzi, Christian

2016-07-01

Frequency modulation (FM) and amplitude modulation (AM) detection thresholds were measured for a 500-Hz carrier frequency and a 5-Hz modulation rate. For AM detection, FM at the same rate as the AM was superimposed with varying FM depth. For FM detection, AM at the same rate was superimposed with varying AM depth. The target stimuli always contained both amplitude and frequency modulations, while the standard stimuli only contained the interfering modulation. Young and older normal-hearing listeners, as well as older listeners with mild-to-moderate sensorineural hearing loss were tested. For all groups, AM and FM detection thresholds were degraded in the presence of the interfering modulation. AM detection with and without interfering FM was hardly affected by either age or hearing loss. While aging had an overall detrimental effect on FM detection with and without interfering AM, there was a trend that hearing loss further impaired FM detection in the presence of AM. Several models using optimal combination of temporal-envelope cues at the outputs of off-frequency filters were tested. The interfering effects could only be predicted for hearing-impaired listeners. This indirectly supports the idea that, in addition to envelope cues resulting from FM-to-AM conversion, normal-hearing listeners use temporal fine-structure cues for FM detection.

Substance Abuse Prevention: Maine's 1997 Data Report. County Profiles on Risk and Protection for Substance Abuse Prevention Planning.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Maine State Dept. of Mental Health and Mental Retardation, Augusta.

This document presents uniformly collected data for the State of Maine and each of its counties on selected known risk factors for alcohol and drug abuse and the prevalence of substance abuse-related problems. A "Read Me First" section presents the state's approach to prevention. Information is provided on risk and protective factors,…

Detection of fullerenes (C60 and C70) in commercial cosmetics.

PubMed

Benn, Troy M; Westerhoff, Paul; Herckes, Pierre

2011-05-01

Detection methods are necessary to quantify fullerenes in commercial applications to provide potential exposure levels for future risk assessments of fullerene technologies. The fullerene concentrations of five cosmetic products were evaluated using liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry to separate and specifically detect C60 and C70 from interfering cosmetic substances (e.g., castor oil). A cosmetic formulation was characterized with transmission electron microscopy, which confirmed that polyvinylpyrrolidone encapsulated C60. Liquid-liquid extraction of fullerenes from control samples approached 100% while solid-phase and sonication in toluene extractions yielded recoveries of 27-42%. C60 was detected in four commercial cosmetics ranging from 0.04 to 1.1 μg/g, and C70 was qualitatively detected in two samples. A single-use quantity of cosmetic (0.5 g) may contain up to 0.6 μg of C60, demonstrating a pathway for human exposure. Steady-state modeling of fullerene adsorption to biosolids is used to discuss potential environmental releases from wastewater treatment systems. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Assessment of oxidative stress in serum by d-ROMs test.

PubMed

Kilk, K; Meitern, R; Härmson, O; Soomets, U; Hõrak, P

2014-08-01

Assessment of oxidative stress is an important but technically challenging procedure in medical and biological research. The reactive oxygen metabolites (d-ROMs) test is a simple assay marketed for analyzing the total amount of hydroperoxides in serum via the Fenton's reaction. Earlier reports have raised a suspicion that a part of the signal detected in the assay comes from sources other than metabolites generated by oxidative stress. The aim of this study was to identify which serum components interfere with the d-ROMs signal. By application of sodium azide, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, sodium dodecylsulphate, varying temperature, and spiking endogenous substances we demonstrate that in the case of mammalian sera the assay determines ceruloplasmin (CP) activity with potential interferences from hydroperoxides, iron level, thiols, and albumin. In sera of avian species hydroperoxides contribute more to the test outcome, but the CP part is insensitive to inhibition by azide. In conclusion, this assay has deficiencies in terms of detecting realistic concentrations of hydroperoxides, is mostly measuring CP and is also interfered with other serum components, making it very difficult to interpret in most biological systems.

Prenatal stress in birds: pathways, effects, function and perspectives.

PubMed

Henriksen, Rie; Rettenbacher, Sophie; Groothuis, Ton G G

2011-06-01

Although most work on prenatal stress has been conducted on mammalian species, birds provide useful alternative models since avian embryos develop outside the mother's body in a concealed environment, the egg, which is produced during a short time window of 4-14 days. This facilitates measurement of maternal substances provided for and manipulation of the embryo without interfering with the mother's physiology. We critically review prenatal corticosterone mediated effects in birds by reviewing both studies were females had elevated levels of plasma corticosterone during egg formation and studies applying corticosterone injections directly into the egg. A selected review of the mammalian literature is used as background. The results suggest that besides prenatal exposure to corticosterone itself, maternal corticosterone affects offspring's behaviour and physiology via alteration of other egg components. However, results are inconsistent, perhaps due to the interaction with variation in the post-natal environment, sex, age, developmental mode and details of treatment. The potential role of adaptive maternal programming has not been tested adequately and suggestions for future research are discussed. Copyright © 2011. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Atrogin-1 Deficiency Leads to Myopathy and Heart Failure in Zebrafish.

PubMed

Bühler, Anja; Kustermann, Monika; Bummer, Tiziana; Rottbauer, Wolfgang; Sandri, Marco; Just, Steffen

2016-01-30

Orchestrated protein synthesis and degradation is fundamental for proper cell function. In muscle, impairment of proteostasis often leads to severe cellular defects finally interfering with contractile function. Here, we analyze for the first time the role of Atrogin-1, a muscle-specific E3 ubiquitin ligase known to be involved in the regulation of protein degradation via the ubiquitin proteasome and the autophagy/lysosome systems, in the in vivo model system zebrafish (Danio rerio). We found that targeted inactivation of zebrafish Atrogin-1 leads to progressive impairment of heart and skeletal muscle function and disruption of muscle structure without affecting early cardiogenesis and skeletal muscle development. Autophagy is severely impaired in Atrogin-1-deficient zebrafish embryos resulting in the disturbance of the cytoarchitecture of cardiomyocytes and skeletal muscle cells. These observations are consistent with molecular and ultrastructural findings in an Atrogin-1 knockout mouse and demonstrate that the zebrafish is a suitable vertebrate model to study the molecular mechanisms of Atrogin-1-mediated autophagic muscle pathologies and to screen for novel therapeutically active substances in high-throughput in vivo small compound screens (SCS).

Simultaneous determination of caffeine and paracetamol by square wave voltammetry at poly(4-amino-3-hydroxynaphthalene sulfonic acid)-modified glassy carbon electrode.

PubMed

Tefera, Molla; Geto, Alemnew; Tessema, Merid; Admassie, Shimelis

2016-11-01

Poly(4-amino-3-hydroxynaphthalene sulfonic acid)-modified glassy carbon electrode (poly(AHNSA)/GCE) was prepared for simultaneous determination of caffeine and paracetamol using square-wave voltammetry. The method was used to study the effects of pH and scan rate on the voltammetric response of caffeine and paracetamol. Linear calibration curves in the range of 10-125μM were obtained for both caffeine and paracetamol in acetate buffer solution of pH 4.5 with a correlation coefficient of 0.9989 and 0.9986, respectively. The calculated detection limits (S/N=3) were 0.79μM for caffeine and 0.45μM for paracetamol. The effects of some interfering substances in the determination of caffeine and paracetamol were also studied and their interferences were found to be negligible which proved the selectivity of the modified electrode. The method was successfully applied for the quantitative determination of caffeine and paracetamol in Coca-Cola, Pepsi-Cola and tea samples. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Ebola virus (EBOV) infection: Therapeutic strategies.

PubMed

De Clercq, Erik

2015-01-01

Within less than a year after its epidemic started (in December 2013) in Guinea, Ebola virus (EBOV), a member of the filoviridae, has spread over a number of West-African countries (Guinea, Sierra Leone and Liberia) and gained allures that have been unprecedented except by human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Although EBOV is highly contagious and transmitted by direct contact with body fluids, it could be counteracted by the adequate chemoprophylactic and -therapeutic interventions: vaccines, antibodies, siRNAs (small interfering RNAs), interferons and chemical substances, i.e. neplanocin A derivatives (i.e. 3-deazaneplanocin A), BCX4430, favipiravir (T-705), endoplasmic reticulum (ER) α-glucosidase inhibitors and a variety of compounds that have been found to inhibit EBOV infection blocking viral entry or by a mode of action that still has to be resolved. Much has to be learned from the mechanism of action of the compounds active against VSV (vesicular stomatitis virus), a virus belonging to the rhabdoviridae, that in its mode of replication could be exemplary for the replication of filoviridae. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

A rapid enzymatic assay for high-throughput screening of adenosine-producing strains

PubMed Central

Dong, Huina; Zu, Xin; Zheng, Ping; Zhang, Dawei

2015-01-01

Adenosine is a major local regulator of tissue function and industrially useful as precursor for the production of medicinal nucleoside substances. High-throughput screening of adenosine overproducers is important for industrial microorganism breeding. An enzymatic assay of adenosine was developed by combined adenosine deaminase (ADA) with indophenol method. The ADA catalyzes the cleavage of adenosine to inosine and NH3, the latter can be accurately determined by indophenol method. The assay system was optimized to deliver a good performance and could tolerate the addition of inorganic salts and many nutrition components to the assay mixtures. Adenosine could be accurately determined by this assay using 96-well microplates. Spike and recovery tests showed that this assay can accurately and reproducibly determine increases in adenosine in fermentation broth without any pretreatment to remove proteins and potentially interfering low-molecular-weight molecules. This assay was also applied to high-throughput screening for high adenosine-producing strains. The high selectivity and accuracy of the ADA assay provides rapid and high-throughput analysis of adenosine in large numbers of samples. PMID:25580842

Molecularly imprinted titania nanoparticles for selective recognition and assay of uric acid

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mujahid, Adnan; Khan, Aimen Idrees; Afzal, Adeel; Hussain, Tajamal; Raza, Muhammad Hamid; Shah, Asma Tufail; uz Zaman, Waheed

2015-06-01

Molecularly imprinted titania nanoparticles are su ccessfully synthesized by sol-gel method for the selective recognition of uric acid. Atomic force microscopy is used to study the morphology of uric acid imprinted titania nanoparticles with diameter in the range of 100-150 nm. Scanning electron microscopy images of thick titania layer indicate the formation of fine network of titania nanoparticles with uniform distribution. Molecular imprinting of uric acid as well as its subsequent washing is confirmed by Fourier transformation infrared spectroscopy measurements. Uric acid rebinding studies reveal the recognition capability of imprinted particles in the range of 0.01-0.095 mmol, which is applicable in monitoring normal to elevated levels of uric acid in human blood. The optical shift (signal) of imprinted particles is six times higher in comparison with non-imprinted particles for the same concentration of uric acid. Imprinted titania particles have shown substantially reduced binding affinity toward interfering and structurally related substances, e.g. ascorbic acid and guanine. These results suggest the possible application of titania nanoparticles in uric acid recognition and quantification in blood serum.

Marine actinobacteria as a drug treasure house.

PubMed

Hassan, Syed Shams Ul; Shaikh, Abdul Lateef

2017-03-01

Marine actinobacteria have been considered as a gold mine with respect to great potential regarding their secondary metabolites. Most of the researches have been conducted on actinobacteria's derived secondary metabolites to examine its pharmacological properties. Actinobacteria have a potential to provide future drugs against crucial diseases, such as drug-resistance bacteria, cancer, a range of viral illnesses, malaria, several infections and inflammations. Although, the mode of action of many bio molecules are still untapped, for a tangible number of compounds by which they interfere with human pathogenesis are reported here with detailed diagrammed illustrations. This knowledge is one of the basic vehicles to be known especially for transforming bio medicinal molecules to medicines. Actinobacteria produce a different kind of biochemical substances with numerous carbon skeletons, which have been found to be the main component interfering with human pathogenesis at different sites. Different diseases have the capability to fight at different sites inside the body can lead to a new wave of increasing the chances to produce targeted medicines. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Challenges in using opioids to treat pain in persons with substance use disorders.

PubMed

Savage, Seddon R; Kirsh, Kenneth L; Passik, Steven D

2008-06-01

Pain and substance abuse co-occur frequently, and each can make the other more difficult to treat. A knowledge of pain and its interrelationships with addiction enhances the addiction specialist's efficacy with many patients, both in the substance abuse setting and in collaboration with pain specialists. This article discusses the neurobiology and clinical presentation of pain and its synergies with substance use disorders, presents methodical approaches to the evaluation and treatment of pain that co-occurs with substance use disorders, and provides practical guidelines for the use of opioids to treat pain in individuals with histories of addiction. The authors consider that every pain complaint deserves careful investigation and every patient in pain has a right to effective treatment.

Substance Use among Youth with Currently and Formerly Incarcerated Parents

PubMed Central

Davis, Laurel; Shlafer, Rebecca J.

2017-01-01

Parental incarceration impacts millions of children in the U.S. and has important consequences for youths’ adjustment. Children of incarcerated parents are at risk for a host of negative psychosocial outcomes, including substance abuse problems. Using data from a statewide survey of youth behavior, the effect of both present and past parental incarceration on youths’ report of their substance use behaviors was examined. Both present and past parental incarceration was significantly associated with use of alcohol, tobacco, marijuana, and prescription drugs, as well as substance abuse and dependence. Implications for practice and research are discussed. PMID:29170570

40 CFR 721.8160 - Propanoic acid, 2,2-dimethyl-, ethenyl ester.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... activities, full body chemical protective clothing is required for any worker activity in which the substance... applicable to the other substances weighted by the proportion of each substance present in the total daily...

40 CFR 721.8160 - Propanoic acid, 2,2-dimethyl-, ethenyl ester.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... activities, full body chemical protective clothing is required for any worker activity in which the substance... applicable to the other substances weighted by the proportion of each substance present in the total daily...

40 CFR 721.8160 - Propanoic acid, 2,2-dimethyl-, ethenyl ester.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... activities, full body chemical protective clothing is required for any worker activity in which the substance... applicable to the other substances weighted by the proportion of each substance present in the total daily...

Contributions of attachment style and perceived social support to lifetime use of illicit substances.

PubMed

Caspers, Kristin M; Cadoret, Remi J; Langbehn, Douglas; Yucuis, Rebecca; Troutman, Beth

2005-06-01

Research has shown insecure attachment style is associated with ineffective emotional regulation leading to maladaptive behaviors in adulthood. In the present study, we examined the association between attachment style and illicit substance use within a sample of adoptees (n=148). It was predicted that insecure attachment style would be associated with a higher incidence of lifetime illicit substance use and that perceived social support would mediate this association. Logistic regression analyses showed higher prevalence of illicit substance use among both insecure attachment groups as compared to the secure group. No difference was found between the two insecure types. Perceived social support was found to mediate the association between attachment style and illicit substance use for the insecure-preoccupied group only. The findings from the present study further implicate attachment style in the risk for illicit substance use, as well as preventions designed to identify those at risk for use.

Role of parenting styles in adolescent substance use: results from a Swedish longitudinal cohort study.

PubMed

Berge, J; Sundell, K; Öjehagen, A; Håkansson, A

2016-01-14

Adolescent substance use is an area of concern because early substance use is associated with a higher risk of adverse outcomes. Parenting style, defined as the general style of parenting, as well as substance-specific parenting practices may influence children's substance use behaviour. The present study aims to probe the impact of parenting style on adolescent substance use. A cohort of 1268 adolescents (48% girls), aged 12-13 years at baseline, from 21 junior high schools was assessed in the first semester of junior high school, and then again in the last semester of the 9th grade, 32 months later. Parenting style, operationalised as a fourfold classification of parenting styles, including established risk factors for adolescent substance use, were measured at baseline. Neglectful parenting style was associated with worse substance use outcomes across all substances. After adjusting for other proximal risk factors in multivariate analyses, parenting style was found to be unrelated to substance use outcomes with one exception: authoritative parenting style was associated with less frequent drinking. Association with deviant peers, delinquent behaviour, provision of alcohol by parents, and previous use of other substances were associated with substance use outcomes at follow-up. The results of the present study indicate that parenting style may be less important for adolescent substance use outcomes than what has previously been assumed, and that association with deviant peers and delinquent behaviour may be more important for adolescent substance use outcomes than general parenting style. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://www.bmj.com/company/products-services/rights-and-licensing/

Substance Abuse Treatment: Group Therapy. Treatment Improvement Protocol (TIP) Series 41

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gilbert, Jonathan Max; Hills, Susan; Rife, Mary Lou

2005-01-01

This Treatment Improvement Protocol (TIP) presents an overview of the role and efficacy of group therapy in substance abuse treatment. TIPs are best-practice guidelines for the treatment of substance use disorders that make the latest research in substance abuse treatment available to counselors and educators. The content was generated by a panel…

Take Action on 5 Policies America Must Adopt To Reduce and Prevent Substance Abuse.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Join Together, Boston, MA.

The Join Together National Policy Panel presents five policies that can help communities reduce and prevent substance abuse. They are: (1) compel substance abuse treatment for criminal offenders; (2) ensure that every person who has an addiction gets treatment; (3) make substance abuse prevention an urgent priority in every community; (4) increase…

School, Family, and Peer Factors and Their Association with Substance Use in Hispanic Adolescents

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lopez, Barbara; Wang, Wei; Schwartz, Seth J.; Prado, Guillermo; Huang, Shi; Brown, C. Hendricks; Pantin, Hilda; Szapocznik, Jose

2009-01-01

The purpose of the present study was to examine how relationships among family, school, and peer factors relate to likelihood of substance use in Hispanic adolescents. Results indicated that only perceived peer substance use was directly related to adolescents' own substance use. A significant interaction was found between parental monitoring and…

Substance Abuse in Children of Parents with Mental Illness: Risks, Resiliency, and Best Prevention Practices.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mowbray, Carol T.; Oyserman, Daphna

2003-01-01

Reviews published research on the effects of parental mental illness diagnosis or symptoms on childhood substance abuse. Risk and protective factors for developing a substance use or related disorder in these children are summarized. Recommendations for substance abuse prevention in children of parents with mental illness are presented and used to…

Recovery Coaches and Substance Exposed Births: An Experiment in Child Welfare

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ryan, Joseph P.; Choi, Sam; Hong, Jun Sung; Hernandez, Pedro; Larrison, Christopher R.

2008-01-01

Objectives: Substance exposed infants present a major challenge to child welfare and public health systems. Prenatal substance exposure and continued substance abuse in the home are associated with a wide range of adverse social, emotional, and developmental outcomes. The objective of the current study is to evaluate the use of recovery coaches in…

Toxic Substances Control Act Section 8(e): Frequent Questions

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

Section 8(e) of the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) requires notification to EPA of information that reasonably supports the conclusion that their substances or mixtures presents a substantial risk of injury to health or the environment.

Impact of Substance Use Disorder on Presentation and Short-Term Course of Schizophrenia

PubMed Central

Chakraborty, Rudraprosad; Chatterjee, Arunima; Chaudhury, Suprakash

2014-01-01

The aim of the present study was to compare a cohort of schizophrenia patients with substance use disorder (SUD) with a similar cohort of schizophrenia patients without SUD with regard to sociodemographic variables, clinical variables, psychopathology, anxiety symptoms, depressive symptoms, treatment outcome, and side effect profile of drugs. A total of 143 consecutive inpatients with ICD-10 DCR diagnosis of schizophrenia were included after obtaining informed consent. Patients were evaluated by a semistructured data sheet and Maudsley Addiction Profile. They were then rated by Positive and Negative Symptoms Scale, Calgary Depression Scale, Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale, and Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale at presentation, three weeks, and six weeks. At three weeks and six weeks, they were also evaluated by UKU Side Effect Rating Scale. Substance abuse was detected in 63.6% schizophrenia patients. Nicotine was the commonest substance followed by cannabis and alcohol. Substance users had longer untreated illness and more depressive symptoms at presentation and six-week follow-up. Dual diagnosis patients had difficulty in abstraction at three and six weeks but not at presentation. Schizophrenia patients with SUD had more depressive symptoms. SUD appeared to mask abstraction difficulties at presentation. Schizophrenia patients with SUD should be carefully assessed for presence of depression. PMID:24839596

QUANTITATIVE DETERMINATION OF THE URANIUM CONTENT OF URANIUM ORES TECHNOLOGICAL PRODUCTS BY ION EXCHANGE-COMPLEXON SEPARATION (in Hungarian)

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

Fodor, M.

An ion exchange-complexion separation meihod was developed for the removal of interfering elements in the determination of the uranium content of recovery solutions. By adding (ethylenediamine)tetraacetic acid to the solution, most of the interfering elements can be brought into an anionic complex. Adjusting the soluiion to pH 7 and letting it pass through an Amberlite IRC-50 type cation exchanger of hydrogen form, the uranium remains on the column whereas the interfering elements pass into the effluent. The method was successfully applied in analyzing the recovery solutions of uranium ores. (auth)

HYDRONEPHROSIS IN THE GOAT DUE TO NEOPLASIA. A CASE REPORT.

DTIC Science & Technology

The clinical history, gross and microscopic necropsy findings are presented in a case of hydronephrosis in a goat due to a primary neoplasm of the...urinary tract. The neoplasm, a transitional cell adenocarcinoma, had interfered with urine flow to a degree that hydronephrosis and subsequent uremia resulted. Metastases were found in the regional lymph nodes and lungs. (Author)

On "Stepping Back and Letting Go": The Role of Control in the Success or Failure of Social Studies Simulations

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wright-Maley, Cory

2015-01-01

This comparative case study presents one key challenge that 2 experienced teachers faced when using simulations: control. Simulations are activities that place high demands on teachers, including the ability to anticipate pitfalls in advance, act in multiple capacities, shape the direction of the activity without unduly interfering, and to be…

Language Processing in Children with Cochlear Implants: A Preliminary Report on Lexical Access for Production and Comprehension

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Schwartz, Richard G.; Steinman, Susan; Ying, Elizabeth; Mystal, Elana Ying; Houston, Derek M.

2013-01-01

In this plenary paper, we present a review of language research in children with cochlear implants along with an outline of a 5-year project designed to examine the lexical access for production and recognition. The project will use auditory priming, picture naming with auditory or visual interfering stimuli (Picture-Word Interference and…

Adolescent Substance Abuse: Risk Factors and Prevention Strategies. Maternal & Child Health Technical Information Bulletin.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Werner, Mark J.

The high prevalence of alcohol and substance abuse by adolescents poses a significant threat to the wellness of youth. Adolescents appear to use drugs for a variety of reasons. In addition to the multiple etiologic and risk factors present for substance abuse, there are many pathways teenagers may follow on their way to substance abuse. The…

The Developmental Course of Illicit Substance Use from Age 12 to 22: Links with Depressive, Anxiety, and Behavior Disorders at Age 18

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lansford, Jennifer E.; Erath, Stephen; Yu, Tianyi; Pettit, Gregory S.; Dodge, Kenneth A.; Bates, John E.

2008-01-01

Background: Previous theory and research suggest links between substance use and externalizing behavior problems, but links between substance use and internalizing problems are less clear. The present study sought to understand concurrent links among diagnoses of substance use disorders, internalizing disorders, and behavior disorders at age 18 as…

Understanding the Diverse Needs of Children whose Parents Abuse Substances

PubMed Central

Solis, Jessica M.; Shadur, Julia M.; Burns, Alison R.; Hussong, Andrea M.

2013-01-01

In this review, we consider the potential service needs of children of substance abusing parents based on what we know about the risk outcomes faced by these children and the parenting deficits often present in these families. Importantly, our review does not address the etiological role of parental substance abuse in children's negative outcomes but instead we discuss the complex inter-related risk factors that often co-occur with and exacerbate risk associated with parental alcohol and drug use. We first review studies showing the elevated risk that children of substance abusing parents face in general for poorer academic functioning; emotional, behavioral, and social problems; and an earlier onset of substance use, faster acceleration in substance use patterns, and higher rates of alcohol and drug use disorders. We then review studies showing contextual risk factors for children of substance abusing parents, including parenting deficits (less warmth, responsiveness, and physical and verbal engagement as well as harsher and more over-involved interaction styles), greater risk for child maltreatment, and less secure attachment patterns. We conclude with a discussion of future directions for research and guidelines for professionals working with children and their families where parental substance abuse is present. PMID:22455509

Examining the relationships between life satisfaction and alcohol, tobacco and marijuana use among school-aged children.

PubMed

Lew, D; Xian, H; Qian, Z; Vaughn, M G

2018-05-03

There are many known risk factors associated with youth substance use. Nonetheless, the impact of life satisfaction (LS) on the use of alcohol, tobacco and marijuana by adolescents still remains largely unknown. The present analysis utilized data from the Health Behavior in School-Aged Children 2009-10 US study. Multilevel logistic regression models were used to assess the relationship between LS and individual substance use. Multilevel multinomial regression models examined the relationship with total number of substances used. After controlling for numerous variables associated with substance use, individuals reporting low LS were significantly more likely to ever use tobacco (OR = 1.34, 95% CI = [1.01, 1.78]), alcohol (OR = 1.45, 95% CI = [1.10, 1.92]) and marijuana (OR = 1.98, 95% CI = [1.39, 2.82]). Additionally, students with low LS were significantly more likely to use two substances (OR = 1.90, 95% CI = [1.15, 3.14]) and three substances concurrently (OR = 2.00, 95% CI = [1.27, 3.16]). The present study identified strong associations between LS and individual, as well as concurrent, substance use among adolescents. Interventions aiming to reduce adolescent substance use may benefit from incorporating components to improve LS.

Interference Conditions of the Reconsolidation Process in Humans: The Role of Valence and Different Memory Systems

PubMed Central

Fernández, Rodrigo S.; Bavassi, Luz; Kaczer, Laura; Forcato, Cecilia; Pedreira, María E.

2016-01-01

Following the presentation of a reminder, consolidated memories become reactivated followed by a process of re-stabilization, which is referred to as reconsolidation. The most common behavioral tool used to reveal this process is interference produced by new learning shortly after memory reactivation. Memory interference is defined as a decrease in memory retrieval, the effect is generated when new information impairs an acquired memory. In general, the target memory and the interference task used are the same. Here we investigated how different memory systems and/or their valence could produce memory reconsolidation interference. We showed that a reactivated neutral declarative memory could be interfered by new learning of a different neutral declarative memory. Then, we revealed that an aversive implicit memory could be interfered by the presentation of a reminder followed by a threatening social event. Finally, we showed that the reconsolidation of a neutral declarative memory is unaffected by the acquisition of an aversive implicit memory and conversely, this memory remains intact when the neutral declarative memory is used as interference. These results suggest that the interference of memory reconsolidation is effective when two task rely on the same memory system or both evoke negative valence. PMID:28066212

Interference Conditions of the Reconsolidation Process in Humans: The Role of Valence and Different Memory Systems.

PubMed

Fernández, Rodrigo S; Bavassi, Luz; Kaczer, Laura; Forcato, Cecilia; Pedreira, María E

2016-01-01

Following the presentation of a reminder, consolidated memories become reactivated followed by a process of re-stabilization, which is referred to as reconsolidation. The most common behavioral tool used to reveal this process is interference produced by new learning shortly after memory reactivation. Memory interference is defined as a decrease in memory retrieval, the effect is generated when new information impairs an acquired memory. In general, the target memory and the interference task used are the same. Here we investigated how different memory systems and/or their valence could produce memory reconsolidation interference. We showed that a reactivated neutral declarative memory could be interfered by new learning of a different neutral declarative memory. Then, we revealed that an aversive implicit memory could be interfered by the presentation of a reminder followed by a threatening social event. Finally, we showed that the reconsolidation of a neutral declarative memory is unaffected by the acquisition of an aversive implicit memory and conversely, this memory remains intact when the neutral declarative memory is used as interference. These results suggest that the interference of memory reconsolidation is effective when two task rely on the same memory system or both evoke negative valence.

Interfering with Gendered Development: A Timely Intervention

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Blaise, Mindy

2014-01-01

Instead of relying on colonial and Western developmental logic to understand and research gender, this paper proposes interfering as a strategy toward generating gender knowledges that are more inclusive to other-than-Western concepts and contexts. This paper shows how post-developmental perspectives interfere with psychological and biological…

Adolescent Suicidal Behavior and Substance Use: Developmental Mechanisms

PubMed Central

Dawes, Michael A; Mathias, Charles W; Richard, Dawn M; Hill-Kapturczak, Nathalie; Dougherty, Donald M

2008-01-01

Adolescent suicidal behaviors and substance use are disturbingly common. Research suggests overlap of some of the etiological mechanisms for both adolescent suicidal behavior and substance use, yet clear understanding of the complex relations between these behaviors and their causal underpinnings is lacking. A growing body of evidence and a diathesis model (Mann et al. 1999; Mann, 2003) highlight the importance of impulse control as a proximal risk factor for adolescent suicidal and substance use behaviors. This literature review extends current theory on the relationships between adolescent suicidal behavior and substance use by: (1) examining how, when, and to what extent adolescent development is affected by poor impulse control, stressful life events, substance use behavior, and biological factors; (2) presenting proposed causal mechanisms by which these risk factors interact to increase risk for suicidal behaviors and substance use; and (3) proposing specific new hypotheses to extend the diathesis model to adolescents at risk for suicide and substance use. More specifically, new hypotheses are presented that predict bidirectional relationships between stressful life events and genetic markers of 5-HT dysregulation; substance use behavior and impulsivity; and substance use behavior and suicide attempts. The importance of distinguishing between different developmental trajectories of suicidal and substance use behaviors, and the effects of specific risk and protective mechanisms are discussed. Use of new statistical approaches that provide for the comparison of latent growth curves and latent class models is recommended to identify differences in developmental trajectories of suicidal behavior and substance use. Knowledge gained from these prospective longitudinal methods should lead to greater understanding on the timing, duration, and extent to which specific risk and protective factors influence the outcomes of suicidal behavior and substance use. In turn, findings from these studies should inform researchers who conduct future treatment and prevention studies. PMID:20651946

Homologous interference mediated by defective interfering influenza virus derived from a temperature-sensitive mutant of influenza virus.

PubMed Central

Nayak, D P; Tobita, K; Janda, J M; Davis, A R; De, B K

1978-01-01

A temperature-sensitive group II mutant of influenza virus, ts-52, with a presumed defect in viral RNA synthesis, readily produced von Magnus-type defective interfering virus (DI virus) when passed serially (four times) at high multiplicity in MDBK cells. The defective virus (ts-52 DI virus) had a high hemagglutinin and a low infectivity titer, and strongly interfered with the replication of standard infectious viruses (both ts-52 and wild-type ts+) in co-infected cells. Progeny virus particles produced by co-infection of DI virus and infectious virus were also defective and also had low infectivity, high hemagglutinating activity, and a strong interfering property. Infectious viruses ts+ and ts-52 were indistinguishable from ts-52 DI viruses by sucrose velocity or density gradient analysis. Additionally, these viruses all possessed similar morphology. However, when the RNA of DI viruses was analyzed by use of polyacrylamide gels containing 6 M urea, there was a reduction in the amount of large RNA species (V1 to V4), and a number of new smaller RNA species (D1 to D6) with molecular weights ranging from 2.9 X 10(5) to 1.05 X 10(5) appeared. Since these smaller RNA species (D1 to D6) were absent in some clones of infectious viruses, but were consistently associated with DI viruses and increased during undiluted passages and during co-infection of ts-52 with DI virus, they appeared to be a characteristic of DI viruses. Additionally, the UV target size of interfering activity and infectivity of DI virus indicated that interfering activity was 40 times more resistant to UV irradiation than was infectivity, further implicating small RNA molecules in interference. Our data suggest that the loss of infectivity observed among DI viruses may be due to nonspecific loss of a viral RNA segment(s), and the interfering property of DI viruses may be due to interfering RNA segments (DIRNA, D1 to D6). ts-52 DI virus interfered with the replication of standard virus (ts+) at both permissive (34 degrees C) and nonpermissive temperatures. The infectivity of the progeny virus was reduced to 0.2% for ts+ and 0.05% for ts-52 virus without a reduction in hemagglutinin titer. Interference was dependent on the concentration of DI virus. A particle ratio of 1 between DI virus (0.001 PFU/cell) and infectious virus (1.0 PFU/cell) produced a maximal amount of interference. Infectious virus yield was reduced 99.9% without any reduction of the yield of DI viruses Interference was also dependent on the time of addition of DI virus. Interference was most effective within the first 3 h of infection by infectious virus, indicating interference with an early function during viral replication. Images PMID:702654

Brief Report: Bifactor Modeling of General vs. Specific Factors of Religiousness Differentially Predicting Substance Use Risk in Adolescence

PubMed Central

Kim-Spoon, Jungmeen; Longo, Gregory S.; Holmes, Christopher J.

2015-01-01

Religiousness is important to adolescents in the U.S., and the significant link between high religiousness and low substance use is well known. There is a debate between multidimensional and unidimensional perspectives of religiousness (Gorsuch, 1984); yet, no empirical study has tested this hierarchical model of religiousness related to adolescent health outcomes. The current study presents the first attempt to test a bifactor model of religiousness related to substance use among adolescents (N = 220, 45% female). Our bifactor model using structural equation modeling suggested the multidimensional nature of religiousness as well as the presence of a superordinate general religiousness factor directly explaining the covariation among the specific factors including organizational and personal religiousness and religious social support. The general religiousness factor was inversely related to substance use. After accounting for the contribution of the general religiousness factor, high organizational religiousness related to low substance use, whereas personal religiousness and religious support were positively related to substance use. The findings present the first evidence that supports hierarchical structures of adolescent religiousness that contribute differentially to adolescent substance use. PMID:26043168

Clinical utility of Abbott Precision Xceed Pro® ketone meter in diabetic patients.

PubMed

Yu, Hoi-Ying Elsie; Agus, Michael; Kellogg, Mark D

2011-11-01

Diagnosis and management of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) often rely on the measurement of urine ketones along with blood glucose, anion gap, and pH. These values, however, do not reliably reflect the severity of ketoacidosis. The Abbott Precision Xceed Pro® meter is an FDA-approved device that quantitatively measures β-hydroxybutyrate (BOH) in whole blood. This study was undertaken to determine whether the ketone meter meets the analytical criteria to aid DKA diagnosis and management in the hospital. 54 heparinized venous whole blood BOH concentrations from 27 diabetic patients were measured by the Abbott meter, and compared with the plasma BOH concentrations measured with Stanbio reagent (reference method). Measurements were done in the hospital central laboratory. Of the 54 pairs of specimens analyzed, 17 pairs displayed a difference of >15% between the two methods. Nearly all discrepant points occurred when BOH >5 mmol/L (reference method). Linearity evaluation revealed that the meter is not linear from 0.0 to 8.0 mmol/L, contrary to the claim by the manufacturer. Further, we identified acetoacetate, a metabolite commonly present in DKA patients, as a potential interfering substance for the meter BOH measurement. BOH measurements by the Abbott meter up to 3 mmol/L correlate well with the reference method, but become discrepant above that point. While this characteristic may be useful in the diagnosis of DKA, it may not allow clinicians to serially follow the response to therapy in hospitalized DKA patients with BOH values greater than 5 mmol/L (reference method). © 2011 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Ratiometric sensing of metabolites using dual-emitting ZnS:Mn2+ quantum dots as sole luminophore via surface chemistry design.

PubMed

Gu, Wenliang; Gong, Suqin; Zhou, Yunlong; Xia, Yunsheng

2017-04-15

We herein present an effective and versatile platform for ratiometric sensing of metabolites using intrinsically dual-emitting ZnS:Mn 2+ quantum dots (QDs) as sole reporter. To avoid notoriously non-specific interactions, a special triple-layer "filter screen" around the inorganic QD core is rationally constructed, which is made of oleic acid, cetyltrimethyl ammonium bromide and bio-enzymes. In the presence of the analytes, the in-situ enzymatic H 2 O 2 molecules diffuse and pass through the "filter screen" along the molecule interspace, which then reacts with the inorganic core and leads to more dramatically quenching of the Mn 2+ emission. The ratiometric signal readout is so distinct that can be observed by naked eyes (from orange to violet). In contrast, various coexisting bio-molecules, due to larger size, are well prevented from penetrating the filter screen by steric hindrance effect. So, various potential interfering substances do not disturb the assay. Under optimal conditions, five kinds of the corresponding substrates, namely glucose, cholesterol, lactate, xanthine and uric acid are well quantified by the emission intensity ratio of I 470 /I 615 , and the linear ranges are 0.1-200µM, 0.1-200µM, 1-200µM, 1-200µM and 1-200µM, respectively. The detection limits can even reach quasi-picomole levels. Because of favorable analytical performances (excellent selectivity, appropriate sensitivity and broad linear range), the proposed system can direct assay the analytes in blood without any sample pre-treatment. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The future of uveitis treatment.

PubMed

Lin, Phoebe; Suhler, Eric B; Rosenbaum, James T

2014-01-01

Uveitis is a heterogeneous collection of diseases with polygenic and environmental influences. This heterogeneity presents challenges in trial design and selection of end points. Despite the multitude of causes, therapeutics targeting common inflammatory pathways are effective in treating diverse forms of uveitis. These treatments, including corticosteroids and immunomodulatory agents, although often effective, can have untoward side effects, limiting their utility. The search for drugs with equal or improved efficacy that are safe is therefore paramount. A mechanism-based approach is most likely to yield the future breakthroughs in the treatment of uveitis. We review the literature and provide examples of the nuances of immune regulation and dysregulation that can be targeted for therapeutic benefit. As our understanding of the causes of uveitis grows we will learn how to better apply antibodies designed to block interaction between inflammatory cytokines and their receptors. T-lymphocyte activation can be targeted by blocking co-stimulatory pathways or inhibiting major histocompatibility complex protein interactions. Furthermore, intracellular downstream molecules from cytokine or other pathways can be inhibited using small molecule inhibitors, which have the benefit of being orally bioavailable. An emerging field is the lipid-mediated inflammatory and regulatory pathways. Alternatively, anti-inflammatory cytokines can be provided by administering recombinant protein, and intracellular "brakes" of inflammatory pathways can be introduced potentially by gene therapy. Novel approaches of delivering a therapeutic substance include, but are not limited to, the use of small interfering RNA, viral and nonviral gene therapy, and microparticle or viscous gel sustained-release drug-delivery platforms. Copyright © 2014. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Comparison of the vanadate oxidase method with the diazo method for serum bilirubin determination in dog, monkey, and rat.

PubMed

Ameri, Mehrdad; Schnaars, Henry; Sibley, John; Honor, David

2011-01-01

The most widely used method for bilirubin concentration determination is the diazo method, which measures the color of azobilirubin. The vanadate oxidase method is based on oxidation of bilirubin to biliverdin by vanadate. The objective of this study was to compare total and direct bilirubin concentration ([Bt] and [Bd], respectively) determined by the diazo and vanadate oxidase methods in pooled serum samples from dogs, monkeys, and rats spiked with panels of different concentrations of bilirubin standards. Pooled serum samples from 40 dogs, 40 monkeys, and 60 rats were spiked with either ditaurine conjugates of bilirubin or a standard reference material. The results obtained from both assays were compared using Deming regression analysis. The intra- and interassay precision, expressed as a percentage of the coefficient of variation (%CV), was determined for [Bt] and [Bd], and the mean percentage of recovery was calculated. The vanadate oxidase method displayed an excellent correlation (r  =  0.99-1.00) with the diazo method. Using Deming regression, there were minimal negative or positive constant and proportional biases for [Bt] and [Bd]. The precision studies revealed that the vanadate oxidase method has comparable between-run and within-run CVs to those of the diazo method. The recovery study demonstrated that the diazo method more closely approximates the expected values of [Bt]. In conclusion, the vanadate oxidase method is a simple and rapid method that can be employed as an alternative to the diazo method when interfering substances are present in the serum samples of dog, monkey, and rat.

Retrieval from Episodic Memory: Neural Mechanisms of Interference Resolution

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wimber, Maria; Rutschmann, Roland Marcus; Greenlee, Mark W.; Bauml, Karl-Heinz

2009-01-01

Selectively retrieving a target memory among related memories requires some degree of inhibitory control over interfering and competing memories, a process assumed to be supported by inhibitory mechanisms. Evidence from behavioral studies suggests that such inhibitory control can lead to subsequent forgetting of the interfering information, a…

Teachers' Occupation-Specific Work-Family Conflict

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cinamon, Rachel Gali; Rich, Yisrael; Westman, Mina

2007-01-01

To expand work-family conflict (WFC) research to specific occupations, this study investigated how work and family generic and occupation-specific stressors and support variables related to family interfering with work (F [right arrow] W) and work interfering with family (W [right arrow] F) among 230 Israeli high school teachers. Further expanding…

Role of Family Resources and Paternal History of Substance Use Problems in Psychosocial Adjustment among School-Aged Children

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Peleg-Oren, Neta; Rahav, Giora; Teichman, Meir

2009-01-01

The present study examines the role of family resources (parenting style and family cohesion) and paternal history of substance abuse on the psychosocial adjustment of their school-aged children. Data were collected from 148 children aged 8-11 (72 of fathers with history of substance use disorder, 76 children of fathers with no substance use…

PTSD and Substance Abuse

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-08-01

9 4 INTRODUCTION Substance use disorders (SUD) and Posttraumatic stress disorder ( PTSD ) are some of the most prominent...Fee, F. (in press). Substance use disorder , PTSD , and traumatic brain injury. In J. Vasterling, R. Bryant, T. Keane (Eds). PTSD and Mild Traumatic ...another DoD investigator, on a paper on dissociation, PTSD , and substance use disorder , using DoD Naval Health research data.  Dr. Najavits presented at

Investigation of the use of thermometric titrimetry for the determination of acidic substances in wine.

PubMed

Godinho, O E; Coelho, J A; Chagas, A P; Aleixo, L M

1984-03-01

The use of thermometric titrimetry in the determination of acidic substances in red wine is described. The titration curve obtained in the thermometric titration of red wine with strong base presents two inflections. The stoichiometry corresponding to the first inflection presents good agreement with the so-called "total acidity" of wine, and is proposed for its determination. The second inflection is related to the content of phenolic substances in red wine.

Choice and validation of a near infrared spectroscopic application for the identity control of starting materials. practical experience with the EU draft Note for Guidance on the use of near infrared spectroscopy by the pharmaceutical industry and the data to be forwarded in part II of the dossier for a marketing authorization.

PubMed

Vredenbregt, M J; Caspers, P W J; Hoogerbrugge, R; Barends, D M

2003-11-01

Recently the CPMP/CVMP sent out for consultation the draft Note for Guidance (dNfG) on the use of near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) by the pharmaceutical industry and the data to be forwarded in part II of the dossier for a marketing authorization. We explored the practicability of this dNfG with respect to the verification of the correct identity of starting materials in a generic tablet-manufacturing site. Within the boundaries of the dNfG, a release procedure was developed for 12 substances containing structurally related compounds and substances differing only in particle size. For the method development literature data were also taken into consideration. Good results were obtained with wavelength correlation (WC), applied on raw spectra or second derivative spectra both without smoothing. The defined threshold of 0.98 for raw spectra differentiated between all molecular structures. Both methods were found to be robust over a period of 1 year. For the differentiation between the different particle sizes a subsequent second chemometric technique had to be used. Soft independent modelling of class analogy (SIMCA) with a probability level of 0.01 proved suitable. Internal and external validation I according to the dNfG showed no incorrect rejections or false acceptances. External validation II according to the dNfG was carried out with 95 potentially interfering substances from which 46 were tested experimentally. Macrogol 400 was not distinguished from macrogol 300. For the complete verification of the identity of macrogol 300 test A of the European Pharmacopoeia is needed in addition to the NIRS application. A release procedure developed with WC applied on raw spectra and SIMCA as a second method, which is different from the preferred method of the dNfG, was tested in practice with good results. We conclude that the dNfG has good practicability and that deviations from the preferred methods of the dNfG can also give good differentiation.

[Chemical hazards in the workplace environment of painting restorer].

PubMed

Jezewska, Anna; Szewczyńska, Małgorzata

2012-01-01

This paper presents the results of the identification of chemical substances present in the air in the workplace of painting restorer. Identification tests were carried out in university and museum easel paintings conservation studios. Air samples were taken for testing at various stages of restoration works. In the qualitative analysis chemical substances in the air samples were measured by GC-MSD and HPLC-DAD methods. In the air samples collected during the cleaning of paintings, such substances as aliphatic and aromatic hydrocarbons, acetone, ethanol and terpenes were mainly identified. While the painting was doubled toluene and while varnished, propan-2-ol, propane, butane and substances derived from turpentine and white spirit were mainly emitted. During the course of painting conservation numerous chemical substances that may pose a threat to the worker's health were identified in their breathing zone.

Multicenter evaluation of the performance characteristics of the bayer VERSANT HCV RNA 3.0 assay (bDNA).

PubMed

Elbeik, Tarek; Surtihadi, Johan; Destree, Mark; Gorlin, Jed; Holodniy, Mark; Jortani, Saeed A; Kuramoto, Ken; Ng, Valerie; Valdes, Roland; Valsamakis, Alexandra; Terrault, Norah A

2004-02-01

In this multicenter evaluation, the VERSANT HCV RNA 3.0 Assay (bDNA) (Bayer Diagnostics, Tarrytown, N.Y.) was shown to have excellent reproducibility, linearity, and analytical sensitivity across specimen collection matrices (serum, EDTA, ACD-A), and hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotypes 1 to 6. The VERSANT HCV bDNA Assay has a reportable range of 615 to 7690000 (7.69 x 10(6)) IU/ml. The total coefficient of variation (CV) ranged from 32.4% at 615 IU/ml to 17% at 6.8 x 10(6) IU/ml. The assay was linear across the reportable range. Analytical specificity of 98.8% was determined by testing 999 specimens from volunteer blood donors. Evaluation of HCV genotypes using RNA transcripts of representative clones of 1a, 1b, 2a, 2b, 2c, 3a, 4a, 5a, and 6a and patient specimens showed that the largest difference between genotype 1, upon which the assay is standardized, and non-1 genotypes was within 1.5-fold. Testing of potentially interfering endogenous substances and exogenous substances and conditions found no interference in HCV-positive or HCV-negative specimens except for unconjugated bilirubin at concentrations of >or=20 mg/dl and protein at concentrations of >or=9 g/dl. Biological variability was estimated from 29 clinically stable individuals not on HCV therapy who were tested weekly over an 8-week period. The combined estimate of total (biologic plus assay) variability was 0.15 log(10) standard deviation (CV, 36.1%), a fold change of 2.6. Thus, the observed fold change between any two consecutive HCV RNA measures is expected to be less than 2.6-fold (equivalent to 0.41 log(10) IU/ml) 95% of the time in clinically stable individuals.

A solid-phase microextraction GC/MS/MS method for rapid quantitative analysis of food and beverages for the presence of legally restricted biologically active flavorings.

PubMed

Bousova, Katerina; Mittendorf, Klaus; Senyuva, Hamide

2011-01-01

A method was developed using automated headspace solid-phase microextraction coupled with GC/MS/MS to simultaneously determine the presence of seven biologically active flavoring substances whose levels of use in processed foods is controlled by statutory limits. The method can be applied to identify and quantify the presence of 1,2-benzopyrone (coumarin), beta-asarone, 1-allyl-4-methoxybenzene (estragole), menthofuran, 4-allyl-1 ,2-dimethoxybenzene (methyl eugenol), pulegone, and thujone at levels ranging from 0.5 to 3000 mg/kg. The method has been optimized and validated for three different generic food types categorized on the basis of composition and anticipated use levels of flavorings and food ingredients. The food categories are alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages; semisolid processed foods (e.g., soups, sauces, confectionary, etc.); and solid foods (muesli, bakery products, etc.). The method is simple, inexpensive, and rapid, and eliminates the use of flammable and toxic solvents. There is no sample preparation, and using MSIMS, unequivocal confirmation of identification is achieved even in highly complex matrixes containing many potential interfering volatiles. The method precision for spiked samples ranged from 2 to 21%, with the greatest variability associated with solid matrixes. The LOD and LOQ values were well below 0.1 and 0.5 mg/kg, respectively, in all cases for individual substances, fulfilling requirements for enforcement purposes. The robustness of the method was demonstrated in a small survey of retail samples of four spirits, five flavored milks, three energy drinks, five liqueurs, five soups, 10 sauces, five herbal teas, and three breakfast cereals.

"Like a lots happened with my whole childhood": violence, trauma, and addiction in pregnant and postpartum women from Vancouver's Downtown Eastside.

PubMed

Torchalla, Iris; Linden, Isabelle Aube; Strehlau, Verena; Neilson, Erika K; Krausz, Michael

2015-01-12

Women living in poor and vulnerable neighbourhoods like Vancouver's Downtown Eastside (DTES) face multiple burdens related to the social determinants of health. Many of them struggle with addiction, are involved in the sex trade and experience homelessness and gender-based violence. Such evidence suggests that psychological trauma is also a common experience for these women. The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore themes and subjective perspectives of trauma and gender-based violence in women who lived in an impoverished neighbourhood and struggled with substance use during pregnancy and early motherhood. We interviewed 27 individuals accessing harm reduction services for pregnant and postpartum women in Vancouver, Canada. Key themes that emerged from these women's narratives highlighted the ubiquity of multiple and continuing forms of adversities and trauma from childhood to adulthood, in a variety of contexts, through a variety of offenders and on multiple levels. Both individual and environmental/structural conditions mutually intensified each other, interfering with a natural resolution of trauma-related symptoms and substance use. Women were also concerned that trauma could be passed on from one generation to the next, yet expressed hesitation when asked about their interest in trauma-specific counselling. In offering harm reduction services for poor and marginalized women, it is clear that an understanding of trauma must be integrated. It is recommended that service providers integrate trauma-informed care into their programme in order to offer this service in a trusted environment. However, it is also necessary to shift the focus from the individual to include environmental, social, economic and policy interventions on multiple levels and from issues of drug use and reduction of drug-related harms to include issues of gendered vulnerabilities and human rights.

Effective mRNA Inhibition in PANC-1 Cells in Vitro Mediated via an mPEG-SeSe-PEI Delivery System.

PubMed

Zhang, Yuefeng; Yang, Bin; Liu, Yajie; Qin, Wenjie; Li, Chao; Wang, Lantian; Zheng, Wen; Wu, Yulian

2016-05-01

RNA interference (RNAi)-mediated gene therapy is a promising approach to cure various diseases. However, developing an effective, safe, specific RNAi delivery system remains a major challenge. In this study, a novel redox-responsive polyetherimide (PEI)-based nanovector, mPEG-SeSe-PEI, was developed and its efficacy evaluated. We prepared three mPEG-SeSe-PEI vector candidates for small interfering glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (siGADPH) and determined their physiochemical properties and transfection efficiency using flow cytometry and PEG11.6-SeSe-PEI polymer. We investigated the silencing efficacy of GADPH mRNA expression in PANC-1 cells and observed that PEG11.6-SeSe-PEI/siGADPH (N/P ratio=10) polyplexes possessed the appropriate size and zeta-potential and exhibited excellent in vitro gene silencing effects with the least cytotoxicity in PANC-1 cells. In conclusion, we present PEG11.6-SeSe-PEI as a potential therapeutic gene delivery system for small interfering RNA (siRNA).

Silencing of cytosolic NADP(+)-dependent isocitrate dehydrogenase by small interfering RNA enhances the sensitivity of HeLa cells toward staurosporine.

PubMed

Lee, Su-Min; Park, Sin Young; Shin, Seoung Woo; Kil, In Sup; Yang, Eun Sun; Park, Jeen-Woo

2009-02-01

Staurosporine induces the production of reactive oxygen species, which play an important causative role in apoptotic cell death. Recently, it was demonstrated that the control of cellular redox balance and the defense against oxidative damage is one of the primary functions of cytosolic NADP(+)-dependent isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDPc) by supplying NADPH for antioxidant systems. The present report shows that silencing of IDPc expression in HeLa cells greatly enhances apoptosis induced by staurosporine. Transfection of HeLa cells with an IDPc small interfering RNA (siRNA) markedly decreased activity of IDPc, enhancing the susceptibility of staurosporine-induced apoptosis reflected by DNA fragmentation, cellular redox status and the modulation of apoptotic marker proteins. These results indicate that IDPc may play an important role in regulating the apoptosis induced by staurosporine and the sensitizing effect of IDPc siRNA on the apoptotic cell death of HeLa cells offers the possibility of developing a modifier of cancer chemotherapy.

Functionalization of carbon nanotubes enables non-covalent binding and intracellular delivery of small interfering RNA for efficient knock-down of genes.

PubMed

Krajcik, Rasti; Jung, Adrian; Hirsch, Andreas; Neuhuber, Winfried; Zolk, Oliver

2008-05-02

The lipophilic nature of biological membranes restricts the direct intracellular delivery of potential drugs and molecular probes and makes intracellular transport one of the key problems in gene therapy. Because of their ability to cross cell membranes, single walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) are of interest as carriers of biologically active molecules, such as small interfering RNAs (siRNAs). We developed a strategy for chemical functionalization of SWNTs with hexamethylenediamine (HMDA) and poly(diallyldimethylammonium)chloride (PDDA) to obtain a material that was able to bind negatively charged siRNA by electrostatic interactions. PDDA-HMDA-SWNTs exhibited negligible cytotoxic effects on isolated rat heart cells at concentrations up to 10mg/l. PDDA-HMDA-SWNTs loaded with extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) siRNA were able to cross the cell membrane and to suppress expression of the ERK target proteins in primary cardiomyocytes by about 75%. PDDA-functionalized SWNTs thus present an effective carrier system for applications in siRNA-mediated gene silencing.

Brothers in Arms

PubMed Central

Bhindi, Ravinay; Fahmy, Roger G.; Lowe, Harry C.; Chesterman, Colin N.; Dass, Crispin R.; Cairns, Murray J.; Saravolac, Edward G.; Sun, Lun-Quan; Khachigian, Levon M.

2007-01-01

The past decade has seen the rapid evolution of small-molecule gene-silencing strategies, driven largely by enhanced understanding of gene function in the pathogenesis of disease. Over this time, many genes have been targeted by specifically engineered agents from different classes of nucleic acid-based drugs in experimental models of disease to probe, dissect, and characterize further the complex processes that underpin molecular signaling. Arising from this, a number of molecules have been examined in the setting of clinical trials, and several have recently made the successful transition from the bench to the clinic, heralding an exciting era of gene-specific treatments. This is particularly important because clear inadequacies in present therapies account for significant morbidity, mortality, and cost. The broad umbrella of gene-silencing therapeutics encompasses a range of agents that include DNA enzymes, short interfering RNA, antisense oligonucleotides, decoys, ribozymes, and aptamers. This review tracks current movements in these technologies, focusing mainly on DNA enzymes and short interfering RNA, because these are poised to play an integral role in antigene therapies in the future. PMID:17717148

Monitoring of Air Pollution by Satellites (MAPS), phase 1

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ludwig, C. B.; Malkmus, W.; Griggs, M.; Bartle, E. R.

1972-01-01

Results are reported upon which the design of a satellite remote gas filter correlation (RGFC) instrument can be based. Although a final decision about the feasibility of measuring some of the pollutants with the required accuracy is still outstanding and subject to further theoretical and experimental verifications, viable concepts are presented which permit the initiation of the design phase. The pollutants which are of concern in the troposphere and stratosphere were selected. The infrared bands of these pollutants were identified, together with the bands of interfering gases, and the line parameters of the pollutants as well as interfering gases were generated through a computer program. Radiative transfer calculations (line-by-line) were made to establish the radiation levels at the top of the atmosphere and the signal levels at the detector of the RGFC instrument. Based upon these results the channels for the RGFC were selected. Finally, the problem areas, which need further investigations, were delineated and the supporting data requirements were established.

Multiwavelength pyrometer for gray and non-gray surfaces in the presence of interfering radiation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ng, Daniel L. P. (Inventor)

1994-01-01

A method and apparatus for detecting the temperature of gray and non-gray bodies in the presence of interfering radiation are presented. A gray body has a constant emissivity less than 1 and a non-gray body has an emissivity which varies with wavelength. The emissivity and reflectivity of the surface is determined over a range of wavelengths. Spectra are also measured of the extraneous interference radiation source and the surface of the object to be measured in the presence of the extraneous interference radiation source. An auxiliary radiation source is used to determine the reflectivity of the surface and also the emissivity. The measured spectrum of the surfaces in the presence of the extraneous interference radiation source is set equal to the emissivity of the surface multiplied by a Planck function containing a temperature term T plus the surface reflectivity multiplied by the spectrum of the extraneous interference radiation source. The equation is then solved for T to determine the temperature of the surface.

Semi-automated detection of trace explosives in fingerprints on strongly interfering surfaces with Raman chemical imaging.

PubMed

Tripathi, Ashish; Emmons, Erik D; Wilcox, Phillip G; Guicheteau, Jason A; Emge, Darren K; Christesen, Steven D; Fountain, Augustus W

2011-06-01

We have previously demonstrated the use of wide-field Raman chemical imaging (RCI) to detect and identify the presence of trace explosives in contaminated fingerprints. In this current work we demonstrate the detection of trace explosives in contaminated fingerprints on strongly Raman scattering surfaces such as plastics and painted metals using an automated background subtraction routine. We demonstrate the use of partial least squares subtraction to minimize the interfering surface spectral signatures, allowing the detection and identification of explosive materials in the corrected Raman images. The resulting analyses are then visually superimposed on the corresponding bright field images to physically locate traces of explosives. Additionally, we attempt to address the question of whether a complete RCI of a fingerprint is required for trace explosive detection or whether a simple non-imaging Raman spectrum is sufficient. This investigation further demonstrates the ability to nondestructively identify explosives on fingerprints present on commonly found surfaces such that the fingerprint remains intact for further biometric analysis.

Smoking, alcohol, and substance use and rates of quitting during pregnancy: is it hard to quit?

PubMed Central

Yazici, Ahmet Bulent; Uslu Yuvaci, Hilal; Yazici, Esra; Halimoglu Caliskan, Ebru; Cevrioglu, Arif Serhan; Erol, Atila

2016-01-01

Background Alcohol and substance use is a major health challenge in Turkey, as it is worldwide. Recently, there has been a rapid increase in the number of females using substances and although usage tends to reduce during pregnancy, it is of critical importance to determine its exact level as substance use negatively impacts on the health of both the mother and infant. Aim The aim of the present study was to investigate the frequency of smoking, alcohol, and substance use, and quitting rates during pregnancy. Method This study was conducted on pregnant females in Sakarya, Turkey. A total of 1,082 consecutively presenting females who agreed to participate in the study were evaluated. The study team prepared a sociodemographic data form and adapted the “Introduction” section, derived from the Addiction Profile Index, to cover substance use during pregnancy. Results The substances most frequently used by pregnant females in their previous pregnancies and current pregnancies were cigarettes/tobacco products (11% and 11.8%, respectively), alcohol (0.6% and 0.4%, respectively), and rarely, synthetic cannabinoids (0.3% and 0.2%, respectively). Daily tobacco smokers continued to smoke during pregnancy, with a rate of 42.5%. Based on research into predictors of smoking (cigarettes) in pregnancy, a correlation was found between lifetime smoking and smoking during a previous pregnancy. A similar link was found with respect to alcohol. Conclusion Cigarettes are the most frequently used substance in pregnancy, and to a lesser extent, alcohol and synthetic cannabinoids, also considered to be risky substances. A high incidence of smoking regularly during pregnancy was found in daily smokers. It is recommended that physicians should sensitively ask pregnant females presenting at clinics about all forms of substance use, including alcohol and synthetic cannabinoids, and to include such questions in their routine enquiries. PMID:27785104

An Integrative Spiritual Development Model of Supervision for Substance Abuse Counselors-in-Training

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Weiss Ogden, Karen R.; Sias, Shari M.

2011-01-01

Substance abuse counselors who address clients' spiritual development may provide more comprehensive counseling. This article presents an integrative supervision model designed to promote the spiritual development of substance abuse counselors-in-training, reviews the model, and discusses the implications for counselor education.

Webinar Presentation: Center for Disease Control/Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry’s Role in Children’s Environmental Health

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

This presentation, Center for Disease Control/Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry’s Role in Children’s Environmental Health, was given at the NIEHS/EPA Children's Centers 2015 Webinar Series.

TDS exposure project: relevance of the total diet study approach for different groups of substances.

PubMed

Vin, Karine; Papadopoulos, Alexandra; Cubadda, Francesco; Aureli, Federica; Oktay Basegmez, Hatice Imge; D'Amato, Marilena; De Coster, Sam; D'Evoli, Laura; López Esteban, María Teresa; Jurkovic, Martina; Lucarini, Massimo; Ozer, Hayrettin; Fernández San Juan, Pedro Mario; Sioen, Isabelle; Sokolic, Darja; Turrini, Aida; Sirot, Véronique

2014-11-01

A method to validate the relevance of the Total Diet Study (TDS) approach for different types of substances is described. As a first step, a list of >2800 chemicals classified into eight main groups of relevance for food safety (natural components, environmental contaminants, substances intentionally added to foods, residues, naturally occurring contaminants, process contaminants, contaminants from packaging and food contact materials, other substances) has been established. The appropriateness of the TDS approach for the different substance groups has then been considered with regard to the three essential principles of a TDS: representativeness of the whole diet, pooling of foods and food analyzed as consumed. Four criteria were considered for that purpose (i) the substance has to be present in a significant part of the diet or predominantly present in specific food groups, (ii) a robust analytical method has to be available to determine it in potential contributors to the dietary exposure of the population, and (iii) the dilution impact of pooling and (iv) the impact of everyday food preparation methods on the concentration of the substance are assessed. For most of the substances the TDS approach appeared to be relevant and any precautions to be taken are outlined. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

47 CFR 22.589 - One-way or two-way application requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... transmitter located within 108 kilometers (67 miles) of the proposed transmitter in directions in which the distance to the interfering contour is 76.4 kilometers (47.5 miles) or less, and within 178 kilometers (111 miles) of the proposed transmitter in directions in which the distance to the interfering contour...

47 CFR 22.589 - One-way or two-way application requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... transmitter located within 108 kilometers (67 miles) of the proposed transmitter in directions in which the distance to the interfering contour is 76.4 kilometers (47.5 miles) or less, and within 178 kilometers (111 miles) of the proposed transmitter in directions in which the distance to the interfering contour...

47 CFR 22.589 - One-way or two-way application requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... transmitter located within 108 kilometers (67 miles) of the proposed transmitter in directions in which the distance to the interfering contour is 76.4 kilometers (47.5 miles) or less, and within 178 kilometers (111 miles) of the proposed transmitter in directions in which the distance to the interfering contour...

47 CFR 22.589 - One-way or two-way application requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... transmitter located within 108 kilometers (67 miles) of the proposed transmitter in directions in which the distance to the interfering contour is 76.4 kilometers (47.5 miles) or less, and within 178 kilometers (111 miles) of the proposed transmitter in directions in which the distance to the interfering contour...

47 CFR 22.589 - One-way or two-way application requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... transmitter located within 108 kilometers (67 miles) of the proposed transmitter in directions in which the distance to the interfering contour is 76.4 kilometers (47.5 miles) or less, and within 178 kilometers (111 miles) of the proposed transmitter in directions in which the distance to the interfering contour...

CCSDS - SFCG Efficient Modulation Methods Study at NASA/JPL - Phase 4: Interference Susceptibility

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Martin, W.; Yan, T. Y.; Gray, A.; Lee, D.

1999-01-01

Susceptibility to two types of interfering signals was requested by the SFCG: a pure carrier (single frequency tone)and wide-band RFI (characteristics unspecified). Selecting a broad-band interfering signal is diffuclt because it should represent the types of interference to be found in the space science service bands.

Single Neurons in M1 and Premotor Cortex Directly Reflect Behavioral Interference

PubMed Central

Zach, Neta; Inbar, Dorrit; Grinvald, Yael; Vaadia, Eilon

2012-01-01

Some motor tasks, if learned together, interfere with each other's consolidation and subsequent retention, whereas other tasks do not. Interfering tasks are said to employ the same internal model whereas noninterfering tasks use different models. The division of function among internal models, as well as their possible neural substrates, are not well understood. To investigate these questions, we compared responses of single cells in the primary motor cortex and premotor cortex of primates to interfering and noninterfering tasks. The interfering tasks were visuomotor rotation followed by opposing visuomotor rotation. The noninterfering tasks were visuomotor rotation followed by an arbitrary association task. Learning two noninterfering tasks led to the simultaneous formation of neural activity typical of both tasks, at the level of single neurons. In contrast, and in accordance with behavioral results, after learning two interfering tasks, only the second task was successfully reflected in motor cortical single cell activity. These results support the hypothesis that the representational capacity of motor cortical cells is the basis of behavioral interference and division between internal models. PMID:22427923

Research on the 2nd generation biofuel BIOXDIESEL in aspects of emission of toxic substances in exhaust gases

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Struś, M. S.; Poprawski, W.; Rewolte, M.

2016-09-01

This paper presents results of research of Diesel engines emission of toxic substances in exhaust gases fuelled with a second generation biofuel BIOXDIESEL, which is a blend of Fatty Acid Ethyl Esters obtained from waste resources such waste vegetable and animal fats, bioethanol and standard Diesel fuel. Presented results are very promising, showing that the emission of toxic substances in exhaust gases are significantly reduced when fuelling with BIOXDIESEL fuel in comparison with standard Diesel fuel.

The community reinforcement approach to the treatment of substance use disorders.

PubMed

Smith, J E; Meyers, R J; Miller, W R

2001-01-01

Empirical support is presented for the Community Reinforcement Approach (CRA), a broad-spectrum cognitive-behavioral treatment for substance use disorders. At the core of CRA is the belief that an individual's environment can play a powerful role in encouraging or discouraging drinking and drug use. Consequently, it attempts to rearrange contingencies so that sober behavior is more rewarding than substance-abusing behavior. Originally tested in the early 1970s with a small sample of alcohol-dependent inpatients, it has repeatedly proven to be successful over the years with larger, diverse populations. Empirical backing is also presented for a new variant of CRA that works through family members to engage treatment-resistant individuals into substance abuse treatment.

[Effect of qinghuobaiduyin on the expression of high mobility group box chromosomal protein 1 in macrophage].

PubMed

Li, Ping; Xu, Dan; Luo, Chengqun

2010-07-01

To observe the expression of high mobility group box chromosomal protein 1(HMGB1) in RAW264.7 macrophages after interfering with burning serum and qinghuobaidu-yin (QHBDY), and to find out the endogenous protection mechanism of QHBDY resisting inflammation reaction. RT-PCR was used to detect the expression of HMGB1 in RAW264.7 macrophages after interfering RAW264.7 macrophages with normal SD rat serum, burning SD rat serum, and QHBDY feeding SD rat serum. Small quantity of HMGB1 mRNA was expressed in RAW264.7. The expression of HMGB1 mRNA fluctuated around the standard level after interfering with normal serum of SD rats. The expression of HMGB1 mRNA rose at 3 h, and then decreased to the standard level; at 18 h, it rose rapidly; at 36 h, it reached the peak; and at 48 h, it remained at the high level after interfering with burning serum. The expression of HMGB1 mRNA increased at 3 h, and then decreased to the standard level. At 24 h, it started to rise after interfering with herb serum, and was lower than that of; the burning serum group (P<0.05). Burning serum can increase the expression of HMGB1 mRNA in RAW264.7. QHBDY can decrease the high expression of HMGB1 mRNA in RAW264.7 caused by burning serum.

What are kids getting into these days? A retrospective chart review of substance use presentations to a Canadian pediatric emergency department.

PubMed

Driedger, G Emmi; Dong, Kathryn A; Newton, Amanda S; Rosychuk, Rhonda J; Ali, Samina

2015-07-01

Goals for this study were to characterize the substances being used by youth who presented to an emergency department (ED), their demographic descriptors, and to describe the associated acute morbidity and mortality. We conducted a retrospective review of all youth, ages 10-16 years, who presented to a pediatric ED with complaints related to recreational drug use (n=641) for 2 years ending on December 31, 2009. The median age of patients was 15 years; 56% were female. Six percent of patients were homeless, and 21% were wards of the state. The most frequent ingestions included ethanol (74%), marijuana (20%), ecstasy (19%), and medications (15%). Over one third of patients had ingested two or more substances. Ninety percent of patients were brought to the ED by the emergency medical services; 63% of these activations were by non-acquaintances. Of the 47% of youth who presented with a decreased level of consciousness, half had a Glasgow Coma Scale less than 13. The Canadian Triage and Acuity Scale score was 1 or 2 for 44% of patients. Sixty-eight percent received IV fluids, 42% received medication, and 4% were intubated. The admission rate was 9%. Youth who presented to the ED for substance use represented a socially vulnerable population whose use of recreational substances resulted in high medical acuity and significant morbidity. Improved clinical identification of such high-risk youth and subsequent design of interventions to address problematic substance use and social issues are urgently needed to complement the acute medical care that youth receive.

Protective Predictors of Alcohol Use Trajectories among Canadian Aboriginal Youth

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rawana, Jennine S.; Ames, Megan E.

2012-01-01

Some Aboriginal youth are at disproportionate risk of using substances and developing abuse and dependence disorders. However, not all Aboriginal youth misuse substances and limited research has examined the protective factors conferring against substance use among these youth. The present study aimed to identify protective factors related to the…

Substance Abuse. Policy Statement.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

National Collaboration for Youth, Washington, DC.

This paper presents the policy statement on substance abuse from the National Collaboration for Youth (NCY). The policy statement section lists programs and activities supported by the NCY. A section on background includes a statement of the issue of substance abuse. Areas examined in this section include alcohol abuse and drunk driving among…

The Deliberate Inhalation of Volatile Substances. Series 30, No. 1.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gamage, James R.; Zerkin, E. Lief

This report, prepared by the National Clearinghouse for Drug Abuse Information, presents information on the deliberate inhalation of volatile substances--the treatment modalities, the pharmacology and chemistry of this drug abuse, and the opinions and practices of recognized authorities in the field. Substances which are currently being inhaled to…

Risk Reduction Therapy for Adolescents: Targeting Substance Use and HIV/STI-Risk Behaviors

PubMed Central

McCart, Michael R.; Sheidow, Ashli J.; Letourneau, Elizabeth J.

2014-01-01

This paper describes a family-based intervention for addressing both substance use and unprotected sexual behavior in adolescents presenting for outpatient substance use treatment. The intervention combines contingency management (CM) for adolescent substance use, which is a behavioral intervention modeled on the Community Reinforcement Approach, with a sexual risk reduction protocol that mirrors aspects of the CM model. As a family-based intervention, caregivers attend every session and actively collaborate with the therapist to address their youth’s behavior problems. The treatment is criterion-based with treatment duration determined by the youth’s achievement of reduced substance use and unprotected sexual behavior goals. A case study describes the implementation of this treatment with an adolescent presenting a history of polysubstance use and unprotected sexual intercourse. Following the adolescent and caregiver’s participation in weekly sessions, the adolescent demonstrated improvements in substance use, unprotected sexual behavior, and other behavior problems. Clinical summary data from two outpatient clinics reveal similar positive outcomes for youth receiving the intervention. This paper illustrates the potential utility of an integrated treatment approach targeting substance use and unprotected sexual behavior in an adolescent population. PMID:25419101

Brief report: Bifactor modeling of general vs. specific factors of religiousness differentially predicting substance use risk in adolescence.

PubMed

Kim-Spoon, Jungmeen; Longo, Gregory S; Holmes, Christopher J

2015-08-01

Religiousness is important to adolescents in the U.S., and the significant link between high religiousness and low substance use is well known. There is a debate between multidimensional and unidimensional perspectives of religiousness (Gorsuch, 1984); yet, no empirical study has tested this hierarchical model of religiousness related to adolescent health outcomes. The current study presents the first attempt to test a bifactor model of religiousness related to substance use among adolescents (N = 220, 45% female). Our bifactor model using structural equation modeling suggested the multidimensional nature of religiousness as well as the presence of a superordinate general religiousness factor directly explaining the covariation among the specific factors including organizational and personal religiousness and religious social support. The general religiousness factor was inversely related to substance use. After accounting for the contribution of the general religiousness factor, high organizational religiousness related to low substance use, whereas personal religiousness and religious support were positively related to substance use. The findings present the first evidence that supports hierarchical structures of adolescent religiousness that contribute differentially to adolescent substance use. Copyright © 2015 The Foundation for Professionals in Services for Adolescents. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Contributions à l'Interférométrie spatiale. Astrométrie globale et Détection de Planètes extra-solaires.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thomas, Eric

2000-03-01

En 1992, L'Agence Spatiale Européenne chargeait un comité d'experts d'établir les priorités scientifiques de ses futures grandes missions spatiales. En réponse, ce comité recommandait à l'ESA l'initiation d'un programme en interférométrie avec deux objectifs. Le premier est la réalisation d'observations astrométriques avec des précisions de l'ordre de 10 micro-secondes d'arc et le second, la détection de planètes extra-solaires en interférométrie infrarouge. Dans ce mémoire, après un rappel des grands principes de l'interférométrie, je présente les études de concepts d'interféromètres adaptés à chacun des types de mission identifiés précédemment. Dans une première partie, plusieurs configurations d'interféromètres sont présentées, compatibles avec la mission d'astrométrie globale GAIA et permettant la détection directe des franges dans un plan image. Ces configurations font l'objet d'une analyse comparative, suivie d'une proposition d'architecture pour la configuration retenue. Dans une deuxième partie, je présente l'étude, dans la cadre de la mission DARWIN de l'ESA, d'un concept d'interféromètre dédié à la détection de planètes extra-solaires dans le domaine spectral de l'infrarouge thermique. Les principes de l'interférométrie à frange noire sont rappelés, et les performances en termes de temps d'intégration du concept retenu, composé de 6 télescopes collecteurs de 1.5 m de diamètre en orbite à 1 u.a. du Soleil, sont estimées. La dernière partie de ce mémoire est consacrée à l'étude de l'implantation d'un mode imagerie sur le concept d'instrument identifié pour le mode détection de planètes de la mission DARWIN. L'utilisation d'un seul banc de recombinaison des faisceaux pour réaliser les deux missions est proposée, en ayant rajouté les fonctionnalités propres à l'imagerie par synthèse d'ouverture. Cette partie est complétée par une estimation des performances de la mission imagerie.

Correction partielle des Effets de la Turbulence atmosphérique en Interférométrie optique: Traitement des Données et Développement d'Optiques adaptatives pour l'Interféromètre GI2T

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vérinaud, Christophe

2000-11-01

Dans le domaine de la haute résolution angulaire en astronomie, les techniques de l'interférométrie optique et de l'optique adaptative sont en plein essor. La principale limitation de l'interférométrie est laturbulence atmosphérique qui entraîne des pertes de cohérence importantes, préjudiciables à la sensibilité et à la précision des mesures. L'optique adaptative appliquée à l'interférométrie va permettre un gain en sensibilité considérable. Le but de cette thèse est l'étude de l'influence de l'optique adaptative sur les mesures interférométriques et son application au Grand Interféromètre à DeuxTélescopes (GI2T) situé sur le Mont Calern dans le sud de la France. Deux problèmes principaux sont étudiés de manière théorique par des développements analytiques et des simulations numériques: le premier est le contrôle en temps réel de la variation des différences de marche optique, encore appelée piston différentiel, induite par l'optique adaptative ; le deuxième problème important est la calibration des mesures de contraste des franges dans le cas de la correction partielle. Je limite mon étude au cas d'un interféromètre multi-modes en courtes poses, mode de fonctionnement principal du GI2T également prévu sur le Very Large Telescope Interferometer installé au Cerro Paranal au Chili. Je développe une méthode de calibration des pertes de cohérence spatio-temporelles connaissant la fonction de structure des fronts d'onde corrigés. Je montre en particulier qu'il est possible d'estimer fréquence par fréquence la densité spectrale des images en courtes poses, méthode très utile pour augmenter la couverture du plan des fréquences spatiales dans l'observation d'objets étendus. La dernière partie de ce mémoire est consacrée au développements instrumentaux auxquels j'ai participé. J'ai développé un banc de qualification du système d'optique adaptative à courbure destiné au GI2T et j'ai étudié l'implantation optique de deux systèmes dans la table de recombinaison.

Pretreatment Clinical and Risk Correlates of Substance Use Disorder Patients With Primary Depression*

PubMed Central

Cohn, Amy M.; Epstein, Elizabeth E.; McCrady†, Barbara S.; Jensen, Noelle; Hunter-Reel, Dorian; Green, Kelly E.; Drapkin, Michelle L.

2011-01-01

Objective: The current study examined the distinction between primary and secondary depression among substance use patients to test whether the primary depressed subgroup presents to treatment with a unique profile of clinical and vulnerability characteristics. Method: The heterogeneous sample comprised 286 individuals (76% male) with alcohol and/or drug abuse or dependence (according to criteria from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Third Edition, Revised) across four treatment outcome studies conducted at the alcohol research center at the Rutgers University Center of Alcohol Studies. Participants were classified as having comorbid lifetime history of primary depression (21%), secondary depression (24%), or no depression (55%). Results: Participants in the primary depression and secondary depression groups were comparable in severity of substance use, and both of these groups had more severe substance use problems than the no-depression group. The primary depression group presented with more severe depression histories, higher levels of current depressive symptoms, and higher rates of additional Axis I comorbidity at treatment entry. In terms of vulnerability indices, the primary depression subgroup had a uniquely high family history risk for major depressive disorder; underlying personality vulnerability to depression was also evident in the primary depression group, with higher neuroticism and lower ex-traversion relative to secondary depression patients. Conclusions: The findings suggest that careful assessment of lifetime depression symptoms vis-à-vis substance use history and severity yields important information identifying the primary depression subtype of substance use patients as a group with a unique and more severely affected clinical presentation of depression and other Axis I psychopathology relative to secondary depression patients. Effectiveness of substance use interventions may be augmented with depression treatment for primary depression patients, given their more severe clinical presentation and vulnerability characteristics. PMID:21138705

Substance abuse and mental health visits among adolescents presenting to US emergency departments.

PubMed

Fahimi, Jahan; Aurrecoechea, Adrian; Anderson, Erik; Herring, Andrew; Alter, Harrison

2015-05-01

The objectives of the study were to identify factors associated with adolescent emergency department (ED) visits for substance abuse, including those complicated by mental health (dual diagnosis), and to analyze their effect on ED length of stay (LOS) and disposition. We performed a secondary analysis of ED visits by adolescents (age, 11-24) using the National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey (1997-2010) to identify visits for mental health, substance use, and dual diagnosis. Univariate and multivariate statistics were used to analyze demographic and visit-level factors, factors associated with substance use and dual diagnosis visits, as well as the effects of substance use and mental health conditions on ED LOS and disposition. Substance use and mental health accounted for 2.1% and 4.3% of all adolescent visits, respectively, with 20.9% (95% confidence interval [CI], 18.3%-23.5%) of substance abuse visits complicated by mental health. The factors significantly associated with substance use include the following: male sex, urban location, West region, ambulance arrival, night and weekend shift, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and psychotic disorders. Additional LOS was 89.77 minutes for mental health, 71.33 minutes for substance use, and 139.97 minutes for dual diagnosis visits, as compared with visits where these conditions were not present. Both mental health and substance use were associated with admission/transfer as compared with other dispositions as follows: mental health odds ratio (OR), 5.93 (95% CI, 5.14-6.84); illicit drug use OR, 3.56 (95% CI 2.72-4.64); and dual diagnosis OR, 6.86 (95% CI, 4.67-10.09). Substance abuse and dual diagnosis are common among adolescent ED visits and are strongly associated with increased use of prehospital resources, ED LOS, and need for hospitalization.

Substance use capital: Social resources enhancing youth substance use.

PubMed

Baggio, S; Mohler-Kuo, M; Dupuis, M; Henchoz, Y; Studer, J; N'Goran, A A; Gmel, G

2016-09-01

Social capital is described as a protective factor against youth substance use, but it may also be associated with behaviours that do not enhance health. The present study hypothesized that 'substance use capital', i.e. resources favourable to substance use, is a risk factor for substance use and misuse. We used baseline data from the ongoing Cohort Study on Substance Use Risk Factors (C-SURF) that included a representative sample of young Swiss men (n=5623). Substance use (alcohol, cannabis, 15 illicit drugs, lifetime use, hazardous use and dependence), substance use capital (parental and peer attitudes towards substance use, parental and peer drug use, perceived norms of substance use) and aspects of social capital (relationships with parents and peers) were assessed. Logistic regressions were used to examine the associations between substance-related resources and social resources, and substance use. Results showed that substance-related resources were associated with an increased risk of substance use (OR between 1.25 and 4.67), whereas social resources' associations with substance use were commonly protective but weaker than substance-related resources. Thus, a drug-friendly environment facilitated substance use and misuse. Moreover, the results showed that peer environments were more drug-friendly than familial environments. In conclusion, this study highlighted a concept of 'substance use capital', which may be useful for advancing both theoretical and applied knowledge of substance use. Indeed, substance use is not only associated with a lack of social resources, but also with specific drug-friendly social resources coming from environment and background. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

An update on substance use and treatment following traumatic brain injury.

PubMed

Graham, David P; Cardon, Aaron L

2008-10-01

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a leading cause of mortality and morbidity among young adults. Substance abusers constitute a disproportionate percentage of these patients. A history of substance abuse predicts increased disability, poorer prognosis, and delayed recovery. While consensus in the literature indicates that substance-abuse rates decline following injury, conflicting literature shows a significant history of brain injury in addicts. We reviewed the literature on substance abuse after TBI to explore the state of knowledge on TBI as a risk factor for substance abuse. While recent reviews regarding substance abuse in TBI patients concur that substance-abuse rates decline even after mild TBI, an emerging literature suggests mild TBI may cause subtle impairments in cognitive, executive, and decision-making functions that are often poorly recognized in early diagnosis and treatment. When combined with difficulties in psychosocial adjustment and coping skills, these impairments may increase the risk for chronic substance abuse in a subset of TBI patients. Preliminary results from veterans indicate these patterns hold in a combat-related post-traumatic stress disorder population with TBI. This increasingly prevalent combination presents a specific challenge in rehabilitation. While this comorbidity presents a challenge for the successful treatment and rehabilitation of both disorders, there is sparse evidence to recommend any specific treatment strategy for these individuals. Mild TBI and substance abuse are bidirectionally related both for risks and treatment. Further understanding the neuropsychiatric pathology and different effects of different types of injuries will likely improve the implementation of effective treatments for each of these two conditions.

Neuroscience of attentional processes for addiction medicine: from brain mechanisms to practical considerations.

PubMed

Fadardi, Javad Salehi; Cox, W Miles; Rahmani, Arash

2016-01-01

The present chapter first argues how having a goal for procuring alcohol or other substances leads to the development of a time-binding, dynamic, and goal oriented motivational state termed current concern, as the origin of substance-related attentional bias. Next, it discusses the importance of attentional bias in the development, continuation of, and relapsing to substance abuse. It further proceeds with a review of selective evidence from cognitive psychology that helps account for making decisions about using an addictive substance or refraining from using it. A discussion on the various brain loci that are involved in attentional bias and other kinds of cue reactivity is followed by presenting findings from neurocognitive research. Finally, from an interdisciplinary perspective, the chapter presents new trends and ideas that can be applied to addiction-related cognitive measurement and training. © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The date-delay framing effect in temporal discounting depends on substance abuse.

PubMed

Klapproth, Florian

2012-07-01

In the present study, individuals with substance use disorders (n=30) and non-addicted controls (n=30) were presented with a delay-discounting task with time being described either as dates or as temporal intervals. Three main results were obtained. First, in both groups reward size had a large impact on discounting future rewards, with discount rates becoming larger with smaller reward sizes. Second, participants discounted future rewards less strongly when their time of delivery was presented as a date instead of a temporal distance. Third, whereas discount rates of individuals with substance use disorders varied substantially with regard to the presentation of time in the task, the controls changed their choices depending on time presentation only slightly. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Substance Use Patterns Among Adolescents in Europe: A Latent Class Analysis.

PubMed

Göbel, Kristin; Scheithauer, Herbert; Bräker, Astrid-Britta; Jonkman, Harrie; Soellner, Renate

2016-07-28

Several researchers have investigated substance use patterns using a latent class analysis; however, hardly no studies exist on substance use patterns across countries. Adolescent substance use patterns, demographic factors, and international differences in the prevalence of substance use patterns were explored. Data from 25 European countries were used to identify patterns of adolescent (12-16 years, 50.6% female) substance use (N = 33,566). Latent class analysis revealed four substance use classes: nonusers (68%), low-alcohol users (recent use of beer, wine, and alcopops; 16.1%), alcohol users (recent use of alcohol and lifetime use of marijuana; 11.2%), and polysubstance users (recent use of alcohol, marijuana, and other illicit drugs; 4.7%). Results support a general pattern of adolescent substance use across all countries; however, the prevalence rates of use patterns vary for each country. The present research provides insight into substance use patterns across Europe by using a large international adolescent sample, multidimensional indicators and a variety of substances. Substance use patterns are helpful when targeting policy and prevention strategies.

40 CFR 355.16 - How do I determine the quantity of extremely hazardous substances present for certain forms of...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... quantity of extremely hazardous substance present: (a) Solid in powdered form with a particle size less than 100 microns. Multiply the weight percent of solid with a particle size less than 100 microns in a...

40 CFR 355.16 - How do I determine the quantity of extremely hazardous substances present for certain forms of...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... quantity of extremely hazardous substance present: (a) Solid in powdered form with a particle size less than 100 microns. Multiply the weight percent of solid with a particle size less than 100 microns in a...

40 CFR 355.16 - How do I determine the quantity of extremely hazardous substances present for certain forms of...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... quantity of extremely hazardous substance present: (a) Solid in powdered form with a particle size less than 100 microns. Multiply the weight percent of solid with a particle size less than 100 microns in a...

40 CFR 355.16 - How do I determine the quantity of extremely hazardous substances present for certain forms of...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... quantity of extremely hazardous substance present: (a) Solid in powdered form with a particle size less than 100 microns. Multiply the weight percent of solid with a particle size less than 100 microns in a...

40 CFR 355.16 - How do I determine the quantity of extremely hazardous substances present for certain forms of...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... quantity of extremely hazardous substance present: (a) Solid in powdered form with a particle size less than 100 microns. Multiply the weight percent of solid with a particle size less than 100 microns in a...

The impact of educational interventions on attitudes of emergency department staff towards patients with substance-related presentations: a quantitative systematic review.

PubMed

Gonzalez, Miriam; Clarke, Diana E; Pereira, Asha; Boyce-Gaudreau, Krystal; Waldman, Celeste; Demczuk, Lisa; Legare, Carol

2017-08-01

Visits to emergency departments for substance use/abuse are common worldwide. However, emergency department health care providers perceive substance-using patients as a challenging group to manage which can lead to negative attitudes. Providing education or experience-based exercises may impact positively on behaviors towards this patient population. Whether staff attitudes are similarly impacted by knowledge acquired through educational interventions remains unknown. To synthesize available evidence on the relationship between new knowledge gained through substance use educational interventions and emergency department health care providers' attitudes towards patients with substance-related presentations. Health care providers working in urban and rural emergency departments of healthcare facilities worldwide providing care to adult patients with substance-related presentations. Quantitative papers examining the impact of substance use educational interventions on health care providers' attitudes towards substance using patients. Experimental and non-experimental study designs. Emergency department staff attitudes towards patients presenting with substance use/abuse. A three-step search strategy was conducted in August 2015 with a search update in March 2017. Studies published since 1995 in English, French or Spanish were considered for inclusion. Two reviewers assessed studies for methodological quality using critical appraisal checklists from the Joanna Briggs Institute Meta-Analysis of Statistics Assessment and Review Instrument (JBI-MAStARI). Reviewers agreed on JBI-MAStARI methodological criteria a study must meet in order to be included in the review (e.g. appropriate use of statistical analysis). The data extraction instrument from JBI-MAStARI was used. As statistical pooling of the data was not possible, the findings are presented in narrative form. A total of 900 articles were identified as relevant for this review. Following abstract and full text screening, four articles were selected and assessed for methodological quality. One article met methodological criteria for inclusion in the review: use of random assignment and comparable study groups and measurement outcomes in a reliable and consistent manner. The included study was a cluster randomized controlled trial. Participants were emergency medicine residents with a mean age of 30 years. The study assessed the impact of a skills-based educational intervention on residents' attitudes, knowledge and practice towards patients with alcohol problems. While knowledge and practice behaviors improved one year following the intervention, there were no significant differences between groups on attitudinal measures. Employing educational interventions to improve the attitudes of emergency department staff towards individuals with drug and alcohol related presentations is not supported by evidence.

Presentations due to acute toxicity of psychoactive substances in an urban emergency department in Switzerland: a case series.

PubMed

Liakoni, Evangelia; Dolder, Patrick C; Rentsch, Katharina M; Liechti, Matthias E

2016-05-26

Although the recreational use of psychoactive substances is common there is only limited systematic collection of data on acute drug toxicity or hospital presentations, in particular regarding novel psychoactive substances (NPS) that have emerged on the illicit market in the last years. We included all cases presenting at the emergency department (ED) of the University Hospital of Basel, Switzerland, between October 2014 and September 2015 with acute toxicity due to self-reported recreational drug use or with symptoms/signs consistent with acute toxicity. Intoxications were confirmed using immunoassays and LC-MS/MS, detecting also novel psychoactive substances. Among the 50'624 attendances at the ED, 210 were directly related to acute toxicity of recreational drugs. The mean patient age was 33 years and 73 % were male. Analytical drug confirmation was available in 136 cases. Most presentations were reportedly related to cocaine (33 %), cannabis (32 %), and heroin (14 %). The most commonly analytically detected substances were cannabis (33 %), cocaine (27 %), and opioids excluding methadone (19 %). There were only two NPS cases; a severe intoxication with paramethoxymethamphetamine (PMMA) in combination with other substances and an intoxication of minor severity with 2,5-dimethoxy-4-propylphenethylamine (2C-P). The most frequent symptoms were tachycardia (28 %), anxiety (23 %), nausea or vomiting (18 %), and agitation (17 %). Severe complications included two fatalities, two acute myocardial infarctions, seizures (13 cases), and psychosis (six cases). Most patients (76 %) were discharged home, 10 % were admitted to intensive care, and 2 % were referred to psychiatric care. Most medical problems related to illicit drugs concerned cocaine and cannabis and mainly included sympathomimetic toxicity and/or psychiatric disorders confirming data from the prior year. Importantly, despite the dramatic increase in various NPS being detected in the last years, these substances were infrequently associated with ED presentations compared with classic recreational drugs.

A study on substance abuse among school going male adolescents of Doiwala Block, District Dehradun.

PubMed

Saxena, Vartika; Saxena, Yogesh; Kishore, Gaurav; Kumar, Pratap

2010-01-01

Adolescent boys are recognized as a vulnerable group to substance abuse. The present study has the objective to study the biosocial profile and habit pattern of substance abusers. The study was conducted on 511 male adolescents, students of 10 th to 12 th class from the four intermediate schools of the Doiwala block of Dehradun district. 46.9% students accepted substance abuse. In 75.5% cases, friends were providing the substances. 80.2% substance abusers expressed their desire to quit the habit. The study is indicative of need for developing a supportive environment involving both parents and teachers so that adolescent can decide and sustain with the right choices for healthy life.

Neuroactive substances in the human vestibular end organs.

PubMed

Usami, S; Matsubara, A; Shinkawa, H; Matsunaga, T; Kanzaki, J

1995-01-01

In order to evaluate the involvement of neuroactive substances in the human vestibular periphery, the immunocytochemical distribution of substance P (SP), calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), and choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) was examined. SP-like immunoreactivity (LI) was present around and beneath sensory hair cells, probably corresponding to their afferent nerve endings. SP-LI was found predominantly in subpopulations of the primary afferents distributed in the peripheral region of the end organs. ChAT-LI and CGRP-LI were found throughout as small puncta below the hair cell layer, probably corresponding to efferent endings. The present results indicate that these neuroactive substances, previously described in animals, are also distributed in the human vestibular periphery, and almost certainly contribute to human vestibular function.

Mood and Substance Use Disorders among Adults Seeking Speech Treatment for Stuttering

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Iverach, Lisa; Jones, Mark; O'Brian, Sue; Block, Susan; Lincoln, Michelle; Harrison, Elisabeth; Hewat, Sally; Menzies, Ross G.; Packman, Ann; Onslow, Mark

2010-01-01

Objectives: Stuttering has been associated with a range of anxiety disorders, including social phobia. In the general community, anxiety disorders are frequently associated with increased rates of mood and substance use disorders. Therefore, in the present study, the authors sought to determine the rate of mood and substance use disorders among…

Measuring the Impact of Substance Abuse on Student Academic Achievement and Academic Growth

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rattermann, Mary Jo

2014-01-01

This research presents data linking the impact of substance disorder to academic achievement, using data gathered at a recovery high school. Recovery schools provide recovery supports and a high-quality education to students with substance use disorders. The Global Appraisal of Individual Needs -- Short Screener and the Northwest Evaluation…

Stress and Substance Use among Asian American and Latino College Students

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ratanasiripong, Paul; Burkey, Heidi; Ratanasiripong, Nop

2009-01-01

The present study investigated the relationship between stress and substance use among 347 Asian American, 346 Latino, and 776 White college students. Although stress was not found to predict substance use among the ethnic/ethnic group studied, results of the study indicated that Latino students reported a significantly higher stress level than…

Substance Use, Aggression Perpetration, and Victimization: Temporal Co-Occurrence in College Males and Females

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Margolin, Gayla; Ramos, Michelle C.; Baucom, Brian R.; Bennett, Diana C.; Guran, Elyse L.

2013-01-01

Many studies have documented associations of substance use with aggression perpetration and aggression victimization; however, little is known about the co-occurrence of these problem behaviors within the same day in college students. The present study investigated whether substance use and aggression increase the likelihood of each other and…

78 FR 39337 - Importer of Controlled Substances; Notice of Application; Akorn, Inc.

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-07-01

...), a basic class of controlled substance listed in schedule II. The company plans to import Remifentanil in bulk for use in dosage- form manufacturing. Any bulk manufacturer who is presently, or is applying to be, registered with DEA to manufacture such basic class of controlled substance listed in...

Substance Use and Depression Symptomatology: Measurement Invariance of the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-II) among Non-Users and Frequent-Users of Alcohol, Nicotine and Cannabis.

PubMed

Moore, Ashlee A; Neale, Michael C; Silberg, Judy L; Verhulst, Brad

2016-01-01

Depression is a highly heterogeneous condition, and identifying how symptoms present in various groups may greatly increase our understanding of its etiology. Importantly, Major Depressive Disorder is strongly linked with Substance Use Disorders, which may ameliorate or exacerbate specific depression symptoms. It is therefore quite plausible that depression may present with different symptom profiles depending on an individual's substance use status. Given these observations, it is important to examine the underlying construct of depression in groups of substance users compared to non-users. In this study we use a non-clinical sample to examine the measurement structure of the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-II) in non-users and frequent-users of various substances. Specifically, measurement invariance was examined across those who do vs. do not use alcohol, nicotine, and cannabis. Results indicate strict factorial invariance across non-users and frequent-users of alcohol and cannabis, and metric invariance across non-users and frequent-users of nicotine. This implies that the factor structure of the BDI-II is similar across all substance use groups.

A novel baseline-correction method for standard addition based derivative spectra and its application to quantitative analysis of benzo(a)pyrene in vegetable oil samples.

PubMed

Li, Na; Li, Xiu-Ying; Zou, Zhe-Xiang; Lin, Li-Rong; Li, Yao-Qun

2011-07-07

In the present work, a baseline-correction method based on peak-to-derivative baseline measurement was proposed for the elimination of complex matrix interference that was mainly caused by unknown components and/or background in the analysis of derivative spectra. This novel method was applicable particularly when the matrix interfering components showed a broad spectral band, which was common in practical analysis. The derivative baseline was established by connecting two crossing points of the spectral curves obtained with a standard addition method (SAM). The applicability and reliability of the proposed method was demonstrated through both theoretical simulation and practical application. Firstly, Gaussian bands were used to simulate 'interfering' and 'analyte' bands to investigate the effect of different parameters of interfering band on the derivative baseline. This simulation analysis verified that the accuracy of the proposed method was remarkably better than other conventional methods such as peak-to-zero, tangent, and peak-to-peak measurements. Then the above proposed baseline-correction method was applied to the determination of benzo(a)pyrene (BaP) in vegetable oil samples by second-derivative synchronous fluorescence spectroscopy. The satisfactory results were obtained by using this new method to analyze a certified reference material (coconut oil, BCR(®)-458) with a relative error of -3.2% from the certified BaP concentration. Potentially, the proposed method can be applied to various types of derivative spectra in different fields such as UV-visible absorption spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy and infrared spectroscopy.

The assessment of potentially interfering metabolites and dietary components in blood using an osmotic glucose sensor based on the concanavalin A-dextran affinity assay.

PubMed

Krushinitskaya, Olga; Tønnessen, Tor Inge; Jakobsen, Henrik; Johannessen, Erik

2011-10-15

Continuous surveillance of blood glucose is a prerogative of maintaining a tight glycaemic control in people suffering from diabetes mellitus. Implantable sensor technology offers the potential of conducting direct long term continuous glucose measurements, but current size restrictions and operational challenges have limited their applications. The osmotic sensor utilises diffusion to create a hydrostatic pressure that is independent of sensor operation and power consumption. This permits ultra-low power architectures to be realized with a minimal start-up time in a package suitable for miniaturization. In contrast, osmotic sensors suffer from the inability of their membranes to discriminate between different constituents in blood or the interstitial fluid that are of comparable size to glucose. By implementing an affinity assay based on the competitive bonding between concanavalin A and dextran, the selectivity of the membrane can be transferred to the glucose specific recognition of the affinity assay. The osmotic effect from the physiological levels of several key metabolites and nutritional components has been addressed identifying in particular ethanol, lactate and amino acids as potential interfering constituents. Both ascorbic acid and mannose would have a normal physiological concentration that is too low to be detected. The studies shows that an osmotic glucose sensor equipped with the con A-dextran affinity assay, is able to filter out potential interfering constituents present in blood, plasma and the interstitial fluid yet retaining a pressure that is proportional to glucose only. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Src promotes delta opioid receptor (DOR) desensitization by interfering with receptor recycling.

PubMed

Archer-Lahlou, Elodie; Audet, Nicolas; Amraei, Mohammad Gholi; Huard, Karine; Paquin-Gobeil, Mélanie; Pineyro, Graciela

2009-01-01

Abstract An important limitation in the clinical use of opiates is progressive loss of analgesic efficacy over time. Development of analgesic tolerance is tightly linked to receptor desensitization. In the case of delta opioid receptors (DOR), desensitization is especially swift because receptors are rapidly internalized and are poorly recycled to the membrane. In the present study, we investigated whether Src activity contributed to this sorting pattern and to functional desensitization of DORs. A first series of experiments demonstrated that agonist binding activates Src and destabilizes a constitutive complex formed by the spontaneous association of DORs with the kinase. Src contribution to DOR desensitization was then established by showing that pre-treatment with Src inhibitor PP2 (20 microM; 1 hr) or transfection of a dominant negative Src mutant preserved DOR signalling following sustained exposure to an agonist. This protection was afforded without interfering with endocytosis, but suboptimal internalization interfered with PP2 ability to preserve DOR signalling, suggesting a post-endocytic site of action for the kinase. This assumption was confirmed by demonstrating that Src inhibition by PP2 or its silencing by siRNA increased membrane recovery of internalized DORs and was further corroborated by showing that inhibition of recycling by monensin or dominant negative Rab11 (Rab11S25N) abolished the ability of Src blockers to prevent desensitization. Finally, Src inhibitors accelerated recovery of DOR-Galphal3 coupling after desensitization. Taken together, these results indicate that Src dynamically regulates DOR recycling and by doing so contributes to desensitization of these receptors.

Orthogonal on-off control of radar pulses for the suppression of mutual interference

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Yong Cheol

1998-10-01

Intelligent vehicles of the future will be guided by radars and other sensors to avoid obstacles. When multiple vehicles move simultaneously in autonomous navigational mode, mutual interference among car radars becomes a serious problem. An obstacle is illuminated with electromagnetic pulses from several radars. The signal at a radar receiver is actually a mixture of the self-reflection and the reflection of interfering pulses emitted by others. When standardized pulse- type radars are employed on vehicles for obstacle avoidance and so self-pulse and interfering pulses have identical pulse repetition interval, this SI (synchronous Interference) is very difficult to separate from the true reflection. We present a method of suppressing such a synchronous interference. By controlling the pulse emission of a radar in a binary orthogonal ON, OFF pattern, the true self-reflection can be separated from the false one. Two range maps are generated, TRM (true-reflection map) and SIM (synchronous- interference map). TRM is updated for every ON interval and SIM is updated for every OFF interval of the self-radar. SIM represents the SI of interfering radars while TRM keeps a record of a mixture of the true self-reflection and SI. Hence the true obstacles can be identified by the set subtraction operation. The performance of the proposed method is compared with that of the conventional M of N method. Bayesian analysis shows that the probability of false alarm is improved by order of 103 to approximately 106 while the deterioration in the probability of detection is negligible.

A terrain based simulation system to predict the interference caused by networks of spread spectrum systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hagen, William E.; Holtzman, Julian C.

The Army Terrain Integrated Interference Prediction System (ATIIPS), a CAD terrain based simulation tool for determining the degradation effects on a network on nonspread spectrum radios caused by a network of spread spectrum radios is presented. A brief overview of the program is given, with typical graphics displays shown. Typical results for both a link simulation of interference and for a network simulation, using a slow hopped FM/FSK spread spectrum interfering radio network on a narrow band FM/FSK fixed frequency digital radio are presented.

Worldwide legislative challenges related to psychoactive drugs.

PubMed

Negrei, Carolina; Galateanu, Bianca; Stan, Miriana; Balalau, Cristian; Dumitru, Mircea Lucian Bogdan; Ozcagli, Eren; Fenga, Concettina; Kovatsi, Leda; Fragou, Domniki; Tsatsakis, Aristidis

2017-06-02

The discovery of a "new" psychoactive substance is a relatively exceptional event, while the regulatory response usually involved the assessment of risks to public health and inclusion of the novel substance in the national list of controlled substances. However, in recent years we have witnessed the rapid emergence of new chemical substances, which elude international control and pose a challenge to existing processes and a threat to the credibility of control systems. We currently review and present characteristics of these legal and illegal new substances and issues regarding their global monitoring and regulatory measures already taken, or in the process of being taken, for their control. The concept of prohibition applied in active substance-related legislation is rather hazard ridden as balance is required between the ban on substances of potential therapeutic use and the access on the market of high-risk substances. Current and future laws regarding psychoactive compounds.

Substance P relaxes rat bronchial smooth muscle via epithelial prostanoid synthesis.

PubMed

Bodelsson, M; Blomquist, S; Caverius, K; Törnebrandt, K

1999-01-01

Substance P is present in bronchial nerve fibres. The physiological actions of substance P are mediated via tachykinin NK(1) receptors. Immunochemical studies have demonstrated tachykinin NK(1) receptors in the rat airway epithelium. To elucidate how epithelial tachykinin NK(1) receptors affect smooth muscle response to substance P. Contractile response of isolated rat bronchial trunk with or without epithelium was recorded. In intact segments precontracted by 5-hydroxytryptamine, relaxation was induced by substance P and the nitric oxide donor, sodium nitroprusside. Removal of the epithelium abolished relaxation induced by substance P but did not affect relaxation induced by sodium nitroprusside. The cyclo-oxygenase inhibitor, indomethacin, but not the nitric oxide synthase inhibitor, L-N(G)-monomethylarginine, reduced the relaxation in response to substance P. Epithelial tachykinin NK(1) receptors mediate substance-P-induced relaxation of rat bronchial smooth muscle via release of prostanoids but not nitric oxide.

Hong Kong children's posited "vulnerability" to social influence on substance abuse.

PubMed

Cheung, Chau-Kiu; Tse, John Wing-Ling

2008-01-01

A survey of 2,051 pupils between Grade 4 and Grade 7 in 2003 showed that social influence or encouragement to substance use was a significant determinant of substance use risk, controlling for prior substance use and other backgrounds. Contextual stress or unhappiness among parents, classmates, and other people around operated jointly with social influence to promote substance use risk. This finding accords with a dovetail model about the extra influence due to the joining of force and receptivity to the force. Further research is necessary to corroborate the present findings obtained from a place and a time.

Using Problem Gambling Helpline Data to Inform Addiction Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Glenn, Margaret K.; Diaz, Sebastian; Moore, Lucas C.

2006-01-01

There appears to be an association between substance use and pathological gambling disorders in the research. This will present concerns for clinicians in substance use treatment programs as clients present with the co-occurring disorders. This exploratory study provides descriptive information learned from calls made to a problem gambling…

EFFECT OF PHOSPHORYLATED HESPERIDIN AND HYALURONIDASE ON THE RATE OF ERYTHROCYTE REMOVAL FROM THE PERITONEAL CAVITY OF RATS

DTIC Science & Technology

Previously reported studies reveal that phosphorylated hesperidin interferes with absorption of 0.9% NaCl solution from the peritoneal cavity of rats...while hyaluronidase facilitzvates this process. In the present study the effect of phosphorylated hesperidin and hyaluronidase on absorption of...suspension. Treatment with phosphorylated hesperidin significantly interfered with the absorption, only 12% of the originally administered erythrocytes being

Innovative solutions--the art of improvisation: patient and family preferences for visitation in critical care.

PubMed

Heitman, Linda; McClard, Catherine

2009-01-01

Critical care nurses identified that, although a liberal visitation policy was followed, patients and families occasionally expressed preferences for verbal communication, rather than have the visitor physically present in the unit. Previously tested communication devices interfered with operating equipment resulting in poor reception. The purpose of this project was to find an effective method for patients to verbally communicate with visitors.

Multifunctional RNA Nanoparticles

PubMed Central

2015-01-01

Our recent advancements in RNA nanotechnology introduced novel nanoscaffolds (nanorings); however, the potential of their use for biomedical applications was never fully revealed. As presented here, besides functionalization with multiple different short interfering RNAs for combinatorial RNA interference (e.g., against multiple HIV-1 genes), nanorings also allow simultaneous embedment of assorted RNA aptamers, fluorescent dyes, proteins, as well as recently developed RNA–DNA hybrids aimed to conditionally activate multiple split functionalities inside cells. PMID:25267559

Male contraception: another Holy Grail.

PubMed

Murdoch, Fern E; Goldberg, Erwin

2014-01-15

The idea that men should participate in family planning by playing an active role in contraception has become more acceptable in recent years. Up to the present the condom and vasectomy have been the main methods of male contraception. There have been and continue to be efforts to develop an acceptable hormonal contraceptive involving testosterone (T) suppression. However the off target affects, delivery of the analogs and the need for T replacement have proven difficult obstacles to this technology. Research into the development of non-hormonal contraception for men is progressing in several laboratories and this will be the subject of the present review. A number of promising targets for the male pill are being investigated. These involve disruption of spermatogenesis by compromising the integrity of the germinal epithelium, interfering with sperm production at the level of meiosis, attacking specific sperm proteins to disrupt fertilizing ability, or interfering with the assembly of seminal fluid components required by ejaculated sperm for acquisition of motility. Blocking contractility of the vas deferens smooth muscle vasculature to prevent ejaculation is a unique approach that prevents sperm from reaching the egg. We shall note the lack of interest by big pharma with most of the support for male contraception provided by the NIH. Copyright © 2013 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

Differential effects of non-informative vision and visual interference on haptic spatial processing

PubMed Central

van Rheede, Joram J.; Postma, Albert; Kappers, Astrid M. L.

2008-01-01

The primary purpose of this study was to examine the effects of non-informative vision and visual interference upon haptic spatial processing, which supposedly derives from an interaction between an allocentric and egocentric reference frame. To this end, a haptic parallelity task served as baseline to determine the participant-dependent biasing influence of the egocentric reference frame. As expected, large systematic participant-dependent deviations from veridicality were observed. In the second experiment we probed the effect of non-informative vision on the egocentric bias. Moreover, orienting mechanisms (gazing directions) were studied with respect to the presentation of haptic information in a specific hemispace. Non-informative vision proved to have a beneficial effect on haptic spatial processing. No effect of gazing direction or hemispace was observed. In the third experiment we investigated the effect of simultaneously presented interfering visual information on the haptic bias. Interfering visual information parametrically influenced haptic performance. The interplay of reference frames that subserves haptic spatial processing was found to be related to both the effects of non-informative vision and visual interference. These results suggest that spatial representations are influenced by direct cross-modal interactions; inter-participant differences in the haptic modality resulted in differential effects of the visual modality. PMID:18553074

A systematic review of the prevalence of comorbid mental health disorders in people presenting for substance use treatment in Australia.

PubMed

Kingston, Rosemary E F; Marel, Christina; Mills, Katherine L

2017-07-01

The aim of this paper was to conduct a systematic review of the prevalence of comorbid mental health conditions in people accessing treatment for substance use in Australia. A systematic review identified studies meeting the following eligibility criteria: reporting original data published in English; sample presenting for substance use treatment in Australia; assessing the prevalence of mental health and substance use conditions and reporting the percentage of participants with co-occurring mental health and substance use conditions. A narrative analysis was conducted because of the heterogeneity of methods used to assess key outcome variables and small number of studies assessing particular mental health outcomes. The abstracts of 1173 records were screened, and 59 full articles were assessed for eligibility. Eighteen studies were included in the review. Prevalence estimates of current mental disorders in substance use treatment clients varied (47 to 100%). Mood and anxiety disorders were particularly prevalent, with the prevalence of current depression ranging from 27 to 85% and current generalised anxiety disorder ranging from 1 to 75%. The high prevalence of mood and anxiety disorders in substance use treatment settings indicates a need for clinicians to screen and assess for these disorders as part of routine clinical care, and be familiar with evidence-based management and treatment strategies. Although further studies are required to determine the prevalence of the full range of mental health disorders in this population, these findings emphasise the high prevalence of comorbid mental disorders are among individuals accessing substance use treatment in Australia. [Kingston REF, Marel C, Mills KL. A systematic review of the prevalence of comorbid mental health disorders in people presenting for substance use treatment in Australia. Drug Alcohol Rev 2017;36:527-539]. © 2016 Australasian Professional Society on Alcohol and other Drugs.

Challenges and advances in the treatment of AKI.

PubMed

Kaushal, Gur P; Shah, Sudhir V

2014-05-01

Treating or preventing AKI requires treating or preventing a rise in serum creatinine as well as the immediate and remote clinical consequences associated with AKI. Because a substantial number of patients with AKI progress to ESRD, identifying patients likely to progress and halting progression are important goals for treating AKI. Many therapies for AKI are being developed, including RenalGuard Therapy, which aims to maintain high urine output; α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone, with anti-inflammatory and antiapoptotic activities; alkaline phosphatase, which detoxifies proinflammatory substances; novel, small interfering RNA, directed at p53 activation; THR-184, a peptide agonist of bone morphogenetic proteins; removal of catalytic iron, important in free-radical formation; and cell-based therapies, including mesenchymal stem cells in vivo and renal cell therapy in situ. In this review, we explore what treatment of AKI really means, discuss the emerging therapies, and examine the windows of opportunity for treating AKI. Finally, we provide suggestions for accelerating the pathways toward preventing and treating AKI, such as establishing an AKI network, implementing models of catalytic philanthropy, and directing a small percentage of the Medicare ESRD budget for developing therapies to prevent and treat AKI and halt progression of CKD. Copyright © 2014 by the American Society of Nephrology.

Challenges and Advances in the Treatment of AKI

PubMed Central

Kaushal, Gur P.

2014-01-01

Treating or preventing AKI requires treating or preventing a rise in serum creatinine as well as the immediate and remote clinical consequences associated with AKI. Because a substantial number of patients with AKI progress to ESRD, identifying patients likely to progress and halting progression are important goals for treating AKI. Many therapies for AKI are being developed, including RenalGuard Therapy, which aims to maintain high urine output; α-melanocyte–stimulating hormone, with anti-inflammatory and antiapoptotic activities; alkaline phosphatase, which detoxifies proinflammatory substances; novel, small interfering RNA, directed at p53 activation; THR-184, a peptide agonist of bone morphogenetic proteins; removal of catalytic iron, important in free-radical formation; and cell-based therapies, including mesenchymal stem cells in vivo and renal cell therapy in situ. In this review, we explore what treatment of AKI really means, discuss the emerging therapies, and examine the windows of opportunity for treating AKI. Finally, we provide suggestions for accelerating the pathways toward preventing and treating AKI, such as establishing an AKI network, implementing models of catalytic philanthropy, and directing a small percentage of the Medicare ESRD budget for developing therapies to prevent and treat AKI and halt progression of CKD. PMID:24480828

[Fundamental evaluation of apolipoprotein B-48 by chemiluminescence enzyme immunoassay--identification of apolipoprotein B-48 with immunoblotting].

PubMed

Sato, Itsuko; Fujioka, Yoshio; Hayashi, Fujio; Mukai, Masahiko; Kawano, Seiji; Ishikawa, Yuichi; Yamashita, Shizuya; Kumagai, Shunichi

2007-06-01

Apolipoprotein B-48 (apo B-48) is a constituent of chylomicrons and chylomicron remnants, and its fasting concentration has been reported to be a marker of postprandial hyperlipidemia, which is thought to be a risk factor of atherosclerosis. We evaluated the serum apo B-48 concentrations by chemiluminescence enzyme immunoassay (CLEIA), which was recently introduced as Lumipulse f fully automated immunosaasy analyzer by Fujirebio Inc (Tokyo, Japan), and performed immunoblotting on agarose gel electrophoresis with anti-apo B-48 antibody. Apo B-48 assay was intra-assay reproducible (CVs: 1.9-3.1%) and inter-assay reproducible (CVs: 2.2-4.4%). The assay range for apo B-48 was from 0.2 to 40.0 microg/ml. The effects of interfering substances such as free/conjugated birirubin, hemoglobin, Intrafat, ascorbic acid and rheumatoid factor were negligible. For storage, it was preferable to freeze, and to avoid frozen-thaw process as much as possible. Anti-apo B-48 antibody was reactive over a wide range from origin to the position of very-low-density lipoproteins in immunoblotting after agarose gel electrophoresis. Apo B-48 measurement by CLEIA was feasible to clinical use for the assessment of lipoprotein metabolism.

Determination of acrylamide and methacrylamide by normal phase high performance liquid chromatography and UV detection.

PubMed

Paleologos, E K; Kontominas, M G

2005-06-10

A method using normal phase high performance liquid chromatography (NP-HPLC) with UV detection was developed for the analysis of acrylamide and methacrylamide. The method relies on the chromatographic separation of these analytes on a polar HPLC column designed for the separation of organic acids. Identification of acrylamide and methacrylamide is approached dually, that is directly in their protonated forms and as their hydrolysis products acrylic and methacrylic acid respectively, for confirmation. Detection and quantification is performed at 200 nm. The method is simple allowing for clear resolution of the target peaks from any interfering substances. Detection limits of 10 microg L(-1) were obtained for both analytes with the inter- and intra-day RSD for standard analysis lying below 1.0%. Use of acetonitrile in the elution solvent lowers detection limits and retention times, without impairing resolution of peaks. The method was applied for the determination of acrylamide and methacrylamide in spiked food samples without native acrylamide yielding recoveries between 95 and 103%. Finally, commercial samples of french and roasted fries, cookies, cocoa and coffee were analyzed to assess applicability of the method towards acrylamide, giving results similar with those reported in the literature.

The electrochemical behavior of a FAD dependent glucose dehydrogenase with direct electron transfer subunit by immobilization on self-assembled monolayers.

PubMed

Lee, Inyoung; Loew, Noya; Tsugawa, Wakako; Lin, Chi-En; Probst, David; La Belle, Jeffrey T; Sode, Koji

2018-06-01

Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) is a vital technology for diabetes patients by providing tight glycemic control. Currently, many commercially available CGM sensors use glucose oxidase (GOD) as sensor element, but this enzyme is not able to transfer electrons directly to the electrode without oxygen or an electronic mediator. We previously reported a mutated FAD dependent glucose dehydrogenase complex (FADGDH) capable of direct electron transfer (DET) via an electron transfer subunit without involving oxygen or a mediator. In this study, we investigated the electrochemical response of DET by controlling the immobilization of DET-FADGDH using 3 types of self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) with varying lengths. With the employment of DET-FADGDH and SAM, high current densities were achieved without being affected by interfering substances such as acetaminophen and ascorbic acid. Additionally, the current generated from DET-FADGDH electrodes decreased with increasing length of SAM, suggesting that the DET ability can be affected by the distance between the enzyme and the electrode. These results indicate the feasibility of controlling the immobilization state of the enzymes on the electrode surface. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Evaluation of two glucose meters and interference corrections for screening neonatal hypoglycemia.

PubMed

Wada, Yuka; Nakamura, Tomoo; Kaneshige, Masao; Takahashi, Shigehiro; Fujinaga, Hideshi; Tsukamoto, Keiko; Ito, Yushi; Sago, Haruhiko

2015-08-01

Many neonatal intensive care and maternal units still use self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) devices as a tool to aid diagnosis despite the introduction of point-of-care testing (POCT) devices, which are known to have higher accuracy. We evaluated the performance of two glucose meters, the StatStrip (Nova Biomedical), a POCT device, and the Medisafe Mini (Terumo), an SMBG device, to detect hypoglycemia in neonates. In addition, we evaluated the interference of hematocrit, acetaminophen and ascorbic acid. Whole blood samples were drawn from neonates who were at risk of hypoglycemia and analyzed with the StatStrip and Medisafe Mini. The results were further confirmed with blood gas analyzers ABL825 and BM6050. To evaluate the interference of hematocrit, acetaminophen and ascorbic acid, concentrated solutions of glucose and interfering substances were gravimetrically prepared and analyzed. Among the 222 blood samples analyzed, results from the StatStrip were more closely aligned to those of the ABL825 at all levels of glucose than the Medisafe Mini. StatStrip appears to be unaffected by hematocrit, ascorbic acid or acetaminophen. We recommend its use in neonates in hospital. Further studies are required to identify other interference effects. © 2014 Japan Pediatric Society.

Plant and metagenomic DNA extraction of mucilaginous seeds.

PubMed

Ramos, Simone N M; Salazar, Marcela M; Pereira, Gonçalo A G; Efraim, Priscilla

2014-01-01

The pulp surrounding the seeds of some fruits is rich in mucilage, carbohydrates, etc. Some seeds are rich in proteins and polyphenols. Fruit seeds, like cacao (Theobroma cacao) and cupuassu (Theobroma grandiflorum), are subjected to fermentation to develop flavor. During fermentation, ethanol is produced [2-6]. All of these compounds are considered as interfering substances that hinder the DNA extraction [4-8]. Protocols commonly used in the DNA extraction in samples of plant origin were used, but without success. Thus, a protocol for DNA samples under different conditions that can be used for similar samples was developed and applied with success. The protocol initially described for RNA samples by Zeng et al. [9] and with changes proposed by Provost et al. [5] was adapted for extracting DNA samples from those described. However, several modifications have been proposed:•Samples were initially washed with petroleum ether for fat phase removal.•RNAse was added to the extraction buffer, while spermidin was removed.•Additional steps of extraction with 5 M NaCl, saturated NaCl and CTAB (10%) were included and precipitation was carried out with isopropanol, followed by washing with ethanol.

Plant and metagenomic DNA extraction of mucilaginous seeds

PubMed Central

Ramos, Simone N.M.; Salazar, Marcela M.; Pereira, Gonçalo A.G.; Efraim, Priscilla

2014-01-01

The pulp surrounding the seeds of some fruits is rich in mucilage, carbohydrates, etc. Some seeds are rich in proteins and polyphenols. Fruit seeds, like cacao (Theobroma cacao) and cupuassu (Theobroma grandiflorum), are subjected to fermentation to develop flavor. During fermentation, ethanol is produced [2–6]. All of these compounds are considered as interfering substances that hinder the DNA extraction [4–8]. Protocols commonly used in the DNA extraction in samples of plant origin were used, but without success. Thus, a protocol for DNA samples under different conditions that can be used for similar samples was developed and applied with success. The protocol initially described for RNA samples by Zeng et al. [9] and with changes proposed by Provost et al. [5] was adapted for extracting DNA samples from those described. However, several modifications have been proposed:•Samples were initially washed with petroleum ether for fat phase removal.•RNAse was added to the extraction buffer, while spermidin was removed.•Additional steps of extraction with 5 M NaCl, saturated NaCl and CTAB (10%) were included and precipitation was carried out with isopropanol, followed by washing with ethanol. PMID:26150956

Construction of novel sensitive electrochemical sensor for electro-oxidation and determination of citalopram based on zinc oxide nanoparticles and multi-walled carbon nanotubes.

PubMed

Ghaedi, Hamed; Afkhami, Abbas; Madrakian, Tayyebeh; Soltani-Felehgari, Farzaneh

2016-02-01

A new chemically modified carbon paste electrode (CMCPE) was applied to the simple, rapid, highly selective and sensitive determination of citalopram in human serum and pharmaceutical preparations using adsorptive square wave voltammetry (ASWV). The ZnO nanoparticles and multi-walled carbon nanotubes modified CPE (ZnO-MWCNT/CPE) electrode was prepared by incorporation of the ZnO nanoparticles and multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) in carbon paste electrode. The limit of detection and the linear range were found to be 0.005 and 0.012 to 1.54μmolL(-1) of citalopram, respectively. The effects of potentially interfering substances on the determination of this compound were investigated and found that the electrode is highly selective. The proposed CMCPE was used to the determination of citalopram in human serum, urine and pharmaceutical samples. This reveals that ZnO-MWCNT/CPE shows excellent analytical performance for the determination of citalopram in terms of very low detection limit, high sensitivity, very good repeatability and reproducibility over other methods reported in the literature. Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Quantitation of polymethoxylated flavones in orange juice by high-performance liquid chromatography.

PubMed

Rouseff, R L; Ting, S V

1979-08-01

A quantitative high-performance liquid chromatographic (HPLC) procedure for the determination of the five major polymethoxylated flavones (PMFs) in orange juice has been developed. It employs a unique ternary solvent system with coupled UV-fluorescence detection. The dual detectors were employed to determine the presence of interfering substances and served as a cross check on quantitation. Stop flow UV and fluorescence scanning was used to identify peaks and determine the presence of impurities. Although all five citrus PMFs fluoresce, some HPLC fluorescence peaks were too small to be of much practical use. All five citrus PMFs could be quantitated satisfactorily with the fixed wavelength UV (313 nm) detector. The HPLC procedure has been used to evaluate each step in the preparation. The optimum extracting solvent was selected and one time consuming step was eliminated, as it was found to be unnecessary. HPLC values for nobiletin and sinensetin are in good agreement with the thin-layer chromatographic (TLC) values in the literature. HPLC values for the other three flavones were considerably lower than those reported in the literature. The HPLC procedure is considerably faster than the TLC procedure with equal or superior precision and accuracy.

Electrochemically reduced graphene oxide/Poly-Glycine composite modified electrode for sensitive determination of l-dopa.

PubMed

Palakollu, Venkata Narayana; Thapliyal, Neeta; Chiwunze, Tirivashe E; Karpoormath, Rajshekhar; Karunanidhi, Sivanandhan; Cherukupalli, Srinivasulu

2017-08-01

A facile preparation strategy based on electrochemical technique for the fabrication of glycine (Poly-Gly) and electrochemically reduced graphene oxide (ERGO) composite modified electrode was developed. The morphology of the developed composite (ERGO/Poly-Gly) was investigated using field emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM). The composite modified glassy carbon electrode (GCE) was characterized using fourier transform-infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and cyclic voltammetry (CV). The electrochemical characterization results revealed that ERGO/Poly-Gly modified GCE has excellent electrocatalytic activity. Further, it was employed for sensing of l-dopa in pH5.5. Differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) was used for the quantification of l-dopa as well as for the simultaneous resolution of l-dopa and uric acid (UA). The LOD (S/N=3) was found to be 0.15μM at the proposed composite modified electrode. Determination of l-dopa could also be achieved in the presence of potentially interfering substances. The sensor showed high sensitivity and selectivity with appreciable reliability and precision. The proposed sensor was also successfully applied for real sample analysis. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Risk of inpatient stay for mental illness among individuals with substance use disorders.

PubMed

Prince, Jonathan D

2012-09-01

Whereas most studies of inpatient stay for mental illness examine whether substance use is present, this study identified types or combinations of abused substances that most increased hospitalization risk. Logistic regression of data from the 2007 National Survey of Drug Use and Health (N=37,654) was used to predict past-year hospitalization of individuals with DSM-IV substance use disorders. Even after the inclusion of control variables, adults with four types of substance abuse or dependence were more likely to be hospitalized than adults without substance abuse or dependence. High-risk disorders included abuse of or dependence on opioid analgesics (odds ratio [OR]=6.85, p<.001), cocaine (OR=2.65, p<.05), alcohol and cocaine (OR=2.58, p<.05), and alcohol and marijuana (OR=3.10, p<.01). Researchers examining inpatient stays may find it beneficial to look at abuse of specific substances or combinations of substances, and efforts to prevent inpatient stays could target people with high-risk substance use disorders.

Erasing and blurring memories: The differential impact of interference on separate aspects of forgetting.

PubMed

Sun, Sol Z; Fidalgo, Celia; Barense, Morgan D; Lee, Andy C H; Cant, Jonathan S; Ferber, Susanne

2017-11-01

Interference disrupts information processing across many timescales, from immediate perception to memory over short and long durations. The widely held similarity assumption states that as similarity between interfering information and memory contents increases, so too does the degree of impairment. However, information is lost from memory in different ways. For instance, studied content might be erased in an all-or-nothing manner. Alternatively, information may be retained but the precision might be degraded or blurred. Here, we asked whether the similarity of interfering information to memory contents might differentially impact these 2 aspects of forgetting. Observers studied colored images of real-world objects, each followed by a stream of interfering objects. Across 4 experiments, we manipulated the similarity between the studied object and the interfering objects in circular color space. After interference, memory for object color was tested continuously on a color wheel, which in combination with mixture modeling, allowed for estimation of how erasing and blurring differentially contribute to forgetting. In contrast to the similarity assumption, we show that highly dissimilar interfering items caused the greatest increase in random guess responses, suggesting a greater frequency of memory erasure (Experiments 1-3). Moreover, we found that observers were generally able to resist interference from highly similar items, perhaps through surround suppression (Experiments 1 and 4). Finally, we report that interference from items of intermediate similarity tended to blur or decrease memory precision (Experiments 3 and 4). These results reveal that the nature of visual similarity can differentially alter how information is lost from memory. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2017 APA, all rights reserved).

When acute-stage psychosis and substance use co-occur: differentiating substance-induced and primary psychotic disorders.

PubMed

Caton, C L; Samet, S; Hasin, D S

2000-09-01

Substances such as alcohol, cocaine, amphetamine, and cannabis can produce psychotic reactions in individuals who are otherwise free of serious mental illness. However, persons with primary psychotic disorders, such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, who use these substances often present for treatment with signs and symptoms similar to those whose psychosis resulted from the use of drugs alone. While it is often difficult to distinguish substance-induced from primary psychoses, especially early in the course of treatment, this differential diagnosis has important implications for treatment planning. To help clinicians distinguish these two types of presentations, the authors first review the types of psychotic symptoms that can co-occur with substance use. They discuss the prevalence and patterns of substance use that have been found in patients with schizophrenia and other primary psychotic disorders and review the negative outcomes associated with substance use in this population. The prevalence of and types of symptoms and problems associated with psychotic symptoms that occur as a result of substance use alone are also reviewed. The authors describe assessment procedures for differentiating substance-induced and primary psychotic disorders. They stress the importance of accurately establishing the temporal relationship between the substance use and the onset and continuation of psychotic symptoms in making a differential diagnosis, as well as the importance of being familiar with the types of psychological symptoms that can occur with specific substances. The authors review the utility and limitations of a number of diagnostic instruments for assessing patients with co-occurring psychosis and substance use problems, including The Addiction Severity Index, The Michigan Alcohol Screening Test, and diagnostic interviews such as the Schedule for Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia and the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM. They then discuss the Psychiatric Research Interview for Substance and Mental Disorders (PRISM), an instrument that has been developed to address the lack of a diagnostic interview that is suitable for assessing the comorbidity of substance use and psychiatric disorders. The article concludes with a discussion of the importance of an appropriate match between diagnosis and treatment and the current state of our knowledge concerning the most appropriate types of treatment interventions for patients with substance-induced psychosis and those with dual diagnoses.

Exploring the trans-acting short interfering RNAs (ta-siRNAs) technology for virus control in plants

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Small ribonucleic acid (RNAs) (~20-24nt) processed from double-stranded RNA in plants can trigger degradation of the target mRNAs in cytoplasm or de novo DNA methylation in nucleus leading to gene silencing. Trans-acting short-interfering RNAs (ta-siRNAs) have been shown to enhance the target mRNA d...

Thiophenone Attenuates Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli O103:H2 Virulence by Interfering with AI-2 Signaling.

PubMed

Witsø, Ingun Lund; Valen Rukke, Håkon; Benneche, Tore; Aamdal Scheie, Anne

2016-01-01

Interference with bacterial quorum sensing communication provides an anti-virulence strategy to control pathogenic bacteria. Here, using the Enteropathogenic E. coli (EPEC) O103:H2, we showed for the first time that thiophenone TF101 reduced expression of lsrB; the gene encoding the AI-2 receptor. Combined results of transcriptional and phenotypic analyses suggested that TF101 interfere with AI-2 signalling, possibly by competing with AI-2 for binding to LsrB. This is supported by in silico docking prediction of thiophenone TF101 in the LsrB pocket. Transcriptional analyses furthermore showed that thiophenone TF101 interfered with expression of the virulence genes eae and fimH. In addition, TF101 reduced AI-2 induced E. coli adhesion to colorectal adenocarcinoma cells. TF101, on the other hand, did not affect epinephrine or norepinephrine enhanced E. coli adhesion. Overall, our results showed that thiophenone TF101 interfered with virulence expression in E. coli O103:H2, suggestedly by interfering with AI-2 mediated quorum sensing. We thus conclude that thiophenone TF101 might represent a promising future anti-virulence agent in the fight against pathogenic E. coli.

Thiophenone Attenuates Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli O103:H2 Virulence by Interfering with AI-2 Signaling

PubMed Central

Valen Rukke, Håkon; Benneche, Tore; Aamdal Scheie, Anne

2016-01-01

Interference with bacterial quorum sensing communication provides an anti-virulence strategy to control pathogenic bacteria. Here, using the Enteropathogenic E. coli (EPEC) O103:H2, we showed for the first time that thiophenone TF101 reduced expression of lsrB; the gene encoding the AI-2 receptor. Combined results of transcriptional and phenotypic analyses suggested that TF101 interfere with AI-2 signalling, possibly by competing with AI-2 for binding to LsrB. This is supported by in silico docking prediction of thiophenone TF101 in the LsrB pocket. Transcriptional analyses furthermore showed that thiophenone TF101 interfered with expression of the virulence genes eae and fimH. In addition, TF101 reduced AI-2 induced E. coli adhesion to colorectal adenocarcinoma cells. TF101, on the other hand, did not affect epinephrine or norepinephrine enhanced E. coli adhesion. Overall, our results showed that thiophenone TF101 interfered with virulence expression in E. coli O103:H2, suggestedly by interfering with AI-2 mediated quorum sensing. We thus conclude that thiophenone TF101 might represent a promising future anti-virulence agent in the fight against pathogenic E. coli. PMID:27309855

Sociodemographic profile and pattern of opioid abuse among patients presenting to a de-addiction centre in tertiary care Hospital of Kashmir

PubMed Central

Farhat, Samina; Hussain, Syed Sajad; Rather, Yasir Hassan; Hussain, Syed Karrar

2015-01-01

Background: The substances abuse has become one of the major public health problems of present society. Recently there has been an increase in the incidence of substance abuse including that of opioids throughout the world. The proper assessment of the current trends and pattern of opioid abuse can be helpful in more effective intervention of this menace. Materials and Methods: To find out various socio-demographic variables and pattern of opioid abuse, a predevised questionnaire was administered to 200 opioid patients who presented to de-addiction center for treatment. Results: Majority of the participants (75%) were of young age group (20–30 years) and the mean age of subjects was 27.6 years. More than half of participants (55%) were abusing the opioid substances for < 3 years followed by 30% of the abusers who were using the opioids for 4–6 years. Oral route was the most common route(35%)of substance administration followed by chasing(13%) and intravenous(11%) routes. Diverted pharmaceuticals emerged as one of the common substances of abuse, and peer pressure was found to be the main reason to start substance abuse. Conclusion: A comprehensive preventive program targeting young adults needs to be formulated and strict laws against sales of diverted pharmaceuticals to be implemented. PMID:26229346

Component analysis of Iranian crack; a newly abused narcotic substance in iran.

PubMed

Farhoudian, Ali; Sadeghi, Mandana; Khoddami Vishteh, Hamid Reza; Moazen, Babak; Fekri, Monir; Rahimi Movaghar, Afarin

2014-01-01

Iranian crack is a new form of narcotic substance that has found widespread prevalence in Iran in the past years. Crack only nominally resembles crack cocaine as it is widely different in its clinical signs. Thus the present study aims to quantify the chemical combination of this drug. The samples included 18 specimen of Crack collected from different zones of Tehran, Iran. All specimens were in the form of inodorous cream solid powdery substance. TLC and HPLC methods were used to perform semi-quantitative and quantitative analysis of the components, respectively. The TLC analysis showed no cocaine compound in the specimens while they all revealed to contain heroin, codeine, morphine and caffeine. All but two specimens contained thebaine. None of the specimens contained amphetamine, benzodiazepines, tricyclic antidepressants, aspirin, barbiturates, tramadol and buprenorphine. Acetaminophen was found in four specimens. HPLC revealed heroin to be the foundation substance in all specimens and most of them contained a significant amount of acetylcodeine. The present analysis of the chemical combination of Crack showed that this substance is a heroin-based narcotic which is basically different from the cocaine-based crack used in Western countries. Studies like the present one at different time points, especially when abnormal clinical signs are detected, can reveal the chemical combination of the target substance and contribute to the clinical management of its acute or chronic poisoning.

The effects of Present Hedonistic Time Perspective and Past Negative Time Perspective on substance use consequences.

PubMed

Chavarria, Jesus; Allan, Nicholas P; Moltisanti, Allison; Taylor, Jeanette

2015-07-01

The overuse of substances can lead to economic, physical, and social consequences. Previous research has demonstrated associations between time perspective and frequency of substance use, but no studies have investigated time perspective's effect on substance use consequences. This study aimed to fill this gap in the literature. Using an MTurk sample (N=531), latent factor models tested the hypothesis that both Present Hedonistic Time Perspective (PrHTP) and Past Negative Time Perspective PaNTP positively predict alcohol and illicit drug use consequences. Bootstrap analyses were then used to test the hypothesis that PrHTP indirectly affected the relationship between PaNTP and alcohol and illicit drug use consequences. PrHTP significantly predicted alcohol and illicit drug use consequences. PaNTP also significantly predicted alcohol and illicit drug use consequences. PrHTP was found to indirectly affect the relationship between PaNTP and substance use consequences for both alcohol and illicit drugs. The findings are consistent with previous research and introduce time perspective as an individual differences risk factor for substance use consequences. The partial and full indirect effects are consistent with the idea that individuals with a PaNTP may develop a PrHTP, placing them at risk for substance use consequences. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Differences in Psychoactive Substance Abuse Between Youths Residing in and Outside Conflict Zones as a Function of Level of Religiosity and Political Commitment.

PubMed

Ne'eman-Haviv, Vered; Wilchek-Aviad, Yael

2017-08-24

The aim of the present study was to examine the effect of the unique characteristics of residing in security and political conflict zones on the willingness to use and on the actual abuse of psychoactive substances. The study focuses on the differences between youths residing in and outside conflict zones in Israel. The present study examines the link between the adolescents' level of psychoactive substance abuse and town size as well as the youths' level of ideological commitment and religiosity. 1032 adolescents aged 14-18 participated in the study. 595 (57%) lived in the nonconflict zones and 437 (43%) in conflict zones. The findings reveal that the level of psychoactive substance abuse among youths residing in conflict zones is significantly lower than that found among youths living outside conflict zones. Moreover, although town size and level of religiosity are linked to psychoactive substance abuse, no such link was found with the level of ideological commitment or place of residence (within or outside conflict zones). The study findings underscore the important effect of social supervision and perceived norms in the adolescents' environment with regard to their willingness to use psychoactive substances and to their actual abuse of such substances.

Substance abuse interface with intimate partner violence: what treatment programs need to know.

PubMed

Brackley, Margaret H; Williams, Gail B; Wei, Christina C

2010-12-01

This article provides suggestions for skill development for substance abuse (SA) treatment agencies and providers for implementing Treatment Improvement Protocol number 25: Substance Abuse Treatment and Domestic Violence. Methods for detecting, screening, intervening, and referring victims and perpetrators of intimate partner violence enrolled in SA treatment are presented. Evidence-based brief intervention is presented. A 2-minute screen for domestic violence as well as danger assessment for lethality of abuse and the Conflict Tactics Scales 2 are reviewed. A survey of interventions aimed at establishing trust, brief intervention from best practice, guidelines for safety planning, compliance strategies for SA treatment, and community resource development are presented. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Thermodynamics of a pure substance at the triple point

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Velasco, S.; Fernández-Pineda, C.

2007-12-01

A thermodynamic study of a pure substance at the triple point is presented. In particular, we show that the mass fractions of the phases coexisting at the triple point obey lever rules in the specific entropy-specific volume diagram, and the relative changes in the mass fractions present in each phase along reversible isochoric and adiabatic processes of a pure substance at the triple point are governed by the relative sizes of the segments of the triple-point line in the pressure-specific volume diagram and in the temperature-specific entropy diagram. Applications to the ordinary triple point of water and to the triple point of Al2SiO5 polymorphs are presented.

Crisis intervention related to the use of psychoactive substances in recreational settings--evaluating the Kosmicare Project at Boom Festival.

PubMed

Carvalho, Maria Carmo; de Sousa, Mariana Pinto; Frango, Paula; Dias, Pedro; Carvalho, Joana; Rodrigues, Marta; Rodrigues, Tania

2014-01-01

Kosmicare project implements crisis intervention in situations related to the use of psychoactive substances at Boom Festival (Portugal). We present evaluation research that aims to contribute to the transformation of the project into an evidence-based intervention model. It relies on harm reduction and risk minimization principles, crisis intervention models, and Grof's psychedelic psychotherapy approach for crisis intervention in situations related to unsupervised use of psychedelics. Intervention was expected to produce knowledge about the relation between substance use and mental health impact in reducing potential risk related to the use of psychoactive substances and mental illness, as well as an impact upon target population's views of themselves, their relationship to substance use, and to life events in general. Research includes data on process and outcome indicators through a mixed methods approach, collected next to a sample of n=176 participants. Sample size varied considerably, however, among different research measures. 52% of Kosmicare visitors reported LSD use. Over 40% also presented multiple drug use. Pre-post mental state evaluation showed statistically significant difference (p<.05) confirming crisis resolution. Crisis episodes that presented no resolution were more often related with mental health outburst episodes, with psychoactive substance use or not. Visitors showed high satisfaction with intervention (n=58) and according to follow-up (n=18) this perception was stable over time. Crisis intervention was experienced as very significant. We discuss limitations and implications of evaluating natural setting based interventions, and the relation between psychoactive substance use and psychopathology. Other data on visitor's profile and vulnerability to crisis showed inconclusive.

Toxic Substances Registry System: Index of Material Safety Data Sheets. Revised

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1998-01-01

The January 1998 revision of the Index of Materials Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for the Kennedy Space Center (KSC) Toxic Substances Registry System (TSRS) is presented. The MSDS lists toxic substances by manufacturer, trade name, stock number, and distributor. The index provides information on hazards, use, and chemical composition of materials stored at KSC.

An Ecodevelopmental Exploration of Mediators between Maltreatment in Childhood and Drug Use during Pregnancy

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ondersma, Steven J.; McGoron, Lucy; Beatty, Jessica R.

2017-01-01

Child maltreatment is associated with increased risk of substance abuse in adulthood. However, prior investigations have not examined substance use specifically in pregnancy and have relied on self-report of substance use. The present study addresses these gaps via secondary analysis of 295 primarily low-income, Black postpartum women who agreed…

Representations of Attachment Security in the Bird's Net Drawings of Clients with Substance Abuse Disorders.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Francis, Denille M.; Kaiser, Donna; Deaver, Sarah P.

2003-01-01

Presents results of a study of the graphic indicators in drawings by patients with substance abuse disorders. The Bird's Nest Drawing, an assessment task previously devised to elicit pictorial representations of attachment security, was used to examine attachment patterns of volunteers. Results showed that those with substance abuse diagnoses were…

A Distance Education Model for Training Substance Abuse Treatment Providers in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Watson, Donnie W.; Rawson, Richard R.; Rataemane, Solomon; Shafer, Michael S.; Obert, Jeanne; Bisesi, Lorrie; Tanamly, Susie

2003-01-01

This paper presents a rationale for the use of a distance education approach in the clinical training of community substance abuse treatment providers. Developing and testing new approaches to the clinical training and supervision of providers is important in the substance abuse treatment field where new information is always available. A…

The Impact of Peer Aggression and Victimization on Substance Use in Rural Adolescents

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wiens, Brenda A.; Haden, Sara C.; Dean, Kristin L.; Sivinski, Jennifer

2010-01-01

Prior research has shown relations between peer victimization, aggression, and adolescent substance use. However, there is a need for further research in this area, especially among rural populations, as rural youth have high rates of substance use but less access to mental health resources in their communities. The present study examined…

Toxic Substances Registry System: Index of Material Safety Data Sheets. Volume 1; Manufacturer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1998-01-01

The April 1998 revision of the Index of Materials Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for the Kennedy Space Center (KSC) Toxic Substances Registry System (TSRS) is presented. The MSDS lists toxic substances by manufacturer, trade name, stock number, and distributor. The index provides information on hazards, use, and chemical composition of materials stored at KSC.

Toxic Substances Registry System Index of Material Safety Data Sheets

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1997-01-01

The July 1997 revision of the Index of Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for the Kennedy Space Center (KSC) Toxic Substances Registry System (TSRS) is presented. The MSDS lists toxic substances by manufacturer, trade name, stock number, and distributor. The index provides information on hazards, use, and chemical composition of materials stored at KSC.

Relations between Parent Psychopathology, Family Functioning, and Adolescent Problems in Substance-Abusing Families: Disaggregating the Effects of Parent Gender

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Burstein, Marcy; Stanger, Catherine; Dumenci, Levent

2012-01-01

The present study: (1) examined relations between parent psychopathology and adolescent internalizing problems, externalizing problems, and substance use in substance-abusing families; and (2) tested family functioning problems as mediators of these relations. Structural equation modeling was used to estimate the independent effects of parent…

Psychometric Properties of a Revised Form of the Drug-Taking Confidence Questionnaire for Use with Adolescents

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ramo, Danielle E.; Myers, Mark G.; Brown, Sandra A.

2009-01-01

Self-efficacy is an important cognitive predictor of substance abuse treatment outcome. Although measures of coping self-efficacy are related to substance use relapse in adults, their properties are not well-known in adolescent populations. The present study examined 223 adolescents while in treatment for substance abuse and comorbid psychiatric…

Neighborhood Risk, Parental Supervision and the Onset of Substance Use among African American Adolescents

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Burlew, Ann Kathleen; Johnson, Candace S.; Flowers, Amanda M.; Peteet, Bridgette J.; Griffith-Henry, Kyna D.; Buchanan, Natasha D.

2009-01-01

The consequences of the early onset of substance use on later outcomes are a public health concern. In the present study, we examined neighborhood risk factors as a possible predictor of the onset of substance use in adolescents. In addition, we assessed the potential buffering effects of parental supervision on the relationship between…

Principles for Practice with Substance-Abusing Pregnant Women: A Framework Based on the Five Social Work Intervention Roles

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sun, An-Pyng

2004-01-01

The author discusses components essential to pregnancy-specific substance abuse treatment, based on a review of the literature. Elements and issues related to substance abuse during pregnancy are identified under the five social work intervention roles: teacher, broker, clinician, mediator, and advocate. The concepts and approaches presented in…

School, Family, and Peer Factors and Their Association with Substance Use in Hispanic Adolescents

PubMed Central

Wang, Wei; Schwartz, Seth J.; Prado, Guillermo; Huang, Shi; Brown, C. Hendricks; Pantin, Hilda; Szapocznik, José

2010-01-01

The purpose of the present study was to examine how relationships among family, school, and peer factors relate to likelihood of substance use in Hispanic adolescents. Results indicated that only perceived peer substance use was directly related to adolescents’ own substance use. A significant interaction was found between parental monitoring and peer use vis-à-vis substance use, which suggests that the relationship between parental monitoring and the adolescents’ own use was significantly stronger among youth who reported that more of their friends used substances. Implications of these results for the design of substance use preventive interventions are discussed. Editors’ Strategic Implications: This research is promising both in terms of the implications for targets of prevention programming and for the application of ecodevelopmental theory, which might guide similar efforts with different cultural groups. PMID:19949868

Precursors of dangerous substances formed in the loss of control of chemical systems.

PubMed

Cozzani, V; Zanelli, S

1999-03-01

Article 2 of Directive 96/82/EC on the control of major accident hazards caused by dangerous substances requires to consider also the hazards due to the dangerous substances "which it is believed may be generated during loss of control of an industrial chemical process", although no generally accepted guidelines are available for the identification of these substances. In the present study, the accidents involving the unwanted formation of dangerous substances as a consequence of the loss of control of chemical systems were investigated. A specifically developed database was used, containing data on more than 400 of these accidents and on the substances involved. The hazardous substances formed in the accidents and the precursors of these substances were identified. The influence of accident characteristics on the substances formed was investigated. In the context of the application of Directive 96/82/EC, an accident severity index and a hazard rating of the precursors of dangerous substances formed in the accidents were proposed. A lumping approach was used in order to develop schemes for the preliminary identification of substances that may be formed in the loss of control of chemical system. The results of accident analysis were used to test the schemes developed.

Administration of the anabolic androgenic steroid nandrolone decanoate affects substance P endopeptidase-like activity in the rat brain.

PubMed

Magnusson, Kristina; Hallberg, Mathias; Högberg, Anna M S Kindlundh; Nyberg, Fred

2006-01-01

The effect of the anabolic androgenic steroid, nandrolone decanoate, on substance P endopeptidase-like activity was examined in adult male Sprague-Dawley rats. Nandrolone decanoate (15 mg/kg day) or oil vehicle (sterile arachidis oleum) were administered by intramuscular injections during 14 days. Substance P endopeptidase, a predominantly cytosolic enzyme, generates the bioactive N-terminal fragment substance P(1-7) from the enzyme substrate substance P. Nandrolone decanoate significantly reduced the substance P endopeptidase-like activity compared to control animals in hypothalamus (43% reduction), caudate putamen (44%), substantia nigra (32%) and the ventral tegmental area (27%). It was previously reported that both hypothalamus and caudate putamen contained significantly higher levels of substance P after nandrolone administration. The higher concentration of substance P in these regions could to an extent be attributed to the reduction in substance P endopeptidase-like activity. This result elucidates the important role of peptidase activity in the regulation of the substance P transmitter system. The present study provides additional support for the hypothesis that alterations in the substance P system in certain brain areas may contribute to some of the personality changes reported in connection with AAS abuse.

40 CFR 355.14 - Do I have to aggregate extremely hazardous substances to determine the total quantity present?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 28 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Do I have to aggregate extremely hazardous substances to determine the total quantity present? 355.14 Section 355.14 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) SUPERFUND, EMERGENCY PLANNING, AND COMMUNITY RIGHT-TO...

Atomoxetine for the Treatment of ADHD in Incarcerated Adolescents.

PubMed

Jillani, Sarah; Patel, Prina; Trestman, Robert; Kamath, Jayesh

2016-06-01

Effective interventions for adolescents with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in the correctional setting may improve care during incarceration, decrease risk of substance relapse, and reduce recidivism after release from the correctional setting of these individuals. The present report delineates the epidemiology of adolescent ADHD in the correctional setting and its association with substance use disorders and comorbid psychiatric illnesses. Evidence suggests that adolescents with ADHD have a higher risk of arrest and incarceration during adulthood. The present report examines evidence related to efficacy of atomoxetine, a nonstimulant medication for the treatment of adolescent ADHD, and presents data from a case series evaluating the effectiveness of atomoxetine for the treatment of adolescent ADHD in the Connecticut correctional setting. The results from the case series suggest that atomoxetine is effective for the treatment of adolescent ADHD in the context of significant past substance use. In summary, adolescents with ADHD have an elevated risk of incarceration and developing substance use disorders. The present review and pilot case series suggest that atomoxetine is an effective treatment for adolescents with ADHD in the correctional setting. © 2016 American Academy of Psychiatry and the Law.

Composition for detecting uranyl

DOEpatents

Baylor, L.C.; Stephens, S.M.

1994-01-01

The present invention relates to an indicator composition for use in spectrophotometric detection of a substance in a solution, and a method for making the composition. Useful indicators are sensitive to the particular substance being measured, but are unaffected by the fluid and other chemical species that may be present in the fluid. Optical indicators are used to measure the uranium concentration of process solutions in facilities for extracting uranium from ores, production of nuclear fuels, and reprocessing of irradiated fuels. The composition comprises an organohalide covalently bonded to an indicator for the substance, in such a manner that the product is itself an indicator that provides increased spectral resolution for detecting the substance. The indicator is preferably arsenazo III and the organohalide is preferably cyanuric chloride. These form a composition that is ideally suited for detecting uranyl.

A mathematical model of diffusion from a steady source of short duration in a finite mixing layer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bianconi, Roberto; Tamponi, Matteo

This paper presents an analytical unsteady-state solution to the atmospheric dispersion equation for substances subject to chemical-physical decay in a finite mixing layer for releases of short duration. This solution is suitable for describing critical events relative to accidental release of toxic, flammable or explosive substances. To implement the solution, the Modello per Rilasci a Breve Termine (MRBT) code has been developed, for some characteristics parameters of which the results of the sensitivity analysis are presented. Moreover some examples of application to the calculation of exposure to toxic substances and to the determination of the ignition field of flammable substances are described. Finally, the mathematical model described can be used to interpret the phenomenon of pollutant accumulation.

How does aging affect the types of error made in a visual short-term memory ‘object-recall’ task?

PubMed Central

Sapkota, Raju P.; van der Linde, Ian; Pardhan, Shahina

2015-01-01

This study examines how normal aging affects the occurrence of different types of incorrect responses in a visual short-term memory (VSTM) object-recall task. Seventeen young (Mean = 23.3 years, SD = 3.76), and 17 normally aging older (Mean = 66.5 years, SD = 6.30) adults participated. Memory stimuli comprised two or four real world objects (the memory load) presented sequentially, each for 650 ms, at random locations on a computer screen. After a 1000 ms retention interval, a test display was presented, comprising an empty box at one of the previously presented two or four memory stimulus locations. Participants were asked to report the name of the object presented at the cued location. Errors rates wherein participants reported the names of objects that had been presented in the memory display but not at the cued location (non-target errors) vs. objects that had not been presented at all in the memory display (non-memory errors) were compared. Significant effects of aging, memory load and target recency on error type and absolute error rates were found. Non-target error rate was higher than non-memory error rate in both age groups, indicating that VSTM may have been more often than not populated with partial traces of previously presented items. At high memory load, non-memory error rate was higher in young participants (compared to older participants) when the memory target had been presented at the earliest temporal position. However, non-target error rates exhibited a reversed trend, i.e., greater error rates were found in older participants when the memory target had been presented at the two most recent temporal positions. Data are interpreted in terms of proactive interference (earlier examined non-target items interfering with more recent items), false memories (non-memory items which have a categorical relationship to presented items, interfering with memory targets), slot and flexible resource models, and spatial coding deficits. PMID:25653615

How does aging affect the types of error made in a visual short-term memory 'object-recall' task?

PubMed

Sapkota, Raju P; van der Linde, Ian; Pardhan, Shahina

2014-01-01

This study examines how normal aging affects the occurrence of different types of incorrect responses in a visual short-term memory (VSTM) object-recall task. Seventeen young (Mean = 23.3 years, SD = 3.76), and 17 normally aging older (Mean = 66.5 years, SD = 6.30) adults participated. Memory stimuli comprised two or four real world objects (the memory load) presented sequentially, each for 650 ms, at random locations on a computer screen. After a 1000 ms retention interval, a test display was presented, comprising an empty box at one of the previously presented two or four memory stimulus locations. Participants were asked to report the name of the object presented at the cued location. Errors rates wherein participants reported the names of objects that had been presented in the memory display but not at the cued location (non-target errors) vs. objects that had not been presented at all in the memory display (non-memory errors) were compared. Significant effects of aging, memory load and target recency on error type and absolute error rates were found. Non-target error rate was higher than non-memory error rate in both age groups, indicating that VSTM may have been more often than not populated with partial traces of previously presented items. At high memory load, non-memory error rate was higher in young participants (compared to older participants) when the memory target had been presented at the earliest temporal position. However, non-target error rates exhibited a reversed trend, i.e., greater error rates were found in older participants when the memory target had been presented at the two most recent temporal positions. Data are interpreted in terms of proactive interference (earlier examined non-target items interfering with more recent items), false memories (non-memory items which have a categorical relationship to presented items, interfering with memory targets), slot and flexible resource models, and spatial coding deficits.

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

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

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

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

Exercise in the Treatment of Youth Substance Use Disorders: Review and Recommendations.

PubMed

More, Alissa; Jackson, Ben; Dimmock, James A; Thornton, Ashleigh L; Colthart, Allan; Furzer, Bonnie J

2017-01-01

Substance use disorders among youth represent a significant public health concern. It is well established that regular exercise provides important physical and mental health benefits; however, evidence for the role of exercise as an adjunct component within substance use disorder treatment is scarce. In this review, we identify factors associated with the development and persistence of substance use disorders among youth, identify current treatment modalities, and present evidence to support the efficacy of incorporating exercise participation during rehabilitation. We also provide a series of recommendations for future research that explores the feasibility and effectiveness of exercise participation as a complement to substance use disorder treatment among youth.

The impact of knowledge on attitudes of emergency department staff towards patients with substance related presentations: a quantitative systematic review protocol.

PubMed

Clarke, Diana E; Gonzalez, Miriam; Pereira, Asha; Boyce-Gaudreau, Krystal; Waldman, Celeste; Demczuk, Lisa

2015-10-01

University of Manitoba and Queens Joanna Briggs Collaboration for Patient Safety: a Collaborating Center of the Joanna Briggs Institute The overall objective of this systematic review is to synthesize the available evidence on the relationship between new knowledge (gained through educational interventions about substance use/abuse) and health care providers' attitudes (measured by well validated instruments such as the Drug and Drug Problems Perceptions Questionnaire [DDPPQ], the Short Alcohol and Alcohol Problems Perception Questionnaire [SAAPPQ], etc.) towards patients with substance-related presentations to emergency departments.The specific review question is: Among emergency department staff, does the acquisition of knowledge (on educational interventions about substance use) impact attitudes in relation to their therapeutic role towards patients with substance-related presentations? Substance-related emergency department (ED) visits are common worldwide. Estimates of cases with alcohol involvement presenting to the ED range from 6% to 45%. Research conducted in the UK and Australia suggests that presentations related to illicit drug use are common and have increased in recent years.In 2012, an estimated six million Canadians met the criteria for substance use disorder; alcohol was the most common substance of abuse followed by cannabis and other drugs. The relationship between substance use and physical injury is well documented. The risk of mortality is increased by the side effects of substances on users involved in accidents and trauma. Not surprisingly, substance-related ED visits have been on the rise. Although only 3 to 10% of overall visits are typically related to a primary entrance complaint of drug or alcohol use or abuse, studies estimate that up to 35% of ED visits may be directly or indirectly substance related. These reasons may range from injury resulting from accidents or violence to substance-related illnesses.Health care providers (i.e., typically medical and nursing staff) have often perceived substance using patients as a challenging group to manage and as adding to the workload of already busy staff. The challenges of providing care to this patient population may be attributed to: (1) the chaotic ED environment, (2) health care providers' lack of knowledge, experience or skill in identifying and addressing substance misuse, (3) health care providers' lack of support structures such as sufficient time, staff and resources in working with this population, (4) health care providers' negative attitudes towards this patient population, (5) unpleasant tasks (i.e. intoxicated patients who urinate on themselves) associated with care delivery to this patient population, (6) patients' aggressive or violent behavior, and (7) patients' lack of motivation to change.Health care providers' attitudes towards patients with substance use problems have been found to affect health care delivery. This is of concern given the research findings that suggest they generally hold negative attitudes towards this patient population. For instance, in their study of nurses' attitudes towards patients who use illicit drugs, Ford, Bammer and Becker found that only 15% of nurses gained satisfaction from caring for these patients and only 30% were motivated to care for this patient group. Researchers who have examined substance using patients' experiences accessing health care also point to the suboptimal attitudes of health care providers towards this patient population. In the Neale, Tompkins and Sheard study of the barriers encountered by injecting drug users when accessing health and social care services, injecting drug users reported that they were often treated poorly or differently from other patients (i.e. sent home prematurely, not given appropriate aftercare or discharge), and made them feel not worthy of receiving help. Although the evidence relating to health care providers' attitudes toward substance using patients comes primarily from studies conducted in mental health or primary care settings, researchers who have examined ED staff attitudes towards this patient population paint a similar picture. For instance, Camilli & Martin's review of ED nurses' attitudes toward intoxicated and psychiatric patients suggests that nurses are often frustrated when it comes to these patients as they are time consuming and offer repeat business to the ED. An ethnographic study of care delivery in an ED also points to the negative attitudes of ED staff towards this patient group. Henderson, Stacey and Dohan found that ED providers had interactions with substance using patients that may be considered excluding, rejecting or de-valuing, that is, in observations and interviews, providers often spoke of this patient population as abusing the system, overusing system resources, and not caring about their own health care. Other negative attitudes of ED staff towards substance using patients found in the literature pertain to: (1) being reluctant to ask patients about substance use, (2) believing little can be done in EDs to help these patients, (2) feeling angry or professionally dissatisfied when treating this patient group, (4) lacking a sense of responsibility for referring to specialist treatment, and (5) believing patients lack motivation to change following interaction with medical staff.Although there is considerable evidence that indicates health care providers hold negative attitudes towards substance using patients, there are also some studies that have found positive attitudes towards this patient population. For instance, in their study of physician attitudes toward injecting drug users, Ding et al. found that seeing more injecting drug users was associated with more positive attitudes towards this patient population. Similarly, Kelleher & Cotter's descriptive study of ED doctors' and nurses' knowledge and attitudes concerning substance use found that the ED doctors and nurses who participated in the study had positive attitudes with regards to working with substance using patients. In the majority of these studies, however, positive attitudes were reported when health care providers were professionals working in addiction services, had more experience caring for this patient population, or had more personal contact with substance using patients. But does knowledge about substance use impact attitudes towards patients with substance-related presentations?Providing education or experience-based exercises may impact positively on attitudes towards substance using patients. Brief educational interventions, typically, informational sessions, either didactic or online, about alcohol and other drugs and how to assess and work with individuals using them, have been shown to have a positive impact on students' attitudes, knowledge and confidence relating to substance use and substance users. Whether ED staff attitudes towards patients with substance-related presentations are similarly impacted by the knowledge acquired through educational interventions remains unknown. A full systematic review of the literature will answer this question. A systematic review that examines the impact of knowledge on attitudes of ED staff will inform the design of educational strategies with emergency department staff to improve attitudes towards this patient population.To confirm that no other systematic review has been published on this topic, a preliminary literature search was conducted. The following databases were searched and no current or planned review was found related to this topic: JBI Database of Systematic Reviews and Implementation Reports, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, PROSPERO, CINAHL, PubMed, and Scopus. Grey literature was also searched; however, no systematic review addressing the impact of knowledge on attitudes of ED staff towards patients with substance-related presentations was located.

Psychometric modeling of abuse and dependence symptoms across six illicit substances indicates novel dimensions of misuse

PubMed Central

Clark, Shaunna L.; Gillespie, Nathan A.; Adkins, Daniel E.; Kendler, Kenneth S.; Neale, Michael C.

2015-01-01

Aims This study explored the factor structure of DSM III-R/IV symptoms for substance abuse and dependence across six illicit substance categories in a population-based sample of males. Method DSM III-R/IV drug abuse and dependence symptoms for cannabis, sedatives, stimulants, cocaine, opioids and hallucinogens from 4179 males born 1940-1970 from the population-based Virginia Adult Twin Study of Psychiatric and Substance Use Disorders were analyzed. Confirmatory factor analyses tested specific hypotheses regarding the latent structure of substance misuse for a comprehensive battery of 13 misuse symptoms measured across six illicit substance categories (78 items). Results Among the models fit, the latent structure of substance misuse was best represented by a combination of substance-specific factors and misuse symptom-specific factors. We found no support for a general liability factor to illicit substance misuse. Conclusions Results indicate that liability to misuse illicit substances is drug class specific, with little evidence for a general liability factor. Additionally, unique dimensions capturing propensity toward specific misuse symptoms (e.g., tolerance, withdrawal) across substances were identified. While this finding requires independent replication, the possibility of symptom-specific misuse factors, present in multiple substances, raises the prospect of genetic, neurobiological and behavioral predispositions toward distinct, narrowly defined features of drug abuse and dependence. PMID:26517709

A case series of patients diagnosed with orofacial granulomatosis presenting primarily with dense infiltrates and severe periorbital edema.

PubMed

Sabet-Peyman, Esfandiar J; Woodward, Julie A

2014-01-01

Orofacial granulomatosis is a relapsing nonnecrotizing granulomatous syndrome that classically presents with lip and perioral swelling. Over the years, several patients have been referred to the Duke Eye Center Oculoplastics Department for severe, progressive, recurrent eyelid swelling interfering with both their functional vision and their appearance. In this IRB approved retrospective case series, we describe the clinical course of 5 such patients, including their presenting symptoms, diagnosis, and response to treatment. We hope that oculoplastics specialists will consider this entity in the differential diagnosis of periorbital edema and consider initiating localized anti-inflammatory treatment once the diagnosis has been made.

The Gathering Storm: Federal Laws That Have a Serious Potential of Interfering with the Mission and Character of Evangelical Christian Colleges and Universities

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Davids, James A.

2012-01-01

In the early 1980s, the University of Notre Dame Law School's Center for Constitutional Studies surveyed 801 religiously affiliated colleges to determine which federal laws and regulations had a "serious potential" of interfering with the character and mission of the schools. From the 226 responses, the Center identified 11 issues, three…

Journalists and substance use: A systematic literature review.

PubMed

MacDonald, Jasmine B; Saliba, Anthony J; Hodgins, Gene

2016-01-01

Journalists' exposure to potentially traumatic events (PTEs), high levels of job stress, and anecdotal reports within the industry seem to suggest that journalists are at greater risk than the general population to experience substance use disorders. The present systematic literature review (SLR) aims to provide a concise, comprehensive, and systematic review of the quantitative literature relating to journalists' experience of substance use. The systematic review method adopted within the present study was based on that prescribed by Fink in the 2010 book, Conducting systematic literature reviews: From the internet to paper, 3rd ed., which contains three main elements: sampling the literature, screening the literature, and extracting data. Alcohol consumption is the most widely studied substance in journalist samples and is discussed in relation to quantity, level of risk, and potential alcoholism. The review also considers journalists' use of substances, including cigarettes, cannabis, and other illicit substances. In particular, comparisons are made between journalistic roles and gender. The research is piecemeal in nature, in that more recent research does not build upon the research that has come before it. Much of what has been reported does not reflect the progress that has taken place in recent years within the alcohol consumption and substance use field in terms of theory, assessment, scale development, practice, and interventions with those who use or are addicted to various substances. This SLR raises a number of methodological and theoretical issues to be explored and addressed in future research.

Quantitative determination of mycotoxins in urine by LC-MS/MS.

PubMed

Ahn, J; Kim, D; Kim, H; Jahng, K-Y

2010-12-01

Naturally occurring mycotoxins are responsible for a wide array of adverse health effects. The measurement of urinary mycotoxin levels is a useful means of assessing an individual's exposure, but the development of sensitive and accurate analytical methods for detecting mycotoxins and their metabolites in urine samples is challenging. Urinary mycotoxins are present in low pg ml⁻¹ concentrations, and the chromatographic identification of their metabolites can be obscured by other endogenous metabolites. We developed an analytical method focused on the selection of two appropriate multiple-reaction monitoring transition for unambiguous identification and quantification of carcinogenic aflatoxin M₁ (AFM₁), ochratoxin A (OTA) and fumonisin B₁, B₂ (FB₁, FB₂) in urine samples from a small volunteer group in a pilot study. AFM₁, OTA, FB₁ and FB₂ were concentrated selectively, interfering substances were removed using an immunoaffinity column (IAC), and mycotoxins were measured using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) in combination with a stable-isotope standard-dilution assay (SIDA). The method was sensitive enough to measure mycotoxins and their metabolites at pg ml⁻¹ levels in urine. The combination of LC-MS/MS and SIDA was critical to distinguishing pseudo-OTα interference from genuine OTα. Twelve urine samples contained OTA ranging from 0.013 to 0.093 ng ml⁻¹ (mean = 0.031 ng ml⁻¹). AFM₁ were detected in one sample at a 0.002 ng ml⁻¹ level, while FB₁ and FB₂ were undetectable in all 12 samples. None of the samples in this pilot study contained a detectable level of OTα, despite the presence of OTA, and this may suggest the need for further epidemiological investigation of OTA exposure in the Korean population.

Polysaccharide intercellular adhesin in biofilm: structural and regulatory aspects

PubMed Central

Arciola, Carla Renata; Campoccia, Davide; Ravaioli, Stefano; Montanaro, Lucio

2015-01-01

Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis are the leading etiologic agents of implant-related infections. Biofilm formation is the main pathogenetic mechanism leading to the chronicity and irreducibility of infections. The extracellular polymeric substances of staphylococcal biofilms are the polysaccharide intercellular adhesin (PIA), extracellular-DNA, proteins, and amyloid fibrils. PIA is a poly-β(1-6)-N-acetylglucosamine (PNAG), partially deacetylated, positively charged, whose synthesis is mediated by the icaADBC locus. DNA sequences homologous to ica locus are present in many coagulase-negative staphylococcal species, among which S. lugdunensis, however, produces a biofilm prevalently consisting of proteins. The product of icaA is an N-acetylglucosaminyltransferase that synthetizes PIA oligomers from UDP-N-acetylglucosamine. The product of icaD gives optimal efficiency to IcaA. The product of icaC is involved in the externalization of the nascent polysaccharide. The product of icaB is an N-deacetylase responsible for the partial deacetylation of PIA. The expression of ica locus is affected by environmental conditions. In S. aureus and S. epidermidis ica-independent alternative mechanisms of biofilm production have been described. S. epidermidis and S. aureus undergo to a phase variation for the biofilm production that has been ascribed, in turn, to the transposition of an insertion sequence in the icaC gene or to the expansion/contraction of a tandem repeat naturally harbored within icaC. A role is played by the quorum sensing system, which negatively regulates biofilm formation, favoring the dispersal phase that disseminates bacteria to new infection sites. Interfering with the QS system is a much debated strategy to combat biofilm-related infections. In the search of vaccines against staphylococcal infections deacetylated PNAG retained on the surface of S. aureus favors opsonophagocytosis and is a potential candidate for immune-protection. PMID:25713785

One-pot preparation of PEDOT:PSS-reduced graphene decorated with Au nanoparticles for enzymatic electrochemical sensing of H2O2

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mercante, Luiza A.; Facure, Murilo H. M.; Sanfelice, Rafaela C.; Migliorini, Fernanda L.; Mattoso, Luiz H. C.; Correa, Daniel S.

2017-06-01

The development of novel graphene-based nanocomposites is a hotspot in materials science due to their unique optical, electronic, thermal, mechanical and catalytic properties for varied applications. The present work reports on the development of a graphene-based ternary nanocomposite of poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)-poly(styrenesulfonate), reduced graphene oxide and gold nanoparticles (PEDOT:PSS-rGO-AuNPs) for the detection of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). The hybrid nanocomposite showed superior electrochemical properties and higher stability compared to each individual component as electrode materials, showing a synergistic effect between PEDOT, rGO and AuNPs. The nanocomposite was obtained via a facile one-step approach and was assembly with horseradish peroxidase (HRP). The PEDOT:PSS-rGO-AuNPs-HRP modified electrode has been used for the amperometric detection of H2O2 and exhibited a high sensitivity of up to 677 μA mM-1 cm-2, with a wide linear range from 5 to 400 μM and a low detection limit of 0.08 μM (S/N = 3). This developed enzymatic biosensor showed to be highly stable and unresponsive to potentially interfering substances, and it could be used for sensing H2O2 in real samples, including tap water and bovine milk samples. These enhanced sensing performance could be ascribed to the intimate contact of AuNPs onto the rough surface of the PEDOT:PSS-rGO nanocomposite, which has a high electrical conductivity and large surface area, providing it as an excellent substrate for the growth and support of nanoparticles. The method developed in this work opens up a general route to prepare a wide range of graphene-based hybrid nanocomposite films with multiple functions including sensing and biosensing.

Sensitivity of species to chemicals: dose-response characteristics for various test types (LC(50), LR(50) and LD(50)) and modes of action.

PubMed

Hendriks, A Jan; Awkerman, Jill A; de Zwart, Dick; Huijbregts, Mark A J

2013-11-01

While variable sensitivity of model species to common toxicants has been addressed in previous studies, a systematic analysis of inter-species variability for different test types, modes of action and species is as of yet lacking. Hence, the aim of the present study was to identify similarities and differences in contaminant levels affecting cold-blooded and warm-blooded species administered via different routes. To that end, data on lethal water concentrations LC50, tissue residues LR50 and oral doses LD50 were collected from databases, each representing the largest of its kind. LC50 data were multiplied by a bioconcentration factor (BCF) to convert them to internal concentrations that allow for comparison among species. For each endpoint data set, we calculated the mean and standard deviation of species' lethal level per compound. Next, the means and standard deviations were averaged by mode of action. Both the means and standard deviations calculated depended on the number of species tested, which is at odds with quality standard setting procedures. Means calculated from (BCF) LC50, LR50 and LD50 were largely similar, suggesting that different administration routes roughly yield similar internal levels. Levels for compounds interfering biochemically with elementary life processes were about one order of magnitude below that of narcotics disturbing membranes, and neurotoxic pesticides and dioxins induced death in even lower amounts. Standard deviations for LD50 data were similar across modes of action, while variability of LC50 values was lower for narcotics than for substances with a specific mode of action. The study indicates several directions to go for efficient use of available data in risk assessment and reduction of species testing. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The onset and growth of the 1990 equatorial disturbance on Saturn

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Beebe, R. F.; Barnet, C.; Sada, P. V.; Murrell, A. S.

1992-01-01

Observational data are presented which are consistent with the generation of the Saturn equatorial surface brightenings observed in September, 1990, by a single convective disturbance which created constructively and destructively interfering wave patterns. The initial development, size, duration, and appearance of this storm are similar to the equatorial storms of 1876 and 1933. Attention is given to the motions of the initial convective disturbance and its expansion and mature phases.

A new unified approach to analyze wing-body-tail configurations with control surfaces in steady, oscillatory and fully unsteady, subsonic and supersonic flows

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tseng, K.; Morino, L.

1975-01-01

A general formulation for the analysis of steady and unsteady, subsonic and supersonic potential aerodynamics for arbitrary complex geometries is presented. The theoretical formulation, the numerical procedure, and numerical results are included. In particular, generalized forces for fully unsteady (complex frequency) aerodynamics for an AGARD coplanar wing-tail interfering configuration in both subsonic and supersonic flows are considered.

Study on real-time elevator brake failure predictive system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guo, Jun; Fan, Jinwei

2013-10-01

This paper presented a real-time failure predictive system of the elevator brake. Through inspecting the running state of the coil by a high precision long range laser triangulation non-contact measurement sensor, the displacement curve of the coil is gathered without interfering the original system. By analyzing the displacement data using the diagnostic algorithm, the hidden danger of the brake system can be discovered in time and thus avoid the according accident.

One dozen considerations when working with women in substance abuse groups.

PubMed

Bright, Charlotte Lyn; Osborne, Victoria A; Greif, Geoffrey L

2011-01-01

Women and men have different histories, presentations, and behaviors in substance abuse groups. Twelve considerations are offered for the beginning group leader when encountering women with substance abuse issues. These include understanding sexism, what brings women to treatment, and how women behave in group treatment. Implications for clinical practice with women in single-gender and mixed-gender groups are included.

Substance Abuse Treatment in Adult and Juvenile Correctional Facilities: Findings from the Uniform Facility Data Set 1997 Survey of Correctional Facilities.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Marsden, Mary Ellen, Ed.; Straw, Richard S., Ed.

This report presents methodology and findings from the Uniform Facility Data Set (UFDS) 1997 Survey of Correctional Facilities, which surveyed about 7,600 adult and juvenile correctional facilities to identify those that provide on-site substance abuse treatment to their inmates or residents. The survey assesses substance abuse treatment provided…

Self-Reported Substance Use among High School Students with and without Learning Difficulties

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Carroll, Annemaree; Houghton, Stephen; Bourgeois, Amanda

2014-01-01

A total of 197 Year 9 and 10 students, 74 of whom had learning difficulties (LD), from two high schools in Brisbane, the capital city of Queensland, Australia, self-reported their substance use. Seventeen substances, including two fictitious ones to detect over-reporting, were presented to participants for them to indicate their current usage,…

Toxic Substances Registry System: Index of Material Safety Data Sheets. Revised

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1997-01-01

The October 1997 revision of the Index of Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for the Kennedy Space Center (KSC) Toxic Substances Registry System (TSRS) is presented. The MSDS lists toxic substances by manufacturer, trade name, stock number, and distributor. The index provides information on the hazards, use, and chemical composition of materials stored and used at KSC.

16 CFR 1500.40 - Method of testing toxic substances.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... not require animals, are presented in the CPSC's animal testing policy set forth in 16 CFR 1500.232. A... test animals. The method of testing the toxic substances referred to in § 1500.3(c)(1)(ii)(C) and (c)(2... 16 Commercial Practices 2 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Method of testing toxic substances. 1500.40...

Mother-Infant Group Psychotherapy as an Intensive Treatment in Early Interaction among Mothers with Substance Abuse Problems

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Belt, Ritva; Punamaki, Raija-Leena

2007-01-01

In this article we present a novel method of outpatient care: brief, dynamic mother-infant group psychotherapy with mothers who have substance use problems. In this therapy, substance abuse treatment is part of mental health and parenting interventions. The focus is on preventing disturbance in the mother-infant relationship in this high-risk…

SUBSTANCE-ABUSING PREGNANT WOMEN: PRENATAL INTERVENTION USING ULTRASOUND CONSULTATION AND MENTALIZATION TO ENHANCE THE MOTHER-CHILD RELATIONSHIP AND REDUCE SUBSTANCE USE.

PubMed

Pajulo, Helena; Pajulo, Marjukka; Jussila, Heidi; Ekholm, Eeva

2016-07-01

Substance-abusing pregnant and parenting women are considered one of the most challenging, but important, target groups for developing early parenting interventions. Some valuable efforts to develop such interventions have been made in the organizational sector in Finland. However, there is a great need for new ways of work that would simultaneously concentrate in substance-abuse treatment and enhance parenting in public healthcare settings. The present article describes the background, content, and protocol of a new prenatal intervention developed for substance-abusing pregnant women in a hospital setting in public healthcare. The intervention includes two new elements and pathways aimed to enhance the mothers' curiosity toward her developing child and provide motivation to stay abstinent from substance use. The pathways are interactive ultrasound consultation and a new pregnancy diary, both using a parental mentalization focus. The intervention elements, experiences from running the intervention, evaluation protocol, and general characteristics of the study sample gained (n = 90) are described and discussed. Two case vignettes from the study sample are presented, and the applicability of this prenatal work with other groups and settings is considered. © 2016 Michigan Association for Infant Mental Health.

Impact of contextual factors and substance characteristics on perspectives toward cognitive enhancement.

PubMed

Sattler, Sebastian; Forlini, Cynthia; Racine, Eric; Sauer, Carsten

2013-01-01

Enhancing cognitive performance with substances--especially prescription drugs--is a fiercely debated topic among scholars and in the media. The empirical basis for these discussions is limited, given that the actual nature of factors that influence the acceptability of and willingness to use cognitive enhancement substances remains unclear. In an online factorial survey, contextual and substance-specific characteristics of substances that improve academic performance were varied experimentally and presented to respondents. Students in four German universities rated their willingness to use and moral acceptance of different substances for cognitive enhancement. We found that the overall willingness to use performance enhancing substances is low. Most respondents considered the use of these substances as morally unacceptable. Situational influences such as peer pressure, policies concerning substance use, relative performance level of peers, but also characteristics of the substance, such as perceptions of substance safety, shape the willingness and acceptability of using a substance to enhance academic performance. Among the findings is evidence of a contagion effect meaning that the willingness was higher when the respondents have more CE drug users in their social network. We also found deterrence effects from strong side effects of using the substance, as well as from policy regulations and sanctions. Regulations might activate social norms against usage and sanctions can be seen as costly to users. Moreover, enhancement substances seem to be most tempting to low performers to catch up with others compared to high performers. By identifying contextual factors and substance characteristics influencing the willingness and acceptability of cognitive enhancers, policy approaches could consider these insights to better manage the use of such substances.

The system with zwitterionic lactose-based surfactant for complexation and delivery of small interfering ribonucleic acid—A structural and spectroscopic study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Skupin, Michalina; Sobczak, Krzysztof; Zieliński, Ryszard; Kozak, Maciej

2016-05-01

Systems suitable for the effective preparation of complexes with siRNA (small interfering RNA) are at the center of interest in the area of research work on the delivery of the RNA-based drugs (RNA-therapeutics). This article presents results of a study on the structural effects associated with siRNA complexation by a surfactant comprising a lactose group (N-(3-propanesulfone)-N-dodecyl-amino-beta-D-lactose hydrochloride, LA12). The double stranded siRNA oligomer (21 base pairs) used in this study is responsible for silencing a gene that can be important in the therapy of myotonic dystrophy type 1. The obtained siRNA/LA12 lipoplexes were studied using the methods of small angle scattering of synchrotron radiation, circular dichroism spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and electrophoretic mobility tests. Lipoplexes form in solution stable lamellar or cubic phases. The surfactant selected for the study shows much lower cytotoxicity and good complexation abilities of siRNA than dicationic or polycationic surfactants.

Functional Nanostructures for Effective Delivery of Small Interfering RNA Therapeutics

PubMed Central

Hong, Cheol Am; Nam, Yoon Sung

2014-01-01

Small interfering RNA (siRNA) has proved to be a powerful tool for target-specific gene silencing via RNA interference (RNAi). Its ability to control targeted gene expression gives new hope to gene therapy as a treatment for cancers and genetic diseases. However, siRNA shows poor pharmacological properties, such as low serum stability, off-targeting, and innate immune responses, which present a significant challenge for clinical applications. In addition, siRNA cannot cross the cell membrane for RNAi activity because of its anionic property and stiff structure. Therefore, the development of a safe, stable, and efficient system for the delivery of siRNA therapeutics into the cytoplasm of targeted cells is crucial. Several nanoparticle platforms for siRNA delivery have been developed to overcome the major hurdles facing the therapeutic uses of siRNA. This review covers a broad spectrum of non-viral siRNA delivery systems developed for enhanced cellular uptake and targeted gene silencing in vitro and in vivo and discusses their characteristics and opportunities for clinical applications of therapeutic siRNA. PMID:25285170

A hybrid segmentation approach for geographic atrophy in fundus auto-fluorescence images for diagnosis of age-related macular degeneration.

PubMed

Lee, Noah; Laine, Andrew F; Smith, R Theodore

2007-01-01

Fundus auto-fluorescence (FAF) images with hypo-fluorescence indicate geographic atrophy (GA) of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) in age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Manual quantification of GA is time consuming and prone to inter- and intra-observer variability. Automatic quantification is important for determining disease progression and facilitating clinical diagnosis of AMD. In this paper we describe a hybrid segmentation method for GA quantification by identifying hypo-fluorescent GA regions from other interfering retinal vessel structures. First, we employ background illumination correction exploiting a non-linear adaptive smoothing operator. Then, we use the level set framework to perform segmentation of hypo-fluorescent areas. Finally, we present an energy function combining morphological scale-space analysis with a geometric model-based approach to perform segmentation refinement of false positive hypo- fluorescent areas due to interfering retinal structures. The clinically apparent areas of hypo-fluorescence were drawn by an expert grader and compared on a pixel by pixel basis to our segmentation results. The mean sensitivity and specificity of the ROC analysis were 0.89 and 0.98%.

Inhibition of Virulence Gene Expression in Staphylococcus aureus by Novel Depsipeptides from a Marine Photobacterium

PubMed Central

Mansson, Maria; Nielsen, Anita; Kjærulff, Louise; Gotfredsen, Charlotte H.; Wietz, Matthias; Ingmer, Hanne; Gram, Lone; Larsen, Thomas O.

2011-01-01

During a global research expedition, more than five hundred marine bacterial strains capable of inhibiting the growth of pathogenic bacteria were collected. The purpose of the present study was to determine if these marine bacteria are also a source of compounds that interfere with the agr quorum sensing system that controls virulence gene expression in Staphylococcus aureus. Using a gene reporter fusion bioassay, we recorded agr interference as enhanced expression of spa, encoding Protein A, concomitantly with reduced expression of hla, encoding α-hemolysin, and rnaIII encoding RNAIII, the effector molecule of agr. A marine Photobacterium produced compounds interfering with agr in S. aureus strain 8325-4, and bioassay-guided fractionation of crude extracts led to the isolation of two novel cyclodepsipeptides, designated solonamide A and B. Northern blot analysis confirmed the agr interfering activity of pure solonamides in both S. aureus strain 8325-4 and the highly virulent, community-acquired strain USA300 (CA-MRSA). To our knowledge, this is the first report of inhibitors of the agr system by a marine bacterium. PMID:22363239

Advanced Fire Detector for Space Applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kutzner, Joerg

2012-01-01

A document discusses an optical carbon monoxide sensor for early fire detection. During the sensor development, a concept was implemented to allow reliable carbon monoxide detection in the presence of interfering absorption signals. Methane interference is present in the operating wavelength range of the developed prototype sensor for carbon monoxide detection. The operating parameters of the prototype sensor have been optimized so that interference with methane is minimized. In addition, simultaneous measurement of methane is implemented, and the instrument automatically corrects the carbon monoxide signal at high methane concentrations. This is possible because VCSELs (vertical cavity surface emitting lasers) with extended current tuning capabilities are implemented in the optical device. The tuning capabilities of these new laser sources are sufficient to cover the wavelength range of several absorption lines. The delivered carbon monoxide sensor (COMA 1) reliably measures low carbon monoxide levels even in the presence of high methane signals. The signal bleed-over is determined during system calibration and is then accounted for in the system parameters. The sensor reports carbon monoxide concentrations reliably for (interfering) methane concentrations up to several thousand parts per million.

The system with zwitterionic lactose-based surfactant for complexation and delivery of small interfering ribonucleic acid—A structural and spectroscopic study

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

Skupin, Michalina; Sobczak, Krzysztof; Zieliński, Ryszard

Systems suitable for the effective preparation of complexes with siRNA (small interfering RNA) are at the center of interest in the area of research work on the delivery of the RNA-based drugs (RNA-therapeutics). This article presents results of a study on the structural effects associated with siRNA complexation by a surfactant comprising a lactose group (N-(3-propanesulfone)-N-dodecyl-amino-beta-D-lactose hydrochloride, LA12). The double stranded siRNA oligomer (21 base pairs) used in this study is responsible for silencing a gene that can be important in the therapy of myotonic dystrophy type 1. The obtained siRNA/LA12 lipoplexes were studied using the methods of small anglemore » scattering of synchrotron radiation, circular dichroism spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and electrophoretic mobility tests. Lipoplexes form in solution stable lamellar or cubic phases. The surfactant selected for the study shows much lower cytotoxicity and good complexation abilities of siRNA than dicationic or polycationic surfactants.« less

Contributions of 3'-overhang to the dissociation of small interfering RNAs from the PAZ domain: molecular dynamics simulation study.

PubMed

Lee, Hui Sun; Lee, Soo Nam; Joo, Chul Hyun; Lee, Heuiran; Lee, Han Saem; Yoon, Seung Yong; Kim, Yoo Kyum; Choe, Han

2007-03-01

RNA interference (RNAi) is a 'knock-down' reaction to reduce expression of a specific gene through highly regulated, enzyme-mediated processes. Small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) are RNA molecules that play an effector role in RNAi and can bind the PAZ domains present in Dicer and RISC. We investigated the interaction between the PAZ domain and the siRNA-like duplexes through dissociation molecular dynamics (DMD) simulations. Specifically, we focused on the response of the PAZ domain to various 3'-overhang structures of the siRNA-like duplexes. We found that the siRNA-like duplex with the 3' UU-overhang made relatively more stable complex with the PAZ domain compared to those with 3' CC-, AA-, and GG-overhangs. The siRNA-like duplex with UU-overhang was easily dissociated from the PAZ domain once the structural stability of the complex is impaired. Interestingly, the 3' UU-overhang spent the least time at the periphery region of the binding pocket during the dissociation process, which can be mainly attributable to UU-overhang's smallest number of hydrogen bonds.

Deconvolution of seed and RNA-binding protein crosstalk in RNAi-based functional genomics.

PubMed

Suzuki, Hiroshi I; Spengler, Ryan M; Grigelioniene, Giedre; Kobayashi, Tatsuya; Sharp, Phillip A

2018-05-01

RNA interference (RNAi) is a major, powerful platform for gene perturbations, but is restricted by off-target mechanisms. Communication between RNAs, small RNAs, and RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) is a pervasive feature of cellular RNA networks. We present a crosstalk scenario, designated as crosstalk with endogenous RBPs' (ceRBP), in which small interfering RNAs or microRNAs with seed sequences that overlap RBP motifs have extended biological effects by perturbing endogenous RBP activity. Systematic analysis of small interfering RNA (siRNA) off-target data and genome-wide RNAi cancer lethality screens using 501 human cancer cell lines, a cancer dependency map, identified that seed-to-RBP crosstalk is widespread, contributes to off-target activity, and affects RNAi performance. Specifically, deconvolution of the interactions between gene knockdown and seed-mediated silencing effects in the cancer dependency map showed widespread contributions of seed-to-RBP crosstalk to growth-phenotype modulation. These findings suggest a novel aspect of microRNA biology and offer a basis for improvement of RNAi agents and RNAi-based functional genomics.

Sign phase transition in the problem of interfering directed paths

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Baldwin, C. L.; Laumann, C. R.; Spivak, B.

2018-01-01

We investigate the statistical properties of interfering directed paths in disordered media. At long distance, the average sign of the sum over paths may tend to zero (sign disordered) or remain finite (sign ordered) depending on dimensionality and the concentration of negative scattering sites x . We show that in two dimensions the sign-ordered phase is unstable even for arbitrarily small x by identifying rare destabilizing events. In three dimensions, we present strong evidence that there is a sign phase transition at a finite xc>0 . These results have consequences for several different physical systems. In two-dimensional insulators at low temperature, the variable-range-hopping magnetoresistance is always negative, while in three dimensions, it changes sign at the point of the sign phase transition. We also show that in the sign-disordered regime a small magnetic field may enhance superconductivity in a random system of D -wave superconducting grains embedded in a metallic matrix. Finally, the existence of the sign phase transition in three dimensions implies new features in the spin-glass phase diagram at high temperature.

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

Ma, Xusheng, E-mail: maxushengtt@163.com; Yang, Xing; Nian, Xiaofeng

Peste des petits ruminants virus (PPRV) causes a fatal disease in small ruminants. V protein of PPRV plays a pivotal role in interfering with host innate immunity by blocking IFNs signaling through interacting with STAT1 and STAT2. In the present study, the results demonstrated that PPRV V protein blocks IFN actions in a dose dependent manner and restrains the translocation of STAT1/2 proteins. We speculate that the translocation inhibition might be caused by the interfering of the downstream of STAT protein. Mutagenesis defines that Cys cluster and Trp motif of PPRV V protein are essential for STAT-mediated IFN signaling. Thesemore » findings give a new sight for the further studies to understand the delicate mechanism of PPRV to escape the IFN signaling. - Highlights: • PPRV V protein inhibits type I IFN production and blocks its activation. • PPRV V protein negatively regulates activation of ISRE and GAS promoter. • PPRV V protein inhibits nuclear translocation of STAT protein by non-degradation. • PNT and VCT domain of PPRV V protein inhibit IFN transduction. • PPRV V protein binds with STAT protein via some conserved motifs.« less

Fast detection of air contaminants using immunobiological methods

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schmitt, Katrin; Bolwien, Carsten; Sulz, Gerd; Koch, Wolfgang; Dunkhorst, Wilhelm; Lödding, Hubert; Schwarz, Katharina; Holländer, Andreas; Klockenbring, Torsten; Barth, Stefan; Seidel, Björn; Hofbauer, Wolfgang; Rennebarth, Torsten; Renzl, Anna

2009-05-01

The fast and direct identification of possibly pathogenic microorganisms in air is gaining increasing interest due to their threat for public health, e.g. in clinical environments or in clean rooms of food or pharmaceutical industries. We present a new detection method allowing the direct recognition of relevant germs or bacteria via fluorescence-labeled antibodies within less than one hour. In detail, an air-sampling unit passes particles in the relevant size range to a substrate which contains antibodies with fluorescence labels for the detection of a specific microorganism. After the removal of the excess antibodies the optical detection unit comprising reflected-light and epifluorescence microscopy can identify the microorganisms by fast image processing on a single-particle level. First measurements with the system to identify various test particles as well as interfering influences have been performed, in particular with respect to autofluorescence of dust particles. Specific antibodies for the detection of Aspergillus fumigatus spores have been established. The biological test system consists of protein A-coated polymer particles which are detected by a fluorescence-labeled IgG. Furthermore the influence of interfering particles such as dust or debris is discussed.

Use of high-resolution mass spectrometry to investigate a metabolite interference during liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometric quantification of a small molecule in toxicokinetic study samples.

PubMed

Furlong, Michael; Bessire, Andrew; Song, Wei; Huntington, Christopher; Groeber, Elizabeth

2010-07-15

During routine liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometric (LC/MS/MS) bioanalysis of a small molecule analyte in rat serum samples from a toxicokinetic study, an unexpected interfering peak was observed in the extracted ion chromatogram of the internal standard. No interfering peaks were observed in the extracted ion chromatogram of the analyte. The dose-dependent peak area response and peak area response versus time profiles of the interfering peak suggested that it might have been related to a metabolite of the dosed compound. Further investigation using high-resolution mass spectrometry led to unequivocal identification of the interfering peak as an N-desmethyl metabolite of the parent analyte. High-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) was also used to demonstrate that the interfering response of the metabolite in the multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) channel of the internal standard was due to an isobaric relationship between the (13)C-isotope of the metabolite and the internal standard (i.e., common precursor ion mass), coupled with a metabolite product ion with identical mass to the product ion used in the MRM transition of the internal standard. These results emphasize (1) the need to carefully evaluate internal standard candidates with regard to potential interferences from metabolites during LC/MS/MS method development, validation and bioanalysis of small molecule analytes in biological matrices; (2) the value of HRMS as a tool to investigate unexpected interferences encountered during LC/MS/MS analysis of small molecules in biological matrices; and (3) the potential for interference regardless of choice of IS and therefore the importance of conducting assay robustness on incurred in vitro or in vivo study samples. Copyright 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

MicroRNA Superfamilies Descended from miR390 and Their Roles in Secondary Small Interfering RNA Biogenesis in Eudicots[W

PubMed Central

Xia, Rui; Meyers, Blake C.; Liu, Zhongchi; Beers, Eric P.; Ye, Songqing; Liu, Zongrang

2013-01-01

Trans-acting small interfering RNAs (tasiRNAs) are a major class of small RNAs performing essential biological functions in plants. The first reported tasiRNA pathway, that of miR173-TAS1/2, produces tasiRNAs regulating a set of pentatricopeptide repeat (PPR) genes and has been characterized only in Arabidopsis thaliana to date. Here, we demonstrate that the microRNA (miRNA)-trans-acting small interfering RNA gene (TAS)-pentatricopeptide repeat-containing gene (PPR)-small interfering RNA pathway is a highly dynamic and widespread feature of eudicots. Nine eudicot plants, representing six different plant families, have evolved similar tasiRNA pathways to initiate phased small interfering RNA (phasiRNA) production from PPR genes. The PPR phasiRNA production is triggered by different 22-nucleotide miRNAs, including miR7122, miR1509, and fve-PPRtri1/2, and through distinct mechanistic strategies exploiting miRNA direct targeting or indirect targeting through TAS-like genes (TASL), one-hit or two-hit, or even two layers of tasiRNA–TASL interactions. Intriguingly, although those miRNA triggers display high sequence divergence caused by the occurrence of frequent point mutations and splicing shifts, their corresponding MIRNA genes show pronounced identity to the Arabidopsis MIR173, implying a common origin of this group of miRNAs (super-miR7122). Further analyses reveal that super-miR7122 may have evolved from a newly defined miR4376 superfamily, which probably originated from the widely conserved miR390. The elucidation of this evolutionary path expands our understanding of the course of miRNA evolution, especially for relatively conserved miRNA families. PMID:23695981

Adolescent brain cognitive development (ABCD) study: Overview of substance use assessment methods.

PubMed

Lisdahl, Krista M; Sher, Kenneth J; Conway, Kevin P; Gonzalez, Raul; Feldstein Ewing, Sarah W; Nixon, Sara Jo; Tapert, Susan; Bartsch, Hauke; Goldstein, Rita Z; Heitzeg, Mary

2018-08-01

One of the objectives of the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) Study (https://abcdstudy.org/) is to establish a national longitudinal cohort of 9 and 10 year olds that will be followed for 10 years in order to prospectively study the risk and protective factors influencing substance use and its consequences, examine the impact of substance use on neurocognitive, health and psychosocial outcomes, and to understand the relationship between substance use and psychopathology. This article provides an overview of the ABCD Study Substance Use Workgroup, provides the goals for the workgroup, rationale for the substance use battery, and includes details on the substance use module methods and measurement tools used during baseline, 6-month and 1-year follow-up assessment time-points. Prospective, longitudinal assessment of these substance use domains over a period of ten years in a nationwide sample of youth presents an unprecedented opportunity to further understand the timing and interactive relationships between substance use and neurocognitive, health, and psychopathology outcomes in youth living in the United States. Copyright © 2018 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

Similarities and Differences in Diagnostic Criterion.

PubMed

Wei, Zhengde; Zhang, Xiaochu

2017-01-01

In this chapter, the main content is to discuss the similarities and differences in diagnostic criteria between substance and non-substance addictions. Firstly, diagnostic criteria of substance addiction were introduced, mainly focused on Diagnostic and Statistical Manual for the Mental Disorders, fifth edition (DSM-5). Then, we described the diagnostic criteria of several non-substance addictions, including gambling disorder, internet addiction, food addiction and hypersexual disorder. Depending on the proof, substance and non-substance addictions have many similarities in symptoms. Though the proposed diagnostic criteria of many non-substance addictions are currently most useful as survey instruments to access the prevalence of the problem, there is little or no validating proof for these diagnostic criteria. Finally, animal model is useful tool for addiction research. But, present animal models for gambling studying do not meet enough diagnostic criteria and could not be regarded as gambling disorder. By introducing the animal models evolved to resemble the diagnostic criteria of substance addiction and two classical paradigms for substance addiction, self-administration and conditioned place preference, we hope it is helpful to improve the validation of animal model of gambling disorder.

40 CFR 355.13 - How do I calculate the quantity of an extremely hazardous substance present in mixtures?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 28 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false How do I calculate the quantity of an extremely hazardous substance present in mixtures? 355.13 Section 355.13 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) SUPERFUND, EMERGENCY PLANNING, AND COMMUNITY RIGHT-TO-KNOW PROGRAMS...

Natural personal care products-analysis of ingredient lists and legal situation.

PubMed

Klaschka, Ursula

2016-01-01

Many natural substances are classified as dangerous substances according to the European regulation on classification and labelling. Are they used in natural personal care products today? One hundred ingredient lists were analyzed to find this out. All products with natural substances contained dangerous natural substances or they contained natural substances, for which the information about their classification as dangerous substances is not available. 54 natural substances quoted in the ingredient lists were found to be classified, with 37 substances being classified due to hazardous effects for skin and eyes. However, the most frequently used natural substances are not classified as dangerous. Natural substances are multi-constituent compounds, leading to two main problems in personal care products: the potential interactions of a multitude of substances and the fact that dangerous constituents are not disclosed in the ingredient lists. For example, the fragrance allergens citral, farnesol, limonene, and linalool are frequent components of the natural substances employed. In addition, 82 products listed allergenic fragrance ingredients as single substances in their ingredient lists. Recommendations for sensitive skin in a product's name do not imply that the '26 fragrance allergens' are omitted. Furthermore, 80 products listed 'parfum'/'aroma', and 50 products listed ethanol. The data show that the loopholes for natural substances and for personal care products in the present European chemical legislation (e.g. the exception for classification and labelling of cosmetic products and the exception for information transfer in the supply chain) are not in line with an adequate consumer and environmental protection.

Partition of pollution between dissolved and particulate phases: what about emerging substances in urban stormwater catchments?

PubMed

Zgheib, Sally; Moilleron, Régis; Saad, Mohamed; Chebbo, Ghassan

2011-01-01

This paper presents results about the occurrence, the concentrations of urban priority substances on both the dissolved and the particulate phases in stormwater. Samples were collected at the outlet of a dense urban catchment in Paris suburb (2.30 km(2)). 13 chemical groups were investigated including 88 individual substances. Results showed that stormwater discharges contained 45 substances among them some metals, organotins, PAHs, PCBs, alkylphenols, pesticides, phthalates, cholorophenols and one volatile organic compound, i.e. methylene chloride. With respect to the European Water Framework Directive, these substances included 47% of the priority hazardous substances (n = 8), 38% of the priority substances (n = 10). The remaining substances (n = 27) belong to a list of others specific urban substances not included in the Water Framework Directive but monitored during this work. Finally, stormwater quality was evaluated by comparing the substance concentrations to environmental quality standards (EQS) and the particulate content to Canadian sediment quality guidelines. This showed that stormwater was highly contaminated and should be treated before being discharged to receiving waters in order to avoid any adverse impact on the river quality. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A descriptive study on emergency department doctors' and nurses' knowledge and attitudes concerning substance use and substance users.

PubMed

Kelleher, Sean; Cotter, Patrick

2009-01-01

The aim of this study was to determine emergency department doctors' and nurses' knowledge and attitudes regarding problematic substance use and substance users. Data were collected using an adapted survey questionnaire and the Substance Abuse Attitude Survey (SAAS). By means of convenience/opportunistic sampling all emergency department doctors and nurses (N=145) working in three university teaching hospitals in Ireland were asked to fill out the knowledge and attitudes questionnaire. A response rate of 46%, N=66 was achieved. Results indicate that participants' current level of knowledge about alcohol and drug misuse in general, is satisfactory. A particular knowledge deficit in relation to intervention strategies, and other substances was identified. The majority of participants have never received any specific training regarding substance use and this suggests that substance using patients are managed inadequately. The SAAS results indicate that participants exhibited near-optimal attitudes for constructive working with substance using patients. There is an urgent need for further in-service training programmes and the development of standard protocols/guidelines for the identification and management of substance using patients who present in the emergency department.

Solution to the problem of interferences in electrochemical sensors using the fill-and-flow channel biosensor.

PubMed

Zhao, Min; Hibbert, D Brynn; Gooding, J Justin

2003-02-01

A generic fill-and-flow channel biosensor with upstream electrodes to determine the extent of interferences in the sample is described. A pair of upstream electrodes poised at a suitable potential allows both the calculation of the extent of removal of interfering agents and the effect of interfering agents at the detector electrode. A model was developed and tested that predicts the concentrations of all species throughout the channel and, hence, the current at each electrode due to each species. This enables correction of the detector electrode current and a more accurate determination of the analyte concentration. The concept was applied to a biosensor for the determination of glucose in the presence of ascorbic acid, acetamidophenol, and uric acid, as well as glucose in wine samples containing polyphenolic interfering agents.

Intrathecal substance P augments morphine-induced antinociception: possible relevance in the production of substance P N-terminal fragments.

PubMed

Komatsu, Takaaki; Sasaki, Mika; Sanai, Kengo; Kuwahata, Hikari; Sakurada, Chikai; Tsuzuki, Minoru; Iwata, Yohko; Sakurada, Shinobu; Sakurada, Tsukasa

2009-09-01

The present study sought to examine the mechanism of substance P to modulate the antinociceptive action of intrathecal (i.t.) morphine in paw-licking/biting response evoked by subcutaneous injection of capsaicin into the plantar surface of the hindpaw in mice. The i.t. injection of morphine inhibited capsaicin-induced licking/biting response in a dose-dependent manner. Substance P (25 and 50 pmol) injected i.t. alone did not alter capsaicin-induced nociception, whereas substance P at a higher dose of 100 pmol significantly reduced the capsaicin response. Western blots showed the constitutive expression of endopeptidase-24.11 in the dorsal and ventral parts of lumbar spinal cord of mice. The N-terminal fragment of substance P (1-7), which is known as a major product of substance P by endopeptidase-24.11, was more effective than substance P on capsaicin-induced nociception. Combination treatment with substance P (50 pmol) and morphine at a subthreshold dose enhanced the antinociceptive effect of morphine. The enhanced effect of the combination of substance P with morphine was reduced significantly by co-administration of phosphoramidon, an inhibitor of endopeptidase-24.11. Administration of D-isomer of substance P (1-7), [D-Pro(2), D-Phe(7)]substance P (1-7), an inhibitor of [(3)H] substance P (1-7) binding, or antisera against substance P (1-7) reversed the enhanced antinociceptive effect by co-administration of substance P and morphine. Taken together these data suggest that morphine-induced antinociception may be enhanced through substance P (1-7) formed by the enzymatic degradation of i.t. injected substance P in the spinal cord.

Method of removing and detoxifying a phosphorus-based substance

DOEpatents

Vandegrift, G.F.; Steindler, M.J.

1985-05-21

A method of removing a phosphorus-based poisonous substance from water contaminated is presented. In addition, the toxicity of the phosphorus-based substance is also subsequently destroyed. A water-immiscible organic solvent is first immobilized on a supported liquid membrane before the contaminated water is contacted with one side of the supported liquid membrane to absorb the phosphorus-based substance in the organic solvent. The other side of the supported liquid membrane is contacted with a hydroxy-affording strong base to react with phosphorus-based solvated species to form a non-toxic product.

[Doping: health risks and relation to addictive behaviors].

PubMed

Siri, Françoise; Roques, Bernard P

2003-11-01

The paper presents the health hazards of the major doping substances and raises some questions about the relationship between doping and addictive behavior. Current definitions of doping and addictive behavior are examined. The paper's goal is: 1- to assess the risks of neurotoxicity and overall toxicity of doping substances: stimulants, narcotics (seldom used as doping substances), and hormones, and assess their addictive potential; 2- to present available data on drug-dependent patients with a record of early prolonged and intensive physical activity or athletic practice. Some doping substances present high risks for health at large doses, but usually low addictive potential and neurotoxicity. Dependency on doping substances and drift towards dependency to addictive drugs, if any, are therefore determined by genetic and environmental factors. A significant susceptibility to drug dependence has been observed in some cases of very intensive and competitive practice. Over-representation of intensive and competitive athletic antecedents among some drug-dependent patients could be accounted for in either of two ways. On the first account, the causal factor is a sensation-seeking character trait, with a likely genetic component, which predisposes the individual to the use of drugs or doping substances, as the opportunities arise. On the second account, the sudden interruption of intensive practice, and of the associated organic stress and hypersensitization of the hedonic pathway, creates a weaning syndrome and leads to the search for relief through drugs. Further exploration of this hypothesis is called for.

Study the properties of activated carbon and oxyhydroxide aluminum as sorbents for removal humic substances from natural waters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shiyan, L. N.; Machekhina, K. I.; Gryaznova, E. N.

2016-02-01

The present work relates to the problem of high-quality drinking water supply using processes of adsorption on activated carbon and aluminum oxyhydroxide for removal humic- type organic substances. Also the paper reports on sorbtion properties of the activeted carbon Norit SA UF and oxyhydroxide aluminum for removal humic substances. It was found out that the maximum adsorption capacity of activated carbon to organic substances is equal to 0.25 mg/mg and aluminum oxyhydroxide is equal to 0.3 mg/mg. It is shown that the maximum adsorption capacity of activated carbon Norit SA UF to iron (III) ions is equal to 0.0045 mg/mg and to silicon ions is equal to 0.024 mg/mg. Consequently, the aluminum oxyhydroxide has better adsorption characteristics in comparison with the activated carbon for removal of humic substances, iron and silicon ions. It is associated with the fact that activated carbon has a large adsorption surface, and this is due to its porous structure, but not all molecules can enter into these pores. Therefore, the fibrous structure of aluminum oxyhydroxide promotes better sorption capacity. The presented results suggest that activated carbon Norit SA UF and aluminum oxyhydroxide can be used as sorbents for removal humic substances or other organic substances from groundwater and natural waters.

A chemical-biological similarity-based grouping of complex substances as a prototype approach for evaluating chemical alternatives.

PubMed

Grimm, Fabian A; Iwata, Yasuhiro; Sirenko, Oksana; Chappell, Grace A; Wright, Fred A; Reif, David M; Braisted, John; Gerhold, David L; Yeakley, Joanne M; Shepard, Peter; Seligmann, Bruce; Roy, Tim; Boogaard, Peter J; Ketelslegers, Hans B; Rohde, Arlean M; Rusyn, Ivan

2016-08-21

Comparative assessment of potential human health impacts is a critical step in evaluating both chemical alternatives and existing products on the market. Most alternatives assessments are conducted on a chemical-by-chemical basis and it is seldom acknowledged that humans are exposed to complex products, not individual substances. Indeed, substances of U nknown or V ariable composition, C omplex reaction products, and B iological materials (UVCBs) are ubiquitous in commerce yet they present a major challenge for registration and health assessments. Here, we present a comprehensive experimental and computational approach to categorize UVCBs according to global similarities in their bioactivity using a suite of in vitro models. We used petroleum substances, an important group of UVCBs which are grouped for regulatory approval and read-across primarily on physico-chemical properties and the manufacturing process, and only partially based on toxicity data, as a case study. We exposed induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes and hepatocytes to DMSO-soluble extracts of 21 petroleum substances from five product groups. Concentration-response data from high-content imaging in cardiomyocytes and hepatocytes, as well as targeted high-throughput transcriptomic analysis of the hepatocytes, revealed distinct groups of petroleum substances. Data integration showed that bioactivity profiling affords clustering of petroleum substances in a manner similar to the manufacturing process-based categories. Moreover, we observed a high degree of correlation between bioactivity profiles and physico-chemical properties, as well as improved groupings when chemical and biological data were combined. Altogether, we demonstrate how novel in vitro screening approaches can be effectively utilized in combination with physico-chemical characteristics to group complex substances and enable read-across. This approach allows for rapid and scientifically-informed evaluation of health impacts of both existing substances and their chemical alternatives.

Genetic and environmental risk factors in adolescent substance use.

PubMed

Silberg, Judy; Rutter, Michael; D'Onofrio, Brian; Eaves, Lindon

2003-07-01

The present study was undertaken with the goal of understanding the causes of association between substance use and both conduct disturbance (CD) and depression in adolescent boys and girls. Multivariate genetic structural equation models were fitted to multi-informant, multi-wave, longitudinal data collected in extensive home interviews with parents and children with respect to 307 MZ male, 392 MZ female, 185 DZ male, and 187 DZ female, same-sex twin pairs aged 12-17 years from the Virginia Twin Study of Adolescent Behavioral Development (VTSABD). Although conduct disturbance and depression were moderately associated with substance use, the pattern of genetic and environmental risk differed for males and females and across the two disorders. Genetic factors were predominant in girls' substance use whereas boys' use was mediated primarily by shared environmental factors reflecting family dysfunction and deviant peers. The patterns of correlations across the two waves of the study were consistent with conduct disturbance leading to substance use in both males and females, but depression leading to smoking, drug use and, to a lesser extent, alcohol use in girls. The comorbidity between substance use and depression, and between substance use and conduct disturbance in childhood/adolescence, probably reflects rather different mediating mechanisms--as well as a different time frame, with conduct disturbance preceding substance use but depression following it. In both, the co-occurrence partially reflected a shared liability but, in girls, genetic influences played an important role in the comorbidity involving depression, whereas in both sexes (but especially in boys) environmental factors played a substantial role. The extent to which these differences reflect genuine differences in the causal mechanisms underlying substance use and CD/depression in boys and girls revealed in the present analysis awaits replication from studies of other general population samples.

Social service offices as a point of entry into substance abuse treatment for poor South Africans

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Background In South Africa, district social service offices are often the first point of entry into the substance abuse treatment system. Despite this, little is known about the profile of people presenting with substance-related problems at these service points. This has a negative impact on treatment service planning. This paper begins to redress this gap through describing patterns of substance use and service needs among people using general social services in the Western Cape and comparing findings against the profile of persons attending specialist substance abuse treatment facilities in the region. Methods As part of a standard client information system, an electronic questionnaire was completed for each person seeking social assistance. Data on socio-demographic characteristics, the range of presenting problems, patterns of substance use, perceived consequences of substance use, as well as types of services provided were analysed for the 691 social welfare clients who reported substance use between 2007 and 2009. These data were compared against clients attending substance abuse treatment centres during the same time period. Results Findings indicate that social services offices are used as a way of accessing specialist services but are also used as a service point, especially by groups under-represented in the specialist treatment sector. Women, people from rural communities and people with alcohol-related problems are more likely to seek assistance at social service offices providing low threshold intervention services than from the specialist treatment sector. Conclusions The study provides evidence that social services are a point of entry and intervention for people from underserved communities in the Western Cape. If these low-threshold services can be supported to provide good quality services, they may be an effective and efficient way of improving access to treatment in a context of limited service availability. PMID:22642796

Effect of supplemented and topically applied antioxidant substances on human tissue.

PubMed

Darvin, M; Zastrow, L; Sterry, W; Lademann, J

2006-01-01

Systemic and topical application of antioxidant substances for the medical treatment and prophylaxis of many diseases as well as additional protection of the skin against the destructive action of free radicals and other reactive species has become very popular during the past years. Stimulated by the positive results of a fruit and vegetable diet in supporting medical treatment and in cosmetics, artificial and extracted antioxidant substances have been broadly applied. Surprisingly, not only positive but also strong negative results have been obtained by different authors. According to study reports artificial and extracted antioxidant substances support different kinds of medical therapies, if they are applied in mixtures of different compounds at low concentration levels. In the case of the application of high concentration of some single compounds, side effects were often observed. Regarding skin treatment by systemically applied antioxidant substances for cosmetic purposes, positive cosmetic effects as well as no effects, but almost no side effects, apart from a number of allergic reactions, were reported. One reason for this seems to be the lower concentration of systemically applied antioxidant substances in comparison with a medical application. Topical application of antioxidant substances is closely related to cosmetic treatment for skin protection and anti-aging. Positive results were also obtained in this case. The present review is an attempt to classify and summarize the published literature concerning the efficiency of action of systemic and topical applications of antioxidant substances, such as carotenoids and vitamins, on human organism and especially on the skin. The available literature on this topic is very extensive and the results are often contradictory. Nevertheless, there are some clear tendencies concerning systemic and topical application of antioxidant substances in medicine and cosmetics, and we summarize them in the present paper.

Risk Factors for Substance Misuse and Adolescents’ Symptoms of Depression

PubMed Central

Siennick, Sonja E.; Widdowson, Alex O.; Woessner, Mathew K.; Feinberg, Mark E.; Spoth, Richard L.

2016-01-01

Purpose Depressive symptoms during adolescence are positively associated with peer-related beliefs, perceptions, and experiences that are known risk factors for substance misuse. These same risk factors are targeted by many universal substance misuse prevention programs. This study examined whether a multicomponent universal substance misuse intervention for middle schoolers reduced the associations between depressive symptoms, these risk factors, and substance misuse. Methods The study used data from a place-randomized trial of the PROSPER (PROmoting School-Community-University Partnerships to Enhance Resilience) model for delivery of evidence-based substance misuse programs for middle schoolers. Three-level within-person regression models were applied to four waves of survey and social network data from 636 adolescents followed from 6th through 9th grades. Results When adolescents in control school districts had more symptoms of depression, they believed more strongly that substance use had social benefits, perceived higher levels of substance misuse among their peers and friends, and had more friends who misused substances, although they were not more likely to use substances themselves. Many of the positive associations of depressive symptoms with peer-related risk factors were significantly weaker or not present among adolescents in intervention school districts. Conclusions The PROSPER interventions reduced the positive associations of adolescent symptoms of depression with peer-related risk factors for substance misuse. PMID:27751712

Substance-Treatment Professionals' Perceived Barriers to Incorporating Mindfulness Into Treatment.

PubMed

Edwards, Emily Rachel; Cohen, Mia Gintoft; Wupperman, Peggilee

2016-12-05

Despite scientific favor, psychological interventions supported by research are often underutilized by practitioners due to perceived obstacles in implementation. Increased transparency between researchers and practitioners throughout treatment development and dissemination is therefore necessary. The rising popularity of mindfulness-based approaches in the treatment of substance-use disorders suggests such transparency is necessary in further developing, disseminating, and implementing such approaches within the context of substance treatment. The present study aimed to increase transparency by surveying substance-treatment professionals regarding their perceptions of barriers to adopting mindfulness in the treatment of substance use. Substance-treatment professionals throughout the United States (N = 103) completed an online survey about their perceptions of potential barriers to implementing mindfulness into substance treatment. Overall, professionals were moderately familiar with mindfulness as a treatment for substance use. Approximately one-third reported providing mindfulness in substance treatment; however, only 7% reported providing mindfulness using a research-supported treatment manual. Across professionals of various backgrounds, the need for further training was rated as the greatest barrier to implementation. Results suggest that practitioners are generally familiar with and willing to implement mindfulness in the treatment of substance use. Future research and implementation efforts should focus on methods of increasing training availability, accessibility, and relevance to address the needs and expectations of substance-treatment professionals.

Removing interfering clutter associated with radar pulses that an airborne radar receives from a radar transponder

DOEpatents

Ormesher, Richard C.; Axline, Robert M.

2008-12-02

Interfering clutter in radar pulses received by an airborne radar system from a radar transponder can be suppressed by developing a representation of the incoming echo-voltage time-series that permits the clutter associated with predetermined parts of the time-series to be estimated. These estimates can be used to estimate and suppress the clutter associated with other parts of the time-series.

Small heterodimer partner blocks cardiac hypertrophy by interfering with GATA6 signaling.

PubMed

Nam, Yoon Seok; Kim, Yoojung; Joung, Hosouk; Kwon, Duk-Hwa; Choe, Nakwon; Min, Hyun-Ki; Kim, Yong Sook; Kim, Hyung-Seok; Kim, Don-Kyu; Cho, Young Kuk; Kim, Yong-Hoon; Nam, Kwang-Il; Choi, Hyoung Chul; Park, Dong Ho; Suk, Kyoungho; Lee, In-Kyu; Ahn, Youngkeun; Lee, Chul-Ho; Choi, Hueng-Sik; Eom, Gwang Hyeon; Kook, Hyun

2014-08-15

Small heterodimer partner (SHP; NR0B2) is an atypical orphan nuclear receptor that lacks a conventional DNA-binding domain. Through interactions with other transcription factors, SHP regulates diverse biological events, including glucose metabolism in liver. However, the role of SHP in adult heart diseases has not yet been demonstrated. We aimed to investigate the role of SHP in adult heart in association with cardiac hypertrophy. The roles of SHP in cardiac hypertrophy were tested in primary cultured cardiomyocytes and in animal models. SHP-null mice showed a hypertrophic phenotype. Hypertrophic stresses repressed the expression of SHP, whereas forced expression of SHP blocked the development of hypertrophy in cardiomyocytes. SHP reduced the protein amount of Gata6 and, by direct physical interaction with Gata6, interfered with the binding of Gata6 to GATA-binding elements in the promoter regions of natriuretic peptide precursor type A. Metformin, an antidiabetic agent, induced SHP and suppressed cardiac hypertrophy. The metformin-induced antihypertrophic effect was attenuated either by SHP small interfering RNA in cardiomyocytes or in SHP-null mice. These results establish SHP as a novel antihypertrophic regulator that acts by interfering with GATA6 signaling. SHP may participate in the metformin-induced antihypertrophic response. © 2014 American Heart Association, Inc.

Distributed Patterns of Brain Activity that Lead to Forgetting

PubMed Central

Öztekin, Ilke; Badre, David

2011-01-01

Proactive interference (PI), in which irrelevant information from prior learning disrupts memory performance, is widely viewed as a major cause of forgetting. However, the hypothesized spontaneous recovery (i.e., automatic retrieval) of interfering information presumed to be at the base of PI remains to be demonstrated directly. Moreover, it remains unclear at what point during learning and/or retrieval interference impacts memory performance. In order to resolve these open questions, we employed a machine-learning algorithm to identify distributed patterns of brain activity associated with retrieval of interfering information that engenders PI and causes forgetting. Participants were scanned using functional magnetic resonance imaging during an item recognition task. We induced PI by constructing sets of three consecutive study lists from the same semantic category. The classifier quantified the magnitude of category-related activity at encoding and retrieval. Category-specific activity during retrieval increased across lists, consistent with the category information becoming increasingly available and producing interference. Critically, this increase was correlated with individual differences in forgetting and the deployment of frontal lobe mechanisms that resolve interference. Collectively, these findings suggest that distributed patterns of brain activity pertaining to the interfering information during retrieval contribute to forgetting. The prefrontal cortex mediates the relationship between the spontaneous recovery of interfering information at retrieval and individual differences in memory performance. PMID:21897814

More than 40% of those not taking antiseizure medication with recent seizures reported that epilepsy or its treatment interfered with their recent activities, 2010 and 2013 US National Health Interview Surveys.

PubMed

Kobau, Rosemarie; Cui, Wanjun; Zack, Matthew M

2016-09-01

From the combined 2010 and 2013 National Health Interview Surveys, we estimated US national age-standardized prevalence of adults with active epilepsy who reported that a nervous system/sensory organ condition caused a limitation (e.g., walking; memory; or physical, mental, or emotional problems) and, separately, that epilepsy interfered with their activities (e.g., working, schooling, or socializing) during the 30days preceding the survey. Sixty-one percent of adults who took antiseizure medication and had recent seizures and 51% of those who took medication and had no seizures reported having limitations caused by a nervous system/sensory organ condition. Sixty-two percent of adults who took antiseizure medication and had recent seizures and 20% of those who took medication and had no seizures reported that epilepsy or its treatment interfered with their recent activities. Forty-one percent of those who did not take medication and had recent seizures also reported that epilepsy interfered with their activities. To reduce activity limitations in people with epilepsy, health and social service providers can ensure that adequate policies and practices that promote access to high quality care and social participation are in effect in organizations and communities. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Optical interference probe of biofilm hydrology: label-free characterization of the dynamic hydration behavior of native biofilms

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McDonough, Richard T.; Zheng, Hewen; Alila, Mercy A.; Goodisman, Jerry; Chaiken, Joseph

2017-03-01

Biofilm produced by Escherichia coli (E. coli) or Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) on quartz or polystyrene is removed from the culture medium and drained. Observed optical interference fringes indicate the presence of a layer of uniform thickness with refractive index different from air-dried biofilm. Fringe wavelengths indicate that layer optical thickness is <20 μm or 1 to 2 orders of magnitude thinner than the biofilm as measured by confocal Raman microscopy or fluorescence imaging of the bacteria. Raman shows that films have an alginate-like carbohydrate composition. Fringe amplitudes indicate that the refractive index of the interfering layer is higher than dry alginate. Drying and rehydration nondestructively thins and restores the interfering layer. The strength of the 1451-nm near infrared water absorption varies in unison with thickness. Absorption and layer thickness are proportional for films with different bacteria, substrates, and growth conditions. Formation of the interfering layer is general, possibly depending more on the chemical nature of alginate-like materials than bacterial processes. Films grown during the exponential growth phase produce no observable interference fringes, indicating requirements for layer formation are not met, possibly reflecting bacterial activities at that stage. The interfering layer might provide a protective environment for bacteria when water is scarce.

A database analysis method identifies an endogenous trans-acting short-interfering RNA that targets the Arabidopsis ARF2, ARF3, and ARF4 genes

PubMed Central

Williams, Leor; Carles, Cristel C.; Osmont, Karen S.; Fletcher, Jennifer C.

2005-01-01

Two classes of small RNAs, microRNAs and short-interfering RNA (siRNAs), have been extensively studied in plants and animals. In Arabidopsis, the capacity to uncover previously uncharacterized small RNAs by means of conventional strategies seems to be reaching its limits. To discover new plant small RNAs, we developed a protocol to mine an Arabidopsis nonannotated, noncoding EST database. Using this approach, we identified an endogenous small RNA, trans-acting short-interfering RNA–auxin response factor (tasiR-ARF), that shares a 21- and 22-nt region of sequence similarity with members of the ARF gene family. tasiR-ARF has characteristics of both short-interfering RNA and microRNA, recently defined as tasiRNA. Accumulation of trans-acting siRNA depends on DICER-LIKE1 and RNA-DEPENDENT RNA POLYMERASE6 but not RNA-DEPENDENT RNA POLYMERASE2. We demonstrate that tasiR-ARF targets three ARF genes, ARF2, ARF3/ETT, and ARF4, and that both the tasiR-ARF precursor and its target genes are evolutionarily conserved. The identification of tasiRNA-ARF as a low-abundance, previously uncharacterized small RNA species proves our method to be a useful tool to uncover additional small regulatory RNAs. PMID:15980147

Optical method for the screening of doping substances

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lademann, J.; Shevtsova, J.; Patzelt, A.; Richter, H.; Gladkowa, N. D.; Gelikonov, V. M.; Gonchukov, S. A.; Sterry, W.; Blume-Peytavi, U.

2008-12-01

During the last years, an increased misuse of doping substances in sport has been observed. The action of doping substances characterized by the stimulation of blood flow and metabolic processes is also reflected in the hair structure. In the present study it was demonstrated that optical coherent tomography is well suited for the analysis of hair parameters influenced by doping. Analyzing 20 patients, systemically treated with steroids which also represent doping substances, it was found that in all cases a significant increase in the cross-section of the hairs could be detected. The results obtained in the study are not only important for the screening of doping substances but also for medical diagnostics and control of compliance of patients.

Exercise in the Treatment of Youth Substance Use Disorders: Review and Recommendations

PubMed Central

More, Alissa; Jackson, Ben; Dimmock, James A.; Thornton, Ashleigh L.; Colthart, Allan; Furzer, Bonnie J.

2017-01-01

Substance use disorders among youth represent a significant public health concern. It is well established that regular exercise provides important physical and mental health benefits; however, evidence for the role of exercise as an adjunct component within substance use disorder treatment is scarce. In this review, we identify factors associated with the development and persistence of substance use disorders among youth, identify current treatment modalities, and present evidence to support the efficacy of incorporating exercise participation during rehabilitation. We also provide a series of recommendations for future research that explores the feasibility and effectiveness of exercise participation as a complement to substance use disorder treatment among youth. PMID:29089915

Pregnant women with substance use disorders: The intersection of history, ethics, and advocacy.

PubMed

Acquavita, Shauna P; Kauffman, Sandra S; Talks, Alexandra; Sherman, Kate

2016-01-01

Pregnant women with substance use disorders face many obstacles, including obtaining evidence-based treatment and care. This article (1) briefly reviews the history of pregnant women in clinical trials and substance use disorders treatment research; (2) identifies current ethical issues facing researchers studying pregnant women with substance use disorders; (3) presents and describes an ethical framework to utilize; and (4) identifies future directions needed to develop appropriate research and treatment policies and practices. Current research is not providing enough information to clinicians, policy-makers, and the public about maternal and child health and substance use disorders, and the data will not be sufficient to offer maximum benefit until protocols are changed.

An efficient reliable method to estimate the vaporization enthalpy of pure substances according to the normal boiling temperature and critical properties

PubMed Central

Mehmandoust, Babak; Sanjari, Ehsan; Vatani, Mostafa

2013-01-01

The heat of vaporization of a pure substance at its normal boiling temperature is a very important property in many chemical processes. In this work, a new empirical method was developed to predict vaporization enthalpy of pure substances. This equation is a function of normal boiling temperature, critical temperature, and critical pressure. The presented model is simple to use and provides an improvement over the existing equations for 452 pure substances in wide boiling range. The results showed that the proposed correlation is more accurate than the literature methods for pure substances in a wide boiling range (20.3–722 K). PMID:25685493

An efficient reliable method to estimate the vaporization enthalpy of pure substances according to the normal boiling temperature and critical properties.

PubMed

Mehmandoust, Babak; Sanjari, Ehsan; Vatani, Mostafa

2014-03-01

The heat of vaporization of a pure substance at its normal boiling temperature is a very important property in many chemical processes. In this work, a new empirical method was developed to predict vaporization enthalpy of pure substances. This equation is a function of normal boiling temperature, critical temperature, and critical pressure. The presented model is simple to use and provides an improvement over the existing equations for 452 pure substances in wide boiling range. The results showed that the proposed correlation is more accurate than the literature methods for pure substances in a wide boiling range (20.3-722 K).

A Six-Wave Study of the Consistency of Mexican/Mexican American Preadolescents' Lifetime Substance Use Reports

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wagstaff, David A.; Kulis, Stephen; Elek, Elvira

2009-01-01

In the Fall of 2004, 1,948 5th grade students from Phoenix, AZ enrolled in an evaluation of a school-based, substance use prevention intervention. To assess the consistency of Mexican and Mexican-American students' self-reports of lifetime substance use, the present study analyzed data reported by 1,418 students who reported Mexican ancestry and…

The Association between Foster Care and Substance Abuse Risk Factors and Treatment Outcomes: An Exploratory Secondary Analysis

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Blome, Wendy Whiting; Shields, Joseph; Verdieck, Mary Jeanne

2009-01-01

The child welfare and substance abuse systems are integrally linked through the children and families they both serve. There is a dearth of knowledge, however, on how children who have experienced foster care fare when they are treated for substance abuse issues as adults. This article presents an exploratory study using the Alcohol and Drug…

The Formative Years: Pathways to Substance Abuse among Girls and Young Women Ages 8-22.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Columbia Univ., New York, NY. National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse.

This report presents a comprehensive analysis of the reasons why girls and young women smoke, drink and use drugs, and what increases or lowers their risk of substance abuse. It demonstrates that certain key risk factors for substance abuse are unique to girls and young women and pose a greater threat to them than to boys and young men. This…

Feasibility and Impact of Implementing Motivational Enhancement Therapy--Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as a Substance Use Treatment Intervention in School-Based Settings

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Belur, Vinetha; Dennis, Michael L.; Ives, Melissa L.; Vincent, Robert; Muck, Randolph

2014-01-01

The expansion of behavioral health services to school-based health centers under the Affordable Care Act (Public Law 111-148) presents an opportunity to improve access to substance use disorders treatment for youth and reduce their substance use, and emotional, health, and school problems. We explore the feasibility of implementing five to seven…

The Relationship between Post-Traumatic Stress Symptoms and Substance Use among Adolescents Involved with Child Welfare: Implications for Emerging Adulthood

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Goldstein, Abby L.; Wekerle, Christine; Tonmyr, Lil; Thornton, Tiffany; Waechter, Randall; Pereira, Jessica; Chung, Ronald

2011-01-01

The purpose of the present study was to examine the role of posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) in predicting substance use and substance-related problems in a sample of older youth and emerging adults involved with child welfare. The sample was drawn from the Maltreatment and Adolescent Pathways (MAP) longitudinal study (Wekerle et al. 2009).…

Mutation assays involving blood cells that metabolize toxic substances

DOEpatents

Crespi, Charles L.; Thilly, William G.

1999-01-01

The present invention pertains to a line of human blood cells which have high levels of oxidative activity (such as oxygenase, oxidase, peroxidase, and hydroxylase activity). Such cells grow in suspension culture, and are useful to determine the mutagenicity of xenobiotic substances that are metabolized into toxic or mutagenic substances. The invention also includes mutation assays using these cells, and other cells with similar characteristics.

RNA interfering molecule delivery from in situ forming biodegradable hydrogels for enhancement of bone formation in rat calvarial bone defects.

PubMed

Nguyen, Minh K; Jeon, Oju; Dang, Phuong N; Huynh, Cong T; Varghai, Davood; Riazi, Hooman; McMillan, Alexandra; Herberg, Samuel; Alsberg, Eben

2018-06-06

RNA interference (RNAi) may be an effective and valuable tool for promoting the growth of functional tissue, as short interfering RNA (siRNA) and microRNA (miRNA) can block the expression of genes that have negative effects on tissue regeneration. Our group has recently reported that the localized and sustained presentation of siRNA against noggin (siNoggin) and miRNA-20a from in situ forming poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) hydrogels enhanced osteogenic differentiation of encapsulated human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs). Here, the capacity of the hydrogel system to accelerate bone formation in a rat calvarial bone defect model is presented. After 12 weeks post-implantation, the hydrogels containing encapsulated hMSCs and miRNA-20a resulted in more bone formation in the defects than the hydrogels containing hMSCs without siRNA or with negative control siRNA. This localized and sustained RNA interfering molecule delivery system may provide an excellent platform for healing bony defects and other tissues. Delivery of RNAi molecules may be a valuable strategy to guide cell behavior for tissue engineering applications, but to date there have been no reports of a biomaterial system capable of both encapsulation of cells and controlled delivery of incorporated RNA. Here, we present PEG hydrogels that form in situ via Michael type reaction, and that permit encapsulation of hMSCs and the concomitant controlled delivery of siNoggin and/or miRNA-20a. These RNAs were chosen to suppress noggin, a BMP-2 antagonist, and/or PPAR-γ, a negative regulator of BMP-2-mediated osteogenesis, and therefore promote osteogenic differentiation of hMSCs and subsequent bone repair in critical-sized rat calvarial defects. Simultaneous delivery of hMSCs and miRNA-20a enhanced repair of these defects compared to hydrogels containing hMSCs without siRNA or with negative control siRNA. This in situ forming PEG hydrogel system offers an exciting platform for healing critical-sized bone defects by localized, controlled delivery of RNAi molecules to encapsulated hMSCs and surrounding cells. Copyright © 2018 Acta Materialia Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

78 FR 69130 - Importer of Controlled Substances; Notice of Application; Cerilliant Corporation

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-11-18

... substances for manufacture and distribution to their research and forensic customers conducting drug testing and analysis. Any bulk manufacturer who is presently, or is applying to be, registered with DEA to...

Subthreshold Substance Use and the Treatment of Resistant Depression in Adolescents

PubMed Central

Goldstein, Benjamin I.; Shamseddeen, Wael; Spirito, Anthony; Emslie, Graham; Clarke, Greg; Wagner, Karen Dineen; Asarnow, Joan Rosenbaum; Vitiello, Benedetto; Ryan, Neal; Birmaher, Boris; Mayes, Taryn; Onorato, Matthew; Zelazny, Jamies; Brent, David A.

2009-01-01

Objective Despite the known association between substance use disorders (SUD) and major depressive disorder (MDD) among adolescents, little is known regarding substance use among adolescents with MDD. Method Youth with MDD who had not improved after an adequate SSRI trial (N = 334) were enrolled in the Treatment of SSRI-Resistant Depression in Adolescents (TORDIA) trial. Analyses examined substance use (via the Drug Use Severity Index) and changes therein in relation to treatment and depressive symptoms. Adolescents meeting SUD criteria via the Schedule for Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia for School-Age Children-Present and Lifetime version at baseline were excluded. Results Substance use was common: 28.1% reported repeated experimentation at baseline. Substance-related impairment was associated with baseline depression severity, older age, physical/sexual abuse, family conflict, hopelessness, and comorbid oppositional defiant disorder/conduct disorder. There was significant improvement in substance-related impairment among adolescents who responded to MDD treatment. Baseline suicidal ideation was higher among subjects who progressed to high substance-related impairment (≥75th percentile) versus those whose substance-related impairment remained low (<75th percentile), and parental depressive symptoms predicted persistence of high substance-related impairment during the study. MDD response was best among adolescents with low 12-week substance-related impairment scores regardless of whether they had high or low baseline substance-related impairment. There were no significant differential effects of specific treatments, pharmacological or CBT, on substance use. Conclusions Substance use is common among adolescents with treatment-resistant MDD. Subjects who had persistently low substance-related impairment or who demonstrated reduced substance-related impairment had better MDD treatment response, although the direction of this association is uncertain. PMID:19858762

Personality and substance use: psychometric evaluation and validation of the Substance Use Risk Profile Scale (SURPS) in English, Irish, French, and German adolescents.

PubMed

Jurk, Sarah; Kuitunen-Paul, Sören; Kroemer, Nils B; Artiges, Eric; Banaschewski, Tobias; Bokde, Arun L W; Büchel, Christian; Conrod, Patricia; Fauth-Bühler, Mira; Flor, Herta; Frouin, Vincent; Gallinat, Jürgen; Garavan, Hugh; Heinz, Andreas; Mann, Karl F; Nees, Frauke; Paus, Tomáš; Pausova, Zdenka; Poustka, Luise; Rietschel, Marcella; Schumann, Gunter; Struve, Maren; Smolka, Michael N

2015-11-01

The aim of the present longitudinal study was the psychometric evaluation of the Substance Use Risk Profile Scale (SURPS). We analyzed data from N = 2,022 adolescents aged 13 to 15 at baseline assessment and 2 years later (mean interval 2.11 years). Missing data at follow-up were imputed (N = 522). Psychometric properties of the SURPS were analyzed using confirmatory factor analysis. We examined structural as well as convergent validity with other personality measurements and drinking motives, and predictive validity for substance use at follow-up. The hypothesized 4-factorial structure (i.e., anxiety sensitivity, hopelessness, impulsivity [IMP], and sensation seeking [SS]) based on all 23 items resulted in acceptable fit to empirical data, acceptable internal consistencies, low to moderate test-retest reliability coefficients, as well as evidence for factorial and convergent validity. The proposed factor structure was stable for both males and females and, to lesser degree, across languages. However, only the SS and the IMP subscales of the SURPS predicted substance use outcomes at 16 years of age. The SURPS is unique in its specific assessment of traits related to substance use disorders as well as the resulting shortened administration time. Test-retest reliability was low to moderate and comparable to other personality scales. However, its relation to future substance use was limited to the SS and IMP subscales, which may be due to the relatively low-risk substance use pattern in the present sample. Copyright © 2015 by the Research Society on Alcoholism.

Sensory neuropeptides and the human lower airways: present state and future directions.

PubMed

Joos, G F; Germonpre, P R; Kips, J C; Peleman, R A; Pauwels, R A

1994-06-01

The sensory neuropeptides, substance P and neurokinin A, are present in human airway nerves, beneath and within the epithelium, around blood vessels and submucosal glands, and within the bronchial smooth muscle layer. Studies on autopsy tissue, bronchoalveolar lavage and sputum suggest that in asthma the substance P content of the airways may be increased. Neurokinin A is a more potent bronchoconstrictor than substance P. Asthmatics are hyperresponsive to neurokinin A and substance P. The neuropeptide degrading enzyme, neutral endopeptidase is present in the airways and is involved in the degradation of endogenously released and exogenously administered substance P and neurokinin A, both in normal and asthmatic subjects. As for other indirect bronchoconstrictor stimuli, the effect of neurokinin A on airway calibre in asthmatics can be inhibited by pretreatment with nedocromil sodium. Evidence is accumulating, not only from studies in animals but also from experiments on human airways, that tachykinins may also cause mucus secretion and plasma extravasation. They also have important proinflammatory effects, such as the chemoattraction of eosinophils and neutrophils, the adhesion of neutrophils, and the stimulation of lymphocytes, macrophages and mast cells. The tachykinins interact with the targets on the airways by specific tachykinin receptors. The NK1 and the NK2 receptor have been characterized in human airways, both pharmacologically and by cloning. The NK2 receptor is responsible for the in vitro contraction of normal airways, whilst the NK1 receptor is responsible for most of the other airway effects. Because of their presence in the airways and because of their ability to mimic the various pathophysiological features of asthma, substance P and neurokinin A are presently considered as possible mediators of asthma. The present development of potent and selective tachykinin antagonists will allow us to further define the role of tachykinins in the pathogenesis of asthma.

Evaluation of Yoga for Preventing Adolescent Substance Use Risk Factors in a Middle School Setting: A Preliminary Group-Randomized Controlled Trial

PubMed Central

LoRusso, Amanda; Shin, Sunny H.; Khalsa, Sat Bir S.

2016-01-01

Adolescence is a key developmental period for preventing substance use initiation, however prevention programs solely providing educational information about the dangers of substance use rarely change adolescent substance use behaviors. Recent research suggests that mind–body practices such as yoga may have beneficial effects on several substance use risk factors, and that these practices may serve as promising interventions for preventing adolescent substance use. The primary aim of the present study was to test the efficacy of yoga for reducing substance use risk factors during early adolescence. Seventh-grade students in a public school were randomly assigned by classroom to receive either a 32-session yoga intervention (n = 117) in place of their regular physical education classes or to continue with physical-education-as-usual (n = 94). Participants (63.2 % female; 53.6 % White) completed pre- and post-intervention questionnaires assessing emotional self-regulation, perceived stress, mood impairment, impulsivity, substance use willingness, and actual substance use. Participants also completed questionnaires at 6-months and 1-year post-intervention. Results revealed that participants in the control condition were significantly more willing to try smoking cigarettes immediately post-intervention than participants in the yoga condition. Immediate pre- to post-intervention differences did not emerge for the remaining outcomes. However, long-term follow-up analyses revealed a pattern of delayed effects in which females in the yoga condition, and males in the control condition, demonstrated improvements in emotional self-control. The findings suggest that school-based yoga may have beneficial effects with regard to preventing males' and females' willingness to smoke cigarettes, as well as improving emotional self-control in females. However additional research is required, particularly with regard to the potential long-term effects of mind–body interventions in school settings. The present study contributes to the literature on adolescence by examining school-based yoga as a novel prevention program for substance use risk factors. PMID:27246653

Evaluation of Yoga for Preventing Adolescent Substance Use Risk Factors in a Middle School Setting: A Preliminary Group-Randomized Controlled Trial.

PubMed

Butzer, Bethany; LoRusso, Amanda; Shin, Sunny H; Khalsa, Sat Bir S

2017-03-01

Adolescence is a key developmental period for preventing substance use initiation, however prevention programs solely providing educational information about the dangers of substance use rarely change adolescent substance use behaviors. Recent research suggests that mind-body practices such as yoga may have beneficial effects on several substance use risk factors, and that these practices may serve as promising interventions for preventing adolescent substance use. The primary aim of the present study was to test the efficacy of yoga for reducing substance use risk factors during early adolescence. Seventh-grade students in a public school were randomly assigned by classroom to receive either a 32-session yoga intervention (n = 117) in place of their regular physical education classes or to continue with physical-education-as-usual (n = 94). Participants (63.2 % female; 53.6 % White) completed pre- and post-intervention questionnaires assessing emotional self-regulation, perceived stress, mood impairment, impulsivity, substance use willingness, and actual substance use. Participants also completed questionnaires at 6-months and 1-year post-intervention. Results revealed that participants in the control condition were significantly more willing to try smoking cigarettes immediately post-intervention than participants in the yoga condition. Immediate pre- to post-intervention differences did not emerge for the remaining outcomes. However, long-term follow-up analyses revealed a pattern of delayed effects in which females in the yoga condition, and males in the control condition, demonstrated improvements in emotional self-control. The findings suggest that school-based yoga may have beneficial effects with regard to preventing males' and females' willingness to smoke cigarettes, as well as improving emotional self-control in females. However additional research is required, particularly with regard to the potential long-term effects of mind-body interventions in school settings. The present study contributes to the literature on adolescence by examining school-based yoga as a novel prevention program for substance use risk factors.

Basic dental information needed for the OFM initial occlusal evaluation.

PubMed

Snow, Marjorie L

2012-11-01

It is incumbent upon the orofacial myologist to evaluate the presenting client's occlusion and detect any behaviors which may be influencing the alignment of the dentition or interfering with the treatment plan of the referral source. In order to accomplish these tasks, it is necessary to share some common terminology and to effectively communicate between all the participants involved in the treatment plan. The purpose of this article is to assist in accomplishing these goals.

Spin-wave interference in microscopic permalloy tubes

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

Balhorn, Felix; Nagrodzki, Lukas; Mendach, Stefan

2013-06-03

We present permalloy coated needles which act as spin-wave resonators. The permalloy coated needles were investigated using microwave absorption spectroscopy. Thereby, we found up to three resonant modes which correspond to constructively interfering azimuthal spin waves. The resonant modes are well reproduced in calculations based on an analytical model for the spin-wave dispersion employing periodic boundary conditions. The dependence of the resonance frequencies on the needles' radii and the external magnetic field is demonstrated experimentally.

Cardiac arrhythmias from a malpositioned Greenfield filter in a traumatic quadriplegic.

PubMed

Bach, J R; Zaneuski, R; Lee, H

1990-10-01

A case study is presented of premature Greenfield filter discharge with intracardiac migration and resulting life-threatening arrhythmias. These arrhythmias also interfered with the patient's transition from ventilatory support via orotracheal intubation to noninvasive positive airway pressure ventilatory support methods. The patient's arrhythmias were controlled by a demand cardiac pacemaker and cardiac glycoside therapy. No anticoagulants were used. She had no further filter migration nor significant complications for 16 months after hospital discharge.

Competing Distractors Facilitate Visual Search in Heterogeneous Displays.

PubMed

Kong, Garry; Alais, David; Van der Burg, Erik

2016-01-01

In the present study, we examine how observers search among complex displays. Participants were asked to search for a big red horizontal line among 119 distractor lines of various sizes, orientations and colours, leading to 36 different feature combinations. To understand how people search in such a heterogeneous display, we evolved the search display by using a genetic algorithm (Experiment 1). The best displays (i.e., displays corresponding to the fastest reaction times) were selected and combined to create new, evolved displays. Search times declined over generations. Results show that items sharing the same colour and orientation as the target disappeared over generations, implying they interfered with search, but items sharing the same colour and were 12.5° different in orientation only interfered if they were also the same size. Furthermore, and inconsistent with most dominant visual search theories, we found that non-red horizontal distractors increased over generations, indicating that these distractors facilitated visual search while participants were searching for a big red horizontally oriented target. In Experiments 2 and 3, we replicated these results using conventional, factorial experiments. Interestingly, in Experiment 4, we found that this facilitation effect was only present when the displays were very heterogeneous. While current models of visual search are able to successfully describe search in homogeneous displays, our results challenge the ability of these models to describe visual search in heterogeneous environments.

Type of featural attention differentially modulates hMT+ responses to illusory motion aftereffects.

PubMed

Castelo-Branco, Miguel; Kozak, Lajos R; Formisano, Elia; Teixeira, João; Xavier, João; Goebel, Rainer

2009-11-01

Activity in the human motion complex (hMT(+)/V5) is related to the perception of motion, be it either real surface motion or an illusion of motion such as apparent motion (AM) or motion aftereffect (MAE). It is a long-lasting debate whether illusory motion-related activations in hMT(+) represent the motion itself or attention to it. We have asked whether hMT(+) responses to MAEs are present when shifts in arousal are suppressed and attention is focused on concurrent motion versus nonmotion features. Significant enhancement of hMT(+) activity was observed during MAEs when attention was focused either on concurrent spatial angle or color features. This observation was confirmed by direct comparison of adapting (MAE inducing) versus nonadapting conditions. In contrast, this effect was diminished when subjects had to report on concomitant speed changes of superimposed AM. The same finding was observed for concomitant orthogonal real motion (RM), suggesting that selective attention to concurrent illusory or real motion was interfering with the saliency of MAE signals in hMT(+). We conclude that MAE-related changes in the global activity of hMT(+) are present provided selective attention is not focused on an interfering feature such as concurrent motion. Accordingly, there is a genuine MAE-related motion signal in hMT(+) that is neither explained by shifts in arousal nor by selective attention.

Towards Precision Addiction Treatment: New Findings in Co-morbid Substance Use and Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorders.

PubMed

Luo, Sean X; Levin, Frances R

2017-03-01

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and substance use disorders (SUDs) may have common etiologies. ADHD is more prevalent in patients with substance use disorders, and this pattern is consistent across different substances of abuse. Individuals with SUDs and ADHD exhibit significant variations in their clinical presentations. The developmental trajectory of ADHD to SUDs is complex: ADHD symptoms appear first in some patients but not in others. Many patients present with a heterogeneous collection of psychiatric and substance use co-morbidities, and these symptoms change over time. ADHD symptom severity is also highly variable, and more severe ADHD symptoms worsen co-morbid SUDs and complicate treatment. New longitudinal studies with innovative methods in high-risk populations and in community-based samples may clarify issues related to patient-treatment matching. When closely monitored, psychostimulant and other adjunct medications can be safely used to treat ADHD in this population, and such treatment may also improve outcome of SUDs. In particular, emerging evidence suggests individual-level tailoring ("precision medicine") approaches may represent a key pathway to improve clinical outcome.

Towards Precision Addiction Treatment: New Findings in Co-morbid Substance Use and Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorders

PubMed Central

Levin, Frances R.

2017-01-01

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and substance use disorders (SUDs) may have common etiologies. ADHD is more prevalent in patients with substance use disorders, and this pattern is consistent across different substances of abuse. Individuals with SUDs and ADHD exhibit significant variations in their clinical presentations. The developmental trajectory of ADHD to SUDs is complex: ADHD symptoms appear first in some patients but not in others. Many patients present with a heterogeneous collection of psychiatric and substance use co-morbidities, and these symptoms change over time. ADHD symptom severity is also highly variable, and more severe ADHD symptoms worsen co-morbid SUDs and complicate treatment. New longitudinal studies with innovative methods in high-risk populations and in community-based samples may clarify issues related to patient-treatment matching. When closely monitored, psychostimulant and other adjunct medications can be safely used to treat ADHD in this population, and such treatment may also improve outcome of SUDs. In particular, emerging evidence suggests individual-level tailoring (“precision medicine”) approaches may represent a key pathway to improve clinical outcome. PMID:28251590

Dynamique et interférence de paquets d'ondes dans les atomes et dimères d'alcalins

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bouchene, M. A.

2002-11-01

Wave packet dynamics and interference experiments in alkaline atoms and dimers This work deals with time resolved experimental study of the dynamics of atomic and molecular processes occurring on a femtosecond time scale. The first part concerns with wave packet dynamics in alkaline atoms and dimers (K, K2) studied by pump-probe methods. In the case of potassium atoms, the wave packet is a superposition of fine structure states of 4p level and represents an electronic spin wave packet. We study the temporal dynamics of this wave packet and we show that it corresponds to a spin flip. We show that the bright state-dark state formalism is appropriate to describe the dynamics in this case and we present an original method that utilises this spin flip to produce spin-polarized electrons on the femtosecond scale. In the case of molecules, the wave packet created is a superposition of vibrational states. We present the results of the study of the vibrational wave packet dynamics in states A^1Σ^+_u et 2^1Pi_g. The pump-probe signal depends on the competition between the various wave packets dynamics in the two electronic states. The second part deals with wave packets interference experiments in similar systems (K, Cs, Cs2). This technique, complementary with the first one, is based on the interaction of two identical pulses with an atomic or molecular system. This gives rise to the interference of two wave packets created by the two laser pulses. This interference allows us to control coherently the excitation probability. In the case of atoms, we present the results of experiments obtained when exciting one photon transition 4s 4p in potassium and two-photon transition 6s 7d in cesium. Two kinds of interference are identified: the optical interference regime that occurs when the two pulses overlap in time and the regime of quantum interference that occurs when the two pulses are well separated. We investigate the behaviour of these interference in many new situations (saturation regime, chirped pulse, ...) that allow us to determine the advantages and limits of this technique. In the case of molecules, the interaction of the two-pulse sequence leads to the interference of vibrational wave packets. We analyse and discuss in this case the effects of a thermal distribution of initial states on the temporal coherent control signal. Ce travail porte sur l'étude expérimentale résolue en temps de la dynamique atomique et moléculaire prenant place sur une échelle de temps femtoseconde. Il présente deux orientations distinctes et complémentaires. La première concerne l'étude de la dynamique de paquets d'ondes dans des atomes et dimères d'alcalins (K, K2) par des méthodes pompe-sonde. Dans le cas du potassium atomique le paquet d'ondes est une superposition des états de structure fine de l'état 4p et représente un paquet de spin électronique. Nous observons la dynamique de ce paquet d'ondes au cours du temps et montrons que celle-ci correspond à une inversion du sens d'orientation du spin. Le formalisme théorique des états brillants et noirs est particulièrement adapté à la description de ce type de dynamique. Nous présentons alors une méthode originale qui, tirant avantage du mouvement d'inversion du spin, permet de produire des électrons polarisés en spin à l'échelle femtoseconde. Dans le cas des molécules, le paquet d'ondes créé est une superposition d'états vibrationnels. Nous présentons les résultats d'une étude systématique de la dynamique de paquet d'ondes vibrationnel dans les états électroniques A^1Σ^+_u et 2^1Pi_g. Le signal pompe-sonde dépend alors de la compétition entre les dynamiques associées aux paquets d'ondes créés dans les deux états électroniques. La deuxième partie traite d'expériences d'interférences de paquets d'ondes dans des systèmes similaires (K, Cs, Cs2). Cette technique, complémentaire de la première, consiste à faire interagir une séquence de deux impulsions identiques avec un système atomique ou moléculaire. Cette interaction résulte de l'interférence des deux paquets d'ondes créés par les deux impulsions laser. Ces interférences permettent de réaliser le contrôle cohérent de la probabilité d'excitation. Dans le cas des atomes, nous présentons les résultats des expériences réalisés sur la transition à un photon 4s 4p du potassium et à deux photons 6s 7d du césium. Deux régimes d'interférences sont mis en évidence : le régime d'interférences optiques qui se produit quand les deux impulsions se chevauchent dans le temps et le régime d'interférences quantiques qui se produit quand les deux impulsons sont séparés dans le temps. Nous explorons le comportement de ces deux types d'interférences dans un grand nombre de situations originales (régime saturé, cas d'impulsions à dérive de fréquence, etc.) qui nous permettent de mieux comprendre les avantages et les limites de cette technique. Dans le cas des molécules, l'interaction de la séquence des deux impulsions conduit à l'interférence des paquets d'ondes vibrationnels. Nous analysons et discutons dans ce cas-là des effets d'une distribution thermique dans l'état initial sur le signal de contrôle cohérent.

Carbachol does not down-regulate substance P receptors in pancreatic acini.

PubMed

Patto, R J; Vinayek, R; Jensen, R T; Gardner, J D

1992-01-01

In a previous study, we found that first incubating guinea pig pancreatic acini with carbachol caused desensitization of the enzyme secretory response to cholecystokinin-octapeptide (CCK-8), bombesin, and carbachol but not that to substance P. This carbachol-induced desensitization could be accounted for by carbachol-induced down-regulation of receptors for CCK-8, bombesin, and carbachol. Although carbachol did not desensitize the enzyme secretory response to substance P, an effect of carbachol on substance P receptors was not examined. In the present study, in dispersed acini from guinea pig pancreas, substance P caused a twofold increase in amylase secretion. Stimulation was half-maximal at 0.7 nM and was maximal at 10 nM. Analysis of the ability of substance P to inhibit binding of 125I-substance P to substance P receptors indicated that acini possess a single class of receptors for substance P (Kd = 0.8 +/- 0.1 nM; Bmax = 1,037 +/- 145 fmol/mg of DNA). There was a close correlation between the relative potency with which substance P stimulated amylase secretion (0.7 nM) and the potency for inhibiting binding of 125I-substance P (Kd = 0.8 nM). First incubating pancreatic acini with carbachol did not alter either substance P-stimulated enzyme secretion or binding of 125I-substance P to substance P receptors, whereas in the same experiments, carbachol reduced binding of 125I-CCK-8 to cholecystokinin receptors by 50% and decreased in CCK-8-stimulated enzyme secretion by 50%.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Integrated Sensing and Processing (ISP) Phase 2: Demonstration and Evaluation for Distributed Sensor Networks and Missile Seeker Systems

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-05-29

International Conference Acoustics Speech and Signal Processing (ICASSP 2007) conference 15 − 20 April 2007 in Honolulu, Hawaii. 1. E. Near Term...from the sensor measured in feet. The detection performance of the footstep in the presence of interfering speech was characterized in previously...investigation, we developed a simple piecewise linear approximation to the probability of detection curve with no interfering speech . This approximation was

Attachment and Jealousy: Understanding the Dynamic Experience of Jealousy Using the Response Escalation Paradigm.

PubMed

Huelsnitz, Chloe O; Farrell, Allison K; Simpson, Jeffry A; Griskevicius, Vladas; Szepsenwol, Ohad

2018-04-01

Jealousy is a complex, dynamic experience that unfolds over time in relationship-threatening situations. Prior research has used retrospective reports that cannot disentangle initial levels and change in jealousy in response to escalating threat. In three studies, we examined responses to the Response Escalation Paradigm (REP)-a 5-stage hypothetical scenario in which individuals are exposed to increasing levels of relationship threat-as a function of attachment orientations. Highly anxious individuals exhibited hypervigilant, slow escalation response patterns, interfered earlier in the REP, felt more jealousy, sadness, and worry when they interfered, and wanted to engage in more vigilant, destructive, and passive behaviors aimed at their partner. Highly avoidant individuals felt more anger when they interfered in the REP and wanted to engage in more partner-focused, destructive behaviors. The REP offers a dynamic method for inducing and examining jealousy and introduces a novel approach to studying other emotional experiences.

The interaction between embodiment and empathy in facial expression recognition

PubMed Central

Jospe, Karine; Flöel, Agnes; Lavidor, Michal

2018-01-01

Abstract Previous research has demonstrated that the Action-Observation Network (AON) is involved in both emotional-embodiment (empathy) and action-embodiment mechanisms. In this study, we hypothesized that interfering with the AON will impair action recognition and that this impairment will be modulated by empathy levels. In Experiment 1 (n = 90), participants were asked to recognize facial expressions while their facial motion was restricted. In Experiment 2 (n = 50), we interfered with the AON by applying transcranial Direct Current Stimulation to the motor cortex. In both experiments, we found that interfering with the AON impaired the performance of participants with high empathy levels; however, for the first time, we demonstrated that the interference enhanced the performance of participants with low empathy. This novel finding suggests that the embodiment module may be flexible, and that it can be enhanced in individuals with low empathy by simple manipulation of motor activation. PMID:29378022

Trans-acting small interfering RNA4: key to nutraceutical synthesis in grape development?

PubMed

Rock, Christopher D

2013-11-01

The facility and versatility of microRNAs (miRNAs) to evolve and change likely underlies how they have become dominant constituents of eukaryotic genomes. In this opinion article I propose that trans-acting small interfering RNA gene 4 (TAS4) evolution may be important for biosynthesis of polyphenolics, arbuscular symbiosis, and bacterial pathogen etiologies. Expression-based and phylogenetic evidence shows that TAS4 targets two novel grape (Vitis vinifera L.) MYB transcription factors (VvMYBA6, VvMYBA7) that spawn phased small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) which probably function in nutraceutical bioflavonoid biosynthesis and fruit development. Characterization of the molecular mechanisms of TAS4 control of plant development and integration into biotic and abiotic stress- and nutrient-signaling regulatory networks has applicability to molecular breeding and the development of strategies for engineering healthier foods. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Persistent toxic substances and the health of fish communities in the Great Lakes

USGS Publications Warehouse

Willford, Wayne A.; Evans, Marlene S.

1988-01-01

The role, if any, of toxic substances in bringing about changes in the productivity and status of fishery resources, is not well understood. At the 'Workshops on Persistent Toxic Substances and the Health of the Aquatic Community,' the Fish Biota Discussion Subgroup considered the issue of toxic substances by responding to the three questions addressed to it by the Workshop Organizing Committee as described earlier in the introduction to these proceedings. In responding to these questions, the Subgroup members took into account the earlier, formal presentations made during the Symposium, the published literature applicable to the subject area, and personal knowledge gained from research on Great Lakes fisheries or containments. The major discussions, conclusions, and recommendations of the Subgroup summarized here were developed during these deliberations and are presented under the major headings of the questions asked of the Subgroup.

Mutation assays involving blood cells that metabolize toxic substances

DOEpatents

Crespi, C.L.; Thilly, W.G.

1999-08-10

The present invention pertains to a line of human blood cells which have high levels of oxidative activity (such as oxygenase, oxidase, peroxidase, and hydroxylase activity). Such cells grow in suspension culture, and are useful to determine the mutagenicity of xenobiotic substances that are metabolized into toxic or mutagenic substances. The invention also includes mutation assays using these cells, and other cells with similar characteristics. 3 figs.

Are There Gender-Specific Pathways from Early Adolescence Psychological Distress Symptoms toward the Development of Substance Use and Abnormal Eating Behavior?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Beato-Fernandez, Luis; Rodriguez-Cano, Teresa; Pelayo-Delgado, Esther; Calaf, Myralys

2007-01-01

The aim of the present longitudinal community study was to test whether psychological distress at 13 years of age predicted reported substance use problems in boys and abnormal eating behavior in girls 2 years later. The sample consisted of 500 male and 576 female students. The use of substances was evaluated using a semi-structured interview,…

Levels of teen dating violence and substance use in an urban emergency department.

PubMed

Mason, Michael J; Campbell, Leah; Zaharakis, Nikola; Foster, Robin; Richards, Susan

2014-01-01

Teen dating violence (TDV) is associated with multiple sequelae including substance use. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence and association between levels of dating violence and substance use among urban adolescents presenting at a pediatric emergency department (ED). As part of standard practice, 282 adolescents were screened for relationship status, producing 135 dating violence screens. Scales from the Revised Conflict Tactics Scale and the Youth Risk Behavior Survey were used to capture variables of interest. Logistic regression was performed to test the influence of levels of dating violence on substance use, while controlling for gender, race, age, sexual orientation, and psychiatric symptoms. Over one-quarter of those teens (27.3%) within a current relationship reported experiencing any dating violence, 26.1% experienced psychological violence, and 11.9% experienced physical violence. Teens experiencing psychological violence were at twice the risk for any substance use (alcohol, marijuana, and tobacco use) and specifically for alcohol and marijuana, whereas no increased risk was found for teens experiencing physical violence. This study contributes to the understanding of TDV within the context of high-risk, urban adolescents presenting at a pediatric ED. Identifying levels of TDV and understanding the association with substance use can provide an important foundation for prevention and early intervention for urban youth.