Destruction of newly released red blood cells in space flight

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Alfrey, C. P.; Udden, M. M.; Huntoon, C. L.; Driscoll, T.

1996-01-01

Space flight results in a rapid change in total blood volume, plasma volume, and red blood cell mass because the space to contain blood is decreased. The plasma volume and total blood volume decreases during the first hours in space and remain at a decreased level for the remainder of the flight. During the first several hours following return to earth, plasma volume and total blood volume increase to preflight levels. During the first few days in space recently produced red blood cells disappear from the blood resulting in a decrease in red blood cell mass of 10-15%. Red cells 12 d old or older survive normally and production of new cells continues at near preflight levels. After the first few days in space, the red cell mass is stable at the decreased level. Following return to earth the hemoglobin and red blood cell mass concentrations decrease reflecting the increase in plasma volume. The erythropoietin levels increase responding to "postflight anemia"; red cell production increases, and the red cell mass is restored to preflight levels after several weeks.

Effect of consumer cooking on furan in convenience foods.

PubMed

Roberts, D; Crews, C; Grundy, H; Mills, C; Matthews, W

2008-01-01

The effect of domestic preparation regimes on the level of the heat-formed toxicant furan was studied to provide useful information for exposure assessment and advice for manufacturers and consumers. Foods were cooked in a saucepan on a gas hob or microwaved and furan was determined by headspace sampling with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. In general, furan levels did not decrease as much when foods were cooked in a microwave oven when compared with the same foods cooked in a saucepan. Furan levels decreased in most canned and jarred foods after heating in a saucepan. Low levels of furan in soups in cartons were not changed by any procedure. Furan decreased slightly in foods on standing before consumption, but did so more rapidly on stirring. The levels also decreased slightly when foods were left to stand on plates; this observation is attributed to the volatility of furan.

Polyphosphate and Orthophosphate Content of Nitrosomonas europaea as a Function of Growth

PubMed Central

Terry, K. R.; Hooper, A. B.

1970-01-01

After inoculation of a stationary-phase culture of Nitrosomonas europaea into fresh growth solution, the cell-associated orthophosphate increased rapidly to 800 μmoles/g (wet weight), whereas the acid-insoluble long-chain polyphosphate content decreased rapidly to 22 μmoles/g. As growth proceeded, the orthophosphate content decreased rapidly to a level of 15 μmoles/g and the long-chain polyphosphate content gradually increased to 60 to 90 μmoles/g. When the pH of a culture of Nitrosomonas decreased during growth below approximately 7.4, the rate of nitrite and polyphosphate synthesis increased and the ratio of change in protein to change in nitrite decreased. When the pH of the culture was maintained above 7.6 throughout growth, polyphosphate accumulation, an increased rate of nitrite and polyphosphate synthesis, and a decreased ratio of change in protein to change in nitrite were not observed. Cells of Nitrosomonas apparently accumulated polyphosphate when adenosine triphosphate generated during the oxidation of ammonia to nitrite was not efficiently used to promote an increase in cell mass. The rapid hydrolysis of polyphosphate after the transfer of stationary-phase cells into fresh growth solution was found to be triggered primarily by the higher pH of the fresh growth solution. The efflux of orthophosphate during culture growth was not associated with a decrease in the pH of the growth solution. Data on the chemical composition of Nitrosomonas are presented. PMID:5423370

An integrated investigation of lake storage and water level changes in the Paiku Co basin, central Himalayas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lei, Yanbin; Yao, Tandong; Yang, Kun; Bird, Broxton W.; Tian, Lide; Zhang, Xiaowen; Wang, Weicai; Xiang, Yang; Dai, Yufeng; Lazhu; Zhou, Jing; Wang, Lei

2018-07-01

Since the late 1990s, lakes in the southern Tibetan Plateau (TP) have shrunk considerably, which contrasts with the rapid expansion of lakes in the interior TP. Although these spatial trends have been well documented, the underlying hydroclimatic mechanisms are not well understood. Since 2013, we have carried out comprehensive water budget observations at Paiku Co, an alpine lake in the central Himalayas. In this study, we investigate water storage and lake level changes on seasonal to decadal time scales based on extensive in-situ measurements and satellite observations. Bathymetric surveys show that Paiku Co has a mean and maximum water depth of 41.1 m and 72.8 m, respectively, and its water storage was estimated to be 109.3 × 108 m3 in June 2016. On seasonal scale between 2013 and 2017, Paiku Co's lake level decreased slowly between January and May, increased considerably between June and September, and then decreased rapidly between October and January. On decadal time scale, Paiku Co's lake level decreased by 3.7 ± 0.3 m and water storage reduced by (10.2 ± 0.8) × 108 m3 between 1972 and 2015, accounting for 8.5% of the total water storage in 1972. This change is consistent with a trend towards drier conditions in the Himalaya region during the recent decades. In contrast, glacial lakes within Paiku Co's basin expanded rapidly, indicating that, unlike Paiku Co, glacial meltwater was sufficient to compensate the effect of the reduced precipitation.

KINETICS OF THE ACTION OF AMPICILLIN ON ESCHERICHIA COLI

PubMed Central

Seligman, Stephen J.; Hewitt, William L.

1963-01-01

Seligman, Stephen J. (University of California, Los Angeles) and William L. Hewitt. Kinetics of the action of ampicillin on Escherichia coli. J. Bacteriol. 85:1160–1164. 1963.—The curve of the number of viable Escherichia coli after exposure to ampicillin can be divided into three phases: a lag phase, a rapid bactericidal phase, and a slow bactericidal phase. Some of the variables affecting the magnitude of the first two of these phases were investigated. Progressive lowering of drug concentration resulted in prolongation of the lag phase and decrease in slope and extent of the rapid bactericidal phase. The production of elongated gram-negative forms and the emergence of a mutant with increased penicillinase activity complicated interpretation of the lower dose curves. With sufficient drug concentration, the length of the lag phase and the slope of the rapid bactericidal curve were independent of the size of inoculum up to 108 organisms. Varying pH revealed that maximal activity, as measured by the shortest lag phase and steepest slope of the rapid bactericidal phase, was present at slightly acid pH levels. Increasing pH resulted principally in prolongation of lag phase. With greater acidity, decrease in slope of the rapid bactericidal phase was more prominent. Cultures studied under conditions of lessened metabolic activity exhibited prolonged lag phase and decreased slope and extent of rapid bactericidal phase. PMID:14044010

Seabirds, gyres and global trends in plastic pollution.

PubMed

van Franeker, Jan A; Law, Kara Lavender

2015-08-01

Fulmars are effective biological indicators of the abundance of floating plastic marine debris. Long-term data reveal high plastic abundance in the southern North Sea, gradually decreasing to the north at increasing distance from population centres, with lowest levels in high-arctic waters. Since the 1980s, pre-production plastic pellets in North Sea fulmars have decreased by ∼75%, while user plastics varied without a strong overall change. Similar trends were found in net-collected floating plastic debris in the North Atlantic subtropical gyre, with a ∼75% decrease in plastic pellets and no obvious trend in user plastic. The decreases in pellets suggest that changes in litter input are rapidly visible in the environment not only close to presumed sources, but also far from land. Floating plastic debris is rapidly "lost" from the ocean surface to other as-yet undetermined sinks in the marine environment. Copyright © 2015 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

Use of the APACHE II score to assess impact of therapeutic plasma exchange for critically ill patients with hypertriglyceride-induced pancreatitis.

PubMed

Nakhoda, Shazia; Zimrin, Ann B; Baer, Maria R; Law, Jennie Y

2017-04-01

Hypertriglyceridemic (HTG) pancreatitis carries significant morbidity and mortality and often requires intensive care unit (ICU) admission. Therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) rapidly lowers serum triglyceride (TG) levels. However, evidence supporting TPE for HTG pancreatitis is lacking. Ten patients admitted to the ICU for HTG pancreatitis underwent TPE at our institution from 2005-2015. We retrospectively calculated the Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Examination II (APACHE II) score at the time of initial TPE and again after the final TPE session to assess the impact of triglyceride apheresis on morbidity and mortality associated with HTG pancreatitis. All 10 patients had rapid reduction in TG level after TPE, but only 5 had improvement in their APACHE II score. The median APACHE II score decreased from 19% to 17% after TPE, correlating with an 8% and 9% decrease in median predicted non-operative and post-operative mortality, respectively. The APACHE II score did not differ statistically before and after TPE implementation in our patient group (p=0.39). TPE is a clinically useful tool to rapidly lower TG levels, but its impact on mortality of HTG pancreatitis as assessed by the APACHE II score remains uncertain. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Feeding status and serotonin rapidly and reversibly modulate a Caenorhabditis elegans chemosensory circuit

PubMed Central

Chao, Michael Y.; Komatsu, Hidetoshi; Fukuto, Hana S.; Dionne, Heather M.; Hart, Anne C.

2004-01-01

Serotonin (5-HT) modulates synaptic efficacy in the nervous system of vertebrates and invertebrates. In the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans, many behaviors are regulated by 5-HT levels, which are in turn regulated by the presence or absence of food. Here, we show that both food and 5-HT signaling modulate chemosensory avoidance response of octanol in C. elegans, and that this modulation is both rapid and reversible. Sensitivity to octanol is decreased when animals are off food or when 5-HT levels are decreased; conversely, sensitivity is increased when animals are on food or have increased 5-HT signaling. Laser microsurgery and behavioral experiments reveal that sensory input from different subsets of octanol-sensing neurons is selectively used, depending on stimulus strength, feeding status, and 5-HT levels. 5-HT directly targets at least one pair of sensory neurons, and 5-HT signaling requires the Gα protein GPA-11. Glutamatergic signaling is required for response to octanol, and the GLR-1 glutamate receptor plays an important role in behavioral response off food but not on food. Our results demonstrate that 5-HT modulation of neuronal activity via G protein signaling underlies behavioral plasticity by rapidly altering the functional circuitry of a chemosensory circuit. PMID:15492222

Effect of semi-rapid maxillary expansion in children with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome: 5-month follow-up study.

PubMed

Hoxha, Saimir; Kaya-Sezginer, Ecem; Bakar-Ates, Filiz; Köktürk, Oğuz; Toygar-Memikoğlu, Ufuk

2018-02-17

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of semi-rapid maxillary expansion (SRME) orthodontic treatment on biomarkers and respiratory parameters in children with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) and maxillary transverse deficiency. Thirty children with OSAS were included in this study. Fifteen children were enrolled as control, and 15 children were subjected to SRME orthodontic treatment method for 5 months. Beside respiratory parameters, pharyngeal area, dental arch, and postero-anterior widths and the levels of OSAS biomarkers in serum and urine were measured. Pharyngeal airway space, dental arch, and postero-anterior widths were increased after SRME treatment. Sleep tests showed a decrease in the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) after 5-month control/treatment duration. Serum kallikrein (KLK)1 levels decreased significantly in the treatment group. There was a significant increase in serum orosomucoid (ORM)2 levels and a decrease in urine perlecan levels in the control group after a 5-month follow-up. A significant negative correlation between serum ORM2, perlecan, gelsolin, and KLK1 levels and intercanin width, as well as between serum ORM2 and KLK1 levels and intermolar width, was observed. SRME treatment can be considered as a useful approach in children with OSAS. A further investigation of OSAS-related biomarkers and their relationship with sleep and orthodontic parameters is needed for providing easier and reliable modulatory strategies in the treatment of OSAS.

Neocytolysis on descent from altitude: a newly recognized mechanism for the control of red cell mass

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rice, L.; Ruiz, W.; Driscoll, T.; Whitley, C. E.; Tapia, R.; Hachey, D. L.; Gonzales, G. F.; Alfrey, C. P.

2001-01-01

BACKGROUND: Studies of space-flight anemia have uncovered a physiologic process, neocytolysis, by which young red blood cells are selectively hemolyzed, allowing rapid adaptation when red cell mass is excessive for a new environment. OBJECTIVES: 1) To confirm that neocytolysis occurs in another situation of acute plethora-when high-altitude dwellers with polycythemia descend to sea level; and 2) to clarify the role of erythropoietin suppression. DESIGN: Prospective observational and interventional study. SETTING: Cerro de Pasco (4380 m) and Lima (sea level), Peru. PARTICIPANTS: Nine volunteers with polycythemia. INTERVENTIONS: Volunteers were transported to sea level; three received low-dose erythropoietin. MEASUREMENTS: Changes in red cell mass, hematocrit, hemoglobin concentration, reticulocyte count, ferritin level, serum erythropoietin, and enrichment of administered(13)C in heme. RESULTS: In six participants, red cell mass decreased by 7% to 10% within a few days of descent; this decrease was mirrored by a rapid increase in serum ferritin level. Reticulocyte production did not decrease, a finding that establishes a hemolytic mechanism.(13)C changes in circulating heme were consistent with hemolysis of young cells. Erythropoietin was suppressed, and administration of exogenous erythropoietin prevented the changes in red cell mass, serum ferritin level, and(13)C-heme. CONCLUSIONS: Neocytolysis and the role of erythropoietin are confirmed in persons with polycythemia who descend from high altitude. This may have implications that extend beyond space and altitude medicine to renal disease and other situations of erythropoietin suppression, hemolysis, and polycythemia.

Neutron and gamma irradiation effects on power semiconductor switches

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schwarze, G. E.; Frasca, A. J.

1990-01-01

The performance characteristics of high-power semiconductor switches subjected to high levels of neutron fluence and gamma dose must be known by the designer of the power conditioning, control and transmission subsystem of space nuclear power systems. Location and the allowable shielding mass budget will determine the level of radiation tolerance required by the switches to meet performance and reliability requirements. Neutron and gamma ray interactions with semiconductor materials and how these interactions affect the electrical and switching characteristics of solid state power switches is discussed. The experimental measurement system and radiation facilities are described. Experimental data showing the effects of neutron and gamma irradiation on the performance characteristics are given for power-type NPN Bipolar Junction Transistors (BJTs), and Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor Field Effect Transistors (MOSFETs). BJTs show a rapid decrease in gain, blocking voltage, and storage time for neutron irradiation, and MOSFETs show a rapid decrease in the gate threshold voltage for gamma irradiation.

Neutron and gamma irradiation effects on power semiconductor switches

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schwarze, G. E.; Frasca, A. J.

1990-01-01

The performance characteristics of high power semiconductor switches subjected to high levels of neutron fluence and gamma dose must be known by the designer of the power conditioning, control and transmission subsystem of space nuclear power systems. Location and the allowable shielding mass budget will determine the level of radiation tolerance required by the switches to meet performance and reliability requirements. Neutron and gamma ray interactions with semiconductor materials and how these interactions affect the electrical and switching characteristics of solid state power switches is discussed. The experimental measurement system and radiation facilities are described. Experimental data showing the effects of neutron and gamma irradiation on the performance characteristics are given for power-type NPN Bipolar Junction Transistors (BJTs), and Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor Field Effect Transistors (MOSFETs). BJTs show a rapid decrease in gain, blocking voltage, and storage time for neutron irradiation, and MOSFETs show a rapid decrease in the gate threshold voltage for gamma irradiation.

Changes in DNA methylation fingerprint of Quercus ilex trees in response to experimental field drought simulating projected climate change.

PubMed

Rico, L; Ogaya, R; Barbeta, A; Peñuelas, J

2014-03-01

Rapid genetic changes in plants have been reported in response to current climate change. We assessed the capacity of trees in a natural forest to produce rapid acclimation responses based on epigenetic modifications. We analysed natural populations of Quercus ilex, the dominant tree species of Mediterranean forests, using the methylation-sensitive amplified polymorphism (MSAP) technique to assess patterns and levels of methylation in individuals from unstressed forest plots and from plots experimentally exposed to drought for 12 years at levels projected for the coming decades. The percentage of hypermethylated loci increased, and the percentage of fully methylated loci clearly decreased in plants exposed to drought. Multivariate analyses exploring the status of methylation at MSAP loci also showed clear differentiation depending on stress. The PCA scores for the MSAP profiles clearly separated the genetic from the epigenetic structure, and also significantly separated the samples within each group in response to drought. Changes in DNA methylation highlight the large capacity of plants to rapidly acclimate to changing environmental conditions, including trees with long life spans, and our results demonstrate those changes. These changes, although unable to prevent the decreased growth and higher mortality associated with this experimental drought, occurred together with a dampening in such decreases as the long-term treatment progressed. © 2013 German Botanical Society and The Royal Botanical Society of the Netherlands.

Capturing Young American Trust in National Databases

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Menard, Lauren A.

2011-01-01

A pattern of decreasing trusting proportions in each consecutive decade and increasing trusting proportions with age was revealed in data. Although trust levels were lower in younger adults and the 2000s, findings did not support hypotheses of more rapidly falling trust levels or a college degree procuring less trust in the 2000s. A hypothesis of…

Rapid decreases in preoptic aromatase activity and brain monoamine concentrations after engaging in male sexual behavior.

PubMed

Cornil, C A; Dalla, C; Papadopoulou-Daifoti, Z; Baillien, M; Dejace, C; Ball, G F; Balthazart, J

2005-09-01

In Japanese quail, as in rats, the expression of male sexual behavior over relatively long time periods (days to weeks) is dependent on the local production of estradiol in the preoptic area via the aromatization of testosterone. On a short-term basis (minutes to hours), central actions of dopamine as well as locally produced estrogens modulate behavioral expression. In rats, a view of and sexual interaction with a female increase dopamine release in the preoptic area. In quail, in vitro brain aromatase activity (AA) is rapidly modulated by calcium-dependent phosphorylations that are likely to occur in vivo as a result of changes in neurotransmitter activity. Furthermore, an acute estradiol injection rapidly stimulates copulation in quail, whereas a single injection of the aromatase inhibitor vorozole rapidly inhibits this behavior. We hypothesized that brain aromatase and dopaminergic activities are regulated in quail in association with the expression of male sexual behavior. Visual access as well as sexual interactions with a female produced a significant decrease in brain AA, which was maximal after 5 min. This expression of sexual behavior also resulted in a significant decrease in dopaminergic as well as serotonergic activity after 1 min, which returned to basal levels after 5 min. These results demonstrate for the first time that AA is rapidly modulated in vivo in parallel with changes in dopamine activity. Sexual interactions with the female decreased aromatase and dopamine activities. These data challenge established views about the causal relationships among dopamine, estrogen action, and male sexual behavior.

Rapid decreases in preoptic aromatase activity and brain monoamine concentrations after engaging in male sexual behavior

PubMed Central

Cornil, C. A.; Dalla, C.; Papadopoulou-Daifoti, Z.; Baillien, M.; Dejace, C.; Ball, G.F.; Balthazart, J.

2014-01-01

In Japanese quail as in rats, the expression of male sexual behavior over relatively long time periods (days to weeks) is dependent on the local production of estradiol in the preoptic area via the aromatization of testosterone. On a short-term basis (minutes to hours), central actions of dopamine as well as locally produced estrogens modulate behavioral expression. In rats, a view of and sexual interaction with a female increases dopamine release in the preoptic area. In quail, in vitro brain aromatase activity is rapidly modulated by calcium-dependent phosphorylations that are likely to occur in vivo as a result of changes in neurotransmitter activity. Furthermore, an acute estradiol injection rapidly stimulates copulation in quail, while a single injection of the aromatase inhibitor Vorozole™ rapidly inhibits this behavior. We hypothesized that brain aromatase and dopaminergic activities are regulated in quail in association with the expression of male sexual behavior. Visual access as well as sexual interactions with a female produced a significant decrease in brain aromatase activity that was maximal after 5 min. This expression of sexual behavior also resulted in a significant decrease in dopaminergic as well as serotonergic activity after 1 min, which returned to basal levels after 5 min. These results demonstrate for the first time that aromatase activity is rapidly modulated in vivo in parallel with changes in dopamine activity. Sexual interactions with the female decreased aromatase and dopamine activity. These data challenges established views about the causal relationships among dopamine, estrogen action and male sexual behavior. PMID:15932925

Rapid effects of deep brain stimulation reactivation on symptoms and neuroendocrine parameters in obsessive-compulsive disorder

PubMed Central

de Koning, P P; Figee, M; Endert, E; van den Munckhof, P; Schuurman, P R; Storosum, J G; Denys, D; Fliers, E

2016-01-01

Improvement of obsessions and compulsions by deep brain stimulation (DBS) for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is often preceded by a rapid and transient mood elevation (hypomania). In a previous study we showed that improvement of mood by DBS for OCD is associated with a decreased activity of the hypothalamus–pituitary adrenal axis. The aim of our present study was to evaluate the time course of rapid clinical changes following DBS reactivation in more detail and to assess their association with additional neuroendocrine parameters. We included therapy-refractory OCD patients treated with DBS (>1 year) and performed a baseline assessment of symptoms, as well as plasma concentrations of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), prolactin, growth hormone, copeptin and homovanillic acid. This was repeated after a 1-week DBS OFF condition. Next, we assessed the rapid effects of DBS reactivation by measuring psychiatric symptom changes using visual analog scales as well as repeated neuroendocrine measures after 30 min, 2 h and 6 h. OCD, anxiety and depressive symptoms markedly increased during the 1-week OFF condition and decreased again to a similar extent already 2 h after DBS reactivation. We found lower plasma prolactin (41% decrease, P=0.003) and TSH (39% decrease, P=0.003) levels during DBS OFF, which increased significantly already 30 min after DBS reactivation. The rapid and simultaneous increase in TSH and prolactin is likely to result from stimulation of hypothalamic thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH), which may underlie the commonly observed transient mood elevation following DBS. PMID:26812043

Carotenoids buffer the acute phase response on fever, sickness behavior and rapid bill color change in zebra finches.

PubMed

George, Deanna B; Schneider, Brent C; McGraw, Kevin J; Ardia, Daniel R

2017-08-15

Carotenoids are finite resources that animals can allocate to self-maintenance, attractiveness or reproduction. Here we test how carotenoids affect the acute phase response (APR), an intense rapid systemic response characterized by fever, sickness behavior and production of acute phase proteins, which serves to reduce pathogen persistence. We conducted a 2×2 factorial design experiment in captive adult male and female zebra finches ( Taeniopygia guttata ) to determine the effects of carotenoid supplementation on the intensity of the APR. We measured changes in feeding rate, activity level and body temperature of the birds. We found that, relative to unsupplemented controls, carotenoid-supplemented birds exhibited less severe reductions in feeding and activity, smaller increases in body temperature and lower circulating levels of haptoglobin (an acute phase protein) 24 h after inducing an APR. Among supplemented individuals, those with higher blood carotenoid levels exhibited a lower reduction in activity rate after 24 h. Forty-eight hours after APR induction, birds exhibited a significant decrease in plasma carotenoid levels and a decrease in bill hue, with less reduction in hue in carotenoid-supplemented individuals. These results demonstrate that carotenoids can alleviate several important behavioral and physiological effects of an APR and that bill color can change rapidly following induction of the costly APR immune defense. In particular, immune activation may have caused birds to preferentially draw down carotenoids from the bloodstream, ostensibly for use in health. Rapid bill color changes over a 48-h period support growing evidence that bills may serve as short-term signals of health and condition. © 2017. Published by The Company of Biologists Ltd.

Expression of Leaf Nitrate Reductase Genes from Tomato and Tobacco in Relation to Light-Dark Regimes and Nitrate Supply

PubMed Central

Galangau, Fabienne; Daniel-Vedele, Françoise; Moureaux, Thérèse; Dorbe, Marie-France; Leydecker, Marie-Thérèse; Caboche, Michel

1988-01-01

The influence of light-dark cycles and nitrate supply on nitrate reductase (NR) mRNA levels was studied in two plant species, tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) and tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum) using specific NR DNA probes. In the same series of experiments, changes in the levels of NR protein (NRP) by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and changes in the level of NADH-nitrate reductase activity (NRA) were also followed. During a light-dark cycle, it was found that in both tomato and tobacco, NR mRNA accumulation increased rapidly during the dark period and reached a maximum at the beginning of the day, while NRP reached a peak 2 and 4 hours after mRNA peaked, for tomato and tobacco, respectively. At the end of the day, the amount of mRNA was decreased by a factor of at least 100 compared to sunrise in both species. These results demonstrate that light is involved, although probably not directly, in the regulation of the NR gene expression at the mRNA level. The peak of NRA in tobacco coincided with the peak in NR mRNA accumulation (i.e. sunrise), whereas in tomato the peak of NRA was approximately 5 to 6 hours after sunrise. There is no obvious correlation between NRP and NRA levels during the day. In nitrogen starvation experiments, a rapid decrease of NRP and NRA was detected, while NR mRNA levels were not significantly altered. Upon nitrate replenishment, nitrogen-starved plants accumulated NR mRNA rapidly. These results suggest that the availability of nitrogen affects the expression of NR activity at the transcriptional as well as at the post-transcriptional levels. Images Fig. 3 Fig. 5 Fig. 6 PMID:16666313

Effects of indigo carmine intravenous injection on oxygen reserve index (ORi™) measurement.

PubMed

Isosu, Tsuyoshi; Yoshida, Keisuke; Oishi, Rieko; Imaizumi, Tsuyoshi; Iseki, Yuzo; Sanbe, Norie; Ikegami, Yukihiro; Obara, Shinju; Kurosawa, Shin; Murakawa, Masahiro

2017-10-03

To retrospectively investigate the effects of indigo carmine intravenous injection on oxygen reserve index (ORi™) in 20 patients who underwent elective gynecologic surgery under general anesthesia. The study subjects were patients who underwent elective gynecologic surgery under general anesthesia between April 2016 and January 2017, and were administered a 5-ml intravenous injection of 0.4% indigo carmine for clinical purposes during surgery with ORi monitoring. Changes in ORi within 20 min after indigo carmine injection were observed. A relevant decrease in ORi was defined as ≥ 10% reduction in ORi from pre-injection level. ORi rapidly decreased after indigo carmine intravenous injection in all patients. In 10 of 19 patients, ORi decreased to 0 after indigo carmine injection. The median lowest value of ORi was 0 (range 0-0.16) and the median time to reach the lowest value of ORi was 2 min (range 1-4 min) after injection. ORi values returned to pre-injection levels within 20 min in 13 of 19 patients, and the median time to return to pre-injection levels was 10 min (range 6-16 min) after injection. During ORi monitoring it is necessary to consider the rapid reduction in ORi after intravenous injection of indigo carmine.

Metabolic cooperation of ascorbic acid and glutathione in normal and vitamin C-deficient ODS rats.

PubMed

Wang, Y; Kashiba, M; Kasahara, E; Tsuchiya, M; Sato, E F; Utsumi, K; Inoue, M

2001-01-01

Although the coordination of various antioxidants is important for the protection of organisms from oxidative stress, dynamic aspects of the interaction of endogenous antioxidants in vivo remain to be elucidated. We studied the metabolic coordination of two naturally occurring water-soluble antioxidants, ascorbic acid (AA) and reduced glutathione (GSH), in liver, kidney and plasma of control and scurvy-prone osteogenic disorder Shionogi (ODS) rats that hereditarily lack the ability to synthesize AA. When supplemented with AA, its levels in liver and kidney of ODS rats increased to similar levels of those in control rats. Hepato-renal levels of glutathione were similar with the two animal groups except for the slight increase in its hepatic levels in AA-supplemented ODS rats. Administration of L-buthionine sulfoximine (BSO), a specific inhibitor of GSH synthesis, rapidly decreased the hepato-renal levels of glutathione in a biphasic manner, a rapid phase followed by a slower phase. Kinetic analysis revealed that glutathione turnover was enhanced significantly in liver mitochondria and renal cytosol of ODS rats. Administration of BSO significantly increased AA levels in the liver and kidney of control rats but decreased them in AA-supplemented ODS rats. Kinetic analysis revealed that AA is synthesized by control rat liver by some BSO-enhanced mechanism and the de novo synthesized AA is transferred to the kidney. Such a coordination of the metabolism of GSH and AA in liver and kidney is suppressed in AA-deficient ODS rats. These and other results suggest that the metabolism of AA and GSH forms a compensatory network by which oxidative stress can be decreased.

Short Communication: Lack of Immune Response in Rapid Progressor Morphine-Dependent and SIV/SHIV-Infected Rhesus Macaques Is Correlated with Downregulation of TH1 Cytokines

PubMed Central

Kumar, Rakesh; Noel, Richard J.; Garcia, Yashira; Rodriguez, Idia V.; Martinez, Melween; Sariol, Carlos A.; Kraiselburd, Edmundo; Iszard, Marcus; Mukherji, Mridul; Kumar, Santosh; Giavedoni, Luis D.; Kumar, Anil

2010-01-01

Abstract Our previous studies have shown two distinct disease patterns (rapid and normal onset of clinical symptoms) in morphine-dependent SHIV/SIV-inoculated rhesus macaques. We have also shown that control as well as 50% of morphine-dependent macaques (normal progressor) developed humoral and cellular immune responses whereas the other half of the morphine-dependent macaques (rapid progressor) did not develop antiviral immune responses after infection with SIV/SHIV. In the present study, we analyzed the association between cytokine production, immune response, and disease progression. To study the immunological effects of morphine at cytokine levels in the context of a lentiviral infection, we inoculated rhesus macaques with a mixture of SHIVKU−18, SHIV89.6P, and SIV/17E-Fr. These animals were followed for a period of 56 weeks for cytokine level production in plasma. Drug-dependent rapid disease progressors exhibited an increase in IL-18 and IL-1Ra and a decrease in IL-12 levels in the plasma. Morphine-dependent normal progressors and control macaques exhibited an increase in both IL-18 and IL-12, whereas IL-Ra levels remained constant throughout the observation period. These results suggest that rapid disease progression in relation to morphine dependency may be the result of an altered cytokine profile. PMID:20672973

Skin surface hydration decreases rapidly during long distance flights.

PubMed

Guéhenneux, Sabine; Gardinier, Sophie; Morizot, Frederique; Le Fur, Isabelle; Tschachler, Erwin

2012-05-01

Dehydration of the stratum corneum leads to sensations and symptoms of 'dry skin' such as skin tightness and itchiness. As these complaints are frequently experienced by airline travellers, the aim of this study was to investigate the changes in skin surface hydration during long distance flights. The study was performed on four healthy Caucasian, and on four Japanese women aged 29-39 years, travelling on long distance flights. They had stopped using skin care products at least 12 h before, and did not apply them during the flights. The air temperature and relative humidity inside the cabin, as well as skin capacitance of the face and forearm of participants, were registered at several time points before and during the flights. Relative humidity of the aircraft cabin dropped to levels below 10% within 2 h after take-off and stayed at this value throughout the flight. Skin capacitance decreased rapidly on both the face and forearms with most pronounced changes on the cheeks where it decreased by up to 37%. Our results demonstrate that during long distance flights, the aircraft cabin environment leads to a rapid decrease in stratum corneum hydration, an alteration, which probably accounts for the discomfort experienced by long distance aircraft travellers. © 2011 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

The effects of starch and rapidly degradable dry matter from concentrate on ruminal digestion in dairy cows fed corn silage-based diets with fixed forage proportion.

PubMed

Lechartier, C; Peyraud, J-L

2011-05-01

This study investigated the effects of the type (starch vs. nonstarch) and rate of ruminal degradation of carbohydrates from the concentrate on digestion in dairy cows fed corn silage-based diets. Six ruminally cannulated cows were assigned to 6 treatments in a 6 × 6 Latin square design. Treatments were arranged in a 3 × 2 factorial design. Two starch levels [25 and 41% dry matter (DM) for low starch (LS) and high starch (HS) diets, respectively] were obtained by replacing starch-rich feedstuffs by nonstarch feedstuffs. These starch levels were combined with slowly, moderately, and rapidly rumen-degradable feedstuffs to obtain 3 levels of rapidly degradable carbohydrates from concentrate (18, 23, and 28% DM). These levels were estimated from the DM disappearance of concentrate after 4h of in sacco incubation (CRDM). Wheat and corn grain were used as rapidly degradable and slowly degradable starch feedstuffs, respectively. Soybean hulls and citrus pulp were used as slowly degradable and rapidly degradable nonstarch feedstuffs, respectively. No interaction effect was found between dietary starch content and CRDM on pH range, volatile fatty acid (VFA) range, or VFA profile. Increasing CRDM led to a linear decrease in acetate-to-propionate ratio (from 2.7 to 2.1), and a linear increase in the pH and VFA ranges (from 0.86 to 1.12 pH units and from 34 to 56mM, respectively). Feeding HS diets decreased acetate-to-propionate ratio (2.6 vs. 2.0) and increased pH range (0.89 vs. 1.04 pH units), but had no effect on VFA range. Increasing CRDM linearly decreased mean ruminal pH in LS diets but linearly increased mean ruminal pH in HS diets. Fibrolytic activity was unaffected in LS diets but decreased strongly in HS diets (from 62 to 50%). These findings suggest that pH regulation differs on a short-term and on a longer-term basis. In the short-term, increasing CRDM increased the rate of VFA production, which may have been partly buffered under LS diets due to the higher cation exchange capacity of nonstarch feedstuffs compared with starch-rich feedstuffs. In the longer term, feeding starch reduced fibrolytic activity, which may have led to lower total VFA production and higher mean pH. The results of this experiment clearly show that both fermentative characteristics of the concentrate and dietary starch content should be taken into account when formulating diets to prevent subacute ruminal acidosis and to predict VFA profile. Copyright © 2011 American Dairy Science Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

MRS of brain metabolite levels demonstrates the ability of scavenging of excess brain glutamate to protect against nerve agent induced seizures.

PubMed

Ruban, Angela; Biton, Inbal E; Markovich, Arik; Mirelman, David

2015-02-02

This study describes the use of in vivo magnetic resonance spectrocopy (MRS) to monitor brain glutamate and lactate levels in a paraoxon (PO) intoxication model. Our results show that the administration of recombinant glutamate-oxaloacetate transaminase (rGOT) in combination with oxaloacetate (OxAc) significantly reduces the brain-accumulated levels of glutamate. Previously we have shown that the treatment causes a rapid decrease of blood glutamate levels and creates a gradient between the brain and blood glutamate levels which leads to the efflux of excess brain glutamate into the blood stream thereby reducing its potential to cause neurological damage. The fact that this treatment significantly decreased the brain glutamate and lactate levels following PO intoxication suggests that it could become a new effective neuroprotective agent.

The rapid yellowing of spruce at a mountain site in the Central Black Forest (Germany). Combined effects of Mg deficiency and ozone on biochemical, physiological and structural properties of the chloroplasts.

PubMed

Siefermann-Harms, Dorothea; Boxler-Baldoma, Carmen; von Wilpert, Klaus; Heumann, Hans-Günther

2004-04-01

Biochemical, physiological and ultrastructural changes of the chloroplasts were examined in the course of the rapid yellowing process of spruce (Picea abies (L.) Karst.) at a Mg-deficient and ozone polluted mountain site (Schöllkopf mountain, Central Black Forest, Germany, 840 m a.s.l.). While at an early stage of yellowing the chlorophyll (Chl) content of the needles decreased slowly, significant changes occurred in the chloroplasts: The lability of the light-harvesting Chl a/b protein complex LHC II increased; the thylakoid cross-sectional area of chloroplasts in the outer mesophyll of the needles decreased, and their Chl fluorescence showed typical changes like the decrease of Fv/Fm and the increase of the photoinhibitory Fv quenching. Later on, the Chl content decreased rapidly, the changes in the chloroplasts continued and the needles turned yellow. Lutein and the pigments of the xanthophyll cycle were enhanced in relation to Chl a. Light and dark reactions of the xanthophyll cycle were highly active indicating efficient proton pumping and NADPH formation. The ratio of nonappressed to appressed thylakoid membranes increased with decreasing Fv/Fm suggesting that structural and fluorescence properties of the chloroplasts were related. The response of the needles to defined shading and improved Mg supply was also examined. The combined effects of strong sun light, low levels of non-Chl-bound Mg (Mg(free)) and ozone concentrations exceeding 80 microg m(-3) are shown to be necessary to induce the rapid yellowing process. For needles with Mg(free) < 0.12 mg g(-1) needle dry matter, the lability of the LHC II was correlated with the ozone concentration suggesting that the destabilization of the LHC II plays a central role in the rapid yellowing process.

Sudden collapse of vacuoles in Saintpaulia sp. palisade cells induced by a rapid temperature decrease.

PubMed

Kadohama, Noriaki; Goh, Tatsuaki; Ohnishi, Miwa; Fukaki, Hidehiro; Mimura, Tetsuro; Suzuki, Yoshihiro

2013-01-01

It is well known that saintpaulia leaf is damaged by the rapid temperature decrease when cold water is irrigated onto the leaf surface. We investigated this temperature sensitivity and the mechanisms of leaf damage in saintpaulia (Saintpaulia sp. cv. 'Iceberg') and other Gesneriaceae plants. Saintpaulia leaves were damaged and discolored when subjected to a rapid decrease in temperature, but not when the temperature was decreased gradually. Sensitivity to rapid temperature decrease increased within 10 to 20 min during pre-incubation at higher temperature. Injury was restricted to the palisade mesophyll cells, where there was an obvious change in the color of the chloroplasts. During a rapid temperature decrease, chlorophyll fluorescence monitored by a pulse amplitude modulated fluorometer diminished and did not recover even after rewarming to the initial temperature. Isolated chloroplasts were not directly affected by the rapid temperature decrease. Intracellular pH was monitored with a pH-dependent fluorescent dye. In palisade mesophyll cells damaged by rapid temperature decrease, the cytosolic pH decreased and the vacuolar membrane collapsed soon after a temperature decrease. In isolated chloroplasts, chlorophyll fluorescence declined when the pH of the medium was lowered. These results suggest that a rapid temperature decrease directly or indirectly affects the vacuolar membrane, resulting in a pH change in the cytosol that subsequently affects the chloroplasts in palisade mesophyll cells. We further confirmed that the same physiological damage occurs in other Gesneriaceae plants. These results strongly suggested that the vacuoles of palisade mesophyll cells collapsed during the initial phase of leaf injury.

Sudden Collapse of Vacuoles in Saintpaulia sp. Palisade Cells Induced by a Rapid Temperature Decrease

PubMed Central

Kadohama, Noriaki; Goh, Tatsuaki; Ohnishi, Miwa; Fukaki, Hidehiro; Mimura, Tetsuro; Suzuki, Yoshihiro

2013-01-01

It is well known that saintpaulia leaf is damaged by the rapid temperature decrease when cold water is irrigated onto the leaf surface. We investigated this temperature sensitivity and the mechanisms of leaf damage in saintpaulia (Saintpaulia sp. cv. ‘Iceberg’) and other Gesneriaceae plants. Saintpaulia leaves were damaged and discolored when subjected to a rapid decrease in temperature, but not when the temperature was decreased gradually. Sensitivity to rapid temperature decrease increased within 10 to 20 min during pre-incubation at higher temperature. Injury was restricted to the palisade mesophyll cells, where there was an obvious change in the color of the chloroplasts. During a rapid temperature decrease, chlorophyll fluorescence monitored by a pulse amplitude modulated fluorometer diminished and did not recover even after rewarming to the initial temperature. Isolated chloroplasts were not directly affected by the rapid temperature decrease. Intracellular pH was monitored with a pH-dependent fluorescent dye. In palisade mesophyll cells damaged by rapid temperature decrease, the cytosolic pH decreased and the vacuolar membrane collapsed soon after a temperature decrease. In isolated chloroplasts, chlorophyll fluorescence declined when the pH of the medium was lowered. These results suggest that a rapid temperature decrease directly or indirectly affects the vacuolar membrane, resulting in a pH change in the cytosol that subsequently affects the chloroplasts in palisade mesophyll cells. We further confirmed that the same physiological damage occurs in other Gesneriaceae plants. These results strongly suggested that the vacuoles of palisade mesophyll cells collapsed during the initial phase of leaf injury. PMID:23451194

Daily intermittent decreases in serum levels of parathyroid hormone have an anabolic-like action on the bones of uremic rats with low-turnover bone and osteomalacia.

PubMed

Ishii, H; Wada, M; Furuya, Y; Nagano, N; Nemeth, E F; Fox, J

2000-02-01

The calcium receptor agonist (calcimimetic) compound NPS R-568 causes rapid decreases in circulating levels of parathyroid hormone (PTH) in rats and humans. We hypothesized that daily intermittent decreases in serum PTH levels may have different effects on bone than do chronically sustained decreases. To test this hypothesis, we compared two NPS R-568 dosing regimens in rats with chronic renal insufficiency induced by two intravenous injections of adriamycin. Fourteen weeks after the second adriamycin injection, creatinine clearance was reduced by 52%, PTH levels were elevated approximately 2.5-fold, and serum 25(OH)D3 and 1,25(OH)2D3 levels were reduced substantially. Treatment by daily per os gavage, which decreased PTH levels intermittently, or continuous subcutaneous infusion, which resulted in a sustained suppression of serum PTH levels, then began for 8 weeks. Despite the hyperparathyroidism, the adriamycin-injected rats developed a low-turnover bone lesion with osteomalacia (fourfold increase in osteoid volume in the proximal tibial metaphysis) and osteopenia (67% decrease in cancellous bone volume and an 18% reduction in bone mineral density at the distal femur). Daily administered (but not infused) NPS R-568 significantly increased cancellous bone volume solely by normalizing trabecular thickness, and increased femoral bone mineral density by 14%. These results indicate that daily intermittent, but not sustained, decreases in PTH levels have an "anabolic-like" effect on bones with a low-turnover lesion in this animal model of chronic renal insufficiency.

Viral dynamics in primary HIV-1 infection. Karolinska Institutet Primary HIV Infection Study Group.

PubMed

Lindbäck, S; Karlsson, A C; Mittler, J; Blaxhult, A; Carlsson, M; Briheim, G; Sönnerborg, A; Gaines, H

2000-10-20

To study the natural course of viremia during primary HIV infection (PHI). Eight patients were followed from a median of 5 days from the onset of PHI illness. Plasma HIV-1 RNA levels were measured frequently and the results were fitted to mathematical models. HIV-1 RNA levels were also monitored in nine patients given two reverse transcriptase inhibitors and a protease inhibitor after a median of 7 days from the onset of PHI illness. HIV-1 RNA appeared in the blood during the week preceding onset of PHI illness and increased rapidly during the first viremic phase, reaching a peak at a mean of 7 days after onset of illness. This was followed by a phase of rapidly decreasing levels of HIV-1 RNA to an average of 21 days after onset. Viral density continued to decline thereafter but at a 5- to 50-fold lower rate; a steady-state level was reached at a median of 2 months after onset of PHI. Peak viral density levels correlated significantly with levels measured between days 50 and 600. Initiation of antiretroviral treatment during PHI resulted in rapidly declining levels to below 50 copies/mL. This study demonstrates the kinetic phases of viremia during PHI and indicates two new contributions to the natural history of HIV-1 infection: PHI peak levels correlate with steady-state levels and HIV-1 RNA declines biphasically; an initial rapid decay is usually followed by a slow decay, which is similar to the initial changes seen with antiviral treatment.

Gene expression of regulatory enzymes of glycolysis/gluconeogenesis in regenerating rat liver.

PubMed Central

Rosa, J L; Bartrons, R; Tauler, A

1992-01-01

Levels of mRNA for glucokinase, L-pyruvate kinase, fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase and phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase were analysed during liver regeneration. Levels of mRNA for glycolytic enzymes (glucokinase and L-pyruvate kinase) decreased rapidly after partial hepatectomy. Glucokinase mRNA increased at 16-24 h, returning to normal values after this time. L-pyruvate kinase mRNA recovered control levels at 168 h. In contrast, phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase mRNA increased rapidly after liver resection and remained high during the regenerative process. However, the levels of fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase mRNA were not modified significantly. These results correlate with the reported increased rate of gluconeogenesis and changes in enzyme levels after partial hepatectomy. The effect of stress on the mRNA levels was also studied. All enzymes showed variations in their mRNA levels after the surgical stress. In general, the differences were more pronounced in regenerating liver than in sham-operated animals, being practically normalized at 24 h. Images Fig. 2. Fig. 3. PMID:1329724

ALS patients' regulatory T lymphocytes are dysfunctional, and correlate with disease progression rate and severity.

PubMed

Beers, David R; Zhao, Weihua; Wang, Jinghong; Zhang, Xiujun; Wen, Shixiang; Neal, Dan; Thonhoff, Jason R; Alsuliman, Abdullah S; Shpall, Elizabeth J; Rezvani, Katy; Appel, Stanley H

2017-03-09

Neuroinflammation is a pathological hallmark of ALS in both transgenic rodent models and patients, and is characterized by proinflammatory T lymphocytes and activated macrophages/microglia. In ALS mouse models, decreased regulatory T lymphocytes (Tregs) exacerbate the neuroinflammatory process, leading to accelerated motoneuron death and shortened survival; passive transfer of Tregs suppresses the neuroinflammation and prolongs survival. Treg numbers and FOXP3 expression are also decreased in rapidly progressing ALS patients. A key question is whether the marked neuroinflammation in ALS can be attributed to the impaired suppressive function of ALS Tregs in addition to their decreased numbers. To address this question, T lymphocyte proliferation assays were performed. Compared with control Tregs, ALS Tregs were less effective in suppressing responder T lymphocyte proliferation. Although both slowly and rapidly progressing ALS patients had dysfunctional Tregs, the greater the clinically assessed disease burden or the more rapidly progressing the patient, the greater the Treg dysfunction. Epigenetically, the percentage methylation of the Treg-specific demethylated region was greater in ALS Tregs. After in vitro expansion, ALS Tregs regained suppressive abilities to the levels of control Tregs, suggesting that autologous passive transfer of expanded Tregs might offer a novel cellular therapy to slow disease progression.

Dephosphorylation and inactivation of NPR2 guanylyl cyclase in granulosa cells contributes to the LH-induced decrease in cGMP that causes resumption of meiosis in rat oocytes

PubMed Central

Egbert, Jeremy R.; Shuhaibar, Leia C.; Edmund, Aaron B.; Van Helden, Dusty A.; Robinson, Jerid W.; Uliasz, Tracy F.; Baena, Valentina; Geerts, Andreas; Wunder, Frank; Potter, Lincoln R.; Jaffe, Laurinda A.

2014-01-01

In mammals, the meiotic cell cycle of oocytes starts during embryogenesis and then pauses. Much later, in preparation for fertilization, oocytes within preovulatory follicles resume meiosis in response to luteinizing hormone (LH). Before LH stimulation, the arrest is maintained by diffusion of cyclic (c)GMP into the oocyte from the surrounding granulosa cells, where it is produced by the guanylyl cyclase natriuretic peptide receptor 2 (NPR2). LH rapidly reduces the production of cGMP, but how this occurs is unknown. Here, using rat follicles, we show that within 10 min, LH signaling causes dephosphorylation and inactivation of NPR2 through a process that requires the activity of phosphoprotein phosphatase (PPP)-family members. The rapid dephosphorylation of NPR2 is accompanied by a rapid phosphorylation of the cGMP phosphodiesterase PDE5, an enzyme whose activity is increased upon phosphorylation. Later, levels of the NPR2 agonist C-type natriuretic peptide decrease in the follicle, and these sequential events contribute to the decrease in cGMP that causes meiosis to resume in the oocyte. PMID:25183874

Ketamine rapidly relieves acute suicidal ideation in cancer patients: a randomized controlled clinical trial.

PubMed

Fan, Wei; Yang, HaiKou; Sun, Yong; Zhang, Jun; Li, Guangming; Zheng, Ying; Liu, Yi

2017-01-10

This study was designed to examine the rapid antidepressant effects of single dose ketamine on suicidal ideation and overall depression level in patients with newly-diagnosed cancer. Forty-two patients were enrolled into the controlled trial and randomized into two groups: ketamine group and midazolam group. Patients from the two groups received a sub-anesthetic dose of racemic ketamine hydrochloride or midazolam. Suicidal ideation score, measured with the Beck Scale and suicidal part of the Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale, significantly decreased on day 1 and day 3 in ketamine-treated patients when compared to those treated with midazolam. Consistently, overall depression levels measured using the Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale indicated a significant relief of overall depression on day 1 in ketamine-treated patients. Collectively, this study provides novel information about the rapid antidepressant effect of ketamine on acute depression and suicidal ideation in newly-diagnosed cancer patients.

Aging affects neural precision of speech encoding

PubMed Central

Anderson, Samira; Parbery-Clark, Alexandra; White-Schwoch, Travis; Kraus, Nina

2012-01-01

Older adults frequently report they can hear what is said but cannot understand the meaning, especially in noise. This difficulty may arise from the inability to process rapidly changing elements of speech. Aging is accompanied by a general slowing of neural processing and decreased neural inhibition, both of which likely interfere with temporal processing in auditory and other sensory domains. Age-related reductions in inhibitory neurotransmitter levels and delayed neural recovery can contribute to decreases in the auditory system’s temporal precision. Decreased precision may lead to neural timing delays, reductions in neural response magnitude, and a disadvantage in processing the rapid acoustic changes in speech. The auditory brainstem response (ABR), a scalp-recorded electrical potential, is known for its ability to capture precise neural synchrony within subcortical auditory nuclei; therefore, we hypothesized that a loss of temporal precision results in subcortical timing delays and decreases in response consistency and magnitude. To assess this hypothesis, we recorded ABRs to the speech syllable /da/ in normal hearing younger (ages 18 to 30) and older adult humans (60 to 67). Older adults had delayed ABRs, especially in response to the rapidly changing formant transition, and greater response variability. We also found that older adults had decreased phase locking and smaller response magnitudes than younger adults. Taken together, our results support the theory that older adults have a loss of temporal precision in subcortical encoding of sound, which may account, at least in part, for their difficulties with speech perception. PMID:23055485

Trends in the lake trout fishery of Lake Huron through 1946

USGS Publications Warehouse

Hile, Ralph

1949-01-01

The estimated abundance of lake trout in the United States waters of Lake Huron (all districts combined) had reached an extremely low level in 1946 (24 percent of the 1929–1943 average), and the complete collapse of the fishery in late years is a matter of record. The rate of decline in abundance, however, was much less rapid than the spectacular decreases in production might suggest. Although each year beginning with 1940 saw a new record low yield, the abundance was still 87 percent of average in 1942 and did not drop below 70 percent until 1944. This seeming paradox is explained by the fact that relative to average conditions, fishing intensity in 1941–1946 was lower and was decreasing much more rapidly than was abundance. PDF

Differential changes in Substance P, VIP as well as neprilysin levels in patients with gastritis or ulcer.

PubMed

Erin, Nuray; Türker, Sema; Elpek, Ozlem; Yıldırım, Bülent

2012-06-01

The protective effect of capsaicin-sensitive sensory nerve (CSSN) activation was recently demonstrated in human gastric mucosa. We here examined changes in neuropeptides, specifically Substance P (SP), calcitonin-gene related peptide (CGRP) and vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) in patients with chronic gastritis or ulcer. Furthermore changes in neprilysin levels, which hydrolyse these neuropeptides, were determined. Gastric biopsies were obtained from both lesion- and normal-appearing mucosa of 57 patients. The presence of H. pylori infection was verified with rapid urease assay. Neuronal and non-neuronal levels of SP, VIP, CGRP and neprilysin activity were determined in freshly frozen biopsies. Immunohistochemical localization of neprilysin was performed in 30 paraffin embedded specimens. We here found that neuronal SP levels decreased significantly in normally appearing mucosa of patients with gastritis while levels of non-neuronal SP increased in diseased areas of gastritis and ulcer. The presence of H. pylori led to further decreases of SP levels. The content of VIP in both disease-involved and uninvolved mucosa, and expression of neprilysin, markedly decreased in patients with gastritis or ulcer. Since VIP, as well as SP fragments, formed following hydrolysis with neprilysin is recognized to have gastroprotective effects, decreased levels of VIP, SP and neprilysin may predispose to cellular damage. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Dynamic microvesicle release and clearance within the cardiovascular system: triggers and mechanisms.

PubMed

Ayers, Lisa; Nieuwland, Rienk; Kohler, Malcolm; Kraenkel, Nicolle; Ferry, Berne; Leeson, Paul

2015-12-01

Interest in cell-derived microvesicles (or microparticles) within cardiovascular diagnostics and therapeutics is rapidly growing. Microvesicles are often measured in the circulation at a single time point. However, it is becoming clear that microvesicle levels both increase and decrease rapidly in response to certain stimuli such as hypoxia, acute cardiac stress, shear stress, hypertriglyceridaemia and inflammation. Consequently, the levels of circulating microvesicles will reflect the balance between dynamic mechanisms for release and clearance. The present review describes the range of triggers currently known to lead to microvesicle release from different cellular origins into the circulation. Specifically, the published data are used to summarize the dynamic impact of these triggers on the degree and rate of microvesicle release. Secondly, a summary of the current understanding of microvesicle clearance via different cellular systems, including the endothelial cell and macrophage, is presented, based on reported studies of clearance in experimental models and clinical scenarios, such as transfusion or cardiac stress. Together, this information can be used to provide insights into potential underlying biological mechanisms that might explain the increases or decreases in circulating microvesicle levels that have been reported and help to design future clinical studies. © 2015 Authors; published by Portland Press Limited.

Changes in insecticide resistance of the rice striped stem borer (Lepidoptera: Crambidae).

PubMed

Su, Jianya; Zhang, Zhenzhen; Wu, Min; Gao, Congfen

2014-02-01

Application of insecticides is the most important method to control Chilo suppressalis (Walker) (Lepidoptera: Crambidae), and continuous use of individual insecticides has driven the rapid development of insecticide resistance in C. suppressalis during the past 30 yr. Monitoring insecticide resistance provides information essential for integrated pest management. Insecticide resistance of field populations to monosultap, triazophos, chlorpyrifos, and abamectin in China was examined in 2010 and 2011. The results indicated that the resistance levels of 14 field populations to four insecticides were significantly different. Four populations showed moderate resistance, and other populations possessed low-level resistance or were susceptible to monosultap. Nine populations displayed an extremely high or a high level of resistance to triazophos, whereas four populations were sensitive to this agent. Five populations exhibited a low level of resistance to abamectin, while the others remained sensitive. When compared with historical data, resistance to monosultap and triazophos decreased significantly, and the percentage of populations with high-level or extremely high-level resistance was obviously reduced. By contrast, the resistance to abamectin increased slightly. The increasing and decreasing resistance levels reported in this study highlight the different evolutionary patterns of insecticide resistance in C. suppressalis. An overreliance on one or two insecticides may promote rapid development of resistance. Slow development of resistance to abamectin, which was used mainly in mixtures with other insecticides, implies that the use of insecticide mixtures may be an effective method to delay the evolution of resistance to insecticides.

The effect of pre-storage cooling on 2,3-DPG levels in red cells stored in SAG-M.

PubMed

Llohn, Abid Hussain; Vetlesen, Annette; Fagerhol, Magne Kristoffer; Kjeldsen-Kragh, Jens

2005-10-01

The concentration of red cell 2,3-DPG (2,3-diphosphoglycerate) rapidly decreases during storage. A favourable effect on red cell 2,3-DPG has been demonstrated by rapid cooling of whole blood prior to storage. In our study we have investigated how different methods of cooling whole blood immediately after donation effect 2,3-DPG levels during storage. Thirty-six whole blood units (in 6 groups) of 450 ml were collected in 63 ml CPD. SAG-M was used as preservative solution for red cell concentrates (RCC). The units in one group were cooled down at ambient temperature, while units in the other groups were cooled down rapidly by different ways immediately after bleeding. Samples from the whole blood units were collected at various days during storage for 2,3-DPG measurements. The decline in 2,3-DPG during the first two weeks of storage was significantly slower in the groups which were cooled down rapidly to 17-18 degrees C within 1h after bleeding (all p

Oral choline decreases brain purine levels in lithium-treated subjects with rapid-cycling bipolar disorder: a double-blind trial using proton and lithium magnetic resonance spectroscopy.

PubMed

Lyoo, In Kyoon; Demopulos, Christina M; Hirashima, Fuyuki; Ahn, Kyung Heup; Renshaw, Perry F

2003-08-01

Oral choline administration has been reported to increase brain phosphatidylcholine levels. As phospholipid synthesis for maintaining membrane integrity in mammalian brain cells consumes approximately 10-15% of the total adenosine triphosphate (ATP) pool, an increased availability of brain choline may lead to an increase in ATP consumption. Given reports of genetic studies, which suggest mitochondrial dysfunction, and phosphorus (31P) magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) studies, which report dysfunction in high-energy phosphate metabolism in patients with bipolar disorder, the current study is designed to evaluate the role of oral choline supplementation in modifying high-energy phosphate metabolism in subjects with bipolar disorder. Eight lithium-treated patients with DSM-IV bipolar disorder, rapid cycling type were randomly assigned to 50 mg/kg/day of choline bitartrate or placebo for 12 weeks. Brain purine, choline and lithium levels were assessed using 1H- and 7Li-MRS. Patients received four to six MRS scans, at baseline and weeks 2, 3, 5, 8, 10 and 12 of treatment (n = 40 scans). Patients were assessed using the Clinical Global Impression Scale (CGIS), the Young Mania Rating Scale (YRMS) and the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS) at each MRS scan. There were no significant differences in change-from-baseline measures of CGIS, YMRS, and HDRS, brain choline/creatine ratios, and brain lithium levels over a 12-week assessment period between the choline and placebo groups or within each group. However, the choline treatment group showed a significant decrease in purine metabolite ratios from baseline (purine/n-acetyl aspartate: coef = -0.08, z = -2.17, df = 22, p = 0.030; purine/choline: coef = -0.12, z = -1.97, df = 22, p = 0.049) compared to the placebo group, controlling for brain lithium level changes. Brain lithium level change was not a significant predictor of purine ratios. The current study reports that oral choline supplementation resulted in a significant decrease in brain purine levels over a 12-week treatment period in lithium-treated patients with DSM-IV bipolar disorder, rapid-cycling type, which may be related to the anti-manic effects of adjuvant choline. This result is consistent with mitochondrial dysfunction in bipolar disorder inadequately meeting the demand for increased ATP production as exogenous oral choline administration increases membrane phospholipid synthesis.

Erythrocytapheresis compared with whole blood phlebotomy for the treatment of hereditary haemochromatosis

PubMed Central

Sundic, Tatjana; Hervig, Tor; Hannisdal, Signe; Assmus, Jörg; Ulvik, Rune J.; Olaussen, Richard W.; Berentsen, Sigbjørn

2014-01-01

Background Hereditary haemochromatosis may result in severe organ damage which can be prevented by therapy. We studied the possible advantages and disadvantages of erythrocytapheresis as compared with phlebotomy in patients with hereditary haemochromatosis. Materials and methods In a prospective, randomised, open-label study, patients with hereditary haemochromatosis were randomised to bi-weekly apheresis or weekly whole blood phlebotomy. Primary end-points were decrease in ferritin levels and transferrin saturation. Secondary endpoints were decrease in haemoglobin levels, discomfort during the therapeutic procedure, costs and technicians’ working time. Results Sixty-two patients were included. Thirty patients were randomised to apheresis and 32 to whole blood phlebotomy. Initially, ferritin levels declined more rapidly in the apheresis group, and the difference became statistically highly significant at 11 weeks; however, time to normalisation of ferritin level was equal in the two groups. We observed no significant differences in decline of transferrin saturation, haemoglobin levels or discomfort. The mean cumulative technician time consumption until the ferritin level reached 50 μg/L was longer in the apheresis group, but the difference was not statistically significant. The cumulative costs for materials until achievement of the desired ferritin levels were three-fold higher in the apheresis group. Conclusion Treatment of hereditary haemochromatosis with erythrocytapheresis instead of whole blood phlebotomy results in a more rapid initial decline in ferritin levels and a reduced number of procedures per patient, but not in earlier achievement of target ferritin level. The frequency of discomfort was equally low with the two methods. The costs and, probably, technician time consumption were higher in the apheresis group. PMID:24333062

Reducing health inequalities with interventions targeting behavioral factors among individuals with low levels of education - A rapid review.

PubMed

Vilhelmsson, Andreas; Östergren, Per-Olof

2018-01-01

Individuals with low levels of education systematically have worse health than those with medium or high levels of education. Yet there are few examples of attempts to summarize the evidence supporting the efficacy of interventions targeting health-related behavior among individuals with low education levels, and a large part of the literature is descriptive rather than analytical. A rapid review was carried out to examine the impact of such interventions. Special attention was given to the relative impact of the interventions among individuals with low education levels and their potential to reduce health inequality. Of 1,365 articles initially identified, only 31 were deemed relevant for the review, and of those, nine met the inclusion and quality criteria. The comparability of included studies was limited due to differences in study design, sample characteristics, and definitions of exposure and outcome variables. Therefore, instead of performing a formal meta-analysis, an overall assessment of the available evidence was made and summarized into some general conclusions. We found no support for the notion that the methods used to reduce smoking decrease inequalities in health between educational groups. Evidence was also limited for decreasing inequality through interventions regarding dietary intake, physical activity and mental health. Only one study was found using an intervention designed to decrease socioeconomic inequalities by increasing the use of breast cancer screening. Thus, we concluded that there is a lack of support regarding this type of intervention as well. Therefore, the main conclusion is that solid evidence is lacking for interventions aimed at individual determinants of health and that more research is needed to fill this gap in knowledge.

Distribution of Metabolites between Chloroplast and Cytoplasm during the Induction Phase of Photosynthesis in Leaf Protoplasts 1

PubMed Central

Robinson, Simon P.; Walker, David A.

1980-01-01

A method for rapid separation of the chloroplast and cytoplasmic fractions from isolated leaf protoplasts of wheat and spinach has been used to determine the distribution of 14C-labeled products during photosynthesis. In the dark, CO2 fixation was only 1 to 2% of that in the light and the products were mainly in the cytoplasmic fraction suggesting fixation by phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase. Label appeared rapidly in the chloroplast fraction following illumination but the amount leveled off after 4 to 5 minutes reflecting the buildup of intermediates to steady state levels. There was only a slight lag before label appeared in the cytoplasmic fraction and it continued to increase at a constant rate reflecting synthesis of neutral products. In the light, the percentage of label in the chloroplast fraction decreased rapidly in the first minute of illumination and was only 10 to 20% in the steady-state. It is suggested that the chloroplast phosphate transporter promotes a rapid transfer of sugar phosphates from the chloroplast to the cytoplasm, even during the induction phase of photosynthesis. PMID:16661305

Behaviour of levee on softsoil caused by rapid drawdown

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Upomo, Togani Cahyadi; Effendi, Mahmud Kori; Kusumawardani, Rini

2018-03-01

Rapid Drawdown is a condition where the water elevation that has reached the peak suddenly drops. As the water level reaches the peak, hydrostatic pressure helps in the stability of the slope. When water elevation decreases there will be two effects. First, reduced hydrostatic pressure and second, modification of pore water pressure. Rapid draw down usually comon in hydraulic structure such as dam and levee. This study will discuss behaviour of levee on softsoil caused by rapid drawdown. The analysis based on method which developed by US Army Corps Engineer and modified method which developed by Duncan, Wright, dan Wong. Results of analysis show that in drawdown condition, at 1 m drop of water, safety factor obtained based on US Army Corps Engineer method was 1.16 and 0.976 while based on Duncan, Wright, and Wong methods were 1.244 and 1.117. At 0.5 m water level, safety factor based on US Army Corps Engineer method was 1.287 and 1.09 while Duncan, Wright, and Wong were 1.357 and 1.194.

Greater Efficacy of Total Thyroidectomy versus Radioiodine Therapy on Hyperthyroidism and Thyroid-Stimulating Immunoglobulin Levels in Patients with Graves' Disease Previously Treated with Antithyroid Drugs.

PubMed

Kautbally, Shakeel; Alexopoulou, Orsalia; Daumerie, Chantal; Jamar, François; Mourad, Michel; Maiter, Dominique

2012-07-01

We compared the effects of total thyroidectomy (TTx) and radioiodine (RAI) administration on the course of thyroid hormones and thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulins (TSI) in patients with Graves' disease. We retrospectively studied 80 patients initially treated with antithyroid drugs and requiring either RAI (8.3 ± 1.7 mCi of (131)I; n = 40) or TTx (n = 40) as second-line therapy. The TTx and RAI groups were not different, except for larger goiter, higher FT3 and more frequent Graves' orbitopathy at diagnosis in the surgery group (p < 0.05). A persistent remission of hyperthyroidism was observed in 97% of operated patients versus 73% of the RAI patients at 3 years (p < 0.01). TTx was followed by a rapid and steady decrease in TSI during the first 9 months, while a surge of antibodies was observed during the first 6 months after RAI, followed by a slow decrease over the next 18 months. At the last visit, high TSI levels were still observed in 18 and 60% of patients in the surgery and RAI groups, respectively (p < 0.001). TTx is more efficient than RAI to induce a rapid and permanent correction of hyperthyroidism and TSI decrease in patients previously treated with antithyroid drugs.

Gender and Age Effects on the Trajectory of Depression in Opioid Users during Methadone Maintenance Treatment.

PubMed

Wang, Peng-Wei; Lin, Huang-Chi; Yang, Yi-Hsin Connie; Hsu, Chih-Yao; Chung, Kuan-Sheng; Wu, Hung-Chi; Yen, Cheng-Fang

2017-01-01

Both heroin use and depression are significant health problems. Methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) can be of great benefit to heroin users. However, changes in the level of depression in heroin users during MMT are not clear. Gender and age are also important factors in the development of depression, and whether gender and age moderate changes in depression in heroin users during MMT warrants further study. This study aimed to explore: (1) the trajectory of depression in opioid users during MMT and (2) the moderating effects of gender and age on the trajectory of depression in opioid users receiving MMT. A total of 294 intravenous heroin users were recruited into this 9-month observational study. The level of depression was measured at the intake interview and at follow-up interviews every 3 months. A latent growth model was used to analyze the trajectory of the level of depression among the participants. Depression improved rapidly during the first 3 months of MMT and slowly after the first 3 months in both the female and male heroin users. There was no gender difference in the level of depression at each follow-up point. The level of depression in the female heroin users decreased faster than that in the male heroin users. In addition, the level of depression in the younger heroin users decreased faster than that in the older subjects. Depression in female and younger heroin users improved more rapidly than in male and older subjects, respectively.

Atrial overexpression of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 improves the canine rapid atrial pacing-induced structural and electrical remodeling. Fan, ACE2 improves atrial substrate remodeling.

PubMed

Fan, Jinqi; Zou, Lili; Cui, Kun; Woo, Kamsang; Du, Huaan; Chen, Shaojie; Ling, Zhiyu; Zhang, Quanjun; Zhang, Bo; Lan, Xianbin; Su, Li; Zrenner, Bernhard; Yin, Yuehui

2015-01-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate whether atrial overexpression of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) by homogeneous transmural atrial gene transfer can reverse atrial remodeling and its mechanisms in a canine atrial-pacing model. Twenty-eight mongrel dogs were randomly divided into four groups: Sham-operated, AF-control, gene therapy with adenovirus-enhanced green fluorescent protein (Ad-EGFP) and gene therapy with Ad-ACE2 (Ad-ACE2) (n = 7 per subgroup). AF was induced in all dogs except the Sham-operated group by rapid atrial pacing at 450 beats/min for 2 weeks. Ad-EGFP and Ad-ACE2 group then received epicardial gene painting. Three weeks after gene transfer, all animals except the Sham group underwent rapid atrial pacing for another 3 weeks and then invasive electrophysiological, histological and molecular studies. The Ad-ACE2 group showed an increased ACE2 and Angiotensin-(1-7) expression, and decreased Angiotensin II expression in comparison with Ad-EGFP and AF-control group. ACE2 overexpression attenuated rapid atrial pacing-induced increase in activated extracellular signal-regulated kinases and mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) levels, and decrease in MAPK phosphatase 1(MKP-1) level, resulting in attenuation of atrial fibrosis collagen protein markers and transforming growth factor-β1. Additionally, ACE2 overexpression also modulated the tachypacing-induced up-regulation of connexin 40, down-regulation of connexin 43 and Kv4.2, and significantly decreased the inducibility and duration of AF. ACE2 overexpression could shift the renin-angiotensin system balance towards the protective axis, attenuate cardiac fibrosis remodeling associated with up-regulation of MKP-1 and reduction of MAPKs activities, modulate tachypacing-induced ion channels and connexin remodeling, and subsequently reduce the inducibility and duration of AF.

Increasing importance of deposition of reduced nitrogen in the United States

Treesearch

Yi Li; Bret A. Schichtel; John T. Walker; Donna B. Schwede; Xi Chen; Christopher M. B. Lehmann; Melissa A. Puchalski; David A. Gay; Jeffrey L. Collett

2016-01-01

Rapid development of agriculture and fossil fuel combustion greatly increased US reactive nitrogen emissions to the atmosphere in the second half of the 20th century, resulting in excess nitrogen deposition to natural ecosystems. Recent efforts to lower nitrogen oxides emissions have substantially decreased nitrate wet deposition. Levels of wet ammonium...

A Handbook for Job Restructuring.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Phillips, J. Edmund; And Others

Rapid changes in the nation's economy have resulted in significant increases in the demand for workers in technical jobs but a significant decrease in the demand for unskilled workers. Unfortunately, the abilities of available manpower have not been developed to meet the requirements of jobs at the levels where the increased demands have occurred.…

Effectiveness of hemodialysis in a case of severe valproate overdose.

PubMed

Nasa, Prashant; Sehrawat, Deepak; Kansal, Sudha; Chawla, Rajesh

2011-04-01

A case of severe sodium valproate overdose is presented in which medicinal management failed to reverse coma of the patient. High-flux hemodialysis was then used to eliminate sodium valproate. This case demonstrated the effectiveness of hemodialysis in not only decreasing valproate levels very rapidly but also as an effective anti-coma management.

Effects of Acifluorfen on Endogenous Antioxidants and Protective Enzymes in Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) Cotyledons

PubMed Central

Kenyon, William H.; Duke, Stephen O.

1985-01-01

The herbicide acifluorfen (2-chloro-4-(trifluoromethyl)phenoxy-2-nitrobenzoate) causes strong photooxidative destruction of pigments and lipids in sensitive plant species. Antioxidants and oxygen radical scavengers slow the bleaching action of the herbicide. The effect of acifluorfen on glutathione and ascorbate levels in cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) cotyledon discs was investigated to assess the relationship between herbicide activity and endogenous antioxidants. Acifluorfen decreased the levels of glutathione and ascorbate over 50% in discs exposed to less than 1.5 hours of white light (450 microeinsteins per square meter per second). Coincident increases in dehydroascorbate and glutathione disulfide were not observed. Acifluorfen also caused the rapid depletion of ascorbate in far-red light grown plants which were photosynthetically incompetent. Glutathione reductase, dehydroascorbate reductase, superoxide dismutase, ascorbate oxidase, ascorbate free radical reductase, peroxidase, and catalase activities rapidly decreased in acifluorfen-treated tissue exposed to white light. None of the enzymes were inhibited in vitro by the herbicide. Acifluorfen causes irreversible photooxidative destruction of plant tissue, in part, by depleting endogenous antioxidants and inhibiting the activities of protective enzymes. PMID:16664506

ALS patients’ regulatory T lymphocytes are dysfunctional, and correlate with disease progression rate and severity

PubMed Central

Beers, David R.; Zhao, Weihua; Wang, Jinghong; Zhang, Xiujun; Wen, Shixiang; Neal, Dan; Thonhoff, Jason R.; Alsuliman, Abdullah S.; Shpall, Elizabeth J.; Rezvani, Katy

2017-01-01

Neuroinflammation is a pathological hallmark of ALS in both transgenic rodent models and patients, and is characterized by proinflammatory T lymphocytes and activated macrophages/microglia. In ALS mouse models, decreased regulatory T lymphocytes (Tregs) exacerbate the neuroinflammatory process, leading to accelerated motoneuron death and shortened survival; passive transfer of Tregs suppresses the neuroinflammation and prolongs survival. Treg numbers and FOXP3 expression are also decreased in rapidly progressing ALS patients. A key question is whether the marked neuroinflammation in ALS can be attributed to the impaired suppressive function of ALS Tregs in addition to their decreased numbers. To address this question, T lymphocyte proliferation assays were performed. Compared with control Tregs, ALS Tregs were less effective in suppressing responder T lymphocyte proliferation. Although both slowly and rapidly progressing ALS patients had dysfunctional Tregs, the greater the clinically assessed disease burden or the more rapidly progressing the patient, the greater the Treg dysfunction. Epigenetically, the percentage methylation of the Treg-specific demethylated region was greater in ALS Tregs. After in vitro expansion, ALS Tregs regained suppressive abilities to the levels of control Tregs, suggesting that autologous passive transfer of expanded Tregs might offer a novel cellular therapy to slow disease progression. PMID:28289705

Glucose rapidly decreases plasma membrane GLUT4 content in rat skeletal muscle.

PubMed

Marette, A; Dimitrakoudis, D; Shi, Q; Rodgers, C D; Klip, A; Vranic, M

1999-02-01

We have previously demonstrated that chronic hyperglycemia per se decreases GLUT4 glucose transporter expression and plasma membrane content in mildly streptozotocin- (STZ) diabetic rats (Biochem. J. 284, 341-348, 1992). In the present study, we investigated the effect of an acute rise in glycemia on muscle GLUT4 and GLUT1 protein contents in the plasma membrane, in the absence of insulin elevation. Four experimental groups of rats were analyzed in the postabsorptive state: 1. Control rats. 2. Hyperglycemic STZ-diabetic rats with moderately reduced fasting insulin levels. 3. STZ-diabetic rats made normoglycemic with phlorizin treatment. 4. Phlorizin-treated (normoglycemic) STZ-diabetic rats infused with glucose for 40 min. The uniqueness of the latter model is that glycemia can be rapidly raised without any concomitant increase in plasma insulin levels. Plasma membranes were isolated from hindlimb muscle and GLUT1 and GLUT4 proteins amounts determined by Western blot analysis. As predicted, STZ-diabetes caused a significant decrease in the abundance of GLUT4 in the isolated plasma membranes. Normalization of glycemia for 3 d with phlorizin treatment restored plasma membrane GLUT4 content in muscle of STZ-diabetic rats. A sudden rise in glycemia over a period of 40 min caused the GLUT4 levels in the plasma membrane fraction to decrease to those of nontreated STZ-diabetic rats. In contrast to the GLUT4 transporter, plasma membrane GLUT1 abundance was not changed by the acute glucose challenge. It is concluded that glucose can have regulatory effect by acutely reducing plasma membrane GLUT4 protein contents in rat skeletal muscle. We hypothesize that this glucose-induced downregulation of plasma membrane GLUT4 could represent a protective mechanism against excessive glucose uptake under hyperglycemic conditions accompanied by insulin resistance.

Efficacy of Metarhizium anisopliae isolate MAX-2 from Shangri-la, China under desiccation stress

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background Metarhizium anisopliae, a soil-borne entomopathogen found worldwide, is an interesting fungus for biological control. However, its efficacy in the fields is significantly affected by environmental conditions, particularly moisture. To overcome the weakness of Metarhizium and determine its isolates with antistress capacity, the efficacies of four M. anisopliae isolates, which were collected from arid regions of Yunnan Province in China during the dry season, were determined at different moisture levels, and the efficacy of the isolate MAX-2 from Shangri-la under desiccation stress was evaluated at low moisture level. Results M. anisopliae isolates MAX-2, MAC-6, MAL-1, and MAQ-28 showed gradient descent efficacies against sterile Tenebrio molitor larvae, and gradient descent capacities against desiccation with the decrease in moisture levels. The efficacy of MAX-2 showed no significant differences at 35% moisture level than those of the other isolates. However, significant differences were found at 8% to 30% moisture levels. The efficacies of all isolates decreased with the decrease in moisture levels. MAX-2 was relatively less affected by desiccation stress. Its efficacy was almost unaffected by the decrease at moisture levels > 25%, but slowly decreased at moisture levels < 25%. By contrast, the efficacies of other isolates rapidly decreased with the decrease in moisture levels. MAX-2 caused different infection characteristics on T. molitor larvae under desiccation stress and in wet microhabitat. Local black patches were found on the cuticles of the insects, and the cadavers dried without fungal growth under desiccation stress. However, dark black internodes and fungal growth were found after death of the insects in the wet microhabitat. Conclusions MAX-2 showed significantly higher efficacy and superior antistress capacity than the other isolates under desiccation stress. The infection of sterile T. molitor larvae at low moisture level constituted a valid laboratory bioassay system in evaluating M. anisopliae efficacy under desiccation stress. PMID:24383424

Efficacy of Metarhizium anisopliae isolate MAX-2 from Shangri-la, China under desiccation stress.

PubMed

Chen, Zi-Hong; Xu, Ling; Yang, Feng-lian; Ji, Guang-Hai; Yang, Jing; Wang, Jian-Yun

2014-01-03

Metarhizium anisopliae, a soil-borne entomopathogen found worldwide, is an interesting fungus for biological control. However, its efficacy in the fields is significantly affected by environmental conditions, particularly moisture. To overcome the weakness of Metarhizium and determine its isolates with antistress capacity, the efficacies of four M. anisopliae isolates, which were collected from arid regions of Yunnan Province in China during the dry season, were determined at different moisture levels, and the efficacy of the isolate MAX-2 from Shangri-la under desiccation stress was evaluated at low moisture level. M. anisopliae isolates MAX-2, MAC-6, MAL-1, and MAQ-28 showed gradient descent efficacies against sterile Tenebrio molitor larvae, and gradient descent capacities against desiccation with the decrease in moisture levels. The efficacy of MAX-2 showed no significant differences at 35% moisture level than those of the other isolates. However, significant differences were found at 8% to 30% moisture levels. The efficacies of all isolates decreased with the decrease in moisture levels. MAX-2 was relatively less affected by desiccation stress. Its efficacy was almost unaffected by the decrease at moisture levels > 25%, but slowly decreased at moisture levels < 25%. By contrast, the efficacies of other isolates rapidly decreased with the decrease in moisture levels. MAX-2 caused different infection characteristics on T. molitor larvae under desiccation stress and in wet microhabitat. Local black patches were found on the cuticles of the insects, and the cadavers dried without fungal growth under desiccation stress. However, dark black internodes and fungal growth were found after death of the insects in the wet microhabitat. MAX-2 showed significantly higher efficacy and superior antistress capacity than the other isolates under desiccation stress. The infection of sterile T. molitor larvae at low moisture level constituted a valid laboratory bioassay system in evaluating M. anisopliae efficacy under desiccation stress.

Vanishing point: Scale independence in geomorphological hierarchies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Phillips, Jonathan D.

2016-08-01

Scale linkage problems in geosciences are often associated with a hierarchy of components. Both dynamical systems perspectives and intuition suggest that processes or relationships operating at fundamentally different scales are independent with respect to influences on system dynamics. But how far apart is ;fundamentally different;-that is, what is the ;vanishing point; at which scales are no longer interdependent? And how do we reconcile that with the idea (again, supported by both theory and intuition) that we can work our way along scale hierarchies from microscale to planetary (and vice-versa)? Graph and network theory are employed here to address these questions. Analysis of two archetypal hierarchical networks shows low algebraic connectivity, indicating low levels of inferential synchronization. This explains the apparent paradox between scale independence and hierarchical linkages. Incorporating more hierarchical levels results in an increase in complexity or entropy of the network as a whole, but at a nonlinear rate. Complexity increases as a power α of the number of levels in the hierarchy, with α < 1 and usually ≤ 0.6. However, algebraic connectivity decreases at a more rapid rate. Thus, the ability to infer one part of the hierarchical network from other level decays rapidly as more levels are added. Relatedness among system components decreases with differences in scale or resolution, analogous to distance decay in the spatial domain. These findings suggest a strategy of identifying and focusing on the most important or interesting scale levels, rather than attempting to identify the smallest or largest scale levels and work top-down or bottom-up from there. Examples are given from soil geomorphology and karst flow networks.

JP-8 jet fuel exposure rapidly induces high levels of IL-10 and PGE2 secretion and is correlated with loss of immune function.

PubMed

Harris, David T; Sakiestewa, Debbie; Titone, Dominic; Witten, Mark

2007-05-01

The US Air Force has implemented the widespread use of JP-8 jet fuel in its operations, although a thorough understanding of its potential effects upon exposed personnel is unclear. Previous work has demonstrated that JP-8 exposure is immunosuppressive. In the present study, the potential mechanisms for the effects of JP-8 exposure on the immune system were investigated. Exposure of mice to JP-8 for 1 h/day resulted in immediate secretion of two immunosuppressive agents; namely, interleukin-10 (IL-10) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2). JP-8 exposure rapidly induced a persistently high level of serum IL-10 and PGE2 at an exposure concentration of 1000 mg/m3. IL-10 levels peaked at 2 h post-JP-8 exposure and then stabilized at significantly elevated serum levels, while PGE2 levels peaked after 2-3 days of exposure and then stabilized. Elevated IL-10 and PGE2 levels may at least partially explain the effects of JP-8 exposure on immune function. Elevated IL-10 and PGE2 levels, however, cannot explain all of the effects due to JP-8 exposure (e.g., decreased organ weights and decreased viable immune cells), as treatment with a PGE2 inhibitor did not completely reverse the immunosuppressive effects of jet fuel exposure. Thus, low concentration JP-8 jet fuel exposures have significant effects on the immune system, which can be partially explained by the secretion of immunosuppressive modulators, which are cumulative over time.

Considering Valproate as a Risk Factor for Rapid Exacerbation of Complex Movement Disorder in Progressed Stages of Late-Infantile CLN2 Disease.

PubMed

Johannsen, Jessika; Nickel, Miriam; Schulz, Angela; Denecke, Jonas

2016-06-01

Neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis type 2 (CLN2 disease, OMIM 204500) is a rare autosomal-recessive lysosomal storage disorder. It is one of the most common neurodegenerative disorders in childhood. Symptoms include epilepsy, rapid motor and language regression, dementia, visual loss, and a complex movement disorder in later stages of the disease. We report on two children with genetically confirmed late-infantile CLN2 disease who developed a severe exacerbation of their complex movement disorder leading to hyperthermia, hyper-CK-emia and decreased level of consciousness over several weeks despite different therapeutic approaches. Both patients were on long-term antiepileptic treatment with valproate and only after the withdrawal of valproate, the movement disorder disappeared and level of consciousness improved. These observations emphasize that valproate has to be considered as a possible risk factor in patients in later stages of late-infantile CLN2 disease who develop a rapidly progressive complex movement disorder. Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

Hyperglycemia of Diabetic Rats Decreased by a Glucagon Receptor Antagonist

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Johnson, David G.; Ulichny Goebel, Camy; Hruby, Victor J.; Bregman, Marvin D.; Trivedi, Dev

1982-02-01

The glucagon analog [l-Nα-trinitrophenylhistidine, 12-homoarginine]-glucagon (THG) was examined for its ability to lower blood glucose concentrations in rats made diabetic with streptozotocin. In vitro, THG is a potent antagonist of glucagon activation of the hepatic adenylate cyclase assay system. Intravenous bolus injections of THG caused rapid decreases (20 to 35 percent) of short duration in blood glucose. Continuous infusion of low concentrations of the inhibitor led to larger sustained decreases in blood glucose (30 to 65 percent). These studies demonstrate that a glucagon receptor antagonist can substantially reduce blood glucose levels in diabetic animals without addition of exogenous insulin.

A pooled analysis of CYP2D6 genotype in breast cancer prevention trials of low-dose tamoxifen.

PubMed

Johansson, Harriet; Gandini, Sara; Serrano, Davide; Gjerde, Jennifer; Lattanzi, Monia; Macis, Debora; Guerrieri-Gonzaga, Aliana; Aristarco, Valentina; Mellgren, Gunnar; Lien, Ernst; DeCensi, Andrea; Bonanni, Bernardo

2016-08-01

Decreased CYP2D6 activity is associated with lower levels of active tamoxifen metabolites. We examined the impact of CYP2D6 genotype on tamoxifen pharmacokinetics, biomarker activity, and efficacy in a pooled analysis of low-dose tamoxifen. Four randomized breast cancer prevention trials of very-low-dose (1 mg/day, n = 52 or 10 mg/week, n = 152) or low-dose tamoxifen (5 mg/day, n = 171) were pooled. DNA from 367 subjects was genotyped for CYP2D6 alleles associated with absent (PM allele: *3, *4, *5, *6, *7, *8, *12, and *14), reduced (IM allele: *9, *10, *17, *29, *41), normal (EM allele), or increased (UM: *XN) enzyme activity. Associations of tamoxifen, metabolites, activity biomarkers, and event-free survival with rapid (UM/EM, UM/IM, EM/EM, EM/IM, or EM/PM alleles) versus slow metabolizers (PM/IM or PM/PM) were investigated through random effects models, with 'study' as the random factor, and Cox regression models, adjusting for confounders. Rapid metabolizers had higher endoxifen levels than slow metabolizers: 15.3 versus 12.2 ng/mL (P = 0.018) with 5 mg/day, and 3.8 versus 2.8 ng/mL (P = 0.004) with 1 mg/day or 10 mg/week tamoxifen. The IGF-I decrease correlated with endoxifen (P = 0.002) and 4-hydroxytamoxifen levels, demonstrating steeper decreases at higher metabolite levels (P = 0.001). After a median follow-up of 12 years, rapid metabolizers with prior history of breast neoplasms allocated to tamoxifen 5 mg/day had a 60 % reduction of risk of recurrences (HR = 0.40, 95 % CI: 0.16-0.99) compared to slow metabolizers. CYP2D6 genotype may have an impact on tamoxifen efficacy at low doses. Trials investigating tamoxifen dose adjustments based on the woman's hormonal context and CYP2D6 genotype are warranted.

Interstitial pH, K(+), lactate, and phosphate determined with MSNA during exercise in humans

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

MacLean, D. A.; Imadojemu, V. A.; Sinoway, L. I.

2000-01-01

The purpose of the present study was to use the microdialysis technique to simultaneously measure the interstitial concentrations of several putative stimulators of the exercise pressor reflex during 5 min of intermittent static quadriceps exercise in humans (n = 7). Exercise resulted in approximately a threefold (P < 0.05) increase in muscle sympathetic nerve activity (MSNA) and 13 +/- 3 beats/min (P < 0.05) and 20 +/- 2 mmHg (P < 0.05) increases in heart rate and blood pressure, respectively. During recovery, all reflex responses quickly returned to baseline. Interstitial lactate levels were increased (P < 0.05) from rest (1.1 +/- 0.1 mM) to exercise (1. 6 +/- 0.2 mM) and were further increased (P < 0.05) during recovery (2.0 +/- 0.2 mM). Dialysate phosphate concentrations were 0.55 +/- 0. 04, 0.71 +/- 0.05, and 0.48 +/- 0.03 mM during rest, exercise, and recovery, respectively, and were significantly elevated during exercise. At the onset of exercise, dialysate K(+) levels rose rapidly above resting values (4.2 +/- 0.1 meq/l) and continued to increase during the exercise bout. After 5 min of contractions, dialysate K(+) levels had peaked with an increase (P < 0.05) of 0.6 +/- 0.1 meq/l and subsequently decreased during recovery, not being different from rest after 3 min. In contrast, H(+) concentrations rapidly decreased (P < 0.05) from resting levels (69.4 +/- 3.7 nM) during quadriceps exercise and continued to decrease with a mean decline (P < 0.05) of 16.7 +/- 3.8 nM being achieved after 5 min. During recovery, H(+) concentrations rapidly increased and were not significantly different from baseline after 1 min. This study represents the first time that skeletal muscle interstitial pH, K(+), lactate, and phosphate have been measured in conjunction with MSNA, heart rate, and blood pressure during intermittent static quadriceps exercise in humans. These data suggest that interstitial K(+) and phosphate, but not lactate and H(+), may contribute to the stimulation of the exercise pressor reflex.

Endogenous GABA levels in the pontine reticular formation are greater during wakefulness than during REM sleep

PubMed Central

Vanini, Giancarlo; Wathen, Bradley L.; Lydic, Ralph; Baghdoyan, Helen A.

2011-01-01

Studies using drugs that increase or decrease GABAergic transmission suggest that GABA in the pontine reticular formation (PRF) promotes wakefulness and inhibits rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. Cholinergic transmission in the PRF promotes REM sleep, and levels of endogenous acetylcholine (ACh) in the PRF are significantly greater during REM sleep than during wakefulness or non-REM (NREM) sleep. No previous studies have determined whether levels of endogenous GABA in the PRF vary as a function of sleep and wakefulness. This study tested the hypothesis that GABA levels in cat PRF are greatest during wakefulness and lowest during REM sleep. Extracellular GABA levels were measured during wakefulness, NREM sleep, REM sleep, and the REM sleep-like state (REMNeo) caused by microinjecting neostigmine into the PRF. GABA levels varied significantly as a function of sleep and wakefulness, and decreased significantly below waking levels during REM sleep (−42%) and REMNeo (−63%). The decrease in GABA levels during NREM sleep (22% below waking levels) was not statistically significant. Compared to NREM sleep, GABA levels decreased significantly during REM sleep (−27%) and REMNeo (−52%). Comparisons of REM sleep and REMNeo revealed no differences in GABA levels or cortical EEG power. GABA levels did not vary significantly as a function of dialysis site within the PRF. The inverse relationship between changes in PRF levels of GABA and ACh during REM sleep indicates that low GABAergic tone combined with high cholinergic tone in the PRF contributes to the generation of REM sleep. PMID:21325533

Tumor Necrosis Factor Antagonism Normalizes Rapid Eye Movement Sleep in Alcohol Dependence

PubMed Central

Irwin, Michael R.; Olmstead, Richard; Valladares, Edwin M.; Breen, Elizabeth Crabb; Ehlers, Cindy L.

2009-01-01

Background In alcohol dependence, markers of inflammation are associated with increases in rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, which is thought to be a prognostic indicator of alcohol relapse. This study was undertaken to test whether blockade of biologically active tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) normalizes REM sleep in alcohol-dependent adults. Methods In a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, crossover trial, 18 abstinent alcohol-dependent male adults received a single dose of etanercept (25 mg) versus placebo in a counterbalanced order. Polysomnographic sleep was measured at baseline and for 3 nights after the acute dose of etanercept or placebo. Results Compared with placebo, administration of etanercept produced significant decreases in the amount and percentage of REM sleep. Decreases in REM sleep were robust and approached low levels typically found in age-comparable control subjects. Individual differences in biologically active drug as indexed by circulating levels of soluble tumor necrosis factor receptor II negatively correlated with the percentage of REM sleep. Conclusions Pharmacologic neutralization of TNF-α activity is associated with significant reductions in REM sleep in abstinent alcohol-dependent patients. These data suggest that circulating levels of TNF-α may have a physiologic role in the regulation of REM sleep in humans. PMID:19185287

A Safety and Efficacy Study of Tolvaptan Following Open Heart Surgery in 109 Cases.

PubMed

Kono, Takanori; Tayama, Eiki; Hori, Hidetsugu; Ueda, Tomohiro; Yamaki, Yuta; Tanaka, Hiroyuki

2016-07-27

This study was conducted to evaluate the safety and efficacy of tolvaptan following open heart surgery.We retrospectively reviewed 109 patients who were administered tolvaptan following open heart surgery between August 2011 and July 2014. We divided the patients according to their urine output index (amount of urine output/body surface area) into tertiles as follows: T1 (low responders; n = 36), T2 (intermediate responders; n = 36), and T3 (high responders; n = 37). No fatal adverse events were observed following tolvaptan administration. The factors that showed a significant difference among the 3 groups were body surface area (BSA) and preoperative body weight. Body weight rapidly decreased and a greater increase in the serum sodium level was observed on day 1 in the T3 group than in the other 2 groups. No decrease in blood pressure and no significant differences in the occurrence of atrial fibrillation were observed among the 3 groups during tolvaptan administration.Tolvaptan can be safely and effectively administered to increase the urine output without adversely affecting the cardiovascular system or renal function following open heart surgery. However, careful attention is required regarding the possibility of a rapid increase in the serum sodium level so it is important to monitor changes in serum Na levels.

Spontaneous rectus sheath hematoma: The utility of CT angiography.

PubMed

Pierro, Antonio; Cilla, Savino; Modugno, Pietro; Centritto, Enrico Maria; De Filippo, Carlo Maria; Sallustio, Giuseppina

2018-04-01

We described the utility of computed tomography (CT) angiography in detection of bleeding vessels for a rapid percutaneous arterial embolization of the spontaneous rectus sheath hematoma. A 70-year-old woman comes to our attention with acute abdominal pain and a low hemoglobin level. An unenhanced CT was performed demonstrating a large rectus sheath hematoma. A conservative management was initially established. Despite this therapy, the abdominal pain increased together with a further decrease of hemoglobin values. A CT angiography was then performed, demonstrating an active bleeding within the hematoma and addressing the patient to a rapid percutaneous arterial embolization.

Rapid corticosteroid-dependent regulation of mineralocorticoid receptor protein expression in rat brain.

PubMed

Kalman, Brian A; Spencer, Robert L

2002-11-01

Corticosteroid hormones regulate many aspects of neural function via mineralocorticoid receptors (MR) and glucocorticoid receptors (GR). Although GR expression is negatively regulated by endogenous corticosteroids, the autologous regulation of MR expression has been less well studied, partly due to limitations of receptor binding assays that cannot measure the ligand-activated form of MR. Using MR-reactive antibodies and Western blot, we examined relative MR protein expression in rat brain and its potential autoregulation by corticosteroids. We found that MR protein expression is autoregulated in a negative fashion by adrenal steroids. Compared with GR, we see a more rapid regulation of MR, such that there is a substantial increase in MR protein within 12 h after adrenalectomy, whereas GR levels show very little increase until more than 24 h after adrenalectomy. Also, in contrast to GR, which has been found to be regulated by both MR and GR, adrenalectomy-induced increase in MR was prevented by treatment with the MR selective agonist, aldosterone, but not the GR selective agonist, RU28362. Interestingly, acute treatment of adrenalectomized rats with corticosterone produced a significant decrease in whole-cell MR protein within 45 min, suggesting ligand-induced rapid degradation of MR. Chronic high levels of corticosterone also produced a significant decrease in MR protein levels below adrenal-intact rat levels. These results have important implications for previous studies that estimated the proportion of MR that are occupied in vivo by various circulating levels of corticosterone. Those studies compared available MR binding levels in adrenal-intact rats with 24-h adrenalectomized rats, with the assumption that there were no differences between the various conditions in total receptor expression. Those studies concluded that MR is nearly fully occupied by even the lowest circulating corticosterone levels. Given the 2- to 3-fold increase in MR protein that we have observed within 24 h after adrenalectomy, it is likely that those studies significantly overestimated the proportion of MR that were occupied by low basal corticosterone levels. These results support the prospect that MR as well as GR can participate in the transduction of phasic corticosteroid signals.

Non-invasive method to detect the changes of glucose concentration in whole blood using photometric technique.

PubMed

Rajan, Shiny Amala Priya; Towe, Bruce C

2014-01-01

A non-invasive method is developed to monitor rapid changes in blood glucose levels in diabetic patients. The system depends on an optical cell built with a LED that emits light of wavelength 535nm, which is a peak absorbance of hemoglobin. As the glucose concentration in blood decreases, its osmolarity also decreases and the Red Blood Cells (RBCs) swell and decrease the path length absorption coefficient. Decreasing absorption coefficient increases the transmission of light through the whole blood. The system was tested with a constructed optical cell that held whole blood in a capillary tube. As expected the light transmitted to the photodiode increases with decreasing glucose concentration. The average response time of the system was between 30-40 seconds.

Trends of VOC exposures among a nationally representative sample: Analysis of the NHANES 1988 through 2004 data sets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Su, Feng-Chiao; Mukherjee, Bhramar; Batterman, Stuart

2011-09-01

Exposures to volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are ubiquitous due to emissions from personal, commercial and industrial products, but quantitative and representative information regarding long term exposure trends is lacking. This study characterizes trends from 1988 to 2004 for the 15 VOCs measured in blood in five cohorts of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), a large and representative sample of U.S. adults. Trends were evaluated at various percentiles using linear quantile regression (QR) models, which were adjusted for solvent-related occupations and cotinine levels. Most VOCs showed decreasing trends at all quantiles, e.g., median exposures declined by 2.5 (m,p-xylene) to 6.4 (tetrachloroethene) percent per year over the 15 year period. Trends varied by VOC and quantile, and were grouped into three patterns: similar decreases at all quantiles (including benzene, toluene); most rapid decreases at upper quantiles (ethylbenzene, m,p-xylene, o-xylene, styrene, chloroform, tetrachloroethene); and fastest declines at central quantiles (1,4-dichlorobenzene). These patterns reflect changes in exposure sources, e.g., upper-percentile exposures may result mostly from occupational exposure, while lower percentile exposures arise from general environmental sources. Both VOC emissions aggregated at the national level and VOC concentrations measured in ambient air also have declined substantially over the study period and are supportive of the exposure trends, although the NHANES data suggest the importance of indoor sources and personal activities on VOC exposures. While piecewise QR models suggest that exposures of several VOCs decreased little or any during the 1990's, followed by more rapid decreases from 1999 to 2004, questions are raised concerning the reliability of VOC data in several of the NHANES cohorts and its applicability as an exposure indicator, as demonstrated by the modest correlation between VOC levels in blood and personal air collected in the 1999/2000 cohort. Despite some limitations, the NHANES data provides a unique, long term and direct measurement of VOC exposures and trends.

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

Lin Shoufu, E-mail: linshf2003@126.co; Zhao Dingtao, E-mail: box@ustc.edu.c; Marinova, Dora, E-mail: D.Marinova@curtin.edu.a

Assuming that energy consumption is the main source of GHG emissions in China, this paper analyses the effect of population, urbanisation level, GDP per capita, industrialisation level and energy intensity on the country's environmental impact using the STIRPAT model with data for 1978-2006. The analysis shows that population has the largest potential effect on environmental impact, followed by urbanisation level, industrialisation level, GDP per capita and energy intensity. Hence, China's One Child Policy, which restrains rapid population growth, has been an effective way of reducing the country's environmental impact. However, due to the difference in growth rates, GDP per capitamore » had a higher effect on the environmental impact, contributing to 38% of its increase (while population's contribution was at 32%). The rapid decrease in energy intensity was the main factor restraining the increase in China's environmental impact but recently it has also been rising. Against this background, the future of the country looks bleak unless a change in human behaviour towards more ecologically sensitive economic choices occurs.« less

Use of a plastic insulin dosage guide to correct blood glucose levels out of the target range and for carbohydrate counting in subjects with type 1 diabetes.

PubMed

Kaufman, F R; Halvorson, M; Carpenter, S

1999-08-01

To improve glycemic control, a hand-held plastic Insulin Dosage Guide was developed to correct blood glucose levels outside of the target range. Protocol 1: Some 40 children (mean age 10.6+/-4.6 years) were randomly assigned for 3 months to use a written-on-paper algorithm or the Insulin Dosage Guide to correct abnormal blood glucose levels. Mean HbA1c and blood glucose levels and time to teach insulin dosage correction were compared. Protocol 2: The Insulin Dosage Guide was used by 83 subjects (mean age 11.4+/-4.3 years) for 1 year, and mean HbA1c levels, blood glucose levels, and number of consecutive high blood glucose values taken before and after the year were compared. Protocol 3: Some 20 patients (mean age 10.1+/-3.7 years) using rapid-acting insulin and 64 patients (mean age 15.9+/-3.6 years) using an insulin pump and rapid-acting insulin used the Insulin Dosage Guide and had mean blood glucose levels, HbA1c, and percentage of blood glucose levels outside of the target range determined. Protocol 1: There was a significant reduction in mean HbA1c (P = 0.04) and blood glucose levels (P = 0.05) and in the time needed to teach how to correct blood glucose values using the Insulin Dosage Guide compared with the paper algorithm. Protocol 2: There was a decrease in mean HbA1c levels (P = 0.0001) and a decrease in the mean number of consecutive blood glucose levels (P = 0.001) over the 1-year time period. Protocol 3: With rapid-acting insulin, there was a significant increase in the percentage of blood glucose levels within the target range (1 month, P = 0.04; at 3 months, P = 0.03). With the insulin pump, there was a high rate (90%) of blood glucose levels in the target range during pump initiation when the Insulin Dosage Guide was used. This inexpensive hand-held plastic card, which is portable and easy to use, may help patients improve glycemia and successfully manage diabetes.

Using Dynamic Value Stream Mapping and Lean Accounting Box Scores to Support Lean Implementation

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Woehrle, Stephen L.; Abou-Shady, Louay

2010-01-01

Lean has proven to be an effective management philosophy for improving businesses in a competitive market by eliminating waste and improving operations. An impact of implementing lean projects is the rapid reduction in inventory levels, which gives management the false impression that profits are decreasing while workers on the shop floor observe…

Effectiveness of hemodialysis in a case of severe valproate overdose

PubMed Central

Nasa, Prashant; Sehrawat, Deepak; Kansal, Sudha; Chawla, Rajesh

2011-01-01

A case of severe sodium valproate overdose is presented in which medicinal management failed to reverse coma of the patient. High-flux hemodialysis was then used to eliminate sodium valproate. This case demonstrated the effectiveness of hemodialysis in not only decreasing valproate levels very rapidly but also as an effective anti-coma management. PMID:21814378

Changes in the level of perforin and its transcript during effector and target cell interactions.

PubMed

Kim, K K; Blakely, A; Zhou, Z; Davis, J; Clark, W; Kwon, B S

1993-05-01

Perforin is a cytoplasmic granule protein expressed in cytotoxic lymphocytes, and is capable of lysing target cells. This protein is induced as cytotoxic T cells are activated, and the mRNA expression is modulated by various stimulators. These observations suggest possible changes in the level of perforin transcripts and protein when killer lymphocytes meet specific target cells leading to target cell death. To address this question, we examined three murine T-cell clones and primary human NK cells in perforin expression. When the cytotoxic lymphocytes were exposed to sensitive targets, perforin mRNA disappeared within 5 to 30 min and appeared within an hour thereafter. Among the murine T cell clones, L3 and OE4 showed two phases of mRNA decrease while human NK cells and the third murine T cell clone, AB.1, showed only one phase of mRNA loss during a 240 min period. The data indicate that when cytotoxic lymphocytes receive signals from a sensitive target, the cells rapidly degrade previously accumulated perforin mRNA and synthesize new transcripts. Interestingly, heat shock protein 70 mRNA was induced as the perforin mRNA levels recovered, while P55 Il-2 receptor mRNA was downregulated within 5 min after exposure to targets. The perforin protein level also rapidly decreased immediately after the interaction with the target, followed by a recovery, and then another decrease as seen in primary human NK cells, OE4 and L3 cells. However, in the AB.1 clone, no change in perforin content was detectable, despite the loss of perforin mRNA.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Exercise restores decreased physical activity levels and increases markers of autophagy and oxidative capacity in myostatin/activin-blocked mdx mice.

PubMed

Hulmi, Juha J; Oliveira, Bernardo M; Silvennoinen, Mika; Hoogaars, Willem M H; Pasternack, Arja; Kainulainen, Heikki; Ritvos, Olli

2013-07-15

The importance of adequate levels of muscle size and function and physical activity is widely recognized. Myostatin/activin blocking increases skeletal muscle mass but may decrease muscle oxidative capacity and can thus be hypothesized to affect voluntary physical activity. Soluble activin receptor IIB (sActRIIB-Fc) was produced to block myostatin/activins. Modestly dystrophic mdx mice were injected with sActRIIB-Fc or PBS with or without voluntary wheel running exercise for 7 wk. Healthy mice served as controls. Running for 7 wk attenuated the sActRIIB-Fc-induced increase in body mass by decreasing fat mass. Running also enhanced/restored the markers of muscle oxidative capacity and autophagy in mdx mice to or above the levels of healthy mice. Voluntary running activity was decreased by sActRIIB-Fc during the first 3-4 wk correlating with increased body mass. Home cage physical activity of mice, quantified from the force plate signal, was decreased by sActRIIB-Fc the whole 7-wk treatment in sedentary mice. To understand what happens during the first weeks after sActRIIB-Fc administration, when mice are less active, healthy mice were injected with sActRIIB-Fc or PBS for 2 wk. During the sActRIIB-Fc-induced rapid 2-wk muscle growth period, oxidative capacity and autophagy were reduced, which may possibly explain the decreased running activity. These results show that increased muscle size and decreased markers of oxidative capacity and autophagy during the first weeks of myostatin/activin blocking are associated with decreased voluntary activity levels. Voluntary exercise in dystrophic mice enhances the markers of oxidative capacity and autophagy to or above the levels of healthy mice.

Surface-water and groundwater interactions in an extensively mined watershed, upper Schuylkill River, Pennsylvania, USA

USGS Publications Warehouse

Cravotta, Charles A.; Goode, Daniel J.; Bartles, Michael D.; Risser, Dennis W.; Galeone, Daniel G.

2014-01-01

Streams crossing underground coal mines may lose flow, while abandoned mine drainage (AMD) restores flow downstream. During 2005-12, discharge from the Pine Knot Mine Tunnel, the largest AMD source in the upper Schuylkill River Basin, had near-neutral pH and elevated concentrations of iron, manganese, and sulfate. Discharge from the tunnel responded rapidly to recharge but exhibited a prolonged recession compared to nearby streams, consistent with rapid infiltration and slow release of groundwater from the mine. Downstream of the AMD, dissolved iron was attenuated by oxidation and precipitation while dissolved CO2 degassed and pH increased. During high-flow conditions, the AMD and downstream waters exhibited decreased pH, iron, and sulfate with increased acidity that were modeled by mixing net-alkaline AMD with recharge or runoff having low ionic strength and low pH. Attenuation of dissolved iron within the river was least effective during high-flow conditions because of decreased transport time coupled with inhibitory effects of low pH on oxidation kinetics. A numerical model of groundwater flow was calibrated using groundwater levels in the Pine Knot Mine and discharge data for the Pine Knot Mine Tunnel and the West Branch Schuylkill River during a snowmelt event in January 2012. Although the calibrated model indicated substantial recharge to the mine complex took place away from streams, simulation of rapid changes in mine pool level and tunnel discharge during a high flow event in May 2012 required a source of direct recharge to the Pine Knot Mine. Such recharge produced small changes in mine pool level and rapid changes in tunnel flow rate because of extensive unsaturated storage capacity and high transmissivity within the mine complex. Thus, elimination of stream leakage could have a small effect on the annual discharge from the tunnel, but a large effect on peak discharge and associated water quality in streams.

Major surgical trauma induces proteolysis of insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3 in transgenic mice and is associated with a rapid increase in circulating levels of matrix metalloproteinase-9.

PubMed

Belizon, A; Kirman, I; Balik, E; Karten, M; Jain, S; Whelan, R L

2007-04-01

The authors previously demonstrated a significant decrease in plasma levels of intact insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3) after major open but not after laparoscopic-assisted surgery in humans. They postulated that this decrease may have an effect on postoperative tumor growth. It also has been shown that plasma levels of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), a protease capable of degrading IGFBP-3, are transiently increased after open colectomy in humans. The authors aimed to develop an animal model that would allow further study of the effect that surgical trauma has on plasma levels IGFBP-3 and MMP-9. In addition, they set out to assess the concentration of MMP-9 in circulating monocytes before and after surgery. The 30 mice included in this study were divided into three groups: sham laparotomy, carbon dioxide (CO2) pneumoperitoneum, and anesthesia control. All mice were IGFBP-3 transgenics (overexpressing human IGFBP-3) on a CD1 background. The mice were anesthetized using ketamine and xylazine. Blood was drawn retroorbitally 48 h before the procedure. The duration of the procedure was 30 min. The animals were killed 24 h postoperatively and blood was drawn. Intact IGFBP-3 levels were measured using a combination of Western blot analysis and enzyme-linked immunoassay (ELISA) at the two time points: before and after the operation. Plasma and peripheral blood mononuclear cell levels of MMP-9 were measured at each time point using zymography. Mononuclear cell lysates were used to determine intracellular MMP-9 levels. Plasma levels of intact IGFBP-3 were significantly lower than preoperative levels after sham laparotomy. A mean decrease of 76.6% was noted (p < 0.05). Zymography demonstrated significantly higher plasma MMP-9-related proteolytic activity than observed preoperatively after sham laparotomy (78.5 vs 42.3 Relative Units [RU]; p < 0.05). In the pneumoperitoneum group, no significant decrease was found between the pre- and postoperative levels of intact IGFBP-3. A nonsignificant increase in MMP-9 was noted after CO2 pneumoperitoneum (38 RU preoperatively vs. 46.4 RU postoperatively; p > 0.05). The anesthesia control group did not demonstrate a significant change in either circulating intact IGFBP-3 levels or MMP-9 levels. Mononuclear intracellular levels of MMP-9 were significantly lower after laparotomy than the preoperative levels (3 vs 37 RU). The postprocedure intracellular levels of MMP-9 were not significantly decreased in the pneumoperitoneum or anesthesia control group. Plasma levels of intact IGFBP-3, a cell growth regulating factor, were found to be decreased significantly after laparotomy. This decrease was not seen after pneumoperitoneum. Depletion of intact IGFBP-3 after laparotomy correlated with a rapid release of MMP-9 from mononuclear cells and an increase in circulating plasma MMP-9 levels. Matrix metalloproteinase-9 may play an important role in IGFBP-3 proteolysis after surgical trauma. Furthermore, circulating mononuclear cells are one source of MMP-9 after surgery. Finally, the model used reproduces events in humans after surgery, and thus should permit further study on the mechanism of IGFBP-3 proteolysis after surgical trauma.

Air pollution and population health: a global challenge.

PubMed

Chen, Bingheng; Kan, Haidong

2008-03-01

"Air pollution and population health" is one of the most important environmental and public health issues. Economic development, urbanization, energy consumption, transportation/motorization, and rapid population growth are major driving forces of air pollution in large cities, especially in megacities. Air pollution levels in developed countries have been decreasing dramatically in recent decades. However, in developing countries and in countries in transition, air pollution levels are still at relatively high levels, though the levels have been gradually decreasing or have remained stable during rapid economic development. In recent years, several hundred epidemiological studies have emerged showing adverse health effects associated with short-term and long-term exposure to air pollutants. Time-series studies conducted in Asian cities also showed similar health effects on mortality associated with exposure to particulate matter (PM), sulfur dioxide (SO(2)), nitrogen dioxide (NO(2)) and ozone (O(3)) to those explored in Europe and North America. The World Health Organization (WHO) published the "WHO Air Quality Guidelines (AQGs), Global Update" in 2006. These updated AQGs provide much stricter guidelines for PM, NO(2), SO(2) and O(3). Considering that current air pollution levels are much higher than the WHO-recommended AQGs, interim targets for these four air pollutants are also recommended for member states, especially for developing countries in setting their country-specific air quality standards. In conclusion, ambient air pollution is a health hazard. It is more important in Asian developing countries within the context of pollution level and population density. Improving air quality has substantial, measurable and important public health benefits.

H2O frost point detection on Mars

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ryan, J. A.; Sharman, R. D.

1981-01-01

The Viking Mars landers contain meteorological instrumentation to measure wind, temperature, and pressure but not atmospheric water content. The landings occurred during local summer, and it was observed that the nocturnal temperature decrease at sensor height (1.6 m) did not exhibit a uniform behavior at either site. It was expected that the rate of decrease would gradually slow, leveling off near sunrise. Instead, a leveling occurred several hours earlier. Temperature subsequently began a more rapid decrease which slowed by sunrise. This suggested that the temperature sensors may be detecting the frost point of water vapor. Analysis of alternative hypotheses demonstrates that none of these are viable candidates. The frost point interpretation is consistent with other lander and orbiter observations, with terrestrial experience, and with modeling of Mars' atmospheric behavior. It thus appears that the meteorology experiment can help provide a basis toward understanding the distribution and dynamics of Martian water vapor.

Greater Efficacy of Total Thyroidectomy versus Radioiodine Therapy on Hyperthyroidism and Thyroid-Stimulating Immunoglobulin Levels in Patients with Graves' Disease Previously Treated with Antithyroid Drugs

PubMed Central

Kautbally, Shakeel; Alexopoulou, Orsalia; Daumerie, Chantal; Jamar, François; Mourad, Michel; Maiter, Dominique

2012-01-01

Aims We compared the effects of total thyroidectomy (TTx) and radioiodine (RAI) administration on the course of thyroid hormones and thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulins (TSI) in patients with Graves' disease. Methods We retrospectively studied 80 patients initially treated with antithyroid drugs and requiring either RAI (8.3 ± 1.7 mCi of 131I; n = 40) or TTx (n = 40) as second-line therapy. Results The TTx and RAI groups were not different, except for larger goiter, higher FT3 and more frequent Graves' orbitopathy at diagnosis in the surgery group (p < 0.05). A persistent remission of hyperthyroidism was observed in 97% of operated patients versus 73% of the RAI patients at 3 years (p < 0.01). TTx was followed by a rapid and steady decrease in TSI during the first 9 months, while a surge of antibodies was observed during the first 6 months after RAI, followed by a slow decrease over the next 18 months. At the last visit, high TSI levels were still observed in 18 and 60% of patients in the surgery and RAI groups, respectively (p < 0.001). Conclusions TTx is more efficient than RAI to induce a rapid and permanent correction of hyperthyroidism and TSI decrease in patients previously treated with antithyroid drugs. PMID:24783007

Acoustic sounding in the planetary boundary layer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kelly, E. H.

1974-01-01

Three case studies are presented involving data from an acoustic radar. The first two cases examine data collected during the passage of a mesoscale cold-air intrusion, probably thunderstorm outflow, and a synoptic-scale cold front. In these studies the radar data are compared to conventional meteorological data obtained from the WKY tower facility for the purpose of radar data interpretation. It is shown that the acoustic radar echoes reveal the boundary between warm and cold air and other areas of turbulent mixing, regions of strong vertical temperature gradients, and areas of weak or no wind shear. The third case study examines the relationship between the nocturnal radiation inversion and the low-level wind maximum or jet in the light of conclusions presented by Blackadar (1957). The low-level jet is seen forming well above the top of the inversion. Sudden rapid growth of the inversion occurs which brings the top of the inversion to a height equal that of the jet. Coincident with the rapid growth of the inversion is a sudden decrease in the intensity of the acoustic radar echoes in the inversion layer. It is suggested that the decrease in echo intensity reveals a decrease in turbulent mixing in the inversion layer as predicted by Blackadar. It is concluded that the acoustic radar can be a valuable tool for study in the lower atmosphere.

Cockroaches traverse crevices, crawl rapidly in confined spaces, and inspire a soft, legged robot

PubMed Central

Jayaram, Kaushik; Full, Robert J.

2016-01-01

Jointed exoskeletons permit rapid appendage-driven locomotion but retain the soft-bodied, shape-changing ability to explore confined environments. We challenged cockroaches with horizontal crevices smaller than a quarter of their standing body height. Cockroaches rapidly traversed crevices in 300–800 ms by compressing their body 40–60%. High-speed videography revealed crevice negotiation to be a complex, discontinuous maneuver. After traversing horizontal crevices to enter a vertically confined space, cockroaches crawled at velocities approaching 60 cm⋅s−1, despite body compression and postural changes. Running velocity, stride length, and stride period only decreased at the smallest crevice height (4 mm), whereas slipping and the probability of zigzag paths increased. To explain confined-space running performance limits, we altered ceiling and ground friction. Increased ceiling friction decreased velocity by decreasing stride length and increasing slipping. Increased ground friction resulted in velocity and stride length attaining a maximum at intermediate friction levels. These data support a model of an unexplored mode of locomotion—“body-friction legged crawling” with body drag, friction-dominated leg thrust, but no media flow as in air, water, or sand. To define the limits of body compression in confined spaces, we conducted dynamic compressive cycle tests on living animals. Exoskeletal strength allowed cockroaches to withstand forces 300 times body weight when traversing the smallest crevices and up to nearly 900 times body weight without injury. Cockroach exoskeletons provided biological inspiration for the manufacture of an origami-style, soft, legged robot that can locomote rapidly in both open and confined spaces. PMID:26858443

Cockroaches traverse crevices, crawl rapidly in confined spaces, and inspire a soft, legged robot.

PubMed

Jayaram, Kaushik; Full, Robert J

2016-02-23

Jointed exoskeletons permit rapid appendage-driven locomotion but retain the soft-bodied, shape-changing ability to explore confined environments. We challenged cockroaches with horizontal crevices smaller than a quarter of their standing body height. Cockroaches rapidly traversed crevices in 300-800 ms by compressing their body 40-60%. High-speed videography revealed crevice negotiation to be a complex, discontinuous maneuver. After traversing horizontal crevices to enter a vertically confined space, cockroaches crawled at velocities approaching 60 cm⋅s(-1), despite body compression and postural changes. Running velocity, stride length, and stride period only decreased at the smallest crevice height (4 mm), whereas slipping and the probability of zigzag paths increased. To explain confined-space running performance limits, we altered ceiling and ground friction. Increased ceiling friction decreased velocity by decreasing stride length and increasing slipping. Increased ground friction resulted in velocity and stride length attaining a maximum at intermediate friction levels. These data support a model of an unexplored mode of locomotion--"body-friction legged crawling" with body drag, friction-dominated leg thrust, but no media flow as in air, water, or sand. To define the limits of body compression in confined spaces, we conducted dynamic compressive cycle tests on living animals. Exoskeletal strength allowed cockroaches to withstand forces 300 times body weight when traversing the smallest crevices and up to nearly 900 times body weight without injury. Cockroach exoskeletons provided biological inspiration for the manufacture of an origami-style, soft, legged robot that can locomote rapidly in both open and confined spaces.

GA-optimization for rapid prototype system demonstration

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kim, Jinwoo; Zeigler, Bernard P.

1994-01-01

An application of the Genetic Algorithm (GA) is discussed. A novel scheme of Hierarchical GA was developed to solve complicated engineering problems which require optimization of a large number of parameters with high precision. High level GAs search for few parameters which are much more sensitive to the system performance. Low level GAs search in more detail and employ a greater number of parameters for further optimization. Therefore, the complexity of the search is decreased and the computing resources are used more efficiently.

Repaglinide improves blood glucose control in sulphonylurea-naive type 2 diabetes.

PubMed

Van Gaal, L F; Van Acker, K L; De Leeuw, I H

2001-09-01

The prandial glucose regulator repaglinide has a rapid onset of action, a short half-life and is metabolised mainly by the liver. Here we report the findings of a 10-week, double-blind, parallel, placebo controlled, randomised trial with repaglinide in 25 diet-treated, sulphonylurea-naïve patients with Type 2 diabetes. Repaglinide was titrated, based on capillary blood glucose, from 0.5 mg to a maximum of 4 mg, preprandially with breakfast and dinner. After 10 weeks, repaglinide was associated with a decrease in HbA(1c) of 2.3%Hb relative to the placebo group (P=0.018). This reflected a 30% decrease within the repaglinide group from a mean HbA(1c) of 7.0 to 4.9%Hb (P<0.002). Repaglinide was also associated with a decrease in fructosamine, by 0.88 mmol/l, relative to placebo (P<0.001), with a 20% decrease (from 3.80 to 3.04 mmol/l) within the repaglinide group (P<0.001). Fasting and postprandial blood glucose concentrations decreased in association with repaglinide by 3.6 and 6.4 mmol/l, respectively, relative to placebo (P<0.001 in each case). Within the repaglinide group fasting and postprandial blood glucose decreased by 3.9 and 6.2 mmol/l, respectively (P<0.001 in each case). The number of patients reporting hypoglycaemia in the repaglinide group was similar to placebo (15 vs. 20, respectively; NS). Test meal assessments confirmed that repaglinide effectively controls glucose levels by stimulating mealtime insulin secretion. Fasting serum insulin concentration was not raised compared to baseline or placebo during repaglinide therapy, albeit that fasting glucose levels were decreased by repaglinide. Twice-daily meal-related insulin secretagogue therapy with repaglinide, a new short and rapid-acting prandial glucose regulator, is capable of improving all measures of glycaemic control without increased hypoglycaemia or fasting hyperinsulinaemia.

Is Molecular Cloud Turbulence Driven by External Supernova Explosions?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Seifried, Daniel; Walch, Stefanie; Haid, Sebastian; Girichidis, Philipp; Naab, Thorsten

2018-03-01

We present high-resolution (∼0.1 pc), hydrodynamical and magnetohydrodynamical simulations to investigate whether the observed level of molecular cloud (MC) turbulence can be generated and maintained by external supernova (SN) explosions. The MCs are formed self-consistently within their large-scale galactic environment following the non-equilibrium formation of H2 and CO, including (self-) shielding and important heating and cooling processes. The MCs inherit their initial level of turbulence from the diffuse ISM, where turbulence is injected by SN explosions. However, by systematically exploring the effect of individual SNe going off outside the clouds, we show that at later stages the importance of SN-driven turbulence is decreased significantly. This holds for different MC masses as well as for MCs with and without magnetic fields. The SN impact also decreases rapidly with larger distances. Nearby SNe (d ∼ 25 pc) boost the turbulent velocity dispersions of the MC by up to 70% (up to a few km s‑1). For d > 50 pc, however, their impact decreases fast with increasing d and is almost negligible. For all probed distances the gain in velocity dispersion decays rapidly within a few 100 kyr. This is significantly shorter than the average timescale for an MC to be hit by a nearby SN under solar neighborhood conditions (∼2 Myr). Hence, at these conditions SNe are not able to sustain the observed level of MC turbulence. However, in environments with high gas surface densities and SN rates, like the Central Molecular Zone, observed elevated MC dispersions could be triggered by external SNe.

cap alpha. /sub 2/-Adrenergic receptor-mediated sensitization of forskolin-stimulated cyclic AMP production

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

Jones, S.B.; Toews, M.L.; Turner, J.T.

1987-03-01

Preincubation of HT29 human colonic adenocarcinoma cells with ..cap alpha../sub 2/-adrenergic agonists resulted in a 10- to 20-fold increase in forskolin-stimulated cyclic AMP production as compared to cells preincubated without agonist. Similar results were obtained using either a (/sup 3/H)adenine prelabeling assay or a cyclic AMP radioimmunoassay to measure cyclic AMP levels. This phenomenon, which is termed sensitization, is ..cap alpha../sub 2/-adrenergic receptor-mediated and rapid in onset and reversal. Yohimbine, an ..cap alpha../sub 2/-adrenergic receptor-selective antagonist, blocked norepinephrine-induced sensitization, whereas prazosin (..cap alpha../sub 1/-adrenergic) and sotalol (..beta..-adrenergic) did not. The time for half-maximal sensitization was 5 min and the half-timemore » for reversal was 10 min. Only a 2-fold sensitization of cyclic AMP production stimulated by vasoactive intestinal peptide was observed, indicating that sensitization is relatively selective for forskolin. Sensitization reflects an increased production of cyclic AMP and not a decreased degradation of cyclic AMP, since incubation with a phosphodiesterase inhibitor and forskolin did not mimic sensitization. Increasing the levels of cyclic AMP during the preincubation had no effect on sensitization, indicating that sensitization is not caused by decreased cyclic AMP levels during the preincubation. This rapid and dramatic sensitization of forskolin-stimulated cyclic AMP production is a previously unreported effect that can be added to the growing list of ..cap alpha../sub 2/-adrenergic responses that are not mediated by a decrease in cyclic AMP.« less

Successive Mineralization and Detoxification of Benzo[a]pyrene by the White Rot Fungus Bjerkandera sp. Strain BOS55 and Indigenous Microflora

PubMed Central

Kotterman, Michiel J. J.; Vis, Eric H.; Field, Jim A.

1998-01-01

White rot fungi can oxidize high-molecular-weight polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) rapidly to polar metabolites, but only limited mineralization takes place. The objectives of this study were to determine if the polar metabolites can be readily mineralized by indigenous microflora from several inoculum sources, such as activated sludge, forest soils, and PAH-adapted sediment sludge, and to determine if such metabolites have decreased mutagenicity compared to the mutagenicity of the parent PAH. 14C-radiolabeled benzo[a]pyrene was subjected to oxidation by the white rot fungus Bjerkandera sp. strain BOS55. After 15 days, up to 8.5% of the [14C]benzo[a]pyrene was recovered as 14CO2 in fungal cultures, up to 73% was recovered as water-soluble metabolites, and only 4% remained soluble in dibutyl ether. Thin-layer chromatography analysis revealed that many polar fluorescent metabolites accumulated. Addition of indigenous microflora to fungal cultures with oxidized benzo[a]pyrene on day 15 resulted in an initially rapid increase in the level of 14CO2 recovery to a maximal value of 34% by the end of the experiments (>150 days), and the level of water-soluble label decreased to 16% of the initial level. In fungal cultures not inoculated with microflora, the level of 14CO2 recovery increased to 13.5%, while the level of recovery of water-soluble metabolites remained as high as 61%. No large differences in 14CO2 production were observed with several inocula, showing that some polar metabolites of fungal benzo[a]pyrene oxidation were readily degraded by indigenous microorganisms, while other metabolites were not. Of the inocula tested, only PAH-adapted sediment sludge was capable of directly mineralizing intact benzo[a]pyrene, albeit at a lower rate and to a lesser extent than the mineralization observed after combined treatment with white rot fungi and indigenous microflora. Fungal oxidation of benzo[a]pyrene resulted in rapid and almost complete elimination of its high mutagenic potential, as observed in the Salmonella typhimurium revertant test performed with strains TA100 and TA98. Moreover, no direct mutagenic metabolite could be detected during fungal oxidation. The remaining weak mutagenic activity of fungal cultures containing benzo[a]pyrene metabolites towards strain TA98 was further decreased by subsequent incubations with indigenous microflora. PMID:9687440

Ethylene production throughout growth and development of plants

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wheeler, Raymond M.; Peterson, Barbara V.; Stutte, Gary W.

2004-01-01

Ethylene production by 10 or 20 m2 stands of wheat, soybean, lettuce, potato, and tomato was monitored throughout growth and development in an atmospherically closed plant chamber. Chamber ethylene levels varied among species and rose during periods of canopy expansion and rapid growth for all species. Following this, ethylene levels either declined during seed fill and maturation for wheat and soybean, or remained relatively constant for potato and tomato (during flowering and early fruit development). Lettuce plants were harvested during rapid growth and peak ethylene production. Chamber ethylene levels increased rapidly during tomato ripening, reaching concentrations about 10 times that measured during vegetative growth. The highest ethylene production rates during vegetative growth ranged from 1.6 to 2.5 nmol m-2 d-1 during rapid growth of lettuce and wheat stands, or about 0.3 to 0.5 nmol g-1 fresh weight per hour. Estimates of stand ethylene production during tomato ripening showed that rates reached 43 nmol m-2 d-1 in one study and 93 nmol m-2 d-1 in a second study with higher lighting, or about 50x that of the rate during vegetative growth of tomato. In a related test with potato, the photoperiod was extended from 12 to 24 hours (continuous light) at 58 days after planting (to increase tuber yield), but this change in the environment caused a sharp increase in ethylene production from the basal rate of 0.4 to 6.2 nmol m-2 d-1. Following this, the photoperiod was changed back to 12 h at 61 days and ethylene levels decreased. The results suggest three separate categories of ethylene production were observed with whole stands of plants: 1) production during rapid vegetative growth, 2) production during climacteric fruit ripening, and 3) production from environmental stress.

Nitric oxide-mediated modulation of iron regulatory proteins: implication for cellular iron homeostasis.

PubMed

Kim, Sangwon; Ponka, Prem

2002-01-01

Iron regulatory proteins (IRP1 and IRP2) control the synthesis of transferrin receptors (TfR) and ferritin by binding to iron-responsive elements (IREs) that are located in the 3' untranslated region (UTR) and the 5' UTR of their respective mRNAs. Cellular iron levels affect binding of IRPs to IREs and consequently expression of TfR and ferritin. Moreover, NO(.), a redox species of nitric oxide that interacts primarily with iron, can activate IRP1 RNA-binding activity resulting in an increase in TfR mRNA levels and a decrease in ferritin synthesis. We have shown that treatment of RAW 264.7 cells (a murine macrophage cell line) with NO(+) (nitrosonium ion, which causes S-nitrosylation of thiol groups) resulted in a rapid decrease in RNA-binding of IRP2, followed by IRP2 degradation, and these changes were associated with a decrease in TfR mRNA levels and a dramatic increase in ferritin synthesis. Moreover, we demonstrated that stimulation of RAW 264.7 cells with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) increased IRP1 binding activity, whereas RNA-binding of IRP2 decreased and was followed by a degradation of this protein. Furthermore, the decrease of IRP2 binding/protein levels was associated with a decrease in TfR mRNA levels and an increase in ferritin synthesis in LPS/IFN-gamma-treated cells, and these changes were prevented by inhibitors of inducible nitric oxide synthase. These results suggest that NO(+)-mediated degradation of IRP2 plays a major role in iron metabolism during inflammation.

Role of nitric oxide in cellular iron metabolism.

PubMed

Kim, Sangwon; Ponka, Prem

2003-03-01

Iron regulatory proteins (IRP1 and IRP2) control the synthesis of transferrin receptors (TfR) and ferritin by binding to iron-responsive elements (IREs) which are located in the 3' untranslated region (UTR) and the 5' UTR of their respective mRNAs. Cellular iron levels affect binding of IRPs to IREs and consequently expression of TfR and ferritin. Moreover, NO*, a redox species of nitric oxide that interacts primarily with iron, can activate IRP1 RNA-binding activity resulting in an increase in TfR mRNA levels. We have shown that treatment of RAW 264.7 cells (a murine macrophage cell line) with NO+ (nitrosonium ion, which causes S-nitrosylation of thiol groups) resulted in a rapid decrease in RNA-binding of IRP2, followed by IRP2 degradation, and these changes were associated with a decrease in TfR mRNA levels. Moreover, we demonstrated that stimulation of RAW 264.7 cells with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) increased IRP1 binding activity, whereas RNA-binding of IRP2 decreased and was followed by a degradation of this protein. Furthermore, the decrease of IRP2 binding/protein levels was associated with a decrease in TfR mRNA levels in LPS/IFN-gamma-treated cells, and these changes were prevented by inhibitors of inducible nitric oxide synthase. These results suggest that NO+-mediated degradation of IRP2 plays a major role in iron metabolism during inflammation.

Widespread albedo decreasing and induced melting of Himalayan snow and ice in the early 21st century.

PubMed

Ming, Jing; Wang, Yaqiang; Du, Zhencai; Zhang, Tong; Guo, Wanqin; Xiao, Cunde; Xu, Xiaobin; Ding, Minghu; Zhang, Dongqi; Yang, Wen

2015-01-01

The widely distributed glaciers in the greater Himalayan region have generally experienced rapid shrinkage since the 1850s. As invaluable sources of water and because of their scarcity, these glaciers are extremely important. Beginning in the twenty-first century, new methods have been applied to measure the mass budget of these glaciers. Investigations have shown that the albedo is an important parameter that affects the melting of Himalayan glaciers. The surface albedo based on the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) data over the Hindu Kush, Karakoram and Himalaya (HKH) glaciers is surveyed in this study for the period 2000-2011. The general albedo trend shows that the glaciers have been darkening since 2000. The most rapid decrease in the surface albedo has occurred in the glacial area above 6000 m, which implies that melting will likely extend to snow accumulation areas. The mass-loss equivalent (MLE) of the HKH glacial area caused by surface shortwave radiation absorption is estimated to be 10.4 Gt yr-1, which may contribute to 1.2% of the global sea level rise on annual average (2003-2009). This work probably presents a first scene depicting the albedo variations over the whole HKH glacial area during the period 2000-2011. Most rapidly decreasing in albedo has been detected in the highest area, which deserves to be especially concerned.

Sucroferric oxyhydroxide decreases serum phosphorus level and fibroblast growth factor 23 and improves renal anemia in hemodialysis patients.

PubMed

Shima, Hisato; Miya, Keiko; Okada, Kazuyoshi; Minakuchi, Jun; Kawashima, Shu

2018-06-08

Sucroferric oxyhydroxide, a novel iron-based phosphate-binder, has been shown to have beneficial effects in lowering serum phosphorus levels and improving renal anemia in clinical studies. Although an effect of this agent on fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) has been reported in an animal study, there is little clinical data supporting this finding. This study aimed to evaluate the effect on chronic kidney disease-mineral and bone disorder, FGF23, renal anemia, iron-related parameters, adverse events of sucroferric oxyhydroxide in hemodialysis patients. Hemodialysis patients, receiving existing hyperphosphatemia drugs with insufficient benefit, were administered sucroferric oxyhydroxide with/without calcium carbonate for 16 weeks. Serum phosphorus level declined rapidly in Week 8 (p < 0.0001) and this decrease persisted until Week 16 (p < 0.0001). FGF23 decreased (p = 0.0412, Week 16), and hemoglobin increased (p < 0.0001, Week 16). Cumulative dose of erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (p = 0.0122, Week 16), and intravenous iron (p = 0.0233, Week 12) decreased. All adverse reactions were mild, and diarrhea was the most frequently observed adverse reaction (16.7%). Therefore, hyperphosphatemia treatment with sucroferric oxyhydroxide may safely improve serum phosphorus level, renal anemia, FGF23, and other factors that affect the prognosis of hemodialysis patients.

Toxicokinetic, toxicodynamic, and toxicoproteomic aspects of short-term exposure to trenbolone in female fish.

PubMed

Schultz, Irvin R; Nagler, James J; Swanson, Penny; Wunschel, Dave; Skillman, Ann D; Burnett, Vicki; Smith, Derek; Barry, Richard

2013-12-01

The toxicokinetics of trenbolone was characterized during 500 ng/l water exposures in female rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) and fathead minnows (Pimephales promelas). Related experiments measured various toxicodynamic effects of exposure. In both species, trenbolone was rapidly absorbed from the water and reached peak plasma levels within 8h of exposure. Afterwards, trenbolone concentrations in trout (66-95 ng/ml) were 2-6 times higher compared with minnows (15-29 ng/ml), which was attributable to greater plasma binding in trout. During water exposures, circulating levels of estradiol (E2) rapidly decreased in both species to a concentration that was 25%-40% of control values by 8-24h of exposure and then remained relatively unchanged for the subsequent 6 days of exposure. In trout, changes in circulating levels of follicle-stimulating hormone were also significantly greater after trenbolone exposure, relative to controls. In both species, the pharmacokinetics of injected E2-d3 was altered by trenbolone exposure with an increase in total body clearance and a corresponding decrease in elimination half-life. The unbound percentage of E2 in trout plasma was 0.25%, which was similar in pre- or postvitellogenic female trout. Subsequent incubation with trenbolone caused the unbound percentage to significantly increase to 2.4% in the previtellogenic trout plasma. iTRAQ-based toxicoproteomic studies in minnows exposed to 5, 50, and 500 ng/l trenbolone identified a total of 148 proteins with 19 downregulated including vitellogenin and 18 upregulated. Other downregulated proteins were fibrinogens, α-2-macroglobulin, and transferrin. Upregulated proteins included amine oxidase, apolipoproteins, parvalbumin, complement system proteins, and several uncharacterized proteins. The results indicate trenbolone exposure is a highly dynamic process in female fish with uptake and tissue equilibrium quickly established, leading to both rapid and delayed toxicodynamic effects.

Atmospheric Influences on the Anomalous 2016 Antarctic Sea Ice Decay

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Raphael, M. N.; Schlosser, E.; Haumann, A.

2017-12-01

Over the past three decades, a small but significant increase in sea ice extent (SIE) has been observed in the Antarctic. However, in 2016 there was a surprisingly early onset of the melt season. The maximum Antarctic SIE was reached in August rather than end of September, and was followed by a rapid decrease. The decline of the sea ice area (SIA) started even earlier, in July. The retreat of the ice was particularly large in November where Antarctic SIE exhibited a negative anomaly (compared to the 1981-2010 average) of almost 2 Mio. km2, which, combined with reduced Arctic SIE, led to a distinct minimum in global SIE. And, satellite observations show that from November 2016 to February 2017, the daily Antarctic SIE has been at record low levels. We use sea level pressure and geopotential height data from the ECMWF- Interim reanalysis, in conjunction with sea ice data obtained from the National Snow and Ice Data Centre (NSIDC), to investigate possible atmospheric influences on the observed phenomena. Indications are that both the onset of the melt in July and the rapid decrease in SIA and SIE in November were triggered by atmospheric flow patterns related to a positive Zonal Wave 3 index, i.e. synoptic situations leading to strong meridional flow. Additionally the Southern Annular Mode (SAM) index reached its second lowest November value since the beginning of the satellite observations. It is likely that the SIE decrease was preconditioned by SIA decrease. Positive feedback effects led to accelerated melt and consequently to the extraordinary low November SIE.

Looking Toward the 21st Century: Implications for "Traditional" Undergraduate/Graduate Geography Programs.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Austin, C. Murray

This paper discusses the future of geography education at the college and graduate levels. The rapid changes in the world, the financial pressures at home, and a decrease in the recognition of the potential contributions of geography and geographers are signals of danger, but also opportunities for growth. If geographic education is to be of…

Microbial succession and metabolite changes during fermentation of dongchimi, traditional Korean watery kimchi.

PubMed

Jeong, Sang Hyeon; Jung, Ji Young; Lee, Se Hee; Jin, Hyun Mi; Jeon, Che Ok

2013-06-03

Dongchimi, one of the most common types of watery kimchi in Korea, was prepared using radish and its pH values, microbial cell numbers, bacterial communities, and metabolites were monitored periodically to investigate the fermentation process of watery kimchi. The bacterial abundance increased quickly during the early fermentation period and the pH values concurrently decreased rapidly without any initial pH increase. After 15 days of fermentation, the bacterial abundance decreased rapidly with the increase of Saccharomyces abundance and then increased again with a decrease of Saccharomyces abundance after 40 days of fermentation, suggesting that bacteria and Saccharomyces have a direct antagonistic relationship. Finally, after 60 days of fermentation, a decrease in bacterial abundance and the growth of Candida were concurrently observed. Community analysis using pyrosequencing revealed that diverse genera such as Leuconostoc, Lactobacillus, Pseudomonas, Pantoea, and Weissella were present at initial fermentation (day 0), but Leuconostoc became predominant within only three days of fermentation and remained predominant until the end of fermentation (day 100). Metabolite analysis using (1)H NMR showed that the concentrations of free sugars (fructose and glucose) were very low during the early fermentation period, but their concentrations increased rapidly although lactate, mannitol, and acetate were produced. After 30 days of fermentation, quick consumption of free sugars and production of glycerol and ethanol were observed concurrently with the growth of Saccharomyces, levels of which might be considered for use as a potential indicator of dongchimi quality and fermentation time. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Reduction in plasma vasopressin levels of dehydrated rats following acute stress

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Keil, L. C.; Severs, W. B.

1977-01-01

Results are presented for an investigation directed to substantiate and extend preliminary findings of stress-induced reduction in plasma arginine vasopressin (pAVP). Since normally hydrated rats have very low levels of pAVP, it is difficult to measure reliably any decrease in pAVP that may result from stress. To overcome this problem, the pAVP levels of the tested rats were raised by dehydration prior to application of stress. A radioimmunoassay for pAVP is described and used to determine the levels of vasopressin in the plasma of nondehydrated and dehydrated rats after exposure to ether or acceleration stress. Plasma pAVP is also determined in rats following nicotine administration. It is shown that exposure of nondehydrated rats to ether or acceleration stress does not elicit any significant alterations in circulating pAVP levels while nicotine injections stimulate a marked increase. In particular, ether and acceleration stress produce a rapid reduction in the pAVP level of dehydrated rats, the decrease being observed in both large and small animals. The mechanism for this reduction in pAVP level following stress is yet unknown.

Treatment of hypertriglyceridemia-induced acute pancreatitis with insulin

PubMed Central

Erkan, Nazif; Yakan, Savas; Yildirim, Mehmet; Carti, Erdem; Ucar, Deniz; Oymaci, Erkan

2015-01-01

Introduction Hypertriglyceridaemia (HT)-induced pancreatitis rarely occurs unless triglyceride levels exceed 1000 mg/dl. Hypertriglyceridaemia over 1,000 mg/dl can provoke acute pancreatitis (AP) and its persistence can worsen the clinical outcome. In contrast, a rapid decrease in triglyceride level is beneficial. Insulin-stimulated lipoprotein lipase is known to decrease serum triglyceride levels. However, their efficacy in HT-induced AP is not well documented. Aim To present 12 cases of AP successfully treated by insulin administration. Material and methods Three hundred and forty-three cases of AP were diagnosed at our clinic between 2005 and 2012. Twelve (3.5%) of these cases were HT-induced AP. Twelve patients who suffered HT-induced AP are reported. Initial blood triglyceride levels were above 1000 mg/dl. Besides the usual treatment of AP, insulin was administered intravenously in continuous infusion. The patients’ medical records were retrospectively evaluated in this study. Results Serum triglyceride levels decreased to < 500 mg/dl within 2–3 days. No complications of treatment were seen and good clinical outcome was observed. Conclusions Our results are compatible with the literature. Insulin may be used safely and effectively in HT-induced AP therapy. Administration of insulin is efficient when used to reduce triglyceride levels in patients with HT-induced AP. PMID:25960810

Coral colonisation of a shallow reef flat in response to rising sea level: quantification from 35 years of remote sensing data at Heron Island, Australia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Scopélitis, J.; Andréfouët, S.; Phinn, S.; Done, T.; Chabanet, P.

2011-12-01

Observations made on Heron Island reef flat during the 1970s-1990s highlighted the importance of rapid change in hydrodynamics and accommodation space for coral development. Between the 1940s and the 1990s, the minimum reef-flat top water level varied by some tens of centimetres, successively down then up, in rapid response to local engineering works. Coral growth followed sea-level variations and was quantified here for several coral communities using horizontal two-dimensional above water remotely sensed observations. This required seven high spatial resolution aerial photographs and Quickbird satellite images spanning 35 years: 1972, 1979, 1990, 1992, 2002, 2006 and 2007. The coral growth dynamics followed four regimes corresponding to artificially induced changes in sea levels: 1972-1979 (lowest growth rate): no detectable coral development, due to high tidal currents and minimum mean low-tide water level; 1979-1991 (higher growth rate): horizontal coral development promoted by calmer hydrodynamic conditions; 1991-2001(lower growth rate): vertical coral development, induced by increased local sea level by ~12 cm due to construction of new bund walls; 2001-2007 (highest growth rate): horizontal coral development after that vertical growth had become limited by sea level. This unique time-series displays a succession of ecological stage comprising a `catch-up' dynamic in response to a rapid local sea-level rise in spite of the occurrences of the most severe bleaching events on record (1998, 2002) and the decreasing calcification rates reported in massive corals in the northern part of the Great Barrier Reef.

Carbachol regulation of rabbit ileal brush border Na+–H+ exchanger 3 (NHE3) occurs through changes in NHE3 trafficking and complex formation and is Src dependent

PubMed Central

Li, Xuhang; Zhang, Huiping; Cheong, Alice; Yueping Chen, Sharon Leu; Elowsky, Christian G; Donowitz, Mark

2004-01-01

The epithelial brush border membrane (BBM) Na+–H+ exchanger 3 (NHE3) is the major transport protein responsible for ileal electroneutral Na+ absorption. We have previously shown that ileal BBM NHE3 activity is rapidly inhibited by carbachol, an agonist that mimics cholinergic activation in digestion. In this study, we investigated the mechanisms involved in this NHE3 inhibition. Carbachol decreased the amount of ileal Na+ absorptive cell BBM NHE3 within 10 min of exposure. Based on OptiPrep gradient centrifugation, carbachol increased the amount of NHE3 in early endosomes and decreased the amount of NHE3 in BBM, consistent with effects on NHE3 trafficking. The decrease in BBM NHE3 occurred in the detergent-soluble BBM fraction with no change in the amount of NHE3 in the BBM detergent-resistant membranes. The size of BBM NHE3 complexes increased in carbachol-exposed ileum, as studied with sucrose gradient centrifugation. The NHE3 complex size increased in the total BBM, but did not change in the detergent-soluble fraction. This suggests that carbachol treatment enhanced the association of proteins with NHE3 complexes specifically in the detergent-resistant fraction of ileal BBM. NHERF2, α-actinin-4 and protein kinase C were among those NHE3-associated proteins because they were more efficiently coimmunoprecipitated from total BBM after carbachol treatment. Moreover, Src was involved in the carbachol-mediated inhibition since: (1) c-Src was rapidly activated in the detergent-resistant membranes by carbachol; and (2) carbachol inhibition of ileal Na+ absorption was completely abolished by the Src family inhibitor 4-amino-5-(4-chlorophenyl)-7-(t-butyl)pyrazolo[3,4-d]pyrimidine (PP2). Moreover, the carbachol-induced increase in the size of NHE3-containing complexes was reversed by PP2. These data demonstrate that regulation of NHE3 activity by carbachol can be achieved at several interrelated levels: (1) the subcellular level, at which NHE3 is rapidly endocytosed from BBM to endocytic vesicles upon treatment with carbachol; (2) multiple BBM pools, in which carbachol selectively decreases the amount of NHE3 in the BBM detergent-soluble fraction but not the detergent-resistant membrane; and (3) the molecular level, at which NHE3 complex-associated proteins can be changed upon carbachol treatment, with carbachol leading to larger BBM NHE3 complexes and increased co-IP of NHERF2 with α-actinin-4 and activated PKC. The study further describes NHE3 presence simultaneously in multiple dynamic BBM pools in which NHE3 distribution and associated proteins are altered as part of carbachol-induced and Src-mediated rapid signal transduction, which decreases the amount of BBM NHE3 and thus inhibits NHE3 activity. PMID:14978207

Phosphoglycerate Mutase 1 Coordinates Glycolysis and Biosynthesis to Promote Tumor Growth

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

Hitosugi, Taro; Zhou, Lu; Elf, Shannon

2012-11-12

It is unclear how cancer cells coordinate glycolysis and biosynthesis to support rapidly growing tumors. We found that the glycolytic enzyme phosphoglycerate mutase 1 (PGAM1), commonly upregulated in human cancers due to loss of TP53, contributes to biosynthesis regulation partially by controlling intracellular levels of its substrate, 3-phosphoglycerate (3-PG), and product, 2-phosphoglycerate (2-PG). 3-PG binds to and inhibits 6-phosphogluconate dehydrogenase in the oxidative pentose phosphate pathway (PPP), while 2-PG activates 3-phosphoglycerate dehydrogenase to provide feedback control of 3-PG levels. Inhibition of PGAM1 by shRNA or a small molecule inhibitor PGMI-004A results in increased 3-PG and decreased 2-PG levels in cancermore » cells, leading to significantly decreased glycolysis, PPP flux and biosynthesis, as well as attenuated cell proliferation and tumor growth.« less

Microangiopathic hemolytic anemia associated with metastatic breast cancer: case report and literature review.

PubMed

Takabatake, Daisuke; Oishi, Kazuyuki

2016-01-01

Microangiopathic hemolytic anemia (MAHA) is a mechanical hemolytic anemia characterized by the emergence of fragmented red cells in peripheral blood. Here, we report a case of breast cancer associated with cancer-related (CR)-MAHA along with a literature review. The patient was a 54-year-old woman who made an emergency visit to our hospital because of low back pain, shoulder pain, visual impairment, and anemia. She was diagnosed with stage IV, ER-positive, PgR-positive, HER2-negative left breast cancer (invasive lobular carcinoma), with left axillary adenopathy, metastasis to the soft tissue of the orbital region, multiple bone metastases, pleural dissemination, and metastasis to the stomach and para-aortic lymph nodes. Chemotherapy was initiated successfully; tumor marker levels normalized and the visceral metastases almost disappeared. Hormone therapy was administered for maintenance. Two and a half years later, rapid elevation in tumor marker levels and severe anemia were noted, and fragmented red cells and poikilocytes emerged in the peripheral blood. Positron emission tomography-computed tomography and bone scintigraphy revealed multiple bone metastases, but no evidence of visceral metastasis. CR-MAHA associated with multiple bone metastases was diagnosed, and Paclitaxel chemotherapy was initiated with frequent blood transfusions. Her anemia gradually improved, with a decrease in tumor marker levels and the number of blood transfusions. Three months later, tumor marker levels increased again. Because the anemia was also exacerbated, chemotherapy was changed to eribulin. Tumor marker levels temporally decreased, and the anemia tended to improve, but 3 months later, the levels were elevated again and the anemia was exacerbated. A switch to another regimen was planned, but best supportive care was chosen instead because of rapid deterioration of liver function. The patient died a month later. CR-MAHA is thought to have a different pathologic mechanism from TTP or HUS. Although CR-MAHA is a clinical condition associated with a very poor prognosis, we consider it controllable for long period by rapid introduction of chemotherapy in many cases. CR-MAHA is a nearly oncologic emergency that medical oncologists need to be able to recognize even though it rarely occurs in breast cancer.

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

Chen, X; Wang, J; Hu, W

Purpose: The Varian RapidPlan™ is a commercial knowledge-based optimization process which uses a set of clinically used treatment plans to train a model that can predict individualized dose-volume objectives. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the performance of RapidPlan to generate intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) plans for cervical cancer. Methods: Totally 70 IMRT plans for cervical cancer with varying clinical and physiological indications were enrolled in this study. These patients were all previously treated in our institution. There were two prescription levels usually used in our institution: 45Gy/25 fractions and 50.4Gy/28 fractions. 50 of these plans weremore » selected to train the RapidPlan model for predicting dose-volume constraints. After model training, this model was validated with 10 plans from training pool(internal validation) and additional other 20 new plans(external validation). All plans used for the validation were re-optimized with the original beam configuration and the generated priorities from RapidPlan were manually adjusted to ensure that re-optimized DVH located in the range of the model prediction. DVH quantitative analysis was performed to compare the RapidPlan generated and the original manual optimized plans. Results: For all the validation cases, RapidPlan based plans (RapidPlan) showed similar or superior results compared to the manual optimized ones. RapidPlan increased the result of D98% and homogeneity in both two validations. For organs at risk, the RapidPlan decreased mean doses of bladder by 1.25Gy/1.13Gy (internal/external validation) on average, with p=0.12/p<0.01. The mean dose of rectum and bowel were also decreased by an average of 2.64Gy/0.83Gy and 0.66Gy/1.05Gy,with p<0.01/ p<0.01and p=0.04/<0.01 for the internal/external validation, respectively. Conclusion: The RapidPlan model based cervical cancer plans shows ability to systematically improve the IMRT plan quality. It suggests that RapidPlan has great potential to make the treatment planning process more efficient.« less

Aniline Is Rapidly Converted Into Paracetamol Impairing Male Reproductive Development.

PubMed

Holm, Jacob Bak; Chalmey, Clementine; Modick, Hendrik; Jensen, Lars Skovgaard; Dierkes, Georg; Weiss, Tobias; Jensen, Benjamin Anderschou Holbech; Nørregård, Mette Marie; Borkowski, Kamil; Styrishave, Bjarne; Martin Koch, Holger; Mazaud-Guittot, Severine; Jegou, Bernard; Kristiansen, Karsten; Kristensen, David Møbjerg

2015-11-01

Industrial use of aniline is increasing worldwide with production estimated to surpass 5.6 million metric tons in 2016. Exposure to aniline occurs via air, diet, and water augmenting the risk of exposing a large number of individuals. Early observations suggest that aniline is metabolized to paracetamol/acetaminophen, likely explaining the omnipresence of low concentrations of paracetamol in European populations. This is of concern as recent studies implicate paracetamol as a disrupter of reproduction. Here, we show through steroidogenic profiling that exposure to aniline led to increased levels of the Δ4 steroids, suggesting that the activity of CYP21 was decreased. By contrast, paracetamol decreased levels of androgens likely through inhibition of CYP17A1 activity. We confirm that aniline in vivo is rapidly converted to paracetamol by the liver. Intrauterine exposure to aniline and paracetamol in environmental and pharmaceutical relevant doses resulted in shortening of the anogenital distance in mice, a sensitive marker of fetal androgen levels that in humans is associated with reproductive malformations and later life reproductive disorders. In conclusion, our results provide evidence for a scenario where aniline, through its conversion into antiandrogenic paracetamol, impairs male reproductive development. © The Author 2015. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Society of Toxicology. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Thermoregulatory and Cardiovascular Consequences of a Transient Thyrotoxicosis and Recovery in Male Mice.

PubMed

Hoefig, Carolin S; Harder, Lisbeth; Oelkrug, Rebecca; Meusel, Moritz; Vennström, Björn; Brabant, Georg; Mittag, Jens

2016-07-01

Thyroid hormones play a major role in body homeostasis, regulating energy expenditure and cardiovascular function. Given that obese people or athletes might consider rapid weight loss as beneficial, voluntary intoxication with T4 preparations is a growing cause for thyrotoxicosis. However, the long-lasting effects of transient thyrotoxicosis are poorly understood. Here we examined metabolic, thermoregulatory, and cardiovascular function upon induction and recovery from a 2-week thyrotoxicosis in male C57BL/6J mice. Our results showed that T4 treatment caused tachycardia, decreased hepatic glycogen stores, and higher body temperature as expected; however, we did not observe an increase in brown fat thermogenesis or decreased tail heat loss, suggesting that these tissues do not contribute to the hyperthermia induced by thyroid hormone. Most interestingly, when the T4 treatment was ended, a pronounced bradycardia was observed in the animals, which was likely caused by a rapid decline of T3 even below baseline levels. On the molecular level, this was accompanied by an overexpression of cardiac phospholamban and Serca2a mRNA, supporting the hypothesis that the heart depends more on T3 than T4. Our findings therefore demonstrate that a transient thyrotoxicosis can have pathological effects that even persist beyond the recovery of serum T4 levels, and in particular the observed bradycardia could be of clinical relevance when treating hyperthyroid patients.

The political economy of trade liberalization and environmental policy

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

Fredriksson, P.G.

1999-01-01

A pressure group model where environmental and industry lobby groups offer political support in return for favorable pollution tax policies is used to explain and predict the equilibrium pollution tax in sectors protected by tariffs. The political economy effects of trade liberalization are investigated. The pollution tax is shown to decrease if the lobbying effort by the environmental lobby decreases more rapidly than by the industry lobby Ceteris paribus. The level of political conflict falls with trade liberalization. Pollution may increase because of a reduction of the pollution tax, and tax revenues may fall simultaneously as pollution increases.

Cold-Induced Accumulation of hsp90 Transcripts in Brassica napus.

PubMed Central

Krishna, P.; Sacco, M.; Cherutti, J. F.; Hill, S.

1995-01-01

Characterization of the expression of hsp90 genes of Brassica napus by northern blot analysis and immunoblotting showed that the hsp90 mRNA and protein are present in all B. napus tissues examined, albeit at different levels. High levels of hsp90 mRNA and protein were found in young and rapidly dividing tissues such as shoot apices and flower buds, suggesting that hsp90 may have an important role in plant growth and development. A significant increase in hsp90 mRNA levels was detected in seedlings exposed to 5[deg]C. The transcript levels reached a maximum within 1 d of cold treatment and remained elevated for the entire duration of cold treatment. The levels of hsp90 mRNA rapidly decreased to the level found in control plants upon return to 20[deg]C. The cold-induced accumulation of hsp90 mRNA closely resembles the expression of two previously identified cold-regulated genes of B. napus. We have also confirmed cold regulation of hsp90 mRNA in spinach (Spinacea oleracea). Our results suggest a role for hsp90 in adaptation to cold temperature stress. PMID:12228411

Alterations in brain glutathione homeostasis induced by the nerve gas soman.

PubMed

Klaidman, Lori K; Adams, James D; Cross, Robert; Pazdernik, Thomas L; Samson, Fred

2003-01-01

Public awareness of the dangers of chemical and biological warfare has been heightened in recent times. In particular, chemical nerve agents such as soman and its analogs have been developed and used in war as well as recent incidents, such as in Iraq and Japan. Soman, a rapid acting acetylcholinesterase inhibitor, produces a status epilepticus that leads to extensive neuropathology in vulnerable brain regions (eg, piriform cortex and hippocampus). This study was undertaken to determine whether oxidative mechanisms are involved in brain pathology during soman toxicity. Intracellular thiols such as glutathione (GSH) and protein sulfhydryls (PrSH) are among the most critical antioxidants used to combat oxidative stress. Here we report that during the seizure phase (1 h post soman exposure), PrSH levels in piriform cortex and hippocampus were decreased without changes in glutathione (GSH) levels. However, by 24 h post soman exposure (pathology phase), GSH levels were decreased by nearly 50% in the piriform cortex with a corresponding decrease in PrSH groups. The shift to a more oxidized thiol status indicates that oxygen free radicals likely participate in the neuropathology associated with soman-induced seizures.

HIF-1α and HIF-2α: siblings in promoting angiogenesis of residual hepatocellular carcinoma after high-intensity focused ultrasound ablation.

PubMed

Wu, Lun; Fu, Zhihao; Zhou, Shiji; Gong, Jianping; Liu, Chang An; Qiao, Zhengrong; Li, Shengwei

2014-01-01

High-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) is a widely applied to treatment for unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma. However, insufficient HIFU can result in rapid progression of the residual tumor. The mechanism of such rapid growth of the residual tumor after HIFU ablation is poorly understood. The aim of this study was to investigate the dynamic angiogenesis of residual tumor, and the temporal effect and mechanism of the HIF-1, 2α in the residual tumor angiogenesis. Xenograft tumors of HepG2 cells were created by subcutaneously inoculating nude mice (athymic BALB/c nu/nu mice) with hepatoma cells. About thirty days after inoculation, all mice (except control group) were treated by HIFU and assigned randomly to 7 groups according to various time intervals (1st, 3rd, 5th day (d) and 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th week (w)). The residual tumor tissues were obtained from the experimental groups at various time points. Protein levels of HIF-1α, HIF-2α, VEGF-A, and EphA2 were quantified by immunohistochemistry analysis and Western Blot assays, and mRNA levels measured by Q-PCR. Microvascular density was calculated with counting of CD31 positive vascular endothelial cells by immunohistochemical staining. Compared with the control group, protein and mRNA levels of HIF-1α reached their highest levels on the 3rd day (P<0.01), then decreased (P<0.05). HIF-2α expression reached its highest level on the 2nd week compared with control group (P<0.01), then decreased (2 w-4 w) (P<0.05). The protein and mRNA levels of VEGF-A and EphA2 in the residual tumor tissues group that received HIFU were significantly decreased until 1 week compared with the control group (P<0.01). However, the levels increased compared to controls in 2-4 weeks (P<0.05). Similar results were obtained for MVD expression (P<0.05). Insufficient HIFU ablation promotes the angiogenesis in residual carcinoma tissue over time. The data indicate that the HIF-1, 2α/VEGFA/EphA2 pathway is involved.

Greek Kindergarten Teachers' and Parents' Views about Changes in Play since Their Own Childhood

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Doliopoulou, Elsie; Rizou, Charitomeni

2012-01-01

Play is both a right of children and a learning method for preschoolers and school aged children. It is influenced by all forms of social change on a local and global level. The rapid pace of life and the competitive modern lifestyle, particularly in western societies, are leading to a decrease in spontaneous play and to its replacement by more…

Rapid liver and spleen stiffness improvement in compensated advanced chronic liver disease patients treated with oral antivirals.

PubMed

Pons, Mònica; Santos, Begoña; Simón-Talero, Macarena; Ventura-Cots, Meritxell; Riveiro-Barciela, Mar; Esteban, Rafael; Augustin, Salvador; Genescà, Joan

2017-08-01

We aimed to investigate the early changes in liver and spleen stiffness measurement (LSM, SSM) in hepatitis C virus (HCV) patients with compensated advanced chronic liver disease (cACLD) treated with new antivirals (DAA) to elucidate factors determining the initial change in stiffness and its implications for the long-term follow up of HCV-cured patients. A total of 41 patients with cACLD who started DAA therapy underwent LSM and SSM at baseline, week 4, end of treatment (EOT), 24 and 48 weeks of follow up using transient elastography. LSM improved rapidly during the first 4 weeks of treatment (baseline: 20.8kPa; week 4: 17.5kPa, p = 0.002), with no significant changes between week 4 and EOT (18.3kPa, p = 0.444) and between EOT and 48-week follow up (14.3kPa, p = 0.148). Likewise, SSM improved rapidly (baseline: 45.7kPa; week 4: 33.8kPa, p = 0.047), with no significant changes between week 4 and EOT (30.8kPa, p = 0.153) and between EOT and 48-week follow up (31.2kPa, p = 0.317). A higher decrease in LSM was observed in patients with baseline ALT ⩾ twofold upper limit normal (2 × ULN) than in those with ALT < 2 × ULN (-5.7kPa versus -1.6kPa). Patients who presented a decrease in LSM ⩾ 10% during treatment compared with those with LSM < 10% decrease, showed lower SSM values, higher platelet counts and lower bilirubin levels at 24-week follow up. Those with decrease in SSM ⩾ 10%, presented a higher increase in platelets than those with SSM < 10% change ( p = 0.015). LSM and SSM decrease very rapidly during DAA treatment in cACLD patients suggesting that it most probably reflects a reduction in inflammation rather than in fibrosis. cACLD patients should be maintained under surveillance independently of stiffness changes, because advanced fibrosis can still be present.

Decreased serum L-arginine and L-citrulline levels in major depression.

PubMed

Hess, S; Baker, G; Gyenes, G; Tsuyuki, R; Newman, S; Le Melledo, Jean-Michel

2017-11-01

It has been suggested that endothelial dysfunction caused by a decreased endothelial production of nitric oxide (NO) may contribute to the consistently observed increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD) in physically healthy patients suffering from major depression (MD). NO is a gas synthesized from Larginine (a conditionally essential amino acid) and oxygen by endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS). The end products of NO production include both NO and L-citrulline. NO is rapidly reduced to the anions nitrite and nitrate, classically referred to as NO metabolites. Their measurement has been used as a surrogate measurement for endothelial NO production. We and others have shown decreased levels of NO metabolites in the serum of MD patients. The mechanism of this decreased production of NO by the endothelium has not yet been elucidated. The purpose of this study is to assess serum levels of L-arginine and L-citrulline in patients with MD. Levels of L-arginine and L-citrulline were measured in 35 unmedicated physically healthy MD patients and 36 healthy controls (HCs). L-arginine and L-citrulline concentrations were significantly lower in MD patients than in healthy controls (L-arginine, 73.54 + 21.53 μmol/L and 84.89 + 25.16, p = 0.04 μmol/L and L-citrulline 31.58 + 6.05 μmol/L and 35.19 + 6.85 μmol/L, p = 0.03, respectively). The decrease in L-arginine levels in MD patients is a possible explanation for the decrease in NO metabolites in MD patients and therefore may contribute, through endothelial dysfunction, to the increased CV risk associated with MD.

Clinical symptoms, immune factors, and molecular characteristics of an adult male in Shenzhen, China infected with influenza virus H5N1.

PubMed

Wu, Chunli; Lu, Xing; Wang, Xin; Jin, Tao; Cheng, Xiaowen; Fang, Shisong; Wang, Xiaohui; Ma, Hanwu; Zhang, Renli; Cheng, Jinquan

2013-05-01

On December 29, 2011, a man infected with a subclade of the H5N1 virus was confirmed in Shenzhen, China. The clinical symptoms and immune factors of the patient were investigated and the phylogenetic and molecular characteristics of the virus were analyzed. High fever, rapid development of serious pneumonia and multi-organ failure were the main clinical symptoms. Arterial blood gas analysis showed that PaCO2 rose sharply and PO2 decreased. Leukocyte and platelet counts decreased rapidly. Peripheral blood lymphocyte counts indicated lymphopenia and inverted ratios of CD4(+) to CD8(+) cells. Cytokine analysis showed that the levels of serum IL-6, IL-10, and IFN-r continued to increase, whereas the levels of IL-12 and TNFs decreased during the clinical course. MCP-1 and IP-10 remained at a high level after infection. Phylogenetic analysis confirmed that the virus A/Shenzhen/1/2011 belongs to the new subclade 2.3.2.1. An Arg (R) insertion at P6 and an RP8I substitution in the HA cleavage site motif were detected in the virus. Compared to the vaccine strain, 16 specific substitutions occurred in the HA1 protein. Some of them were located on the receptor-binding site, glycosylation site and the region of the antigenic determinant. In summary, serious complications and immune system disorders were the main features of the infection with H5N1. Gene variation did not weaken the highly pathogenic features of viruses and the pathogenicity and antigenicity of the new subclade virus were changed. Copyright © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Rapid microbiological assay of serum vitamin B12 by electronic counter

PubMed Central

Stuart, J.; Sklaroff, S. A.

1966-01-01

A new method of measuring the growth of Lactobacillus leichmannii is reported. Its adoption for the estimation of serum vitamin B12 levels shortens the incubation period required to five hours at 45°C. The method is compared statistically with a standard method of estimation, requiring incubation at 37°C., by duplicate determinations on 106 hospital patients. The significance of the apparently decreased accuracy of the new method at low serum levels is discussed, and a re-appraisal of the optimum growth temperature of Lactobacillus leichmannii suggested. PMID:5904982

Rapid microbiological assay of serum vitamin B 12 by electronic counter.

PubMed

Stuart, J; Sklaroff, S A

1966-01-01

A new method of measuring the growth of Lactobacillus leichmannii is reported. Its adoption for the estimation of serum vitamin B(12) levels shortens the incubation period required to five hours at 45 degrees C. The method is compared statistically with a standard method of estimation, requiring incubation at 37 degrees C., by duplicate determinations on 106 hospital patients. The significance of the apparently decreased accuracy of the new method at low serum levels is discussed, and a re-appraisal of the optimum growth temperature of Lactobacillus leichmannii suggested.

[The adaptive pharmacological correction of functional disorders in young recruits with hypotrophy].

PubMed

Buchnov, A D; Grechko, A T; Murga, Ia T

2000-04-01

Low level of physical development, physiologic reserves, signs of psychical disadaptation, frequent functional disorders in cardiovascular system and gastrointestinal tract are noted in recruits with hypotrophy. Using of rapidly acting adaptogenes during 1 month (phytopreparation elixir "Altai" and "Vitavis" in tablets) significantly improves body state: increase in the level of physiologic reserves, physical working capacity, IMT, body unspecific resistance; improvement in indices of hemodynamics, metabolism and immunity; decrease in asthenization and psychical disadaptation. The state of adaptation and increased resistance in this recruit group remains during the following months of service.

Rapid-onset hypogonadism secondary to crizotinib use in men with metastatic nonsmall cell lung cancer.

PubMed

Weickhardt, Andrew J; Rothman, Micol S; Salian-Mehta, Smita; Kiseljak-Vassiliades, Katja; Oton, Ana B; Doebele, Robert C; Wierman, Margaret E; Camidge, D Ross

2012-11-01

The objective of this study was to document the differences in testosterone (T) levels between crizotinib-treated and noncrizotinib-treated patients with metastatic nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Testosterone levels were measured in 19 men with metastatic NSCLC who received crizotinib and in 19 men with metastatic NSCLC who did not receive crizotinib. Clinical characteristics of the patients were compared, and additional hormone assays were performed as appropriate. Two patients who began crizotinib and 4 patients who had dose interruptions or who stopped crizotinib therapy had serial hormone measurements, permitting the documentation of dynamic hormone changes on and off crizotinib treatment. Total T levels were low (<241 ng/dL) in 19 of 19 (100%) crizotinib-treated men and in 6 of 19 men (32%) with metastatic NSCLC who did not receive crizotinib (mean T levels, 131 ng/dL and 311 ng/dL, respectively; P = .0002). Only 1 in 5 patients who had anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) gene rearrangements and had not yet received crizotinib had low T. The initiation of crizotinib in 2 patients who had previously normal T levels was associated with a rapid decreases in T and in luteinizing hormone and follicle stimulating hormone levels within 14 to 21 days. Discontinuation of crizotinib led to increases back to normal T levels. Crizotinib therapy caused rapid suppression of T levels in men. The current results indicated that the site of action must include a central (hypothalamic or pituitary) effect, but additional direct testicular effects could not be excluded. Further work is required to assess the correlation between low T levels and crizotinib side effects as well as the exact molecular mechanism and site of drug toxicity. Copyright © 2012 American Cancer Society.

Improvement of band gap profile in Cu(InGa)Se{sub 2} solar cells through rapid thermal annealing

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

Chen, D.S.; College of Mathematics and Physics, Shanghai University of Electric Power, Shanghai, 200090; Yang, J.

Highlights: • Proper RTA treatment can effectively optimize band gap profile to more expected level. • Inter-diffusion of atoms account for the improvement of the graded band gap profile. • The variation of the band gap profile created an absolute gain in the efficiency by 1.22%. - Abstract: In the paper, the effect of rapid thermal annealing on non-optimal double-graded band gap profiles was investigated by using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and capacitance–voltage measurement techniques. Experimental results revealed that proper rapid thermal annealing treatment can effectively improve band gap profile to more optimal level. The annealing treatment could not only reducemore » the values of front band gap and minimum band gap, but also shift the position of the minimum band gap toward front electrode and enter into space charge region. In addition, the thickness of Cu(InGa)Se{sub 2} thin film decreased by 25 nm after rapid thermal annealing treatment. All of these modifications were attributed to the inter-diffusion of atoms during thermal treatment process. Simultaneously, the variation of the band gap profile created an absolute gain in the efficiency by 1.22%, short-circuit current density by 2.16 mA/cm{sup 2} and filled factor by 3.57%.« less

[Changes in Spatial Organization of Cortical Rhythm Vibrations in Children uner the Influence of Music].

PubMed

Shepovalnikov, A N; Egorov, M V

2015-01-01

Changes is systemic brain activity under influence of classical music (minor and major music) were studied at two groups of healthy children aged 5-6 years (n = 53). In 25 of studied children the Luscher test showed increased level of anxiety which significantly decreased after music therapy sessions. Bioelectrical cortical activity registered from 20 unipolar leads was subjected to correlation, coherence and factor analysis. Also the dynamics of the power spectrum for each of the EEG was studied. According to EEG all children after listening to both minor and major tones showed reorganization of brain rhythm structure accompanied by a decrease in the level of coherence and correlation of EEG; also was found significant and almost universal decrease in the EEG power spectrum. Registered EEG changes under the influence of classical music seems to reflect a decrease in excess of "internal tension" and weakening degree of "stiffness" to ensure the activity of cerebral structures responsible for mechanisms of "basic integration" which maintain constant readiness of brain to rapid and complete inclusion in action.

Changes in cholecystokinin and peptide Y gene expression with feeding in yellowtail (Seriola quinqueradiata): relation to pancreatic exocrine regulation.

PubMed

Murashita, Koji; Fukada, Haruhisa; Hosokawa, Hidetsuyo; Masumoto, Toshiro

2007-03-01

In fish, the regulation of digestive enzyme secretion by hormonal control such as cholecystokinin (CCK) and neuropeptide Y (NPY)-related peptide is not well understood. To investigate the roles of fish CCK and peptide Y (PY) in digestive enzyme secretion, mRNA levels of CCK and PY, pyloric caeca enzyme activities and mRNA levels of pancreatic digestive enzymes (lipase, trypsin and amylase) were measured at pre- and post-prandial stages in yellowtail. Pyloric caeca were sampled at 0, 0.5, 1.5, 3, 6, 12, 24 and 48 h after feeding. The mRNA levels of trypsin and amylase increased after feeding, suggesting that transcription was induced by feed ingestion. Digestive enzyme activities decreased in exocrine pancreas after feeding, suggesting the stored enzyme was secreted from pancreas post-prandially. mRNA levels for CCK displayed a time-dependent increase, peaking between 1.5 and 3 h after-feeding followed by a rapid decrease 3 to 6 h after feeding. The mRNA expression pattern of PY was inverse to the pattern of CCK, decreasing until 1.5 h after feeding and then rising to initial levels by 12 h after feeding. These results suggest that CCK and PY work antagonistically in the exocrine pancreas of yellowtail.

Transfer RNAs Mediate the Rapid Adaptation of Escherichia coli to Oxidative Stress

PubMed Central

Du, Gaofei; Sun, Xuesong; He, Qing-Yu; Zhang, Gong

2015-01-01

Translational systems can respond promptly to sudden environmental changes to provide rapid adaptations to environmental stress. Unlike the well-studied translational responses to oxidative stress in eukaryotic systems, little is known regarding how prokaryotes respond rapidly to oxidative stress in terms of translation. In this study, we measured protein synthesis from the entire Escherichia coli proteome and found that protein synthesis was severely slowed down under oxidative stress. With unchanged translation initiation, this slowdown was caused by decreased translation elongation speed. We further confirmed by tRNA sequencing and qRT-PCR that this deceleration was caused by a global, enzymatic downregulation of almost all tRNA species shortly after exposure to oxidative agents. Elevation in tRNA levels accelerated translation and protected E. coli against oxidative stress caused by hydrogen peroxide and the antibiotic ciprofloxacin. Our results showed that the global regulation of tRNAs mediates the rapid adjustment of the E. coli translation system for prompt adaptation to oxidative stress. PMID:26090660

Clinical efficacy of omalizumab in chronic spontaneous urticaria is associated with a reduction of FcεRI-positive cells in the skin.

PubMed

Metz, Martin; Staubach, Petra; Bauer, Andrea; Brehler, Randolf; Gericke, Janine; Kangas, Michael; Ashton-Chess, Joanna; Jarvis, Philip; Georgiou, Panayiotis; Canvin, Janice; Hillenbrand, Rainer; Erpenbeck, Veit J; Maurer, Marcus

2017-01-01

Background. Treatment with omalizumab, a humanized recombinant monoclonal anti-IgE antibody, results in clinical efficacy in patients with Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria (CSU). The mechanism of action of omalizumab in CSU has not been elucidated in detail. Objectives. To determine the effects of omalizumab on levels of high affinity IgE receptor-positive (FcεRI + ) and IgE-positive (IgE + ) dermal cells and blood basophils. Treatment efficacy and safety were also assessed. Study design. In a double-blind study, CSU patients aged 18‑75 years were randomized to receive 300 mg omalizumab (n=20) or placebo (n=10) subcutaneously every 4 weeks for 12 weeks. Changes in disease activity were assessed by use of the weekly Urticaria Activity Score (UAS7). Circulating IgE levels, basophil numbers and levels of expression of FcεRI + and IgE + cells in the skin and in blood basophils were determined. Results. Patients receiving omalizumab showed a significantly greater decrease in UAS7 compared with patients receiving placebo. At Week 12 the mean difference in UAS7 between treatment groups was -14.82 (p=0.0027), consistent with previous studies. Total IgE levels in serum were increased after omalizumab treatment and remained elevated up to Week 12. Free IgE levels decreased after omalizumab treatment. Mean levels of FcεRI + skin cells in patients treated with omalizumab 300 mg were decreased at Week 12 compared with baseline in the dermis of both non-lesional and lesional skin, reaching levels comparable with those seen in healthy volunteers (HVs). There were no statistically significant changes in mean FcɛRI + cell levels in the placebo group. Similar results were seen for changes in IgE + cells, although the changes were not statistically significant. The level of peripheral blood basophils increased immediately after treatment start and returned to Baseline values after the follow-up period. The levels of FcεRI and IgE expression on peripheral blood basophils were rapidly reduced by omalizumab treatment up to Week 12. Conclusions. Treatment with omalizumab resulted in rapid clinical benefits in patients with CSU. Treatment with omalizumab was associated with reduction in FcɛRI + and IgE + basophils and intradermal cells.

Age related testosterone level changes and male andropause syndrome.

PubMed

Wu, C Y; Yu, T J; Chen, M J

2000-06-01

Much like the menopause syndrome occurring among older women, a similar condition has been defined among men. Testosterone production increases rapidly at the onset of puberty, then dwindles quickly after age 50 to become 20 to 50% of the peak level by age 80. Many men older than age 50 have experienced frailty syndrome, which includes decrease of libido, easy fatigue, mood disturbance, accelerated osteoporosis, and decreased muscle strength. We investigated serum total testosterone levels and andropause syndrome in men. Serum total testosterone levels were measured in 53 symptomatic men older than age 50 and in 48 men younger than age 40 for a control group. We also analyzed andropause symptoms among the 53 men older than age 50. The mean serum total testosterone level in the symptomatic men older than age 50 (mean: 2.68 +/- 0.51 ng/ml, range: 1.21 to 4.13 ng/ml) was significantly lower than that in the control group (mean: 7.01 +/- 0.82 ng/ml, range: 5.53 ng/ml to 8.14 ng/ml). Male frailty syndrome in these men older than 50 included: decreased libido (91%), lack of energy (89%), erection problems (79%), falling asleep after dinner (77%), memory impairment (77%), loss of pubic hair (70%), sad or grumpy mood changes (68%), decrease in endurance (66%), loss of axillary hair (55%), and deterioration in work performance (51%). The serum total testosterone level showed a decline with aging, especially in the men older than age 50. Low serum testosterone levels were also associated with the symptoms of male andropause syndrome.

Valeriana wallichii root extract improves sleep quality and modulates brain monoamine level in rats.

PubMed

Sahu, Surajit; Ray, Koushik; Yogendra Kumar, M S; Gupta, Shilpa; Kauser, Hina; Kumar, Sanjeev; Mishra, Kshipra; Panjwani, Usha

2012-07-15

The present study was performed to investigate the effects of Valeriana wallichi (VW) aqueous root extract on sleep-wake profile and level of brain monoamines on Sprague-Dawley rats. Electrodes and transmitters were implanted to record EEG and EMG in freely moving condition and the changes were recorded telemetrically after oral administration of VW in the doses of 100, 200 and 300 mg/kg body weight. Sleep latency was decreased and duration of non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep was increased in a dose dependent manner. A significant decrease of sleep latency and duration of wakefulness were observed with VW at doses of 200 and 300 mg/kg. Duration of NREM sleep as well as duration of total sleep was increased significantly after treatment with VW at the doses of 200 and 300 mg/kg. VW also increased EEG slow wave activity during NREM sleep at the doses of 200 and 300 mg/kg. Level of norepinephrine (NE), dopamine (DA), dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC), serotonin (5-HT) and hydroxy indole acetic acid (HIAA) were measured in frontal cortex and brain stem after VW treatment at the dose of 200mg/kg. NE and 5HT level were decreased significantly in both frontal cortex and brain stem. DA and HIAA level significantly decreased only in cortex. DOPAC level was not changed in any brain region studied. In conclusion it can be said that VW water extract has a sleep quality improving effect which may be dependent upon levels of monoamines in cortex and brainstem. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.

Evaluation of a microwave based reactor for the treatment of blackwater sludge

PubMed Central

Mawioo, Peter M.; Rweyemamu, Audax; Garcia, Hector A.; Hooijmans, Christine M.; Brdjanovic, Damir

2016-01-01

A laboratory-scale microwave (MW) unit was applied to treat fresh blackwater sludge that represented fecal sludge (FS) produced at heavily used toilet facilities. The sludge was exposed to MW irradiation at different power levels and for various durations. Variables such as sludge volume and pathogen reduction were observed. The results demonstrated that the MW is a rapid and efficient technology that can reduce the sludge volume by over 70% in these experimental conditions. The concentration of bacterial pathogenic indicator E. coli also decreased to below the analytical detection levels. Furthermore, the results indicated that the MW operational conditions including radiation power and contact time can be varied to achieve the desired sludge volume and pathogen reduction. MW technology can be further explored for the potential scaling-up as an option for rapid treatment of FS from intensively used sanitation facilities such as in emergency situations. PMID:26799809

Rotor noise due to atmospheric turbulence ingestion. II - Aeroacoustic results

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Amiet, R. K.; Simonich, J. C.; Schlinker, R. H.

1986-01-01

A computer program for the prediction of noise due to the turbulence of inflow to a propeller or helicopter rotor is extended to the case of nonisotropic turbulence, on the basis of a combined mean flow contraction model and rapid distortion theory. The mean flow distortion is noted to stretch the turbulence, decreasing the velocities along the principal axis of the stretching. In the case of a principal stretching axis lying close to the rotor axis, the distortion acts to decrease the upwash velocities of the rotor: thereby decreasing the noise from levels associated with isotropic turbulence. Acoustic energies are calculated at observer location for several cases, and compared to the turbulence energy as affected by the contraction.

Flame Structure and Emissions of Strongly-Pulsed Turbulent Diffusion Flames with Swirl

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liao, Ying-Hao

This work studies the turbulent flame structure, the reaction-zone structure and the exhaust emissions of strongly-pulsed, non-premixed flames with co-flow swirl. The fuel injection is controlled by strongly-pulsing the fuel flow by a fast-response solenoid valve such that the fuel flow is completely shut off between pulses. This control strategy allows the fuel injection to be controlled over a wide range of operating conditions, allowing the flame structure to range from isolated fully-modulated puffs to interacting puffs to steady flames. The swirl level is controlled by varying the ratio of the volumetric flow rate of the tangential air to that of the axial air. For strongly-pulsed flames, both with and without swirl, the flame geometry is strongly impacted by the injection time. Flames appear to exhibit compact, puff-like structures for short injection times, while elongated flames, similar in behaviors to steady flames, occur for long injection times. The flames with swirl are found to be shorter for the same fuel injection conditions. The separation/interaction level between flame puffs in these flames is essentially governed by the jet-off time. The separation between flame puffs decreases as swirl is imposed, consistent with the decrease in flame puff celerity due to swirl. The decreased flame length and flame puff celerity are consistent with an increased rate of air entrainment due to swirl. The highest levels of CO emissions are generally found for compact, isolated flame puffs, consistent with the rapid quenching due to rapid dilution with excess air. The imposition of swirl generally results in a decrease in CO levels, suggesting more rapid and complete fuel/air mixing by imposing swirl in the co-flow stream. The levels of NO emissions for most cases are generally below the steady-flame value. The NO levels become comparable to the steady-flame value for sufficiently short jet-off time. The swirled co-flow air can, in some cases, increase the NO emissions. The elevated NO emissions are due to a longer combustion residence time due to the flow recirculation within the swirl-induced recirculation zone. The reaction zone structure, based on OH planar laser-induced fluorescence (PLIF) is broadly consistent with the observation of luminous flame structure for these types of flames. In many cases, the reaction zone exhibits discontinuities at the instantaneous flame tip in the early period of fuel injection. These discontinuities in the reaction zone likely result from the non-ignition of injected fuel, due to a relatively slower reaction rate in comparison with the mixing rate. The discontinuity in the OH zone is generally seen to diminish with increased swirl level. Statistics generated from the OH PLIF signals show that the reaction zone area generally increases with increased swirl level, consistent with a broader and more convoluted OH-zone structure for flames with swirl. The reaction zone area for swirled flames generally exhibits a higher degree of fluctuation, suggesting a relatively stronger impact of flow turbulence on the flame structure for flames with swirl.

Involvement of Ca2+ in Vacuole Degradation Caused by a Rapid Temperature Decrease in Saintpaulia Palisade Cells: A Case of Gene Expression Analysis in a Specialized Small Tissue.

PubMed

Ohnishi, Miwa; Kadohama, Noriaki; Suzuki, Yoshihiro; Kajiyama, Tomoharu; Shichijo, Chizuko; Ishizaki, Kimitsune; Fukaki, Hidehiro; Iida, Hidetoshi; Kambara, Hideki; Mimura, Tetsuro

2015-07-01

Saintpaulia (African violet) leaves are known to be damaged by a rapid temperature decrease when cold water is applied to the leaf surface; the injury is ascribed to the chloroplast damage caused by the cytosolic pH decrease following the degradation of the vacuolar membrane in the palisade cells. In this report, we present evidence for the involvement of Ca(2+) in facilitating the collapse of the vacuolar membrane and in turn in the temperature sensitivity of Saintpaulia leaves. In the presence of a Ca(2+) chelator (EGTA) or certain Ca(2+) channel inhibitors (Gd(3+) or La(3+)) but not others (verapamil or nifedipine), the pH of the vacuole, monitored through BCECF (2',7'-bis(carboxyethyl)-4 or 5-carboxyfluorescein) fluorescence, did not increase in response to a rapid temperature drop. These pharmacological observations are consistent with the involvement of mechanosensitive Ca(2+) channels in the collapse of the vacuolar membrane. The high level of expression of an MCA- (Arabidopsis mechanosensitive Ca(2+) channel) like gene, a likely candidate for a mechanosensitive Ca(2+) channel(s) in plant cells, was confirmed in the palisade tissue in Saintpaulia leaves by using a newly developed method of gene expression analysis for the specialized small tissues. © The Author 2015. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of Japanese Society of Plant Physiologists. All rights reserved. For permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Widespread Albedo Decreasing and Induced Melting of Himalayan Snow and Ice in the Early 21st Century

PubMed Central

Ming, Jing; Wang, Yaqiang; Du, Zhencai; Zhang, Tong; Guo, Wanqin; Xiao, Cunde; Xu, Xiaobin; Ding, Minghu; Zhang, Dongqi; Yang, Wen

2015-01-01

Background The widely distributed glaciers in the greater Himalayan region have generally experienced rapid shrinkage since the 1850s. As invaluable sources of water and because of their scarcity, these glaciers are extremely important. Beginning in the twenty-first century, new methods have been applied to measure the mass budget of these glaciers. Investigations have shown that the albedo is an important parameter that affects the melting of Himalayan glaciers. Methodology/Principal Findings The surface albedo based on the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) data over the Hindu Kush, Karakoram and Himalaya (HKH) glaciers is surveyed in this study for the period 2000–2011. The general albedo trend shows that the glaciers have been darkening since 2000. The most rapid decrease in the surface albedo has occurred in the glacial area above 6000 m, which implies that melting will likely extend to snow accumulation areas. The mass-loss equivalent (MLE) of the HKH glacial area caused by surface shortwave radiation absorption is estimated to be 10.4 Gt yr-1, which may contribute to 1.2% of the global sea level rise on annual average (2003–2009). Conclusions/Significance This work probably presents a first scene depicting the albedo variations over the whole HKH glacial area during the period 2000–2011. Most rapidly decreasing in albedo has been detected in the highest area, which deserves to be especially concerned. PMID:26039088

Heart rate variabilty changes during first week of acclimatization to 3500 m altitude in Indian military personnel.

PubMed

Bhaumik, G; Dass, D; Bhattacharyya, D; Sharma, Y K; Singh, S B

2013-01-01

Acute exposure to hypobaric hypoxia induces the changes in autonomic control of heart rate. Due to emergencies or war like conditions, rapid deployment of Indian military personnel into high altitude frequently occurs. Rapid deployment to high altitude soldiers are at risk of developing high altitude sickness. The present study was conducted to evaluate the acute exposure to high altitude hypobaric hypoxia (3500 m altitude) on the autonomic nervous control of heart rate in Indian military personnel during first week of acclimatization Indices of heart rate variability (viz; R-R interval, total power, low frequency, high frequency, ratio of low to high frequency) and pulse arterial oxygen saturation were measured at sea level and 3500m altitude. Power spectrum of heart rate variability was quantified by low frequency (LF: 0.04-0.15 Hz) and high frequency (HF: 0.15-0.5 Hz) widths. The ratio of LF to HF was also assessed as an index of the sympathovagal balance. Mean R-R interval decreased significantly on day 2 on induction to altitude which tended to increase on day 5. Total power (TP) decreased high altitude and tended to recover within a week. Both HF and LF power showed decrement at 3500m in comparison to sea level. The ratio of LF to HF (LF/HF) at 3500m was significantly higher at 3500m. SpO2 values decreased significantly (P < 0.05) at high altitude on day-2 which increased on day-5. We conclude that autonomic control of the heart rate measured by heart rate variability was altered on acute induction to 3500m which showed a significant decrease in parasympathetic tone and increase in sympathetic tone, then acclimatization seems to be characterized by progressive shift toward a higher parasympathetic tone.

Trends of VOC exposures among a nationally representative sample: Analysis of the NHANES 1988 through 2004 data sets

PubMed Central

Su, Feng-Chiao; Mukherjee, Bhramar; Batterman, Stuart

2015-01-01

Exposures to volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are ubiquitous due to emissions from personal, commercial and industrial products, but quantitative and representative information regarding long term exposure trends is lacking. This study characterizes trends from1988 to 2004 for the 15 VOCs measured in blood in five cohorts of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), a large and representative sample of U.S. adults. Trends were evaluated at various percentiles using linear quantile regression (QR) models, which were adjusted for solvent-related occupations and cotinine levels. Most VOCs showed decreasing trends at all quantiles, e.g., median exposures declined by 2.5 (m, p-xylene) to 6.4 (tetrachloroethene) percent per year over the 15 year period. Trends varied by VOC and quantile, and were grouped into three patterns: similar decreases at all quantiles (including benzene, toluene); most rapid decreases at upper quantiles (ethylbenzene, m, p-xylene, o-xylene, styrene, chloroform, tetrachloroethene); and fastest declines at central quantiles (1,4-dichlorobenzene). These patterns reflect changes in exposure sources, e.g., upper-percentile exposures may result mostly from occupational exposure, while lower percentile exposures arise from general environmental sources. Both VOC emissions aggregated at the national level and VOC concentrations measured in ambient air also have declined substantially over the study period and are supportive of the exposure trends, although the NHANES data suggest the importance of indoor sources and personal activities on VOC exposures. While piecewise QR models suggest that exposures of several VOCs decreased little or any during the 1990’s, followed by more rapid decreases from 1999 to 2004, questions are raised concerning the reliability of VOC data in several of the NHANES cohorts and its applicability as an exposure indicator, as demonstrated by the modest correlation between VOC levels in blood and personal air collected in the 1999/2000 cohort. Despite some limitations, the NHANES data provides a unique, long term and direct measurement of VOC exposures and trends. PMID:25705111

Beneficial effects of cytokine induced hyperlipidemia.

PubMed

Feingold, K R; Hardardóttir, I; Grunfeld, C

1998-01-01

Infection, inflammation and trauma induce marked changes in the plasma levels of a wide variety of proteins (acute phase response), and these changes are mediated by cytokines. The acute phase response is thought to be beneficial to the host. The host's response to injury also results in dramatic alterations in lipid metabolism and circulating lipoprotein levels which are mediated by cytokines. A large number of cytokines including TNF, the interleukins, and the interferons increase serum triglyceride levels. This rapid increase (1-2 h) is predominantly due to an increase in hepatic VLDL secretion while the late increase may be due to a variety of factors including increased hepatic production of VLDL or delayed clearance secondary to a decrease in lipoprotein lipase activity and/or apolipoprotein E levels on VLDL. In animals other than primates, cytokines also increase serum cholesterol levels, most likely by increasing hepatic cholesterol. Cytokines increase hepatic cholesterol synthesis by stimulating HMG CoA reductase gene expression and decrease hepatic cholesterol catabolism by inhibiting cholesterol 7 alpha-hydroxylase, the key enzyme in bile acid synthesis. Injury and/or cytokines also decrease HDL cholesterol levels and induce alterations in the composition of HDL. The content of SAA and apolipoprotein J increase, apolipoprotein A1 may decrease, and the cholesterol ester content decreases while free cholesterol increases. Additionally, key proteins involved in HDL metabolism are altered by cytokines; LCAT activity, hepatic lipase activity, and CETP levels decrease. These changes in lipid and lipoprotein metabolism may be beneficial in a number of ways including: lipoproteins competing with viruses for cellular receptors, apolipoproteins neutralizing viruses, lipoproteins binding and targeting parasites for destruction, apolipoproteins lysing parasites, redistribution of nutrients to cells involved in the immune response and/or tissue repair, and lipoproteins binding toxic agents and neutralizing their harmful effects. Thus, cytokines induce marked changes in lipid metabolism that lead to hyperlipidemia which represents part of the innate immune response and may be beneficial to the host.

Evaporation variability of Nam Co Lake in the Tibetan Plateau and its role in recent rapid lake expansion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ma, Ning; Szilagyi, Jozsef; Niu, Guo-Yue; Zhang, Yinsheng; Zhang, Teng; Wang, Binbin; Wu, Yanhong

2016-06-01

Previous studies have shown that the majority of the lakes in the Tibetan Plateau (TP) started to expand rapidly since the late 1990s. However, the causes are still not well known. For Nam Co, being a closed lake with no outflow, evaporation (EL) over the lake surface is the only way water may leave the lake. Therefore, quantifying EL is key for investigating the mechanism of lake expansion in the TP. EL can be quantified by Penman- and/or bulk-transfer-type models, requiring only net radiation, temperature, humidity and wind speed for inputs. However, interpolation of wind speed data may be laden with great uncertainty due to extremely sparse ground meteorological observations, the highly heterogeneous landscape and lake-land breeze effects. Here, evaporation of Nam Co Lake was investigated within the 1979-2012 period at a monthly time-scale using the complementary relationship lake evaporation (CRLE) model which does not require wind speed data. Validations by in-situ observations of E601B pan evaporation rates at the shore of Nam Co Lake as well as measured EL over an adjacent small lake using eddy covariance technique suggest that CRLE is capable of simulating EL well since it implicitly considers wind effects on evaporation via its vapor transfer coefficient. The multi-year average of annual evaporation of Nam Co Lake is 635 mm. From 1979 to 2012, annual evaporation of Nam Co Lake expressed a very slight decreasing trend. However, a more significant decrease in EL occurred during 1998-2008 at a rate of -12 mm yr-1. Based on water-level readings, this significant decrease in lake evaporation was found to be responsible for approximately 4% of the reported rapid water level increase and areal expansion of Nam Co Lake during the same period.

Intraoperative Changes in Blood Coagulation and Thrombelastographic Monitoring in Liver Transplantation

PubMed Central

Kang, Yoo Goo; Martin, Douglas J.; Marquez, Jose; Lewis, Jessica H.; Bontempo, Franklin A.; Shaw, Byers W.; Starzl, Thomas E.; Winter, Peter M.

2010-01-01

The blood coagulation system of 66 consecutive patients undergoing consecutive liver transplantations was monitored by thrombelastograph and analytic coagulation profile. A poor preoperative coagulation state, decrease in levels of coagulation factors, progressive fibrinolysis, and whole blood clot lysis were observed during the preanhepatic and anhepatic stages of surgery. A further general decrease in coagulation factors and platelets, activation of fibrinolysis, and abrupt decrease in levels of factors V and VIII occurred before and with reperfusion of the homograft. Recovery of blood coagulability began 30–60 min after reperfusion of the graft liver, and coagulability had returned toward baseline values 2 hr after reperfusion. A positive correlation was shown between the variables of thrombelastography and those of the coagulation profile. Thrombelastography was shown to be a reliable and rapid monitoring system. Its use was associated with a 33% reduction of blood and fluid infusion volume, whereas blood coagulability was maintained without an increase in the number of blood product donors. PMID:3896028

Metabolomic response of Calotropis procera growing in the desert to changes in water availability.

PubMed

Ramadan, Ahmed; Sabir, Jamal S M; Alakilli, Saleha Y M; Shokry, Ahmed M; Gadalla, Nour O; Edris, Sherif; Al-Kordy, Magdy A; Al-Zahrani, Hassan S; El-Domyati, Fotouh M; Bahieldin, Ahmed; Baker, Neil R; Willmitzer, Lothar; Irgang, Susann

2014-01-01

Water availability is a major limitation for agricultural productivity. Plants growing in severe arid climates such as deserts provide tools for studying plant growth and performance under extreme drought conditions. The perennial species Calotropis procera used in this study is a shrub growing in many arid areas which has an exceptional ability to adapt and be productive in severe arid conditions. We describe the results of studying the metabolomic response of wild C procera plants growing in the desert to a one time water supply. Leaves of C. procera plants were taken at three time points before and 1 hour, 6 hours and 12 hours after watering and subjected to a metabolomics and lipidomics analysis. Analysis of the data reveals that within one hour after watering C. procera has already responded on the metabolic level to the sudden water availability as evidenced by major changes such as increased levels of most amino acids, a decrease in sucrose, raffinose and maltitol, a decrease in storage lipids (triacylglycerols) and an increase in membrane lipids including photosynthetic membranes. These changes still prevail at the 6 hour time point after watering however 12 hours after watering the metabolomics data are essentially indistinguishable from the prewatering state thus demonstrating not only a rapid response to water availability but also a rapid response to loss of water. Taken together these data suggest that the ability of C. procera to survive under the very harsh drought conditions prevailing in the desert might be associated with its rapid adjustments to water availability and losses.

Metabolomic Response of Calotropis procera Growing in the Desert to Changes in Water Availability

PubMed Central

Ramadan, Ahmed; Sabir, Jamal S. M.; Alakilli, Saleha Y. M.; Shokry, Ahmed M.; Gadalla, Nour O.; Edris, Sherif; Al-Kordy, Magdy A.; Al-Zahrani, Hassan S.; El-Domyati, Fotouh M.; Bahieldin, Ahmed; Baker, Neil R.; Willmitzer, Lothar; Irgang, Susann

2014-01-01

Water availability is a major limitation for agricultural productivity. Plants growing in severe arid climates such as deserts provide tools for studying plant growth and performance under extreme drought conditions. The perennial species Calotropis procera used in this study is a shrub growing in many arid areas which has an exceptional ability to adapt and be productive in severe arid conditions. We describe the results of studying the metabolomic response of wild C procera plants growing in the desert to a one time water supply. Leaves of C. procera plants were taken at three time points before and 1 hour, 6 hours and 12 hours after watering and subjected to a metabolomics and lipidomics analysis. Analysis of the data reveals that within one hour after watering C. procera has already responded on the metabolic level to the sudden water availability as evidenced by major changes such as increased levels of most amino acids, a decrease in sucrose, raffinose and maltitol, a decrease in storage lipids (triacylglycerols) and an increase in membrane lipids including photosynthetic membranes. These changes still prevail at the 6 hour time point after watering however 12 hours after watering the metabolomics data are essentially indistinguishable from the prewatering state thus demonstrating not only a rapid response to water availability but also a rapid response to loss of water. Taken together these data suggest that the ability of C. procera to survive under the very harsh drought conditions prevailing in the desert might be associated with its rapid adjustments to water availability and losses. PMID:24520340

Decreased glutamate, glutamine and citrulline concentrations in plasma and muscle in endotoxemia cannot be reversed by glutamate or glutamine supplementation: a primary intestinal defect?

PubMed

Boutry, Claire; Matsumoto, Hideki; Bos, Cécile; Moinard, Christophe; Cynober, Luc; Yin, Yulong; Tomé, Daniel; Blachier, François

2012-10-01

Endotoxemia affects intestinal physiology. A decrease of circulating citrulline concentration is considered as a reflection of the intestinal function. Citrulline can be produced in enterocytes notably from glutamate and glutamine. The aim of this work was to determine if glutamate, glutamine and citrulline concentrations in blood, intestine and muscle are decreased by endotoxemia, and if supplementation with glutamate or glutamine can restore normal concentrations. We induced endotoxemia in rats by an intraperitoneal injection of 0.3 mg kg(-1) lipopolysaccharide (LPS). This led to a rapid anorexia, negative nitrogen balance and a transient increase of the circulating level of IL-6 and TNF-α. When compared with the values measured in pair fed (PF) animals, almost all circulating amino acids (AA) including citrulline decreased, suggesting a decrease of intestinal function. However, at D2 after LPS injection, most circulating AA concentrations were closed to the values recorded in the PF group. At that time, among AA, only glutamate, glutamine and citrulline were decreased in gastrocnemius muscle without change in intestinal mucosa. A supplementation with 4% monosodium glutamate (MSG) or an isomolar amount of glutamine failed to restore glutamate, glutamine and citrulline concentrations in plasma and muscle. However, MSG supplementation led to an accumulation of glutamate in the intestinal mucosa. In conclusion, endotoxemia rapidly but transiently decreased the circulating concentrations of almost all AA and more durably of glutamate, glutamine and citrulline in muscle. Supplementation with glutamate or glutamine failed to restore glutamate, glutamine and citrulline concentrations in plasma and muscles. The implication of a loss of the intestinal capacity for AA absorption and/or metabolism in endotoxemia (as judged from decreased citrulline plasma concentration) for explaining such results are discussed.

Developmental Expression of Violaxanthin De-Epoxidase in Leaves of Tobacco Growing under High and Low Light1

PubMed Central

Bugos, Robert C.; Chang, Sue-Hwei; Yamamoto, Harry Y.

1999-01-01

Violaxanthin de-epoxidase (VDE) is a lumen-localized enzyme that catalyzes the de-epoxidation of violaxanthin in the thylakoid membrane upon formation of a transthylakoid pH gradient. We investigated the developmental expression of VDE in leaves of mature tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) plants grown under high-light conditions (in the field) and low-light conditions (in a growth chamber). The difference in light conditions was evident by the increased pool size (violaxanthin + antheraxanthin + zeaxanthin, VAZ) throughout leaf development in field-grown plants. VDE activity based on chlorophyll or leaf area was low in the youngest leaves, with the levels increasing with increasing leaf age in both high- and low-light-grown plants. However, in high-light-grown plants, the younger leaves in early leaf expansion showed a more rapid increase in VDE activity and maintained higher levels of VDE transcript in more leaves, indicating that high light may induce greater levels of VDE. VDE transcript levels decreased substantially in leaves of mid-leaf expansion, while the levels of enzyme continued to increase, suggesting that the VDE enzyme does not turn over rapidly. The level of VDE changed in an inverse, nonlinear relationship with respect to the VAZ pool, suggesting that enzyme levels could be indirectly regulated by the VAZ pool. PMID:10482676

Developmental expression of violaxanthin de-epoxidase in leaves of tobacco growing under high and low light.

PubMed

Bugos, R C; Chang, S H; Yamamoto, H Y

1999-09-01

Violaxanthin de-epoxidase (VDE) is a lumen-localized enzyme that catalyzes the de-epoxidation of violaxanthin in the thylakoid membrane upon formation of a transthylakoid pH gradient. We investigated the developmental expression of VDE in leaves of mature tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) plants grown under high-light conditions (in the field) and low-light conditions (in a growth chamber). The difference in light conditions was evident by the increased pool size (violaxanthin + antheraxanthin + zeaxanthin, VAZ) throughout leaf development in field-grown plants. VDE activity based on chlorophyll or leaf area was low in the youngest leaves, with the levels increasing with increasing leaf age in both high- and low-light-grown plants. However, in high-light-grown plants, the younger leaves in early leaf expansion showed a more rapid increase in VDE activity and maintained higher levels of VDE transcript in more leaves, indicating that high light may induce greater levels of VDE. VDE transcript levels decreased substantially in leaves of mid-leaf expansion, while the levels of enzyme continued to increase, suggesting that the VDE enzyme does not turn over rapidly. The level of VDE changed in an inverse, nonlinear relationship with respect to the VAZ pool, suggesting that enzyme levels could be indirectly regulated by the VAZ pool.

PhoU Allows Rapid Adaptation to High Phosphate Concentrations by Modulating PstSCAB Transport Rate in Sinorhizobium meliloti

PubMed Central

diCenzo, George C.; Sharthiya, Harsh; Nanda, Anish; Zamani, Maryam

2017-01-01

ABSTRACT Maintenance of cellular phosphate homeostasis is essential for cellular life. The PhoU protein has emerged as a key regulator of this process in bacteria, and it is suggested to modulate phosphate import by PstSCAB and control activation of the phosphate limitation response by the PhoR-PhoB two-component system. However, a proper understanding of PhoU has remained elusive due to numerous complications of mutating phoU, including loss of viability and the genetic instability of the mutants. Here, we developed two sets of strains of Sinorhizobium meliloti that overcame these limitations and allowed a more detailed and comprehensive analysis of the biological and molecular activities of PhoU. The data showed that phoU cannot be deleted in the presence of phosphate unless PstSCAB is inactivated also. However, phoU deletions were readily recovered in phosphate-free media, and characterization of these mutants revealed that addition of phosphate to the environment resulted in toxic levels of PstSCAB-mediated phosphate accumulation. Phosphate uptake experiments indicated that PhoU significantly decreased the PstSCAB transport rate specifically in phosphate-replete cells but not in phosphate-starved cells and that PhoU could rapidly respond to elevated environmental phosphate concentrations and decrease the PstSCAB transport rate. Site-directed mutagenesis results suggested that the ability of PhoU to respond to phosphate levels was independent of the conformation of the PstSCAB transporter. Additionally, PhoU-PhoU and PhoU-PhoR interactions were detected using a bacterial two-hybrid screen. We propose that PhoU modulates PstSCAB and PhoR-PhoB in response to local, internal fluctuations in phosphate concentrations resulting from PstSCAB-mediated phosphate import. IMPORTANCE Correct maintenance of cellular phosphate homeostasis is critical in all kingdoms of life and in bacteria involves the PhoU protein. This work provides novel insights into the role of the Sinorhizobium meliloti PhoU protein, which plays a key role in rapid adaptation to elevated phosphate concentrations. It is shown that PhoU rapidly responds to elevated phosphate levels by significantly decreasing the phosphate transport of PstSCAB, thereby preventing phosphate toxicity and cell death. Additionally, a new model for phosphate sensing in bacterial species which involves the PhoR-PhoB two-component system is presented. This work provides new insights into the bacterial response to changing environmental conditions and into regulation of the phosphate limitation response that influences numerous bacterial processes, including antibiotic production and virulence. PMID:28416708

PDK1-dependent activation of atypical PKC leads to degradation of the p21 tumour modifier protein

PubMed Central

Scott, Mary T.; Ingram, Angela; Ball, Kathryn L.

2002-01-01

p21WAF1/CIP1 contributes to positive and negative growth control on multiple levels. We previously mapped phosphorylation sites within the C-terminal domain of p21 that regulate proliferating cell nucear antigen binding. In the current study, a kinase has been fractionated from mammalian cells that stoichiometrically phosphorylates p21 at the Ser146 site, and the enzyme has been identified as an insulin-responsive atypical protein kinase C (aPKC). Expression of PKCζ or activation of the endogenous kinase by 3-phosphoinositide dependent protein kinase-1 (PDK1) decreased the half-life of p21. Conversely, dnPKCζ or dnPDK1 increased p21 protein half-life, and a PDK1-dependent increase in the rate of p21 degradation was mediated by aPKC. Insulin stimulation gave a biphasic response with a rapid transient decrease in p21 protein levels during the initial signalling phase that was dependent on phosphatidylinositol 3- kinase, PKC and proteasome activity. Thus, aPKC provides a physiological signal for the degradation of p21. The rapid degradation of p21 protein during the signalling phase of insulin stimulation identifies a novel link between energy metabolism and a key modulator of cell cycle progression. PMID:12485998

Acute changes in cellular zinc alters zinc uptake rates prior to zinc transporter gene expression in Jurkat cells.

PubMed

Holland, Tai C; Killilea, David W; Shenvi, Swapna V; King, Janet C

2015-12-01

A coordinated network of zinc transporters and binding proteins tightly regulate cellular zinc levels. Canonical responses to zinc availability are thought to be mediated by changes in gene expression of key zinc transporters. We investigated the temporal relationships of actual zinc uptake with patterns of gene expression in membrane-bound zinc transporters in the human immortalized T lymphocyte Jurkat cell line. Cellular zinc levels were elevated or reduced with exogenous zinc sulfate or N,N,N',N-tetrakis(2-pyridylmethyl)ethylenediamine (TPEN), respectively. Excess zinc resulted in a rapid 44 % decrease in the rate of zinc uptake within 10 min. After 120 min, the expression of metallothionein (positive control) increased, as well as the zinc exporter, ZnT1; however, the expression of zinc importers did not change during this time period. Zinc chelation with TPEN resulted in a rapid twofold increase in the rate of zinc uptake within 10 min. After 120 min, the expression of ZnT1 decreased, while again the expression of zinc importers did not change. Overall, zinc transporter gene expression kinetics did not match actual changes in cellular zinc uptake with exogenous zinc or TPEN treatments. This suggests zinc transporter regulation may be the initial response to changes in zinc within Jurkat cells.

Selective accumulation of biotin in arterial chemoreceptors: requirement for carotid body exocytotic dopamine secretion

PubMed Central

Ortega‐Sáenz, Patricia; Macías, David; Levitsky, Konstantin L.; Rodríguez‐Gómez, José A.; González‐Rodríguez, Patricia; Bonilla‐Henao, Victoria; Arias‐Mayenco, Ignacio

2016-01-01

Key points Biotin, a vitamin whose main role is as a coenzyme for carboxylases, accumulates at unusually large amounts within cells of the carotid body (CB).In biotin‐deficient rats biotin rapidly disappears from the blood; however, it remains at relatively high levels in CB glomus cells. The CB contains high levels of mRNA for SLC5a6, a biotin transporter, and SLC19a3, a thiamine transporter regulated by biotin.Animals with biotin deficiency exhibit pronounced metabolic lactic acidosis. Remarkably, glomus cells from these animals have normal electrical and neurochemical properties. However, they show a marked decrease in the size of quantal dopaminergic secretory events.Inhibitors of the vesicular monoamine transporter 2 (VMAT2) mimic the effect of biotin deficiency. In biotin‐deficient animals, VMAT2 protein expression decreases in parallel with biotin depletion in CB cells.These data suggest that dopamine transport and/or storage in small secretory granules in glomus cells depend on biotin. Abstract Biotin is a water‐soluble vitamin required for the function of carboxylases as well as for the regulation of gene expression. Here, we report that biotin accumulates in unusually large amounts in cells of arterial chemoreceptors, carotid body (CB) and adrenal medulla (AM). We show in a biotin‐deficient rat model that the vitamin rapidly disappears from the blood and other tissues (including the AM), while remaining at relatively high levels in the CB. We have also observed that, in comparison with other peripheral neural tissues, CB cells contain high levels of SLC5a6, a biotin transporter, and SLC19a3, a thiamine transporter regulated by biotin. Biotin‐deficient rats show a syndrome characterized by marked weight loss, metabolic lactic acidosis, aciduria and accelerated breathing with normal responsiveness to hypoxia. Remarkably, CB cells from biotin‐deficient animals have normal electrophysiological and neurochemical (ATP levels and catecholamine synthesis) properties; however, they exhibit a marked decrease in the size of quantal catecholaminergic secretory events, which is not seen in AM cells. A similar differential secretory dysfunction is observed in CB cells treated with tetrabenazine, a selective inhibitor of the vesicular monoamine transporter 2 (VMAT2). VMAT2 is highly expressed in glomus cells (in comparison with VMAT1), and in biotin‐deficient animals VMAT2 protein expression decreases in parallel with the decrease of biotin accumulated in CB cells. These data suggest that biotin has an essential role in the homeostasis of dopaminergic transmission modulating the transport and/or storage of transmitters within small secretory granules in glomus cells. PMID:27570189

Difference in human cardiovascular response between upright and supine recovery from upright cycle exercise.

PubMed

Takahashi, T; Okada, A; Saitoh, T; Hayano, J; Miyamoto, Y

2000-02-01

Cardiovascular responses were examined in seven healthy male subjects during 10 min of recovery in the upright or supine position following 5 min of upright cycle exercise at 80% peak oxygen uptake. An initial rapid decrease in heart rate (fc) during the early phase of recovery followed by much slower decrease was observed for both the upright and supine positions. The average fc at the 10th min of recovery was significantly lower (P < 0.05) in the supine position than in the upright position, while they were both significantly greater than the corresponding pre-exercise levels (each P < 0.05). Accordingly, the amplitude of the high frequency (HF) component of R-R interval variability (by spectrum analysis) in both positions was reduced with a decrease in mean R-R interval, the relationship being expressed by a regression line--mean R-R interval = 0.006 x HF amplitude + 0.570 (r = 0.905, n = 28, P < 0.001). These results would suggest that the slower reduction in fc following the initial rapid reduction in both positions is partly attributable to a retardation in the restoration of the activity of the cardiac parasympathetic nervous system. Post-exercise upright stroke volume (SV, by impedance cardiography) decreased gradually to just below the pre-exercise level, whereas post-exercise supine SV increased markedly to a level similar to that at rest before exercise. The resultant cardiac output (Qc) and the total peripheral vascular resistance (TPR) in the upright and supine positions returned gradually to their respective pre-exercise levels in the corresponding positions. At the 10th min of recovery, both average SV and Qc were significantly greater (each P < 0.005) in the supine than in the upright position, while average TPR was significantly lower (P < 0.05) in the supine than in the upright position. In contrast, immediately after exercise, mean blood pressure dropped markedly in both the supine and upright positions, and their levels at the 10th min of recovery were similar. Therefore we concluded that arterial blood pressure is maintained relatively constant through various compensatory mechanisms associated with fc, SV, Qc, and TPR during rest and recovery in different body positions.

Long-distance signaling within Coleus x hybridus leaves; mediated by changes in intra-leaf CO2?

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stahlberg, R.; Van Volkenburgh, E.; Cleland, R. E.

2001-01-01

Rapid long-distance signaling in plants can occur via several mechanisms, including symplastic electric coupling and pressure waves. We show here in variegated Coleus leaves a rapid propagation of electrical signals that appears to be caused by changes in intra-leaf CO2 concentrations. Green leaf cells, when illuminated, undergo a rapid depolarization of their membrane potential (Vm) and an increase in their apoplastic pH (pHa) by a process that requires photosynthesis. This is followed by a slower hyperpolarization of Vm and apoplastic acidification, which do not require photosynthesis. White (chlorophyll-lacking) leaf cells, when in isolated white leaf segments, show only the slow response, but when in mixed (i.e. green and white) segments, the rapid Vm depolarization and increase in pHa propagate over more than 10 mm from the green to the white cells. Similarly, these responses propagate 12-20 mm from illuminated to unilluminated green cells. The fact that the propagation of these responses is eliminated when the leaf air spaces are infiltrated with solution indicates that the signal moves in the apoplast rather than the symplast. A depolarization of the mesophyll cells is induced in the dark by a decrease in apoplastic CO2 but not by an increase in pHa. These results support the hypothesis that the propagating signal for the depolarization of the white mesophyll cells is a photosynthetically induced decrease in the CO2 level of the air spaces throughout the leaf.

Analysis of the relationship between the decrease in pH and accumulation of 3-phosphoglyceric acid in developing forespores of Bacillus species.

PubMed

Magill, N G; Cowan, A E; Leyva-Vazquez, M A; Brown, M; Koppel, D E; Setlow, P

1996-04-01

Analysis of the pH decrease and 3-phosphoglyceric acid (3PGA) accumulation in the forespore compartment of sporulating cells of Bacillus subtilis showed that the pH decrease of 1 to 1.2 units at approximately 4 h of sporulation preceded 3PGA accumulation, as observed previously in B. megaterium. These data, as well as analysis of the forespore pH decrease in asporogenous mutants of B. subtilis, indicated that sigma G-dependent forespore transcription, but not sigma K-dependent mother cell transcription, is required for the forespore pH decrease. Further analysis of these asporogenous mutants showed an excellent correlation between the forespore pH decrease and the forespore's accumulation of 3PGA. These latter results are consistent with our previous suggestion that the decrease in forespore pH results in greatly decreased activity of phosphoglycerate mutase in the forespore, which in turn leads to 3PGA accumulation. In further support of this suggestion, we found that (i) elevating the pH of developing forespores of B. megaterium resulted in rapid utilization of the forespore's 3PGA depot and (ii) increasing forespore levels of PGM approximately 10-fold in B. subtilis resulted in a large decrease in the spore's depot of 3PGA. The B. subtilis strain with a high phosphoglycerate mutase level sporulated, and the spores germinated and went through outgrowth normally, indicating that forespore accumulation of a large 3PGA depot is not essential for these processes.

Interleukin-10 Modulates Antigen Presentation by Dendritic Cells through Regulation of NLRP3 Inflammasome Assembly during Chlamydia Infection

PubMed Central

Omosun, Yusuf; McKeithen, Danielle; Ryans, Khamia; Kibakaya, Caroline; Blas-Machado, Uriel; Li, Duo; Singh, Rajesh; Inoue, Koichi; Xiong, Zhi-Gang; Eko, Francis; Black, Carolyn; Igietseme, Joseph

2015-01-01

Interleukin-10 (IL-10) has been implicated in susceptibility to genital chlamydial infection and the development of tubal pathologies. IL-10 limitation also resulted in the rapid elicitation of immune responses against Chlamydia, and decreased levels of IL-10 correlated with protective anti-Chlamydia immunity. To investigate the molecular basis for these effects, we compared the reproductive pathologies and fertility rates in Chlamydia-infected wild-type (WT) and IL-10-knockout (IL-10−/−) mice; we also analyzed the expression of the Toll-like receptor (TLR)/interleukin-1 receptor (IL-1R) superfamily, IL-1β production, NLRP3 inflammasome assembly and activation, and the immunostimulatory capacity and apoptotic predilection of Chlamydia-exposed dendritic cells (DCs) from WT and IL-10−/− mice. Our results revealed that, in addition to the rapid clearance of infection, genitally infected IL-10−/− mice were protected from tubal pathologies and infertility, whereas WT (IL-10+/+) mice were not. Chlamydia-pulsed IL-10−/− DCs expressed larger numbers of TLR4/IL-1R molecules and had enhanced IL-1β production. In addition, NLRP3 inflammasome assembly was suppressed in IL-10−/− DCs through the inhibition of the P2X purinoceptor 7 (P2X7) receptor (P2X7R), an ATP-gated ion channel, and a decrease in intracellular Ca2+ levels, which inhibited DC apoptosis. Thus, the potent immunostimulatory capacity of IL-10-deficient DCs is due, at least in part, to the suppression of the intracellular inflammasome assembly, which prevents DC apoptosis, allowing efficient antigen presentation. The results indicate that IL-10 deficiency enables efficient antigen presentation by DCs for rapid and enhanced immune activation against Chlamydia, which results in rapid microbial clearance, which prevents tubal pathologies during infection. Our finding has important implications for the induction of protective immunity against Chlamydia and other infectious and noninfectious diseases by vaccines. PMID:26371131

Effects of interferon-gamma and lipopolysaccharide on macrophage iron metabolism are mediated by nitric oxide-induced degradation of iron regulatory protein 2.

PubMed

Kim, S; Ponka, P

2000-03-03

Iron regulatory proteins (IRP-1 and IRP-2) control the synthesis of transferrin receptors (TfR) and ferritin by binding to iron-responsive elements, which are located in the 3'-untranslated region and the 5'-untranslated region of their respective mRNAs. Cellular iron levels affect binding of IRPs to iron-responsive elements and consequently expression of TfR and ferritin. Moreover, NO(*), a redox species of nitric oxide that interacts primarily with iron, can activate IRP-1 RNA binding activity resulting in an increase in TfR mRNA levels. Recently we found that treatment of RAW 264.7 cells (a murine macrophage cell line) with NO(+) (nitrosonium ion, which causes S-nitrosylation of thiol groups) resulted in a rapid decrease in RNA binding of IRP-2 followed by IRP-2 degradation, and these changes were associated with a decrease in TfR mRNA levels (Kim, S., and Ponka, P. (1999) J. Biol. Chem. 274, 33035-33042). In this study, we demonstrated that stimulation of RAW 264.7 cells with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) increased IRP-1 binding activity, whereas RNA binding of IRP-2 decreased and was followed by a degradation of this protein. Moreover, the decrease of IRP-2 binding/protein levels was associated with a decrease in TfR mRNA levels in LPS/IFN-gamma-treated cells, and these changes were prevented by inhibitors of inducible nitric oxide synthase. Furthermore, LPS/IFN-gamma-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells showed increased rates of ferritin synthesis. These results suggest that NO(+)-mediated degradation of IRP-2 plays a major role in iron metabolism during inflammation.

Effects of rapid temperature changes on HK, PK and HSP70 of Litopenaeus vannamei in different seasons

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guo, Biao; Wang, Fang; Dong, Shuanglin; Hou, Chunqiang

2010-09-01

Activities of hexokinase (HK), pyruvate kinase (PK) and levels of HSP70 were measured to evaluate the response of Litopenaeus vannamei to rapid temperature changes under controlled laboratory conditions. Shrimps were subjected to a quick temperature change from 27°C to 17°C for the summer case (Cold temperature treatment), or from 17°C to 27°C for the winter case (Warm temperature treatment). After 0.5, 1, 3, 6, 12, 24, 48, and 72 h of exposure time, shrimps were sampled and prepared for further analysis. The results showed that the effect of acute temperature changes on activities of HK was significant. Patterns of variations of the two glycolytic enzymes suggested that enzymes in the glycolysis cycle could adjust their activities to meet the acute temperature change. The HSP70 level increased in both cold and warm temperature treatments, suggesting that the rapid temperature changes activated the process of body’s self-protection. But the difference in expression peak of HSP70 might be related to the different body size and the higher thermal sensitivity to temperature increase than to temperature decrease of L. vannamei.

Prolonged exposure of chromaffin cells to nitric oxide down-regulates the activity of soluble guanylyl cyclase and corresponding mRNA and protein levels

PubMed Central

Ferrero, Rut; Torres, Magdalena

2002-01-01

Background Soluble guanylyl cyclase (sGC) is the main receptor for nitric oxide (NO) when the latter is produced at low concentrations. This enzyme exists mainly as a heterodimer consisting of one α and one β subunit and converts GTP to the second intracellular messenger cGMP. In turn, cGMP plays a key role in regulating several physiological processes in the nervous system. The aim of the present study was to explore the effects of a NO donor on sGC activity and its protein and subunit mRNA levels in a neural cell model. Results Continuous exposure of bovine adrenal chromaffin cells in culture to the nitric oxide donor, diethylenetriamine NONOate (DETA/NO), resulted in a lower capacity of the cells to synthesize cGMP in response to a subsequent NO stimulus. This effect was not prevented by an increase of intracellular reduced glutathione level. DETA/NO treatment decreased sGC subunit mRNA and β1 subunit protein levels. Both sGC activity and β1 subunit levels decreased more rapidly in chromaffin cells exposed to NO than in cells exposed to the protein synthesis inhibitor, cycloheximide, suggesting that NO decreases β1 subunit stability. The presence of cGMP-dependent protein kinase (PKG) inhibitors effectively prevented the DETA/NO-induced down regulation of sGC subunit mRNA and partially inhibited the reduction in β1 subunits. Conclusions These results suggest that activation of PKG mediates the drop in sGC subunit mRNA levels, and that NO down-regulates sGC activity by decreasing subunit mRNA levels through a cGMP-dependent mechanism, and by reducing β1 subunit stability. PMID:12350235

Dietary supplementation of Haematococcus pluvialis improved the immune capacity and low salinity tolerance ability of post-larval white shrimp, Litopenaeus vannamei.

PubMed

Xie, Shiwei; Fang, Weiping; Wei, Dan; Liu, Yongjian; Yin, Peng; Niu, Jin; Tian, Lixia

2018-06-20

A 25-days experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of dietary Haematococcus pluvialis on growth, survival, immune response and stress tolerance ability of post-larval Litopenaeus vannamei. Post-larval white shrimp (mean initial weight 2.1 mg) were fed five isoenergic and isonitrogenous diets containing grade levels of Haematococcus pluvialis (0, 1.7, 3.3, 6.7 and 13.3 g kg -1 diet, respectively). Results indicated that 3.3 g Haematococcus pluvialis kg -1 diet increased the survival rate of post-larval white shrimp. Specific growth rate (SGR) and weight gain (WG) showed no difference among each groups. After the acute salinity stress (salinity decreased rapidly from 28‰ to 5‰), survival of shrimp fed 6.7 g Haematococcus pluvialis kg -1 diet significant higher than the control (P < 0.05), and the total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) was increased with the increasing dietary Haematococcus pluvialis levels. The malonaldehyde (MDA) contents in whole body decreased with the increasing dietary Haematococcus pluvialis levels before and after the salinity stress. Before the salinity stress, relative mRNA levels of Caspase 3, Rho and Janus kinase (JAK) decreased in shrimp fed diets contain Haematococcus pluvialis. After the salinity stress, relative mRNA levels of anti-oxidative related genes and immune related genes decreased with the dietary Haematococcus pluvialis level increased to 3.3 g kg -1 . Based on the effect of Haematococcus pluvialis on survival, salinity stress tolerance ability and the immune response of post-larval L. vannamei, the optimal level of Haematococcus pluvialis was 3.3-6.7 g kg -1 diet (100-200 mg astaxanthin kg -1 diet). Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

2,3-Diphosphoglycerate Concentrations in Autologous Salvaged Versus Stored Red Blood Cells and in Surgical Patients After Transfusion.

PubMed

Scott, Andrew V; Nagababu, Enika; Johnson, Daniel J; Kebaish, Khaled M; Lipsitz, Joshua A; Dwyer, Ian M; Zuckerberg, Gabriel S; Barodka, Viachaslau M; Berkowitz, Dan E; Frank, Steven M

2016-03-01

Stored red blood cells (RBCs) are deficient in 2,3-diphosphoglycerate (2,3-DPG), but it is unclear how autologous salvaged blood (ASB) compares with stored blood and how rapidly 2,3-DPG levels return to normal after transfusion. Therefore, we compared levels of 2,3-DPG in stored versus ASB RBCs and in patients' blood after transfusion. Twenty-four patients undergoing multilevel spine fusion surgery were enrolled. We measured 2,3-DPG and the oxyhemoglobin dissociation curve (P50) in samples taken from the ASB and stored blood bags before transfusion and in blood samples drawn from patients before and after transfusion. The mean storage duration for stored RBCs was 24 ± 8 days. Compared with fresh RBCs, stored RBCs had decreased 2,3-DPG levels (by approximately 90%; P < 0.0001) and a decreased P50 (by approximately 30%; P < 0.0001). However, ASB RBCs did not exhibit these changes. The mean 2,3-DPG concentration decreased by approximately 20% (P < 0.05) in postoperative blood sampled from patients who received 1 to 3 stored RBC units and by approximately 30% (P < 0.01) in those who received ≥4 stored RBC units. 2,3-DPG was unchanged in patients who received no stored blood or ASB alone. After surgery, 2,3-DPG levels recovered gradually over 3 postoperative days in patients who received stored RBCs. Stored RBCs, but not ASB RBCs, have decreased levels of 2,3-DPG and a left-shift in the oxyhemoglobin dissociation curve. Postoperatively, 2,3-DPG levels remain below preoperative baseline levels for up to 3 postoperative days in patients who receive stored RBCs but are unchanged in those who receive only ASB RBCs.

2,3-Diphosphoglycerate Concentrations in Autologous Salvaged Versus Stored Red Blood Cells and in Surgical Patients After Transfusion

PubMed Central

Scott, Andrew V.; Nagababu, Enika; Johnson, Daniel J.; Kebaish, Khaled M.; Lipsitz, Joshua A.; Dwyer, Ian M.; Zuckerberg, Gabriel S.; Barodka, Viachaslau M.; Berkowitz, Dan E.; Frank, Steven M.

2016-01-01

Background Stored red blood cells (RBCs) are deficient in 2,3-diphosphoglycerate (2,3-DPG), but it is unclear how autologous salvaged blood (ASB) compares to stored blood, and how rapidly 2,3-DPG levels return to normal after transfusion. Therefore, we compared levels of 2,3-DPG in stored versus ASB RBCs, and in patients’ blood following transfusion. Methods Twenty-four patients undergoing multilevel spine fusion surgery were enrolled. We measured 2,3-DPG and the oxyhemoglobin dissociation curve (P50) in samples taken from the ASB and stored blood-bags before transfusion, and in blood samples drawn from patients before and after transfusion. Results The mean storage duration for stored RBCs was 24 ± 8 days. Compared with fresh RBCs, stored RBCs had decreased 2,3-DPG levels (by ≈ 90%; P<0.0001), and a decreased P50 (by ≈ 30%; P<0.0001). However, ASB RBCs did not exhibit these changes. The mean 2,3-DPG concentration decreased by ≈ 20% (P<0.05) in postoperative blood sampled from patients who received 1 – 3 stored RBC units, and by ≈ 30% (P<0.01) in those who received ≥4 stored RBC units. 2,3-DPG was unchanged in patients who received no stored blood or ASB alone. After surgery, 2,3-DPG levels recovered gradually over three postoperative days in patients who received stored RBCs. Conclusions Stored RBCs, but not ASB RBCs, have decreased levels of 2,3-DPG and a left shift in the oxyhemoglobin dissociation curve. Postoperatively, 2,3-DPG levels remain below preoperative baseline levels for up to three postoperative days in patients who receive stored RBCs, but are unchanged in those who receive only ASB RBCs. PMID:26891388

In vitro effects of sodium bicarbonate buffer on rumen fermentation, levels of lipopolysaccharide and biogenic amine, and composition of rumen microbiota.

PubMed

Mao, Shengyong; Huo, Wenjie; Liu, Junhua; Zhang, Ruiyang; Zhu, Weiyun

2017-03-01

Diets containing high levels of carbohydrates provoke a rapid decrease of rumen pH and high levels of biogenic amines and lipopolysaccharides (LPS), which severely impair the health and performance of ruminants. The goal of this study was to evaluate the effects of sodium bicarbonate (BC) buffer on rumen fermentation, levels of LPS and biogenic amine, and composition of rumen microbiota using in vitro rumen cultures. Sodium bicarbonate supplementation increased (P < 0.05) the final pH levels and concentrations of total volatile fatty acids and LPS, as well as the proportions of acetate, propionate, isobutyrate, isovalerate and valerate, and it decreased (P < 0.05) the proportion of butyrate and the levels of lactic acid, methylamine, tryptamine, tyramine, histamine and putrescine compared with the control. Pyrosequencing of the 16S rRNA gene showed that BC inclusion increased (P < 0.05) the bacterial diversity index compared with the control. Adding BC also decreased (P < 0.05) the relative abundance of Streptococcus and Butyrivibrio and increased (P < 0.05) the proportions of Ruminococcus, Succinivibrio and Prevotella. Sodium bicarbonate supplementation has beneficial effects in the reduction of bioamine levels and the increase in ruminal pH, and in modifying the microbial ecology of the rumen; however, it results in an accumulation of LPS under high-grain diet conditions. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry.

An appraisal of ground water for irrigation in the Wadena area, central Minnesota

USGS Publications Warehouse

Lindholm, F.G.

1970-01-01

Analyses were made to determine effects of development on ground-water levels under different development schemes both after a single irrigation season and after 5 and 20 successive years of irrigation. Where development is concentrated, some interference between wells can be expected. Although water levels recover rapidly when pumps are shut off, recovery will not be complete prior to the next irrigation season in heavily developed areas. After several years of watertable lowering, yields from wells will decrease because of deceased saturated thickness, unless climatic changes result in abnormally high amounts of recharge.

Propulsion and Power Rapid Response Research and Development Support: Delivery Order: Fundamental Science Investigations for Propulsion and Power Systems

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-01-01

propane/air flame (φ = 1.1, flow speed = 1.3 m/s). A small DC current causes a laminar flame to go unsteady and decrease somewhat in height due to...three-level model which is used for inert gases. The three-level model describes the build-up of electrons in the system as they go through the...Produced MWCNT 94 96 98 100 102 W ei gh t ( % ) 0 200 400 600 800 1000 Temperature (°C) Universal V4.2E TA Instruments Figure 7. TGA Analysis of

Nmdmc overexpression extends Drosophila lifespan and reduces levels of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species

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

Yu, Suyeun; Jang, Yeogil; Paik, Donggi

NAD-dependent methylenetetrahydrofolate dehydrogenase-methenyltetrahydrofolate cyclohydrolase (NMDMC) is a bifunctional enzyme involved in folate-dependent metabolism and highly expressed in rapidly proliferating cells. However, Nmdmc physiological roles remain unveiled. We found that ubiquitous Nmdmc overexpression enhanced Drosophila lifespan and stress resistance. Interestingly, Nmdmc overexpression in the fat body was sufficient to increase lifespan and tolerance against oxidative stress. In addition, these conditions coincided with significant decreases in the levels of mitochondrial ROS and Hsp22 as well as with a significant increase in the copy number of mitochondrial DNA. These results suggest that Nmdmc overexpression should be beneficial for mitochondrial homeostasis and increasing lifespan.more » - Highlights: • Ubiquitous Nmdmc overexpression enhanced lifespan and stress tolerance. • Nmdmc overexpression in the fat body extended longevity. • Fat body-specific Nmdmc overexpression increased oxidative stress resistance. • Nmdmc overexpression decreased Hsp22 transcript levels and ROS. • Nmdmc overexpression increased mitochondrial DNA copy number.« less

Modulation of GDP-fucose level for generating proteins with reduced rate of fucosylation (WO2010141855).

PubMed

Taupin, Philippe

2011-09-01

The application (WO2010141855) is in the field of glycobiology, and involves the control of the rate of fucosylation of proteins by exogenous factors. It aims at controlling the rate of protein fucosylation with inhibitors (drugs or nucleic acid antagonists) of enzymes involved in the synthesis of GDP-fucose. Mammalian cell lines were cultured in the presence of inhibitors, for example, siRNA. The rates of GDP-fucose in cells and during protein fucosylation were characterized. The level of protein fucosylation decreases rapidly in response to a decrease in GDP-fucose level. The relationship between the rate of fucosylation of proteins and the level of GDP-fucose in a cell is non-linear. Reduction in the rate of protein fucosylation can be achieved with a minimal reduction of the level of GDP-fucose in cells. The paradigm may be used to synthesize proteins and antibodies, with a reduced rate of fucosylation. The application claims that the use of drugs or nucleic acid antagonists that inhibit the enzymes involved in GDP-fucose biosynthesis optimizes the level of GDP-fucose present in cells, and reduces the rate of fucosylation of glycoproteins.

Laying-sequence-specific variation in yolk oestrogen levels, and relationship to plasma oestrogen in female zebra finches (Taeniopygia guttata)

PubMed Central

Williams, Tony D.; Ames, Caroline E.; Kiparissis, Yiannis; Wynne-Edwards, Katherine E.

2005-01-01

We investigated the relationship between plasma and yolk oestrogens in laying female zebra finches (Taeniopygia guttata) by manipulating plasma oestradiol (E2) levels, via injection of oestradiol-17β, in a sequence-specific manner to maintain chronically high plasma levels for later-developing eggs (contrasting with the endogenous pattern of decreasing plasma E2 concentrations during laying). We report systematic variation in yolk oestrogen concentrations, in relation to laying sequence, similar to that widely reported for androgenic steroids. In sham-manipulated females, yolk E2 concentrations decreased with laying sequence. However, in E2-treated females plasma E2 levels were higher during the period of rapid yolk development of later-laid eggs, compared with control females. As a consequence, we reversed the laying-sequence-specific pattern of yolk E2: in E2-treated females, yolk E2 concentrations increased with laying-sequence. In general therefore, yolk E2 levels were a direct reflection of plasma E2 levels. However, in control females there was some inter-individual variability in the endogenous pattern of plasma E2 levels through the laying cycle which could generate variation in sequence-specific patterns of yolk hormone levels even if these primarily reflect circulating steroid levels. PMID:15695208

Partial Resuscitative Endovascular Balloon Occlusion of the Aorta (P-REBOA) in a Pig Model (Sus scrofa) with ongoing Resuscitation

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-01-08

occlusion, regulated flow provided perfusion to capillary beds. Following 70 minutes of partial aortic occlusion, damage control surgery and whole blood ... renal function, and were weaned from aortic occlusion more rapidly. CONCLUSIONS: P-REBOA is capable of limiting exsanguination while providing blood ...resuscitation was performed and all animals were survived to 360 minutes. Animals that tolerated distal flow had decreased levels of lactate, preserved

The vertical profile of radar reflectivity of convective cells: A strong indicator of storm intensity and lightning probability?

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Zipser, Edward J.; Lutz, Kurt R.

1994-01-01

Reflectivity data from Doppler radars are used to construct vertical profiles of radar reflectivity (VPRR) of convective cells in mesoscale convective systems (MCSs) in three different environmental regimes. The National Center for Atmospheric Research CP-3 and CP-4 radars are used to calculate median VPRR for MCSs in the Oklahoma-Kansas Preliminary Regional Experiment for STORM-Central in 1985. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration-Tropical Ocean Global Atmosphere radar in Darwin, Australia, is used to calculate VPRR for MCSs observed both in oceanic, monsoon regimes and in continental, break period regimes during the wet seasons of 1987/88 and 1988/89. The midlatitude and tropical continental VPRRs both exhibit maximum reflectivity somewhat above the surface and have a gradual decrease in reflectivity with height above the freezing level. In sharp contrast, the tropical oceanic profile has a maximum reflectivity at the lowest level and a very rapid decrease in reflectivity with height beginning just above the freezing level. The tropical oceanic profile in the Darwin area is almost the same shape as that for two other tropical oceanic regimes, leading to the conclustion that it is characteristic. The absolute values of reflectivity in the 0 to 20 C range are compared with values in the literature thought to represent a threshold for rapid storm electrification leading to lightning, about 40 dBZ at -10 C. The large negative vertical gradient of reflectivity in this temperature range for oceanic storms is hypothesized to be a direct result of the characteristically weaker vertical velocities observed in MCSs over tropical oceans. It is proposed, as a necessary condition for rapid electrification, that a convective cell must have its updraft speed exceed some threshold value. Based upon field program data, a tentative estimate for the magnitude of this threshold is 6-7 m/s for mean speed and 10-12 m/s for peak speed.

Rapid Recovery of a Gully Thermokarst: 10 Years of Observation of the Toolik River Thermokarst, North Slope, Alaska

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bowden, W. B.; Gooseff, M. N.; Stuckey, J. J.; Fulweber, R. A.; Larouche, J. R.

2014-12-01

As permafrost thaws, previously frozen soils may become unstable and subside, in some cases forming thermo-erosional features such as gully thermokarst (GTKs). The formation of these features can result in sediment and nutrient inputs to local streams and lakes. The initial evolution of GTKs is rapid (months to several years) and appears to follow a progression in which the loss of ground ice in the soil creates a subsurface cavity that allows for the transport of water downslope, followed by the collapse of the overlying soil into the cavity, with a subsequent period of sediment and nutrient export. However, there is considerable uncertainty about the length of time these features remain unstable and actively transport sediments and nutrients. We followed the evolution of one moderately-sized (~5,000 m2) GTK located in the headwaters of the Toolik River (N68.692733° W149.205433°) on the North Slope of Alaska (USA). This feature formed in July 2003 and we monitored it for several years thereafter. In 2007 we began to monitor the shape and contours of this feature and quantified the level of ecologically important solutes it exports to the local stream. As expected, large quantities of sediment and nutrients were exported from this feature when it first formed. However, within a year or two the sediment export decreased to episodic events and the nutrient export, while elevated above reference levels, was not remarkably high. Between 2007 and the present (2014), the shape and topography of the feature have changed very little (Figure) except for some headwall retrogression, suggesting that long-term sediment transport has decreased dramatically. Thus, the overall sediment loading to the river was smaller and has decreased more rapidly than we expected. The rapid reduction in sediment and nutrient delivery is consistent with the more recent geomorphic evolution and stabilization of this feature. We conclude - contrary to our initial hypotheses - that these features form and stabilize rather quickly (~10 years) and that their influences on local streams and lakes might be ephemeral. Thus, the greater importance of these features may be as indicators of general permafrost degradation in the area and the attendant losses of carbon and other nutrients that this degradation implies.

Rapid detection of bacteria with miniaturized pyrolysis-gas chromatographic analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mowry, Curtis; Morgan, Catherine H.; Baca, Quentin; Manginell, Ronald P.; Kottenstette, Richard J.; Lewis, Patrick; Frye-Mason, Gregory C.

2002-02-01

Rapid detection and identification of bacteria and other pathogens is important for many civilian and military applications. The profiles of biological markers such as fatty acids can be used to characterize biological samples or to distinguish bacteria at the gram-type, genera, and even species level. Common methods for whole cell bacterial analysis are neither portable nor rapid, requiring lengthy, labor intensive sample preparation and bench-scale instrumentation. These methods chemically derivatize fatty acids to produce more volatile fatty acid methyl esters (FAMEs) that can be separated and analyzed by a gas chromatograph (GC)/mass spectrometer. More recent publications demonstrate decreased sample preparation time with in situ derivatization of whole bacterial samples using pyrolysis/derivatization. Ongoing development of miniaturized pyrolysis/GC instrumentation by this department capitalizes on Sandia advances in the field of microfabricated chemical analysis systems ((mu) ChemLab). Microdevices include rapidly heated stages capable of pyrolysis or sample concentration, gas chromatography columns, and surface acoustic wave (SAW) sensor arrays. We will present results demonstrating the capabilities of these devices toward fulfilling the goal of portable, rapid detection and early warning of the presence of pathogens in air or water.

Collisions with ice-volatile objects: Geological implications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wilde, P.; Quinby-Hunt, M. S.; Berry, W. B. N.

1988-01-01

The collision of the Earth with extra-terrestrial ice-volatile bodies is proposed as a mechanism to produce rapid changes in the geologic record. These bodies would be analogs of the ice satellites found for the Jovian planets and suspected for comets and certain low density bodies in the Asteroid belt. Five generic end-members are postulated: (1) water ice; (2) dry ice: carbon-carbon dioxide rich, (3) oceanic (chloride) ice; (4) sulfur-rich ice; (5) ammonia hydrate-rich ice; and (6) clathrate: methane-rich ice. Due to the volatile nature of these bodies, evidence for their impact with the Earth would be subtle and probably best reflected geochemically or in the fossil record. Actual boloids impacting the Earth may have a variable composition, generally some admixture with water ice. However for discussion purposes, only the effects of a dominant component will be treated. The general geological effects of such collisions, as a function of the dominant component would be: (1) rapid sea level rise unrelated to deglaciation, (2) decreased oceanic pH and rapid climatic warming or deglaciation; (3) increased paleosalinities; (4) increased acid rain; (5) increased oceanic pH and rapid carbonate deposition; and (6) rapid climatic warming or deglaciation.

Numerical model-based diagnostic study of the rapid development phase of the Presidents' Day cyclone

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Whitaker, Jeffrey S.; Uccellini, Louis W.; Brill, Keith F.

1988-01-01

A mesoscale model simulation of the Presidents' Day cyclone at 1200 GMT 18 February 1979 is presented which captures the upper-tropospheric intrusion of stratospheric air upstream of the East Coast and subsequent development of the surface cyclone. The model simulation is then used to examine the descent of the stratospheric air mass and the interaction of this air mass with a lower-tropospheric potential vorticity maximum associated with an inverted trough and coastal front along the East Coast. The model is also used to examine the processes that contribute to the rapid decrease of sea-level pressure and increase in lower-tropospheric cyclonic vorticity during the explosive development phase of the cyclone.

Sleep and the epidemic of obesity in children and adults

PubMed Central

Van Cauter, Eve; Knutson, Kristen L

2008-01-01

Sleep is an important modulator of neuroendocrine function and glucose metabolism in children as well as in adults. In recent years, sleep curtailment has become a hallmark of modern society with both children and adults having shorter bedtimes than a few decades ago. This trend for shorter sleep duration has developed over the same time period as the dramatic increase in the prevalence of obesity. There is rapidly accumulating evidence from both laboratory and epidemiological studies to indicate that chronic partial sleep loss may increase the risk of obesity and weight gain. The present article reviews laboratory evidence indicating that sleep curtailment in young adults results in a constellation of metabolic and endocrine alterations, including decreased glucose tolerance, decreased insulin sensitivity, elevated sympathovagal balance, increased evening concentrations of cortisol, increased levels of ghrelin, decreased levels of leptin, and increased hunger and appetite. We also review cross-sectional epidemiological studies associating short sleep with increased body mass index and prospective epidemiological studies that have shown an increased risk of weight gain and obesity in children and young adults who are short sleepers. Altogether, the evidence points to a possible role of decreased sleep duration in the current epidemic of obesity. PMID:18719052

Accelerated autoantibody clearance by intravenous immunoglobulin therapy: studies in experimental models to determine the magnitude and time course of the effect.

PubMed

Bleeker, W K; Teeling, J L; Hack, C E

2001-11-15

Recently, it has been postulated that the beneficial effect of intravenous immunoglobulins (IVIGs) in antibody-mediated autoimmune disorders is based on accelerated catabolism of autoantibodies. In the current study, in vivo experiments were performed with mice in which autoantibody production was mimicked by continuous infusion of monoclonal antibodies. In this model, a single dose of IVIG reduced the plasma concentrations of the infused immunoglobulin (Ig)G1 monoclonal antibody (mAb) by approximately 40% after 3 days, whereas the concentration of an IgA mAb was not affected. To extrapolate these findings to humans, a computational model for IgG clearance was established that accurately predicted the time course and magnitude of the decrease in IgG plasma levels observed in mice. Adapted for humans, this model predicted a gradually occurring decrease in autoantibody levels after IVIG administration (2 g/kg), with a maximum reduction of approximately 25% after 3 to 4 weeks and a continued decrease of several months. In conclusion, a single high dose of IVIG induces a relatively small but long-lasting reduction of autoantibody levels by accelerated IgG clearance. This mechanism has clinical relevance in the sense that it can fully explain, as the sole mechanism, the gradual decrease in autoantibody levels observed in several patient studies. However, in some clinical studies, larger or more rapid effects have been observed that cannot be explained by accelerated clearance. Hence, IVIG can also reduce autoantibody levels through mechanisms such as down-regulation of antibody production or neutralization by anti-idiotypic antibodies.

Microvariability of the blazar OJ 287

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jia, G. B.; Cen, X. F.; Ma, H. Y.; Wang, J. C.

1998-05-01

Results of BVRI CCD photometric monitoring and fast photometry in the I band for the blazar OJ 287 in 1994-1995 are presented. The predicted outburst of the blazar had been observed, the maximum appeared in 1994 November, after that, the luminosity decreased by 1.6 mag for about three months and dropped to near the level in 1994 April. Rapid variations with timescales of minutes, hours and one day were observed in our observations, with small amplitude. The amplitude of the most rapid variations (minutes) is in the range of 0fm043 -0fm12 . The results of the statistical analysis of the fast photometry data are as follows. In five nights out of six rapid variability appeared in the sampling interval, which ranged from 3.4 minutes to 6.5 minutes, with a rms amplitude of flux variations of 1.70%-2.3%. The rapid variability can be explained by the model of shocks within turbulent jet or of vortices and magnetic flux tubes on accretion disk. Table 5 is only available at the CDS via anonymous ftp 130.79.128.5 or http://cdsweb.u-strasbg.fr/Abstract.html

Effect of cooking methods on selected physicochemical and nutritional properties of barlotto bean, chickpea, faba bean, and white kidney bean.

PubMed

Güzel, Demet; Sayar, Sedat

2012-02-01

The effects of atmospheric pressure cooking (APC) and high-pressure cooking (HPC) on the physicochemical and nutritional properties of barlotto bean, chickpea, faba bean, and white kidney bean were investigated. The hardness of the legumes cooked by APC or HPC were not statistically different (P > 0.05). APC resulted in higher percentage of seed coat splits than HPC. Both cooking methods decreased Hunter "L" value significantly (P < 0.05). The "a" and "b" values of dark-colored seeds decreased after cooking, while these values tended to increase for the light-colored seeds. The total amounts of solid lost from legume seeds were higher after HPC compared with APC. Rapidly digestible starch (RDS) percentages increased considerably after both cooking methods. High pressure cooked legumes resulted in higher levels of resistant starch (RS) but lower levels of slowly digestible starch (SDS) than the atmospheric pressure cooked legumes.

Elevated fibroblast growth factor 23 levels as a cause of early post-renal transplantation hypophosphatemia.

PubMed

Han, S Y; Hwang, E A; Park, S B; Kim, H C; Kim, H T

2012-04-01

Hypophosphatemia is a common complication after renal transplantation. Hyperparathyroidism has long been thought to be the cause, but hypophosphatemia can persist after high parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels normalize. Furthermore, calcitriol levels remain inappropriately low after transplantation, suggesting that mechanisms other than PTH contribute. Fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF-23) induces phosphaturia, inhibits calcitriol synthesis, and accumulates in chronic kidney disease. We performed prospective study to investigate if FGF-23 early after renal transplantation contributes to hypophosphatemia. We measured FGF-23 levels before and at 1, 2, 4, and 12 weeks after transplantation in 20 renal transplant recipients. Serum creatinine, calcium (Ca), phosphate (Pi), intact PTH (PTH), and 1,25-dihydroxy vitamin D (1,25(OH)(2)VitD) were measured at the same time. FGF-23 levels decreased by 97% at 4 weeks after renal transplantation (PRT) (7,471 ± 11,746 vs 225 ± 295 pg/mL; P < .05) but were still above normal. PTH and Pi levels also decreased significantly after renal transplantation, and Ca and 1,25(OH)(2)VitD slightly increased. PRT hypophosphatemia of <2.5 mg/dL developed in 15 (75%) and 12 (60%) patients at 4 weeks and 12 weeks respectively. Compared with nonhypophosphatemic patients, the levels of FGF-23 of hypophosphatemic patients were higher (303 ± 311 vs 10 ± 6.9 pg/mL; P = .02) at 4 weeks PRT. FGF-23 levels were inversely correlated with Pi (r(2) = 0.406; P = .011); PTH was not independently associated with Pi (r(2) = 0.132; P = .151). FGF-23 levels decrease dramatically after renal transplantation. During the early PRT period, Pi rapidly decreased, suggesting that FGF-23 is cleared by the kidney, but residual FGF-23 may contribute to the PRT hypophosphatemia. FGF-23, but not PTH levels, was independently associated with PRT hypophosphatemia. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Altered Oligodendrocyte Maturation and Myelin Maintenance: The Role of Antiretrovirals in HIV-Associated Neurocognitive Disorders.

PubMed

Jensen, Brigid K; Monnerie, Hubert; Mannell, Maggie V; Gannon, Patrick J; Espinoza, Cagla Akay; Erickson, Michelle A; Bruce-Keller, Annadora J; Gelman, Benjamin B; Briand, Lisa A; Pierce, R Christopher; Jordan-Sciutto, Kelly L; Grinspan, Judith B

2015-11-01

Despite effective viral suppression through combined antiretroviral therapy (cART), approximately half of HIV-positive individuals have HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND). Studies of antiretroviral-treated patients have revealed persistent white matter abnormalities including diffuse myelin pallor, diminished white matter tracts, and decreased myelin protein mRNAs. Loss of myelin can contribute to neurocognitive dysfunction because the myelin membrane generated by oligodendrocytes is essential for rapid signal transduction and axonal maintenance. We hypothesized that myelin changes in HAND are partly due to effects of antiretroviral drugs on oligodendrocyte survival and/or maturation. We showed that primary mouse oligodendrocyte precursor cell cultures treated with therapeutic concentrations of HIV protease inhibitors ritonavir or lopinavir displayed dose-dependent decreases in oligodendrocyte maturation; however, this effect was rapidly reversed after drug removal. Conversely, nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor zidovudine had no effect. Furthermore, in vivo ritonavir administration to adult mice reduced frontal cortex myelin protein levels. Finally, prefrontal cortex tissue from HIV-positive individuals with HAND on cART showed a significant decrease in myelin basic protein compared with untreated HIV-positive individuals with HAND or HIV-negative controls. These findings demonstrate that antiretrovirals can impact myelin integrity and have implications for myelination in juvenile HIV patients and myelin maintenance in adults on lifelong therapy.

Quasi-static and ratcheting properties of trabecular bone under uniaxial and cyclic compression.

PubMed

Gao, Li-Lan; Wei, Chao-Lei; Zhang, Chun-Qiu; Gao, Hong; Yang, Nan; Dong, Li-Min

2017-08-01

The quasi-static and ratcheting properties of trabecular bone were investigated by experiments and theoretical predictions. The creep tests with different stress levels were completed and it is found that both the creep strain and creep compliance increase rapidly at first and then increase slowly as the creep time goes by. With increase of compressive stress the creep strain increases and the creep compliance decreases. The uniaxial compressive tests show that the applied stress rate makes remarkable influence on the compressive behaviors of trabecular bone. The Young's modulus of trabecular bone increases with increase of stress rate. The stress-strain hysteresis loops of trabecular bone under cyclic load change from sparse to dense with increase of number of cycles, which agrees with the change trend of ratcheting strain. The ratcheting strain rate rapidly decreases at first, and then exhibits a relatively stable and small value after 50cycles. Both the ratcheting strain and ratcheting strain rate increase with increase of stress amplitude or with decrease of stress rate. The creep model and the nonlinear viscoelastic constitutive model of trabecular bone were proposed and used to predict its creep property and rate-dependent compressive property. The results show that there are good agreements between the experimental data and predictions. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Phellinus linteus Mycelium Alleviates Myocardial Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury through Autophagic Regulation.

PubMed

Su, Hsing-Hui; Chu, Ya-Chun; Liao, Jiuan-Miaw; Wang, Yi-Hsin; Jan, Ming-Shiou; Lin, Chia-Wei; Wu, Chiu-Yeh; Tseng, Chin-Yin; Yen, Jiin-Cherng; Huang, Shiang-Suo

2017-01-01

The incidence of myocardial ischemia-reperfusion (IR) injury is rapidly increasing around the world and this disease is a major contributor to global morbidity and mortality. It is known that regulation of programmed cell death including apoptosis and autophagy reduces the impact of myocardial IR injury. In this study, the cardioprotective effects and underlying mechanisms of Phellinus linteus (Berk. and Curt.) Teng, Hymenochaetaceae (PL), a type of medicinal mushroom, were examined in rats subjected to myocardial IR injury. The left main coronary artery of rats was ligated for 1 h and reperfused for 3 h. The arrhythmia levels were monitored during the entire process and the infarct size was evaluated after myocardial IR injury. Furthermore, the expression levels of proteins in apoptotic and autophagic pathways were observed. Pretreatment with PL mycelium (PLM) significantly reduced ventricular arrhythmia and mortality due to myocardial IR injury. PLM also significantly decreased myocardial infarct size and plasma lactate dehydrogenase level after myocardial IR injury. Moreover, PLM administration resulted in decreased caspase 3 and caspase 9 activation and increased Bcl-2/Bax ratio. Phosphorylation level of AMPK was elevated while mTOR level was reduced. Becline-1 and p62 levels decreased. These findings suggest that PLM is effective in protecting the myocardium against IR injury. The mechanism involves mediation through suppressed pro-apoptotic signaling and regulation of autophagic signaling, including stimulation of AMPK-dependent pathway and inhibition of beclin-1-dependent pathway, resulting in enhancement of protective autophagy and inhibition of excessive autophagy.

Decreasing Free Radicals Level on High Risk Person After Vitamin C and E Supplement Treatment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sitorus, M. S.; Anggraini, D. R.; Hidayat

2017-03-01

Has become a global issue that the increase in global warming mainly caused by high air pollution levels which are donated by motor vehicle emissions. As a rapidly developing country, Indonesia becomes vulnerable to health problems related to air pollution. Excessive free radicals that is produced by air pollution can initiate stress oxidative. Already known that, stress oxidative trigger many health problems. Vitamin C and E is a non enzymatic antioxidant that can neutralize free radicals. This study aims to investigate the decreasing free radicals level by administering vitamin C and E. This research using pre and post experimental design study. There are 24 operators gasoline station Pertamina as samples, with an average age of 26 years. The samples were divided into 4 groups. Group 1 (control), group 2, were given vitamin C doses of 500mg / day, group 3 was given vitamin E doses of 250 IU / day and the group 4 was given a combination of vitamins C and E. The treatment was given for 30 days. Free radicals level is obtained from malonaldehyde (MDA) level by spectrophotometer. Before treatment the average of MDA level is 5.540 µm. After the treatment, MDA is significantly decreased become 3.992 µm (T-test, sig<0.05). This result can be used as a sign of side affect of air pollutant in the operator SPBU. As reminding to protect the employee with safety aid and supplement.

Age and exposure to arsenic alter base excision repair transcript levels in mice.

PubMed

Osmond, Megan J; Kunz, Bernard A; Snow, Elizabeth T

2010-09-01

Arsenic (As) induces DNA-damaging reactive oxygen species. Most oxidative DNA damage is countered by base excision repair (BER), the capacity for which may be reduced in older animals. We examined whether age and consumption of As in lactational milk or drinking water influences BER gene transcript levels in mice. Lactating mothers and 24-week-old mice were exposed (24 h or 2 weeks) to As (2 or 50 p.p.m.) in drinking water. Lung tissue was harvested from adults, neonates (initially 1 week old) feeding from lactating mothers and untreated animals 1-26 weeks old. Transcripts encoding BER proteins were quantified. BER transcript levels decreased precipitously with age in untreated mice but increased in neonates whose mothers were exposed to 50 p.p.m. As for 24 h or 2 weeks. Treatment of 24-week-old mice with 2 or 50 p.p.m. As for 2 weeks decreased all transcript levels measured. Exposure to As attenuated the age-related transcript level decline for only one BER gene. We conclude that aging is associated with a rapid reduction of BER transcript levels in mice, which may contribute to decreased BER activity in older animals. Levels of As that can alter gene expression are transmitted to neonatal mice in lactational milk produced by mothers drinking water containing As, raising concerns about breastfeeding in countries having As-contaminated groundwater. Reduction of BER transcript levels in 24-week-old mice exposed to As for 2 weeks suggests As may potentiate sensitivity to itself in older animals.

Apheresis in food allergies.

PubMed

Dahdah, Lamia; Leone, Giovanna; Artesani, Mariacristina; Riccardi, Carla; Mazzina, Oscar

2017-06-01

The prevalence of IgE-mediated food allergy and anaphylaxis has risen rapidly in developed countries, and countries with rapid industrialization may follow. Therapies include elimination diets, Oral ImmunoTherapy, and the administration of biologics, but high serum IgE levels may preclude their use. Consequently, decreasing IgE becomes a rational approach and could be obtained by immunoapheresis. The aim of this review is to evaluate the rationale and advantages of immunoapheresis. The majority of the available adsorbers remove aspecifically all classes of immunoglobulins. Recently, IgE-specific adsorbers have been approved. Data on immunoapheresis for the treatment of allergic diseases with pathologically elevated IgE levels are emerging. In atopic dermatitis, this therapy alone seems to be beneficial. IgE-selective apheresis appears to be sufficient to reduce the risk of anaphylaxis in multiple food allergy (MFA) and, when IgE titers are high, to open the way to treatment with Omalizumab. Prospective studies, with well designed protocols, are needed to assess the efficacy, tolerability, and cost-effectiveness of immunoapheresis in the field of food allergy.

Tripeptidyl Peptidase II Mediates Levels of Nuclear Phosphorylated ERK1 and ERK2*

PubMed Central

Wiemhoefer, Anne; Stargardt, Anita; van der Linden, Wouter A.; Renner, Maria C.; van Kesteren, Ronald E.; Stap, Jan; Raspe, Marcel A.; Tomkinson, Birgitta; Kessels, Helmut W.; Ovaa, Huib; Overkleeft, Herman S.; Florea, Bogdan; Reits, Eric A.

2015-01-01

Tripeptidyl peptidase II (TPP2) is a serine peptidase involved in various biological processes, including antigen processing, cell growth, DNA repair, and neuropeptide mediated signaling. The underlying mechanisms of how a peptidase can influence this multitude of processes still remain unknown. We identified rapid proteomic changes in neuroblastoma cells following selective TPP2 inhibition using the known reversible inhibitor butabindide, as well as a new, more potent, and irreversible peptide phosphonate inhibitor. Our data show that TPP2 inhibition indirectly but rapidly decreases the levels of active, di-phosphorylated extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1 (ERK1) and ERK2 in the nucleus, thereby down-regulating signal transduction downstream of growth factors and mitogenic stimuli. We conclude that TPP2 mediates many important cellular functions by controlling ERK1 and ERK2 phosphorylation. For instance, we show that TPP2 inhibition of neurons in the hippocampus leads to an excessive strengthening of synapses, indicating that TPP2 activity is crucial for normal brain function. PMID:26041847

Effect of Cultivar, Temperature, and Environmental Conditions on the Dynamic Change of Melatonin in Mulberry Fruit Development and Wine Fermentation.

PubMed

Wang, Cheng; Yin, Li-Yuan; Shi, Xue-Ying; Xiao, Hua; Kang, Kun; Liu, Xing-Yan; Zhan, Ji-Cheng; Huang, Wei-Dong

2016-04-01

High levels of melatonin have been reported in various foods but not in mulberry or its wine. This study investigated the dynamic changes of melatonin levels during mulberry fruit development and ethanol fermentation of 2 different colored mulberry cultivars ("Hongguo2ˮ Morus nigra, black and "Baiyuwangˮ Morus alba, white) at 2 fermentation temperatures (16 and 25 °C). Our results showed that the melatonin level increased in the beginning of mulberry development but decreased in the end. The MnTDC gene expression level correlated with melatonin production, which implied that TDC may be the rate-limiting enzyme of the melatonin biosynthetic process in mulberries. During mulberry fermentation, the melatonin concentration increased rapidly in the beginning and then decreased gradually. Low temperature delayed the melatonin production during fermentation. A relatively high level of melatonin was found in "Hongguo2ˮ compared with "Baiyuwangˮ during fruit development and fermentation. The variation of melatonin correlated with the ethanol production rate, suggesting that melatonin may participate in physiological regulation of Saccharomyces cerevisiae during the fermentation stage. © 2016 Institute of Food Technologists®

Neuroendocrine disruption in the shore crab Carcinus maenas: Effects of serotonin and fluoxetine on chh- and mih-gene expression, glycaemia and ecdysteroid levels.

PubMed

Robert, Alexandrine; Monsinjon, Tiphaine; Delbecque, Jean-Paul; Olivier, Stéphanie; Poret, Agnès; Foll, Frank Le; Durand, Fabrice; Knigge, Thomas

2016-06-01

Serotonin, a highly conserved neurotransmitter, controls many biological functions in vertebrates, but also in invertebrates. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as fluoxetine, are commonly used in human medication to ease depression by affecting serotonin levels. Their residues and metabolites can be detected in the aquatic environment and its biota. They may also alter serotonin levels in aquatic invertebrates, thereby perturbing physiological functions. To investigate whether such perturbations can indeed be expected, shore crabs (Carcinus maenas) were injected either with serotonin, fluoxetine or a combination of both. Dose-dependent effects of fluoxetine ranging from 250 to 750nM were investigated. Gene expression of crustacean hyperglycemic hormone (chh) as well as moult inhibiting hormone (mih) was assessed by RT-qPCR at 2h and 12h after injection. Glucose and ecdysteroid levels in the haemolymph were monitored in regular intervals until 12h. Serotonin led to a rapid increase of chh and mih expression. On the contrary, fluoxetine only affected chh and mih expression after several hours, but kept expression levels significantly elevated. Correspondingly, serotonin rapidly increased glycaemia, which returned to normal or below normal levels after 12h. Fluoxetine, however, resulted in a persistent low-level increase of glycaemia, notably during the period when negative feedback regulation reduced glycaemia in the serotonin treated animals. Ecdysteroid levels were significantly decreased by serotonin and fluoxetine, with the latter showing less pronounced and less rapid, but longer lasting effects. Impacts of fluoxetine on glycaemia and ecdysteroids were mostly observed at higher doses (500 and 750nM) and affected principally the response dynamics, but not the amplitude of glycaemia and ecdysteroid-levels. These results suggest that psychoactive drugs are able to disrupt neuroendocrine control in decapod crustaceans, as they interfere with the normal regulation of the serotonergic system. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

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

Canavan, G.H.

At low force levels stability indices depend primarily on the number of vulnerable missiles and the number of weapons on them. The index reduces to a product of the number of vulnerable missiles and the differences between normalized second and first strikes by vulnerable weapons. As the number of weapons per vulnerable missile decreases, the index rapidly approaches stability. Further reductions in vulnerable and survivable missiles and weapons do not affect stability, although they do reduce first and second strikes. Modest weapon reconstitution degrades stability significantly.

Effect of standing on neurohumoral responses and plasma volume in healthy subjects

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jacob, G.; Ertl, A. C.; Shannon, J. R.; Furlan, R.; Robertson, R. M.; Robertson, D.

1998-01-01

Upright posture leads to rapid pooling of blood in the lower extremities and shifts plasma fluid into surrounding tissues. This results in a decrease in plasma volume (PV) and in hemoconcentration. There has been no integrative evaluation of concomitant neurohumoral and PV shifts with upright posture in normal subjects. We studied 10 healthy subjects after 3 days of stable Na+ and K+ intake. PV was assessed by the Evans blue dye method and by changes in hematocrit. Norepinephrine (NE), NE spillover, epinephrine (Epi), vasopressin, plasma renin activity, aldosterone, osmolarity, and kidney response expressed by urine osmolality and by Na+ and K+ excretion of the subjects in the supine and standing postures were all measured. We found that PV fell by 13% (375 +/- 35 ml plasma) over approximately 14 min, after which time it remained relatively stable. There was a concomitant decrease in systolic blood pressure and an increase in heart rate that peaked at the time of maximal decrease in PV. Plasma Epi and NE increased rapidly to this point. Epi approached baseline by 20 min of standing. NE spillover increased 80% and clearance decreased 30% with 30 min of standing. The increase in plasma renin activity correlated with an increase in aldosterone. Vasopressin increased progressively, but there was no change in plasma osmolarity. The kidney response showed a significant decrease in Na+ and an increase in K+ excretion with upright posture. We conclude that a cascade of neurohumoral events occurs with upright posture, some of which particularly coincide with the decrease in PV. Plasma Epi levels may contribute to the increment in heart rate with maintained upright posture.

The rostromedial tegmental nucleus is essential for non-rapid eye movement sleep.

PubMed

Yang, Su-Rong; Hu, Zhen-Zhen; Luo, Yan-Jia; Zhao, Ya-Nan; Sun, Huan-Xin; Yin, Dou; Wang, Chen-Yao; Yan, Yu-Dong; Wang, Dian-Ru; Yuan, Xiang-Shan; Ye, Chen-Bo; Guo, Wei; Qu, Wei-Min; Cherasse, Yoan; Lazarus, Michael; Ding, Yu-Qiang; Huang, Zhi-Li

2018-04-01

The rostromedial tegmental nucleus (RMTg), also called the GABAergic tail of the ventral tegmental area, projects to the midbrain dopaminergic system, dorsal raphe nucleus, locus coeruleus, and other regions. Whether the RMTg is involved in sleep-wake regulation is unknown. In the present study, pharmacogenetic activation of rat RMTg neurons promoted non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep with increased slow-wave activity (SWA). Conversely, rats after neurotoxic lesions of 8 or 16 days showed decreased NREM sleep with reduced SWA at lights on. The reduced SWA persisted at least 25 days after lesions. Similarly, pharmacological and pharmacogenetic inactivation of rat RMTg neurons decreased NREM sleep. Electrophysiological experiments combined with optogenetics showed a direct inhibitory connection between the terminals of RMTg neurons and midbrain dopaminergic neurons. The bidirectional effects of the RMTg on the sleep-wake cycle were mimicked by the modulation of ventral tegmental area (VTA)/substantia nigra compacta (SNc) dopaminergic neuronal activity using a pharmacogenetic approach. Furthermore, during the 2-hour recovery period following 6-hour sleep deprivation, the amount of NREM sleep in both the lesion and control rats was significantly increased compared with baseline levels; however, only the control rats showed a significant increase in SWA compared with baseline levels. Collectively, our findings reveal an essential role of the RMTg in the promotion of NREM sleep and homeostatic regulation.

The rostromedial tegmental nucleus is essential for non-rapid eye movement sleep

PubMed Central

Hu, Zhen-Zhen; Luo, Yan-Jia; Zhao, Ya-Nan; Sun, Huan-Xin; Yin, Dou; Wang, Chen-Yao; Yan, Yu-Dong; Wang, Dian-Ru; Yuan, Xiang-Shan; Ye, Chen-Bo; Guo, Wei; Qu, Wei-Min; Cherasse, Yoan; Lazarus, Michael; Ding, Yu-Qiang; Huang, Zhi-Li

2018-01-01

The rostromedial tegmental nucleus (RMTg), also called the GABAergic tail of the ventral tegmental area, projects to the midbrain dopaminergic system, dorsal raphe nucleus, locus coeruleus, and other regions. Whether the RMTg is involved in sleep–wake regulation is unknown. In the present study, pharmacogenetic activation of rat RMTg neurons promoted non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep with increased slow-wave activity (SWA). Conversely, rats after neurotoxic lesions of 8 or 16 days showed decreased NREM sleep with reduced SWA at lights on. The reduced SWA persisted at least 25 days after lesions. Similarly, pharmacological and pharmacogenetic inactivation of rat RMTg neurons decreased NREM sleep. Electrophysiological experiments combined with optogenetics showed a direct inhibitory connection between the terminals of RMTg neurons and midbrain dopaminergic neurons. The bidirectional effects of the RMTg on the sleep–wake cycle were mimicked by the modulation of ventral tegmental area (VTA)/substantia nigra compacta (SNc) dopaminergic neuronal activity using a pharmacogenetic approach. Furthermore, during the 2-hour recovery period following 6-hour sleep deprivation, the amount of NREM sleep in both the lesion and control rats was significantly increased compared with baseline levels; however, only the control rats showed a significant increase in SWA compared with baseline levels. Collectively, our findings reveal an essential role of the RMTg in the promotion of NREM sleep and homeostatic regulation. PMID:29652889

The E3 ubiquitin ligases β-TrCP and FBXW7 cooperatively mediates GSK3-dependent Mcl-1 degradation induced by the Akt inhibitor API-1, resulting in apoptosis.

PubMed

Ren, Hui; Koo, Junghui; Guan, Baoxiang; Yue, Ping; Deng, Xingming; Chen, Mingwei; Khuri, Fadlo R; Sun, Shi-Yong

2013-11-22

The novel Akt inhibitor, API-1, induces apoptosis through undefined mechanisms. The current study focuses on revealing the mechanisms by which API-1 induces apoptosis. API-1 rapidly and potently reduced the levels of Mcl-1 primarily in API-1-senstive lung cancer cell lines. Ectopic expression of Mcl-1 protected cells from induction of apoptosis by API-1. API-1 treatment decreased the half-life of Mcl-1, whereas inhibition of the proteasome with MG132 rescued Mcl-1 reduction induced by API-1. API-1 decreased Mcl-1 levels accompanied with a rapid increase in Mcl-1 phosphorylation (S159/T163). Moreover, inhibition of GSK3 inhibited Mcl-1 phosphorylation and reduction induced by API-1 and antagonized the effect of API-1 on induction of apoptosis. Knockdown of either FBXW7 or β-TrCP alone, both of which are E3 ubiquitin ligases involved in Mcl-1 degradation, only partially rescued Mcl-1 reduction induced by API-1. However, double knockdown of both E3 ubiquitin ligases enhanced the rescue of API-1-induced Mcl-1 reduction. API-1 induces GSK3-dependent, β-TrCP- and FBXW7-mediated Mcl-1 degradation, resulting in induction of apoptosis.

The E3 ubiquitin ligases β-TrCP and FBXW7 cooperatively mediates GSK3-dependent Mcl-1 degradation induced by the Akt inhibitor API-1, resulting in apoptosis

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background The novel Akt inhibitor, API-1, induces apoptosis through undefined mechanisms. The current study focuses on revealing the mechanisms by which API-1 induces apoptosis. Results API-1 rapidly and potently reduced the levels of Mcl-1 primarily in API-1-senstive lung cancer cell lines. Ectopic expression of Mcl-1 protected cells from induction of apoptosis by API-1. API-1 treatment decreased the half-life of Mcl-1, whereas inhibition of the proteasome with MG132 rescued Mcl-1 reduction induced by API-1. API-1 decreased Mcl-1 levels accompanied with a rapid increase in Mcl-1 phosphorylation (S159/T163). Moreover, inhibition of GSK3 inhibited Mcl-1 phosphorylation and reduction induced by API-1 and antagonized the effect of API-1 on induction of apoptosis. Knockdown of either FBXW7 or β-TrCP alone, both of which are E3 ubiquitin ligases involved in Mcl-1 degradation, only partially rescued Mcl-1 reduction induced by API-1. However, double knockdown of both E3 ubiquitin ligases enhanced the rescue of API-1-induced Mcl-1 reduction. Conclusions API-1 induces GSK3-dependent, β-TrCP- and FBXW7-mediated Mcl-1 degradation, resulting in induction of apoptosis. PMID:24261825

Infliximab in pediatric inflammatory bowel disease rapidly decreases fecal calprotectin levels

PubMed Central

Hämäläinen, Anssi; Sipponen, Taina; Kolho, Kaija-Leena

2011-01-01

AIM: To study the response to infliximab in pediatric inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), as reflected in fecal calprotectin levels. METHODS: Thirty-six pediatric patients with IBD [23 Crohn’s disease (CD), 13 ulcerative colitis (UC); median age 14 years] were treated with infliximab. Fecal calprotectin was measured at baseline, and 2 and 6 wk after therapy, and compared to blood inflammatory markers. Maintenance medication was unaltered until the third infusion but glucocorticoids were tapered off if the patient was doing well. RESULTS: At introduction of infliximab, median fecal calprotectin level was 1150 μg/g (range 54-6032 μg/g). By week 2, the fecal calprotectin level had declined to a median 261 μg/g (P < 0.001). In 37% of the patients, fecal calprotectin was normal (< 100 μg/g) at 2 wk. By week 6, there was no additional improvement in the fecal calprotectin level (median 345 μg/g). In 22% of the patients, fecal calprotectin levels increased by week 6 to pretreatment levels or above, suggesting no response (or a loss of early response). Thus, in CD, the proportion of non-responsive patients by week 6 seemed lower, because only 9% showed no improvement in their fecal calprotectin level when compared to the respective figure of 46% of the UC patients (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: When treated with infliximab, fecal calprotectin levels reflecting intestinal inflammation normalized rapidly in one third of pediatric patients suggesting complete mucosal healing. PMID:22215940

Real-time Tumor Oxygenation Changes After Single High-dose Radiation Therapy in Orthotopic and Subcutaneous Lung Cancer in Mice: Clinical Implication for Stereotactic Ablative Radiation Therapy Schedule Optimization

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

Song, Changhoon; Hong, Beom-Ju; Bok, Seoyeon

Purpose: To investigate the serial changes of tumor hypoxia in response to single high-dose irradiation by various clinical and preclinical methods to propose an optimal fractionation schedule for stereotactic ablative radiation therapy. Methods and Materials: Syngeneic Lewis lung carcinomas were grown either orthotopically or subcutaneously in C57BL/6 mice and irradiated with a single dose of 15 Gy to mimic stereotactic ablative radiation therapy used in the clinic. Serial [{sup 18}F]-misonidazole (F-MISO) positron emission tomography (PET) imaging, pimonidazole fluorescence-activated cell sorting analyses, hypoxia-responsive element-driven bioluminescence, and Hoechst 33342 perfusion were performed before irradiation (day −1), at 6 hours (day 0), and 2 (daymore » 2) and 6 (day 6) days after irradiation for both subcutaneous and orthotopic lung tumors. For F-MISO, the tumor/brain ratio was analyzed. Results: Hypoxic signals were too low to quantitate for orthotopic tumors using F-MISO PET or hypoxia-responsive element-driven bioluminescence imaging. In subcutaneous tumors, the maximum tumor/brain ratio was 2.87 ± 0.483 at day −1, 1.67 ± 0.116 at day 0, 2.92 ± 0.334 at day 2, and 2.13 ± 0.385 at day 6, indicating that tumor hypoxia was decreased immediately after irradiation and had returned to the pretreatment levels at day 2, followed by a slight decrease by day 6 after radiation. Pimonidazole analysis also revealed similar patterns. Using Hoechst 33342 vascular perfusion dye, CD31, and cleaved caspase 3 co-immunostaining, we found a rapid and transient vascular collapse, which might have resulted in poor intratumor perfusion of F-MISO PET tracer or pimonidazole delivered at day 0, leading to decreased hypoxic signals at day 0 by PET or pimonidazole analyses. Conclusions: We found tumor hypoxia levels decreased immediately after delivery of a single dose of 15 Gy and had returned to the pretreatment levels 2 days after irradiation and had decreased slightly by day 6. Our results indicate that single high-dose irradiation can produce a rapid, but reversible, vascular collapse in tumors.« less

Acute administration of fluoxetine normalizes rapid eye movement sleep abnormality, but not depressive behaviors in olfactory bulbectomized rats.

PubMed

Wang, Yi-Qun; Tu, Zhi-Cai; Xu, Xing-Yuan; Li, Rui; Qu, Wei-Min; Urade, Yoshihiro; Huang, Zhi-Li

2012-01-01

In humans, depression is associated with altered rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. However, the exact nature of the relationship between depressive behaviors and sleep abnormalities is debated. In this study, bilateral olfactory bulbectomy (OBX) was carried out to create a model of depression in rats. The sleep-wake profiles were assayed using a cutting-edge sleep bioassay system, and depressive behaviors were evaluated by open field and forced swimming tests. The monoamine content and monoamine metabolite levels in the brain were determined by a HPLC-electrochemical detection system. OBX rats exhibited a significant increase in REM sleep, especially between 15:00 and 18:00 hours during the light period. Acute treatment with fluoxetine (10 mg/kg, i.p.) immediately abolished the OBX-induced increase in REM sleep, but hyperactivity in the open field test and the time spent immobile in the forced swimming test remained unchanged. Neurochemistry studies revealed that acute administration of fluoxetine increased serotonin (5-HT) levels in the hippocampus, thalamus, and midbrain and decreased levels of the 5-HT metabolite 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA). The ratio of 5-HIAA to 5-HT decreased in almost all regions of the brain. These results indicate that acute administration of fluoxetine can reduce the increase in REM sleep but does not change the depressive behaviors in OBX rats, suggesting that there was no causality between REM sleep abnormalities and depressive behaviors in OBX rats. © 2011 The Authors. Journal of Neurochemistry © 2011 International Society for Neurochemistry.

Mercury speciation and selenium in toothed-whale muscles

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

Sakamoto, Mineshi, E-mail: sakamoto@nimd.go.jp; Itai, Takaaki; Yasutake, Akira

2015-11-15

Mercury accumulates at high levels in marine mammal tissues. However, its speciation is poorly understood. The main goal of this investigation was to establish the relationships among mercury species and selenium (Se) concentrations in toothed-whale muscles at different mercury levels. The concentrations of total mercury (T-Hg), methylmercury (MeHg), inorganic mercury (I-Hg) and Se were determined in the muscles of four toothed-whale species: bottlenose dolphins (n=31), Risso's dolphins (n=30), striped dolphins (n=29), and short-finned pilot whales (n=30). In each species, the MeHg concentration increased with increasing T-Hg concentration, tending to reach a plateau. In contrast, the proportion of MeHg in T-Hgmore » decreased from 90–100% to 20–40%. The levels of T-Hg and Se showed strong positive correlations. Se/I-Hg molar ratios rapidly decreased with the increase of I-Hg and reached almost 1 in all species. These results suggested that the demethylated MeHg immediately formed Se/I-Hg equimolar complex of mercury selenide (HgSe) in their muscles. In addition, an X-ray absorption fine structure analysis (XAFS) of a bottlenose dolphin muscle confirmed that the dominant chemical form of the Se/I-Hg equimolar complex was HgSe. HgSe was mainly localized in cells near the endomysium using electron probe microanalysis (EPMA). These results suggested that the demethylated MeHg finally deposits within muscle cells of bottlenose dolphin as an inert HgSe. - Highlights: • T-Hg, MeHg, I-Hg and Se were determined in the muscles of four toothed-whales. • MeHg increased with increasing T-Hg and tended to reach a plateau in all species. • Se/I-Hg molar ratios rapidly decreased with increase of I-Hg and reached almost 1. • XAFS of bottlenose dolphin muscle confirmed that HgSe was dominant chemical form. • EPMA of bottlenose dolphin muscle showed that HgSe deposited in muscle cells.« less

Steroid levels and reproductive cycle of the Galápagos tortoise, Geochelone nigra, living under seminatural conditions on Santa Cruz Island (Galápagos).

PubMed

Schramm, B G; Casares, M; Lance, V A

1999-04-01

The Galápagos Islands are home to 11 subspecies of large terrestrial tortoises (Geochelone nigra). All Galápagos tortoises are considered endangered and approximately 12,000 animals still exist. Until now, the reproductive cycle of the Galápagos tortoise has been studied only in captive animals, and no data from free-ranging tortoises have been available. During a one-year period, blood samples were collected from male and female G. nigra living under seminatural conditions on Santa Cruz Island, Galápagos. Plasma steroid hormones were measured by radioimmunoassays (RIAs). In males, plasma testosterone and corticosterone increased a few months before the onset of the mating season. Peak levels were observed while most copulations occurred and environmental temperatures were highest. Both testosterone and corticosterone showed low levels during the cold and dry nesting season and high levels during the hot and rainy mating season. In females, testosterone and corticosterone also rose during the hot and rainy mating season. Both hormones peaked during the second half of the mating season and decreased during the cooler dry season. Female estradiol levels increased at the onset of the mating season, reaching the highest level at the peak of the mating season, which coincided with the highest annual temperatures measured. Estradiol slowly decreased within the next months and rapidly dropped at the onset of the nesting season when temperatures decreased. Progesterone levels were high close to the time of ovulation and showed clearly elevated levels at the beginning of the nesting season after some females had laid their first clutch. Progesterone decreased during the nesting season, when ambient temperatures began to decrease, and reached minimal levels in the postbreeding period shortly before the onset of the next mating season. There were significant annual variations in plasma testosterone in both males and females. Plasma corticosterone was generally higher in males than in females and varied throughout the year in both sexes. Copyright 1999 Academic Press.

Cocaine cues drive opposing context-dependent shifts in reward processing and emotional state.

PubMed

Wheeler, Robert A; Aragona, Brandon J; Fuhrmann, Katherine A; Jones, Joshua L; Day, Jeremy J; Cacciapaglia, Fabio; Wightman, R Mark; Carelli, Regina M

2011-06-01

Prominent neurobiological theories of addiction posit a central role for aberrant mesolimbic dopamine release but disagree as to whether repeated drug experience blunts or enhances this system. Although drug withdrawal diminishes dopamine release, drug sensitization augments mesolimbic function, and both processes have been linked to drug seeking. One possibility is that the dopamine system can rapidly switch from dampened to enhanced release depending on the specific drug-predictive environment. To test this, we examined dopamine release when cues signaled delayed cocaine delivery versus imminent cocaine self-administration. Fast-scan cyclic voltammetry was used to examine real-time dopamine release while simultaneously monitoring behavioral indexes of aversion as rats experienced a sweet taste cue that predicted delayed cocaine availability and during self-administration. Furthermore, the impact of cues signaling delayed drug availability on intracranial self-stimulation, a broad measure of reward function, was assessed. We observed decreased mesolimbic dopamine concentrations, decreased reward sensitivity, and negative affect in response to the cocaine-predictive taste cue that signaled delayed cocaine availability. Importantly, dopamine concentration rapidly switched to elevated levels to cues signaling imminent cocaine delivery in the subsequent self-administration session. These findings show rapid, bivalent contextual control over brain reward processing, affect, and motivated behavior and have implications for mechanisms mediating substance abuse. Copyright © 2011 Society of Biological Psychiatry. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Electronic quenching of OH A 2Σ + radicals in collisions with molecular hydrogen

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pollack, Ilana B.; Lei, Yuxiu; Stephenson, Thomas A.; Lester, Marsha I.

2006-04-01

Collisional quenching of electronically excited OH A 2Σ + radicals by molecular hydrogen introduces nonradiative pathways that rapidly remove OH population from the excited state, and result in a significantly decreased fluorescence lifetime. One of these pathways is shown to lead to ground state OH X 2Π products with ˜1 eV of internal excitation in both highly excited rotational levels of v = 1 and the lowest rotational levels of v = 2. This highly nonstatistical OH X 2Π product distribution reflects the passage of the HO-H 2 system through the conical intersection regions that couple the ground and excited state surfaces.

Rapid Recovery of Visual Function Associated with Blue Cone Ablation in Zebrafish

PubMed Central

Hagerman, Gordon F.; Noel, Nicole C. L.; Cao, Sylvia Y.; DuVal, Michèle G.; Oel, A. Phillip; Allison, W. Ted

2016-01-01

Hurdles in the treatment of retinal degeneration include managing the functional rewiring of surviving photoreceptors and integration of any newly added cells into the remaining second-order retinal neurons. Zebrafish are the premier genetic model for such questions, and we present two new transgenic lines allowing us to contrast vision loss and recovery following conditional ablation of specific cone types: UV or blue cones. The ablation of each cone type proved to be thorough (killing 80% of cells in each intended cone class), specific, and cell-autonomous. We assessed the loss and recovery of vision in larvae via the optomotor behavioural response (OMR). This visually mediated behaviour decreased to about 5% or 20% of control levels following ablation of UV or blue cones, respectively (P<0.05). We further assessed ocular photoreception by measuring the effects of UV light on body pigmentation, and observed that photoreceptor deficits and recovery occurred (p<0.01) with a timeline coincident to the OMR results. This corroborated and extended previous conclusions that UV cones are required photoreceptors for modulating body pigmentation, addressing assumptions that were unavoidable in previous experiments. Functional vision recovery following UV cone ablation was robust, as measured by both assays, returning to control levels within four days. In contrast, robust functional recovery following blue cone ablation was unexpectedly rapid, returning to normal levels within 24 hours after ablation. Ablation of cones led to increased proliferation in the retina, though the rapid recovery of vision following blue cone ablation was demonstrated to not be mediated by blue cone regeneration. Thus rapid visual recovery occurs following ablation of some, but not all, cone subtypes, suggesting an opportunity to contrast and dissect the sources and mechanisms of outer retinal recovery during cone photoreceptor death and regeneration. PMID:27893779

Effect of endovascular treatment on nitric oxide and renal function in Takayasu's arteritis with renovascular hypertension.

PubMed

Parildar, Zuhal; Gulter, Ceyda; Parildar, Mustafa; Oran, Ismail; Erdener, Dilek; Memis, Ahmet

2002-01-01

Renal involvement in Takayasu's arteritis (TA) effects the disease outcome and endovascular treatment is an effective treatment of choice. We investigated nitric oxide (NO) levels and the effect of endovascular treatment in renovascular hypertensive TA patients. In five hypertensive patients with renal artery stenosis due to TA, serum creatinine, nitrite, nitrate; urinary microalbumin, nitrite, nitrate measurements and blood pressures were recorded at entry and after 24 h and 6 weeks of endovascular treatment. Serum NO levels were higher in patients than controls (p = 0.008). Serum and urine NO levels increased 24 h after the treatment and decreased after 6 weeks (p = 0.015; p = 0.01, respectively). After the treatment blood pressures decreased. Urinary microalbumin excretions increased after the intervention (p = 0.02) and returned to normal in patients 1 and 4, and decreased in the others. There were no significant differences in estimated glomerular filtration rate (EGFR), serum creatinine, urinary sodium and potassium levels. Increased NO secretion in these patients may contribute to improve the prognosis of renal function through its vasodilator and antiproliferative activities possibly by counterbalancing the excessive vasoconstrictor actions. Endovascular treatment causes a dilatation-induced shear stress that may be responsible for the increased NO release, which in turn leads to the rapid hypotensive response. Copyright 2002 S. Karger AG, Basel

Leptin rapidly induces the expression of metabolic and myokine genes in C2C12 muscle cells to regulate nutrient partition and oxidation.

PubMed

Nozhenko, Yuriy; Rodríguez, Ana M; Palou, Andreu

2015-01-01

Skeletal muscle can experience pronounced metabolic adaptations in response to extrinsic stimuli, and expresses leptin receptor (OB-Rb). We aimed to further the understanding of leptin effects on muscle cells, by studying the expression of key energy metabolism genes in C2C12 myotubes. We performed a dose-time-dependent study with physiological concentrations of leptin: 5, 10 and 50 ng/ml, for 0, 30', 3h, 6h, 12h and 24h, also monitoring time-course changes in non-treated cells. mRNA levels were analyzed by RT-qPCR and peroxisome proliferator activated receptor γ coactivator 1α (PGC1α) protein levels by western blot. The most significant effects were observed with 50 ng/ml leptin. In the short-term (30' and/or 3h), leptin significantly induced the expression of PGC1α, muscle carnitine palmitoyl transferase 1 (mCPT1), uncoupling protein 3 (UCP3), OB-Rb, Insulin receptor (InsR) and interleukins 6 and 15 (IL6, IL15). There was a decrease in mRNA levels of pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase 4 (PDK4) and mCPT1 in the long-term (24h). PGC1α protein levels were increased (24h). Leptin rapidly induces the expression of genes important for its own response and the control of metabolic fuels, with the rapid responses of the genes encoding the master regulator PGC1α, mCPT1, UCP3, PDK4 and the signaling secretory molecule IL6 particularly interesting. © 2015 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Selective accumulation of biotin in arterial chemoreceptors: requirement for carotid body exocytotic dopamine secretion.

PubMed

Ortega-Sáenz, Patricia; Macías, David; Levitsky, Konstantin L; Rodríguez-Gómez, José A; González-Rodríguez, Patricia; Bonilla-Henao, Victoria; Arias-Mayenco, Ignacio; López-Barneo, José

2016-12-15

Biotin, a vitamin whose main role is as a coenzyme for carboxylases, accumulates at unusually large amounts within cells of the carotid body (CB). In biotin-deficient rats biotin rapidly disappears from the blood; however, it remains at relatively high levels in CB glomus cells. The CB contains high levels of mRNA for SLC5a6, a biotin transporter, and SLC19a3, a thiamine transporter regulated by biotin. Animals with biotin deficiency exhibit pronounced metabolic lactic acidosis. Remarkably, glomus cells from these animals have normal electrical and neurochemical properties. However, they show a marked decrease in the size of quantal dopaminergic secretory events. Inhibitors of the vesicular monoamine transporter 2 (VMAT2) mimic the effect of biotin deficiency. In biotin-deficient animals, VMAT2 protein expression decreases in parallel with biotin depletion in CB cells. These data suggest that dopamine transport and/or storage in small secretory granules in glomus cells depend on biotin. Biotin is a water-soluble vitamin required for the function of carboxylases as well as for the regulation of gene expression. Here, we report that biotin accumulates in unusually large amounts in cells of arterial chemoreceptors, carotid body (CB) and adrenal medulla (AM). We show in a biotin-deficient rat model that the vitamin rapidly disappears from the blood and other tissues (including the AM), while remaining at relatively high levels in the CB. We have also observed that, in comparison with other peripheral neural tissues, CB cells contain high levels of SLC5a6, a biotin transporter, and SLC19a3, a thiamine transporter regulated by biotin. Biotin-deficient rats show a syndrome characterized by marked weight loss, metabolic lactic acidosis, aciduria and accelerated breathing with normal responsiveness to hypoxia. Remarkably, CB cells from biotin-deficient animals have normal electrophysiological and neurochemical (ATP levels and catecholamine synthesis) properties; however, they exhibit a marked decrease in the size of quantal catecholaminergic secretory events, which is not seen in AM cells. A similar differential secretory dysfunction is observed in CB cells treated with tetrabenazine, a selective inhibitor of the vesicular monoamine transporter 2 (VMAT2). VMAT2 is highly expressed in glomus cells (in comparison with VMAT1), and in biotin-deficient animals VMAT2 protein expression decreases in parallel with the decrease of biotin accumulated in CB cells. These data suggest that biotin has an essential role in the homeostasis of dopaminergic transmission modulating the transport and/or storage of transmitters within small secretory granules in glomus cells. © 2016 The Authors. The Journal of Physiology © 2016 The Physiological Society.

Bidirectional Anticipation of Future Osmotic Challenges by Vasopressin Neurons.

PubMed

Mandelblat-Cerf, Yael; Kim, Angela; Burgess, Christian R; Subramanian, Siva; Tannous, Bakhos A; Lowell, Bradford B; Andermann, Mark L

2017-01-04

Ingestion of water and food are major hypo- and hyperosmotic challenges. To protect the body from osmotic stress, posterior pituitary-projecting, vasopressin-secreting neurons (VP pp neurons) counter osmotic perturbations by altering their release of vasopressin, which controls renal water excretion. Vasopressin levels begin to fall within minutes of water consumption, even prior to changes in blood osmolality. To ascertain the precise temporal dynamics by which water or food ingestion affect VP pp neuron activity, we directly recorded the spiking and calcium activity of genetically defined VP pp neurons. In states of elevated osmolality, water availability rapidly decreased VP pp neuron activity within seconds, beginning prior to water ingestion, upon presentation of water-predicting cues. In contrast, food availability following food restriction rapidly increased VP pp neuron activity within seconds, but only following feeding onset. These rapid and distinct changes in activity during drinking and feeding suggest diverse neural mechanisms underlying anticipatory regulation of VP pp neurons. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Integration and segregation of large-scale brain networks during short-term task automatization

PubMed Central

Mohr, Holger; Wolfensteller, Uta; Betzel, Richard F.; Mišić, Bratislav; Sporns, Olaf; Richiardi, Jonas; Ruge, Hannes

2016-01-01

The human brain is organized into large-scale functional networks that can flexibly reconfigure their connectivity patterns, supporting both rapid adaptive control and long-term learning processes. However, it has remained unclear how short-term network dynamics support the rapid transformation of instructions into fluent behaviour. Comparing fMRI data of a learning sample (N=70) with a control sample (N=67), we find that increasingly efficient task processing during short-term practice is associated with a reorganization of large-scale network interactions. Practice-related efficiency gains are facilitated by enhanced coupling between the cingulo-opercular network and the dorsal attention network. Simultaneously, short-term task automatization is accompanied by decreasing activation of the fronto-parietal network, indicating a release of high-level cognitive control, and a segregation of the default mode network from task-related networks. These findings suggest that short-term task automatization is enabled by the brain's ability to rapidly reconfigure its large-scale network organization involving complementary integration and segregation processes. PMID:27808095

Reversible Ca2+-induced fast-to-slow transition in primary skeletal muscle culture cells at the mRNA level

PubMed Central

Meißner, Joachim D; Kubis, Hans-Peter; Scheibe, Renate J; Gros, Gerolf

2000-01-01

The adult fast character and a Ca2+-inducible reversible transition from a fast to a slow type of rabbit myotube in a primary culture were demonstrated at the mRNA level by Northern blot analysis with probes specific for different myosin heavy chain (MyHC) isoforms and enzymes of energy metabolism. No non-adult MyHC isoform mRNA was detected after 22 days of culture. After 4 weeks of culture the fast MyHCIId mRNA was strongly expressed while MyHCI mRNA was virtually absent, indicating the fast adult character of the myotubes in the primary skeletal muscle culture. The data show that a fast-to-slow transition occurred in the myotubes at the level of MyHC isoform gene expression after treatment with the Ca2+ ionophore A23187. The effects of ionophore treatment were decreased levels of fast MyHCII mRNA and an augmented expression of the slow MyHCI gene. Changes in gene expression started very rapidly 1 day after the onset of ionophore treatment. Levels of citrate synthase mRNA increased and levels of glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase mRNA decreased during ionophore treatment. This points to a shift from anaerobic to oxidative energy metabolism in the primary skeletal muscle culture cells at the level of gene expression. Withdrawal of the Ca2+ ionophore led to a return to increased levels of MyHCII mRNA and decreased levels of MyHCI mRNA, indicating a slow-to-fast transition in the myotubes and the reversibility of the effect of ionophore on MyHC isoform gene expression. PMID:10673542

Recent distribution of lead in the Indian Ocean reflects the impact of regional emissions.

PubMed

Echegoyen, Yolanda; Boyle, Edward A; Lee, Jong-Mi; Gamo, Toshitaka; Obata, Hajime; Norisuye, Kazuhiro

2014-10-28

Humans have injected lead (Pb) massively into the earth surface environment in a temporally and spatially evolving pattern. A significant fraction is transported by the atmosphere into the surface ocean where we can observe its transport by ocean currents and sinking particles. This study of the Indian Ocean documents high Pb concentrations in the northern and tropical surface waters and extremely low Pb levels in the deep water. North of 20°S, dissolved Pb concentrations decrease from 42 to 82 pmol/kg in surface waters to 1.5-3.3 pmol/kg in deep waters. South of 20°S, surface water Pb concentrations decrease from 21 pmol/kg at 31°S to 7 pmol/kg at 62°S. This surface Pb concentration gradient reflects a southward decrease in anthropogenic Pb emissions. The upper waters of the north and central Indian Ocean have high Pb concentrations resulting from recent regional rapid industrialization and a late phase-out of leaded gasoline, and these concentrations are now higher than currently seen in the central North Pacific and North Atlantic oceans. The Antarctic sector of the Indian Ocean shows very low concentrations due to limited regional anthropogenic Pb emissions, high scavenging rates, and rapid vertical mixing, but Pb still occurs at higher levels than would have existed centuries ago. Penetration of Pb into the northern and central Indian Ocean thermocline waters is minimized by limited ventilation. Pb concentrations in the deep Indian Ocean are comparable to the other oceans at the same latitude, and deep waters of the central Indian Ocean match the lowest observed oceanic Pb concentrations.

Stability of bisphenol A, triethylene-glycol dimethacrylate, and bisphenol A dimethacrylate in whole saliva.

PubMed

Atkinson, Jane C; Diamond, Francis; Eichmiller, Frederick; Selwitz, Robert; Jones, Gordon

2002-03-01

This study investigated the stability of compounds of dental sealant materials in a salivary matrix. Various amounts of bisphenol A (BPA), bisphenol A dimethacrylate (BIS-DMA) or triethylene-glycol dimethacrylate (TEGDMA) were added to whole salivary samples, and stored at -70 degrees C or -20 degrees C for up to 4 months. In other experiments, four separate whole salivary or water samples with BIS-DMA (200 ng/ml) were incubated for 0, 1, 2, 4 or 24h at 37 degrees C. Levels of analytes were determined by capillary gas chromatography/mass spectrophotometry (GC/MS) and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). BPA was stable under all tested conditions. Samples originally containing BIS-DMA had high levels of BPA and almost no BIS-DMA after 4 months at -20 degrees C. Salivary samples incubated at 37 degrees C originally containing only BIS-DMA (200 ng/ml) demonstrated rapid decreases of BIS-DMA and increases of BPA. By 24h, the mean BIS-DMA concentration fell to 21.8 (25) ng/ml, while BPA increased to 100 (48) ng/ml. Only slight decreases in BIS-DMA and no BPA were present in the water samples incubated at 37 degrees C. BPA, BIS-DMA, and TEGDMA were stable if salivary samples were stored at -70 degrees C. Acidification of salivary samples prevented the breakdown of BIS-DMA. BIS-DMA is converted rapidly to BPA in the presence of whole saliva. This could account for the findings of BPA in clinical samples collected after the placement of certain sealant products. Decreasing salivary pH and temperature can slow this process and this method should be used for clinical studies of salivary BPA leached from restorative materials.

Annual and semiannual variations of the geomagnetic field at equatorial locations

USGS Publications Warehouse

Campbell, W.H.

1981-01-01

For a year of quiet solar-activity level, geomagnetic records from American hemisphere observatories located between about 0?? and 30?? north geomagnetic latitude were used to compare the annual and semiannual variations of the geomagnetic field associated with three separate contributions: (a) the quiet-day midnight level, MDT; (b) the solar-quiet daily variation, Sq; (c) the quiet-time lunar semidiurnal tidal variation, L(12). Four Fourier spectral constituents (24, 12, 8, 6 h periods) of Sq were individually treated. All three orthogonal elements (H, D and Z) were included in the study. The MDT changes show a dominant semiannual variation having a range of about 7 gammas in H and a dominant annual variation in Z having a range of over 8 gammas. These changes seem to be a seasonal response to the nightside distortions by magnetospheric currents. There is a slow decrease in MDT amplitudes with increasing latitude. The Sq changes follow the patterns expected from an equatorial ionospheric dynamo electrojet current system. The dominant seasonal variations occur in H having a range of over 21 gammas for the 24 h period and over 12 gammas for the 12 h period spectral components. The higher-order components are relatively smaller in size. The Sq(H) amplitudes decrease rapidly with increasing latitude. Magnetospheric contributions to the equatorial Sq must be less than a few per cent of the observed magnitude. The L(12) variation shows the ionospheric electrojet features by the dominance of H and the rapid decrease in amplitude with latitude away from the equator. However, the seasonal variation range of over 7 gammas has a maximum in early February and minimum in late June that is not presently explainable by the known ionospheric conductivity and tidal behavior. ?? 1981.

Operation Everest III (Comex'97): the effect of simulated sever hypobaric hypoxia on lipid peroxidation and antioxidant defence systems in human blood at rest and after maximal exercise.

PubMed

Joanny, P; Steinberg, J; Robach, P; Richalet, J P; Gortan, C; Gardette, B; Jammes, Y

2001-06-01

Eight subjects were placed in a decompression chamber for 31 days at pressures from sea level (SL) to 8848 m altitude equivalent. Whole blood lipid peroxidation (LP) was increased at 6000 m by a mean of 23% (P<0.05), at 8000 m by 79% (P<0.01) and at 8848 m by 94% (P<0.01). (All figures are means.) Two days after return to sea level (RSL), it remained high, by 81% (P<0.01), while corresponding erythrocyte GSH/GSSG ratios decreased by 31, 46, 49, 48%, respectively (each P<0.01). Erythrocyte SOD and plasma ascorbate did not change significantly. At sea level, maximal exercise induced a 49% increase in LP (P<0.01), and a 27% decrease in erythrocyte GSH/GSSG ratio relative to resting values (P<0.05). At 6000 m, the LP was enhanced further from 23 (P<0.05) to 66% (P<0.01), and after RSL from 81 (P<0.01) to 232% (P<0.01), while pre-exercise GSH/GSSG ratios did not change significantly. Exercise did not change plasma ascorbate relative to sea level or to 6000 m, but decreased after RSL by 32% (P<0.01). These findings suggest that oxidative stress is induced by prolonged hypobaric hypoxia, and is maintained by rapid return to sea level, similar to the post-hypoxic re-oxygenation process. It is increased by physical exercise.

Purification of vitellin and dynamics of vitellogenesis in the parthenogenetic tick Haemaphysalis longicornis (Acari: Ixodidae).

PubMed

Yang, Xiaolong; Yu, Zhijun; He, Yanjie; Xu, Xiaoli; Gao, Zhihua; Wang, Hui; Chen, Jie; Liu, Jingze

2015-03-01

Vitellin (Vt) was purified from eggs of parthenogenetic bush tick Haemaphysalis longicornis by gel filtration and ion exchange chromatography. Our results revealed that only one single Vt existed in parthenogenetic bush tick, and the purified Vt was proved to be a hemoglycolipoprotein consisting of nine polypeptides with molecular weights of 203, 147, 126, 82, 74, 70, 61, 47 and 31 kDa, respectively. Polyclonal antibody and monoclonal antibody against Vt were produced using the purified Vt. The change in vitellogenin (Vg) and Vt levels over time of the parthenogenetic H. longicornis was established, and the Vg content in haemolymph and Vt in ovary at different feeding or engorgement statuses was also determined using a double antibody sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The Vg level in haemolymph was distinctly increased on the day of engorgement (1.785 mg/mL) and continued to increase until 2nd day post-engorgement (5.611 mg/mL). There was a slight decrease in Vg level after 4 days of engorgement, and a second peak was observed on day 2 post-oviposition (10.774 mg/mL). Subsequently, Vg content continuously decreased and reached a low level on the 10th day post-oviposition. The Vt content in ovary continuously increased once the female reached its critical weight (0.024 mg per female), and reached the maximum level on day 2 post-oviposition (1.942 mg per female). Afterwards, Vt content rapidly decreased.

Life-threatening hypophosphatemia and/or phosphate depletion in a patient with acute lymphoblastic leukemia: a rare case report.

PubMed

Soyoral, Yasemin; Aslan, Mehmet; Ebinc, Senar; Dirik, Yaren; Demir, Cengiz

2014-11-01

Acute severe hypophosphatemia can be life threatening and is associated with mortality and impaired cardiac and respiratory function. Several conditions including decreased absorption or increased urinary phosphate excretion, shifts from the extracellular to intracellular compartments, and phosphate consumption by rapidly proliferating cells are known to induce moderate to severe acute hypophosphatemia. Although hypophosphatemia and/or phosphate depletion in patients with acute or chronic myeloid leukemia have been reported in the literature, hypophosphatemia due to acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is very rare. We report a case of history of ALL complicated by life-threatening hypophosphatemia manifesting as generalized muscle weakness, fatigue, acute shortness of breath, and difficulty in standing up and walking for 3 days. Serum inorganic phosphate levels were consistently low (0.06 mmol/L). The patient was hospitalized and thought to have a relapsed ALL.Anticancer agents and oral phosphate (660 mg twice daily) were administered. On the second day of treatment, the patient began to improve, and the patient gradually fully recovered within 5 days.We suggested that this hypophosphatemia was induced by a shift of phosphorus into leukemic cells that rapidly replicated in the tissues and excessive cellular phosphate consumption by rapidly proliferating cells. Serum phosphate levels should always be monitored,especially in suspected life-threatening manifestation in relapsed ALL.

Rapid, transient, and highly localized induction of plastidial ω-3 fatty acid desaturase mRNA at fungal infection sites in Petroselinum crispum

PubMed Central

Kirsch, Christoph; Takamiya-Wik, Monica; Reinold, Susanne; Hahlbrock, Klaus; Somssich, Imre E.

1997-01-01

Parsley (Petroselinum crispum) plants and suspension-cultured cells have been used extensively for studies of non-host-resistance mechanisms in plant/pathogen interactions. We now show that treatment of cultured parsley cells with a defined peptide elicitor of fungal origin causes rapid and large changes in the levels of various unsaturated fatty acids. While linoleic acid decreased and linolenic acid increased steadily for several hours, comparatively sharp increases in oleic acid followed a biphasic time course. In contrast, the overall level of stearic acid remained unaffected. Using a PCR-based approach, a parsley cDNA was isolated sharing high sequence similarity with ω-3 fatty acid desaturases. Subsequent isolation and characterization of a full-length cDNA enabled its functional identification as a plastid-localized ω-3 fatty acid desaturase by complementation of the Arabidopsis thaliana fad7/8 double mutant which is low in trienoic fatty acids. ω-3 Fatty acid desaturase mRNA accumulated rapidly and transiently in elicitor-treated cultured parsley cells, protoplasts, and leaves, as well as highly localized around fungal infection sites in parsley leaf buds. These results indicate that unsaturated fatty acid metabolism is yet another component of the highly complex, transcriptionally regulated pathogen defense response in plants. PMID:9050908

Barley (Hordeum vulgare) circadian clock genes can respond rapidly to temperature in an EARLY FLOWERING 3-dependent manner

PubMed Central

Ford, Brett; Deng, Weiwei; Clausen, Jenni; Oliver, Sandra; Boden, Scott; Hemming, Megan; Trevaskis, Ben

2016-01-01

An increase in global temperatures will impact future crop yields. In the cereal crops wheat and barley, high temperatures accelerate reproductive development, reducing the number of grains per plant and final grain yield. Despite this relationship between temperature and cereal yield, it is not clear what genes and molecular pathways mediate the developmental response to increased temperatures. The plant circadian clock can respond to changes in temperature and is important for photoperiod-dependent flowering, and so is a potential mechanism controlling temperature responses in cereal crops. This study examines the relationship between temperature, the circadian clock, and the expression of flowering-time genes in barley (Hordeum vulgare), a crop model for temperate cereals. Transcript levels of barley core circadian clock genes were assayed over a range of temperatures. Transcript levels of core clock genes CCA1, GI, PRR59, PRR73, PRR95, and LUX are increased at higher temperatures. CCA1 and PRR73 respond rapidly to a decrease in temperature whereas GI and PRR59 respond rapidly to an increase in temperature. The response of GI and the PRR genes to changes in temperature is lost in the elf3 mutant indicating that their response to temperature may be dependent on a functional ELF3 gene. PMID:27580625

Mechanism of the synergistic effect of amiodarone and fluconazole in Candida albicans.

PubMed

Gamarra, Soledad; Rocha, Elousa Maria F; Zhang, Yong-Qiang; Park, Steven; Rao, Rajini; Perlin, David S

2010-05-01

The antiarrhythmic drug amiodarone has been found to have fungicidal activity. In Saccharomyces cerevisiae, its antifungal activity is mediated by calcium overload stress, which leads to a rapid nuclear accumulation of the calcineurin-regulated transcription factor CRZ1. In addition, low doses of amiodarone have been reported to be synergistic with fluconazole in fluconazole-resistant Candida albicans. To establish its mechanism of toxicity in C. albicans, we used expression profiling of key pathway genes to examine cellular responses to amiodarone alone and in combination with fluconazole. Gene expression profiling of 59 genes was done in five C. albicans strains (three fluconazole-susceptible strains and two fluconazole-resistant strains) after amiodarone and/or fluconazole exposure. Of the 59 genes, 27 analyzed showed a significant change (>2-fold) in expression levels after amiodarone exposure. The up- or downregulated genes included genes involved in Ca(2+) homeostasis, cell wall synthesis, vacuolar/lysosomal transport, diverse pathway regulation, stress response, and pseudohyphal morphogenesis. As expected, fluconazole induces an increase in ergosterol pathway genes expression levels. The combination treatment significantly dampened the transcriptional response to either drug, suggesting that synergism was due to an inhibition of compensatory response pathways. This dampening resulted in a decrease in total ergosterol levels and decreased pseudohyphal formation, a finding consistent with decreased virulence in a murine candidiasis model.

Levels of semenogelin in human spermatozoa decrease during capacitation: involvement of reactive oxygen species and zinc.

PubMed

de Lamirande, E; Lamothe, G

2010-07-01

Semenogelin (Sg), the main protein of human semen coagulum, prevents sperm capacitation. The objective of this study was to examine the role of Sg and its mechanism of action. Sg blocked sperm capacitation triggered by various stimuli, via inhibition of superoxide anion (O(2)*-; luminescence assay) and nitric oxide (NO*; tested using diaminofluorescein) generation. Triton-soluble and -insoluble sperm fractions contained Sg and Sg peptides (immunoblotting), the level of which decreased with initiation of capacitation. This drop was prevented by superoxide dismutase and NO* synthase inhibitor and was reproduced by addition of O(2)*- and NO*. Zinc (Zn(2+)) blocked and a zinc chelator (TPEN) promoted the decline in Sg levels. There was a decreased labelling of Sg on the head in capacitating spermatozoa with the two fixation techniques tested (immunocytochemistry). Reactive oxygen species (ROS) (O(2)*- and NO*) caused, these changes, and zinc prevented them. Spermatozoa quickly internalized Sg upon incubation and Sg was then rapidly degraded in a zinc-inhibitable manner. Sg blocked capacitation mainly via inhibition of ROS generation. Spermatozoa appeared permeable to Sg and processed Sg in a zinc-inhibitable fashion. ROS themselves could promote sperm disposal of Sg which maybe one of the mechanisms that allows initiation of capacitation.

Targeting Sphingosine Kinase-1 To Inhibit Melanoma

PubMed Central

Madhunapantula, SubbaRao V.; Hengst, Jeremy; Gowda, Raghavendra; Fox, Todd E.; Yun, Jong K; Robertson, Gavin P.

2012-01-01

SUMMARY Resistance to therapies develops rapidly for melanoma leading to more aggressive disease. Therefore, agents are needed that specifically inhibit proteins or pathways controlling the development of this disease, which can be combined, dependent on genes deregulated in a particular patient’s tumors. This study shows that elevated sphingosine-1-phosphate (S-1-P) levels resulting from increased activity of sphingosine kinase-1 (SPHK1) occur in advanced melanomas. Targeting SPHK1 using siRNA decreased anchorage dependent and independent growth as well as sensitized melanoma cells to apoptosis inducing agents. Pharmacological SPHK1 inhibitors SKI-I but not SKI-II decreased S-1-P content, elevated ceramide levels, caused a G2-M block and induced apoptotic cell death in melanomas. Targeting SPHK1 using siRNA or the pharmacological agent called SKI-I, decreased the levels of pAKT. Furthermore, SKI-I inhibited the expression of CYCLIN D1 protein and increased the activity of caspase-3/7, which in turn led to the degradation of PARP. In animals, SKI-I but not SKI-II retarded melanoma growth by 25-40%. Thus, targeting SPHK1 using siRNAs or SKI-I has therapeutic potential for melanoma treatment either alone or in combination with other targeted agents. PMID:22236408

Fitting the constitution type Ia supernova data with the redshift-binned parametrization method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huang, Qing-Guo; Li, Miao; Li, Xiao-Dong; Wang, Shuang

2009-10-01

In this work, we explore the cosmological consequences of the recently released Constitution sample of 397 Type Ia supernovae (SNIa). By revisiting the Chevallier-Polarski-Linder (CPL) parametrization, we find that, for fitting the Constitution set alone, the behavior of dark energy (DE) significantly deviates from the cosmological constant Λ, where the equation of state (EOS) w and the energy density ρΛ of DE will rapidly decrease along with the increase of redshift z. Inspired by this clue, we separate the redshifts into different bins, and discuss the models of a constant w or a constant ρΛ in each bin, respectively. It is found that for fitting the Constitution set alone, w and ρΛ will also rapidly decrease along with the increase of z, which is consistent with the result of CPL model. Moreover, a step function model in which ρΛ rapidly decreases at redshift z˜0.331 presents a significant improvement (Δχ2=-4.361) over the CPL parametrization, and performs better than other DE models. We also plot the error bars of DE density of this model, and find that this model deviates from the cosmological constant Λ at 68.3% confidence level (CL); this may arise from some biasing systematic errors in the handling of SNIa data, or more interestingly from the nature of DE itself. In addition, for models with same number of redshift bins, a piecewise constant ρΛ model always performs better than a piecewise constant w model; this shows the advantage of using ρΛ, instead of w, to probe the variation of DE.

Laboratory Investigation on Physical and Mechanical Properties of Granite After Heating and Water-Cooling Treatment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Fan; Zhao, Jianjian; Hu, Dawei; Skoczylas, Frederic; Shao, Jianfu

2018-03-01

High-temperature treatment may cause changes in physical and mechanical properties of rocks. Temperature changing rate (heating, cooling and both of them) plays an important role in those changes. Thermal conductivity tests, ultrasonic pulse velocity tests, gas permeability tests and triaxial compression tests are performed on granite samples after a heating and rapid cooling treatment in order to characterize the changes in physical and mechanical properties. Seven levels of temperature (from 25 to 900 °C) are used. It is found that the physical and mechanical properties of granite are significantly deteriorated by the thermal treatment. The porosity shows a significant increase from 1.19% at the initial state to 6.13% for samples heated to 900 °C. The increase in porosity is mainly due to three factors: (1) a large number of microcracks caused by the rapid cooling rate; (2) the mineral transformation of granite through high-temperature heating and water-cooling process; (3) the rapid cooling process causes the mineral particles to weaken. As the temperature of treatment increases, the thermal conductivity and P-wave velocity decrease while the gas permeability increases. Below 200 °C, the elastic modulus and cohesion increase with temperature increasing. Between 200 and 500 °C, the elastic modulus and cohesion have no obvious change with temperature. Beyond 500 °C, as the temperature increases, the elastic modulus and cohesion obviously decrease and the decreasing rate becomes slower with the increase in confining pressure. Poisson's ratio and internal frictional coefficient have no obvious change as the temperature increases. Moreover, there is a transition from a brittle to ductile behavior when the temperature becomes high. At 900 °C, the granite shows an obvious elastic-plastic behavior.

Fitting the constitution type Ia supernova data with the redshift-binned parametrization method

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

Huang Qingguo; Kavli Institute for Theoretical Physics China, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190; Li Miao

2009-10-15

In this work, we explore the cosmological consequences of the recently released Constitution sample of 397 Type Ia supernovae (SNIa). By revisiting the Chevallier-Polarski-Linder (CPL) parametrization, we find that, for fitting the Constitution set alone, the behavior of dark energy (DE) significantly deviates from the cosmological constant {lambda}, where the equation of state (EOS) w and the energy density {rho}{sub {lambda}} of DE will rapidly decrease along with the increase of redshift z. Inspired by this clue, we separate the redshifts into different bins, and discuss the models of a constant w or a constant {rho}{sub {lambda}} in each bin,more » respectively. It is found that for fitting the Constitution set alone, w and {rho}{sub {lambda}} will also rapidly decrease along with the increase of z, which is consistent with the result of CPL model. Moreover, a step function model in which {rho}{sub {lambda}} rapidly decreases at redshift z{approx}0.331 presents a significant improvement ({delta}{chi}{sup 2}=-4.361) over the CPL parametrization, and performs better than other DE models. We also plot the error bars of DE density of this model, and find that this model deviates from the cosmological constant {lambda} at 68.3% confidence level (CL); this may arise from some biasing systematic errors in the handling of SNIa data, or more interestingly from the nature of DE itself. In addition, for models with same number of redshift bins, a piecewise constant {rho}{sub {lambda}} model always performs better than a piecewise constant w model; this shows the advantage of using {rho}{sub {lambda}}, instead of w, to probe the variation of DE.« less

Evaluation of multiple modes of oximetry monitoring as an index of splanchnic blood flow in a newborn lamb model of hypoxic, ischemic, and hemorrhagic stress.

PubMed

Applegate, Richard L; Ramsingh, Davinder S; Dorotta, Ihab; Sanghvi, Chirag; Blood, Arlin B

2013-06-01

Early and aggressive treatment of circulatory failure is associated with increased survival, highlighting the need for monitoring methods capable of early detection. Vasoconstriction and decreased oxygenation of the splanchnic circulation are a sentinel response of the cardiovasculature during circulatory distress. Thus, we measured esophageal oxygenation as an index of decreased tissue oxygen delivery caused by three types of ischemic insult, occlusive decreases in mesenteric blood flow, and hemodynamic adaptations to systemic hypoxia and simulated hemorrhagic stress. Five anesthetized lambs were instrumented for monitoring of mean arterial pressure, mesenteric artery blood flow, central venous hemoglobin oxygen saturation, and esophageal and buccal microvascular hemoglobin oxygen saturation (StO2). The sensitivities of oximetry monitoring to detect cardiovascular insult were assessed by observing responses to graded occlusion of the descending aorta, systemic hypoxia due to decreased FIO2, and acute hemorrhage. Decreases in mesenteric artery flow during aortic occlusions were correlated with decreased esophageal StO2 (R = 0.41). During hypoxia, esophageal StO2 decreased significantly within 1 min of initiation, whereas buccal StO2 decreased within 3 min, and central venous saturation did not change significantly. All modes of oximetry monitoring and arterial blood pressure were correlated with mesenteric artery flow during acute hemorrhage. Esophageal StO2 demonstrated a greater decrease from baseline levels as well as a more rapid return to baseline levels during reinfusion of the withdrawn blood. These experiments suggest that monitoring esophageal StO2 may be useful in the detection of decreased mesenteric oxygen delivery as may occur in conditions associated with hypoperfusion or hypoxia.

Plasma leptin and growth hormone levels in the fine flounder (Paralichthys adspersus) increase gradually during fasting and decline rapidly after refeeding.

PubMed

Fuentes, Eduardo N; Kling, Peter; Einarsdottir, Ingibjörg Eir; Alvarez, Marco; Valdés, Juan Antonio; Molina, Alfredo; Björnsson, Björn Thrandur

2012-05-15

In fish, recent studies have indicated an anorexigenic role of leptin and thus its possible involvement in regulation of energy balance and growth. In the present study, the effects of fasting and refeeding periods on plasma leptin levels were studied in the fine flounder, a flatfish with remarkably slow growth. To further assess the endocrine status of the fish during periods of catabolism and anabolism, plasma growth hormone (GH) levels were also analyzed. Under normal feeding condition, plasma leptin and GH levels remained stable and relatively high in comparison with other teleost species. For the three separate groups of fish, fasted for 2, 3, and 4 weeks, respectively, plasma leptin levels increase gradually, becoming significantly elevated after 3 weeks, and reaching highest levels after 4-week fasting. Plasma GH levels were significantly elevated after 2-week fasting. At the onset of refeeding, following a single meal, leptin levels decline rapidly to lower than initial levels within 2 h, irrespective of the length of fasting. Plasma GH also decline, the decrease being significant after 4, 24 and 2 h for the 2, 3 and 4-week fasted groups, respectively. This study shows that plasma leptin levels in the fine flounder are strongly linked to nutritional status and suggests that leptin secretion is regulated by fast-acting mechanisms. Elevated leptin levels in fasted fish may contribute to a passive survival strategy of species which experience natural food shortage periods by lowering appetite and limiting physical foraging activity. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

A case report: anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis

PubMed Central

Bhat, Pavan; Ahmed, Ameer; Jolepalem, Preetam; Sittambalam, Charmian

2018-01-01

ABSTRACT N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) antibody encephalitis is a potentially fatal autoimmune syndrome in which there is antibody production against the NMDAR causing profound dysregulation of neurotransmission. The syndrome is frequently associated with ovarian teratomas and women are disproportionately affected. Patients most often present with a constellation of neuropsychiatric signs and symptoms, including memory loss, hallucinations, and decreased level of consciousness. This condition is lethal if left untreated. Immunotherapy and surgical resection of the culprit malignancy often results in the rapid resolution of symptoms. PMID:29915659

An insert-based enzymatic cell culture system to rapidly and reversibly induce hypoxia: investigations of hypoxia-induced cell damage, protein expression and phosphorylation in neuronal IMR-32 cells

PubMed Central

Huang, Ying; Zitta, Karina; Bein, Berthold; Steinfath, Markus; Albrecht, Martin

2013-01-01

SUMMARY Ischemia-reperfusion injury and tissue hypoxia are of high clinical relevance because they are associated with various pathophysiological conditions such as myocardial infarction and stroke. Nevertheless, the underlying mechanisms causing cell damage are still not fully understood, which is at least partially due to the lack of cell culture systems for the induction of rapid and transient hypoxic conditions. The aim of the study was to establish a model that is suitable for the investigation of cellular and molecular effects associated with transient and long-term hypoxia and to gain insights into hypoxia-mediated mechanisms employing a neuronal culture system. A semipermeable membrane insert system in combination with the hypoxia-inducing enzymes glucose oxidase and catalase was employed to rapidly and reversibly generate hypoxic conditions in the culture medium. Hydrogen peroxide assays, glucose measurements and western blotting were performed to validate the system and to evaluate the effects of the generated hypoxia on neuronal IMR-32 cells. Using the insert-based two-enzyme model, hypoxic conditions were rapidly induced in the culture medium. Glucose concentrations gradually decreased, whereas levels of hydrogen peroxide were not altered. Moreover, a rapid and reversible (onoff) generation of hypoxia could be performed by the addition and subsequent removal of the enzyme-containing inserts. Employing neuronal IMR-32 cells, we showed that 3 hours of hypoxia led to morphological signs of cellular damage and significantly increased levels of lactate dehydrogenase (a biochemical marker of cell damage). Hypoxic conditions also increased the amounts of cellular procaspase-3 and catalase as well as phosphorylation of the pro-survival kinase Akt, but not Erk1/2 or STAT5. In summary, we present a novel framework for investigating hypoxia-mediated mechanisms at the cellular level. We claim that the model, the first of its kind, enables researchers to rapidly and reversibly induce hypoxic conditions in vitro without unwanted interference of the hypoxia-inducing agent on the cultured cells. The system could help to further unravel hypoxia-associated mechanisms that are clinically relevant in various tissues and organs. PMID:24046359

Immediate propagation of deglacial environmental change to turbidite systems along the Chilean continental slope

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bernhardt, Anne; Schwanghart, Wolfgang; Hebbeln, Dierk; Stuut, Jan-Berend; Strecker, Manfred

2017-04-01

Understanding how Earth-surface processes respond to past climatic perturbations is crucial for making informed predictions about future impacts of climate change on sediment fluxes. Sedimentary records provide the archives for inferring these processes but their interpretation is compromised by our incomplete understanding of how sediment-routing systems respond to millennial-scale climate cycles. We analyzed seven sediment cores recovered from turbidite depositional sites along the continental slope of the Chile convergent margin. These depositional systems represent the ultimate sedimentary archives before sediment gets recycled during subduction processes and provide relatively continuous and well-dated records. The study sites span a pronounced arid-to-humid gradient with variable topographic gradients and related connectivity of terrestrial and marine landscapes on the continental slope. This setting allowed us to study event-related depositional processes from the Last Glacial Maximum to present in different climatic and geomorphic settings. The turbidite record was quantified in terms of turbidite thickness and frequency. The three studied sites show a steep decline of turbidite deposition during deglaciation. High rates of sea-level rise significantly lag the decline in turbidite deposition by 3-6.5 kyrs. However, comparison to paleoclimate proxies shows that this spatio-temporal sedimentary pattern mirrors the deglacial humidity decrease and concomitant warming with little to no lag times. Our results suggest that the deglacial humidity decrease resulted in a decrease of fluvial sediment supply, which propagated rapidly through the highly connected systems into the marine sink in north-central Chile. In contrast, in south-central Chilean systems, connectivity between the Andean erosional zone and the fluvial transfer zone probably decreased abruptly by the deglaciation of piedmont lakes, resulting in a significant and rapid decrease of sediment supply to the ocean. Additionally, reduced moisture supply may have also contributed to the rapid decline of turbidite deposition. These different causes result in similar depositional patterns in the marine sinks. We conclude that turbiditic strata can act as reliable recorders of climate change across a wide range of climatic zones and geomorphic conditions. However, the underlying causes for similar signal manifestations in the sinks may differ, ranging from maintained high system connectivity to abrupt connectivity loss.

Hormones, Nicotine and Cocaine: Clinical Studies

PubMed Central

Mello, Nancy K.

2009-01-01

Nicotine and cocaine each stimulate hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal and -gonadal axis hormones, and there is increasing evidence that the hormonal milieu may modulate the abuse-related effects of these drugs. This review summarizes some clinical studies of the acute effects of cigarette smoking or IV cocaine on plasma drug and hormone levels, and subjective effects ratings. The temporal covariance between these dependent measures was assessed with a rapid (two min) sampling procedure in nicotine-dependent volunteers or current cocaine users. Cigarette smoking and IV cocaine each stimulated a rapid increase in LH and ACTH, followed by gradual increases in cortisol and DHEA. Positive subjective effects ratings increased immediately after initiation of cigarette smoking or IV cocaine administration. However, in contrast to cocaine’s sustained positive effects (< 20 min), ratings of “High” and “Rush” began to decrease within one or two puffs of a high nicotine cigarette while nicotine levels were increasing. Peak nicotine levels increased progressively after each of three successive cigarettes smoked at 60 min intervals, but the magnitude of the subjective effects ratings and peak ACTH and cortisol levels diminished. Only DHEA increased consistently after successive cigarettes. The possible influence of neuroactive hormones on nicotine dependence and cocaine abuse, and implications for treatment of these addictive disorders is discussed. PMID:19835877

Polyamine levels as related to growth, differentiation and senescence in protoplast-derived cultures of Vigna aconitifolia and Avena sativa

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kaur Sawhney, R.; Shekhawat, N. S.; Galston, A. W.

1985-01-01

We have previously reported that aseptically cultured mesophyll protoplasts of Vigna divide rapidly and regenerate into complete plants, while mesophyll protoplasts of Avena divide only sporadically and senesce rapidly after isolation. We measured polyamine titers in such cultures of Vigna and Avena, to study possible correlations between polyamines and cellular behavior. We also deliberately altered polyamine titer by the use of selective inhibitors of polyamine biosynthesis, noting the effects on internal polyamine titer, cell division activity and regenerative events. In Vigna cultures, levels of free and bound putrescine and spermidine increased dramatically as cell division and differentiation progressed. The increase in bound polyamines was largest in embryoid-forming callus tissue while free polyamine titer was highest in root-forming callus. In Avena cultures, the levels of total polyamines decreased as the protoplast senesced. The presence of the inhibitors alpha-difluoromethyl-arginine (specific inhibitor of arginine decarboxylase), alpha-difluoromethylornithine (specific inhibitor of ornithine decarboxylase) and dicyclohexylamine (inhibitor of spermidine synthase) reduced cell division and organogenesis in Vigna cultures. Addition of low concentration of polyamines to such cultures containing inhibitors or removal of inhibitors from the culture medium restored the progress of growth and differentiation with concomitant increase in polyamine levels.

Fasting: The History, Pathophysiology and Complications

PubMed Central

Kerndt, Peter R.; Naughton, James L.; Driscoll, Charles E.; Loxterkamp, David A.

1982-01-01

An appreciation of the physiology of fasting is essential to the understanding of therapeutic dietary interventions and the effect of food deprivation in various diseases. The practice of prolonged fasting for political or religious purposes is increasing, and a physician is likely to encounter such circumstances. Early in fasting weight loss is rapid, averaging 0.9 kg per day during the first week and slowing to 0.3 kg per day by the third week; early rapid weight loss is primarily due to negative sodium balance. Metabolically, early fasting is characterized by a high rate of gluconeogenesis with amino acids as the primary substrates. As fasting continues, progressive ketosis develops due to the mobilization and oxidation of fatty acids. As ketone levels rise they replace glucose as the primary energy source in the central nervous system, thereby decreasing the need for gluconeogenesis and sparing protein catabolism. Several hormonal changes occur during fasting, including a fall in insulin and T3 levels and a rise in glucagon and reverse T3 levels. Most studies of fasting have used obese persons and results may not always apply to lean persons. Medical complications seen in fasting include gout and urate nephrolithiasis, postural hypotension and cardiac arrhythmias. ImagesFigure 4. PMID:6758355

Human impacts and changes in the coastal waters of south China.

PubMed

Wang, Linlin; Li, Qiang; Bi, Hongsheng; Mao, Xian-Zhong

2016-08-15

Human impact on the environment remains at the center of the debate on global environmental change. Using the Hong Kong-Shenzhen corridor in south China as an example, we present evidence that rapid urbanization and economic development in coastal areas were the dominant factors causing rapid changes in coastal waters. From 1990 to 2012, coastal seawater temperature increased ~0.060°C per year, sea level rose 4.4mm per year and pH decreased from 8.2 to 7.7, much faster than global averages. In the same period, there were exponential increases in the local population, gross domestic product and land fill area. Empirical analyses suggest that the large increase in the population affected local temperature, and economic development had a major impact on local pH. Results also show that pH and temperature were significantly correlated with local sea level rise, but pH had more predictive power, suggesting it could be considered a predictor for changes in local sea level. We conclude that human activities could significantly exacerbate local environmental changes which should be considered in predictive models and future development plans in coastal areas. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Temperature Regulation of Endogenous Gibberellin Activity and Development of Tulipa gesneriana L. 1

PubMed Central

Aung, L. H.; De Hertogh, A. A.; Staby, G.

1969-01-01

The changes in the contents of free and bound gibberellin-like activity (GA) of Tulipa gesneriana L. cv. Ralph during development under 2 temperature conditions were studied. The results show that the content of free GA of bulbs grown at 18° increased by 67% over the initial level during development. The bound GA showed a slight initial increase and was followed by a rapid decrease. In contrast, bulbs treated at 13° showed a marked decline in free GA and a 2-fold increase in the content of bound GA. However, after the transfer of these bulbs from 13° to 18° the free GA increased to the initial level while the bound GA decreased to a low level. The rate of floral shoot and root development and time of flowering were accelerated at 18° as compared to 13°. From the data obtained, it was suggested that a temperature-sensitive interconversion mechanism between free and bound GA exists in tulip bulbs and that there is apparent synthesis or transformation of these phytohormones during development of the bulbs. PMID:16657075

Temporary hearing loss influences post-stimulus time histogram and single neuron action potential estimates from human compound action potentials

PubMed Central

Lichtenhan, Jeffery T.; Chertoff, Mark E.

2008-01-01

An analytic compound action potential (CAP) obtained by convolving functional representations of the post-stimulus time histogram summed across auditory nerve neurons [P(t)] and a single neuron action potential [U(t)] was fit to human CAPs. The analytic CAP fit to pre- and postnoise-induced temporary hearing threshold shift (TTS) estimated in vivoP(t) and U(t) and the number of neurons contributing to the CAPs (N). The width of P(t) decreased with increasing signal level and was wider at the lowest signal level following noise exposure. P(t) latency decreased with increasing signal level and was shorter at all signal levels following noise exposure. The damping and oscillatory frequency of U(t) increased with signal level. For subjects with large amounts of TTS, U(t) had greater damping than before noise exposure particularly at low signal levels. Additionally, U(t) oscillation was lower in frequency at all click intensities following noise exposure. N increased with signal level and was smaller after noise exposure at the lowest signal level. Collectively these findings indicate that neurons contributing to the CAP during TTS are fewer in number, shorter in latency, and poorer in synchrony than before noise exposure. Moreover, estimates of single neuron action potentials may decay more rapidly and have a lower oscillatory frequency during TTS. PMID:18397026

Some new speculative ideas about the “behavioral homeostasis theory” as to how the simple learned behaviors of habituation and sensitization improve organism survival throughout phylogeny

PubMed Central

Eisenstein, Edward M.; Eisenstein, Doris L.; Sarma, Jonnalagedda Sarma M.; Knapp, Herschel; Smith, James C.

2012-01-01

This paper explores further the “behavioral homeostasis theory” (BHT) regarding the evolutionary significance for organism survival of the two simple non-associative rapidly learned behaviors of habituation and sensitization. The BHT postulates that the evolutionary function of habituation and sensitization throughout phylogeny is to rapidly maximize an organism’s overall readiness to cope with new stimuli and to minimize unnecessary energy expenditure. These behaviors have survived with remarkable similarity throughout phylogeny from aneural protozoa to humans. The concept of “behavioral homeostasis” emphasizes that the homeostatic process is more than just maintaining internal equilibrium in the face of changing internal and external conditions. It emphasizes the rapid internal and external effector system changes that occur to optimize organism readiness to cope with any new external stimulus situation. Truly life-threatening stimuli elicit instinctive behavior such as fight, flee, or hide. If the stimulus is not life-threatening, the organism rapidly learns to adjust to an appropriate level of overall responsiveness over stimulus repetitions. The rapid asymptotic level approached by those who decrease their overall responsiveness to the second stimulus (habituaters) and those who increase their overall responsiveness to an identical second stimulus (sensitizers) not only optimizes readiness to cope with any new stimulus situation but also reduces unnecessary energy expenditure. This paper is based on a retrospective analysis of data from 4 effector system responses to eight repetitive tone stimuli in adult human males. The effector systems include the galvanic skin response, finger pulse volume, muscle frontalis and heart rate. The new information provides the basis for further exploration of the BHT including new predictions and proposed relatively simple experiments to test them. PMID:22896782

Blood banking-induced alteration of red blood cell oxygen release ability

PubMed Central

Li, Yaojin; Xiong, Yanlian; Wang, Ruofeng; Tang, Fuzhou; Wang, Xiang

2016-01-01

Background Current blood banking procedures may not fully preserve red blood cell (RBC) function during storage, contributing to the decrease of RBC oxygen release ability. This study was undertaken to evaluate the impact of routine cold storage on RBC oxygen release ability. Materials and methods RBC units were collected from healthy donors and each unit was split into two parts (whole blood and suspended RBC) to exclude possible donor variability. Oxygen dissociation measurements were performed on blood units stored at 4 °C during a 5-week period. 2,3-diphosphoglycerate levels and fluorescent micrographs of erythrocyte band 3 were also analysed. Results P50 and oxygen release capacity decreased rapidly during the first 3 weeks, and then did not change significantly. In contrast, the kinetic properties (PO2-t curve and T*50) of oxygen release changed slowly during the first 3 weeks of storage, but then decreased significantly in the last 2 weeks. 2,3-diphosphoglycerate decreased quickly during the first 3 weeks of storage to almost undetectable levels. Band 3 aggregated significantly during the last 2 weeks of storage. Discussion RBC oxygen release ability appears to be sensitive to routine cold storage. The thermodynamic characteristics of RBC oxygen release ability changed mainly in the first 3 weeks of storage, due to the decrease of 2,3-diphosphoglycerate, whereas the kinetic characteristics of RBC oxygen release ability decreased significantly at the end of storage, probably affected by alterations of band 3. PMID:26674824

Blood banking-induced alteration of red blood cell oxygen release ability.

PubMed

Li, Yaojin; Xiong, Yanlian; Wang, Ruofeng; Tang, Fuzhou; Wang, Xiang

2016-05-01

Current blood banking procedures may not fully preserve red blood cell (RBC) function during storage, contributing to the decrease of RBC oxygen release ability. This study was undertaken to evaluate the impact of routine cold storage on RBC oxygen release ability. RBC units were collected from healthy donors and each unit was split into two parts (whole blood and suspended RBC) to exclude possible donor variability. Oxygen dissociation measurements were performed on blood units stored at 4 °C during a 5-week period. 2,3-diphosphoglycerate levels and fluorescent micrographs of erythrocyte band 3 were also analysed. P50 and oxygen release capacity decreased rapidly during the first 3 weeks, and then did not change significantly. In contrast, the kinetic properties (PO2-t curve and T*50) of oxygen release changed slowly during the first 3 weeks of storage, but then decreased significantly in the last 2 weeks. 2,3-diphosphoglycerate decreased quickly during the first 3 weeks of storage to almost undetectable levels. Band 3 aggregated significantly during the last 2 weeks of storage. RBC oxygen release ability appears to be sensitive to routine cold storage. The thermodynamic characteristics of RBC oxygen release ability changed mainly in the first 3 weeks of storage, due to the decrease of 2,3-diphosphoglycerate, whereas the kinetic characteristics of RBC oxygen release ability decreased significantly at the end of storage, probably affected by alterations of band 3.

Neuropharmacological and neurochemical properties of N-(2-cyanoethyl)-2-phenylethylamine, a prodrug of 2-phenylethylamine.

PubMed Central

Baker, G. B.; Coutts, R. T.; Rao, T. S.

1987-01-01

1 N-(2-cyanoethyl)-2-phenylethylamine (CEPEA) was examined as a possible prodrug of 2-phenylethylamine (PEA). 2 Pharmacokinetics of PEA and CEPEA were investigated in rat brain, blood and liver by gas chromatography with electron-capture detection (GC-ECD). Interactions of PEA and CEPEA with putative neurotransmitter amines were investigated by use of high performance liquid chromatography with electrochemical detection (h.p.l.c.-e.c.). 3 Administration of PEA caused transient increases in PEA concentrations which decreased rapidly in brain and blood and at a slower rate in liver. Administration of CEPEA caused sustained elevations of PEA concentrations and elimination of PEA was markedly decreased in these tissues relative to the situation after administration of PEA itself. 4 Administration of CEPEA caused more prolonged decreases in brain noradrenaline, dopamine and 5-hydroxytryptamine concentrations than those observed after PEA administration, although values increased to control levels eventually. PMID:2890391

Continuous and massive intake of chitosan affects mineral and fat-soluble vitamin status in rats fed on a high-fat diet.

PubMed

Deuchi, K; Kanauchi, O; Shizukuishi, M; Kobayashi, E

1995-07-01

We investigated the effects of continuous and massive intake of chitosan with sodium ascorbate (AsN) on the mineral and the fat-soluble vitamin status in male Sprague-Dawley rats fed on a high-fat diet. The apparent fat digestibility in the chitosan-receiving group was significantly lower than that in the cellulose- or glucosamine-receiving group. Chitosan feeding for 2 weeks caused a decrease in mineral absorption and bone mineral content, and it was necessary to administer twice the amount of Ca in the AIN-76 formula, which was supplemented with AsN, to prevent such a decrease in the bone mineral content. Moreover, the ingestion of chitosan along with AsN led to a marked and rapid decrease in the serum vitamin E level, while such a loss in vitamin E was not observed for rats given glucosamine monomer instead of chitosan.

Changes in primary metabolites and polyphenols in the peel of "Braeburn" apples (Malus domestica Borkh.) during advanced maturation.

PubMed

Bizjak, Jan; Mikulic-Petkovsek, Maja; Stampar, Franci; Veberic, Robert

2013-10-30

During the two growing seasons the evolution of primary metabolites and wide range of polyphenols in the "Braeburn" apple peel during advanced maturation were investigated. During the five weeks sucrose significantly increased, whereas fructose and glucose fluctuated around the same level in one season and decreased in another. Regarding malic and citric acids, an expected decrease was recorded. The concentrations of hydroxycinnamic acids, dihydrochalcones, and flavanols remained quite constant or slightly decreased during advanced apple ripening. On the contrary an intensive accumulation of quercetin glycosides and anthocyanins took place during this period, starting with the onset of rapid formation approximately 3 weeks before the technological maturity of apples. Total phenolic content was relatively constant or slightly increased. The present results suggest that measures designed to improve the apple color and quality of "Braeburn" apples should be performed approximately 3-4 weeks before the expected technological maturity of apples.

Status of Core Products of the International GNSS Service

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Choi, K. K.

2014-12-01

The International GNSS Service (IGS) has been providing high accuracy GNSS orbits, clocks and Earth Rotation Parameters (ERP) in three different time intervals. The quality of the IGS core products are regularly monitored since 2010, and the level of accuracies has not been changed noticeably. The Final and Rapid orbit's accuracies are known to be about ~2.5 cm and the near-real time (observed) Ultra-rapid orbit is about 3 cm. The real-time orbits obtained by propagating the Ultra-rapid orbits shows an accuracy of about 5 cm. The most significant error source of the real-time orbit is the sub-daily variation of the Earth orientation. Number of IGS08 core sites has been decreasing with the rate of ~0.13 stations per week due to equipment changes and natural disasters such as Earthquakes. This paper summarizes the quality state of the IGS core products for 2014, and the upcoming new official product IGV, Glonass Ultra-rapid orbit product which have been experimental for last 4 years. Eight IGS Analysis Centers (ACs) have completed their efforts to participate in the second reprocessing campaign (repro2). Based on their input, this paper summarizes the models and methodologies each AC have adopted for this campaign.

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

Hoadley, J.E.; Leinart, A.S.; Cousins, R.J.

Intestinal 65Zn transport and metallothionein levels were examined in rats fed zinc-adequate and zinc-deficient diets and in rats subjected to an overnight fast. 65Zn uptake by intestines perfused with 1.5 microM 65Zn was greater in both zinc-deficient and fasted groups than in the control group. Mucosal retention of 65Zn was also greater in the zinc-deficient group but not in the fasted group. The greater 65Zn uptake in the fasted group was associated with a compartment that readily released 65Zn back into the lumen. Kinetic analysis of the rate of 65Zn transfer to the vascular space (absorption) showed that 65Zn absorptionmore » involved approximately 3% of mucosal 65Zn in a 40-min perfusion period. The half-life (t1/2) of this mucosal 65Zn rapid transport pool corresponded directly to changes in intestinal metallothionein levels. Both metallothionein and t1/2 were higher in the fasted group and lower in the zinc-deficient group than in controls. While the rate of 65Zn transport from this rapid transport pool decreased with increasing metallothionein level, the predicted pool size increased when the metallothionein level was elevated by fasting. These results indicate that the rate of zinc absorption is inversely related to intestinal metallothionein levels, but the portion of mucosal 65Zn available for absorption is directly related to intestinal metallothionein.« less

Block of HERG human K(+) channel and IKr of guinea pig cardiomyocytes by chlorpromazine.

PubMed

Lee, So-Young; Choi, Se-Young; Youm, Jae Boum; Ho, Won-Kyung; Earm, Yung E; Lee, Chin O; Jo, Su-Hyun

2004-05-01

Chlorpromazine, a commonly used antipsychotic drug, has been known to induce QT prolongation and torsades de pointes, which can cause sudden death. We studied the effects of chlorpromazine on the human ether-a-go-go-related gene (HERG) channel expressed in Xenopus oocytes and on delayed rectifier K current of guinea pig ventricular myocytes. Application of chlorpromazine showed a dose-dependent decrease in the amplitudes of steady-state currents and tail currents of HERG. The decrease became more pronounced at increasingly positive potential, suggesting that the blockade of HERG by chlorpromazine is voltage dependent. IC50 for chlorpromazine block of HERG current was progressively decreased according to depolarization: IC50 values at -30, 0, and +30 mV were 10.5, 8.8, and 4.9 microM, respectively. The block of HERG current during the voltage step increased with time starting from a level 89% of the control current. In guinea pig ventricular myocytes, bath application of 2 and 5 microM chlorpromazine at 36 degree C blocked rapidly activating delayed rectifier K current (IKr) by 31 and 83%, respectively. How-ever, the same concentrations of chlorpromazine failed to significantly block slowly activating delayed rectifier K current (IKs). Our findings suggest that the arrhythmogenic side effect of chlorpromazine is caused by blockade of HERG and rapid component of delayed rectifier K current rather than by blockade of the slow component.

Reply to Rhines and Huybers: Changes in the Frequency of Extreme Summer Heat

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hansen, James; Sato, Makiko; Ruedy, Reto

2013-01-01

Rhines and Huybers are correct that the decreasing number of measurement stations in recent years contributed slightly to our calculated increase of extreme summer mean temperature anomalies. However, the increased frequency of extreme heat anomalies is accounted for mainly by (i) higher mean temperature of recent decades relative to the base period 1951-1980, and (ii) the continuing upward temperature trend during recent decades. The effect of decreasing stations is shown by comparing our prior analysis with results using only stations with data records in both the base period and recent years (Fig. 1). The distribution is noisier, and the area with temperature anomaly exceeding three SDs during 2001-2011 decreases from 9.6 to 9.3% for the reduced number of stations (1,886 rather than 6,147), but our conclusions are not changed qualitatively. The temperature anomaly distribution shifts to the right and broadens because it is defined relative to a fixed (1951-1980) base period, during which global temperatures were within the Holocene range. We argue on the basis of accelerating ice loss from Greenland and Antarctica and rapidly rising sea level (now exceeding 3 mm/y or 3 m per millennium) that temperatures in the early 21st century are already above the Holocene range, and thus use of a base period preceding the rapid warming of the past three decades has merit.

Evaluating the causes of photovoltaics cost reduction: Why is PV different?

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

Trancik, Jessika; McNerney, James; Kavlak, Goksin

The goals of this project were to quantify sources of cost reduction in photovoltaics (PV), improve theories of technological evolution, develop new analytical methods, and formu- late guidelines for continued cost reduction in photovoltaics. A number of explanations have been suggested for why photovoltaics have come down in cost rapidly over time, including increased production rates, significant R&D expenditures, heavy patenting ac- tivity, decreasing material and input costs, scale economies, reduced plant construction costs, and higher conversion efficiencies. We classified these proposed causes into low- level factors and high-level drivers. Low-level factors include technical characteristics, such as module efficiency ormore » wafer area, which are easily posed in terms of variables of a cost equation. High-level factors include scale economies, research and development (R&D), and learning-by-doing.« less

Sources and Transformations of Carbon and Nitrogen in the Potomac River Estuary

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pennino, M. J.; Kaushal, S.; Murthy, S.

2011-12-01

Urbanization has altered the transport of nitrogen (N) and carbon (C) in river ecosystems, making it important to understand how rivers are responding to these increased inputs of C and N. This study examines the capacity of a major tributary of the Chesapeake Bay, the Potomac River, to transform N and C inputs from the world's largest advanced wastewater treatment facility (Washington D.C. Water and Sewer Authority). Surface water and effluent samples were collected monthly for one year, along longitudinal transects of the Potomac River. Water samples were analyzed for the major dissolved and particulate forms of C and N. Nitrate stable isotopes were used to trace the fate of wastewater nitrate, as well as how other nitrate sources vary downriver. Sources of carbon downriver were traced using fluorescence spectroscopy, excitation emission matrices (EEMs), and PARAFAC modeling. Historical influent and effluent data on C and N levels were also compared with regional population growth data, climate change data, and long-term interannual records of C and N levels within downstream stations along the Potomac River. Improvements in treatment technology over the past two decades have shown significant decreases in effluent nitrogen levels, with corresponding decreases overtime of nutrients at downstream sampling stations. Levels of nitrate show increases within the vicinity of the wastewater treatment outfall, but decrease rapidly downstream, potentially indicating nutrient uptake and/or denitrification. Total organic carbon levels show a smaller decrease downstream, resulting in an increase in the C:N ratio downstream. Longitudinal river chemistry data also show that dissolved inorganic nitrogen goes down while total organic nitrogen goes up with distance downriver, indicating biological transformations are taking place along the river. Preliminary data from fluorescence EEMs suggested that more humic-like organic matter is important above the wastewater treatment plant, but more protein-like organic matter is present below the treatment plant. However, this fluorescence signal from wastewater organic matter disappears within 2-4 km downriver, indicating rapid processing of the labile organic matter within the river. Nitrate isotope data for both upriver and downriver samples show a signal from manure or sewage inputs, indicating a potential influence from animal farms upstream in the Potomac. However, only the downriver samples show evidence for denitrification. Additionally, the higher 15N isotope levels of nitrate, which are characteristic of wastewater sources, disappear by 20 km downriver. Majors rivers like the Potomac may have a huge capacity for transforming and processing large carbon and nitrogen inputs within a short distance. Greater knowledge of how land management and climate change impacts these transformations will be important in predicting changes in the amounts, forms, and stoichiometry of nutrient loads to coastal waters.

The role of slow and persistent TTX-resistant sodium currents in acute tumor necrosis factor-α-mediated increase in nociceptors excitability

PubMed Central

Gudes, Sagi; Barkai, Omer; Caspi, Yaki; Katz, Ben; Lev, Shaya

2014-01-01

Tetrodotoxin-resistant (TTX-r) sodium channels are key players in determining the input-output properties of peripheral nociceptive neurons. Changes in gating kinetics or in expression levels of these channels by proinflammatory mediators are likely to cause the hyperexcitability of nociceptive neurons and pain hypersensitivity observed during inflammation. Proinflammatory mediator, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), is secreted during inflammation and is associated with the early onset, as well as long-lasting, inflammation-mediated increase in excitability of peripheral nociceptive neurons. Here we studied the underlying mechanisms of the rapid component of TNF-α-mediated nociceptive hyperexcitability and acute pain hypersensitivity. We showed that TNF-α leads to rapid onset, cyclooxygenase-independent pain hypersensitivity in adult rats. Furthermore, TNF-α rapidly and substantially increases nociceptive excitability in vitro, by decreasing action potential threshold, increasing neuronal gain and decreasing accommodation. We extended on previous studies entailing p38 MAPK-dependent increase in TTX-r sodium currents by showing that TNF-α via p38 MAPK leads to increased availability of TTX-r sodium channels by partial relief of voltage dependence of their slow inactivation, thereby contributing to increase in neuronal gain. Moreover, we showed that TNF-α also in a p38 MAPK-dependent manner increases persistent TTX-r current by shifting the voltage dependence of activation to a hyperpolarized direction, thus producing an increase in inward current at functionally critical subthreshold voltages. Our results suggest that rapid modulation of the gating of TTX-r sodium channels plays a major role in the mediated nociceptive hyperexcitability of TNF-α during acute inflammation and may lead to development of effective treatments for inflammatory pain, without modulating the inflammation-induced healing processes. PMID:25355965

Coagulation processes of kaolinite and montmorillonite in calm, saline water

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Jin-Feng; Zhang, Qing-He; Maa, Jerome P.-Y.

2018-03-01

A three dimensional numerical model for simulating the coagulation processes of colloids has been performed by monitoring the time evolution of particle number concentration, the size distribution of aggregates, the averaged settling velocity, the collision frequency, and the collision efficiency in quiescent water with selected salinities. This model directly simulates all interaction forces between particles based on the lattice Boltzmann method (LBM) and the extended Derjaguin-Landau-Verwey-Overbeek (XDLVO) theory, and thus, can reveal the collision and coagulation processes of colloidal suspensions. Although using perfect spherical particles in the modeling, the results were compared with those for kaolinite and montmorillonite suspensions to demonstrate the capability of simulating the responses of these particles with highly irregular shape. The averaged settling velocity of kaolinite aggregates in quiescent saline water reached a maximum of 0.16 mm/s when the salinity increasing to about 3, and then, exhibited little dependence on salinity thereafter. Model simulations results (by choosing specific values that represent kaolinite's characteristics) indicate a similar trend: rapid decrease of the particle number concentration (i.e., rapidly flocculated, and thus, settling velocity also increases rapidly) when salinity increases from 0 to 2, and then, only increased slightly when salinity was further increased from 5 to 20. The collision frequency for kaolinite only decreases slightly with increasing salinity because that the fluid density and viscosity increase slightly in sea water. It suggests that the collision efficiency for kaolinite rises rapidly at low salinities and levels off at high salinity. For montmorillonite, the settling velocity of aggregates in quiescent saline water continuedly increases to 0.022 mm/s over the whole salinity range 0-20, and the collision efficiency for montmorillonite rises with increasing salinities.

A Critical Role of Mitochondria in BDNF-Associated Synaptic Plasticity After One-Week Vortioxetine Treatment.

PubMed

Chen, Fenghua; Danladi, Jibrin; Ardalan, Maryam; Elfving, Betina; Müller, Heidi K; Wegener, Gregers; Sanchez, Connie; Nyengaard, Jens R

2018-06-01

Preclinical studies have indicated that antidepressant effect of vortioxetine involves increased synaptic plasticity and promotion of spine maturation. Mitochondria dysfunction may contribute to the pathophysiological basis of major depressive disorder. Taking into consideration that vortioxetine increases spine number and dendritic branching in hippocampus CA1 faster than fluoxetine, we hypothesize that new spines induced by vortioxetine can rapidly form functional synapses by mitochondrial support, accompanied by increased brain-derived neurotrophic factor signaling. Rats were treated for 1 week with vortioxetine or fluoxetine at pharmacologically relevant doses. Number of synapses and mitochondria in hippocampus CA1 were quantified by electron microscopy. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor protein levels were visualized with immunohistochemistry. Gene and protein expression of synapse and mitochondria-related markers were investigated with real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction and immunoblotting. Vortioxetine increased number of synapses and mitochondria significantly, whereas fluoxetine had no effect after 1-week dosing. BDNF levels in hippocampus DG and CA1 were significantly higher after vortioxetine treatment. Gene expression levels of Rac1 after vortioxetine treatment were significantly increased. There was a tendency towards increased gene expression levels of Drp1 and protein levels of Rac1. However, both gene and protein levels of c-Fos were significantly decreased. Furthermore, there was a significant positive correlation between BDNF levels and mitochondria and synapse numbers. Our results imply that mitochondria play a critical role in synaptic plasticity accompanied by increased BDNF levels. Rapid changes in BDNF levels and synaptic/mitochondria plasticity of hippocampus following vortioxetine compared with fluoxetine may be ascribed to vortioxetine's modulation of serotonin receptors.

Low temperature stress on the hematological parameters and HSP gene expression in the turbot Scophthalmus maximus

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ji, Liqin; Jiang, Keyong; Liu, Mei; Wang, Baojie; Han, Longjiang; Zhang, Mingming; Wang, Lei

2016-05-01

To study the effect of low temperature stress on hematological parameters and HSP gene expression in the turbot ( Scophthalmus maximus), water temperature was lowered rapidly from 18 to 1°C. During the cooling process, three individuals were removed from culture tanks at 18, 13, 8, 5, 3, and 1°C. Blood samples and tissues were taken from each individual, hematological indices and HSP gene expression in tissues were measured. The red blood cell count, white blood cell count, and hemoglobin concentration decreased significantly ( P < 0.05) as temperature decreased. Enzyme activities of plasma alanine transaminase and creatine kinase increased as temperature decreased, whereas aspartic transaminase and γ-glutamyl transpeptidase activities displayed no obvious changes above 1°C and lactate dehydrogenase activity increased first and then decreased. Blood urea nitrogen and uric acid levels were highest at 8°C, and creatinine concentration was highest at 3°C. The concentrations of plasma cortisol, cholesterol, and triglyceride all increased significantly ( P < 0.05) as temperature decreased. The serum glucose concentration increased first and then decreased to the initial level. The HSP70 mRNA expression showed various patterns in different tissues, whereas HSP90 mRNA expression showed the same tendency in all tissues. Overall, these results indicate that temperature decreases in the range of 8 to 5°C may induce a stress response in S. maximus and that temperature should be kept above 8°C in the aquaculture setting to avoid damage to the fish.

An updated 26-year (1991-2017) sea level record from the Arctic Ocean

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kildegaard Rose, Stine; Baltazar Andersen, Ole; Passaro, Marcello; Benveniste, Jerome

2017-04-01

In recent years, there has been a large focus of the Arctic due the rapid changes of the region. The sea level of the Arctic Ocean is an important climate indicator. The Arctic sea ice is decreasing and has since 1997 experienced a steepening in the decrease. The Arctic sea level determination is challenging due to the seasonal to permanent sea ice cover, the lack of regional coverage of satellites, the satellite instruments ability to measure ice, insufficient geophysical models, residual orbit errors, challenging retracking of satellite altimeter data. We present the DTU/TUM 26-year sea level record based on satellite altimetry data in the Arctic Ocean from the ERS1 (1991) to CryoSat-2 (present) satellites. The sea level record is compared with several tide gauges and other available partial sea level records contributing to the ESA CCI Sea level initiative. We use updated geophysical corrections and a combination of altimeter data: REAPER (ERS1), ALES+ retracker (ERS2, Envisat), combined Rads and DTUs in-house retracker LARS (CryoSat-2). The ALES+ is an upgraded version of the Adaptive Leading Edge Subwaveform Retracker that has been developed to improve data quality and quantity in the coastal ocean, without degrading the results in the open ocean. ALES+ aims at retracking peaky waveforms typical of lead reflections without modifying the fitting model used in the open ocean.

Predictive value of serum bradykinin and desArg9-bradykinin levels for chemotherapeutic responses in active tuberculosis patients: A retrospective case series.

PubMed

Qian, Xu; Nguyen, Duc T M; Li, Yaojun; Lyu, Jianxin; Graviss, Edward A; Hu, Tony Y

2016-12-01

There is an urgent need for methods that can rapidly and accurately assess therapeutic responses in patients with active tuberculosis (TB) in order to predict treatment outcomes. Exposure to bacterial pathogens can rapidly activate the plasma contact system, triggering the release of bradykinin (BK) and its metabolite desArg 9 -bradykinin (DABK) to induce inflammation and innate immune responses. We hypothesized that serum BK and DABK levels might act as sensitive immune response signatures for changes in Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) burden, and therefore examined how serum levels of these markers corresponded with anti-TB therapy in a small cohort of active TB cases. Nanotrap Mass-Spectrometry (MS) was used to analyze serial blood specimens from 13 HIV-negative adults with microbiologically confirmed active TB who were treated with first-line anti-TB chemotherapy. MS signal for BK (m/z 1060.5) and DABK (m/z 904.5) serum peptides were evaluated at multiple time-points (before, during, and after treatment) to evaluate how BK and DABK levels corresponded with disease status. Serum BK levels declined from pretreatment baseline levels during the early stage anti-TB therapy (induction phase) and tended to remain below baseline levels during extended treatment (consolidation phase) and after therapy completion. BK levels were consistent with induction phase sputum culture conversions indicative of decreased Mtb burden reflecting good treatment responses. Serum DABK levels tended to increase during the induction phase and decrease at consolidation and post-therapy time points, which may indicate a shift from active disease to chronic inflammation to a disease free state. Elevated BK and DABK levels after treatment completion in one patient may be related to the subsequent recurrent TB disease. Our pilot data suggests that changes in the circulating BK and DABK levels in adult TB patients can be used as potential surrogate markers of the host response both early and late in anti-TB treatment for both pulmonary and extrapulmonary TB patients. We will further exploit these host-response signatures in the future as biomarkers in combination with other clinical and microbiologic tools which may improve treatment efficacy and facilitate the development of host-directed therapy. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Identification and suppression of the p-coumaroyl CoA:hydroxycinnamyl alcohol transferase in Zea mays L.

PubMed Central

Marita, Jane M; Hatfield, Ronald D; Rancour, David M; Frost, Kenneth E

2014-01-01

Grasses, such as Zea mays L. (maize), contain relatively high levels of p-coumarates (pCA) within their cell walls. Incorporation of pCA into cell walls is believed to be due to a hydroxycinnamyl transferase that couples pCA to monolignols. To understand the role of pCA in maize development, the p-coumaroyl CoA:hydroxycinnamyl alcohol transferase (pCAT) was isolated and purified from maize stems. Purified pCAT was subjected to partial trypsin digestion, and peptides were sequenced by tandem mass spectrometry. TBLASTN analysis of the acquired peptide sequences identified a single full-length maize cDNA clone encoding all the peptide sequences obtained from the purified enzyme. The cDNA clone was obtained and used to generate an RNAi construct for suppressing pCAT expression in maize. Here we describe the effects of suppression of pCAT in maize. Primary screening of transgenic maize seedling leaves using a new rapid analytical platform was used to identify plants with decreased amounts of pCA. Using this screening method, mature leaves from fully developed plants were analyzed, confirming reduced pCA levels throughout plant development. Complete analysis of isolated cell walls from mature transgenic stems and leaves revealed that lignin levels did not change, but pCA levels decreased and the lignin composition was altered. Transgenic plants with the lowest levels of pCA had decreased levels of syringyl units in the lignin. Thus, altering the levels of pCAT expression in maize leads to altered lignin composition, but does not appear to alter the total amount of lignin present in the cell walls. PMID:24654730

Identification and suppression of the p-coumaroyl CoA:hydroxycinnamyl alcohol transferase in Zea mays L.

PubMed

Marita, Jane M; Hatfield, Ronald D; Rancour, David M; Frost, Kenneth E

2014-06-01

Grasses, such as Zea mays L. (maize), contain relatively high levels of p-coumarates (pCA) within their cell walls. Incorporation of pCA into cell walls is believed to be due to a hydroxycinnamyl transferase that couples pCA to monolignols. To understand the role of pCA in maize development, the p-coumaroyl CoA:hydroxycinnamyl alcohol transferase (pCAT) was isolated and purified from maize stems. Purified pCAT was subjected to partial trypsin digestion, and peptides were sequenced by tandem mass spectrometry. TBLASTN analysis of the acquired peptide sequences identified a single full-length maize cDNA clone encoding all the peptide sequences obtained from the purified enzyme. The cDNA clone was obtained and used to generate an RNAi construct for suppressing pCAT expression in maize. Here we describe the effects of suppression of pCAT in maize. Primary screening of transgenic maize seedling leaves using a new rapid analytical platform was used to identify plants with decreased amounts of pCA. Using this screening method, mature leaves from fully developed plants were analyzed, confirming reduced pCA levels throughout plant development. Complete analysis of isolated cell walls from mature transgenic stems and leaves revealed that lignin levels did not change, but pCA levels decreased and the lignin composition was altered. Transgenic plants with the lowest levels of pCA had decreased levels of syringyl units in the lignin. Thus, altering the levels of pCAT expression in maize leads to altered lignin composition, but does not appear to alter the total amount of lignin present in the cell walls. © 2014 The Authors The Plant Journal © 2014 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Response of Spring Diatoms to CO2 Availability in the Western North Pacific as Determined by Next-Generation Sequencing.

PubMed

Endo, Hisashi; Sugie, Koji; Yoshimura, Takeshi; Suzuki, Koji

2016-01-01

Next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies have enabled us to determine phytoplankton community compositions at high resolution. However, few studies have adopted this approach to assess the responses of natural phytoplankton communities to environmental change. Here, we report the impact of different CO2 levels on spring diatoms in the Oyashio region of the western North Pacific as estimated by NGS of the diatom-specific rbcL gene (DNA), which encodes the large subunit of RubisCO. We also examined the abundance and composition of rbcL transcripts (cDNA) in diatoms to assess their physiological responses to changing CO2 levels. A short-term (3-day) incubation experiment was carried out on-deck using surface Oyashio waters under different pCO2 levels (180, 350, 750, and 1000 μatm) in May 2011. During the incubation, the transcript abundance of the diatom-specific rbcL gene decreased with an increase in seawater pCO2 levels. These results suggest that CO2 fixation capacity of diatoms decreased rapidly under elevated CO2 levels. In the high CO2 treatments (750 and 1000 μatm), diversity of diatom-specific rbcL gene and its transcripts decreased relative to the control treatment (350 μatm), as well as contributions of Chaetocerataceae, Thalassiosiraceae, and Fragilariaceae to the total population, but the contributions of Bacillariaceae increased. In the low CO2 treatment, contributions of Bacillariaceae also increased together with other eukaryotes. These suggest that changes in CO2 levels can alter the community composition of spring diatoms in the Oyashio region. Overall, the NGS technology provided us a deeper understanding of the response of diatoms to changes in CO2 levels in terms of their community composition, diversity, and photosynthetic physiology.

Autoclave treatment of pig manure does not reduce the risk of transmission and transfer of tetracycline resistance genes in soil: successive determinations with soil column experiments.

PubMed

Kang, Yijun; Gu, Xian; Hao, Yangyang; Hu, Jian

2016-03-01

The increasing use of antibiotics, especially tetracycline, in livestock feed adversely affects animal health and ecological integrity. Therefore, approaches to decrease this risk are urgently needed. High temperatures facilitate antibiotic degradation; whether this reduces transmission risk and transfer of tetracycline-resistant bacteria (TRBs) and tetracycline resistance genes (TRGs) in soil remains unknown. Successive experiments with soil columns evaluated the effects of autoclaving pig manure (APM) on soil TRB populations and TRGs over time at different soil depths. The data showed sharp increases in TRB populations and TRGs in each subsoil layer of PM (non-APM) and APM treatments within 30 days, indicating that TRBs and TRGs transferred rapidly. The level of TRBs in the upper soil layers was approximately 15-fold higher than in subsoils. TRBs were not dependent on PM and APM levels, especially in the late phase. Nevertheless, higher levels of APM led to rapid expansion of TRBs as compared to PM. Moreover, temporal changes in TRB frequencies in total culturable bacteria (TCBs) were similar to TRBs, indicating that the impact of PM or APM on TRBs was more obvious than for TCBs. TRBs were hypothesized to depend on the numbers of TRGs and indigenous recipient bacteria. In the plough layer, five TRGs (tetB, tetG, tetM, tetW, and tetB/P) existed in each treatment within 150 days. Selective pressure of TC may not be a necessary condition for the transfer and persistence of TRGs in soil. High temperatures might reduce TRBs in PM, which had minimal impact on the transmission and transfer of TRGs in soil. Identifying alternatives to decrease TRG transmission remains a major challenge.

Lake Urmia (Iran): can future socio-ecologically motivated river basin management restore lake water levels in an arid region with extensive agricultural development?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fazel, Nasim; Berndtsson, Ronny; Bertacchi Uvo, Cintia; Klove, Bjorn; Madani, Kaveh

2015-04-01

Lake Urmia, one of the world's largest hyper saline lakes located in northwest of Iran, is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and Ramsar site, protected as a national park and, supports invaluable and unique biodiversity and related ecosystem services for the region's 6.5 million inhabitants. Due to increased development of the region's water resources for agriculture and industry and to a certain extent climate change, the lake has started to shrink dramatically since 1995 and now is holding less than 30 percent of its volume. Rapid development in agricultural sector and land-use changes has resulted in immense construction of dams and water diversions in almost all lake feeding rivers, intensifying lake shrinking, increasing salinity and degrading its ecosystem. Recently, lake's cultural and environmental importance and social pressure has raised concerns and brought government attention to the lake restoration plans. Along with poor management, low yield agriculture as the most water consuming activity in the region with, rapid, insufficient development is one of the most influential drivers in the lake desiccation. Part of the lake restoration plans in agricultural sector is to restrict the agricultural areas in the main feeding river basins flowing mostly in the southern part of the lake and decreasing the agricultural water use in this area. This study assess the efficiency and effectiveness of the proposed plans and its influence on the lake level rise and its impacts on economy in the region using a system dynamics model developed for the Lake consist of hydrological and agro-economical sub-systems. The effect of decrease in agricultural area in the region on GDP and region economy was evaluated and compared with released water contribution in lake level rise for a five year simulation period.

A 10-s sprint performed prior to moderate-intensity exercise prevents early post-exercise fall in glycaemia in individuals with type 1 diabetes.

PubMed

Bussau, V A; Ferreira, L D; Jones, T W; Fournier, P A

2007-09-01

We investigated whether a 10-s maximal sprint effort performed immediately prior to moderate-intensity exercise provides another means to counter the rapid fall in glycaemia associated with moderate-intensity exercise in individuals with type 1 diabetes. Seven complication-free type 1 diabetic males (21.6 +/- 3.6 years; mean+/-SD) with HbA(1c) levels of 7.4 +/- 0.7% injected their normal morning insulin dose and ate their usual breakfast. When post-meal glycaemia fell to approximately 11 mmol/l, participants were asked to perform a 10-s all-out sprint (sprint trial) or to rest (control trial) immediately before cycling at 40% of peak rate of oxygen consumption for 20 min, with both trials conducted in a random counterbalanced order. Sprinting did not affect the rapid fall in glycaemia during the subsequent bout of moderate-intensity exercise (2.9 +/- 0.4 mmol/l in 20 min; p = 0.00; mean+/-SE). However, during the following 45 min of recovery, glycaemia in the control trial decreased by 1.23 +/- 0.60 mmol/l (p = 0.04) while remaining stable in the sprint trial, subsequently decreasing in this latter trial at a rate similar to that in the control trial. The large increase in noradrenaline (norepinephrine) (p = 0.005) and lactate levels (p = 0.0005) may have contributed to the early post-exercise stabilisation of glycaemia in the sprint trial. During recovery, adrenaline (epinephrine) and NEFA levels increased marginally in the sprint trial, but other counter-regulatory hormones did not change significantly (p < 0.05). A 10-s sprint performed immediately prior to moderate-intensity exercise prevents glycaemia from falling during early recovery from moderate-intensity exercise in individuals with type 1 diabetes.

A phosphatidylinositol species acutely generated by activated macrophages regulates innate immune responses.

PubMed

Gil-de-Gómez, Luis; Astudillo, Alma M; Meana, Clara; Rubio, Julio M; Guijas, Carlos; Balboa, María A; Balsinde, Jesús

2013-05-15

Activation of macrophages with stimuli of the innate immune response results in the intense remodeling of arachidonate-containing phospholipids, leading to the mobilization of large quantities of this fatty acid for conversion into biologically active eicosanoids. As a consequence of this process, the arachidonate levels in membrane phospholipids markedly decrease. We have applied mass spectrometry-based lipid profiling to study the levels of arachidonate-containing phospholipids under inflammatory activation of macrophages. We identify an unusual inositol phospholipid molecule, PI(20:4/20:4), the levels of which do not decrease but actually increase by 300% after activation of the macrophages. PI(20:4/20:4) is formed and degraded rapidly, suggesting a role for this molecule in regulating cell signaling events. Using a metabolipidomic approach consisting in exposing the cells to deuterium-labeled arachidonate at the time they are exposed to stimuli, we show that PI(20:4/20:4) biosynthesis occurs via the sequential incorporation of arachidonate, first into the sn-2 position of a preformed phosphatidylinositol (PI) molecule, followed by the rapid introduction of a second arachidonate moiety into the sn-1 position. Generation requires the participation of cytosolic phospholipase A2α and CoA-dependent acyltransferases. PI(20:4/20:4) formation is also detected in vivo in murine peritonitis exudates. Elevating the intracellular concentration of PI(20:4/20:4) by introducing the lipid into the cells results in enhancement of the microbicidal capacity of macrophages, as measured by reactive oxygen metabolite production and lysozyme release. These findings suggest that PI(20:4/20:4) is a novel bioactive inositol phospholipid molecule that regulates innate immune responses in macrophages.

Catheter-Based Renal Sympathetic Denervation Significantly Inhibits Atrial Fibrillation Induced by Electrical Stimulation of the Left Stellate Ganglion and Rapid Atrial Pacing

PubMed Central

Po, Sunny S.; Wang, Huan; Zhang, Ling; Zhang, Feng; Wang, Kun; Zhou, Qina

2013-01-01

Background Sympathetic activity involves the pathogenesis of atrial fibrillation (AF). Renal sympathetic denervation (RSD) decreases sympathetic renal afferent nerve activity, leading to decreased central sympathetic drive. The aim of this study was to identify the effects of RSD on AF inducibility induced by hyper-sympathetic activity in a canine model. Methods To establish a hyper-sympathetic tone canine model of AF, sixteen dogs were subjected to stimulation of left stellate ganglion (LSG) and rapid atrial pacing (RAP) for 3 hours. Then animals in the RSD group (n = 8) underwent radiofrequency ablation of the renal sympathetic nerve. The control group (n = 8) underwent the same procedure except for ablation. AF inducibility, effective refractory period (ERP), ERP dispersion, heart rate variability and plasma norepinephrine levels were measured at baseline, after stimulation and after ablation. Results LSG stimulation combined RAP significantly induced higher AF induction rate, shorter ERP, larger ERP dispersion at all sites examined and higher plasma norepinephrine levels (P<0.05 in all values), compared to baseline. The increased AF induction rate, shortened ERP, increased ERP dispersion and elevated plasma norepinephrine levels can be almost reversed by RSD, compared to the control group (P<0.05). LSG stimulation combined RAP markedly shortened RR-interval and standard deviation of all RR-intervals (SDNN), Low-frequency (LF), high-frequency (HF) and LF/HF ratio (P<0.05). These changes can be reversed by RSD, compared to the control group (P<0.05). Conclusions RSD significantly reduced AF inducibility and reversed the atrial electrophysiological changes induced by hyper-sympathetic activity. PMID:24223140

The effect of grinding at various vacuum levels on the color, phenolics, and antioxidant properties of apple.

PubMed

Kim, Ah-Na; Kim, Hyun-Jin; Kerr, William L; Choi, Sung-Gil

2017-02-01

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of grinding at different vacuum levels (2.67, 6.67, 13.33, 19.99, and 101.33kPa) on key quality factors of apple. In the control apple, ground at atmospheric pressure of 101.33kPa, the antioxidant activities rapidly decreased within the first 30min, then plateaued thereafter, while enzymatic browning increased. When apples were ground and held under vacuum, changes in color and antioxidant activity were much less, and the least change was measured in samples prepared at the lowest pressure. Model fitting of the data showed that antioxidant activity decreased as a function of the logarithm of the absolute pressure. The results from analysis for key phenolic compounds including chlorogenic acid, procyanidin B2, and epicatechin indicated that these compounds were least changed at vacuum grinding at 2.67kPa, compared to atmospheric grinding. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Murine pharmacokinetics and antitumor efficacy of the photodynamic sensitizer 2-[1-hexyloxyethyl]-2-devinyl pyropheophorbide-a.

PubMed

Bellnier, D A; Henderson, B W; Pandey, R K; Potter, W R; Dougherty, T J

1993-09-01

The combination of the new photodynamic sensitizer 2-[1-hexyloxyethyl]-2-devinyl pyropheophorbide-a (HPPH) and laser light of wavelength 665 nm showed antitumor activity against two s.c.-implanted murine tumors. HPPH also sensitized normal mouse foot tissue to light but photosensitivity decreased rapidly with time after HPPH administration. Mechanistic studies revealed that HPPH induced little direct tumor cell toxicity but was an effective mediator of vascular photodamage. Pharmacokinetic studies following intravenous injection of 1 mg [14C]HPPH per kilogram revealed a biexponential decay with time, with plasma alpha and beta half-lives of 0.69 and 21 h respectively. Fecal excretion was the primary route of elimination. The highest levels of [14C]HPPH were found in the liver, which also showed the greatest long-term retention. The sequence of decreasing uptake levels was the liver, adrenals, lung, spleen, kidney, urinary bladder, heart, eye, skin, pancreas, muscle, testes, fat and brain. This distribution correlated with the relative blood perfusion rates in the tissues.

Urinary Urea, Uric Acid and Hippuric Acid as Potential Biomarkers in Multiple Sclerosis Patients.

PubMed

Atya, Hanaa B; Ali, Sahar A; Hegazy, Mohamed I; El Sharkawi, Fathia Z

2018-04-01

Urine is a proven source of metabolite biomarkers and has the potential to be a rapid, noninvasive, inexpensive, and efficient diagnostic tool for various human diseases. Despite these advantages, urine is an under-investigated source of biomarkers for multiple sclerosis (MS). The objective was to investigate the level of some urinary metabolites (urea, uric acid and hippuric acid) in patients with MS and correlate their levels to the severity of the disease, MS subtypes and MS treatment. The urine samples were collected from 73 MS patients-48 with RRMS and 25 with SPMS- and age matched 75 healthy controls. The values of urinary urea, uric acid and hippuric acid in MS patients were significantly decreased, and these metabolites in SPMS pattern showed significantly decrease than RRMS pattern. Also showed significant inverse correlation with expanded disability status scale and number of relapses. Accordingly, they may act as a potential urinary biomarkers for MS, and correlate to disease progression.

Monitoring changes in seismic velocity related to an ongoing rapid inflation event at Okmok volcano, Alaska

USGS Publications Warehouse

Bennington, Ninfa; Haney, Matt; De Angelis, Silvio; Thurber, Clifford; Freymueller, Jeff

2015-01-01

Okmok is one of the most active volcanoes in the Aleutian Arc. In an effort to improve our ability to detect precursory activity leading to eruption at Okmok, we monitor a recent, and possibly ongoing, GPS-inferred rapid inflation event at the volcano using ambient noise interferometry (ANI). Applying this method, we identify changes in seismic velocity outside of Okmok’s caldera, which are related to the hydrologic cycle. Within the caldera, we observe decreases in seismic velocity that are associated with the GPS-inferred rapid inflation event. We also determine temporal changes in waveform decorrelation and show a continual increase in decorrelation rate over the time associated with the rapid inflation event. Themagnitude of relative velocity decreases and decorrelation rate increases are comparable to previous studies at Piton de la Fournaise that associate such changes with increased production of volatiles and/ormagmatic intrusion within the magma reservoir and associated opening of fractures and/or fissures. Notably, the largest decrease in relative velocity occurs along the intrastation path passing nearest to the center of the caldera. This observation, along with equal amplitude relative velocity decreases revealed via analysis of intracaldera autocorrelations, suggests that the inflation sourcemay be located approximately within the center of the caldera and represent recharge of shallow magma storage in this location. Importantly, there is a relative absence of seismicity associated with this and previous rapid inflation events at Okmok. Thus, these ANI results are the first seismic evidence of such rapid inflation at the volcano.

Factors which influence the development of a low-level jet and coastal cyclogenesis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Uccellini, Louis W.; Petersen, Ralph A.; Kocin, Paul J.; Brill, Keith F.; Tuccillo, James J.

1986-01-01

Mesoscale model simulations were run to examine the mechanisms which generate a low-level jet (LLJ) and the sea-level pressure decrease (SLPD) associated with secondary cyclogenesis along the East Coast of the U.S. Data collected during the Presidents' Day cyclone of February 18-19, 1979 are reviewed, including the behavior of the LLJ preceding cyclogenesis. The simulations covered adiabatic conditions, the absence and presence of latent heating, and the inclusion of all physical parameters with and without computations of boundary layer phenomena, 60-km grid-scale precipitation, and convective precipitation. The results indicate that synergistic reactions among the LLJ, latent heat release, jet-induced circulation, and boundary layer processes are necessary to account for secondary cyclogenesis and the accompanying rapidly evolving mass, momentum and moisture fields.

Rapid Improvement of thyroid storm-related hemodynamic collapse by aggressive anti-thyroid therapy including steroid pulse: A case report.

PubMed

Kiriyama, Hiroyuki; Amiya, Eisuke; Hatano, Masaru; Hosoya, Yumiko; Maki, Hisataka; Nitta, Daisuke; Saito, Akihito; Shiraishi, Yasuyuki; Minatsuki, Shun; Sato, Tatsuyuki; Murakami, Haruka; Uehara, Masae; Manaka, Katsunori; Makita, Noriko; Watanabe, Masafumi; Komuro, Issei

2017-06-01

Heart failure is relatively common in patients with hyperthyroidism, but thyrotoxic cardiomyopathy with poor left ventricular (LV) systolic function is very rare. We experienced a representative case of a patient who presented with severe LV dysfunction related to thyroid storm and needed extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) temporally. Thyrotoxic cardiomyopathy. Aggressive antithyroid therapy, including steroid pulse to hyperthyroidism, leads to the dramatic improvement of cardiac function and she was successfully weaned from ECMO. The most outstanding feature of the current case was the rapid decrease of cardiac injury and improvement of cardiac function by strengthening antithyroid therapy, including steroid pulse, without thyroid hormone level normalization. In thyroid storm, various systemic inflammatory reactions have different time courses and among them, the cardiac phenotype emerges in most striking and critical ways.

Oxygen, pH, and Eh microprofiles around submerged macrophyte Vallisneria natans response to growing stages

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dong, B.; Wang, G. X.; Yu, H. G.

2017-08-01

The periphyton, attached to the surfaces of submerged plants, has important effects on plant growth and development in eutrophic waters. Periphyton complicates the microenvironment of diffusive boundary layer around submerged plants. We researched periphyton characteristics, oxygen (O2), pH, and Eh microprofiles at various growing stages of Vallisneria natans. The results suggested that during the growing period of V. natans, O2 concentration and pH decreased from 0 to 2 mm above the leaf surface, whereas the Eh increased. As V. natans grew, O2 and pH gradually increased until they peaked during stable growing stages, while the Eh decreased. However, during the decline stage, O2 and pH gradually decreased, and Eh increased. To summarise, O2 and pH showed a unimodal pattern in response to the life cycle of V. natans, with the maximum levels during the stable growth stage and the minimum levels during the rapid growth and decline stages. Our study demonstrated that V. natans growth induced steep gradients in O2 concentrations, pH, and Eh at the DBL by increasing the layer’s thickness, macrophyte photosynthetic capacity, and periphyton biomass in eutrophic waters.

Hypothyroidism and its rapid correction alter cardiac remodeling.

PubMed

Hajje, Georges; Saliba, Youakim; Itani, Tarek; Moubarak, Majed; Aftimos, Georges; Farès, Nassim

2014-01-01

The cardiovascular effects of mild and overt thyroid disease include a vast array of pathological changes. As well, thyroid replacement therapy has been suggested for preserving cardiac function. However, the influence of thyroid hormones on cardiac remodeling has not been thoroughly investigated at the molecular and cellular levels. The purpose of this paper is to study the effect of hypothyroidism and thyroid replacement therapy on cardiac alterations. Thirty Wistar rats were divided into 2 groups: a control (n = 10) group and a group treated with 6-propyl-2-thiouracil (PTU) (n = 20) to induce hypothyroidism. Ten of the 20 rats in the PTU group were then treated with L-thyroxine to quickly re-establish euthyroidism. The serum levels of inflammatory markers, such as C-reactive protein (CRP), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin 6 (IL6) and pro-fibrotic transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1), were significantly increased in hypothyroid rats; elevations in cardiac stress markers, brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) and cardiac troponin T (cTnT) were also noted. The expressions of cardiac remodeling genes were induced in hypothyroid rats in parallel with the development of fibrosis, and a decline in cardiac function with chamber dilation was measured by echocardiography. Rapidly reversing the hypothyroidism and restoring the euthyroid state improved cardiac function with a decrease in the levels of cardiac remodeling markers. However, this change further increased the levels of inflammatory and fibrotic markers in the plasma and heart and led to myocardial cellular infiltration. In conclusion, we showed that hypothyroidism is related to cardiac function decline, fibrosis and inflammation; most importantly, the rapid correction of hypothyroidism led to cardiac injuries. Our results might offer new insights for the management of hypothyroidism-induced heart disease.

Hypothyroidism and Its Rapid Correction Alter Cardiac Remodeling

PubMed Central

Itani, Tarek; Moubarak, Majed; Aftimos, Georges; Farès, Nassim

2014-01-01

The cardiovascular effects of mild and overt thyroid disease include a vast array of pathological changes. As well, thyroid replacement therapy has been suggested for preserving cardiac function. However, the influence of thyroid hormones on cardiac remodeling has not been thoroughly investigated at the molecular and cellular levels. The purpose of this paper is to study the effect of hypothyroidism and thyroid replacement therapy on cardiac alterations. Thirty Wistar rats were divided into 2 groups: a control (n = 10) group and a group treated with 6-propyl-2-thiouracil (PTU) (n = 20) to induce hypothyroidism. Ten of the 20 rats in the PTU group were then treated with L-thyroxine to quickly re-establish euthyroidism. The serum levels of inflammatory markers, such as C-reactive protein (CRP), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin 6 (IL6) and pro-fibrotic transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1), were significantly increased in hypothyroid rats; elevations in cardiac stress markers, brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) and cardiac troponin T (cTnT) were also noted. The expressions of cardiac remodeling genes were induced in hypothyroid rats in parallel with the development of fibrosis, and a decline in cardiac function with chamber dilation was measured by echocardiography. Rapidly reversing the hypothyroidism and restoring the euthyroid state improved cardiac function with a decrease in the levels of cardiac remodeling markers. However, this change further increased the levels of inflammatory and fibrotic markers in the plasma and heart and led to myocardial cellular infiltration. In conclusion, we showed that hypothyroidism is related to cardiac function decline, fibrosis and inflammation; most importantly, the rapid correction of hypothyroidism led to cardiac injuries. Our results might offer new insights for the management of hypothyroidism-induced heart disease. PMID:25333636

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

Xu Junji; Yan Xing; Gao Runtao

Purpose: To evaluate the effect of irradiation on microvascular endothelial cells in miniature pig parotid glands. Methods and Materials: A single 25-Gy dose of irradiation (IR) was delivered to parotid glands of 6 miniature pigs. Three other animals served as non-IR controls. Local blood flow rate in glands was measured pre- and post-IR with an ultrasonic Doppler analyzer. Samples of parotid gland tissue were taken at 4 h, 24 h, 1 week, and 2 weeks after IR for microvascular density (MVD) analysis and sphingomyelinase (SMase) assay. Histopathology and immunohistochemical staining (anti-CD31 and anti-AQP1) were used to assess morphological changes. MVDmore » was determined by calculating the number of CD31- or AQP1-stained cells per field. A terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) apoptosis assay was used to detect apoptotic cells. The activity of acid and neutral Mg{sup 2+}-dependent SMase (ASMase and NSMase, respectively) was also assayed. Results: Local parotid gland blood flow rate decreased rapidly at 4 h post-IR and remained below control levels throughout the 14-day observation period. Parotid MVD also declined from 4 to 24 hours and remained below control levels thereafter. The activity levels of ASMase and NSMase in parotid glands increased rapidly from 4 to 24 h post-IR and then declined gradually. The frequency of detecting apoptotic nuclei in the glands followed similar kinetics. Conclusions: Single-dose IR led to a significant reduction of MVD and local blood flow rate, indicating marked damage to microvascular endothelial cells in miniature pig parotid glands. The significant and rapid increases of ASMase and NSMase activity levels may be important in this IR-induced damage.« less

ELECTRON PARAMAGNETIC RESONANCE AND BAKING STUDIES ON GAMMA-IRRADIATED FLOUR

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

Lee, C.C.

1962-03-01

The irradiation of flour (from Western Canadian hard red spring wheat) at its usual moisture level of 12 to 14% with up to 10/sup 6/ rads of Co/sup 60/ gamma rays gave no observable electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectrum. However, after reduction of the moisture contert to 8 or 4%, irradiation resulted in EPR absorption indicating presence of radioinduced free radicals, which were destroyed rapidly in the presence of water vapor. With the irradiated flour kept in a sealed tube, the EPR spectrum faded with time. The fading was quite rapid for the first few days and then proceeded moremore » slowly. Irradiation resulted in a moderate increase in baked bread loaf volume at fairly low radiation dosages, followed by a gradual decrease in loaf volume at higher dosages (0.25 Mrad). Also, loaf volume tended to decrease as the elapsed time between irradiation and baking increased. This finding, when considered with the fading of the EPR spectrum, indicated that the EPR-detectable free radicals in the irradiated flour did not cause a strengthenlng of the gluten to produce an increase in loaf volume, as the radicals disappeared on becoming stable compounds. (H.H.D.)« less

Deficiency of MIP phosphatase induces a muscle disorder by disrupting Ca2+ homeostasis

PubMed Central

Shen, Jinhua; Yu, Wen-Mei; Brotto, Marco; Scherman, Joseph A.; Guo, Caiying; Stoddard, Christopher; Nosek, Thomas M.; Valdivia, Héctor H.; Qu, Cheng-Kui

2009-01-01

The intracellular Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i) level of skeletal muscles must be rapidly regulated during the excitation-contraction-relaxation process 1. However, the signaling components involved in such rapid Ca2+ movement are not fully understood. Here, we report that mice deficient in the novel phosphatidylinositol phosphate (PIP) phosphatase MIP displayed muscle weakness and fatigue. Muscles isolated from MIP−/− mice produced less contractile force, markedly prolonged relaxation, and exhibited exacerbated fatigue. Further analyses revealed that MIP deficiency resulted in spontaneous Ca2+ leak from the internal store — the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR). This was attributed to the decreased metabolism/dephosphorylation and the subsequent accumulation of MIP substrates, especially PI(3,5)P2 and PI(3,4)P2. Furthermore, we found that PI(3,5)P2 and PI(3,4)P2 bound to and directly activated the Ca2+ release channel/ryanodine receptor (RyR1) of the SR. These studies provide the first evidence that finely controlled PIP levels in muscle cells are essential for maintaining Ca2+ homeostasis and muscle performance. PMID:19465920

Implications for organic maturation studies of evidence of a geologically rapid increase and stabilization of vitrinite reflectance at peak temperature: Cerro Prieto geothermal system, Mexico

USGS Publications Warehouse

Barker, C.E.

1991-01-01

A short-term rapid heating and cooling of the rock in well M-94 below 1300 m was caused by a pulse of hot water passing through the edge of the Cerro Prieto, Mexico, geothermal system. Below 1300 m, the peak paleotemperatures were about 225-250??C, but equilibrium well log temperatures indicate a decrease to 150-210??C at present. This hot water pulse sharply increased vitrinite reflectance to levels comparable to those measured in the central part of the system, even though studies of apatite fission-track annealing indicate that the duration of heating was only 100-101 yr in M-94, in contrast to 103-104 yr in the central part of the system. The quick change of the vitrinite reflectance geothermometer indicates that thermal maturation reactions can stabilize, after a geologically short period of heating, to a level consistent with peak temperature under moderate to high-temperature diagenesis in open, fluid-rich, geothermal systems. -from Author

Rapid and sensitive ultrasonic-assisted derivatisation microextraction (UDME) technique for bitter taste-free amino acids (FAA) study by HPLC-FLD.

PubMed

Chen, Guang; Li, Jun; Sun, Zhiwei; Zhang, Shijuan; Li, Guoliang; Song, Cuihua; Suo, Yourui; You, Jinmao

2014-01-15

Amino acids, as the main contributors to taste, are usually found in relatively high levels in bitter foods. In this work, we focused on seeking a rapid, sensitive and simple method to determine FAA for large batches of micro-samples and to explore the relationship between FAA and bitterness. Overall condition optimisation indicated that the new UDME technique offered higher derivatisation yields and extraction efficiencies than traditional methods. Only 35min was needed in the whole operation process. Very low LLOQ (Lower limit of quantification: 0.21-5.43nmol/L) for FAA in twelve bitter foods was obtained, with which BTT (bitter taste thresholds) and CABT (content of FAA at BTT level) were newly determined. The ratio of CABT to BTT increased with decreasing of BTT. This work provided powerful potential for the high-throughput trace analysis of micro-sample and also a methodology to study the relationship between the chemical constituents and the taste. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Tripeptidyl Peptidase II Mediates Levels of Nuclear Phosphorylated ERK1 and ERK2.

PubMed

Wiemhoefer, Anne; Stargardt, Anita; van der Linden, Wouter A; Renner, Maria C; van Kesteren, Ronald E; Stap, Jan; Raspe, Marcel A; Tomkinson, Birgitta; Kessels, Helmut W; Ovaa, Huib; Overkleeft, Herman S; Florea, Bogdan; Reits, Eric A

2015-08-01

Tripeptidyl peptidase II (TPP2) is a serine peptidase involved in various biological processes, including antigen processing, cell growth, DNA repair, and neuropeptide mediated signaling. The underlying mechanisms of how a peptidase can influence this multitude of processes still remain unknown. We identified rapid proteomic changes in neuroblastoma cells following selective TPP2 inhibition using the known reversible inhibitor butabindide, as well as a new, more potent, and irreversible peptide phosphonate inhibitor. Our data show that TPP2 inhibition indirectly but rapidly decreases the levels of active, di-phosphorylated extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1 (ERK1) and ERK2 in the nucleus, thereby down-regulating signal transduction downstream of growth factors and mitogenic stimuli. We conclude that TPP2 mediates many important cellular functions by controlling ERK1 and ERK2 phosphorylation. For instance, we show that TPP2 inhibition of neurons in the hippocampus leads to an excessive strengthening of synapses, indicating that TPP2 activity is crucial for normal brain function. © 2015 by The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.

Mechanistic Challenges and Advantages of Biosensor Miniaturization into the Nanoscale.

PubMed

Soleymani, Leyla; Li, Feng

2017-04-28

Over the past few decades, there has been tremendous interest in developing biosensing systems that combine high sensitivity and specificity with rapid sample-to-answer times, portability, low-cost operation, and ease-of-use. Miniaturizing the biosensor dimensions into the nanoscale has been identified as a strategy for addressing the functional requirements of point-of-care and wearable biosensors. However, it is important to consider that decreasing the critical dimensions of biosensing elements impacts the two most important performance metrics of biosensors: limit-of-detection and response time. Miniaturization into the nanoscale enhances signal-to-noise-ratio by increasing the signal density (signal/geometric surface area) and reducing background signals. However, there is a trade-off between the enhanced signal transduction efficiency and the longer time it takes to collect target analytes on sensor surfaces due to the increase in mass transport times. By carefully considering the signal transduction mechanisms and reaction-transport kinetics governing different classes of biosensors, it is possible to develop structure-level and device-level strategies for leveraging miniaturization toward creating biosensors that combine low limit-of-detection with rapid response times.

Pharmacodynamics of mutant-IDH1 inhibitors in glioma patients probed by in vivo 3D MRS imaging of 2-hydroxyglutarate.

PubMed

Andronesi, Ovidiu C; Arrillaga-Romany, Isabel C; Ly, K Ina; Bogner, Wolfgang; Ratai, Eva M; Reitz, Kara; Iafrate, A John; Dietrich, Jorg; Gerstner, Elizabeth R; Chi, Andrew S; Rosen, Bruce R; Wen, Patrick Y; Cahill, Daniel P; Batchelor, Tracy T

2018-04-16

Inhibitors of the mutant isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 (IDH1) entered recently in clinical trials for glioma treatment. Mutant IDH1 produces high levels of 2-hydroxyglurate (2HG), thought to initiate oncogenesis through epigenetic modifications of gene expression. In this study, we show the initial evidence of the pharmacodynamics of a new mutant IDH1 inhibitor in glioma patients, using non-invasive 3D MR spectroscopic imaging of 2HG. Our results from a Phase 1 clinical trial indicate a rapid decrease of 2HG levels by 70% (CI 13%, P = 0.019) after 1 week of treatment. Importantly, inhibition of mutant IDH1 may lead to the reprogramming of tumor metabolism, suggested by simultaneous changes in glutathione, glutamine, glutamate, and lactate. An inverse correlation between metabolic changes and diffusion MRI indicates an effect on the tumor-cell density. We demonstrate a feasible radiopharmacodynamics approach to support the rapid clinical translation of rationally designed drugs targeting IDH1/2 mutations for personalized and precision medicine of glioma patients.

[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.

The response difference of mitochondria in recalcitrant Antiaris toxicaria axes and orthodox Zea mays embryos to dehydration injury.

PubMed

Song, Song-Quan; Tian, Mei-Hua; Kan, Jing; Cheng, Hong-Yan

2009-07-01

Long-term preservation of recalcitrant seeds is very difficult because the physiological basis on their desiccation sensitivity is poorly understood. Survival of Antiaris toxicaria axes rapidly decreased and that of immature maize embryos very slowly decreased with dehydration. To understand their different responses to dehydration, we examined the changes in mitochondria activity during dehydration. Although activities of cytochrome (Cyt) c oxidase and malate dehydrogenase of the A. toxicaria axis and maize embryo mitochondria decreased with dehydration, the parameters of maize embryo mitochondria were much higher than those of A. toxicaria, showing that the damage was more severe for the A. toxicaria axis mitochondria than for those of maize embryo. The state I and III respiration of the A. toxicaria axis mitochondria were higher than those of maize embryo, the former rapidly decreased, and the latter slowly decreased with dehydration. The proportion of Cyt c pathway to state III respiration for the A. toxicaria axis mitochondria was low and rapidly decreased with dehydration, and the proportion of alternative oxidase pathway was high and slightly increased with dehydration. In contrast, the proportion of Cyt c pathway for maize embryo mitochondria was high, and that of alternative oxidase pathway was low. Both pathways decreased slowly with dehydration.

Effect of Nitrite and Nitrate on Toxin Production by Clostridium botulinum and on Nitrosamine Formation in Perishable Canned Comminuted Cured Meat

PubMed Central

Christiansen, L. N.; Johnston, R. W.; Kautter, D. A.; Howard, J. W.; Aunan, W. J.

1973-01-01

Comminuted ham was formulated with different levels of sodium nitrite and nitrate, inoculated with Clostridium botulinum, and pasteurized to an internal temperature of 68.5 C. When added to the meat, nitrite concentrations decreased, and cooking had little effect on them. Nitrite concentrations decreased more rapidly during storage at 27 than at 7 C; however they remained rather constant at formulated levels throughout the experiment at both incubation temperatures. The level of nitrite added to the meat greatly influenced growth and toxin production of C. botulinum. The concentration of nitrite necessary to effect complete inhibition was dependent on the inoculum level. With 90 C. botulinum spores/g of meat, botulinum toxin developed in samples formulated with 150 but not with 200 μg of nitrite per g of meat. At a spore level of 5,000/g, toxin was detected in samples with 400 but not with 500 μg of nitrite per g of the product incubated at 27 C. At lower concentrations of nitrite, growth was retarded at both spore levels. No toxin developed in samples incubated at 7 C. Nitrate showed a statistically significant inhibitory effect at a given nitrite level; however, the effect was insufficient to be of practical value. Analyses for 14 volatile nitrosamines from samples made with varying levels of nitrite and nitrate were negative at a detection level of 0.01 μg of nitrite or nitrate per g of meat. PMID:4572891

Renal Cortical Pyruvate Depletion during AKI

PubMed Central

Johnson, Ali C.M.; Becker, Kirsten

2014-01-01

Pyruvate is a key intermediary in energy metabolism and can exert antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. However, the fate of pyruvate during AKI remains unknown. Here, we assessed renal cortical pyruvate and its major determinants (glycolysis, gluconeogenesis, pyruvate dehydrogenase [PDH], and H2O2 levels) in mice subjected to unilateral ischemia (15–60 minutes; 0–18 hours of vascular reflow) or glycerol-induced ARF. The fate of postischemic lactate, which can be converted back to pyruvate by lactate dehydrogenase, was also addressed. Ischemia and glycerol each induced persistent pyruvate depletion. During ischemia, decreasing pyruvate levels correlated with increasing lactate levels. During early reperfusion, pyruvate levels remained depressed, but lactate levels fell below control levels, likely as a result of rapid renal lactate efflux. During late reperfusion and glycerol-induced AKI, pyruvate depletion corresponded with increased gluconeogenesis (pyruvate consumption). This finding was underscored by observations that pyruvate injection increased renal cortical glucose content in AKI but not normal kidneys. AKI decreased PDH levels, potentially limiting pyruvate to acetyl CoA conversion. Notably, pyruvate therapy mitigated the severity of AKI. This renoprotection corresponded with increases in cytoprotective heme oxygenase 1 and IL-10 mRNAs, selective reductions in proinflammatory mRNAs (e.g., MCP-1 and TNF-α), and improved tissue ATP levels. Paradoxically, pyruvate increased cortical H2O2 levels. We conclude that AKI induces a profound and persistent depletion of renal cortical pyruvate, which may induce additional injury. PMID:24385590

Interpretation of changes in water level accompanying fault creep and implications for earthquake prediction.

USGS Publications Warehouse

Wesson, R.L.

1981-01-01

Quantitative calculations for the effect of a fault creep event on observations of changes in water level in wells provide an approach to the tectonic interpretation of these phenomena. For the pore pressure field associated with an idealized creep event having an exponential displacement versus time curve, an analytic expression has been obtained in terms of exponential-integral functions. The pore pressure versus time curves for observation points near the fault are pulselike; a sharp pressure increase (or decrease, depending on the direction of propagation) is followed by more gradual decay to the normal level after the creep event. The time function of the water level change may be obtained by applying the filter - derived by A.G.Johnson and others to determine the influence of atmospheric pressure on water level - to the analytic pore pressure versus time curves. The resulting water level curves show a fairly rapid increase (or decrease) and then a very gradual return to normal. The results of this analytic model do not reproduce the steplike changes in water level observed by Johnson and others. If the procedure used to obtain the water level from the pore pressure is correct, these results suggest that steplike changes in water level are not produced by smoothly propagating creep events but by creep events that propagate discontinuously, by changes in the bulk properties of the region around the well, or by some other mechanism.-Author

Monitoring duration and extent of storm-surge and flooding in Western Coastal Louisiana marshes with Envisat ASAR data

USGS Publications Warehouse

Ramsey, E.; Lu, Z.; Suzuoki, Y.; Rangoonwala, A.; Werle, D.

2011-01-01

Inundation maps of coastal marshes in western Louisiana were created with multitemporal Envisat Advanced Synthetic Aperture (ASAR) scenes collected before and during the three months after Hurricane Rita landfall in September 2005. Corroborated by inland water-levels, 7 days after landfall, 48% of coastal estuarine and palustrine marshes remained inundated by storm-surge waters. Forty-five days after landfall, storm-surge inundated 20% of those marshes. The end of the storm-surge flooding was marked by an abrupt decrease in water levels following the passage of a storm front and persistent offshore winds. A complementary dramatic decrease in flood extent was confirmed by an ASAR-derived inundation map. In nonimpounded marshes at elevations <;80 cm, storm-surge waters rapidly receded while slower recession was dominantly associated with impounded marshes at elevations >;80 cm during the first month after Rita landfall. After this initial period, drainage from marshes-especially impounded marshes-was hastened by the onset of offshore winds. Following the abrupt drops in inland water levels and flood extent, rainfall events coinciding with increased water levels were recorded as inundation re-expansion. This postsurge flooding decreased until only isolated impounded and palustrine marshes remained inundated. Changing flood extents were correlated to inland water levels and largely occurred within the same marsh regions. Trends related to incremental threshold increases used in the ASAR change-detection analyses seemed related to the preceding hydraulic and hydrologic events, and VV and HH threshold differences supported their relationship to the overall wetland hydraulic condition.

Characterization of Wet-Heat Inactivation of Single Spores of Bacillus Species by Dual-Trap Raman Spectroscopy and Elastic Light Scattering▿

PubMed Central

Zhang, Pengfei; Kong, Lingbo; Setlow, Peter; Li, Yong-qing

2010-01-01

Dual-trap laser tweezers Raman spectroscopy (LTRS) and elastic light scattering (ELS) were used to investigate dynamic processes during high-temperature treatment of individual spores of Bacillus cereus, Bacillus megaterium, and Bacillus subtilis in water. Major conclusions from these studies included the following. (i) After spores of all three species were added to water at 80 to 90°C, the level of the 1:1 complex of Ca2+ and dipicolinic acid (CaDPA; ∼25% of the dry weight of the spore core) in individual spores remained relatively constant during a highly variable lag time (Tlag), and then CaDPA was released within 1 to 2 min. (ii) The Tlag values prior to rapid CaDPA release and thus the times for wet-heat killing of individual spores of all three species were very heterogeneous. (iii) The heterogeneity in kinetics of wet-heat killing of individual spores was not due to differences in the microscopic physical environments during heat treatment. (iv) During the wet-heat treatment of spores of all three species, spore protein denaturation largely but not completely accompanied rapid CaDPA release, as some changes in protein structure preceded rapid CaDPA release. (v) Changes in the ELS from individual spores of all three species were strongly correlated with the release of CaDPA. The ELS intensities of B. cereus and B. megaterium spores decreased gradually and reached minima at T1 when ∼80% of spore CaDPA was released, then increased rapidly until T2 when full CaDPA release was complete, and then remained nearly constant. The ELS intensity of B. subtilis spores showed similar features, although the intensity changed minimally, if at all, prior to T1. (vi) Carotenoids in B. megaterium spores' inner membranes exhibited two changes during heat treatment. First, the carotenoid's two Raman bands at 1,155 and 1,516 cm−1 decreased rapidly to a low value and to zero, respectively, well before Tlag, and then the residual 1,155-cm−1 band disappeared, in parallel with the rapid CaDPA release beginning at Tlag. PMID:20097820

E3 ligase CHIP and Hsc70 regulate Kv1.5 protein expression and function in mammalian cells.

PubMed

Li, Peili; Kurata, Yasutaka; Maharani, Nani; Mahati, Endang; Higaki, Katsumi; Hasegawa, Akira; Shirayoshi, Yasuaki; Yoshida, Akio; Kondo, Tatehito; Kurozawa, Youichi; Yamamoto, Kazuhiro; Ninomiya, Haruaki; Hisatome, Ichiro

2015-09-01

Kv1.5 confers ultra-rapid delayed-rectifier potassium channel current (IKur) which contributes to repolarization of the atrial action potential. Kv1.5 proteins, degraded via the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway, decreased in some atrial fibrillation patients. Carboxyl-terminus heat shock cognate 70-interacting protein (CHIP), an E3 ubiquitin ligase, is known to ubiquitinate short-lived proteins. Here, we investigated the roles of CHIP in Kv1.5 degradation to provide insights into the mechanisms of Kv1.5 decreases and treatments targeting Kv1.5 for atrial fibrillation. Coexpression of CHIP with Kv1.5 in HEK293 cells increased Kv1.5 protein ubiquitination and decreased the protein level. Immunofluorescence revealed decreases of Kv1.5 proteins in the endoplasmic reticulum and on the cell membrane. A siRNA against CHIP suppressed Kv1.5 protein ubiquitination and increased its protein level. CHIP mutants, lacking either the N-terminal tetratricopeptide region domain or the C-terminal U-box domain, failed to exert these effects on Kv1.5 proteins. Immunoprecipitation showed that CHIP formed complexes with Kv1.5 proteins and heat shock cognate protein 70 (Hsc70). Effects of Hsc70 on Kv1.5 were similar to CHIP by altering interaction of CHIP with Kv1.5 protein. Coexpression of CHIP and Hsc70 with Kv1.5 additionally enhanced Kv1.5 ubiquitination. Kv1.5 currents were decreased by overexpression of CHIP or Hsc70 but were increased by knockdown of CHIP or Hsc70 in HEK 293 cells stably expressing Kv1.5. These effects of CHIP and Hsc70 were also observed on endogenous Kv1.5 in HL-1 mouse cardiomyocytes, decreasing IKur and prolonging action potential duration. These results indicate that CHIP decreases the Kv1.5 protein level and functional channel by facilitating its degradation in concert with chaperone Hsc70. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Uptake and effects of 2, 4, 6 - trinitrotoluene (TNT) in juvenile Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar).

PubMed

Mariussen, Espen; Stornes, Siv Marie; Bøifot, Kari Oline; Rosseland, Bjørn Olav; Salbu, Brit; Heier, Lene Sørlie

2018-01-01

Organ specific uptake and depuration, and biological effects in Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) exposed to 2, 4, 6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) were studied. Two experiments were conducted, the first using radiolabeled TNT ( 14 C-TNT, 0.16mg/L) to study uptake (48h) and depuration (48h), while the second experiment focused on physiological effects in fish exposed to increasing concentrations of unlabeled TNT (1μg-1mg/L) for 48h. The uptake of 14 C-TNT in the gills and most of the organs increased rapidly during the first 6h of exposure (12h in the brain) followed by a rapid decrease even though the fish were still exposed to TNT in the water. The radioactivity in the gall bladder reached a maximum after 55h, 7h after the transfer to the clean water. A high concentration of 14 C-TNT in the gall bladder indicates that TNT is excreted through the gall bladder. Mortality (2 out of 14) was observed at a concentration of 1mg/L, and the surviving fish had hemorrhages in the dorsal muscle tissue near the spine. Analysis of the physiological parameters in blood from the high exposure group revealed severe effects, with an increase in the levels of glucose, urea and HCO 3 , and a decrease in hematocrit and the levels of Cl and hemoglobin. No effects on blood physiology were observed in fish exposed to the lower concentrations of TNT (1-100μg/L). TNT and the metabolites 2-amino-4,6-dinitrotoluene (2-ADNT) and 4-amino-2,6-dinitrotoluene (4-ADNT) were found in the muscle tissue, whereas only 2-ADNT and 4-ADNT were found in the bile. The rapid excretion and estimated bioconcentration factors (range of 2-18 after 48h in gills, blood, liver, kidney, muscle and brain) indicated a low potential for bioaccumulation of TNT. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Effects of urbanization on streamflow in the Atlanta area (Georgia, USA): A comparative hydrological approach

USGS Publications Warehouse

Rose, S.; Peters, N.E.

2001-01-01

For the period from 1958 to 1996, streamflow characteristics of a highly urbanized watershed were compared with less-urbanized and non-urbanized watersheds within a 20 000 km2 region in the vicinity of Atlanta, Georgia: In the Piedmont and Blue Ridge physiographic provinces of the southeastern USA. Water levels in several wells completed in surficial and crystalline-rock aquifers were also evaluated. Data were analysed for seven US Geological Survey (USGS) stream gauges, 17 National Weather Service rain gauges, and five USGS monitoring wells. Annual runoff coefficients (RCs; runoff as a fractional percentage of precipitation) for the urban stream (Peachtree Creek) were not significantly greater than for the less-urbanized watersheds. The RCs for some streams were similar to others and the similar streams were grouped according to location. The RCs decreased from the higher elevation and higher relief watersheds to the lower elevation and lower relief watersheds: Values were 0.54 for the two Blue Ridge streams. 0.37 for the four middle Piedmont streams (near Atlanta), and 0.28 for a southern Piedmont stream. For the 25 largest stormflows, the peak flows for Peachtree Creek were 30% to 100% greater then peak flows for the other stream. The storm recession period for the urban stream was 1-2 days less than that for the other streams and the recession was characterized by a 2-day storm recession constant that was, on average, 40 to 100% greater, i.e. streamflow decreased more rapidly than for the other streams. Baseflow recession constants ranged from 35 to 40% lower for Peachtree Creek than for the other streams; this is attributed to lower evapotranspiration losses, which result in a smaller change in groundwater storage than in the less-urbanized watersheds. Low flow of Peachtree Creek ranged from 25 to 35% less than the other streams, possibly the result of decreased infiltration caused by the more efficient routing of stormwater and the paving of groundwater rechange areas. The timing of daily or monthly groundwater-level fluctuations was similar annually in each well, reflecting the seasonal recharge. Although water-level monitoring only began in the 1980s for the two urban wells, water levels displayed a notable decline compared with non-urban wells since then; this is attributed to decreased groundwater rechange in the urban watersheds due to increased imperviousness and related rapid storm runoff. Copyright ?? 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Mechanism of the Synergistic Effect of Amiodarone and Fluconazole in Candida albicans▿ †

PubMed Central

Gamarra, Soledad; Rocha, Elousa Maria F.; Zhang, Yong-Qiang; Park, Steven; Rao, Rajini; Perlin, David S.

2010-01-01

The antiarrhythmic drug amiodarone has been found to have fungicidal activity. In Saccharomyces cerevisiae, its antifungal activity is mediated by calcium overload stress, which leads to a rapid nuclear accumulation of the calcineurin-regulated transcription factor CRZ1. In addition, low doses of amiodarone have been reported to be synergistic with fluconazole in fluconazole-resistant Candida albicans. To establish its mechanism of toxicity in C. albicans, we used expression profiling of key pathway genes to examine cellular responses to amiodarone alone and in combination with fluconazole. Gene expression profiling of 59 genes was done in five C. albicans strains (three fluconazole-susceptible strains and two fluconazole-resistant strains) after amiodarone and/or fluconazole exposure. Of the 59 genes, 27 analyzed showed a significant change (>2-fold) in expression levels after amiodarone exposure. The up- or downregulated genes included genes involved in Ca2+ homeostasis, cell wall synthesis, vacuolar/lysosomal transport, diverse pathway regulation, stress response, and pseudohyphal morphogenesis. As expected, fluconazole induces an increase in ergosterol pathway genes expression levels. The combination treatment significantly dampened the transcriptional response to either drug, suggesting that synergism was due to an inhibition of compensatory response pathways. This dampening resulted in a decrease in total ergosterol levels and decreased pseudohyphal formation, a finding consistent with decreased virulence in a murine candidiasis model. PMID:20194694

Differential effects of hydroxyurea and INC424 on mutant allele burden and myeloproliferative phenotype in a JAK2-V617F polycythemia vera mouse model.

PubMed

Kubovcakova, Lucia; Lundberg, Pontus; Grisouard, Jean; Hao-Shen, Hui; Romanet, Vincent; Andraos, Rita; Murakami, Masato; Dirnhofer, Stephan; Wagner, Kay-Uwe; Radimerski, Thomas; Skoda, Radek C

2013-02-14

To establish a preclinical animal model for testing drugs with potential effects on myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs), we first performed a detailed phenotypic characterization of Cre-inducible transgenic JAK2-V617F mice. Deleting the conditional mouse Jak2-knockout alleles increased erythropoiesis and accentuated the polycythemia vera phenotype, but did not alter platelet or granulocyte levels. In a transplantation assay, JAK2-V617F(+) BM cells had an advantage over wild-type competitor cells. Using this competitive repopulation assay, we compared the effects of INC424 (ruxolitinib), a dual Jak1/Jak2 inhibitor, and hydroxyurea (HU). HU led to weight loss, but did not reduce spleen weight. The hematologic parameters were lowered and a slight decrease of the mutant allele burden was noted. INC424 had little effect on body weight, but strongly decreased spleen size and rapidly normalized RBC and neutrophil parameters. No significant decrease in the mutant allele burden was observed. INC424 reduced the phospho-Stat5 levels, whereas HU strongly increased phospho-Stat5, most likely because of the elevated erythropoietin levels in response to the HU-induced anemia. This compensatory increase in JAK/STAT signaling may counteract the beneficial effects of cytoreduction at higher doses of HU and represents an adverse effect that should be avoided.

The effect of water stress on super-high- density 'Koroneiki' olive oil quality.

PubMed

Dag, Arnon; Naor, Amos; Ben-Gal, Alon; Harlev, Guy; Zipori, Isaac; Schneider, Doron; Birger, Reuven; Peres, Moti; Gal, Yoni; Kerem, Zohar

2015-08-15

Over the last two decades, the area of cultivated super-high-density olive orchards has increased rapidly. Water stress is an important tool in super-high-density orchards to reduce tree growth and promote suitability for overhead mechanical harvesters. Little is known regarding the effect of water stress in super-high-density orchards on oil quality parameters. In this study the effect of irrigation rate on oil quality parameters was evaluated in a six-year-old super-high-density 'Koreneiki' olive orchard for five consecutive seasons. Five water status levels, determined by irrigating in order to maintain various midday stem water potential threshold values (-1.5, -2, -2.5, -3 and -4 MPa), were applied during the oil accumulation stage. The MUFA/PUFA ratio and free fatty acid content generally decreased as a function of increasing tree water stress. In most seasons a reduction in polyphenols was found with decreasing irrigation level. Peroxide value was not affected by the water stress level. The present study demonstrates that limiting irrigation and exposure of olive trees to water stress in a super-high-density orchard lowers free fatty acid content and therefore benefits oil quality. However, the decreased MUFA/PUFA ratio and the reduction in polyphenol content that were also found under increased water stress negatively influence oil quality. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry.

Changes in receptor-mediated endocytosis in liver sinusoidal cells after partial hepatectomy in the rat.

PubMed

Kamimoto, Y; Tanabe, D; Tashiro, S; Hiraoka, T; Miyauchi, Y

1994-06-01

Liver sinusoidal cells play an important role in host defense by clearing particulate matter and macromolecules from the circulation. In this study, receptor-mediated endocytosis in sinusoidal cells was examined in two-thirds hepatectomized rats using 125I-labeled formaldehyde-treated bovine serum albumin (fBSA) as an endocytable macromolecule. The liver-weight to body-weight ratio in hepatectomized rats returned to the control value 10 days after hepatectomy. The endocytotic index for fBSA in sinusoidal cells decreased significantly to 0.0210 +/- 0.0017 (controls, 0.0598 +/- 0.0019) on the first day, then returned to the control level at 5 days (0.0554 +/- 0.0030). The changes in hepatic uptake for fBSA showed a similar time course of the endocytotic index. A transient increase in the uptake of fBSA per unit weight of liver of 22-39% above control occurred 2 to 3 days after hepatectomy. In contrast to fBSA, the endocytotic index in hepatocytes evaluated with 125I-labeled asialofetuin reached the minimum level on the second day, and then recovered to the control level 10 days after hepatectomy. These results suggest that endocytosis of fBSA by sinusoidal cells decreases after hepatectomy and rapidly recovers to normal before the completion of liver regeneration, whereas endocytosis of asialofetuin by hepatocytes decreases following hepatic resection and returns to normal when regeneration is substantially complete.

TLR-activated repression of Fe-S cluster biogenesis drives a metabolic shift and alters histone and tubulin acetylation.

PubMed

Tong, Wing-Hang; Maio, Nunziata; Zhang, De-Liang; Palmieri, Erika M; Ollivierre, Hayden; Ghosh, Manik C; McVicar, Daniel W; Rouault, Tracey A

2018-05-22

Given the essential roles of iron-sulfur (Fe-S) cofactors in mediating electron transfer in the mitochondrial respiratory chain and supporting heme biosynthesis, mitochondrial dysfunction is a common feature in a growing list of human Fe-S cluster biogenesis disorders, including Friedreich ataxia and GLRX5-related sideroblastic anemia. Here, our studies showed that restriction of Fe-S cluster biogenesis not only compromised mitochondrial oxidative metabolism but also resulted in decreased overall histone acetylation and increased H3K9me3 levels in the nucleus and increased acetylation of α-tubulin in the cytosol by decreasing the lipoylation of the pyruvate dehydrogenase complex, decreasing levels of succinate dehydrogenase and the histone acetyltransferase ELP3, and increasing levels of the tubulin acetyltransferase MEC17. Previous studies have shown that the metabolic shift in Toll-like receptor (TLR)-activated myeloid cells involves rapid activation of glycolysis and subsequent mitochondrial respiratory failure due to nitric oxide (NO)-mediated damage to Fe-S proteins. Our studies indicated that TLR activation also actively suppresses many components of the Fe-S cluster biogenesis machinery, which exacerbates NO-mediated damage to Fe-S proteins by interfering with cluster recovery. These results reveal new regulatory pathways and novel roles of the Fe-S cluster biogenesis machinery in modifying the epigenome and acetylome and provide new insights into the etiology of Fe-S cluster biogenesis disorders.

Ascorbate stimulates endothelial nitric oxide synthase enzyme activity by rapid modulation of its phosphorylation status

PubMed Central

Ladurner, Angela; Schmitt, Christoph A.; Schachner, Daniel; Atanasov, Atanas G.; Werner, Ernst R.; Dirsch, Verena M.; Heiss, Elke H.

2012-01-01

Long-term exposure to ascorbate is known to enhance endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) activity by stabilizing the eNOS cofactor tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4). We investigated acute effects of ascorbate on eNOS function in primary (HUVEC) and immortalized human endothelial cells (EA.hy926), aiming to provide a molecular explanation for the rapid vasodilatation seen in vivo upon administration of ascorbate. Enzymatic activity of eNOS and intracellular BH4 levels were assessed by means of an arginine–citrulline conversion assay and HPLC analysis, respectively. Over a period of 4 h, ascorbate steadily increased eNOS activity, although endothelial BH4 levels remained unchanged compared to untreated control cells. Immunoblot analyses revealed that as early as 5 min after treatment ascorbate dose-dependently increased phosphorylation at eNOS-Ser1177 and concomitantly decreased phosphorylation at eNOS-Thr495, a phosphorylation pattern indicative of increased eNOS activity. By employing pharmacological inhibitors, siRNA-mediated knockdown approaches, and overexpression of the catalytic subunit of protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A), we show that this effect was at least partly owing to reduction of PP2A activity and subsequent activation of AMP-activated kinase. In this report, we unravel a novel mechanism for how ascorbate rapidly activates eNOS independent of its effects on BH4 stabilization. PMID:22542797

Gastrointestinal transit in nonobese diabetic mouse: an animal model of human diabetes type 1.

PubMed

El-Salhy, M

2001-01-01

Gastrointestinal transit (GI) in the nonobese diabetic (NOD) mouse, an animal model of human diabetes type 1, was examined in animals with short- (duration 1-5 days) and long-term (duration 28-35 days) diabetes. Blood glucose level, serum insulin concentration, and gut neuroendocrine peptide content were also measured. GI was significantly rapid in NOD mice with long-term diabetes (LTD), but was not correlated with blood glucose level, serum insulin concentration, or pancreatic insulin content. GI was correlated with duodenal secretin content, but not with the content of other neuroendocrine peptides in the different segments investigated. Whereas antral vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) content in NOD mice with LTD was significantly higher, colonic VIP was lower in NOD mice with short-term diabetes (STD). In the duodenum, whereas the concentration of secretin in NOD mice with both STD and LTD was lower, the gastrin content was higher. Duodenal somatostatin content in NOD mice with LTD was lower. In colon, the content of galanin in NOD mice with LTD was higher than in controls. The decreased content of secretin may be among the factors that cause rapid GI in NOD mice with LTD. Changes in the antral content of VIP, duodenal somatostatin, and colonic galanin in NOD mice with LTD may cause low intestinal secretion and, together with rapid GI, give rise to diarrhoea, which is a common symptom in diabetes.

Bioactive Paper Sensor Based on the Acetylcholinesterase for the Rapid Detection of Organophosphate and Carbamate Pesticides

PubMed Central

Badawy, Mohamed E. I.; El-Aswad, Ahmed F.

2014-01-01

In many countries, people are becoming more concerned about pesticide residues which are present in or on food and feed products. For this reason, several methods have been developed to monitor the pesticide residue levels in food samples. In this study, a bioactive paper-based sensor was developed for detection of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitors including organophosphate and carbamate pesticides. Based on the Ellman colorimetric assay, the assay strip is composed of a paper support (1 × 10 cm), onto which a biopolymer chitosan gel immobilized in crosslinking by glutaraldehyde with AChE and 5,5′-dithiobis(2-nitrobenzoic) acid (DTNB) and uses acetylthiocholine iodide (ATChI) as an outside reagent. The assay protocol involves introducing the sample to sensing zone via dipping of a pesticide-containing solution. Following an incubation period, the paper is placed into ATChI solution to initiate enzyme catalyzed hydrolysis of the substrate, causing a yellow color change. The absence or decrease of the yellow color indicates the levels of the AChE inhibitors. The biosensor is able to detect organophosphate and carbamate pesticides with good detection limits (methomyl = 6.16 × 10−4 mM and profenofos = 0.27 mM) and rapid response times (~5 min). The results show that the paper-based biosensor is rapid, sensitive, inexpensive, portable, disposable, and easy-to-use. PMID:25484901

Synaptic Strength Is Bidirectionally Controlled by Opposing Activity-Dependent Regulation of Nedd4-1 and USP8

PubMed Central

Scudder, Samantha L.; Goo, Marisa S.; Cartier, Anna E.; Molteni, Alice; Schwarz, Lindsay A.; Wright, Rebecca

2014-01-01

The trafficking of AMPA receptors (AMPARs) to and from synapses is crucial for synaptic plasticity. Previous work has demonstrated that AMPARs undergo activity-dependent ubiquitination by the E3 ubiquitin ligase Nedd4-1, which promotes their internalization and degradation in lysosomes. Here, we define the molecular mechanisms involved in ubiquitination and deubiquitination of AMPARs. We report that Nedd4-1 is rapidly redistributed to dendritic spines in response to AMPAR activation and not in response to NMDA receptor (NMDAR) activation in cultured rat neurons. In contrast, NMDAR activation directly antagonizes Nedd4-1 function by promoting the deubiquitination of AMPARs. We show that NMDAR activation causes the rapid dephosphorylation and activation of the deubiquitinating enzyme (DUB) USP8. Surface AMPAR levels and synaptic strength are inversely regulated by Nedd4-1 and USP8. Strikingly, we show that homeostatic downscaling of synaptic strength is accompanied by an increase and decrease in Nedd4-1 and USP8 protein levels, respectively. Furthermore, we show that Nedd4-1 is required for homeostatic loss of surface AMPARs and downscaling of synaptic strength. This study provides the first mechanistic evidence for rapid and opposing activity-dependent control of a ubiquitin ligase and DUB at mammalian CNS synapses. We propose that the dynamic regulation of these opposing forces is critical in maintaining synapses and scaling them during homeostatic plasticity. PMID:25505317

Fluctuations in Nucleus Accumbens Extracellular Glutamate and Glucose during Motivated Glucose-drinking Behavior: Dissecting the Neurochemistry of Reward

PubMed Central

Wakabayashi, Ken T.; Myal, Stephanie E.; Kiyatkin, Eugene A.

2015-01-01

While motivated behavior involves multiple neurochemical systems, few studies have focused on the role of glutamate, the brain’s excitatory neurotransmitter, and glucose, the energetic substrate of neural activity in reward-related neural processes. Here, we used high-speed amperometry with enzyme-based substrate-sensitive and control, enzyme-free biosensors to examine second-scale fluctuations in the extracellular levels of these substances in the nucleus accumbens shell during glucose-drinking behavior in trained rats. Glutamate rose rapidly after the presentation of a glucose-containing cup and before the initiation of drinking (reward seeking), decreased more slowly to levels below baseline during consumption (sensory reward), and returned to baseline when the ingested glucose reached the brain (metabolic reward). When water was substituted for glucose, glutamate rapidly increased with cup presentation and in contrast to glucose drinking, increased above baseline after rats tasted the water and refused to drink further. Therefore, extracellular glutamate show distinct changes associated with key events of motivated drinking behavior and opposite dynamics during sensory and metabolic components of reward. In contrast to glutamate, glucose increased at each stimulus and behavioral event, showing a sustained elevation during the entire behavior and a robust post-ingestion rise that correlated with the gradual return of glutamate levels to their baseline. By comparing active drinking with passive intra-gastric glucose delivery, we revealed that fluctuations in extracellular glucose are highly dynamic, reflecting a balance between rapid delivery due to neural activity, intense metabolism, and the influence of ingested glucose reaching the brain. PMID:25393775

Rapid expansion of T cells: Effects of culture and cryopreservation and importance of short-term cell recovery.

PubMed

Sadeghi, Arian; Ullenhag, Gustav; Wagenius, Gunnar; Tötterman, Thomas H; Eriksson, Fredrik

2013-06-01

Successful cell therapy relies on the identification and mass expansion of functional cells for infusion. Cryopreservation of cells is an inevitable step in most cell therapies which also entails consequences for the frozen cells. This study assessed the impact of cryopreservation and the widely used protocol for rapid expansion of T lymphocytes. The effects on cell viability, immunocompetence and the impact on apoptotic and immunosuppressive marker expression were analyzed using validated assays. Cryopreservation of lymphocytes during the rapid expansion protocol did not affect cell viability. Lymphocytes that underwent mass expansion or culture in high dose IL-2 were unable to respond to PHA stimulation by intracellular ATP production immediately after thawing (ATP = 16 ± 11 ng/ml). However, their reactivity to PHA was regained within 48 hours of recovery (ATP = 356 ± 61 ng/ml). Analysis of mRNA levels revealed downregulation of TGF-β and IL-10 at all time points. Culture in high dose IL-2 led to upregulation of p73 and BCL-2 mRNA levels while FoxP3 expression was elevated after culture in IL-2 and artificial TCR stimuli. FoxP3 levels decreased after short-term recovery without IL-2 or stimulation. Antigen specificity, as determined by IFNγ secretion, was unaffected by cryopreservation but was completely lost after addition of high dose IL-2 and artificial TCR stimuli. In conclusion, allowing short-time recovery of mass expanded and cryopreserved cells before reinfusion could enhance the outcome of adoptive cell therapy as the cells regain immune competence and specificity.

Expression of JAKs/STATs pathway molecules in rat model of rapid focal segmental glomerulosclerosis.

PubMed

Liang, Yaojun; Jin, Yu; Li, Yuning

2009-09-01

The objective of this study was to investigate the role of the Janus kinase-signal transducers and activators of transcription (JAKs/STATs) pathway in focal segmental glomerulosclerosis. Sixty specific pathogen-free male Wistar rats were randomly divided into two groups: a model group (MG) and a control group (CG). In the MG group, nephropathy was induced by unilateral nephrectomy and a single tail vein injection of adriamycin (5 mg/kg). Ten rats were sacrificed every 2 weeks in each group. The expressions of smooth muscle alpha actin (alpha-SMA), collagen (COL)-IV, STAT1, and STAT3 were examined using histochemical techniques, and Western blotting was used to examine the protein levels of STAT1, STAT3, phosphorylated (P)-STAT1, P-STAT3, and transforming growth factor beta1 (TGFbeta(1)). The expressions of JAK1, JAK2, STAT1, STAT3, suppressors of cytokine signaling (SOCS)1, SOCS3, protein inhibitors of activated STAT (PIAS)1, and PIAS3 were also measured by real-time quantitative reverse transcriptase-PCR. A steady and significant increase in the expressions of alpha-SMA, COL-IV and TGFbeta(1) were observed in MG rats over the whole experimental course. Increased STAT1 and P-STAT1 levels in MG rats were observed by week 6, whereas increased levels of STAT3 and P-STAT3 were noted by week 2. At the mRNA levels, JAK1, STAT1, and PIAS1 were significantly increased in MG rats in week 2, whereas JAK2 mRNA showed a significant decrease by weeks 2 and 4, followed by an significant increase in week 6. Significantly increased STAT3 levels were noted in week 2, followed by a steady and significant decrease in weeks 4 and 6. Significantly reduced levels of SOCS1, SOCS3, and PIAS3 mRNA were noted at all time points. We conclude that the JAKs/STATs signaling pathway may play an important role in the pathological process of rapid focal segmental glomerulosclerosis in the rat model.

Comparison of mechanisms of action of luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) antagonist cetrorelix and LHRH agonist triptorelin on the gene expression of pituitary LHRH receptors in rats

PubMed Central

Kovacs, Magdolna; Schally, Andrew V.

2001-01-01

The mechanisms through which luteinizing hormone (LH)-releasing hormone (LHRH) antagonists suppress pituitary gonadotroph functions and LHRH-receptor (LHRH-R) expression are incompletely understood. Consequently, we investigated the direct effect of LHRH antagonist cetrorelix in vitro on the expression of the pituitary LHRH-R gene and its ability to counteract the exogenous LHRH and the agonist triptorelin in the regulation of this gene. We also compared the effects of chronic administration of cetrorelix and triptorelin on the LHRH-R mRNA level and gonadotropin secretion in ovariectomized (OVX) and normal female rats. The exposure of pituitary cells in vitro to 3-min pulses of 1 nM LHRH or 0.1 nM triptorelin for 5 h increased the LHRH-R mRNA level by 77–88%. Continuous perfusion of the cells with 50 nM cetrorelix did not cause any significant changes, but prevented the stimulatory effect of LHRH pulses on the receptor mRNA expression. In OVX rats, 10 days after administration of a depot formulation of cetrorelix, releasing 100 μg of peptide daily, the elevated LHRH-R mRNA level was decreased by 73%, whereas daily injection of 100 μg of triptorelin caused a 41% suppression. In normal female rats, cetrorelix treatment suppressed the LHRH-R mRNA level by 33%, but triptorelin increased it by 150%. The highly elevated serum LH levels in OVX rats and the normal LH concentration of cycling rats were rapidly and completely suppressed by cetrorelix. Triptorelin decreased the serum LH in OVX rats to the precastration level, but had no effect on basal LH in normal rats. Our results confirm that LHRH antagonists, such as cetrorelix, inhibit the gene expression of pituitary LHRH-R indirectly, by counteracting the stimulatory effect of LHRH. A rapid suppression of serum LH by LHRH antagonists would be advantageous in the treatment of sex hormone-dependent tumors and other conditions. PMID:11593037

Decreasing airborne contamination levels in high-risk hospital areas using a novel mobile air-treatment unit.

PubMed

Bergeron, V; Reboux, G; Poirot, J L; Laudinet, N

2007-10-01

To evaluate the performance of a new mobile air-treatment unit that uses nonthermal-plasma reactors for lowering the airborne bioburden in critical hospital environments and reducing the risk of nosocomial infection due to opportunistic airborne pathogens, such as Aspergillus fumigatus. Tests were conducted in 2 different high-risk hospital areas: an operating room under simulated conditions and rooms hosting patients in a pediatric hematology ward. Operating room testing provided performance evaluations of removal rates for airborne contamination (ie, particles larger than 0.5 microm) and overall lowering of the airborne bioburden (ie, colony-forming units of total mesophilic flora and fungal flora per cubic meter of air). In the hematology service, opportunistic and nonpathogenic airborne fungal levels in a patient's room equipped with an air-treatment unit were compared to those in a control room. In an operating room with a volume of 118 m(3), the time required to lower the concentration of airborne particles larger than 0.5 microm by 90% was decreased from 12 minutes with the existing high-efficiency particulate air filtration system to less than 2 minutes with the units tested, with a 2-log decrease in the steady-state levels of such particles (P<.01). Concurrently, total airborne mesophilic flora concentrations dropped by a factor of 2, and the concentrations of fungal species were reduced to undetectable levels (P<.01). The 12-day test period in the hematology ward revealed a significant reduction in airborne fungus levels (P<.01), with average reductions of 75% for opportunistic species and 82% for nonpathogenic species. Our data indicate that the mobile, nonthermal-plasma air treatment unit tested in this study can rapidly reduce the levels of airborne particles and significantly lower the airborne bioburden in high-risk hospital environments.

Aral Sea

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2002-01-01

This series of MODIS images shows the dwindling Aral Sea. Once one of the world's largest freshwater lakes, the Aral Sea has decreased by as much as 60% over the past few decades due to diversion of the water to grow cotton and rice. These diversion have dropped the lake levels, increased salinity, and nearly decimated the fishing industry. The previous extent of the lake is clearly visible as a whitish perimeter in these image from April 16, May 18, and June 3, 2002. s. Credit: Jacques Descloitres, MODIS Land Rapid Response Team, NASA/GSFC

Metabolic changes observed in astronauts

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Leach, Carolyn S.; Cintron, N. M.; Krauhs, J. M.

1991-01-01

Results of medical experiments with astronauts reveal rapid loss of volume (2 l) from the legs and a transient early increase in left ventricular volume index. These findings indicate that, during space flight, fluid is redistributed from the legs toward the head. In about 2 days, total body water decreases 2 to 3 percent. Increased levels of plasma renin activity and antidiuretic hormone while blood sodium and plasma volume are reduced suggest that space flight-associated factors are influencing the regulatory systems. In addition to fluid and electrolyte loss, Skylab astronauts lost an estimated 0.3 kg of protein. Endocrine factors, including increased cortisol and thyroxine and decreased insulin, are favorable for protein catabolism. The body appears to adapt to weightlessness at some physiologic cost. Readaptation to earth's gravity at landing becomes another physiologic challenge.

Peginterferon alfa-2a/ribavirin for 48 or 72 weeks in hepatitis C genotypes 1 and 4 patients with slow virologic response.

PubMed

Ferenci, Peter; Laferl, Hermann; Scherzer, Thomas-Matthias; Maieron, Andreas; Hofer, Harald; Stauber, Rudolf; Gschwantler, Michael; Brunner, Harald; Wenisch, Christoph; Bischof, Martin; Strasser, Michael; Datz, Christian; Vogel, Wolfgang; Löschenberger, Karin; Steindl-Munda, Petra

2010-02-01

This randomized multicenter trial evaluated individualization of treatment duration with peginterferon alfa-2a 180 microg/wk plus ribavirin 1000/1200 mg/day in patients with chronic hepatitis C genotype 1/4 based on the rapidity of virologic response (VR). Patients with a rapid VR (RVR; undetectable hepatitis C virus [HCV]-RNA level (<50 IU/mL at week 4) were treated for 24 weeks, those with an early VR (EVR; no RVR but undetectable HCV-RNA level or >or=2-log(10) decrease at week 12) were randomized to 48 (group A) or 72 weeks of treatment (group B; peginterferon alfa-2a was reduced to 135 microg/wk after week 48). Patients without an EVR continued treatment until week 72 if they had undetectable HCV-RNA levels at week 24. The primary end point was relapse; sustained VR (SVR; undetectable HCV-RNA level after 24 weeks of follow-up evaluation) was a secondary end point. Of 551 genotype 1/4 patients starting treatment, 289 were randomized to group A (N = 139) or group B (N = 150). The relapse rate was 33.6% in group A (95% confidence interval [CI], 24.8%-43.4%) and 18.5% in group B (95% CI, 11.9%-27.6%; P = .0115 vs group A) and the SVR rate was 51.1% (95% CI, 42.5%-59.6%) and 58.6% (95% CI, 50.3%-66.6%; P > .1), respectively. The overall SVR rate was 50.4% (278 of 551; 95% CI, 46.2%-54.7%), including 115 of 150 patients with an RVR treated for 24 weeks and 4 of 78 patients without an EVR. Extending therapy with peginterferon alfa-2a/ribavirin to 72 weeks decreases the probability of relapse in patients with an EVR. If they can be maintained on extended-duration therapy, SVR rates also may improve.

Low serum level of COMP, a cartilage turnover marker, predicts rapid and high ACR70 response to adalimumab therapy in rheumatoid arthritis.

PubMed

Morozzi, G; Fabbroni, M; Bellisai, F; Cucini, S; Simpatico, A; Galeazzi, M

2007-08-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate serum biomarkers, used in clinical routine, to predict the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) response to long-term anti-TNF alpha treatment (adalimumab). Sera from 29 consecutive rheumatoid arthritis patients were analysed for anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP), cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP) and IgM and IgA RFs (class-specific rheumatoid factors) at the start of treatment with adalimumab and after 3, 6 and 12 months. The response to the therapy was evaluated by ACR 20, 50, 70 and by DAS 28 scores. The mean serum COMP level of the population did not change after treatment. However, patients with low serum COMP levels (<10 U/l) at baseline showed a significant (p<0.02) higher ACR70 response (>50%) within 3 months, and also at 6 months, than patients with higher COMP values (ACR70<20%). This was also reflected by significantly higher decrease in DAS score at 3 (p<0.02) and 6 months (p<0.01) treatments. The IgM RF titre decreased significantly (p=0.02) after the therapy, but the percentage of serum positivity for anti-CCP and IgA/IgM RF did not change. No significant correlation was shown between serum COMP levels and C-reactive protein/erythrocyte sedimentation rate during the follow-up. Neither were any correlations shown between ACR/DAS 28 scores and anti-CCP, Ig M/IgA RFs. Our data indicate that low (<10 U/l) serum COMP before starting anti-TNF alpha treatment predicts a rapid (within 3 months) and high ACR70 response compared to RA patients with higher COMP values. This might reflect different mechanisms in the cartilage process in the RA disease at that time of treatment with different therapeutic sensitivity to anti-TNF alpha treatment.

LARP4 Is Regulated by Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha in a Tristetraprolin-Dependent Manner

PubMed Central

Mattijssen, Sandy

2015-01-01

LARP4 is a protein with unknown function that independently binds to poly(A) RNA, RACK1, and the poly(A)-binding protein (PABPC1). Here, we report on its regulation. We found a conserved AU-rich element (ARE) in the human LARP4 mRNA 3′ untranslated region (UTR). This ARE, but not its antisense version or a point-mutated version, significantly decreased the stability of β-globin reporter mRNA. We found that overexpression of tristetraprolin (TTP), but not its RNA binding mutant or the other ARE-binding proteins tested, decreased cellular LARP4 levels. RNA coimmunoprecipitation showed that TTP specifically associated with LARP4 mRNA in vivo. Consistent with this, mouse LARP4 accumulated to higher levels in TTP gene knockout (KO) cells than in control cells. Stimulation of WT cells with tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), which rapidly induces TTP, robustly decreased LARP4 with a coincident time course but had no such effect on LARP4B or La protein or on LARP4 in the TTP KO cells. The TNF-α-induced TTP pulse was followed by a transient decrease in LARP4 mRNA that was quickly followed by a subsequent transient decrease in LARP4 protein. Involvement of LARP4 as a target of TNF-α–TTP regulation provides a clue as to how its functional activity may be used in a physiologic pathway. PMID:26644407

Cultured bovine granulosa cells rapidly lose important features of their identity and functionality but partially recover under long-term culture conditions.

PubMed

Yenuganti, Vengala Rao; Vanselow, Jens

2017-05-01

Cell culture models are essential for the detailed study of molecular processes. We analyze the dynamics of changes in a culture model of bovine granulosa cells. The cells were cultured for up to 8 days and analyzed for steroid production and gene expression. According to the expression of the marker genes CDH1, CDH2 and VIM, the cells maintained their mesenchymal character throughout the time of culture. In contrast, the levels of functionally important transcripts and of estradiol and progesterone production were rapidly down-regulated but showed a substantial up-regulation from day 4. FOXL2, a marker for granulosa cell identity, was also rapidly down-regulated after plating but completely recovered towards the end of culture. In contrast, expression of the Sertoli cell marker SOX9 and the lesion/inflammation marker PTGS2 increased during the first 2 days after plating but gradually decreased later on. We conclude that only long-term culture conditions (>4 days) allow the cells to recover from plating stress and to re-acquire characteristic granulosa cell features.

Study to evaluate the effect of low-intensity pulsed electrical currents on levels of oedema in chronic non-healing wounds.

PubMed

Young, S; Hampton, S; Tadej, M

2011-08-01

To evaluate the efficacy of a medical device, Accel-Heal, which generates a low-intensity pulsed direct current, on the management of oedema in chronic leg ulcers, using high-frequency diagnostic ultrasound. High-frequency diagnostic ultrasound (20MHz) with an axial resolution of 60um was used to assess the effect of an electrical stimulation device delivering a low-intensity pulsed current on levels of oedema in chronic non-healing venous and mixed aetiology leg ulcers for a period of 10 days. Thirty patients' wounds were monitored over a 3-month period, during which time changes in levels of oedema in the wound bed and surrounding tissues were imaged and measured. A significant fall in the, previously high level, of periwound oedema was noted in the patient population after 10 days of device application. By 20 days after the first application of the device the level of periwound oedema had decreased by approximately 60% of the original level, which was maintained up to the 90-day follow-up. Occurring in parallel with this, scans of the wound bed showed a rapid decrease in the levels of oedema as the new wound matrix was laid down. The electrical stimulation device appeared to be effective in reducing oedema levels in a range of chronic wounds and their surrounding tissues. The study was funded by a grant from Synapse micro-current Ltd.

Sugar regulation of SUGAR TRANSPORTER PROTEIN 1 (STP1) expression in Arabidopsis thaliana

PubMed Central

Cordoba, Elizabeth; Aceves-Zamudio, Denise Lizeth; Hernández-Bernal, Alma Fabiola; Ramos-Vega, Maricela; León, Patricia

2015-01-01

Sugars regulate the expression of many genes at the transcriptional level. In Arabidopsis thaliana, sugars induce or repress the expression of >1800 genes, including the STP1 (SUGAR TRANSPORTER PROTEIN 1) gene, which encodes an H+/monosaccharide cotransporter. STP1 transcript levels decrease more rapidly after the addition of low concentrations of sugars than the levels of other repressed genes, such as DIN6 (DARK-INDUCED 6). We found that this regulation is exerted at the transcriptional level and is initiated by phosphorylatable sugars. Interestingly, the sugar signal that modulates STP1 expression is transmitted through a HEXOKINASE 1-independent signalling pathway. Finally, analysis of the STP1 5′ regulatory region allowed us to delimit a region of 309bp that contains the cis elements implicated in the glucose regulation of STP1 expression. Putative cis-acting elements involved in this response were identified. PMID:25281700

Analysis of C and Ku band ocean backscatter measurements under low-wind conditions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Carswell, James R.; Donnelly, William J.; McIntosh, Robert E.; Donelan, Mark A.; Vandemark, Douglas C.

1999-09-01

Airborne ocean backscatter measurements at C and Ku band wavelengths obtained in low to moderate-wind conditions are presented. The differences between the low-wind backscatter data and the CMOD4 and SASS-II models are reported. The measurements show that the upwind/crosswind backscatter ratio is greater than predicted. These large upwind/crosswind backscatter ratios are attributed to a rapid decrease in the crosswind backscatter at low winds. Qualitative agreement with the composite surface model proposed by Donelan and Pierson suggests the rapid decrease in the crosswind backscatter may be caused by viscous dampening of the Bragg-resonant capillary-gravity waves. We show that for larger antenna footprints typical of satellite-based scatterometers, the variability in the observed wind field smooths out the backscatter response such that the rapid decrease in the crosswind direction is not observed.

Down-regulation of Jab1, HIF-1alpha, and VEGF by Moloney murine leukemia virus-ts1 infection: a possible cause of neurodegeneration.

PubMed

Lungu, Gina F; Stoica, George; Wong, Paul K Y

2008-05-01

Moloney murine leukemia virus-temperature sensitive (MoMuLV-ts1)-mediated neuronal death is a result of both loss of glial support and release of cytokines and neurotoxins from ts1-infected glial cells. Here the authors propose vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) down-regulation as another contributory factor in neuronal degeneration induced by ts1 infection. To determine how ts1 affects VEGF expression in ts1-infected brain, the authors examined the expression of several proteins that are important in regulating the expression of VEGF. The authors found significant decreases in Jun-activating domain-binding protein 1 (Jab1), hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1alpha, and VEGF levels and increases in p53 protein levels in ts1-infected brains compared to noninfected control brains. The authors suggest that a decrease Jab1 expression in ts1 infection leads to accumulation of p53, which binds to HIF-1alpha to accelerate its degradation. A rapid degradation of HIF-1alpha leads to decreased VEGF production and secretion. Considering that endothelial cells are the most conspicuous in virus replication and production in ts1 infection, but are not killed by the infection, the authors examined the expression of these proteins using infected and noninfected mouse cerebrovascular endothelial (CVE) cells. The ts1- infected CVE cells showed decreased Jab1, HIF-1alpha, and VEGF mRNA and protein levels and increased p53 protein levels compared with noninfected cells, consistent with the results found in vivo. These results confirm that ts1 infection results in insufficient secretion of VEGF from endothelial cells and may result in decreased neuroprotection. This study suggested that ts1-mediated neuropathology in mice may result from changes in expression and activity of Jab1, p53, and HIF-1alpha, with a final target on VEGF expression and neuronal degeneration.

CONTRIBUTION OF AXIAL MOTOR IMPAIRMENT TO PHYSICAL INACTIVITY IN PARKINSON'S DISEASE

PubMed Central

Bryant, Mon S; Hou, Jyhgong Gabriel; Collins, Robert L; Protas, Elizabeth J

2015-01-01

Objective To investigate the relationships between motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease (PD) and activity limitations in persons with PD. Design/Methods Cross-sectional study of persons with mild to moderate PD (N=90). Associations among axial motor features, limb motor signs, the Physical Activity Scale for Elders (PASE), the ability to perform Activities of Daily Living (ADL) and level of ADL dependency were studied. A composite score of axial motor features included the following UPDRS items: speech, rigidity of the neck, arising from chair, posture, gait and postural stability. A composite score of limb motor signs included the following UPDRS items: tremor at rest of all extremities, action tremor, rigidity of all extremities, finger taps, hand movement, rapid alternating hand movements and foot tapping. Results Axial motor features of PD were significantly correlated with physical inactivity (p<.001), decreased ADL (p<.001) and increase in ADL dependency (p<.001). Limb motor signs significantly correlated with decreased ADL (p<.001) and level of ADL dependency (p=.035), but was not correlated with physical inactivity. After controlling for age, gender, disease duration and comorbidity, axial motor features contributed significantly to physical inactivity, decreased ADL and increase in ADL dependency, whereas the limb motor signs did not. Conclusions Axial motor impairment contributed to physical inactivity and decreased ability to perform ADLs in persons with PD. PMID:26368837

Fate of a metal-resistant inoculum in contaminated and pristine soils assessed by denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis

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

Stephen, J.R.; Chang, Y.J.; MacNaughton, S.J.

Cesium, cadmium, cobalt, and strontium are four contaminants frequently found in soils at biotoxic levels. Introduction of certain nongenetically modified bacteria has been frequently suggested as a method for the immobilization of heavy metal contaminants in soil, thereby reducing runoff and bioavailability. In this study, the authors have used the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) to track the survival of the five bacterial species added to soil microcosms with and without the addition of a mixture of these metals. The PCR primers targeted conserved regions of the 165 rDNA molecular present in all bacteria. Themore » reaction products were shown to reflect the relative abundance of the bacteria both in mixtures of pure cultures and against a background of all the eubacterial species present in the soil following inoculation. Three of the species (Pseudomonas aeruginosa FRD-1, Shewanella putrifaciens 200, and Desulfovibrio vulgaris Hildenborough) decreased rapidly following inoculation into both soils. The proportion of Alcaligenes eutrophus CH34 remained at a constant level throughout the 8-week experiment in both soil treatments. Sphingomonas aromaticivorans B0695 showed toxic metal-dependent survival in that its relative abundance dropped rapidly in pristine soil but remained at approximately inoculation levels throughout the experiment in contaminated microcosms.« less

Stability of the Osmoregulated Promoter-Derived proP mRNA Is Posttranscriptionally Regulated by RNase III in Escherichia coli

PubMed Central

Lim, Boram

2015-01-01

ABSTRACT The enzymatic activity of Escherichia coli endo-RNase III determines the stability of a subgroup of mRNA species, including bdm, betT, and proU, whose protein products are associated with the cellular response to osmotic stress. Here, we report that the stability of proP mRNA, which encodes a transporter of osmoprotectants, is controlled by RNase III in response to osmotic stress. We observed that steady-state levels of proP mRNA and ProP protein are inversely correlated with cellular RNase III activity and, in turn, affect the proline uptake capacity of the cell. In vitro and in vivo analyses of proP mRNA revealed RNase III cleavage sites in a stem-loop within the 5′ untranslated region present only in proP mRNA species synthesized from the osmoregulated P1 promoter. Introduction of nucleotide substitutions in the cleavage site identified inhibited the ribonucleolytic activity of RNase III on proP mRNA, increasing the steady-state levels and half-life of the mRNA. In addition, decreased RNase III activity coincided with a significant increase in both the half-life and abundance of proP mRNA under hyperosmotic stress conditions. Analysis of the RNA bound to RNase III via in vivo cross-linking and immunoprecipitation indicated that this phenomenon is related to the decreased RNA binding capacity of RNase III. Our findings suggest the existence of an RNase III-mediated osmoregulatory network that rapidly balances the expression levels of factors associated with the cellular response to osmotic stress in E. coli. IMPORTANCE Our results demonstrate that RNase III activity on proP mRNA degradation is downregulated in Escherichia coli cells under osmotic stress. In addition, we show that the downregulation of RNase III activity is associated with decreased RNA binding capacity of RNase III under hyperosmotic conditions. In particular, our findings demonstrate a link between osmotic stress and RNase III activity, underscoring the growing importance of posttranscriptional regulation in modulating rapid physiological adjustment to environmental changes. PMID:25645556

Marked decrease in specific activity contributes to disease phenotype in two human glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase mutants, G6PD(Union) and G6PD(Andalus).

PubMed

Wang, Xiao-Tao; Lam, Veronica M S; Engel, Paul C

2005-09-01

Clones overexpressing clinical glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) mutants Union (c.1360C>T/p.Arg454Cys) and Andalus (c.1361G>A/p.Arg454His), have been constructed. These abolish a salt bridge between Arg454 and Asp 286. One mutant is reportedly a Class II clinical variant and the other a Class I. Kinetic studies of the purified proteins reveal that, for both mutants, kcat is about 10-fold decreased, thus giving a 90% decrease in the WHO assay, and also presumably under physiological conditions. In contrast with unfavourable changes in Vmax for both mutants, Km values for both G6P and NADP+ are decreased approximately 5-fold. Measurements with alternative substrates confirm that G6PD Union, like the wild-type enzyme, follows a rapid-equilibrium random-order mechanism, allowing calculation of enzyme-substrate dissociation constants from initial-rate parameters. The mutations result in several-fold tighter binding of glucose 6-phosphate to the free enzyme. Binding, however, is clearly less productive than with normal enzyme. G6PD mutations are thought to cause haemolytic anaemia by compromising enzyme stability. Both these mutants indeed show somewhat decreased thermostability. However, at 37 degrees C and with NADP+, the stability differences are only moderate. Decreased catalytic efficiency clearly contributes to the disease phenotype of these two mutants, entirely accounting for reported decrease in leukocyte G6PD levels, though not for still lower levels in erythrocytes. Neither the kinetic nor the stability effects appear to justify the different clinical classification of these mutations.

Methylene Blue to Treat Protamine-induced Anaphylaxis Reactions. An Experimental Study in Pigs.

PubMed

Albuquerque, Agnes Afrodite S; Margarido, Edson A; Menardi, Antonio Carlos; Scorzoni, Adilson; Celotto, Andrea Carla; Rodrigues, Alfredo J; Vicente, Walter Vilella A; Evora, Paulo Roberto B

2016-01-01

To examine if methylene blue (MB) can counteract or prevent protamine (P) cardiovascular effects. The protocol included five heparinized pig groups: Group Sham -without any drug; Group MB - MB 3 mg/kg infusion; Group P - protamine; Group P/MB - MB after protamine; Group MB/P - MB before protamine. Nitric oxide levels were obtained by the nitric oxide/ozone chemiluminescence method, performed using the Nitric Oxide Analizer 280i (Sievers, Boulder, CO, USA). Malondialdehyde plasma levels were estimated using the thiobarbiturate technique. 1) Groups Sham and MB presented unchanged parameters; 2) Group P - a) Intravenous protamine infusion caused mean arterial pressure decrease and recovery trend after 25-30 minutes, b) Cardiac output decreased and remained stable until the end of protamine injection, and c) Sustained systemic vascular resistance increased until the end of protamine injection; 3) Methylene blue infusion after protamine (Group P/MB) - a) Marked mean arterial pressure decreased after protamine, but recovery after methylene blue injection, b) Cardiac output decreased after protamine infusion, recovering after methylene blue infusion, and c) Sustained systemic vascular resistance increased after protamine infusion and methylene blue injections; 4) Methylene blue infusion before protamine (Group MB/P) - a) Mean arterial pressure decrease was less severe with rapid recovery, b) After methylene blue, there was a progressive cardiac output increase up to protamine injection, when cardiac output decreased, and c) Sustained systemic vascular resistance decreased after protamine, followed by immediate Sustained systemic vascular resistance increase; 5) Plasma nitrite/nitrate and malondialdehyde values did not differ among the experimental groups. Reviewing these experimental results and our clinical experience, we suggest methylene blue safely prevents and treats hemodynamic protamine complications, from the endothelium function point of view.

A Critical Role of Mitochondria in BDNF-Associated Synaptic Plasticity After One-Week Vortioxetine Treatment

PubMed Central

Chen, Fenghua; Danladi, Jibrin; Ardalan, Maryam; Elfving, Betina; Müller, Heidi K; Sanchez, Connie; Nyengaard, Jens R

2018-01-01

Abstract Background Preclinical studies have indicated that antidepressant effect of vortioxetine involves increased synaptic plasticity and promotion of spine maturation. Mitochondria dysfunction may contribute to the pathophysiological basis of major depressive disorder. Taking into consideration that vortioxetine increases spine number and dendritic branching in hippocampus CA1 faster than fluoxetine, we hypothesize that new spines induced by vortioxetine can rapidly form functional synapses by mitochondrial support, accompanied by increased brain-derived neurotrophic factor signaling. Methods Rats were treated for 1 week with vortioxetine or fluoxetine at pharmacologically relevant doses. Number of synapses and mitochondria in hippocampus CA1 were quantified by electron microscopy. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor protein levels were visualized with immunohistochemistry. Gene and protein expression of synapse and mitochondria-related markers were investigated with real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction and immunoblotting. Results Vortioxetine increased number of synapses and mitochondria significantly, whereas fluoxetine had no effect after 1-week dosing. BDNF levels in hippocampus DG and CA1 were significantly higher after vortioxetine treatment. Gene expression levels of Rac1 after vortioxetine treatment were significantly increased. There was a tendency towards increased gene expression levels of Drp1 and protein levels of Rac1. However, both gene and protein levels of c-Fos were significantly decreased. Furthermore, there was a significant positive correlation between BDNF levels and mitochondria and synapse numbers. Conclusion Our results imply that mitochondria play a critical role in synaptic plasticity accompanied by increased BDNF levels. Rapid changes in BDNF levels and synaptic/mitochondria plasticity of hippocampus following vortioxetine compared with fluoxetine may be ascribed to vortioxetine’s modulation of serotonin receptors. PMID:29514282

Effect of Exogenous Indole-3-Acetic Acid and Indole-3-Butyric Acid on Internal Levels of the Respective Auxins and Their Conjugation with Aspartic Acid during Adventitious Root Formation in Pea Cuttings

PubMed Central

Nordström, Ann-Caroline; Jacobs, Fernando Alvarado; Eliasson, Lennart

1991-01-01

The influence of exogenous indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) and indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) on the internal levels of these auxins was studied during the first 4 days of adventitious root formation in cuttings of Pisum sativum L. The quantitations were done by high performance liquid chromatography with spectrofluorometric detection. IBA, identified by combined gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), was found to naturally occur in this plant material. The root inducing ability of exogenous IBA was superior to that of IAA. The IAA level in the tissue increased considerably on the first day after application of IAA, but rapidly decreased again, returning to a level twice the control by day 3. The predominant metabolic route was conjugation with aspartic acid, as reflected by the increase in the level of indole-3-acetylaspartic acid. The IBA treatment resulted in increases in the levels of IBA, IAA, and indole-3-acetylaspartic acid. The IAA content rapidly returned to control levels, whereas the IBA level remained high throughout the experimental period. High amounts of indole-3-butyrylaspartic acid were found in the tissue after feeding with IBA. The identity of the conjugate was confirmed by 1H-nuclear magnetic resonance and GC-MS. IBA was much more stable in solution than IAA. No IAA was detected after 48 hours, whereas 70% IBA was still recovered after this time. The relatively higher root inducing ability of IBA is ascribed to the fact that its level remained elevated longer than that of IAA, even though IBA was metabolized in the tissue. Adventitious root formation is discussed on the basis of these findings. PMID:16668265

Effects of Self Stretching on Pain and Musculoskeletal Symptom of Bus Drivers

PubMed Central

Lee, Jung-Ho; Gak, Hwang Bo

2014-01-01

[Purpose] The aim of this study was to evaluate the musculoskeletal symptoms, pain and risk of postures as well as the effects of stretching exercise on the work-related symptoms and pain of bus drivers. [Subjects and Methods] Eighty-one drivers were randomly recruited from a bus corporation for this study. Information about pain levels, painful regions, and general characteristics of subjects was obtained using the symptom research form (KOSHA Code H-30-2003). The level of pain was assessed on a scale of numeric rating scale (NRS) which is divided by 10. Ergonomic posture assessment was conducted using the rapid upper limb assessment (RULA). Self-stretching exercise was performed for 4 weeks by the bus drivers who suffered from neck and shoulder pain. [Results] Musculoskeletal symptoms were present in the order of shoulder, neck, lower back and lower extremities. Compared with other jobs, the final score, and the action level of bus drivers were very high, showing 57.6% of action levels 3 and 4. A statistically significant decrease of pain was shown after the self-stretching intervention. There was also a significant decrease of musculoskeletal symptoms in the neck and shoulders after the self-stretching exercise. [Conclusion] Performing stretching for musculoskeletal symptoms had a positive influence on the symptoms and reduced pain. PMID:25540496

Geranylgeranylacetone prevents stress-induced decline of leptin secretion in mice.

PubMed

Itai, Miki; Kuwano, Yuki; Nishikawa, Tatsuya; Rokutan, Kazuhito; Kensei, Nishida

2018-01-01

Geranylgeranylacetone (GGA) is a chaperon inducer that protects various types of cell and tissue against stress. We examined whether GGA modulated energy intake and expenditure under stressful conditions. After mice were untreated or treated orally with GGA (0.16 g per kg body weight per day) for 10 days, they were subjected to 2-h restraint stress once or once a day for 5 consecutive days. GGA administration did not affect corticosterone response to the stress. Restraint stress rapidly decreased plasma leptin levels in control mice. GGA significantly increased circulating leptin levels without changing food intake and prevented the stress-induced decline of circulating leptin. However GGA-treated mice significantly reduced food intake during the repeated stress, compared with control mice. GGA prevented the stress-induced decline of leptin mRNA and its protein levels in epidydimal adipose tissues. We also found that GGA decreased ghrelin mRNA expression in gastric mucosa before the stress, whereas GGA-treated mice recovered the ghrelin mRNA expression to the baseline level after the repeated stress. Leptin and ghrelin are now recognized as regulators of anxiety and depressive mood. Our results suggest that GGA may regulate food intake and relief stress-induced mood disturbance through regulating leptin and ghrelin secretions. J. Med. Invest. 65:103-109, February, 2018.

Major transgression during Late Cretaceous constrained by basin sediments in northern Africa: implication for global rise in sea level

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

An, Kaixuan; Chen, Hanlin; Lin, Xiubin; Wang, Fang; Yang, Shufeng; Wen, Zhixin; Wang, Zhaoming; Zhang, Guangya; Tong, Xiaoguang

2017-12-01

The global rise in sea level during the Late Cretaceous has been an issue under discussion by the international geological community. Despite the significance, its impact on the deposition of continental basins is not well known. This paper presents the systematic review on stratigraphy and sedimentary facies compiled from 22 continental basins in northern Africa. The results indicate that the region was dominated by sediments of continental facies during Early Cretaceous, which were replaced by deposits of marine facies in Late Cretaceous. The spatio-temporal distribution of sedimentary facies suggests marine facies deposition reached as far south as Taoudeni-Iullemmeden-Chad-Al Kufra-Upper Egypt basins during Turonian to Campanian. These results indicate that northern Africa underwent significant transgression during Late Cretaceous reaching its peak during Turonian to Coniacian. This significant transgression has been attributed to the global high sea-level during this time. Previous studies show that global rise in sea level in Late Cretaceous may have been driven by an increase in the volume of ocean water (attributed to high CO2 concentration and subsequently warm climate) and a decrease in the volume of the ocean basin (attributed to rapid production of oceanic crust and seamounts). Tectonic mechanism of rapid production of oceanic crust and seamounts could play a fundamental role in driving the global rise in sea level and subsequent transgression in northern Africa during Late Cretaceous.

Relationship of /sup 65/Zn absorption kinetics to intestinal metallothionein in rats: effects of zinc depletion and fasting

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

Hoadley, J.E.; Leinart, A.S.; Cousins, R.J.

1988-04-01

Intestinal 65Zn transport and metallothionein levels were examined in rats fed zinc-adequate and zinc-deficient diets and in rats subjected to an overnight fast. 65Zn uptake by intestines perfused with 1.5 microM 65Zn was greater in both zinc-deficient and fasted groups than in the control group. Mucosal retention of 65Zn was also greater in the zinc-deficient group but not in the fasted group. The greater 65Zn uptake in the fasted group was associated with a compartment that readily released 65Zn back into the lumen. Kinetic analysis of the rate of 65Zn transfer to the vascular space (absorption) showed that 65Zn absorptionmore » involved approximately 3% of mucosal 65Zn in a 40-min perfusion period. The half-life (t1/2) of this mucosal 65Zn rapid transport pool corresponded directly to changes in intestinal metallothionein levels. Both metallothionein and t1/2 were higher in the fasted group and lower in the zinc-deficient group than in controls. While the rate of 65Zn transport from this rapid transport pool decreased with increasing metallothionein level, the predicted pool size increased when the metallothionein level was elevated by fasting. These results indicate that the rate of zinc absorption is inversely related to intestinal metallothionein levels, but the portion of mucosal 65Zn available for absorption is directly related to intestinal metallothionein.« less

Body Growth and Rapid Hematological Development Support Breath Hold of Baby Belugas (Delphinapterus leucas) during Subice Transit.

PubMed

Noren, Shawn R; Poll, Caryn P; Edwards, Matthew S

Body size and oxygen stores in the blood and muscle set breath-hold limits in marine mammals, yet these characteristics are understudied in immature cetaceans. We examined body mass and hematology from birth through adulthood in beluga whales (Delphinapterus leucas). At birth, body mass was 8% and 6% of the maximum mass recorded for adult females and males, respectively. Body mass then increased rapidly, approaching an asymptote around 12 yr for females and 18 yr for males. Interestingly, red blood cell counts, hemoglobin content, and hematocrit levels decreased after birth; this neonatal anemia was reversed as levels increased after 2 mo postpartum. Mature levels were obtained at approximately 8, 9, and 11 mo postpartum, respectively. Neonatal mean corpuscular hemoglobin also increased with ontogeny; mature levels were achieved by approximately 13 mo after birth. In contrast, mean corpuscular volume and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration demonstrated a significant but subtle increase throughout ontogeny. Our results indicate that postnatal maturation was required and that maturation occurred far earlier than the age at weaning (i.e., 2-3 yr postpartum). This is atypical of marine mammals, which generally achieve mature hemoglobin levels at weaning. Hematological maturation before maternal independence undoubtedly supports the prolonged breath holds of young belugas transiting under sea ice. This assessment enhances our knowledge of cetacean physiology and provides important inputs for determining age-specific dive capacity, yielding insights into age-specific flexibility to alter underwater behaviors, as will be required for future regime shifts and disturbances.

Weight and metabolic effects of CPAP in obstructive sleep apnea patients with obesity.

PubMed

Garcia, Jose M; Sharafkhaneh, Hossein; Hirshkowitz, Max; Elkhatib, Rania; Sharafkhaneh, Amir

2011-06-15

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is associated with obesity, insulin resistance (IR) and diabetes. Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) rapidly mitigates OSA in obese subjects but its metabolic effects are not well-characterized. We postulated that CPAP will decrease IR, ghrelin and resistin and increase adiponectin levels in this setting. In a pre- and post-treatment, within-subject design, insulin and appetite-regulating hormones were assayed in 20 obese subjects with OSA before and after 6 months of CPAP use. Primary outcome measures included glucose, insulin, and IR levels. Other measures included ghrelin, leptin, adiponectin and resistin levels. Body weight change were recorded and used to examine the relationship between glucose regulation and appetite-regulating hormones. CPAP effectively improved hypoxia. However, subjects had increased insulin and IR. Fasting ghrelin decreased significantly while leptin, adiponectin and resistin remained unchanged. Forty percent of patients gained weight significantly. Changes in body weight directly correlated with changes in insulin and IR. Ghrelin changes inversely correlated with changes in IR but did not change as a function of weight. Weight change rather than elimination of hypoxia modulated alterations in IR in obese patients with OSA during the first six months of CPAP therapy.

Hypoxia decreases creatine uptake in cardiomyocytes, while creatine supplementation enhances HIF activation.

PubMed

Santacruz, Lucia; Arciniegas, Antonio Jose Luis; Darrabie, Marcus; Mantilla, Jose G; Baron, Rebecca M; Bowles, Dawn E; Mishra, Rajashree; Jacobs, Danny O

2017-08-01

Creatine (Cr), phosphocreatine (PCr), and creatine kinases (CK) comprise an energy shuttle linking ATP production in mitochondria with cellular consumption sites. Myocytes cannot synthesize Cr: these cells depend on uptake across the cell membrane by a specialized creatine transporter (CrT) to maintain intracellular Cr levels. Hypoxia interferes with energy metabolism, including the activity of the creatine energy shuttle, and therefore affects intracellular ATP and PCr levels. Here, we report that exposing cultured cardiomyocytes to low oxygen levels rapidly diminishes Cr transport by decreasing V max and K m Pharmacological activation of AMP-activated kinase (AMPK) abrogated the reduction in Cr transport caused by hypoxia. Cr supplementation increases ATP and PCr content in cardiomyocytes subjected to hypoxia, while also significantly augmenting the cellular adaptive response to hypoxia mediated by HIF-1 activation. Our results indicate that: (1) hypoxia reduces Cr transport in cardiomyocytes in culture, (2) the cytoprotective effects of Cr supplementation are related to enhanced adaptive physiological responses to hypoxia mediated by HIF-1, and (3) Cr supplementation increases the cellular ATP and PCr content in RNCMs exposed to hypoxia. © 2017 The Authors. Physiological Reports published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of The Physiological Society and the American Physiological Society.

Three Dimensional Glacier Flow of Bylot Island Derived Using Sentinel 1A and 1B

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bobeck, J. M.

With the rise of temperatures in the Arctic, Sentinel 1A and 1B data are used to examine the current state of Bylot Island's glaciers. This will provide valuable data for future sea-level and climate models to accurately predict the contribution the High Canadian Arctic has to sea-level rise. Bylot Island is in a unique location in the High Canadian Arctic, as it sits on a transition zone between warming in the north and historical cooling to the south. By using Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (InSAR), the three dimensional velocity vectors are calculated and used to produce horizontal velocity and melt loss maps for Bylot Island. Optical Feature Tracking is employed using Landsat 7 and Landsat 8 data to validate results and calculate Bylot Island's ice cap extent. Results show a decrease in overall glacier velocity, but increased glacier thinning from surface melt. Increased glacial thinning can be contributed to a Melt-Albedo positive feedback cycle. With melting beginning earlier each season, the overall extent of Bylot Island is rapidly decreasing and contributing more melt to sea-level than previously thought.

Fiber concentrate from orange (Citrus sinensis L.) bagase: characterization and application as bakery product ingredient.

PubMed

Romero-Lopez, Maria R; Osorio-Diaz, Perla; Bello-Perez, Luis A; Tovar, Juscelino; Bernardino-Nicanor, Aurea

2011-01-01

Orange is a tropical fruit used in the juice industry, yielding important quantities of by products. The objective of this work was to obtain a dietary fiber-rich orange bagasse product (DFROBP), evaluate its chemical composition and its use in the preparation of a bakery product (muffin). Muffins containing two different levels of DFROBP were studied regarding chemical composition, in vitro starch digestibility, predicted glyceamic index and acceptability in a sensory test. DFROBP showed low fat and high dietary fiber contents. The soluble and insoluble dietary fiber fractions were balanced, which is of importance for the health beneficial effects of fiber sources. DFROBP-containing muffins showed the same rapidly digestible starch content as the reference muffin, whilst the slowly digestible starch level increased with the addition of DFROBP. However, the resistant starch content decreased when DFROBP increased in the muffin. The addition of DFROBP to muffin decreased the predicted glyceamic index, but no difference was found between the muffins prepared with the two DFROBP levels. The sensory score did not show difference between control muffin and that added with 10% of DFROBP. The addition of DFROBP to bakery products can be an alternative for people requiring low glyceamic response.

Behavior of pathogenic bacteria in the oyster, Crassostrea commercialis, during depuration, re-laying, and storage.

PubMed Central

Son, N T; Fleet, G H

1980-01-01

Oysters (Crassostrea commercials) harvested from major cultivation areas within the state of New South Wales, Australia, were commonly contaminated with low levels of the food-poisoning organisms Bacillus cereus, Clostridium perfringens, and Vibrio parahaemolyticus. Salmonella was found in oysters on only one occasion. These bacteria were cleansed from oysters during oyster purification by re-laying in a non-polluted waterway. Oysters were laboratory contaminated to levels in excess 1,000 cells per g with either B. cereus, C. perfringens, V. parahaemolyticus, Salmonella typhimurium, or S. senftenberg. These species were cleansed from such oysters during purification in a laboratory depuration unit that used ultraviolet light for sterilizing the depuration water. Escherichia coli was also cleansed from oysters under the same re-laying or depuration conditions so that its measurement alone could be used to indicate the cleansing of the above pathogenic species. The levels of these bacteria were also measured during the storage of oysters under conditions that occur during marketing. While B. cereus counts remained relatively stable during storage, the Salmonella spp. gradually decreased in numbers and C. perfringens rapidly died off. V. parahaemolyticus counts increased slightly during the first 4 days of storage, after which decreases occurred. PMID:6257164

Behavior of pathogenic bacteria in the oyster, Crassostrea commercialis, during depuration, re-laying, and storage.

PubMed

Son, N T; Fleet, G H

1980-12-01

Oysters (Crassostrea commercials) harvested from major cultivation areas within the state of New South Wales, Australia, were commonly contaminated with low levels of the food-poisoning organisms Bacillus cereus, Clostridium perfringens, and Vibrio parahaemolyticus. Salmonella was found in oysters on only one occasion. These bacteria were cleansed from oysters during oyster purification by re-laying in a non-polluted waterway. Oysters were laboratory contaminated to levels in excess 1,000 cells per g with either B. cereus, C. perfringens, V. parahaemolyticus, Salmonella typhimurium, or S. senftenberg. These species were cleansed from such oysters during purification in a laboratory depuration unit that used ultraviolet light for sterilizing the depuration water. Escherichia coli was also cleansed from oysters under the same re-laying or depuration conditions so that its measurement alone could be used to indicate the cleansing of the above pathogenic species. The levels of these bacteria were also measured during the storage of oysters under conditions that occur during marketing. While B. cereus counts remained relatively stable during storage, the Salmonella spp. gradually decreased in numbers and C. perfringens rapidly died off. V. parahaemolyticus counts increased slightly during the first 4 days of storage, after which decreases occurred.

Dual inhibition of survivin and MAOA synergistically impairs growth of PTEN-negative prostate cancer.

PubMed

Xu, S; Adisetiyo, H; Tamura, S; Grande, F; Garofalo, A; Roy-Burman, P; Neamati, N

2015-07-14

Survivin and monoamine oxidase A (MAOA) levels are elevated in prostate cancer (PCa) compared to normal prostate glands. However, the relationship between survivin and MAOA in PCa is unclear. We examined MAOA expression in the prostate lobes of a conditional PTEN-deficient mouse model mirroring human PCa, with or without survivin knockout. We also silenced one gene at a time and examined the expression of the other. We further evaluated the combination of MAOA inhibitors and survivin suppressants on the growth, viability, migration and invasion of PCa cells. Survivin and MAOA levels are both increased in clinical PCa tissues and significantly associated with patients' survival. Survivin depletion delayed MAOA increase during PCa progression, and silencing MAOA decreased survivin expression. The combination of MAOA inhibitors and the survivin suppressants (YM155 and SC144) showed significant synergy on the inhibition of PCa cell growth, migration and invasion with concomitant decrease in survivin and MMP-9 levels. There is a positive feedback loop between survivin and MAOA expression in PCa. Considering that survivin suppressants and MAOA inhibitors are currently available in clinical trials and clinical use, their synergistic effects in PCa support a rapid translation of this combination to clinical practice.

Effects of Increased Nitrogen Deposition and Rotation Length on Long-Term Productivity of Cunninghamia lanceolata Plantation in Southern China

PubMed Central

Zhao, Meifang; Xiang, Wenhua; Tian, Dalun; Deng, Xiangwen; Huang, Zhihong; Zhou, Xiaolu; Peng, Changhui

2013-01-01

Cunninghamia lanceolata (Lamb.) Hook. has been widely planted in subtropical China to meet increasing timber demands, leading to short-rotation practices that deplete soil nutrients. However, increased nitrogen (N) deposition offsets soil N depletion. While long-term experimental data investigating the coupled effects related to short rotation practices and increasing N deposition are scarce, applying model simulations may yield insights. In this study, the CenW3.1 model was validated and parameterized using data from pure C. lanceolata plantations. The model was then used to simulate various changes in long-term productivity. Results indicated that responses of productivity of C. lanceolata plantation to increased N deposition were more related to stand age than N addition, depending on the proportion and age of growing forests. Our results have also shown a rapid peak in growth and N dynamics. The peak is reached sooner and is higher under higher level of N deposition. Short rotation lengths had a greater effect on productivity and N dynamics than high N deposition levels. Productivity and N dynamics decreased as the rotation length decreased. Total productivity levels suggest that a 30-year rotation length maximizes productivity at the 4.9 kg N ha−1 year−1 deposition level. For a specific rotation length, higher N deposition levels resulted in greater overall ecosystem C and N storage, but this positive correlation tendency gradually slowed down with increasing N deposition levels. More pronounced differences in N deposition levels occurred as rotation length decreased. To sustain C. lanceolata plantation productivity without offsite detrimental N effects, the appropriate rotation length is about 20–30 years for N deposition levels below 50 kg N ha−1 year−1 and about 15–20 years for N deposition levels above 50 kg N ha−1 year−1. These results highlight the importance of assessing N effects on carbon management and the long-term productivity of forest ecosystems. PMID:23390533

Caffeine-induced [Ca2+] oscillations in neurones of frog sympathetic ganglia

PubMed Central

Cseresnyés, Zoltán; Bustamante, Alexander I; Schneider, Martin F

1999-01-01

Single cell fluorimetry was used to monitor caffeine-induced oscillations of cytosolic [Ca2+] in frog sympathetic ganglion neurones in 2.0 mm K+ Ringer solution.[Ca2+] oscillations decreased in frequency and exhibited three different amplitude patterns after the first large peak of [Ca2+]: (a) a series of big oscillations (BOs) of constant large amplitude (300–;400 nm), (b) a series of much smaller oscillations (SOs) (40–60 nm), or (c) a series of decaying oscillations (DOs) of rapidly decreasing amplitude.A model in which the oscillation amplitude was determined by the Ca2+ content of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) whereas the oscillation frequency was controlled by how rapidly the cytosolic [Ca2+] reached the threshold for Ca2+-induced Ca2+ release (CICR) was able to simulate each observed pattern by varying the level of activity of the ER Ca2+ pump (SERCA), CICR and release-activated Ca2+ transport (RACT). A cumulative, cytosolic Ca2+-dependent inactivation of the plasma membrane (PM) Ca2+ influx or of the Ca2+-sensitive leak coefficient of the ryanodine receptors caused the oscillation frequency to decrease in the model.Transitions between BOs and SOs and changes in [Ca2+] oscillations caused by ryanodine, thapsigargin, lanthanum and FCCP could also be simulated.We conclude that RACT, SERCA, CICR and Ca2+-dependent PM Ca2+ influx are major mechanisms underlying [Ca2+] oscillations in these neurones. PMID:9831718

Rapid recovery protocol for peri-operative care of total hip and total knee arthroplasty patients.

PubMed

Berend, Keith R; Lombardi, Adolph V; Mallory, Thomas H

2004-01-01

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA) are among the most successful procedures performed in terms of quality-of-life years gained. The long-term goals of arthroplasty, to relieve pain, increase function, provide stability, and obtain durability, are accomplished in the vast majority of cases. The short-term goals, however, have become the target of aggressive peri-operative programs that aim to speed recovery, reduce morbidity and complications, and create a program of efficiency while maintaining the highest level of patient care. The concept of rapid recovery is built upon the burgeoning interest in less-invasive and small-incision surgeries for (THA and TKA). However, the incision size does not appear to be the most critical aspect of the program. This article outlines the specific elements of the rapid-recovery program for lower-extremity arthroplasty patients, including pre-operative patient education, peri-operative nutrition, vitamin and herbal medication supplementation, preemptive analgesia, and post-operative rehabilitation. A holistic peri-operative, rapid-recovery program has lead to a significantly decreased hospital length of stay and significantly lower hospital readmission rates in patients who undergo primary THAs and TKAs. Combining these results with minimally invasive techniques and instrumentation should make recovery even faster.

Rapid High-Level Production of Functional HIV Broadly Neutralizing Monoclonal Antibodies in Transient Plant Expression Systems

PubMed Central

Rosenberg, Yvonne; Sack, Markus; Montefiori, David; Forthal, Donald; Mao, Lingjun; -Abanto, Segundo Hernandez; Urban, Lori; Landucci, Gary; Fischer, Rainer; Jiang, Xiaoming

2013-01-01

Passive immunotherapy using anti-HIV broadly neutralizing monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) has shown promise as an HIV treatment, reducing mother-to-child-transmission (MTCT) of simian/human immunodeficiency virus (SHIV) in non-human primates and decreasing viral rebound in patients who ceased receiving anti-viral drugs. In addition, a cocktail of potent mAbs may be useful as mucosal microbicides and provide an effective therapy for post-exposure prophylaxis. However, even highly neutralizing HIV mAbs used today may lose their effectiveness if resistance occurs, requiring the rapid production of new or engineered mAbs on an ongoing basis in order to counteract the viral resistance or the spread of a certain HIV-1 clade in a particular region or patient. Plant-based expression systems are fast, inexpensive and scalable and are becoming increasingly popular for the production of proteins and monoclonal antibodies. In the present study, Agrobacterium-mediated transient transfection of plants, utilizing two species of Nicotiana, have been tested to rapidly produce high levels of an HIV 89.6PΔ140env and several well-studied anti-HIV neutralizing monoclonal antibodies (b12, 2G12, 2F5, 4E10, m43, VRC01) or a single chain antibody construct (m9), for evaluation in cell-based viral inhibition assays. The protein-A purified plant-derived antibodies were intact, efficiently bound HIV envelope, and were equivalent to, or in one case better than, their counterparts produced in mammalian CHO or HEK-293 cells in both neutralization and antibody dependent viral inhibition assays. These data indicate that transient plant-based transient expression systems are very adaptable and could rapidly generate high levels of newly identified functional recombinant HIV neutralizing antibodies when required. In addition, they warrant detailed cost-benefit analysis of prolonged incubation in plants to further increase mAb production. PMID:23533588

Development of a Rapid Insulin Assay by Homogenous Time-Resolved Fluorescence

PubMed Central

Vallaghe, Julie; Gregor, Nathalie; Donthamsetti, Prashant; Harris, Paul E.; Pierre, Nicolas; Freyberg, Robin; Charrier-Savournin, Fabienne; Javitch, Jonathan A.; Freyberg, Zachary

2016-01-01

Direct measurement of insulin is critical for basic and clinical studies of insulin secretion. However, current methods are expensive and time-consuming. We developed an insulin assay based on homogenous time-resolved fluorescence that is significantly more rapid and cost-effective than current commonly used approaches. This assay was applied effectively to an insulin secreting cell line, INS-1E cells, as well as pancreatic islets, allowing us to validate the assay by elucidating mechanisms by which dopamine regulates insulin release. We found that dopamine functioned as a significant negative modulator of glucose-stimulated insulin secretion. Further, we showed that bromocriptine, a known dopamine D2/D3 receptor agonist and newly approved drug used for treatment of type II diabetes mellitus, also decreased glucose-stimulated insulin secretion in islets to levels comparable to those caused by dopamine treatment. PMID:26849707

Switching dynamics of TaOx-based threshold switching devices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Goodwill, Jonathan M.; Gala, Darshil K.; Bain, James A.; Skowronski, Marek

2018-03-01

Bi-stable volatile switching devices are being used as access devices in solid-state memory arrays and as the active part of compact oscillators. Such structures exhibit two stable states of resistance and switch between them at a critical value of voltage or current. A typical resistance transient under a constant amplitude voltage pulse starts with a slow decrease followed by a rapid drop and leveling off at a low steady state value. This behavior prompted the interpretation of initial delay and fast transition as due to two different processes. Here, we show that the entire transient including incubation time, transition time, and the final resistance values in TaOx-based switching can be explained by one process, namely, Joule heating with the rapid transition due to the thermal runaway. The time, which is required for the device in the conducting state to relax back to the stable high resistance one, is also consistent with the proposed mechanism.

Northern Hemisphere Stratospheric Ozone Depletion Caused by Solar Proton Events: The Role of the Polar Vortex

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Denton, M. H.; Kivi, R.; Ulich, T.; Clilverd, M. A.; Rodger, C. J.; von der Gathen, P.

2018-02-01

Ozonesonde data from four sites are analyzed in relation to 191 solar proton events from 1989 to 2016. Analysis shows ozone depletion ( 10-35 km altitude) commencing following the SPEs. Seasonally corrected ozone data demonstrate that depletions occur only in winter/early spring above sites where the northern hemisphere polar vortex (PV) can be present. A rapid reduction in stratospheric ozone is observed with the maximum decrease occurring 10-20 days after solar proton events. Ozone levels remain depleted in excess of 30 days. No depletion is observed above sites completely outside the PV. No depletion is observed in relation to 191 random epochs at any site at any time of year. Results point to the role of indirect ozone destruction, most likely via the rapid descent of long-lived NOx species in the PV during the polar winter.

Early Changes in the Ultrastructure of Streptococcus faecalis After Amino Acid Starvation

PubMed Central

Higgins, M. L.; Shockman, G. D.

1970-01-01

Thin sections of Streptococcus faecalis (ATCC 9790) starved of one essential amino acid (threonine or valine) initially show rapid increases in (i) cell wall thickness, (ii) the apparent size of the central nucleoid region, and (iii) mesosomal membranes. The most rapid increases in all three variables occurred during the first 1 to 2 hr of starvation. After this initial period, the rates progressively decreased over the 20-hr observation period. During threonine starvation, the mesosomal membrane that accumulated in the first hour was subsequently degraded and reached a level similar to that found in exponential-phase cells after 20 hr. With valine starvation, mesosomal membrane continued to slowly accumulate over the entire 20-hr observation period. The mesosomes of the starved cells retained the same “stalked-bag” morphology of those in exponential-phase cells. These cytological observations agree with previously published biochemical data on membrane lipid and wall content after starvation. Images PMID:4987306

Predicting kinetics of polymorphic transformations from structure mapping and coordination analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stevanović, Vladan; Trottier, Ryan; Musgrave, Charles; Therrien, Félix; Holder, Aaron; Graf, Peter

2018-03-01

To extend materials design and discovery into the space of metastable polymorphs, rapid and reliable assessment of transformation kinetics to lower energy structures is essential. Herein we focus on diffusionless polymorphic transformations and investigate routes to assess their kinetics using solely crystallographic arguments. As part of this investigation we developed a general algorithm to map crystal structures onto each other, and ascertain the low-energy (fast-kinetics) transformation pathways between them. Pathways with minimal dissociation of chemical bonds, along which the number of bonds (in ionic systems the first-shell coordination) does not decrease below that in the end structures, are shown to always be the fast-kinetics pathways. These findings enable the rapid assessment of the kinetics of polymorphic transformation and the identification of long-lived metastable structures. The utility is demonstrated on a number of transformations including those between high-pressure SnO2 phases, which lack a detailed atomic-level understanding.

Influence of parathyroid state on calcium uptake in bone

PubMed Central

LEMON, GERARD J.; BASSINGTHWAIGHTE, JAMES B.; KELLY, PATRICK J.

2010-01-01

The exchange of calcium and strontium ions in bone was studied in control dogs, dogs made hypocalcemic by parathyroidectomy, and dogs rendered hypercalcemic by injection of parathyroid hormone. After injections of tracer into the tibial nutrient artery, extraction of tracer during transcapillary passage was measured and expressed as a fraction of 1. Extraction over the first 3 min in normal dogs was 0.46 ± 0.09 (n = 6), in hypocalcemic dogs it was increased to 0.53 ± 0.07 (n = 6), and in hypercalcemic dogs it was decreased to 0.39 ± 0.07 (n = 5). Subsequent washout was less rapid than normal in hypoparathyroid dogs and more rapid than normal in hyperparathyroid dogs. We conclude from this that the immediate volume of distribution in bone (or the number of available binding sites) for strontium diminishes as the parathyroid hormone level increases. PMID:7065174

Evidence for rapid uptake of D-galacturonic acid in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae by a channel-type transport system.

PubMed

Souffriau, Ben; den Abt, Tom; Thevelein, Johan M

2012-07-30

D-Galacturonic acid is a major component of pectins but cannot be metabolized by Saccharomyces cerevisiae. It is assumed not to be taken up. We show that yeast displays surprisingly rapid low-affinity uptake of D-galacturonic acid, strongly increasing with decreasing extracellular pH and without saturation up to 1.5 M. There was no intracellular concentration above the extracellular level and transport was reversible. Among more than 160 single and multiple deletion mutants in channels and transporters, no strain was affected in D-galacturonic acid uptake. The uptake was not inhibited by any compound tested as candidate competitive inhibitor, including D-glucuronic acid, which was also transported. The characteristics of D-galacturonic acid uptake are consistent with involvement of a channel-type system, probably encoded by multiple genes. Copyright © 2012 Federation of European Biochemical Societies. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Regional changes in muscle mass following 17 weeks of bed rest

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Leblanc, Adrian D.; Schneider, Victor S.; Evans, Harlan J.; Pientok, Colette; Rowe, Roger; Spector, Elisabeth

1992-01-01

This work reports on the muscle loss and recovery after 17 wk of continuous bed rest and 8 wk of reambulation in eight normal male volunteers. Muscle changes were assessed by urinary levels of 3-methylhistidine (3-MeH), nitrogen balance, dual-photon absorptiometry (DPA), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and isokinetic muscle performance. The total body lean tissue loss during bed rest calculated from nitrogen balance was 3.9 +/- 2.1 kg. Although the total loss is minimal, DPA scans showed that nearly all of the lean tissue loss occurred in the lower limbs. Similarly, MRI muscle volume measurements showed greater percent loss in the limbs relative to the back muscles. MRI, DPA, and nitrogen balance suggest that muscle atrophy continued throughout bed rest with rapid recovery after reambulaton. Isokinetic muscle strength decreased significantly in the thigh and calf with no loss in the arms and with rapid recovery during reambulation.

Ergothioneine - a diet-derived antioxidant with therapeutic potential.

PubMed

Halliwell, Barry; Cheah, Irwin K; Tang, Richard M Y

2018-05-31

Ergothioneine is a thiol/thione molecule synthesised only by some fungi and bacteria. Nonetheless, it is avidly taken up from the diet by humans and other animals through a transporter, OCTN1, and accumulates to high levels in certain tissues. Ergothioneine is not rapidly metabolised, or excreted in urine and is present in many, if not all, human tissues and body fluids. Ergothioneine has powerful antioxidant and cytoprotective properties in vitro and there is evidence that the body may concentrate it at sites of tissue injury by raising OCTN1 levels. Decreased blood and/or plasma levels of ergothioneine have been observed in some diseases, suggesting that a deficiency could be relevant to the disease onset or progression. This brief Review explores the possible roles of ergothioneine in human health and disease. © 2018 Federation of European Biochemical Societies.

Induced resistance to the antimicrobial peptide lactoferricin B in Staphylococcus aureus.

PubMed

Samuelsen, Orjan; Haukland, Hanne H; Jenssen, Håvard; Krämer, Manuela; Sandvik, Kjersti; Ulvatne, Hilde; Vorland, Lars H

2005-06-20

This study was designed to investigate inducible intrinsic resistance against lactoferricin B in Staphylococcus aureus. Serial passage of seven S. aureus strains in medium with increasing concentrations of peptide resulted in an induced resistance at various levels in all strains. The induced resistance was unstable and decreased relatively rapidly during passages in peptide free medium but the minimum inhibitory concentration remained elevated after thirty passages. Cross-resistance to penicillin G and low-level cross-resistance to the antimicrobial peptides indolicidin and Ala(8,13,18)-magainin-II amide [corrected] was observed. No cross-resistance was observed to the human cathelicidin LL-37. In conclusion, this study shows that S. aureus has intrinsic resistance mechanisms against antimicrobial peptides that can be induced upon exposure, and that this may confer low-level cross-resistance to other antimicrobial peptides.

Choline Transport Activity Regulates Phosphatidylcholine Synthesis through Choline Transporter Hnm1 Stability*

PubMed Central

Fernández-Murray, J. Pedro; Ngo, Michael H.; McMaster, Christopher R.

2013-01-01

Choline is a precursor for the synthesis of phosphatidylcholine through the CDP-choline pathway. Saccharomyces cerevisiae expresses a single high affinity choline transporter at the plasma membrane, encoded by the HNM1 gene. We show that exposing cells to increasing levels of choline results in two different regulatory mechanisms impacting Hnm1 activity. Initial exposure to choline results in a rapid decrease in Hnm1-mediated transport at the level of transporter activity, whereas chronic exposure results in Hnm1 degradation through an endocytic mechanism that depends on the ubiquitin ligase Rsp5 and the casein kinase 1 redundant pair Yck1/Yck2. We present details of how the choline transporter is a major regulator of phosphatidylcholine synthesis. PMID:24187140

Topoisomerase activity during the heat shock response in Escherichia coli K-12.

PubMed Central

Camacho-Carranza, R; Membrillo-Hernández, J; Ramírez-Santos, J; Castro-Dorantes, J; Chagoya de Sánchez, V; Gómez-Eichelmann, M C

1995-01-01

During the upshift of temperature from 30 to 42, 45, 47, or 50 degrees C, an increase in the level of supercoiling of a reporter plasmid was observed. This increase was present in groE and dnaK mutants but was inhibited in cells treated with chloramphenicol and novobiocin. The intracellular [ATP]/[ADP] ratio increased rapidly after an upshift in temperature from 30 to 47 degrees C and then decreased to reach a level above that observed at 30 degrees C. These results suggest that gyrase and proteins synthesized during heat shock are responsible for the changes seen in plasmid supercoiling. Proteins GroE and DnaK are probably not involved in this phenomenon. PMID:7768879

Changes in mortality after the recent economic crisis in South Korea.

PubMed

Kim, Hanjoong; Song, Young Jong; Yi, Jee Jeon; Chung, Woo Jin; Nam, Chung Mo

2004-07-01

To examine the changes in all cause mortality and cause-specific mortality after the economic crisis in South Korea. Monthly mortality data for an entire country was used and intervention analysis applied to compare mortality after the crisis with mortality which would have occurred if the trends before the crisis had continued. All cause mortality began to increase about 1 year after the crisis, while cardiovascular increased immediately. Transport accidents decreased significantly during the year following the crisis and then regressed towards the pre-economic crisis level. Suicides increased rapidly and maintained an upward trend but subsequently reduced towards the pre-economic crisis level. This study has shown an evidence of a relationship between economic crisis and mortality.

Direct spectral evidence of single-axis rotation and ortho-hydrogen-assisted nuclear spin conversion of CH3F in solid para-hydrogen.

PubMed

Lee, Yuan-Pern; Wu, Yu-Jong; Hougen, Jon T

2008-09-14

Observation of two weak absorption lines from the E (K = 1) level and one intense feature from A (K = 0) for degenerate modes nu(4) and nu(6) of CH(3)F provides direct spectral evidence that CH(3)F isolated in p-H(2) rotates about only its symmetry axis, and not about the other two axes. An interaction between A and E vibrational levels caused by the partially hindered spinning rotation is proposed. Conversion of nuclear spin between A and E components of CH(3)F is rapid when p-H(2) contains some o-H(2), but becomes slow when the proportion of o-H(2) is much decreased.

Changes in Body Composition According to Age and Sex among Young Non-Diabetic Korean Adults: The Kangbuk Samsung Health Study.

PubMed

Kim, Seul Ki; Kwon, Yu Hyun; Cho, Jung Hwan; Lee, Da Young; Park, Se Eun; Oh, Hyung Geun; Park, Cheol Young; Lee, Won Young; Oh, Ki Won; Park, Sung Woo; Rhee, Eun Jung

2017-12-01

Age-related decreases in lean mass represent a serious health problem. We aimed to analyze the risks of rapid decreases in lean mass by age and sex in relatively young Korean adults during a 4-year follow-up study. A total of 65,856 non-diabetic participants (59.5% men, mean age 39.1 years) in a health screening program were subjected to bioimpedance body composition analyses and metabolic parameter analyses at baseline and after 4 years. The participants were sub-divided according to age, and additionally to six groups by age and the degree of body weight change over the 4-year period. The actual changes in body weight, lean mass, and fat mass and the percent changes over the 4-year period were assessed. The percent change in lean mass decreased and the percent change of fat mass increased with increasing age in every age and sex group. However, the annual percent decrease in lean mass and percent increase in fat mass were significantly higher among women than among men (-0.26% vs. -0.15% and 0.34% vs. 0.42%, respectively; P<0.01). Participants who were older than 50 years and had a weight loss <-5% during the 4 years had significantly greater decreases in lean mass and smaller decreases in fat mass, compared to those who were younger than 50 years. An odds ratio analysis to determine the lowest quartile of the percent change in lean mass according to age group revealed that participants older than 60 years had a significantly increased risk of a rapid decrease in the lean mass percentage (2.081; 95% confidence interval, 1.678 to 2.581). Even in this relatively young study population, the lean mass decreased significantly with age, and the risk of a rapid decrease in lean mass was higher among women than among men. Furthermore, the elderly exhibited a significantly more rapid decrease in lean mass, compared with younger participants. Copyright © 2017 Korean Endocrine Society

Interactions between the intestinal flagellates Giardia muris and Spironucleus muris and the blood parasites Babesia microti, Plasmodium yoelii and Plasmodium berghei in mice.

PubMed

Brett, S J; Cox, F E

1982-08-01

In mice infected with the intestinal flagellates Giardia muris or Spironucleus muris, together with the blood parasites Babesia microti or Plasmodium yoelii, there is a temporary decrease of flagellate cyst output coincident with the peak of the blood parasite infections, followed by a rapid return to normal levels. This decrease in cyst output is correlated with decreased numbers of trophozoites in the small intestine. The effect on S. muris is more marked than that on G. muris. Neither blood parasites has any effect on the total duration of the flagellate infection and the flagellates do not affect the blood parasites. In mice infected with G. muris or S. muris and P. berghei there is also a decrease in cyst output but this is less apparent than in infections with B. microti or P. yoelii because of the fatal nature of the P. berghei infection. It is suggested that the decrease in cyst output is probably due to changes in the contents of the small intestine or to non-specific immunological factors rather than to specific immunological changes.

Phenolic Amides Are Potent Inhibitors of De Novo Nucleotide Biosynthesis.

PubMed

Pisithkul, Tippapha; Jacobson, Tyler B; O'Brien, Thomas J; Stevenson, David M; Amador-Noguez, Daniel

2015-09-01

An outstanding challenge toward efficient production of biofuels and value-added chemicals from plant biomass is the impact that lignocellulose-derived inhibitors have on microbial fermentations. Elucidating the mechanisms that underlie their toxicity is critical for developing strategies to overcome them. Here, using Escherichia coli as a model system, we investigated the metabolic effects and toxicity mechanisms of feruloyl amide and coumaroyl amide, the predominant phenolic compounds in ammonia-pretreated biomass hydrolysates. Using metabolomics, isotope tracers, and biochemical assays, we showed that these two phenolic amides act as potent and fast-acting inhibitors of purine and pyrimidine biosynthetic pathways. Feruloyl or coumaroyl amide exposure leads to (i) a rapid buildup of 5-phosphoribosyl-1-pyrophosphate (PRPP), a key precursor in nucleotide biosynthesis, (ii) a rapid decrease in the levels of pyrimidine biosynthetic intermediates, and (iii) a long-term generalized decrease in nucleotide and deoxynucleotide levels. Tracer experiments using (13)C-labeled sugars and [(15)N]ammonia demonstrated that carbon and nitrogen fluxes into nucleotides and deoxynucleotides are inhibited by these phenolic amides. We found that these effects are mediated via direct inhibition of glutamine amidotransferases that participate in nucleotide biosynthetic pathways. In particular, feruloyl amide is a competitive inhibitor of glutamine PRPP amidotransferase (PurF), which catalyzes the first committed step in de novo purine biosynthesis. Finally, external nucleoside supplementation prevents phenolic amide-mediated growth inhibition by allowing nucleotide biosynthesis via salvage pathways. The results presented here will help in the development of strategies to overcome toxicity of phenolic compounds and facilitate engineering of more efficient microbial producers of biofuels and chemicals. Copyright © 2015, Pisithkul et al.

Phenolic Amides Are Potent Inhibitors of De Novo Nucleotide Biosynthesis

PubMed Central

Pisithkul, Tippapha; Jacobson, Tyler B.; O'Brien, Thomas J.; Stevenson, David M.

2015-01-01

An outstanding challenge toward efficient production of biofuels and value-added chemicals from plant biomass is the impact that lignocellulose-derived inhibitors have on microbial fermentations. Elucidating the mechanisms that underlie their toxicity is critical for developing strategies to overcome them. Here, using Escherichia coli as a model system, we investigated the metabolic effects and toxicity mechanisms of feruloyl amide and coumaroyl amide, the predominant phenolic compounds in ammonia-pretreated biomass hydrolysates. Using metabolomics, isotope tracers, and biochemical assays, we showed that these two phenolic amides act as potent and fast-acting inhibitors of purine and pyrimidine biosynthetic pathways. Feruloyl or coumaroyl amide exposure leads to (i) a rapid buildup of 5-phosphoribosyl-1-pyrophosphate (PRPP), a key precursor in nucleotide biosynthesis, (ii) a rapid decrease in the levels of pyrimidine biosynthetic intermediates, and (iii) a long-term generalized decrease in nucleotide and deoxynucleotide levels. Tracer experiments using 13C-labeled sugars and [15N]ammonia demonstrated that carbon and nitrogen fluxes into nucleotides and deoxynucleotides are inhibited by these phenolic amides. We found that these effects are mediated via direct inhibition of glutamine amidotransferases that participate in nucleotide biosynthetic pathways. In particular, feruloyl amide is a competitive inhibitor of glutamine PRPP amidotransferase (PurF), which catalyzes the first committed step in de novo purine biosynthesis. Finally, external nucleoside supplementation prevents phenolic amide-mediated growth inhibition by allowing nucleotide biosynthesis via salvage pathways. The results presented here will help in the development of strategies to overcome toxicity of phenolic compounds and facilitate engineering of more efficient microbial producers of biofuels and chemicals. PMID:26070680

Polygonatum sibiricum rhizome promotes sleep by regulating non-rapid eye movement and GABAergic/serotonergic receptors in rodent models.

PubMed

Jo, Kyungae; Suh, Hyung Joo; Choi, Hyeon-Son

2018-05-29

The aim of this study is to investigate the sleep-promoting effect of a water extract of the Polygonatum sibiricum rhizome (PSE) in rodent models. PSE contained oleamide (0.10 mg/g extract) and glyceryl monolinoleate (0.17 mg/g extract), which are recognized as sleep-promoting substances. In pentobarbital-induced sleep model at hypnotic level, PSE (160 mg/kg) administration significantly decreased sleep latency time by 29% (2.7 min) and increased sleep duration time by 70% (68.4 min) compared with the normal control (3.8 min and 40.7 min, respectively). In the electroencephalography (EEG) analysis of rats, PSE-mediated sleep promotion accompanied the change of sleep architecture including increase of non-rapid eye movement (NREM) and decrease of REM. This sleep promoting effect was more obvious in caffeine-induced awakening model; total sleep time was increased by 40% along with increased NREM by PSE treatment at 160 mg/kg. In addition, PSE significantly increased the protein and mRNA levels of GABA A -R2 and 5-HT1A receptor, the major sleep-related neurotransmitter receptors. Furthermore, glyceryl monolinoleate and oleamide effectively bound to GABA A receptor in a competitive binding assay. These results indicate that PSE-mediated sleep-promoting effect is associated with the extension of NREM and upregulation of GABA A -R2 and 5-HT1A, and is mediated by binding to the GABA A receptor in vertebrate models. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS.

Phenolic amides are potent inhibitors of De Novo nucleotide biosynthesis

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

Pisithkul, Tippapha; Jacobson, Tyler B.; O'Brien, Thomas J.

An outstanding challenge toward efficient production of biofuels and value-added chemicals from plant biomass is the impact that lignocellulose-derived inhibitors have on microbial fermentations. Elucidating the mechanisms that underlie their toxicity is critical for developing strategies to overcome them. Here, using Escherichia coli as a model system, we investigated the metabolic effects and toxicity mechanisms of feruloyl amide and coumaroyl amide, the predominant phenolic compounds in ammonia-pretreated biomass hydrolysates. Using metabolomics, isotope tracers, and biochemical assays, we showed that these two phenolic amides act as potent and fast-acting inhibitors of purine and pyrimidine biosynthetic pathways. Feruloyl or coumaroyl amide exposuremore » leads to (i) a rapid buildup of 5-phosphoribosyl-1-pyrophosphate (PRPP), a key precursor in nucleotide biosynthesis, (ii) a rapid decrease in the levels of pyrimidine biosynthetic intermediates, and (iii) a long-term generalized decrease in nucleotide and deoxynucleotide levels. Tracer experiments using 13C-labeled sugars and [ 15N]ammonia demonstrated that carbon and nitrogen fluxes into nucleotides and deoxynucleotides are inhibited by these phenolic amides. We found that these effects are mediated via direct inhibition of glutamine amidotransferases that participate in nucleotide biosynthetic pathways. In particular, feruloyl amide is a competitive inhibitor of glutamine PRPP amidotransferase (PurF), which catalyzes the first committed step in de novo purine biosynthesis. Finally, external nucleoside supplementation prevents phenolic amide-mediated growth inhibition by allowing nucleotide biosynthesis via salvage pathways. Furthermore, the results presented here will help in the development of strategies to overcome toxicity of phenolic compounds and facilitate engineering of more efficient microbial producers of biofuels and chemicals.« less

Phenolic amides are potent inhibitors of De Novo nucleotide biosynthesis

DOE PAGES

Pisithkul, Tippapha; Jacobson, Tyler B.; O'Brien, Thomas J.; ...

2015-06-12

An outstanding challenge toward efficient production of biofuels and value-added chemicals from plant biomass is the impact that lignocellulose-derived inhibitors have on microbial fermentations. Elucidating the mechanisms that underlie their toxicity is critical for developing strategies to overcome them. Here, using Escherichia coli as a model system, we investigated the metabolic effects and toxicity mechanisms of feruloyl amide and coumaroyl amide, the predominant phenolic compounds in ammonia-pretreated biomass hydrolysates. Using metabolomics, isotope tracers, and biochemical assays, we showed that these two phenolic amides act as potent and fast-acting inhibitors of purine and pyrimidine biosynthetic pathways. Feruloyl or coumaroyl amide exposuremore » leads to (i) a rapid buildup of 5-phosphoribosyl-1-pyrophosphate (PRPP), a key precursor in nucleotide biosynthesis, (ii) a rapid decrease in the levels of pyrimidine biosynthetic intermediates, and (iii) a long-term generalized decrease in nucleotide and deoxynucleotide levels. Tracer experiments using 13C-labeled sugars and [ 15N]ammonia demonstrated that carbon and nitrogen fluxes into nucleotides and deoxynucleotides are inhibited by these phenolic amides. We found that these effects are mediated via direct inhibition of glutamine amidotransferases that participate in nucleotide biosynthetic pathways. In particular, feruloyl amide is a competitive inhibitor of glutamine PRPP amidotransferase (PurF), which catalyzes the first committed step in de novo purine biosynthesis. Finally, external nucleoside supplementation prevents phenolic amide-mediated growth inhibition by allowing nucleotide biosynthesis via salvage pathways. Furthermore, the results presented here will help in the development of strategies to overcome toxicity of phenolic compounds and facilitate engineering of more efficient microbial producers of biofuels and chemicals.« less

Utility of rapid database searching for quality assurance: 'detective work' in uncovering radiology coding and billing errors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Horii, Steven C.; Kim, Woojin; Boonn, William; Iyoob, Christopher; Maston, Keith; Coleman, Beverly G.

2011-03-01

When the first quarter of 2010 Department of Radiology statistics were provided to the Section Chiefs, the authors (SH, BC) were alarmed to discover that Ultrasound showed a decrease of 2.5 percent in billed examinations. This seemed to be in direct contradistinction to the experience of the ultrasound faculty members and sonographers. Their experience was that they were far busier than during the same quarter of 2009. The one exception that all acknowledged was the month of February, 2010 when several major winter storms resulted in a much decreased Hospital admission and Emergency Department visit rate. Since these statistics in part help establish priorities for capital budget items, professional and technical staffing levels, and levels of incentive salary, they are taken very seriously. The availability of a desktop, Web-based RIS database search tool developed by two of the authors (WK, WB) and built-in database functions of the ultrasound miniPACS, made it possible for us very rapidly to develop and test hypotheses for why the number of billable examinations was declining in the face of what experience told the authors was an increasing number of examinations being performed. Within a short time, we identified the major cause as errors on the part of the company retained to verify billable Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes against ultrasound reports. This information is being used going forward to recover unbilled examinations and take measures to reduce or eliminate the types of coding errors that resulted in the problem.

Effects of cholinesterase inhibitors on the activities and protein levels of cholinesterases in the cerebrospinal fluid of patients with Alzheimer's disease: a review of recent clinical studies.

PubMed

Darreh-Shori, T; Soininen, H

2010-02-01

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease characterized by cognitive decline associated with a deficit in cholinergic function. Inhibitors of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and/or butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE), such as donepezil, galantamine or rivastigmine, are widely prescribed as symptomatic treatments for AD. These agents exhibit a wide variation in their pharmacological properties. Here we review clinical data from 1998 to 2009 investigating the effect of different cholinesterase inhibitor treatments on the levels and activities of cholinesterases in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of AD patients. These studies suggest that treatment with rapidly-reversible cholinesterase inhibitors (e.g. donepezil, galantamine, tacrine) are associated with marked and significant upregulation of AChE activities and protein levels in the CSF of AD patients. In contrast, pseudo-irreversible cholinesterase inhibition (e.g. rivastigmine) is associated with a significant decrease in both CSF AChE and BuChE activities, with no upregulation of CSF protein levels. Additionally, donepezil is associated with a decrease in the level of the AChE-R isoform relative to the synaptic AChE-S isoform, whereas rivastigmine seems to increase this ratio. These findings suggest that these agents exert different effects on CSF cholinesterases. The clinical effects of these pharmacological differences are yet to be fully established.

Levels and patterns of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in soils after forest fires in South Korea.

PubMed

Kim, Eun Jung; Choi, Sung-Deuk; Chang, Yoon-Seok

2011-11-01

To investigate the influence of biomass burning on the levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in soils, temporal trends and profiles of 16 US Environmental Protection Agency priority PAHs were studied in soil and ash samples collected 1, 5, and 9 months after forest fires in South Korea. The levels of PAHs in the burnt soils 1 month after the forest fires (mean, 1,200 ng/g dry weight) were comparable with those of contaminated urban soils. However, 5 and 9 months after the forest fires, these levels decreased considerably to those of general forest soils (206 and 302 ng/g, respectively). The burnt soils and ash were characterized by higher levels of light PAHs with two to four rings, reflecting direct emissions from biomass burning. Five and 9 months after the forest fires, the presence of naphthalene decreased considerably, which indicates that light PAHs were rapidly volatilized or degraded from the burnt soils. The temporal trend and pattern of PAHs clearly suggests that soils in the forest-fire region can be contaminated by PAHs directly emitted from biomass burning. However, the fire-affected soils can return to the pre-fire conditions over time through the washout and wind dissipation of the ash with high content of PAHs as well as vaporization or degradation of light PAHs.

Synoptic characteristics of heavy snowfalls at Busan of Korea caused by polar lows over the East/Japan Sea

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Choi, Jae-Won; Cha, Yumi; Kim, Hae-Dong

2018-02-01

The results of the present study prove that snowfall occurred due to the polar low (PL) in the Korean Peninsula and six cases of snowfall exceeding a snow depth of 2 cm over the past 16 years in Busan, South Korea. A strong northwesterly air current with a cold outbreak at the lower level passed through the Korean Peninsula and penetrated into the East/Japan Sea causing the generation and characteristics of a PL. However, a northeasterly air current due to a synoptic low (SL) in East Japan approached the east coast via the East/Japan Sea, which generated a wind field with mesoscale cyclonic circulation. In the center of this cyclone, a strong positive vorticity region was revealed from the lower level to the upper level. The air temperature in the center of the PL was warmer than the surrounding areas at the lower level. As the PL developed and the air temperature decreased, a rapid tropopause drop followed due to the effect of the cold core along with the cutoff low at the mid-level or the higher level. As a result, the stratification became more unstable. The PL moved into Busan as the cold core at the upper level rapidly moved to the lower latitudes, which formed an unstable region around Busan. The PL decayed because the cutoff low, the cold core, and the positive vorticity region at the upper level quickly moved to the east, thereby causing the stratification to stabilize. Also, because the approach to the Japanese Archipelago caused an increase in surface friction, the original structure could no longer be maintained.

Individual Differences in AMY1 Gene Copy Number, Salivary α-Amylase Levels, and the Perception of Oral Starch

PubMed Central

Mandel, Abigail L.; Peyrot des Gachons, Catherine; Plank, Kimberly L.; Alarcon, Suzanne; Breslin, Paul A. S.

2010-01-01

Background The digestion of dietary starch in humans is initiated by salivary α-amylase, an endo-enzyme that hydrolyzes starch into maltose, maltotriose and larger oligosaccharides. Salivary amylase accounts for 40 to 50% of protein in human saliva and rapidly alters the physical properties of starch. Importantly, the quantity and enzymatic activity of salivary amylase show significant individual variation. However, linking variation in salivary amylase levels with the oral perception of starch has proven difficult. Furthermore, the relationship between copy number variations (CNVs) in the AMY1 gene, which influence salivary amylase levels, and starch viscosity perception has not been explored. Principal Findings Here we demonstrate that saliva containing high levels of amylase has sufficient activity to rapidly hydrolyze a viscous starch solution in vitro. Furthermore, we show with time-intensity ratings, which track the digestion of starch during oral manipulation, that individuals with high amylase levels report faster and more significant decreases in perceived starch viscosity than people with low salivary amylase levels. Finally, we demonstrate that AMY1 CNVs predict an individual's amount and activity of salivary amylase and thereby, ultimately determine their perceived rate of oral starch viscosity thinning. Conclusions By linking genetic variation and its consequent salivary enzymatic differences to the perceptual sequellae of these variations, we show that AMY1 copy number relates to salivary amylase concentration and enzymatic activity level, which, in turn, account for individual variation in the oral perception of starch viscosity. The profound individual differences in salivary amylase levels and salivary activity may contribute significantly to individual differences in dietary starch intake and, consequently, to overall nutritional status. PMID:20967220

Hematology, blood typing, and immunology of the neonatal foal.

PubMed

Becht, J L; Semrad, S D

1985-04-01

Hematologic parameters change during the first 10 days of life. Erythrocytes increase in number but decrease in size and hemoglobin concentration. The PCV, hemoglobin, and platelet count also decrease. Total blood and plasma volume and, to lesser extent, erythrocyte volume decrease. Normal neonatal foals may have immature neutrophils (up to 5 per cent bands), and their early rapid rise in neutrophil numbers may be accompanied by a lymphopenia. Monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils are all absent or low initially. Infectious processes can cause rapid and variable changes in the leukogram. However, elevation of fibrinogen levels may lag behind the development of an inflammatory process, and this parameter should not be relied on for early evidence of infection. After 12 hours of life, there is generally a decrease in serum concentrations of Na, Cl, iron, creatinine, BUN, plasma protein, and possibly calcium. LDH, SAP, P, bilirubin, and glucose concentrations are all higher in foals than in mature horses. Creatinine may actually be elevated during the first 12 hours of life and then decreases. If azotemia, hypochloremia, hyponatremia, and hyperkalemia are found, ruptured bladder with uroperitoneum should be suspected. The creatinine concentration is preferable to BUN determination for diagnosis of this condition. Blood typing is useful for diagnosis of NI, determination of blood compatability between donor and transfusion recipient, and for verification of parentage for breed registries. Several techniques are available. Several tests are available for evaluation of the foal's immunoglobulin levels and confirmation of passive antibody transfer. Because foals suffering from FPT are more predisposed to infections, their immunoglobulin status should be determined as early as possible so that additional colostrum or plasma can be administered as needed. Neonatal isoerythrolysis is uncommon but is an important immunologic syndrome that often results in a fatal hemolytic crisis. If one suspects the condition may be likely, the optimal time for testing the mare is during the last 2 weeks of gestation. If the foal's dam is shown to have alloantibodies against a panel of known erythrocyte alloantigens, prevention is possible by feeding colostrum from another mare. If a foal develops NI, further colostrum ingestion from the dam must be prevented. Good nursing care, minimizing stress, and adequate frequent feedings are essential; prophylactic antibiotics should be used, and transfusion may be necessary.

Inhibition of sarcolemmal FAT/CD36 by sulfo-N-succinimidyl oleate rapidly corrects metabolism and restores function in the diabetic heart following hypoxia/reoxygenation

PubMed Central

Mansor, Latt S.; Sousa Fialho, Maria da Luz; Yea, Georgina; Coumans, Will A.; West, James A.; Kerr, Matthew; Carr, Carolyn A.; Luiken, Joost J.F.P.; Glatz, Jan F.C.; Evans, Rhys D.; Griffin, Julian L.; Tyler, Damian J.; Clarke, Kieran

2017-01-01

Aims The type 2 diabetic heart oxidizes more fat and less glucose, which can impair metabolic flexibility and function. Increased sarcolemmal fatty acid translocase (FAT/CD36) imports more fatty acid into the diabetic myocardium, feeding increased fatty acid oxidation and elevated lipid deposition. Unlike other metabolic modulators that target mitochondrial fatty acid oxidation, we proposed that pharmacologically inhibiting fatty acid uptake, as the primary step in the pathway, would provide an alternative mechanism to rebalance metabolism and prevent lipid accumulation following hypoxic stress. Methods and results Hearts from type 2 diabetic and control male Wistar rats were perfused in normoxia, hypoxia and reoxygenation, with the FAT/CD36 inhibitor sulfo-N-succinimidyl oleate (SSO) infused 4 min before hypoxia. SSO infusion into diabetic hearts decreased the fatty acid oxidation rate by 29% and myocardial triglyceride concentration by 48% compared with untreated diabetic hearts, restoring fatty acid metabolism to control levels following hypoxia-reoxygenation. SSO infusion increased the glycolytic rate by 46% in diabetic hearts during hypoxia, increased pyruvate dehydrogenase activity by 53% and decreased lactate efflux rate by 56% compared with untreated diabetic hearts during reoxygenation. In addition, SSO treatment of diabetic hearts increased intermediates within the second span of the Krebs cycle, namely fumarate, oxaloacetate, and the FAD total pool. The cardiac dysfunction in diabetic hearts following decreased oxygen availability was prevented by SSO-infusion prior to the hypoxic stress. Infusing SSO into diabetic hearts increased rate pressure product by 60% during hypoxia and by 32% following reoxygenation, restoring function to control levels. Conclusions Diabetic hearts have limited metabolic flexibility and cardiac dysfunction when stressed, which can be rapidly rectified by reducing fatty acid uptake with the FAT/CD36 inhibitor, SSO. This novel therapeutic approach not only reduces fat oxidation but also lipotoxicity, by targeting the primary step in the fatty acid metabolism pathway. PMID:28419197

Regulation of the endothelin-1 transmembrane signaling pathway: the potential role of agonist-induced desensitization in the coronary artery of the rapid ventricular pacing-overdrive dog model of heart failure.

PubMed

Calderone, A; Rouleau, J L; de Champlain, J; Bélichard, P; Stewart, D J

1993-08-01

This study examined the potential role of ET-1 and the contribution of protein kinase C (PKC) in the desensitization of the ET-1 transmembrane signaling pathway in the left circumflex coronary artery (CCA) of a dog model of congestive heart failure (CHF). In the CCA of the rapid ventricular pacing-overdrive dog model of CHF, elevated plasma endothelin levels were associated with a decrease in the basal accumulation of inositol phosphates and ET-1 mediated activation of phosphatidylinositol (PI) turnover (P < 0.05). To assess whether elevated plasma ET-1 levels may have contributed to the diminished ET-1 responsiveness in the heart failure dogs, ET-1 generation of inositol phosphates was measured following a one hour pretreatment of normal coronary artery rings with 0.1 nM ET-1. As compared to non-treated rings, ET-1 pretreatment resulted in a 33% decrease of ET-1 (10 nM) production of inositol phosphates. To evaluate the role of PKC in this process, normal coronary rings pretreated for a period of one hour with the phorbol ester, phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA, 1 microM), resulted in a similar attenuation (36%) of ET-1 production of inositol phosphates. In the presence of the protein kinase C inhibitor staurosporine, both the agonist and phorbol ester induced decreases in ET-1 mediated PI turnover were reversed. Staurosporine even potentiated (75%) ET-1 induced PI turnover despite ET-1 and PMA pretreatments. These results suggest that agonist-induced desensitization of ET-1 mediated PI turnover can occur and is at least one of the possible mechanisms contributing to the desensitization of the ET-1 transmembrane signaling pathway in the pacing-overdrive model of heart failure in the dog.

Response of the EIA ionosphere to the 7-8 May 2005 geomagnetic storm

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aggarwal, Malini; Joshi, H. P.; Iyer, K. N.; Kwak, Y. S.

2013-08-01

In this paper, response of low latitude ionosphere to a moderate geomagnetic storm of 7-8 May 2005 (SSC: 1920 UT on 7 May with Sym-H minimum, ∼-112 nT around 1600 UT on 8 May) has been investigated using the GPS measurements from a near EIA crest region, Rajkot (Geog. 22.29°N, 70.74°E, Geomag.14°), India. We found a decrease in total electron content (TEC) in 12 h after the onset of the storm, an increase during and after 6 h of Sym-H deep minimum with a decrease below its usual-day level on the second day during the recovery phase of the storm. On 8 May, an increase of TEC is observed after sunset and during post-midnight hours (maximum up to 170%) with the formation of ionospheric plasma bubbles followed by a nearly simultaneous onset of scintillations at L-band frequencies following the time of rapid decrease in Sym-H index (-30 nT/h around 1300 UT).

Analysis of hop-derived terpenoids in beer and evaluation of their behavior using the stir bar-sorptive extraction method with GC-MS.

PubMed

Kishimoto, Toru; Wanikawa, Akira; Kagami, Noboru; Kawatsura, Katsuyuki

2005-06-15

Hop aroma components, which mainly comprise terpenoids, contribute to the character of beers. However, pretreatments are necessary before analyzing these components because of their trace levels and complicated matrixes. Here, the stir bar-sorptive extraction (SBSE) method was used to detect and quantify many terpenoids simultaneously from small samples. This simple technique showed low coefficients of variation, high accuracy, and low detection limits. An investigation of the behavior of terpenoids identified two distinct patterns of decreasing concentration during wort boiling. The first, which was seen in myrcene and linalool, involved a rapid decrease that was best fitted by a quadratic curve. The second, which was observed in beta-eudesmol, humulene, humulene epoxide I, beta-farnesene, caryophyllene, and geraniol, involved a gentle linear decrease. Conversely, the concentration of beta-damascenone increased after boiling. As the aroma composition depended on the hop variety, we also examined the relationship between terpenoid content and sensory analysis in beer.

Duration-dependent effect of exposure to static electric field on learning and memory ability in mice.

PubMed

Xu, Yaqian; Gu, Xiaoyu; Di, Guoqing

2018-06-07

With the rapid development of ultra-high-voltage direct-current (UHVDC) transmission, the strength of environmental static electric field (SEF) around UHVDC transmission lines increased substantially, which has aroused widely public attention on the potential health effects of SEF. In this study, the effect of SEF exposure on learning and memory ability was investigated. Institute of Cancer Research mice were exposed to 56.3 kV/m SEF for a short term (7 days) or long term (49 days). Behaviors in the Morris water maze (MWM) test, hippocampal neurotransmitter contents, and oxidative stress indicators were examined. Results showed that short-term SEF exposure significantly prolonged escape latency and decreased the number of platform-site crossovers, as well as decreased the time spent in the target quadrant in the MWM test. Meanwhile, serotonin level and the ratio of glutamate level to γ-aminobutyric acid level changed significantly. Besides, malondialdehyde content and glutathione peroxidase activity increased significantly, while superoxide dismutase activity decreased significantly. After long-term SEF exposure, all indices above showed no significant differences between the SEF and sham exposure groups. These data indicated that short-term exposure to 56.3 kV/m SEF could cause abnormal neurotransmitter levels and oxidative stress in the hippocampus, which led to the decline in learning and memory ability. Under the condition of long-term exposure, the SEF-induced disturbances in neurotransmitter contents and redox balance were offset by the compensatory responses of mice, and thus, the learning and memory ability returned to normal level. The temporary and reversible decline in learning and memory ability was only a common biological effect of SEF rather than a health hazard.

Serum creatine kinase isoenzymes in children with osteogenesis imperfecta.

PubMed

D'Eufemia, P; Finocchiaro, R; Zambrano, A; Lodato, V; Celli, L; Finocchiaro, S; Persiani, P; Turchetti, A; Celli, M

2017-01-01

This study evaluates serum creatine kinase isoenzyme activity in children with osteogenesis imperfecta to determine its usefulness as a biochemical marker during treatment with bisphosphonate. The changes of creatine kinase (CK) isoenzyme activity during and after discontinuation therapy were observed. These results could be useful in addressing over-treatment risk prevention. The brain isoenzyme of creatine kinase (CKbb) is highly expressed in mature osteoclasts during osteoclastogenesis, thus plays an important role in bone resorption. We previously identified high serum CKbb levels in 18 children with osteogenesis imperfect (OI) type 1 treated for 1 year with bisphosphonate (neridronate). In the present study, serum CK isoenzymes were evaluated in the same children with continuous versus discontinued neridronate treatment over a further 2-year follow-up period. This study included 18 children with OI type 1, 12 with continued (group A) and 6 with ceased (group B) neridronate treatment. Auxological data, serum biochemical markers of bone metabolism, bone mineral density z-score, and serum total CK and isoenzyme activities were determined in both groups. Serum CKbb was progressively and significantly increased in group A (p < 0.004) but rapidly decreased to undetectable levels in group B. In both groups, the cardiac muscle creatine kinase isoenzyme (CKmb) showed a marked decrease, while serum C-terminal telopeptide (CTx) levels were almost unchanged. This study provides evidence of the cumulative effect of neridronate administration in increasing serum CKbb levels and the reversible effect after its discontinuation. This approach could be employed for verifying the usefulness of serum CKbb as a biochemical marker in patients receiving prolonged bisphosphonate treatment. Moreover, the decreased serum CKmb levels suggest a systemic effect of these drugs.

Risks and Benefits of Rapid Clozapine Titration.

PubMed

Lochhead, Jeannie D; Nelson, Michele A; Schneider, Alan L

2016-05-18

Clozapine is often considered the gold standard for the treatment of schizophrenia. Clinical guidelines suggest a gradual titration over 2 weeks to reduce the risks of adverse events such as seizures, hypotension, agranulocytosis, and myocarditis. The slow titration often delays time to therapeutic response. This raises the question of whether, in some patients, it may be safe to use a more rapid clozapine titration. The following case illustrates the potential risks associated with the use of multiple antipsychotics and rapid clozapine titration. We present the case of a young man with schizophrenia who developed life threatening neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) during rapid clozapine titration and treatment with multiple antipsychotics. We were unable to find another case in the literature of NMS associated with rapid clozapine titration. This case is meant to urge clinicians to carefully evaluate the risks and benefits of rapid clozapine titration, and to encourage researchers to further evaluate the safety of rapid clozapine titration. Rapid clozapine titration has implications for decreasing health care costs associated with prolonged hospitalizations, and decreasing the emotional suffering associated with uncontrolled symptoms of psychosis. Clozapine is considered the most effective antipsychotic available thus efforts should focus on developing strategies that would allow for safest and most efficient use of clozapine to encourage its utilization for treatment resistance schizophrenia.

Monitoring fungal growth on brown rice grains using rapid and non-destructive hyperspectral imaging.

PubMed

Siripatrawan, U; Makino, Y

2015-04-16

This research aimed to develop a rapid, non-destructive, and accurate method based on hyperspectral imaging (HSI) for monitoring spoilage fungal growth on stored brown rice. Brown rice was inoculated with a non-pathogenic strain of Aspergillus oryzae and stored at 30 °C and 85% RH. Growth of A. oryzae on rice was monitored using viable colony counts, expressed as colony forming units per gram (CFU/g). The fungal development was observed using scanning electron microscopy. The HSI system was used to acquire reflectance images of the samples covering the visible and near-infrared (NIR) wavelength range of 400-1000 nm. Unsupervised self-organizing map (SOM) was used to visualize data classification of different levels of fungal infection. Partial least squares (PLS) regression was used to predict fungal growth on rice grains from the HSI reflectance spectra. The HSI spectral signals decreased with increasing colony counts, while conserving similar spectral pattern during the fungal growth. When integrated with SOM, the proposed HSI method could be used to classify rice samples with different levels of fungal infection without sample manipulation. Moreover, HSI was able to rapidly identify infected rice although the samples showed no symptoms of fungal infection. Based on PLS regression, the coefficient of determination was 0.97 and root mean square error of prediction was 0.39 log (CFU/g), demonstrating that the HSI technique was effective for prediction of fungal infection in rice grains. The ability of HSI to detect fungal infection at early stage would help to prevent contaminated rice grains from entering the food chain. This research provides scientific information on the rapid, non-destructive, and effective fungal detection system for rice grains. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Medical Rapid Response in Psychiatry: Reasons for Activation and Immediate Outcome.

PubMed

Manu, Peter; Loewenstein, Kristy; Girshman, Yankel J; Bhatia, Padam; Barnes, Maira; Whelan, Joseph; Solderitch, Victoria A; Rogozea, Liliana; McManus, Marybeth

2015-12-01

Rapid response teams are used to improve the recognition of acute deteriorations in medical and surgical settings. They are activated by abnormal physiological parameters, symptoms or clinical concern, and are believed to decrease hospital mortality rates. We evaluated the reasons for activation and the outcome of rapid response interventions in a 222-bed psychiatric hospital in New York City using data obtained at the time of all activations from January through November, 2012. The primary outcome was the admission rate to a medical or surgical unit for each of the main reasons for activation. The 169 activations were initiated by nursing staff (78.7 %) and psychiatrists (13 %) for acute changes in condition (64.5 %), abnormal physiological parameters (27.2 %) and non-specified concern (8.3 %). The most common reasons for activation were chest pain (14.2 %), fluctuating level of consciousness (9.5 %), hypertension (9.5 %), syncope or fall (8.9 %), hypotension (8.3 %), dyspnea (7.7 %) and seizures (5.9 %). The rapid response team transferred 127 (75.2 %) patients to the Emergency Department and 46 (27.2 %) were admitted to a medical or surgical unit. The admission rates were statistically similar for acute changes in condition, abnormal physiological parameters, and clinicians' concern. In conclusion, a majority of rapid response activations in a self-standing psychiatric hospital were initiated by nursing staff for changes in condition, rather than for policy-specified abnormal physiological parameters. The findings suggest that a rapid response system may empower psychiatric nurses to use their clinical skills to identify patients requiring urgent transfer to a general hospital.

A systematic review of the clinical, public health and cost-effectiveness of rapid diagnostic tests for the detection and identification of bacterial intestinal pathogens in faeces and food.

PubMed

Abubakar, I; Irvine, L; Aldus, C F; Wyatt, G M; Fordham, R; Schelenz, S; Shepstone, L; Howe, A; Peck, M; Hunter, P R

2007-09-01

To determine the diagnostic accuracy of tests for the rapid diagnosis of bacterial food poisoning in clinical and public health practice and to estimate the cost-effectiveness of these assays in a hypothetical population in order to inform policy on the use of these tests. Studies evaluating diagnostic accuracy of rapid tests were retrieved using electronic databases and handsearching reference lists and key journals. Hospital laboratories and test manufacturers were contacted for cost data, and clinicians involved in the care of patients with food poisoning were invited to discuss the conclusions of this review using the nominal group technique. A systematic review of the current medical literature on assays used for the rapid diagnosis of bacterial food poisoning was carried out. Specific organisms under review were Salmonella, Campylobacter, Escherichia coli O157, Staphylococcus aureus, Clostridium perfringens and Bacillus cereus. Data extraction was undertaken using standardised data extraction forms. Where a sufficient number of studies evaluating comparable tests were identified, meta-analysis was performed. A decision analytic model was developed, using effectiveness data from the review and cost data from hospitals and manufacturers, which contributed to an assessment of the cost-effectiveness of rapid tests in a hypothetical UK population. Finally, diagnostic accuracy and cost-effectiveness results were presented to a focus group of GPs, microbiologists and consultants in communicable disease control, to assess professional opinion on the use of rapid tests in the diagnosis of food poisoning. Good test performance levels were observed with rapid test methods, especially for polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays. The estimated levels of diagnostic accuracy using the area under the curve of the summary receiver operating characteristic curve was very high. Indeed, although traditional culture is the natural reference test to use for comparative statistical analysis, on many occasions the rapid test outperforms culture, detecting additional 'truly' positive cases of food-borne illness. The significance of these additional positives requires further investigation. Economic modelling suggests that adoption of rapid tests in combination with routine culture is unlikely to be cost-effective, however, as the cost of rapid technologies decreases; total replacement with rapid technologies may be feasible. Despite the relatively poor quality of reporting of studies evaluating rapid detection methods, the reviewed evidence shows that PCR for Campylobacter, Salmonella and E. coli O157 is potentially very successful in identifying pathogens, possibly detecting more than the number currently reported using culture. Less is known about the benefits of testing for B. cereus, C. perfringens and S. aureus. Further investigation is needed on how clinical outcomes may be altered if test results are available more quickly and at a greater precision than in the current practice of bacterial culture.

Reduction in cab and psb A RNA transcripts in response to supplementary ultraviolet-B radiation.

PubMed

Jordan, B R; Chow, W S; Strid, A; Anderson, J M

1991-06-17

The cab and psb A RNA transcript levels have been determined in Pisum sativum leaves exposed to supplementary ultraviolet-B radiation. The nuclear-encoded cab transcripts are reduced to low levels after only 4 h of UV-B treatment and are undetectable after 3 days exposure. In contrast, the chloroplast-encoded psb A transcript levels, although reduced, are present for at least 3 days. After short periods of UV-B exposure (4 h or 8 h), followed by recovery under control conditions, cab RNA transcript levels had not recovered after 1 day, but were re-established to ca. 60% of control levels after 2 more days. Increased irradiance during exposure to UV-B reduced the effect upon cab transcripts, although the decrease was still substantial. These results indicate rapid changes in the cellular regulation of gene expression in response to supplementary UV-B and suggest increased UV-B radiation may have profound consequences for future productivity of sensitive crop species.

Nitrogen conversion under rapid pyrolysis of two types of aquatic biomass and corresponding blends with coal.

PubMed

Yuan, Shuai; Chen, Xue-li; Li, Wei-feng; Liu, Hai-feng; Wang, Fu-chen

2011-11-01

Rapid pyrolysis of two types of aquatic biomass (blue-green algae and water hyacinth), and their blends with two coals (bituminous and anthracite) was carried out in a high-frequency furnace. Nitrogen conversions during rapid pyrolysis of the two biomass and the interactions between the biomass and coals on nitrogen conversions were investigated. Results show that little nitrogen retained in char after the biomass pyrolysis, and NH(3) yields were higher than HCN. During co-pyrolysis of biomass and coal, interactions between biomass and coal decreased char-N yields and increased volatile-N yields, but the total yields of NH(3)+HCN in volatile-N were decreased in which HCN formations were decreased consistently, while NH(3) formations were only decreased in the high-temperature range but promoted in the low-temperature range. Interactions between blue-green algae and coals are stronger than those between water hyacinth and coal, and interactions between biomass and bituminous are stronger than those between biomass and anthracite. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Pressure overload stimulated cardiac hypertrophy leads to a rapid decrease in the mRNA for creatine kinase

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

Boheler, K.; Popovich, B.; Dillmann, W.H.

1987-05-01

Cardiac hypertrophy (CH) leads to a decrease in creatine kinase (CK) enzymatic activity. To determine if the mRNA for CK also decreases with CH, they performed the following studies. Cardiac RNA was isolated from rats subjected to either abdominal aortic stenosis (AS) or sham surgery. Through Northern blot analysis, total cardiac RNA was quantitated with a CK specific /sup 32/P-labelled cDNA clone. At 3 and 8 days post-constriction, the mRNA for CK decreases by 54.6 +/- 7% and 65.3 +/- 18% respectively, whereas the heart weight increases by 19% and 37% relative to controls. Further studies indicate that CK mRNAmore » also decreases by 41.8% in hypothyroid rats (Tx) but decreases by a total of 68.1% in Tx rats subjected to 8 days of AS. Pressure overload stimulated CH leads to a rapid decrease in CK mRNA in normal and Tx rats. This CK mRNA decrease may account for the decreased efficiency of contraction seen in CH.« less

Quantitative controls on location and architecture of carbonate depositional sequences: Upper miocene, cabo de gata region, SE Spain

USGS Publications Warehouse

Franseen, E.K.; Goldstein, R.H.; Farr, M.R.

1997-01-01

Sequence stratigraphy, pinning-point relative sea-level curves, and magnetostratigraphy provide the quantitative data necessary to understand how rates of sea-level change and different substrate paleoslopes are dominant controls on accumulation rate, carbonate depositional sequence location, and internal architecture. Five third-order (1-10 my) and fourth-order (0.1-1.0 my) upper Miocene carbonate depositional sequences (DS1A, DS1B, DS2, DS3, TCC) formed with superimposed higher-frequency sea-level cycles in an archipelago setting in SE Spain. Overall, our study indicates when areas of high substrate slope (> 15??) are in shallow water, independent of climate, the location and internal architecture of carbonate deposits are not directly linked to sea-level position but, instead, are controlled by location of gently sloping substrates and processes of bypass. In contrast, if carbonate sediments are generated where substrates of low slope ( 15.6 cm/ky to ??? 2 cm/ky and overall relative sea level rose at rates of 17-21.4 cm/ky. Higher frequency sea-level rates were about 111 to more than 260 cm/ky, producing onlapping, fining- (deepening-) upward cycles. Decreasing accumulation rates resulted from decreasing surface area for shallow-water sediment production, drowning of shallow-water substrates, and complex sediment dispersal related to the archipelago setting. Typical systems tract and parasequence development should not be expected in "bypass ramp" settings; facies of onlapping strata do not track base level and are likely to be significantly different compared to onlapping strata associated with coastal onlap. Basal and upper DS2 reef megabreccias (indicating the transition from cool to warmer climatic conditions) were eroded from steep upslope positions and redeposited downslope onto areas of gentle substrate during rapid sea-level falls (> 22.7 cm/ky) of short duration. Such rapid sea-level falls and presence of steep slopes are not conducive to formation of forced regressive systems tracts composed of down-stepping reef clinoforms. The DS3 reefal platform formed where shallow water coincided with gently sloping substrates created by earlier deposition. Slow progradation (0.39-1.45 km/my) is best explained by the lack of an extensive bank top, progressively falling sea level, and low productivity resulting from siliciclastic debris and excess nutrients shed from nearby volcanic islands. Although DS3 strata were deposited during a third-order relative sea-level cycle, a typical transgressive systems tract is not recognizable, indicating that the initial relative rise in sea level was too rapid (??? 19 cm/ky). Downstepping reefs, forming a forced regressive systems tract, were deposited during the relative sea-level fall at the end of DS3, indicating that relatively slow rates of fall (10 cm/ky or less) over favorable paleoslope conditions are conducive to generation of forced regressive systems tracts consisting of downstepping reef clinoforms. The TCC sequence consists of four shallow-water sedimentary cycles that were deposited during a 400 ky to 100 ky time span. Such shallow-water cycles, typical of many platforms, form only where shallow water intersects gently sloping substrates. The relative thicknesses of cycles (< 2 m to 15 m thick), magnitudes of relative sea-level fluctuations associated with each cycle (25-30 m), high rates of relative sea-level fluctuations (minimum of 25-120 cm/ky), and the widespread distribution of similar TCC cycles in the Mediterranean and elsewhere are supportive of a glacio-eustatic

Quantitative controls on location and architecture of carbonate depositional sequences: upper miocene, cabo de gata region, se Spain

USGS Publications Warehouse

Franseen, E.K.; Goldstein, R.H.; Farr, M.R.

1998-01-01

Sequence stratigraphy, pinning-point relative sea-level curves, and magnetostratigraphy provide the quantitative data necessary to understand how rates of sea-level change and different substrate paleoslopes are dominant controls on accumulation rate, carbonate depositional sequence location, and internal architecture. Five third-order (1-10 my) and fourth-order (0.1-1.0 my) upper Miocene carbonate depositional sequences (DS1A, DS1B, DS2, DS3, TCC) formed with superimposed higher-frequency sea-level cycles in an archipelago setting in SE Spain. Overall, our study indicates when areas of high substrate slope (> 15??) are in shallow water, independent of climate, the location and internal architecture of carbonate deposits are not directly linked to sea-level position but, instead, are controlled by location of gently sloping substrates and processes of bypass. In contrast, if carbonate sediments are generated where substrates of low slope ( 15.6 cm/ky to ??? 2 cm/ky and overall relative sea level rose at rates of 17-21.4 cm/ky. Higher frequency sea-level rates were about 111 to more than 260 cm/ky, producing onlapping, fining- (deepening-) upward cycles. Decreasing accumulation rates resulted from decreasing surface area for shallow-water sediment production, drowning of shallow-water substrates, and complex sediment dispersal related to the archipelago setting. Typical systems tract and parasequence development should not be expected in "bypass ramp" settings; facies of onlapping strata do not track base level and are likely to be significantly different compared to onlapping strata associated with coastal onlap. Basal and upper DS2 reef megabreccias (indicating the transition from cool to warmer climatic conditions) were eroded from steep upslope positions and redeposited downslope onto areas of gentle substrate during rapid sea-level falls (> 22.7 cm/ky) of short duration. Such rapid sea-level falls and presence of steep slopes are not conducive to formation of forced regressive systems tracts composed of downstepping reef clinoforms. The DS3 reefal platform formed where shallow water coincided with gently sloping substrates created by earlier deposition. Slow progradation (0.39-1.45 km/my) is best explained by the lack of an extensive bank top, progressively falling sea level, and low productivity resulting from siliciclastic debris and excess nutrients shed from nearby volcanic islands. Although DS3 strata were deposited during a third-order relative sea-level cycle, a typical transgresse??e systems tract is not recognizable, indicating that the initial relative rise in sea level was too rapid (??? 19 cm/ky). Downstepping reefs, forming a forced regressive systems tract, were deposited during the relative sea-level fall at the end of DS3, indicating that relatively slow rates of fall (10 cm/ky or less) over favorable paleoslope conditions are conducive to generation of forced regressive systems tracts consisting of downstepping reef clinoforms. The TCC sequence consists of four shallow -water sedimentary cycles that were deposited during a 400 ky to 100 ky time span. Such shallow-water cycles, typical of many platforms, form only where shallow water intersects gently sloping substrates. The relative thicknesses of cycles (< 2 m to 15 m thick), magnitudes of relative sea-level fluctuations associated with each cycle (25-30 m), high rates of relative sea-level fluctuations (minimum of 25-120 cm/ky), and the widespread distribution of similar TCC cycles in the Mediterranean and elsewhere are supportive of a glacio-eustati

Microwave-Assisted Tissue Preparation for Rapid Fixation, Decalcification, Antigen Retrieval, Cryosectioning, and Immunostaining

PubMed Central

2016-01-01

Microwave irradiation of tissue during fixation and subsequent histochemical staining procedures significantly reduces the time required for incubation in fixation and staining solutions. Minimizing the incubation time in fixative reduces disruption of tissue morphology, and reducing the incubation time in staining solution or antibody solution decreases nonspecific labeling. Reduction of incubation time in staining solution also decreases the level of background noise. Microwave-assisted tissue preparation is applicable for tissue fixation, decalcification of bone tissues, treatment of adipose tissues, antigen retrieval, and other special staining of tissues. Microwave-assisted tissue fixation and staining are useful tools for histological analyses. This review describes the protocols using microwave irradiation for several essential procedures in histochemical studies, and these techniques are applicable to other protocols for tissue fixation and immunostaining in the field of cell biology. PMID:27840640

Mitochondrial fission proteins Fis1 and Mdv1, but not Dnm1, play a role in maintenance of heteroplasmy in budding yeast.

PubMed

Bradshaw, Elliot; Yoshida, Minoru; Ling, Feng

2012-04-24

In budding yeast, the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) replication pathway involving the homologous DNA pairing protein Mhr1 promotes mitochondrial allele segregation. Mitochondrial fusion facilitates the recombination-mediated replication pathway; however, the role of fission remains largely unknown. By monitoring mitochondrial allele segregation during zygotic division, we found that the absence of fission proteins Fis1 or Mdv1, but not Dnm1, resulted in increased initial homoplasmy levels and decreased mtDNA copy number. However, decreases in mtDNA copy number alone were not sufficient for rapid establishment of homoplasmy, suggesting that inhibiting the activities of certain fission proteins promotes homoplasmy by reducing the number of mtDNA segregation units. Copyright © 2012 Federation of European Biochemical Societies. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Effects of occupational exposure to noise and dust on blood pressure in Chinese industrial workers.

PubMed

Lin, Jingfeng; Wang, Hufei; Yan, Fen; Tang, Kefu; Zhu, Huang; Weng, Zuquan; Wang, Kejian

2018-01-01

Along with the rapid development of economy and urbanization, noise and air pollution are becoming major occupational health hazards in the process of industrial production. In this study, we collected data from 7293 industrial workers in China. The association between occupational exposure of noise and dust and blood pressure was investigated. Controlling for demographic variables, including sex, age, and length of service, a stepwise regression model with backward elimination was constructed. The results showed that both noise and dust decreased the level of systolic blood pressure (p < 0.001). This finding prompted the manufacturing industry to reduce noise and dust hazards and protect the occupational health of workers. Prospective studies in different populations are still required to verify the net contribution of noise and dust to the decrease in blood pressure.

Tension responses to rapid pressure release in glycerinated rabbit muscle fibers.

PubMed Central

Fortune, N S; Geeves, M A; Ranatunga, K W

1991-01-01

We have previously shown that the isometric tension of a fully calcium-activated skinned rabbit psoas muscle fiber is reversibly depressed by increased hydrostatic pressure. We report here the characterization of tension transients induced by a rapid (less than 1-ms) release of increased pressure at 12 degrees C. The tension transient consists of three clear phases, an initial further decrease of tension in phase with pressure change followed by two phases of tension increase back to the level recorded at ambient pressure. The mean reciprocal relaxation time for phase 2 (1/tau 2) was approximately 17 s-1 and that for phase 3 (1/tau 3) was 3 s-1. The presence of 20 mM inorganic phosphate markedly increased 1/tau 2 to approximately 52 s-1 and decreased 1/tau 3 to approximately 1.7 s-1. These observations are interpreted in terms of a pressure-sensitive transition between two attached crossbridge states of low (or zero) and higher force. This is compatible with the pressure-sensitive isomerization of actomyosin previously observed in solution. The results presented allow us to propose a coupling between a specific pressure-sensitive isomerization of purified actomyosin, the phosphate release step of the ATPase pathway, and the force-generating event of the cross-bridge cycle. PMID:1871140

Cadmium alteration of root physiology and potassium ion fluxes.

PubMed

Keck, R W

1978-07-01

Segments of oat (Avena sativa L.) roots which had been exposed to 1 millimolar CdSO(4) in quarter-strength Hoagland No. 1 solution exhibited decreased respiratory rates, ATP levels, membrane-bound ATPase activity, and reduced K(+) fluxes. Respiration and ATP levels were decreased after a 2-hour treatment with 1 millimolar CdSO(4) to 65 and 75%, respectively, of control rates. A membrane-bound, Mg(2+)-dependent, K(+)-stimulated acid ATPase was rapidly inhibited to 12% of control activity in the presence of 1 millimolar CdSO(4). Potassium uptake into root segments was inhibited to 80% of control values after 30 minutes in the presence of CdSO(4). A 2-hour pretreatment of root segments with CdSO(4) inhibited K(+) uptake to 15% of control values. Cytoplasmic K(+) efflux was inhibited with 1 millimolar CdSO(4).The rates and the degree of Cd(2+) inhibition of the parameters listed above suggest that one of the first sites of Cd(2+) action is the plasmalemma K(+) carrier (ATPase) in oat roots.

The respiration pattern as an indicator of the anaerobic threshold.

PubMed

Mirmohamadsadeghi, Leila; Vesin, Jean-Marc; Lemay, Mathieu; Deriaz, Olivier

2015-08-01

The anaerobic threshold (AT) is a good index of personal endurance but needs a laboratory setting to be determined. It is important to develop easy AT field measurements techniques in order to rapidly adapt training programs. In the present study, it is postulated that the variability of the respiratory parameters decreases with exercise intensity (especially at the AT level). The aim of this work was to assess, on healthy trained subjects, the putative relationships between the variability of some respiration parameters and the AT. The heart rate and respiratory variables (volume, rate) were measured during an incremental exercise performed on a treadmill by healthy moderately trained subjects. Results show a decrease in the variance of 1/tidal volume with the intensity of exercise. Consequently, the cumulated variance (sum of the variance measured at each level of the exercise) follows an exponential relationship with respect to the intensity to reach eventually a plateau. The amplitude of this plateau is closely related to the AT (r=-0.8). It is concluded that the AT is related to the variability of the respiration.

Growth and persistence of pathogens on granular activated carbon filters.

PubMed Central

Camper, A K; LeChevallier, M W; Broadaway, S C; McFeters, G A

1985-01-01

Three enteric pathogens Yersinia enterocolitica O:8, Salmonella typhimurium, and enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli, were examined for their ability to colonize granular activated carbon (GAC) in pure cultures and in the presence of autochthonous river water organisms. All three organisms readily colonized sterile GAC and maintained populations of ca. 10(5) to 10(7) CFU g-1 for 14 days when suspended in sterile river water. Exposure of pathogen biofilms on GAC to unsterile river water resulted in a gradual decline in pathogens on the carbon (0.08 to 0.14 log day-1). When pathogens were introduced to sterile GAC in the presence of heterotrophic plate count organisms, they attached at levels similar to those in the pure cultures and then decreased (0.10 to 0.22 log day-1). When added with heterotrophic plate count bacteria to GAC supporting a mature biofilm of native river water bacteria, they attached at a lower level (1.0 X 10(4) to 4.6 X 10(4) CFU g-1) and decreased at a more rapid rate (0.11 to 0.70 log day-1). PMID:3911903

Preservation of tumour oxygen after hyperbaric oxygenation monitored by magnetic resonance imaging

PubMed Central

Kinoshita, Y; Kohshi, K; Kunugita, N; Tosaki, T; Yokota, A

1999-01-01

Hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) has been proposed to reduce tumour hypoxia by increasing the dissolved molecular oxygen in tissue. Using a non-invasive magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technique, we monitored the changes in MRI signal intensity after HBO exposure because dissolved paramagnetic molecular oxygen itself shortens the T1 relation time. SCCVII tumour cells transplanted in mice were used. The molecular oxygen-enhanced MR images were acquired using an inversion recovery-preparation fast low angle shot (IR-FLASH) sequence sensitizing the paramagnetic effects of molecular oxygen using a 4.7 tesla MR system. MR signal of muscles decreased rapidly and returned to the control level within 40 min after decompression, whereas that of tumours decreased gradually and remained at a high level 60 min after HBO exposure. In contrast, the signal from the tumours in the normobaric oxygen group showed no significant change. Our data suggested that MR signal changes of tumours and muscles represent an alternation of extravascular oxygenation. The preserving tumour oxygen concentration after HBO exposure may be important regarding adjuvant therapy for cancer patients. © 2000 Cancer Research Campaign PMID:10638972

Further evidence for plasma progranulin as a biomarker in bipolar disorder.

PubMed

Kittel-Schneider, Sarah; Weigl, Johannes; Volkert, Julia; Geßner, Alexandra; Schmidt, Brigitte; Hempel, Susanne; Kiel, Tilman; Olmes, David G; Bartl, Jasmin; Weber, Heike; Kopf, Juliane; Reif, Andreas

2014-03-01

A recent study suggested that progranulin (encoded by the fronto-temporal dementia risk gene GRN) plasma levels are decreased in bipolar disorder (BD). Replication of this finding is however lacking. Progranulin plasma levels of bipolar patients (n=104) and healthy controls (n=80) were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Participants were also genotyped for three single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the GRN gene (rs2879096, rs4792938 and rs5848), and the effect of genetic variation on progranulin levels was examined. Plasma progranulin levels were decreased in BD (ANCOVA, p=0.001). Furthermore, age was significantly and positively correlated with plasma progranulin (Pearson׳s correlation, r=0.269, p<0.001). Also, lithium treatment but no other medication had a significant effect on progranulin plasma levels (ANCOVA, p=0.007). Specifically in BD, the GRN SNP rs5848 was associated with progranulin plasma levels (Kruskal-Wallis test, p<0.005). Subgroup analysis regarding bipolar I vs. bipolar II subtype and polarity of the episode at sampling (manic vs. depressed vs. mixed vs. rapid cycling vs. euthymic) could only be performed with limited validity due to the relatively small sample size. The suitability of peripheral progranulin as a biomarker for BD is limited due to the overlap between patients and controls. The findings strengthen the evidence for progranulin being involved in pathomechanisms of bipolar disorder, and suggest a genetic determinant of progranulin concentrations that is relevant specifically in bipolar patients. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Effect of different levels of rapidly degradable carbohydrates calculated by a simple rumen model on performance of lactating dairy cows.

PubMed

Doorenbos, J; Martín-Tereso, J; Dijkstra, J; van Laar, H

2017-07-01

Aggregating rumen degradation characteristics of different carbohydrate components into the term modeled rapidly degradable carbohydrates (mRDC) can simplify diet formulation by accounting for differences in rate and extent of carbohydrate degradation within and between feedstuffs. This study sought to evaluate responses of lactating dairy cows to diets formulated with increasing levels of mRDC, keeping the supply of other nutrients as constant as possible. The mRDC content of feedstuffs was calculated based on a simple rumen model including soluble, washable, and nonwashable but potentially degradable fractions, as well as the fractional degradation and passage rates, of sugar, starch, neutral detergent fiber, and other carbohydrates. The mRDC term effectively represents the total amount of carbohydrates degraded in the rumen within 2 h after ingestion. Fifty-two lactating Holstein cows (of which 4 were rumen fistulated) were assigned to 4 treatments in a 4 × 4 Latin square design. Treatments were fed as a total mixed ration consisting of 25.4% corn silage, 23.1% grass silage, 11.6% grass hay, and 39.9% concentrate on a dry matter basis. Differences in mRDC were created by exchanging nonforage neutral detergent fiber-rich ingredients (mainly sugar beet pulp) with starch-rich ingredients (mainly wheat) and by exchanging corn (slowly degradable starch) with wheat (rapidly degradable starch) in the concentrate, resulting in 4 treatments that varied in dietary mRDC level of 167, 181, 194, or 208 g/kg of dry matter. Level of mRDC did not affect dry matter intake. Fat- and protein-corrected milk production and milk fat and lactose yield were greatest at 181 mRDC and decreased with further increases in mRDC. Milk protein yield and concentration increased with increasing mRDC level. Mean rumen pH and diurnal variation in ruminal pH did not differ between treatments. Total daily meal time and number of visits per meal were smaller at 181 and 194 mRDC. Despite milk production responses, increasing dietary mRDC levels, while maintaining net energy and intestinal digestible protein as well as other nutrients at similar levels, did not influence rumen pH parameter estimates and had minor effects on feeding behavior. These results indicate that aggregating rapidly degradable carbohydrate content into one term may be a simple way to further improve predictability of production responses in practical diet formulation for lactating dairy cows. Copyright © 2017 American Dairy Science Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Single-cell imaging of bioenergetic responses to neuronal excitotoxicity and oxygen and glucose deprivation.

PubMed

Connolly, Niamh M C; Düssmann, Heiko; Anilkumar, Ujval; Huber, Heinrich J; Prehn, Jochen H M

2014-07-30

Excitotoxicity is a condition occurring during cerebral ischemia, seizures, and chronic neurodegeneration. It is characterized by overactivation of glutamate receptors, leading to excessive Ca(2+)/Na(+) influx into neurons, energetic stress, and subsequent neuronal injury. We and others have previously investigated neuronal populations to study how bioenergetic parameters determine neuronal injury; however, such experiments are often confounded by population-based heterogeneity and the contribution of effects of non-neuronal cells. Hence, we here characterized bioenergetics during transient excitotoxicity in rat and mouse primary neurons at the single-cell level using fluorescent sensors for intracellular glucose, ATP, and activation of the energy sensor AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). We identified ATP depletion and recovery to energetic homeostasis, along with AMPK activation, as surprisingly rapid and plastic responses in two excitotoxic injury paradigms. We observed rapid recovery of neuronal ATP levels also in the absence of extracellular glucose, or when glycolytic ATP production was inhibited, but found mitochondria to be critical for fast and complete energetic recovery. Using an injury model of oxygen and glucose deprivation, we identified a similarly rapid bioenergetics response, yet with incomplete ATP recovery and decreased AMPK activity. Interestingly, excitotoxicity also induced an accumulation of intracellular glucose, providing an additional source of energy during and after excitotoxicity-induced energy depletion. We identified this to originate from extracellular, AMPK-dependent glucose uptake and from intracellular glucose mobilization. Surprisingly, cells recovering their elevated glucose levels faster to baseline survived longer, indicating that the plasticity of neurons to adapt to bioenergetic challenges is a key indicator of neuronal viability. Copyright © 2014 the authors 0270-6474/14/3410192-14$15.00/0.

Study of brain electrolytes and organic osmolytes during correction of chronic hyponatremia. Implications for the pathogenesis of central pontine myelinolysis.

PubMed Central

Lien, Y H; Shapiro, J I; Chan, L

1991-01-01

Osmotic injury induced by rapid correction of severe chronic hyponatremia has been implicated in the development of central pontine myelinolysis. Organic osmolytes known previously as "idiogenic osmoles" accumulate intracellularly to protect cells from osmotic injury. We investigated the changes of these organic osmolytes as well as electrolytes in the brain during the induction and correction of chronic hyponatremia. Using 1H-nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and HPLC, we found that in rats with chronic hyponatremia (3 d, serum sodium = 109 +/- 3 meq/liter), brain concentrations of myoinositol (41%), glycerophosphorylcholine (45%), phosphocreatine/creatine (60%), glutamate (53%), glutamine (45%), and taurine (37%) were all significantly decreased compared with control values (percentage control value shown, all P less than 0.01). The contribution of measured organic osmolytes and electrolytes to the total brain osmolality change was 23 and 72%, respectively. With rapid correction by 5% NaCl infusion, significant brain dehydration and elevation of brain Na and Cl levels above the normal range occurred at 24 h. These changes were not seen with slow correction by water deprivation. Reaccumulation of most organic osmolytes except glycerophosphorylcholine is delayed during the correction of hyponatremia and is independent of the correction rate of serum sodium. It is concluded that: most of the change of brain osmolality in chronic hyponatremia can be accounted by the changes in organic osmolytes and brain electrolytes; and rapid correction of hyponatremia is associated with an overshoot of brain sodium and chloride levels along with a low organic osmolyte level. The high cerebral ion concentrations in the absence of adequate concentrations of organic osmolytes may be relevant to the development of central pontine myelinolysis. PMID:2056123

Phytoscreening for chlorinated solvents using rapid in vitro SPME sampling: Application to urban plume in Verl, Germany

USGS Publications Warehouse

Limmer, M.A.; Balouet, J.-C.; Karg, F.; Vroblesky, D.A.; Burken, J.G.

2011-01-01

Rapid detection and delineation of contaminants in urban settings is critically important in protecting human health. Cores from trees growing above a plume of contaminated groundwater in Verl, Germany, were collected in 1 day, with subsequent analysis and plume mapping completed over several days. Solid-phase microextraction (SPME) analysis was applied to detect tetrachloroethene (PCE) and trichloroethene (TCE) to below nanogram/liter levels in the transpiration stream of the trees. The tree core concentrations showed a clear areal correlation to the distribution of PCE and TCE in the groundwater. Concentrations in tree cores were lower than the underlying groundwater, as anticipated; however, the tree core water retained the PCE:TCE signature of the underlying groundwater in the urban, populated area. The PCE:TCE ratio can indicate areas of differing degradation activity. Therefore, the phytoscreening analysis was capable not only of mapping the spatial distribution of groundwater contamination but also of delineating zones of potentially differing contaminant sources and degradation. The simplicity of tree coring and the ability to collect a large number of samples in a day with minimal disruption or property damage in the urban setting demonstrates that phytoscreening can be a powerful tool for gaining reconnaissance-level information on groundwater contaminated by chlorinated solvents. The use of SPME decreases the detection level considerably and increases the sensitivity of phytoscreening as an assessment, monitoring, and phytoforensic tool. With rapid, inexpensive, and noninvasive methods of detecting and delineating contaminants underlying homes, as in this case, human health can be better protected through screening of broader areas and with far faster response times. ?? 2011 American Chemical Society.

Pharmacokinetics of the adrenocorticolytic compounds 3-methylsulphonyl-DDE and o,p'-DDD (mitotane) in Minipigs.

PubMed

Hermansson, Veronica; Cantillana, Tatiana; Hovander, Lotta; Bergman, Ake; Ljungvall, Karl; Magnusson, Ulf; Törneke, Karolina; Brandt, Ingvar

2008-02-01

The pharmacokinetics of the adrenocorticolytic drug candidate 3-Methylsulphonyl-DDE (3-MeSO2-DDE) and the anticancer drug o,p'-DDD (mitotane) were studied in Göttingen minipigs. The animals were given 3-MeSO2-DDE or o,p'-DDD as single oral doses (30 mg/kg). Concentrations in plasma and subcutaneous fat were measured by gas chromatography at different time points during 180 days. Maximal plasma concentrations appeared within 24 h for both compounds, but were about 2 times higher for 3-MeSO2DDE. o,p'-DDD plasma concentrations declined rapidly to low levels during 4 days. 3-MeSO2-DDE also decreased rapidly, but remained at high concentrations throughout the study. In fat, 3-MeSO2-DDE reached about 25-fold higher levels than o,p'-DDD at 30 days, and both substances were eliminated slowly from this tissue. 3-MeSO2-DDE liver concentrations were about 18-fold higher than those in plasma at 180 days. In contrast, o,p'-DDD liver and plasma levels were about equal at 180 days. o,p'-DDD had roughly 45 times larger CL/F than 3-MeSO2-DDE, confirming that the elimination of this compound was more rapid. Both compounds were characterised by their localisation and retention in fat tissue, and the individual size of the fat stores clearly determined the plasma concentrations. It is concluded that although 3-MeSO2-DDE is an interesting candidate for therapeutic use due to its potential characteristics to specifically target adrenocortical tumour cells the slow elimination of the compound might make it challenging to design appropriate dosage regimes.

Fluctuations in nucleus accumbens extracellular glutamate and glucose during motivated glucose-drinking behavior: dissecting the neurochemistry of reward.

PubMed

Wakabayashi, Ken T; Myal, Stephanie E; Kiyatkin, Eugene A

2015-02-01

While motivated behavior involves multiple neurochemical systems, few studies have focused on the role of glutamate, the brain's excitatory neurotransmitter, and glucose, the energetic substrate of neural activity in reward-related neural processes. Here, we used high-speed amperometry with enzyme-based substrate-sensitive and control, enzyme-free biosensors to examine second-scale fluctuations in the extracellular levels of these substances in the nucleus accumbens shell during glucose-drinking behavior in trained rats. Glutamate rose rapidly after the presentation of a glucose-containing cup and before the initiation of drinking (reward seeking), decreased more slowly to levels below baseline during consumption (sensory reward), and returned to baseline when the ingested glucose reached the brain (metabolic reward). When water was substituted for glucose, glutamate rapidly increased with cup presentation and in contrast to glucose drinking, increased above baseline after rats tasted the water and refused to drink further. Therefore, extracellular glutamate show distinct changes associated with key events of motivated drinking behavior and opposite dynamics during sensory and metabolic components of reward. In contrast to glutamate, glucose increased at each stimulus and behavioral event, showing a sustained elevation during the entire behavior and a robust post-ingestion rise that correlated with the gradual return of glutamate levels to their baseline. By comparing active drinking with passive intra-gastric glucose delivery, we revealed that fluctuations in extracellular glucose are highly dynamic, reflecting a balance between rapid delivery because of neural activity, intense metabolism, and the influence of ingested glucose reaching the brain. Published 2014. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.

Longitudinal Blood Pressure Changes and Kidney Function Decline in Persons Without Chronic Kidney Disease: Findings From the MESA Study.

PubMed

Judson, Gregory L; Rubinsky, Anna D; Shlipak, Michael G; Katz, Ronit; Kramer, Holly; Jacobs, David R; Odden, Michelle C; Peralta, Carmen A

2018-04-13

While changes in blood pressure (BP) are independently associated with cardiovascular events, less is known about the association between changes in BP and subsequent changes in renal function in adults with an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) of >60 ml/min/1.73 m2. The present study included 3,920 participants in the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA) study who had ≥2 BP measurements during the first 5 years of MESA and had eGFR measurements at both year 5 and 10. Change in BP was estimated as the annualized slope of BP between year 0 and 5 based on linear mixed models (mean number of measurements = 4.0). Participants were then grouped into 1 of 3 categories based on the distribution of systolic BP (SBP), diastolic BP (DBP), and pulse pressure (PP) change (top 20%, middle 21-79%, bottom 20%). We calculated eGFR from cystatin C (ml/min/1.73 m2), estimated annual change in eGFR (ml/min/1.73 m2/year), and defined rapid kidney function decline as a >30% decrease in eGFR from year 5 to 10. We used multivariable logistic regression adjusting for year 0 demographic and clinical characteristics, including eGFR and BP, to determine associations of BP change with rapid kidney function decline. Median age was 59 [interquartile range (IQR): 52, 67] and median eGFR at year 0 was 95.5 (IQR: 81.7, 105.9) ml/min/1.73 m2. Median SBP at year 0 was 111, 121, and 147 mm Hg for increasing, stable, and decreasing SBP change, respectively. Increasing SBP and widening PP change were each associated with higher odds of rapid kidney function decline compared with stable SBP and PP groups, respectively [odds ratio, OR 1.7 (95% confidence interval, CI 1.3, 2.4) for SBP; OR 1.4 (95% CI 1.1, 1.9) for PP]. Decreasing SBP was associated with rapid kidney function decline after adjusting for all covariates except for year 0 BP [OR 1.4 (95% CI 1.0, 1.8)], but this association was no longer statistically significant after adjustment for year 0 BP. There were no significant associations between DBP change and rapid decline in the fully adjusted models. Similar findings were seen with annual change in eGFR. Increasing SBP and widening PP over time were associated with greater risk for accelerated kidney function decline even at BP levels below established hypertension thresholds.

Novel Thrombotic Function of a Human SNP in STXBP5 Revealed by CRISPR/Cas9 Gene Editing in Mice.

PubMed

Zhu, Qiuyu Martin; Ko, Kyung Ae; Ture, Sara; Mastrangelo, Michael A; Chen, Ming-Huei; Johnson, Andrew D; O'Donnell, Christopher J; Morrell, Craig N; Miano, Joseph M; Lowenstein, Charles J

2017-02-01

To identify and characterize the effect of a SNP (single-nucleotide polymorphism) in the STXBP5 locus that is associated with altered thrombosis in humans. GWAS (genome-wide association studies) have identified numerous SNPs associated with human thrombotic phenotypes, but determining the functional significance of an individual candidate SNP can be challenging, particularly when in vivo modeling is required. Recent GWAS led to the discovery of STXBP5 as a regulator of platelet secretion in humans. Further clinical studies have identified genetic variants of STXBP5 that are linked to altered plasma von Willebrand factor levels and thrombosis in humans, but the functional significance of these variants in STXBP5 is not understood. We used CRISPR/Cas9 (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats/CRISPR-associated 9) techniques to produce a precise mouse model carrying a human coding SNP rs1039084 (encoding human p. N436S) in the STXBP5 locus associated with decreased thrombosis. Mice carrying the orthologous human mutation (encoding p. N437S in mouse STXBP5) have lower plasma von Willebrand factor levels, decreased thrombosis, and decreased platelet secretion compared with wild-type mice. This thrombosis phenotype recapitulates the phenotype of humans carrying the minor allele of rs1039084. Decreased plasma von Willebrand factor and platelet activation may partially explain the decreased thrombotic phenotype in mutant mice. Using precise mammalian genome editing, we have identified a human nonsynonymous SNP rs1039084 in the STXBP5 locus as a causal variant for a decreased thrombotic phenotype. CRISPR/Cas9 genetic editing facilitates the rapid and efficient generation of animals to study the function of human genetic variation in vascular diseases. © 2016 American Heart Association, Inc.

Biomarkers From Late Pregnancy to 6 Weeks Postpartum in HIV-Infected Women Who Continue Versus Discontinue Antiretroviral Therapy After Delivery

PubMed Central

Hoffman, Risa M.; Leister, Erin; Kacanek, Deborah; Shapiro, David E.; Read, Jennifer S.; Bryson, Yvonne; Currier, Judith S.

2013-01-01

Background Women who use antiretroviral therapy (ART) solely for the prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV discontinue postpartum. We hypothesized that women discontinuing ART by 6 weeks postpartum (“discontinuers”) would have elevated postpartum inflammatory biomarker levels relative to women remaining on ART postpartum (“continuers”). Methods Data from HIV-infected pregnant women enrolled in the International Maternal Pediatric Adolescent AIDS Clinical Trials Group P1025 with CD4 counts >350 cells per cubic millimeter before initiating ART or first pregnancy CD4 counts >400 cells per cubic millimeter after starting ART and with available stored plasma samples at >20 weeks of gestation, delivery, and 6 weeks postpartum were analyzed. Plasma samples were tested for highly sensitive C-reactive protein, D-dimer, and interleukin-6. We used longitudinal linear spline regression to model biomarkers over time. Results Data from 128 women (65 continuers and 63 discontinuers) were analyzed. All biomarkers increased from late pregnancy to delivery, then decreased postpartum (slopes different from 0, P < 0.001). Continuers had a steeper decrease in log D-dimer between delivery and 6 weeks postpartum than discontinuers (P = 0.002). Conclusions In contrast to results from treatment interruption studies in adults, both ART continuers and ART discontinuers had significant decreases in the levels of D-dimer, highly sensitive C-reactive protein, or interleukin-6 postpartum. Continuation was associated with a more rapid decline in D-dimer levels compared with discontinuation. PMID:23714738

TLR-activated repression of Fe-S cluster biogenesis drives a metabolic shift and alters histone and tubulin acetylation

PubMed Central

Maio, Nunziata; Palmieri, Erika M.; Ollivierre, Hayden; Ghosh, Manik C.

2018-01-01

Given the essential roles of iron-sulfur (Fe-S) cofactors in mediating electron transfer in the mitochondrial respiratory chain and supporting heme biosynthesis, mitochondrial dysfunction is a common feature in a growing list of human Fe-S cluster biogenesis disorders, including Friedreich ataxia and GLRX5-related sideroblastic anemia. Here, our studies showed that restriction of Fe-S cluster biogenesis not only compromised mitochondrial oxidative metabolism but also resulted in decreased overall histone acetylation and increased H3K9me3 levels in the nucleus and increased acetylation of α-tubulin in the cytosol by decreasing the lipoylation of the pyruvate dehydrogenase complex, decreasing levels of succinate dehydrogenase and the histone acetyltransferase ELP3, and increasing levels of the tubulin acetyltransferase MEC17. Previous studies have shown that the metabolic shift in Toll-like receptor (TLR)–activated myeloid cells involves rapid activation of glycolysis and subsequent mitochondrial respiratory failure due to nitric oxide (NO)–mediated damage to Fe-S proteins. Our studies indicated that TLR activation also actively suppresses many components of the Fe-S cluster biogenesis machinery, which exacerbates NO-mediated damage to Fe-S proteins by interfering with cluster recovery. These results reveal new regulatory pathways and novel roles of the Fe-S cluster biogenesis machinery in modifying the epigenome and acetylome and provide new insights into the etiology of Fe-S cluster biogenesis disorders. PMID:29784770

Comparison of the cardiovascular effects of meptazinol and naloxone following haemorrhagic shock in rats and cats.

PubMed Central

Chance, E.; Paciorek, P. M.; Todd, M. H.; Waterfall, J. F.

1985-01-01

The cardiovascular effects of the opioid mixed agonist-antagonist, meptazinol, and the opioid antagonist, naloxone, have been evaluated in conscious rats, anaesthetized rats and anaesthetized cats following the induction of haemorrhagic shock. The mean arterial pressure of conscious rats decreased by 17-29 mmHg following a haemorrhage of 20% of blood volume. Meptazinol (17 mg kg-1, i.m.) administered after haemorrhage evoked a rapid and sustained increase in mean arterial pressure to pre-haemorrhage levels. Naloxone (10 mg kg-1, i.v.) also increased mean arterial pressure to a level significantly higher than post-haemorrhage values. Neither haemorrhage nor subsequent drug treatments evoked significant changes in the heart rates of conscious rats. In anaesthetized rats, 20% haemorrhage evoked decreases in mean arterial pressure, heart rate and cardiac output. Blood flow to the heart, skin, skeletal muscle, kidneys, spleen and liver (arterial) was decreased. Meptazinol and naloxone increased blood pressure and total peripheral resistance, but did not significantly alter heart rate or cardiac output. Hepatic arterial flow decreased further in both drug and vehicle treated groups. In addition meptazinol slightly reduced skeletal muscle flow. In anaesthetized cats 40% haemorrhage decreased mean arterial pressure by 46 +/- 3 mmHg. An intravenous infusion of either meptazinol or naloxone (cumulative 2 mg kg-1, i.v.) partially restored blood pressure. In experimental animal models of haemorrhagic shock, meptazinol has a similar cardiovascular profile to naloxone. The established analgesic activity of meptazinol may confer an advantage in some shock states. PMID:4052729

Rapid quantification of neutral lipids and triglycerides during zebrafish embryogenesis.

PubMed

Yoganantharjah, Prusothman; Byreddy, Avinesh R; Fraher, Daniel; Puri, Munish; Gibert, Yann

2017-01-01

The zebrafish is a useful vertebrate model to study lipid metabolism. Oil Red-O (ORO) staining of zebrafish embryos, though sufficient for visualizing the localization of triglycerides, was previously inadequate to quantify neutral lipid abundance. For metabolic studies, it is crucial to be able to quantify lipids during embryogenesis. Currently no cost effective, rapid and reliable method exists to quantify the deposition of neutral lipids and triglycerides. Thin layer chromatography (TLC), gas chromatography and mass spectrometry can be used to accurately measure lipid levels, but are time consuming and costly in their use. Hence, we developed a rapid and reliable method to quantify neutral lipids and triglycerides. Zebrafish embryos were exposed to Rimonabant (Rimo) or WIN 55,212-2 mesylate (WIN), compounds previously shown to modify lipid content during zebrafish embryogenesis. Following this, ORO stain was extracted out of both the zebrafish body and yolk sac and optical density was measured to give an indication of neutral lipid and triglyceride accumulation. Embryos treated with 0.3 microM WIN resulted in increased lipid accumulation, whereas 3 microM Rimo caused a decrease in lipid accumulation during embryogenesis. TLC was performed on zebrafish bodies to validate the developed method. In addition, BODIPY free fatty acids were injected into zebrafish embryos to confirm quantification of changes in lipid content in the embryo. Previously, ORO was limited to qualitative assessment; now ORO can be used as a quantitative tool to directly determine changes in the levels of neutral lipids and triglycerides.

Globalization of diabetes: the role of diet, lifestyle, and genes.

PubMed

Hu, Frank B

2011-06-01

Type 2 diabetes is a global public health crisis that threatens the economies of all nations, particularly developing countries. Fueled by rapid urbanization, nutrition transition, and increasingly sedentary lifestyles, the epidemic has grown in parallel with the worldwide rise in obesity. Asia's large population and rapid economic development have made it an epicenter of the epidemic. Asian populations tend to develop diabetes at younger ages and lower BMI levels than Caucasians. Several factors contribute to accelerated diabetes epidemic in Asians, including the "normal-weight metabolically obese" phenotype; high prevalence of smoking and heavy alcohol use; high intake of refined carbohydrates (e.g., white rice); and dramatically decreased physical activity levels. Poor nutrition in utero and in early life combined with overnutrition in later life may also play a role in Asia's diabetes epidemic. Recent advances in genome-wide association studies have contributed substantially to our understanding of diabetes pathophysiology, but currently identified genetic loci are insufficient to explain ethnic differences in diabetes risk. Nonetheless, interactions between Westernized diet and lifestyle and genetic background may accelerate the growth of diabetes in the context of rapid nutrition transition. Epidemiologic studies and randomized clinical trials show that type 2 diabetes is largely preventable through diet and lifestyle modifications. Translating these findings into practice, however, requires fundamental changes in public policies, the food and built environments, and health systems. To curb the escalating diabetes epidemic, primary prevention through promotion of a healthy diet and lifestyle should be a global public policy priority.

Globalization of Diabetes

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Type 2 diabetes is a global public health crisis that threatens the economies of all nations, particularly developing countries. Fueled by rapid urbanization, nutrition transition, and increasingly sedentary lifestyles, the epidemic has grown in parallel with the worldwide rise in obesity. Asia's large population and rapid economic development have made it an epicenter of the epidemic. Asian populations tend to develop diabetes at younger ages and lower BMI levels than Caucasians. Several factors contribute to accelerated diabetes epidemic in Asians, including the “normal-weight metabolically obese” phenotype; high prevalence of smoking and heavy alcohol use; high intake of refined carbohydrates (e.g., white rice); and dramatically decreased physical activity levels. Poor nutrition in utero and in early life combined with overnutrition in later life may also play a role in Asia's diabetes epidemic. Recent advances in genome-wide association studies have contributed substantially to our understanding of diabetes pathophysiology, but currently identified genetic loci are insufficient to explain ethnic differences in diabetes risk. Nonetheless, interactions between Westernized diet and lifestyle and genetic background may accelerate the growth of diabetes in the context of rapid nutrition transition. Epidemiologic studies and randomized clinical trials show that type 2 diabetes is largely preventable through diet and lifestyle modifications. Translating these findings into practice, however, requires fundamental changes in public policies, the food and built environments, and health systems. To curb the escalating diabetes epidemic, primary prevention through promotion of a healthy diet and lifestyle should be a global public policy priority. PMID:21617109

Integrated Sr isotope variations and global environmental changes through the Late Permian to early Late Triassic

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Song, Haijun; Wignall, Paul B.; Tong, Jinnan; Song, Huyue; Chen, Jing; Chu, Daoliang; Tian, Li; Luo, Mao; Zong, Keqing; Chen, Yanlong; Lai, Xulong; Zhang, Kexin; Wang, Hongmei

2015-08-01

New 87Sr/86Sr data based on 127 well-preserved and well-dated conodont samples from South China were measured using a new technique (LA-MC-ICPMS) based on single conodont albid crown analysis. These reveal a spectacular climb in seawater 87Sr/86Sr ratios during the Early Triassic that was the most rapid of the Phanerozoic. The rapid increase began in Bed 25 of the Meishan section (GSSP of the Permian-Triassic boundary, PTB), and coincided closely with the latest Permian extinction. Modeling results indicate that the accelerated rise of 87Sr/86Sr ratios can be ascribed to a rapid increase (>2.8×) of riverine flux of Sr caused by intensified weathering. This phenomenon could in turn be related to an intensification of warming-driven runoff and vegetation die-off. Continued rise of 87Sr/86Sr ratios in the Early Triassic indicates that continental weathering rates were enhanced >1.9 times compared to those of the Late Permian. Continental weathering rates began to decline in the middle-late Spathian, which may have played a role in the decrease of oceanic anoxia and recovery of marine benthos. The 87Sr/86Sr values decline gradually into the Middle Triassic to an equilibrium values around 1.2 times those of the Late Permian level, suggesting that vegetation coverage did not attain pre-extinction levels thereby allowing higher runoff.

An application generator for rapid prototyping of Ada real-time control software

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Johnson, Jim; Biglari, Haik; Lehman, Larry

1990-01-01

The need to increase engineering productivity and decrease software life cycle costs in real-time system development establishes a motivation for a method of rapid prototyping. The design by iterative rapid prototyping technique is described. A tool which facilitates such a design methodology for the generation of embedded control software is described.

Acute Effects of Muscarinic M1 Receptor Modulation on AβPP Metabolism and Amyloid-β Levels in vivo: A Microdialysis Study.

PubMed

Welt, Tobias; Kulic, Luka; Hoey, Sarah E; McAfoose, Jordan; Späni, Claudia; Chadha, Antonella Santuccione; Fisher, Abraham; Nitsch, Roger M

2015-01-01

Indirect modulation of cholinergic activity by cholinesterase inhibition is currently a widely established symptomatic treatment for Alzheimer's disease (AD). Selective activation of certain muscarinic receptor subtypes has emerged as an alternative cholinergic-based amyloid-lowering strategy for AD, as selective muscarinic M1 receptor agonists can reduce amyloid-β (Aβ) production by shifting endoproteolytic amyloid-β protein precursor (AβPP) processing toward non-amyloidogenic pathways. In this study, we addressed the hypothesis that acute stimulation of muscarinic M1 receptors can inhibit Aβ production in awake and freely moving AβPP transgenic mice. By combining intracerebral microdialysis with retrodialysis, we determined hippocampal Aβ concentrations during simultaneous pharmacological modulation of brain M1 receptor function. Infusion with a M1 receptor agonist AF102B resulted in a rapid reduction of interstitial fluid (ISF) Aβ levels while treatment with the M1 antagonist dicyclomine increased ISF Aβ levels reaching significance within 120 minutes of treatment. The reduction in Aβ levels was associated with PKCα and ERK activation resulting in increased levels of the α-secretase ADAM17 and a shift in AβPP processing toward the non-amyloidogenic processing pathway. In contrast, treatment with the M1 receptor antagonist dicyclomine caused a decrease in levels of phosphorylated ERK that was independent of PKCα, and led to an elevation of β-secretase levels associated with increased amyloidogenic AβPP processing. The results of this study demonstrate rapid effects of in vivo M1 receptor modulation on the ISF pool of Aβ and suggest that intracerebral microdialysis with retrodialysis is a useful technical approach for monitoring acute treatment effects of muscarinic receptor modulators on AβPP/Aβ metabolism.

Changes in the Levels of Abscisic Acid and Its Metabolites in Excised Leaf Blades of Xanthium strumarium during and after Water Stress 1

PubMed Central

Zeevaart, Jan A. D.

1980-01-01

The time course of abscisic acid (ABA) accumulation during water stress and of degradation following rehydration was investigated by analyzing the levels of ABA and its metabolites phaseic acid (PA) and alkalihydrolyzable conjugated ABA in excised leaf blades of Xanthium strumarium. Initial purification was by reverse-phase, preparative, high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) which did not require prior partitioning. ABA and PA were purified further by analytical HPLC with a μBondapak-NH2 column, and quantified by GLC with an electron capture detector. The ABA content of stressed leaves increased for 4 to 5 hours and then leveled off due to a balance between synthesis and degradation. Since PA accumulated at a constant rate throughout the wilting period, it was concluded that the rate of ABA synthesis decreased after the first 4 to 5 hours stress. Conjugated ABA increased at a low rate during stress. This is interpreted to indicate that free ABA was converted to the conjugated form, rather than the reverse. Following rehydration of wilted leaves, the ABA level immediately ceased increasing; it remained constant for 1 hour and then declined rapidly to the prestress level over a 2- to 3-hour period with a concomitant rise in the PA level. In contrast to the rapid disappearance of ABA after relief of stress, the high PA content of rehydrated leaves declined only slowly. The level of conjugated ABA did not change following rehydration, indicating that conjugation of ABA was irreversible. Detached Xanthium leaves that were subjected to a wilting-recovery-rewilting cycle in darkness, responded to the second wilting period by formation of the same amount of ABA as accumulated after the first stress period. PMID:16661500

Changes in the Levels of Abscisic Acid and Its Metabolites in Excised Leaf Blades of Xanthium strumarium during and after Water Stress.

PubMed

Zeevaart, J A

1980-10-01

The time course of abscisic acid (ABA) accumulation during water stress and of degradation following rehydration was investigated by analyzing the levels of ABA and its metabolites phaseic acid (PA) and alkalihydrolyzable conjugated ABA in excised leaf blades of Xanthium strumarium. Initial purification was by reverse-phase, preparative, high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) which did not require prior partitioning. ABA and PA were purified further by analytical HPLC with a muBondapak-NH(2) column, and quantified by GLC with an electron capture detector.The ABA content of stressed leaves increased for 4 to 5 hours and then leveled off due to a balance between synthesis and degradation. Since PA accumulated at a constant rate throughout the wilting period, it was concluded that the rate of ABA synthesis decreased after the first 4 to 5 hours stress. Conjugated ABA increased at a low rate during stress. This is interpreted to indicate that free ABA was converted to the conjugated form, rather than the reverse.Following rehydration of wilted leaves, the ABA level immediately ceased increasing; it remained constant for 1 hour and then declined rapidly to the prestress level over a 2- to 3-hour period with a concomitant rise in the PA level. In contrast to the rapid disappearance of ABA after relief of stress, the high PA content of rehydrated leaves declined only slowly. The level of conjugated ABA did not change following rehydration, indicating that conjugation of ABA was irreversible.Detached Xanthium leaves that were subjected to a wilting-recovery-rewilting cycle in darkness, responded to the second wilting period by formation of the same amount of ABA as accumulated after the first stress period.

Repaglinide--prandial glucose regulator: a new class of oral antidiabetic drugs.

PubMed

Owens, D R

1998-01-01

The highest demand on insulin secretion occurs in connection with meals. In normal people, following a meal, the insulin secretion increases rapidly, reaching peak concentration in the blood within an hour. The mealtime insulin response in patients with Type 2 diabetes is blunted and delayed, whereas basal levels often remain within the normal range (albeit at elevated fasting glucose levels). Restoration of the insulin secretion pattern at mealtimes (prandial phase)--without stimulating insulin secretion in the 'postabsorptive' phase--is the rationale for the development of 'prandial glucose regulators', drugs that are characterized by a very rapid onset and short duration of action in stimulating insulin secretion. Repaglinide, a carbamoylmethyl benzoic acid (CMBA) derivative is the first such compound, which recently has become available for clinical use. Repaglinide is very rapidly absorbed (t(max) less than 1 hour) with a t1/2 of less than one hour. Furthermore, repaglinide is inactivated in the liver and more than 90% excreted via the bile. The implications of tailoring repaglinide treatment to meals were examined in a study where repaglinide was dosed either morning and evening, or with each main meal (i.e. breakfast, lunch, dinner), with the total daily dose of repaglinide being identical. The mealtime dosing caused a significant improvement in both fasting and 24-hour glucose profiles, as well as a significant decrease in HbA1c. In other studies, repaglinide caused a decrease of 5.8 mmol x l(-1) in peak postprandial glucose levels, and a decrease of 3.1 mmol x l(-1) in fasting levels with a reduction in HbA1c of 1.8% compared with placebo. In comparative studies with either sulphonylurea or metformin, repaglinide caused similar or improved control (i.e. HbA1c, mean glucose levels) and the drug was well tolerated (e.g. reported gastrointestinal side-effects were more than halved when patients were switched from metformin to repaglinide). A hallmark of repaglinide treatment is that this medication follows the eating pattern, and not vice versa. Hence the risk of developing severe hypoglycaemia (BG < or = 2.5 mmol x l(-1)) in connection with flexible lifestyles should be reduced. This concept was examined in a study in which patients well controlled on repaglinide skipped their lunch on one occasion. When a meal (i.e. lunch) was skipped--so was the repaglinide dose, whereas in the comparative group on glibenclamide the recommended morning and evening doses were taken. Twenty-four per cent of the patients in the glibenclamide group developed severe hypoglycaemia, whereas no hypoglycaemic events occurred in the group receiving repaglinide. However, in long-term studies the overall prevalence of hypoglycaemia was similar to that found with other insulin secretagogues. In summary, current evidence shows that the concept of prandial glucose regulation offers good long-term glycaemic control combined with a low risk of severe hypoglycaemia with missed meals. The concept should meet the needs of Type 2 diabetic patients, allowing flexibility in their lifestyle.

Nitrate Reductase Activity and Polyribosomal Content of Corn (Zea mays L.) Having Low Leaf Water Potentials 1

PubMed Central

Morilla, Camila A.; Boyer, J. S.; Hageman, R. H.

1973-01-01

Desiccation of 8- to 13-day-old seedlings, achieved by withholding nutrient solution from the vermiculite root medium, caused a reduction in nitrate reductase activity of the leaf tissue. Activity declined when leaf water potentials decreased below −2 bars and was 25% of the control at a leaf water potential of −13 bars. Experiments were conducted to determine whether the decrease in nitrate reductase activity was due to reduced levels of nitrate in the tissue, direct inactivation of the enzyme by low leaf water potentials, or to changes in rates of synthesis or decay of the enzyme. Although tissue nitrate content decreased with the onset of desiccation, it did not continue to decline with tissue desiccation and loss of enzyme activity. Nitrate reductase activity recovered when the plants were rewatered with nitrate-free medium, suggesting that the nitrate in the plant was adequate for high nitrate reductase activity. The rate of decay of nitrate reductase activity from desiccated tissue was essentially identical to that of the control, in vivo or in vitro, regardless of the rapidity of desiccation of the tissue. Direct inactivation of the enzyme by the low water potentials was not detected. Polyribosomal content of the tissue declined with the decrease in water potential, prior to the decline in nitrate reductase activity. Changes in ribosomal profiles occurred during desiccation, regardless of whether the tissue had been excised or not and whether desiccation was rapid or slow. Reduction in polyribosomal content did not appear to be associated with changes in ribonuclease activity. Nitrate reductase activity and the polyribosomal content of the tissue recovered upon rewatering, following the recovery in water potential. The increase in polyribosomal content preceded the increase in nitrate reductase activity. Recovery of enzyme activity was prevented by cycloheximide. Based on these results, it appears that nitrate reductase activity was affected primarily by a decrease in the rate of enzyme synthesis at low leaf water potentials. PMID:16658419

Defense related decadienal elicits membrane lipid remodeling in the diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum

PubMed Central

Sabharwal, Tanya; Sathasivan, Kanagasabapathi

2017-01-01

Diatoms rapidly release extracellular oxylipins (oxygenated lipids) including polyunsaturated aldehydes in response to herbivory and other stresses. Oxylipins have several defense-related activities including inhibition of reproduction in herbivores and signaling to distant diatoms. Physiological changes in diatoms exposed to varying levels of oxylipins are only beginning to be understood. In this study, Phaeodactylum tricornutum cultures were treated with sublethal concentrations of the polyunsaturated aldehyde trans,trans-2,4-decadienal (DD) to assess effects on lipid composition and membrane permeability. In cells treated with DD for 3 hr, all measured saturated and unsaturated fatty acids significantly decreased (0.46–0.69 fold of levels in solvent control cells) except for 18:2 (decreased but not significantly). The decrease was greater in the polyunsaturated fatty acid pool than the saturated and monounsaturated fatty acid pool. Analysis of lipid classes revealed increased abundances of phosphatidylethanolamine and phosphatidylcholine at 3 and 6 hr. Concomitantly, these and other membrane lipids exhibited increased saturated and monounsaturated acyl chains content relative to polyunsaturated acyl chains compared to control cells. Evidence of decreased plasma membrane permeability in DD treated cells was obtained, based on reduced uptake of two of three dyes relative to control cells. Additionally, cells pre-conditioned with a sublethal DD dose for 3 hr then treated with a lethal DD dose for 2 hr exhibited greater membrane integrity than solvent pre-conditioned control cells that were similarly treated. Taken together, the data are supportive of the hypothesis that membrane remodeling induced by sublethal DD is a key element in the development of cellular resistance in diatoms to varying and potentially toxic levels of polyunsaturated aldehydes in environments impacted by herbivory or other stresses. PMID:28582415

Simultaneous silencing of isoamylases ISA1, ISA2 and ISA3 by multi-target RNAi in potato tubers leads to decreased starch content and an early sprouting phenotype

PubMed Central

Ferreira, Stephanus J.; Senning, Melanie; Fischer-Stettler, Michaela; Streb, Sebastian; Ast, Michelle; Neuhaus, H. Ekkehard; Zeeman, Samuel C.; Sonnewald, Sophia

2017-01-01

Isoamylases hydrolyse (1–6)-alpha-D-glucosidic linkages in starch and are involved in both starch granule formation and starch degradation. In plants, three isoamylase isoforms with distinct functions in starch synthesis (ISA1 and ISA2) and degradation (ISA3) have been described. Here, we created transgenic potato plants with simultaneously decreased expression of all three isoamylases using a chimeric RNAi construct targeting all three isoforms. Constitutive expression of the hairpin RNA using the 35S CaMV promoter resulted in efficient silencing of all three isoforms in leaves, growing tubers, and sprouting tubers. Neither plant growth nor tuber yield was effected in isoamylase-deficient potato lines. Interestingly, starch metabolism was found to be impaired in a tissue-specific manner. While leaf starch content was unaffected, tuber starch was significantly reduced. The reduction in tuber starch content in the transgenic plants was accompanied by a decrease in starch granules size, an increased sucrose content and decreased hexose levels. Despite the effects on granule size, only little changes in chain length composition of soluble and insoluble glucose polymers were detected. The transgenic tubers displayed an early sprouting phenotype that was accompanied by an increased level of sucrose in parenchyma cells below the outgrowing bud. Since high sucrose levels promote sprouting, we propose that the increased number of small starch granules may cause an accelerated turnover of glucan chains and hence a more rapid synthesis of sucrose. This observation links alterations in starch structure/degradation with developmental processes like meristem activation and sprout outgrowth in potato tubers. PMID:28708852

Air pollution alters brain and pituitary endothelin-1 and inducible nitric oxide synthase gene expression.

PubMed

Thomson, Errol M; Kumarathasan, Prem; Calderón-Garcidueñas, Lilian; Vincent, Renaud

2007-10-01

Recent work suggests that air pollution is a risk factor for cerebrovascular and neurodegenerative disease. Effects of inhaled pollutants on the production of vasoactive factors such as endothelin (ET) and nitric oxide (NO) in the brain may be relevant to disease pathogenesis. Inhaled pollutants increase circulating levels of ET-1 and ET-3, and the pituitary is a potential source of plasma ET, but the effects of pollutants on the expression of ET and NO synthase genes in the brain and pituitary are not known. In the present study, Fischer-344 rats were exposed by nose-only inhalation to particles (0, 5, 50mg/m3 EHC-93), ozone (0, 0.4, 0.8 ppm), or combinations of particles and ozone for 4 h. Real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction was used to measure mRNA levels in the cerebral hemisphere and pituitary 0 and 24 h post-exposure. Ozone inhalation significantly increased preproET-1 but decreased preproET-3 mRNAs in the cerebral hemisphere, while increasing mRNA levels of preproET-1, preproET-3, and the ET-converting enzyme (ECE)-1 in the pituitary. Inducible NO synthase (iNOS) was initially decreased in the cerebral hemisphere after ozone inhalation, but increased 24 h post-exposure. Particles decreased tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha mRNA in the cerebral hemisphere, and both particles and ozone decreased TNF-alpha mRNA in the pituitary. Our results show that ozone and particulate matter rapidly modulate the expression of genes involved in key vasoregulatory pathways in the brain and pituitary, substantiating the notion that inhaled pollutants induce cerebrovascular effects.

Quantifying an aquifer nitrate budget and future nitrate discharge using field data from streambeds and well nests

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gilmore, Troy E.; Genereux, David P.; Solomon, D. Kip; Farrell, Kathleen M.; Mitasova, Helena

2016-11-01

Novel groundwater sampling (age, flux, and nitrate) carried out beneath a streambed and in wells was used to estimate (1) the current rate of change of nitrate storage, dSNO3/dt, in a contaminated unconfined aquifer, and (2) future [NO3-]FWM (the flow-weighted mean nitrate concentration in groundwater discharge) and fNO3 (the nitrate flux from aquifer to stream). Estimates of dSNO3/dt suggested that at the time of sampling (2013) the nitrate storage in the aquifer was decreasing at an annual rate (mean = -9 mmol/m2yr) equal to about one-tenth the rate of nitrate input by recharge. This is consistent with data showing a slow decrease in the [NO3-] of groundwater recharge in recent years. Regarding future [NO3-]FWM and fNO3, predictions based on well data show an immediate decrease that becomes more rapid after ˜5 years before leveling out in the early 2040s. Predictions based on streambed data generally show an increase in future [NO3-]FWM and fNO3 until the late 2020s, followed by a decrease before leveling out in the 2040s. Differences show the potential value of using information directly from the groundwater—surface water interface to quantify the future impact of groundwater nitrate on surface water quality. The choice of denitrification kinetics was similarly important; compared to zero-order kinetics, a first-order rate law levels out estimates of future [NO3-]FWM and fNO3 (lower peak, higher minimum) as legacy nitrate is flushed from the aquifer. Major fundamental questions about nonpoint-source aquifer contamination can be answered without a complex numerical model or long-term monitoring program.

Circulating Insulin-Like Growth Factor I Regulates Its Receptor in the Brain of Male Mice.

PubMed

Trueba-Saiz, A; Fernandez, A M; Nishijima, T; Mecha, M; Santi, A; Munive, V; Aleman, I Torres

2017-02-01

The role of IGF-1 and its receptor (IGF-1R) in brain pathology is still unclear. Thus, either reduction of IGF-IR or treatment with IGF-1, two apparently opposite actions, has proven beneficial in brain diseases such as Alzheimer's dementia. A possible explanation of this discrepancy is that IGF-1 down-regulates brain IGF-1R levels, as previously seen in a mouse Alzheimer's dementia model. We now explored whether under normal conditions IGF-1 modulates its receptor. We first observed that in vitro, IGF-1 reduced IGF-1R mRNA levels in all types of brain cells including neurons, astrocytes, microglia, endothelial cells, and oligodendrocytes. IGF-1 also inhibited its own expression in neurons and brain endothelium. Next, we analyzed the in vivo actions of IGF-1. Because serum IGF-1 can enter the brain, we injected mice with IGF-1 ip. As soon as 1 hour after the injection, decreased hippocampal IGF-1 levels were observed, followed by increased IGF-1 and IGF-1R mRNAs 6 hours later. Because environmental enrichment (EE) stimulates the entrance of serum IGF-1 into the brain, we analyzed whether a physiological entrance of IGF-1 also produced changes in brain IGF-1R. Stimulation of IGF-1R by EE triggered a gradual decrease in hippocampal IGF-1 levels. After 6 hours of EE exposure, IGF-1 levels reached a significant decrease in parallel with increased IGF-1R expression. After longer times, IGF-1R mRNA levels returned to baseline. Thus, under nonpathological conditions, IGF-1 regulates brain IGF-1R. Because baseline IGF-1R levels are rapidly restored, a tight control of brain IGF-1R expression seems to operate under physiological conditions. Copyright © 2017 by the Endocrine Society.

Decrease in hydrogen sulfide content during the final stage of beer fermentation due to involvement of yeast and not carbon dioxide gas purging.

PubMed

Oka, Kaneo; Hayashi, Teruhiko; Matsumoto, Nobuya; Yanase, Hideshi

2008-09-01

We observed a rapid decrease in hydrogen sulfide content in the final stage of beer fermentation that was attributed to yeast and not to the purging of carbon dioxide (CO(2)) gas. The well known immature off-flavor in beer due to hydrogen sulfide (H(2)S) behavior during beer fermentation was closely investigated. The H(2)S decrease occurred during the final stage of fermentation when the CO(2)-evolution rate was extremely small and there was a decrease in the availability of fermentable sugars, suggesting that the exhaustion of fermentable sugars triggered the decrease in H(2)S. An H(2)S-balance analysis suggested that the H(2)S decrease might have been caused due to sulfide uptake by yeast. Further investigation showed that the time necessary for H(2)S to decrease below the sensory threshold was related to the number of suspended yeast cells. This supported the hypothesis that yeast cells contributed to the rapid decrease in H(2)S during the final stage of beer fermentation.

Use of rapid sampling microdialysis for intraoperative monitoring of bowel ischemia.

PubMed

Deeba, S; Corcoles, E P; Hanna, G B; Hanna, B G; Pareskevas, P; Aziz, O; Boutelle, M G; Darzi, A

2008-09-01

Intestinal ischemia is a major cause of anastomotic leak and death and remains a clinical challenge as the physician relies on several nonspecific signs, biologic markers, and radiologic studies to make the diagnosis. This study used rapid sampling online microdialysis to evaluate the biochemical changes occurring in a segment of human bowel during and after resection, and assessed for the feasibility and reproducibility of this technique in monitoring intestinal ischemia. A custom made, rapid sampling online microdialysis analyzer was used to monitor the changes in the bowel wall of specimens being resected intraoperatively. Two patients were recruited for the pilot study to optimize the analyzer and seven patients undergoing colonic resections were recruited for the data collection and analysis. The concentration of glucose in the extracellular bowel wall fluid decreased transiently after division of individual feeding arteries followed by a rebound increase in the concentration back to baseline concentrations. After completion of resection, glucose concentrations continued to decrease while lactate concentrations increased constantly. Rapid sampling microdialysis was feasible in the clinical environment. These results suggest that tissue responds to ischemic insult by mobilizing glucose stores which later decrease again, whereas lactate concentrations constantly increased.

Effect of water turbidity on the visual acuity of harbor seals (Phoca vitulina).

PubMed

Weiffen, Michael; Möller, Bettina; Mauck, Björn; Dehnhardt, Guido

2006-05-01

The underwater visual acuity (the angle subtended by the minimal resolvable line width of high contrast square wave gratings at a viewing distance of 2m) of two male harbor seals was determined at different levels of water turbidity. Starting with visual acuity angles of 5.5' and 12.7' in clear water we found visual acuity to decrease rapidly with increasing turbidity at rates of 7.4' and 6.0' per formazin nephelometric unit (FNU). Besides the individual differences in visual performance of the harbor seals tested, our results reveal a dramatic loss of visual acuity even at moderate levels of turbidity. At sites in the German Wadden Sea, where harbor seals are known to roam and forage, we measured turbidity levels exceeding 40FNU. These data suggest that turbidity has to be considered as an important factor in the sensory ecology of pinnipeds.

Plasmapheresis in the management of severe hypertriglyceridemia.

PubMed

Seda, Gilbert; Meyer, Jill M; Amundson, Dennis E; Daheshia, Massoud

2013-08-01

Plasmapheresis can benefit a variety of critically ill patients. A woman with diabetic ketoacidosis and severe hypertriglyceridemia was treated with plasmapheresis when conventional treatments did not markedly reduce her triglyceridemia. The patient was admitted to a medical intensive care unit because of diabetic ketoacidosis with severe lipemia. The lipemia-associated interference in laboratory studies made treatment of electrolyte abnormalities extremely difficult. The hypertriglyceridemia was initially treated with insulin, antilipidemic medications, and heparin, but the levels of triglycerides remained elevated, delaying results of needed laboratory studies for hours. After plasmapheresis, the serum level of triglycerides decreased by 77% in less than 24 hours. Severe lipemia interferes with photometric laboratory studies, yielding an underestimation of serum levels of electrolytes. Plasmapheresis is safe, rapid, and effective for emergent management of severe hypertriglyceridemia in critically ill patients. The impact of the procedure on critical care nursing is growing as nurses become involved in the treatment and follow-up care of patients who have plasmapheresis.

Organic matter content and particle size modifications in mangrove sediments as responses to sea level rise.

PubMed

Sanders, Christian J; Smoak, Joseph M; Waters, Mathew N; Sanders, Luciana M; Brandini, Nilva; Patchineelam, Sambasiva R

2012-06-01

Mangroves sediments contain large reservoirs of organic material (OM) as mangrove ecosystems produce large quantities and rapidly burial OM. Sediment accumulation rates of approximately 2.0 mm year(-1), based on (210)Pb(ex) dating, were estimated at the margin of two well-developed mangrove forest in southern Brazil. Regional data point to a relative sea level (RSL) rise of up to ∼4.0 mm year(-1). This RSL rise in turn, may directly influence the origin and quantity of organic matter (OM) deposited along mangrove sediments. Lithostratigraphic changes show that sand deposition is replacing the mud (<63 μm) fraction and OM content is decreasing in successively younger sediments. Sediment accumulation in coastal areas that are not keeping pace with sea level rise is potentially conducive to the observed shifts in particle size and OM content. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Slow recovery of the impaired fatigue resistance in postunloading mouse soleus muscle corresponding to decreased mitochondrial function and a compensatory increase in type I slow fibers

PubMed Central

Feng, Han-Zhong; Chen, Xuequn; Malek, Moh H.

2015-01-01

Unloading or disuse rapidly results in skeletal muscle atrophy, switching to fast-type fibers, and decreased resistance to fatigue. The recovery process is of major importance in rehabilitation for various clinical conditions. Here we studied mouse soleus muscle during 60 days of reloading after 4 wk of hindlimb suspension. Unloading produced significant atrophy of soleus muscle with decreased contractile force and fatigue resistance, accompanied by switches of myosin isoforms from IIa to IIx and IIb and fast troponin T to more low-molecular-weight splice forms. The total mass, fiber size, and contractile force of soleus muscle recovered to control levels after 15 days of reloading. However, the fatigue resistance showed a trend of worsening during this period with significant infiltration of inflammatory cells at days 3 and 7, indicating reloading injuries that were accompanied by active regeneration with upregulations of filamin-C, αB-crystallin, and desmin. The fatigue resistance partially recovered after 30–60 days of reloading. The expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ coactivator 1α and mitofusin-2 showed changes parallel to that of fatigue resistance after unloading and during reloading, suggesting a causal role of decreased mitochondrial function. Slow fiber contents in the soleus muscle were increased after 30–60 days of reloading to become significantly higher than the normal level, indicating a secondary adaption to compensate for the slow recovery of fatigue resistance. PMID:26447205

Effectiveness Analysis of a Part-Time Rapid Response System During Operation Versus Nonoperation.

PubMed

Kim, Youlim; Lee, Dong Seon; Min, Hyunju; Choi, Yun Young; Lee, Eun Young; Song, Inae; Park, Jong Sun; Cho, Young-Jae; Jo, You Hwan; Yoon, Ho Il; Lee, Jae Ho; Lee, Choon-Taek; Do, Sang Hwan; Lee, Yeon Joo

2017-06-01

To evaluate the effect of a part-time rapid response system on the occurrence rate of cardiopulmonary arrest by comparing the times of rapid response system operation versus nonoperation. Retrospective cohort study. A 1,360-bed tertiary care hospital. Adult patients admitted to the general ward were screened. Data were collected over 36 months from rapid response system implementation (October 2012 to September 2015) and more than 45 months before rapid response system implementation (January 2009 to September 2012). None. The rapid response system operates from 7 AM to 10 PM on weekdays and from 7 AM to 12 PM on Saturdays. Primary outcomes were the difference of cardiopulmonary arrest incidence between pre-rapid response system and post-rapid response system periods and whether the rapid response system operating time affects the cardiopulmonary arrest incidence. The overall cardiopulmonary arrest incidence (per 1,000 admissions) was 1.43. Although the number of admissions per month and case-mix index were increased (3,555.18 vs 4,564.72, p < 0.001; 1.09 vs 1.13, p = 0.001, respectively), the cardiopulmonary arrest incidence was significantly decreased after rapid response system (1.60 vs 1.23; p = 0.021), and mortality (%) was unchanged (1.38 vs 1.33; p = 0.322). After rapid response system implementation, the cardiopulmonary arrest incidence significantly decreased by 40% during rapid response system operating times (0.82 vs 0.49/1,000 admissions; p = 0.001) but remained similar during rapid response system nonoperating times (0.77 vs 0.73/1,000 admissions; p = 0.729). The implementation of a part-time rapid response system reduced the cardiopulmonary arrest incidence based on the reduction of cardiopulmonary arrest during rapid response system operating times. Further analysis of the cost effectiveness of part-time rapid response system is needed.

Tumor-induced osteomalacia with elevated fibroblast growth factor 23: a case of phosphaturic mesenchymal tumor mixed with connective tissue variants and review of the literature.

PubMed

Hu, Fang-Ke; Yuan, Fang; Jiang, Cheng-Ying; Lv, Da-Wei; Mao, Bei-Bei; Zhang, Qiang; Yuan, Zeng-Qiang; Wang, Yan

2011-11-01

Tumor-induced osteomalacia (TIO), or oncogenic osteomalacia (OOM), is a rare acquired paraneoplastic disease characterized by renal phosphate wasting and hypophosphatemia. Recent evidence shows that tumor-overexpressed fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) is responsible for the hypophosphatemia and osteomalacia. The tumors associated with TIO are usually phosphaturic mesenchymal tumor mixed connective tissue variants (PMTMCT). Surgical removal of the responsible tumors is clinically essential for the treatment of TIO. However, identifying the responsible tumors is often difficult. Here, we report a case of a TIO patient with elevated serum FGF23 levels suffering from bone pain and hypophosphatemia for more than three years. A tumor was finally located in first metacarpal bone by octreotide scintigraphy and she was cured by surgery. After complete excision of the tumor, serum FGF23 levels rapidly decreased, dropping to 54.7% of the preoperative level one hour after surgery and eventually to a little below normal. The patient's serum phosphate level rapidly improved and returned to normal level in four days. Accordingly, her clinical symptoms were greatly improved within one month after surgery. There was no sign of tumor recurrence during an 18-month period of follow-up. According to pathology, the tumor was originally diagnosed as "lomangioma" based upon a biopsy sample, "proliferative giant cell tumor of tendon sheath" based upon sections of tumor, and finally diagnosed as PMTMCT by consultation one year after surgery. In conclusion, although an extremely rare disease, clinicians and pathologists should be aware of the existence of TIO and PMTMCT, respectively.

Yield and seed oil content response of dwarf, rapid-cycling Brassica to nitrogen treatments, planting density, and carbon dioxide enrichment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Frick, J.; Nielsen, S. S.; Mitchell, C. A.

1994-01-01

Effects of N level (15 to 30 mM), time of N increase (14 to 28 days after planting), and planting density (1163 to 2093 plants/m2) were determined for crop yield responses of dwarf, rapid-cycling brassica (Brassica napus L., CrGC 5-2, Genome: ACaacc). Crops were grown in solid-matrix hydroponic systems and under controlled-environment conditions, including nonsupplemented (ambient) or elevated CO2 concentrations (998 +/- 12 micromoles mol-1). The highest seed yield rate obtained (4.4 g m-2 day-1) occurred with the lowest N level (15 mM) applied at the latest treatment time (day 28). In all trials, CO2 enrichment reduced seed yield rate and harvest index by delaying the onset of flowering and senescence and stimulating vegetative shoot growth. The highest shoot biomass accumulation rate (55.5 g m-2 day-1) occurred with the highest N level (30 mM) applied at the earliest time (day 14). Seed oil content was not significantly affected by CO2 enrichment. Maximum seed oil content (30% to 34%, dry weight basis) was obtained using the lowest N level (15 mM) initiated at the latest treatment time (day 28). In general, an increase in seed oil content was accompanied by a decrease in seed protein. Seed carbohydrate, moisture, and ash contents did not vary significantly in response to experimental treatments. Effects of N level and time of N increase were consistently significant for most crop responses. Planting density was significant only under elevated CO2 conditions.

Inositol induces a profound alteration in the pattern and rate of synthesis and turnover of membrane lipids in Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

PubMed

Gaspar, Maria L; Aregullin, Manuel A; Jesch, Stephen A; Henry, Susan A

2006-08-11

The addition of inositol to actively growing yeast cultures causes a rapid increase in the rate of synthesis of phosphatidylinositol and, simultaneously, triggers changes in the expression of hundreds of genes. We now demonstrate that the addition of inositol to yeast cells growing in the presence of choline leads to a dramatic reprogramming of cellular lipid synthesis and turnover. The response to inositol includes a 5-6-fold increase in cellular phosphatidylinositol content within a period of 30 min. The increase in phosphatidylinositol content appears to be dependent upon fatty acid synthesis. Phosphatidylcholine turnover increased rapidly following inositol addition, a response that requires the participation of Nte1p, an endoplasmic reticulum-localized phospholipase B. Mass spectrometry revealed that the acyl species composition of phosphatidylinositol is relatively constant regardless of supplementation with inositol or choline, whereas phosphatidylcholine acyl species composition is influenced by both inositol and choline. In medium containing inositol, but lacking choline, high levels of dimyristoylphosphatidylcholine were detected. Within 60 min following the addition of inositol, dimyristoylphosphatidylcholine levels had decreased from approximately 40% of total phosphatidylcholine to a basal level of less than 5%. nte1Delta cells grown in the absence of inositol and in the presence of choline exhibited lower levels of dimyristoylphosphatidylcholine than wild type cells grown under these same conditions, but these levels remained largely constant after the addition of inositol. These results are discussed in relationship to transcriptional regulation known to be linked to lipid metabolism in yeast.

Physical Health of Mothers with HIV/AIDS and the Mental Health of Their Children

PubMed Central

MURPHY, DEBRA A.; GREENWELL, LISA; MOUTTAPA, MICHELE; BRECHT, MARY-LYNN; SCHUSTER, MARK A.

2008-01-01

A longitudinal study was conducted on the psychological well-being of 81 young children (mean age = 8.8 years) living with mothers with AIDS or HIV-infected mothers with symptomatic disease. The relationship between mothers’ physical health and children’s psychological well-being was investigated. The children were assessed at seven time points over approximately 6 years. Individual growth models were estimated for children’s depression, anxiety, and aggressiveness in relation to: mothers’ viral load (medical records) and physical functioning, number of HIV-related physical symptoms, and medical visits due to illness (self-report). Results showed significant linear declines in children’s depression, anxiety, and aggressiveness over time. Lower levels of physical functioning and more physical symptoms among mothers were associated with higher levels of children’s depression, anxiety, and aggressiveness at baseline. Lower levels of physical functioning and more physical symptoms among mothers were associated with initially high but more rapidly decreasing levels of depression among children. However, mothers who began the study in better health appear to have changed in health more quickly than mothers who began the study in poorer health. Thus, stability in mothers’ health appears to be associated with a more rapid improvement in children’s mental health over time. Our findings suggest that the measures representing observable levels of, and changes in, mothers’ health that are most likely to be directly experienced by themselves and their children are the measures that are most predictive of changes in children’s mental health over time. PMID:17041275

Diet rapidly and reproducibly alters the human gut microbiome

PubMed Central

David, Lawrence A.; Maurice, Corinne F.; Carmody, Rachel N.; Gootenberg, David B.; Button, Julie E.; Wolfe, Benjamin E.; Ling, Alisha V.; Devlin, A. Sloan; Varma, Yug; Fischbach, Michael A.; Biddinger, Sudha B.; Dutton, Rachel J.; Turnbaugh, Peter J.

2013-01-01

Long-term diet influences the structure and activity of the trillions of microorganisms residing in the human gut1–5, but it remains unclear how rapidly and reproducibly the human gut microbiome responds to short-term macronutrient change. Here, we show that the short-term consumption of diets composed entirely of animal or plant products alters microbial community structure and overwhelms inter-individual differences in microbial gene expression. The animal-based diet increased the abundance of bile-tolerant microorganisms (Alistipes, Bilophila, and Bacteroides) and decreased the levels of Firmicutes that metabolize dietary plant polysaccharides (Roseburia, Eubacterium rectale, and Ruminococcus bromii). Microbial activity mirrored differences between herbivorous and carnivorous mammals2, reflecting trade-offs between carbohydrate and protein fermentation. Foodborne microbes from both diets transiently colonized the gut, including bacteria, fungi, and even viruses. Finally, increases in the abundance and activity of Bilophila wadsworthia on the animal-based diet support a link between dietary fat, bile acids, and the outgrowth of microorganisms capable of triggering inflammatory bowel disease6. In concert, these results demonstrate that the gut microbiome can rapidly respond to altered diet, potentially facilitating the diversity of human dietary lifestyles. PMID:24336217

Dealing with China's future population decline: a proposal for replacing low birth rates with sustainable rates.

PubMed

Cao, Shixiong; Wang, Xiuqing

2009-09-01

Decreasing population levels due to declining birth rates are becoming a potentially serious social problem in developed and rapidly developing countries. China urgently needed to reduce birth rates so that its population would decline to a sustainable level, and the family planning policy designed to achieve this goal has largely succeeded. However, continuing to pursue this policy is leading to serious, unanticipated problems such as a shift in the country's population distribution towards the elderly and increasing difficulty supporting that elderly population. Social and political changes that promoted low birth rates and the lack of effective policies to encourage higher birth rates suggest that mitigating the consequences of the predicted population decline will depend on a revised approach based on achieving sustainable birth rates.

Tafenoquine, an Antiplasmodial 8-Aminoquinoline, Targets Leishmania Respiratory Complex III and Induces Apoptosis ▿

PubMed Central

Carvalho, Luis; Luque-Ortega, Juan Román; Manzano, José Ignacio; Castanys, Santiago; Rivas, Luis; Gamarro, Francisco

2010-01-01

Tafenoquine (TFQ), an 8-aminoquinoline analogue of primaquine, which is currently under clinical trial (phase IIb/III) for the treatment and prevention of malaria, may represent an alternative treatment for leishmaniasis. In this work, we have studied the mechanism of action of TFQ against Leishmania parasites. TFQ impaired the overall bioenergetic metabolism of Leishmania promastigotes, causing a rapid drop in intracellular ATP levels without affecting plasma membrane permeability. TFQ induced mitochondrial dysfunction through the inhibition of cytochrome c reductase (respiratory complex III) with a decrease in the oxygen consumption rate and depolarization of mitochondrial membrane potential. This was accompanied by ROS production, elevation of intracellular Ca2+ levels and concomitant nuclear DNA fragmentation. We conclude that TFQ targets Leishmania mitochondria, leading to an apoptosis-like death process. PMID:20837758

Tafenoquine, an antiplasmodial 8-aminoquinoline, targets leishmania respiratory complex III and induces apoptosis.

PubMed

Carvalho, Luis; Luque-Ortega, Juan Román; Manzano, José Ignacio; Castanys, Santiago; Rivas, Luis; Gamarro, Francisco

2010-12-01

Tafenoquine (TFQ), an 8-aminoquinoline analogue of primaquine, which is currently under clinical trial (phase IIb/III) for the treatment and prevention of malaria, may represent an alternative treatment for leishmaniasis. In this work, we have studied the mechanism of action of TFQ against Leishmania parasites. TFQ impaired the overall bioenergetic metabolism of Leishmania promastigotes, causing a rapid drop in intracellular ATP levels without affecting plasma membrane permeability. TFQ induced mitochondrial dysfunction through the inhibition of cytochrome c reductase (respiratory complex III) with a decrease in the oxygen consumption rate and depolarization of mitochondrial membrane potential. This was accompanied by ROS production, elevation of intracellular Ca(2+) levels and concomitant nuclear DNA fragmentation. We conclude that TFQ targets Leishmania mitochondria, leading to an apoptosis-like death process.

[Effect of flavonoids of ginkgo biloba on anti-oxidizing system of mice after acute alcohol administration].

PubMed

Yao, Ping; Liu, Lie-Gang; Jia, Wen-Bo; Song, Fang-Fang; Zhou, Shaoliang; Zhang, Xiping; Sun, Xiufa

2005-05-01

To investigate the protective effects of flavonoids of ginkgo biloba on anti-oxidizing system damaged by acute alcohol administration. Adult male Kunming mice were employed and divided into randomly flavonoid intervention group, normal control and ethanol control group according to body weight. After pretreated with flavonoids of ginkgo biloba (96mg/kg bw), the mice in flavonoid intervention group ingested alcohol (ethanol 4.8g/kg bw) via i.g. and were decapitated after 0.5, 1, 2, 4, 6, 9, and 15 h of ethanol administration. The same treatment was carried out on ethanol control group except that physiological saline was applied instead of flavonoid of ginkgo biloba. Meanwhile, the normal control group was established. The concentration of glutathione (GSH), malondialdehyde (MDA) and the activity of glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), superoxide dismutase (SOD) in the serum and liver were determined. The experiment displays that the content of GSH and the activities of GSH-Px and SOD decreased rapidly after 1 h of treatment with alcohol and dropped to the lowest level at 4h of treatment. After 6h of treatment, these indexes came to the normal level rapidly. The level of MDA of serum and liver increased rapidly after 1 h of treatment and reached the climax at 4h and 6h respectively. It went back to the normal concentration until 15h and 9 h respectively. On a whole, there were similar curves between flavonoids intervention group and alcohol control group on the indexes. However, to some extent, the supplement of flavonoid of ginkgo biloba can prohibit the rise of MDA level and the decline of GSH-Px, SOD, GSH which were induced by acute alcohol intakes. Flavonoid of ginkgo biloba have some protective effects on the damage of anti-oxidizing system of mice induced by acute alcohol adminstration.

Polarization-Induced Interfacial Reactions between Nickel and Selenium in Ni/Zirconia SOFC Anodes and Comparison with Sulfur Poisoning

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

Marina, Olga A.; Pederson, Larry R.; Coyle, Christopher A.

2011-01-10

Three distinctly different characteristic responses of a nickel/yttria-stabilized zirconia (Ni/YSZ) cermet anode to the presence of hydrogen selenide in synthetic coal gas were observed, depending on temperature (650-800oC), H2Se concentration (0-40 ppm), and especially on the extent of anodic polarization (0 to ~0.5 V). The first level of response was characterized by a rapid but modest decrease in power density to a new steady state, with no further degradation observed in tests up to 700 hours in duration. Mostly observed at high temperatures, low H2Se concentrations, and low anodic polarizations, this response level was similar to effects caused by themore » presence of H2S, but with slower onset and lower reversibility. Higher anodic polarization at a constant current could trigger a second level of response characterized by oscillatory behavior involving cycles of rapid performance loss followed by rapid recovery. Oscillations at the constant current density were accompanied by the appearance and disappearance of a new feature in the electrochemical impedance spectrum with a summit frequency of ~100 Hz. Oscillatory behavior ceased when the current density was lowered. Such behavior was not observed for cells operated at a constant potential of similar magnitude, though. A third level of response, irreversible cell failure, could be induced by further increases in anodic polarization, additionally favored by low temperature and high H2Se concentration. Post-test analyses of failed cells by electron microscopy revealed the extensive microstructural changes including the appearance of nickel oxide and nickel selenide alteration phases, only at the anode/electrolyte interface. From bulk thermochemical considerations the formation of nickel selenides could not be expected. Local chemical conditions created at the anode/electrolyte interface appear to be of overriding importance with respect to the extent of Ni/YSZ anode interactions with H2Se in coal gas.« less

Sleep architecture changes during a trek from 1400 to 5000 m in the Nepal Himalaya.

PubMed

Johnson, Pamela L; Edwards, Natalie; Burgess, Keith R; Sullivan, Colin E

2010-03-01

The aim of this study was to examine sleep architecture at high altitude and its relationship to periodic breathing during incremental increases in altitude. Nineteen normal, sea level-dwelling volunteers were studied at sea level and five altitudes in the Nepal Himalaya. Morning arterial blood gases and overnight polysomnography were performed in 14 subjects at altitudes: 0, 1400, 3500, 3900, 4200 and 5000 m above sea level. Subjects became progressively more hypoxic, hypocapnic and alkalinic with increasing altitude. As expected, sleep architecture was affected by increasing altitude. While time spent in Stage 1 non-rapid eye movement sleep increased at 3500 m and higher (P < 0.001), time spent in slow-wave sleep (SWS) decreased as altitude increased. Time spent in rapid eye movement (REM) sleep was well preserved. In subjects who developed periodic breathing during sleep at one or more altitudes (16 of 19), arousals because of periodic breathing predominated, contributing to an increase in the total arousal index. However, there were no differences in sleep architecture or sleeping oxyhaemoglobin saturation between subjects who developed periodic breathing and those who did not. As altitude increased, sleep architecture became progressively more disturbed, with Stage 1 and SWS being affected from 3500 m, while REM sleep was well preserved. Periodic breathing was commonplace at all altitudes, and while associated with increases in arousal indices, did not have any apparent effect on sleep architecture.

Compilation of geohydrologic data collected as part of the areal appraisal of ground-water resources near Branson, Missouri

USGS Publications Warehouse

Imes, J.L.

1989-01-01

A rapidly developing retirement community and tourist industry in the Branson, Missouri area has created an increased demand for potable water, especially in the summer months. The rapid pace of residential and business expansion has created concerns regarding the future groundwater availability and quality. Water levels measured in the Ozark aquifer during the summer of 1988 and March 1989 show water levels increasing in 22 wells, decreasing in 2 wells, and remaining the same in 1 well. The water level increases ranged from 1 to 111 ft. These measurements and similar measurements during the summer of 1989 will be used to calibrate a three-dimensional model of groundwater flow in the Branson area and estimate the long-term effect of large groundwater withdrawals during the summer tourist season. A reconnaissance of water quality in 34 wells that are open to the Ozark aquifer shows specific conductance ranging from 347 to 841 microsiemens/cm at 25 C and no fecal coliform bacteria present in any well. Chloride and nitrate concentrations in all wells were well below the Missouri Department of Natural Resources recommended maximum concentrations of 250 mg/L and 10 mg/L, respectively. Analysis of 5 water samples for 33 volatile organic compounds failed to detect any concentrations in excess of the detection limits. (USGS)

Reduced length of hospital stay after the introduction of a rapid recovery protocol for primary THA procedures.

PubMed

den Hartog, Yvon M; Mathijssen, Nina M C; Vehmeijer, Stephan B W

2013-10-01

Rapid recovery protocols after total hip arthroplasty (THA) have been introduced worldwide in the last few years and they have reduced the length of hospital stay. We show the results of the introduction of a rapid recovery protocol for primary THA for unselected patients in our large teaching hospital. In a retrospective cohort study, we included all 1,180 patients who underwent a primary THA between July 1, 2008 and June 30, 2012. These patients were divided into 3 groups: patients operated before, during, and after the introduction of the rapid recovery protocol. There were no exclusion criteria. All complications, re-admissions, and reoperations were registered and analyzed. The mean length of hospital stay decreased from 4.6 to 2.9 nights after the introduction of the rapid recovery protocol. There were no statistically significant differences in the rate of complications, re-admissions, or reoperations between the 3 groups. In a large teaching hospital, the length of hospital stay decreased after introduction of our protocol for rapid recovery after THA in unselected patients, without any increase in complications, re-admissions, or reoperation rate.

The molecular mechanism of serum microRNA124b induced coronary heart disease by inducing myocardial cell senescence.

PubMed

Guo, M-L; Guo, L-L; Qin, Q-J; Weng, Y-Q; Wang, Y-N; Yao, J; Wang, Y-B; Zhang, X-Z; Ge, Z-M

2018-04-01

The incidence and mortality of coronary heart disease are rapidly increasing in recent years. Myocardial cell dysfunction and cell senescence may play a role in coronary heart disease. MicroRNA controls a variety of biological processes, but leaving its role in coronary heart disease has yet to be explored. Patients with coronary heart disease were regarded as subjects, and healthy volunteers as the control, on both of which microRNA124b level of serum was studied by Real-time PCR, and the heart function of patients was detected by using ultrasound. The relationship between serum microRNA124b level and cardiac function was analyzed along with the model of rat coronary artery disease; the level of aging proteins P21 and P53 in cardiac muscle cells was also tested. MicroRNA124b in the serum of patients with coronary heart disease was increased, and the heart function of patients was decreased (p < 0.05). Serum level of microRNA124b in a rat model of coronary heart disease was increased, and the cardiac function was decreased (p < 0.05). When myocardial cell appeared ageing, the level of P21 and P53 was increased, and the level of microRNA124b was related with P53. The level of microRNA124b in the serum of coronary heart disease patients and rat model may be related to the occurrence of coronary heart disease; microRNA124b may lead to the occurrence of coronary heart disease by causing cell senescence.

Global Metabolomic Analyses of the Hemolymph and Brain during the Initiation, Maintenance, and Termination of Pupal Diapause in the Cotton Bollworm, Helicoverpa armigera

PubMed Central

Lu, Yu-Xuan; Zhang, Qi; Xu, Wei-Hua

2014-01-01

A strategy known as diapause (developmental arrest) has evolved in insects to increase their survival rate under harsh environmental conditions. Diapause causes a dramatic reduction in the metabolic rate and drastically extends lifespan. However, little is known about the mechanisms underlying the metabolic changes involved. Using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, we compared the changes in the metabolite levels in the brain and hemolymph of nondiapause- and diapause-destined cotton bollworm, Helicoverpa armigera, during the initiation, maintenance, and termination of pupal diapause. A total of 55 metabolites in the hemolymph and 52 metabolites in the brain were detected. Of these metabolites, 21 and 12 metabolite levels were altered in the diapause pupal hemolymph and brain, respectively. During diapause initiation and maintenance, the number of metabolites with increased levels in the hemolymph of the diapausing pupae is far greater than the number in the nondiapause pupae. These increased metabolites function as an energy source, metabolic intermediates, and cryoprotectants. The number of metabolites with decreased levels in the brain of diapausing pupae is far greater than the number in the nondiapause pupae. Low metabolite levels are likely to directly or indirectly repress the brain metabolic activity. During diapause termination, most of the metabolite levels in the hemolymph of the diapausing pupae rapidly decrease because they function as energy and metabolic sources that promote pupa-adult development. In conclusion, the metabolites with altered levels in the hemolymph and brain serve as energy and metabolic resources and help to maintain a low brain metabolic activity during diapause. PMID:24926789

Cerebrospinal fluid neopterin decay characteristics after initiation of antiretroviral therapy.

PubMed

Yilmaz, Aylin; Yiannoutsos, Constantin T; Fuchs, Dietmar; Price, Richard W; Crozier, Kathryn; Hagberg, Lars; Spudich, Serena; Gisslén, Magnus

2013-05-10

Neopterin, a biomarker of macrophage activation, is elevated in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of most HIV-infected individuals and decreases after initiation of antiretroviral therapy (ART). We studied decay characteristics of neopterin in CSF and blood after commencement of ART in HIV-infected subjects and estimated the set-point levels of CSF neopterin after ART-mediated viral suppression. CSF and blood neopterin were longitudinally measured in 102 neurologically asymptomatic HIV-infected subjects who were treatment-naïve or had been off ART for ≥ 6 months. We used a non-linear model to estimate neopterin decay in response to ART and a stable neopterin set-point attained after prolonged ART. Seven subjects with HIV-associated dementia (HAD) who initiated ART were studied for comparison. Non-HAD patients were followed for a median 84.7 months. Though CSF neopterin concentrations decreased rapidly after ART initiation, it was estimated that set-point levels would be below normal CSF neopterin levels (<5.8 nmol/L) in only 60/102 (59%) of these patients. Pre-ART CSF neopterin was the primary predictor of set-point (P <0.001). HAD subjects had higher baseline median CSF neopterin levels than non-HAD subjects (P <0.0001). Based on the non-HAD model, only 14% of HAD patients were predicted to reach normal levels. After virologically suppressive ART, abnormal CSF neopterin levels persisted in 41% of non-HAD and the majority of HAD patients. ART is not fully effective in ameliorating macrophage activation in CNS as well as blood, especially in subjects with higher pre-ART levels of immune activation.

Down-regulation of adipose tissue lipoprotein lipase during fasting requires that a gene, separate from the lipase gene, is switched on.

PubMed

Bergö, Martin; Wu, Gengshu; Ruge, Toralph; Olivecrona, Thomas

2002-04-05

During short term fasting, lipoprotein lipase (LPL) activity in rat adipose tissue is rapidly down-regulated. This down-regulation occurs on a posttranslational level; it is not accompanied by changes in LPL mRNA or protein levels. The LPL activity can be restored within 4 h by refeeding. Previously, we showed that during fasting there is a shift in the distribution of lipase protein toward an inactive form with low heparin affinity. To study the nature of the regulatory mechanism, we determined the in vivo turnover of LPL activity, protein mass, and mRNA in rat adipose tissue. When protein synthesis was inhibited with cycloheximide, LPL activity and protein mass decreased rapidly and in parallel with half-lives of around 2 h, and the effect of refeeding was blocked. This indicates that maintaining high levels of LPL activity requires continuous synthesis of new enzyme protein. When transcription was inhibited by actinomycin, LPL mRNA decreased with half-lives of 13.3 and 16.8 h in the fed and fasted states, respectively, demonstrating slow turnover of the LPL transcript. Surprisingly, when actinomycin was given to fed rats, LPL activity was not down-regulated during fasting, indicating that actinomycin interferes with the transcription of a gene that blocks the activation of newly synthesized LPL protein. When actinomycin was given to fasted rats, LPL activity increased 4-fold within 6 h, even in the absence of refeeding. The same effect was seen with alpha-amanitin, another inhibitor of transcription. The response to actinomycin was much less pronounced in aging rats, which are obese and insulin-resistant. These data suggest a default state where LPL protein is synthesized on a relatively stable mRNA and is processed into its active form. During fasting, a gene is switched on whose product prevents the enzyme from becoming active even though synthesis of LPL protein continues unabated.

Eyelid Opening with Trigeminal Proprioceptive Activation Regulates a Brainstem Arousal Mechanism.

PubMed

Matsuo, Kiyoshi; Ban, Ryokuya; Hama, Yuki; Yuzuriha, Shunsuke

2015-01-01

Eyelid opening stretches mechanoreceptors in the supratarsal Müller muscle to activate the proprioceptive fiber supplied by the trigeminal mesencephalic nucleus. This proprioception induces reflex contractions of the slow-twitch fibers in the levator palpebrae superioris and frontalis muscles to sustain eyelid and eyebrow positions against gravity. The cell bodies of the trigeminal proprioceptive neurons in the mesencephalon potentially make gap-junctional connections with the locus coeruleus neurons. The locus coeruleus is implicated in arousal and autonomic function. Due to the relationship between arousal, ventromedial prefrontal cortex, and skin conductance, we assessed whether upgaze with trigeminal proprioceptive evocation activates sympathetically innervated sweat glands and the ventromedial prefrontal cortex. Specifically, we examined whether 60° upgaze induces palmar sweating and hemodynamic changes in the prefrontal cortex in 16 subjects. Sweating was monitored using a thumb-mounted perspiration meter, and prefrontal cortex activity was measured with 45-channel, functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) and 2-channel NIRS at Fp1 and Fp2. In 16 subjects, palmar sweating was induced by upgaze and decreased in response to downgaze. Upgaze activated the ventromedial prefrontal cortex with an accumulation of integrated concentration changes in deoxyhemoglobin, oxyhemoglobin, and total hemoglobin levels in 12 subjects. Upgaze phasically and degree-dependently increased deoxyhemoglobin level at Fp1 and Fp2, whereas downgaze phasically decreased it in 16 subjects. Unilateral anesthetization of mechanoreceptors in the supratarsal Müller muscle used to significantly reduce trigeminal proprioceptive evocation ipsilaterally impaired the increased deoxyhemoglobin level by 60° upgaze at Fp1 or Fp2 in 6 subjects. We concluded that upgaze with strong trigeminal proprioceptive evocation was sufficient to phasically activate sympathetically innervated sweat glands and appeared to induce rapid oxygen consumption in the ventromedial prefrontal cortex and to rapidly produce deoxyhemoglobin to regulate physiological arousal. Thus, eyelid opening with trigeminal proprioceptive evocation may activate the ventromedial prefrontal cortex via the mesencephalic trigeminal nucleus and locus coeruleus.

Assessing the effects of urbanization on the environment with soil legacy and current-use insecticides: a case study in the Pearl River Delta, China.

PubMed

Wei, Yan-Li; Bao, Lian-Jun; Wu, Chen-Chou; He, Zai-Cheng; Zeng, Eddy Y

2015-05-01

To evaluate the impacts of anthropogenic events on the rapid urbanized environment, the levels of legacy organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) and current-use insecticides (CUPs), i.e., dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane and its metabolites (DDTs), hexachlorocyclohexanes (HCHs), pyrethroids and organophosphates in soil of the Pearl River Delta (PRD) and surrounding areas were examined. Spatial concentration distributions of legacy OCPs and CUPs shared similar patterns, with higher concentrations occurred in the central PRD with more urbanization level than that in the PRD's surrounding areas. Furthermore, relatively higher concentrations of OCPs and CUPs were found in the residency land than in other land-use types, which may be attributed to land-use change under rapid urbanization. Moderate correlations between gross domestic production or population density and insecticide levels in fifteen administrative districts indicated that insecticide spatial distributions may be driven by economic prosperity. The soil-air diffusive exchanges of DDTs and HCHs demonstrated that soil was a sink of atmospheric o,p'-DDE, o,p'-DDD, p,p'-DDD and o,p'-DDT, and was a secondary source of HCHs and p,p'-DDT to atmosphere. The soil inventories of DDTs and HCHs (100 ± 134 and 83 ± 70 tons) were expected to decrease to half of their current values after 18 and 13 years, respectively, whereas the amounts of pyrethroids and organophosphates (39 and 6.2 tons) in soil were estimated to decrease after 4 and 2 years and then increase to 87 and 1.0 tons after 100 years. In this scenario, local residents in the PRD and surrounding areas will expose to the high health risk for pyrethroids by 2109. Strict ban on the use of technical DDTs and HCHs and proper training of famers to use insecticides may be the most effective ways to alleviate the health effect of soil contamination. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The importance of relative humidity and trophic resources in governing ecological niche of the invasive carabid beetle Merizodus soledadinus in the Kerguelen archipelago.

PubMed

Ouisse, Tiphaine; Bonte, Dries; Lebouvier, Marc; Hendrickx, Frederik; Renault, David

Comprehensive studies to identify species-specific drivers of survival to environmental stress, reproduction, growth, and recruitment are vital to gaining a better understanding of the main ecological factors shaping species habitat distribution and dispersal routes. The present study performed a field-based assessment of habitat distribution in the invasive carabid beetle Merizodus soledadinus for the Kerguelen archipelago. The results emphasised humid habitats as a key element of the insect's realised niche. In addition, insects faced food and water stress during dispersal events. We evaluated quantitatively how water availability and trophic resources governed the spatial distribution of this invasive predatory insect at Îles Kerguelen. Food and water stress survival durations [in 100%, 70%, and 30% relative humidity (RH) conditions] and changes in a set of primary metabolic compounds (metabolomics) were determined. Adult M. soledadinus supplied with water ad libitum were highly tolerant to prolonged starvation (LT 50 =51.7±6.2d). However, food-deprived insect survival decreased rapidly in moderate (70% RH, LT 50 =30.37±1.39h) and low (30% RH, LT 50 =13.03±0.48h) RH conditions. Consistently, body water content decreased rapidly in insects exposed to 70% and 30% RH. Metabolic variation evidenced the effects of food deprivation in control insects (exposed to 100% RH), which exhibited a progressive decline of most glycolytic sugars and tricarboxylic acid cycle intermediates. Most metabolite levels were elevated levels during the first few hours of exposure to 30% and 70% RH. Augmented alanine and lactate levels suggested a shift to anaerobic metabolism. Simultaneously, peaks in threonine and glycolytic sugars pointed to metabolic disruption and a progressive physiological breakdown in dehydrating individuals. Overall, the results of our study indicate that the geographic distribution of M. soledadinus populations is highly dependent on habitat RH and water accessibility. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Evaluation of water-use efficiency in foxtail millet (Setaria italica) using visible-near infrared and thermal spectral sensing techniques.

PubMed

Wang, Meng; Ellsworth, Patrick Z; Zhou, Jianfeng; Cousins, Asaph B; Sankaran, Sindhuja

2016-05-15

Water limitations decrease stomatal conductance (g(s)) and, in turn, photosynthetic rate (A(net)), resulting in decreased crop productivity. The current techniques for evaluating these physiological responses are limited to leaf-level measures acquired by measuring leaf-level gas exchange. In this regard, proximal sensing techniques can be a useful tool in studying plant biology as they can be used to acquire plant-level measures in a high-throughput manner. However, to confidently utilize the proximal sensing technique for high-throughput physiological monitoring, it is important to assess the relationship between plant physiological parameters and the sensor data. Therefore, in this study, the application of rapid sensing techniques based on thermal imaging and visual-near infrared spectroscopy for assessing water-use efficiency (WUE) in foxtail millet (Setaria italica (L.) P. Beauv) was evaluated. The visible-near infrared spectral reflectance (350-2500 nm) and thermal (7.5-14 µm) data were collected at regular intervals from well-watered and drought-stressed plants in combination with other leaf physiological parameters (transpiration rate-E, A(net), g(s), leaf carbon isotopic signature-δ(13)C(leaf), WUE). Partial least squares regression (PLSR) analysis was used to predict leaf physiological measures based on the spectral data. The PLSR modeling on the hyperspectral data yielded accurate and precise estimates of leaf E, gs, δ(13)C(leaf), and WUE with coefficient of determination in a range of 0.85-0.91. Additionally, significant differences in average leaf temperatures (~1°C) measured with a thermal camera were observed between well-watered plants and drought-stressed plants. In summary, the visible-near infrared reflectance data, and thermal images can be used as a potential rapid technique for evaluating plant physiological responses such as WUE. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Eyelid Opening with Trigeminal Proprioceptive Activation Regulates a Brainstem Arousal Mechanism

PubMed Central

Matsuo, Kiyoshi; Ban, Ryokuya; Hama, Yuki; Yuzuriha, Shunsuke

2015-01-01

Eyelid opening stretches mechanoreceptors in the supratarsal Müller muscle to activate the proprioceptive fiber supplied by the trigeminal mesencephalic nucleus. This proprioception induces reflex contractions of the slow-twitch fibers in the levator palpebrae superioris and frontalis muscles to sustain eyelid and eyebrow positions against gravity. The cell bodies of the trigeminal proprioceptive neurons in the mesencephalon potentially make gap-junctional connections with the locus coeruleus neurons. The locus coeruleus is implicated in arousal and autonomic function. Due to the relationship between arousal, ventromedial prefrontal cortex, and skin conductance, we assessed whether upgaze with trigeminal proprioceptive evocation activates sympathetically innervated sweat glands and the ventromedial prefrontal cortex. Specifically, we examined whether 60° upgaze induces palmar sweating and hemodynamic changes in the prefrontal cortex in 16 subjects. Sweating was monitored using a thumb-mounted perspiration meter, and prefrontal cortex activity was measured with 45-channel, functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) and 2-channel NIRS at Fp1 and Fp2. In 16 subjects, palmar sweating was induced by upgaze and decreased in response to downgaze. Upgaze activated the ventromedial prefrontal cortex with an accumulation of integrated concentration changes in deoxyhemoglobin, oxyhemoglobin, and total hemoglobin levels in 12 subjects. Upgaze phasically and degree-dependently increased deoxyhemoglobin level at Fp1 and Fp2, whereas downgaze phasically decreased it in 16 subjects. Unilateral anesthetization of mechanoreceptors in the supratarsal Müller muscle used to significantly reduce trigeminal proprioceptive evocation ipsilaterally impaired the increased deoxyhemoglobin level by 60° upgaze at Fp1 or Fp2 in 6 subjects. We concluded that upgaze with strong trigeminal proprioceptive evocation was sufficient to phasically activate sympathetically innervated sweat glands and appeared to induce rapid oxygen consumption in the ventromedial prefrontal cortex and to rapidly produce deoxyhemoglobin to regulate physiological arousal. Thus, eyelid opening with trigeminal proprioceptive evocation may activate the ventromedial prefrontal cortex via the mesencephalic trigeminal nucleus and locus coeruleus. PMID:26244675

Biochemical, hydrological and mechanical behaviors of high food waste content MSW landfill: Liquid-gas interactions observed from a large-scale experiment.

PubMed

Zhan, Liang-Tong; Xu, Hui; Chen, Yun-Min; Lan, Ji-Wu; Lin, Wei-An; Xu, Xiao-Bing; He, Pin-Jing

2017-10-01

The high food waste content (HFWC) MSW at a landfill has the characteristics of rapid hydrolysis process, large leachate production rate and fast gas generation. The liquid-gas interactions at HFWC-MSW landfills are prominent and complex, and still remain significant challenges. This paper focuses on the liquid-gas interactions of HFWC-MSW observed from a large-scale bioreactor landfill experiment (5m×5m×7.5m). Based on the connected and quantitative analyses on the experimental observations, the following findings were obtained: (1) The high leachate level observed at Chinese landfills was attributed to the combined contribution from the great quantity of self-released leachate, waste compression and gas entrapped underwater. The contribution from gas entrapped underwater was estimated to be 21-28% of the total leachate level. (2) The gas entrapped underwater resulted in a reduction of hydraulic conductivity, decreasing by one order with an increase in gas content from 13% to 21%. (3) The "breakthrough value" in the gas accumulation zone was up to 11kPa greater than the pore liquid pressure. The increase of the breakthrough value was associated with the decrease of void porosity induced by surcharge loading. (4) The self-released leachate from HFWC-MSW was estimated to contribute to over 30% of the leachate production at landfills in Southern China. The drainage of leachate with a high organic loading in the rapid hydrolysis stage would lead to a loss of landfill gas (LFG) potential of 13%. Based on the above findings, an improved method considering the quantity of self-released leachate was proposed for the prediction of leachate production at HFWC-MSW landfills. In addition, a three-dimensional drainage system was proposed to drawdown the high leachate level and hence to improve the slope stability of a landfill, reduce the hydraulic head on a bottom liner and increase the collection efficiency for LFG. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Application of flow cytometry with a fluorescent dye to measurement of intracellular nitric oxide in plant cells.

PubMed

Kępczyński, Jan; Cembrowska-Lech, Danuta

2018-04-27

A simple and rapid method involving flow cytometry and NO-specific probe (DAF-FM DA) proved useful for detection and determination of intracellular NO production in Medicago truncatula suspension cells and leaves as well as in cells of Avena fatua, Amaranthus retroflexus embryos and leaves. The measurement of nitric oxide (NO) in plant material is important for examining the regulatory roles of endogenous NO in various physiological processes. The possibility of detecting and determining intracellular NO production by flow cytometry (FCM) with 4-amino-5-methylamino-2',7'-difluorofluorescein (DAF-FM DA), an NO-specific probe in Medicago truncatula cells in suspension and leaves as well as in cells of embryos and leaves of Avena fatua L. or Amaranthus retroflexus L. was explored. To detect and measure NO production by cell suspension or embryos and leaves, the recommended DAF-FM DA concentration is 5 or 10 µM, respectively, applied for 30 min. Exogenous NO increased the intensity of the fluorescent signal in embryos and leaves of both plants, while carboxy-PTIO (cPTIO), an NO scavenger, decreased it. Thus, these results demonstrate that NO can be detected and an increase and a decrease of its intracellular level can be estimated. Wounding was observed to increase the fluorescence signal, indicating an increase in the intracellular NO level. In addition, the levels of exogenous and endogenous ascorbic acid were demonstrated to have no effect on the NO-related fluorescence signal, indicating the signal's specificity only in relation with NO. The applicability of the proposed method for detection and determination of NO was confirmed (1) by in situ NO imaging in cell suspensions and (2) by determining the NO concentration in embryos and leaves using the Griess reagent. In view of the data obtained, FCM is recommended as a rapid and simple method with which to detect and determine intracellular NO production in plant cells.

Within-host evolution decreases virulence in an opportunistic bacterial pathogen.

PubMed

Mikonranta, Lauri; Mappes, Johanna; Laakso, Jouni; Ketola, Tarmo

2015-08-19

Pathogens evolve in a close antagonistic relationship with their hosts. The conventional theory proposes that evolution of virulence is highly dependent on the efficiency of direct host-to-host transmission. Many opportunistic pathogens, however, are not strictly dependent on the hosts due to their ability to reproduce in the free-living environment. Therefore it is likely that conflicting selection pressures for growth and survival outside versus within the host, rather than transmission potential, shape the evolution of virulence in opportunists. We tested the role of within-host selection in evolution of virulence by letting a pathogen Serratia marcescens db11 sequentially infect Drosophila melanogaster hosts and then compared the virulence to strains that evolved only in the outside-host environment. We found that the pathogen adapted to both Drosophila melanogaster host and novel outside-host environment, leading to rapid evolutionary changes in the bacterial life-history traits including motility, in vitro growth rate, biomass yield, and secretion of extracellular proteases. Most significantly, selection within the host led to decreased virulence without decreased bacterial load while the selection lines in the outside-host environment maintained the same level of virulence with ancestral bacteria. This experimental evidence supports the idea that increased virulence is not an inevitable consequence of within-host adaptation even when the epidemiological restrictions are removed. Evolution of attenuated virulence could occur because of immune evasion within the host. Alternatively, rapid fluctuation between outside-host and within-host environments, which is typical for the life cycle of opportunistic bacterial pathogens, could lead to trade-offs that lower pathogen virulence.

Transient Three-Dimensional Side Load Analysis of a Film Cooled Nozzle

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wang, Ten-See; Guidos, Mike

2008-01-01

Transient three-dimensional numerical investigations on the side load physics for an engine encompassing a film cooled nozzle extension and a regeneratively cooled thrust chamber, were performed. The objectives of this study are to identify the three-dimensional side load physics and to compute the associated aerodynamic side load using an anchored computational methodology. The computational methodology is based on an unstructured-grid, pressure-based computational fluid dynamics formulation, and a transient inlet history based on an engine system simulation. Ultimately, the computational results will be provided to the nozzle designers for estimating of effect of the peak side load on the nozzle structure. Computations simulating engine startup at ambient pressures corresponding to sea level and three high altitudes were performed. In addition, computations for both engine startup and shutdown transients were also performed for a stub nozzle, operating at sea level. For engine with the full nozzle extension, computational result shows starting up at sea level, the peak side load occurs when the lambda shock steps into the turbine exhaust flow, while the side load caused by the transition from free-shock separation to restricted-shock separation comes at second; and the side loads decreasing rapidly and progressively as the ambient pressure decreases. For the stub nozzle operating at sea level, the computed side loads during both startup and shutdown becomes very small due to the much reduced flow area.

Effect of Sodium Nitrite on Toxin Production by Clostridium botulinum in bacon

PubMed Central

Christiansen, L. N.; Tompkin, R. B.; Shaparis, A. B.; Kueper, T. V.; Johnston, R. W.; Kautter, D. A.; Kolari, O. J.

1974-01-01

Pork bellies were formulated to 0, 30, 60, 120, 170, or 340 μg of nitrite per g of meat and inoculated with Clostridium botulinum via pickle or after processing and slicing. Processed bacon was stored at 7 or 27 C and assayed for nitrite, nitrate, and botulinal toxin at different intervals. Nitrite levels declined during processing and storage. The rate of decrease was more rapid at 27 than at 7 C. Although not added to the system, nitrate was detected in samples during processing and storage at 7 and 27 C. The amount of nitrate found was related to formulated nitrite levels. No toxin was found in samples incubated at 7 C throughout the 84-day test period. At 27 C, via pickle, inoculated samples with low inoculum (210 C. botulinum per g before processing and 52 per g after processing) became toxic if formulated with 120 μg of nitrite per g of meat or less. Toxin was not detected in bacon formulated with 170 or 340 μg of nitrite per g of meat under these same conditions. Toxin was detected at all formulated nitrite levels in bacon inoculated via the pickle with 19,000 C. botulinum per g (4,300 per g after processing) and in samples inoculated after slicing. However, increased levels of formulated nitrite decreased the probability of botulinal toxin formation in bacon inoculated by both methods. PMID:4596753

Effect of sodium nitrite on toxin production by Clostridium botulinum in bacon.

PubMed

Christiansen, L N; Tompkin, R B; Shaparis, A B; Kueper, T V; Johnston, R W; Kautter, D A; Kolari, O J

1974-04-01

Pork bellies were formulated to 0, 30, 60, 120, 170, or 340 mug of nitrite per g of meat and inoculated with Clostridium botulinum via pickle or after processing and slicing. Processed bacon was stored at 7 or 27 C and assayed for nitrite, nitrate, and botulinal toxin at different intervals. Nitrite levels declined during processing and storage. The rate of decrease was more rapid at 27 than at 7 C. Although not added to the system, nitrate was detected in samples during processing and storage at 7 and 27 C. The amount of nitrate found was related to formulated nitrite levels. No toxin was found in samples incubated at 7 C throughout the 84-day test period. At 27 C, via pickle, inoculated samples with low inoculum (210 C. botulinum per g before processing and 52 per g after processing) became toxic if formulated with 120 mug of nitrite per g of meat or less. Toxin was not detected in bacon formulated with 170 or 340 mug of nitrite per g of meat under these same conditions. Toxin was detected at all formulated nitrite levels in bacon inoculated via the pickle with 19,000 C. botulinum per g (4,300 per g after processing) and in samples inoculated after slicing. However, increased levels of formulated nitrite decreased the probability of botulinal toxin formation in bacon inoculated by both methods.

Rapid C-reactive protein and white cell tests decrease cost and shorten emergency visits.

PubMed

Kokko, Eeva; Korppi, Matti; Helminen, Merja; Hutri-Kähönen, Nina

2014-10-01

Elevated white blood cells (WBC) in blood and C-reactive protein (CRP) in serum are often used as non-specific markers for bacterial etiology of infection in children. The aim of the present study was to evaluate how rapid WBC and CRP testing influences patient flow and cost in the pediatric emergency room (ER). This study was a retrospective chart review. In all, 166 children who were treated during 3 months in the ER of a children's hospital, and in whom rapid tests for WBC and CRP were done, were included. The association between rapid testing and length of ER stay was evaluated, and the cost of rapid tests was compared with the corresponding cost if done in the hospital laboratory. Median ER stay was 147.5 min, if no examinations other than rapid CRP and WBC tests were done and if no emergency treatment was given, compared with 201.5 min for laboratory tests or emergency treatment given (P < 0.001). The respective figures were 142.5 min and 179.5 min in those 96 children discharged home (P = 0.003). The cost of rapid testing was only 41.5% of the corresponding laboratory cost. The simultaneous rapid testing of CRP and WBC in children with presumable infection decreased cost and shortened the length of ER stay, if no other examinations or emergency treatment were needed. The cost of rapid testing was less than half of the corresponding cost in laboratory. © 2014 Japan Pediatric Society.

[Evaluation of a rapid diagnostic test in the diagnosis of toxoplasmosis in pregnant women in Cotonou (Bénin)].

PubMed

Ogouyèmi-Hounto, A; Agbayahoun-Chokki, F; Sissinto Savi de Tove, Y; Biokou Bankole, B; Adinsi de Souza, V; Assogba, M; Kinde-Gazard, D; Massougbodji, A

2014-05-01

The aim of the study was to evaluate the performance of the ImmunoComb® Toxo IgG and ImmunoComb® Toxo IgMassays (rapid diagnostic test) in the laboratory diagnosis of toxoplasmosis in pregnant women in Cotonou. We interviewed 266 pregnant women, who first answered an epidemiological questionnaire, and collected blood samples for measurement of IgG and IgM anti T. gondii antibodies with the ImmunoComb toxo assays and with the ARCHITECT CIMA method. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive values (PPV) and negative predictive values (NPV) were calculated to determine the performance of the rapid test. The seroprevalences of IgG against T. gondii by CIMA technique and rapid test were respectively 48.9% and 48.5%. The prevalence increased with age. Performances for IgG were: sensitivity 97%, specificity 100%, PPV 100%, NPV = 97.10%. For IgM, Sensitivity: 33.3% Specificity: 100%, PPV 100%, NPV = 99.2%. Seroprevalence obtained shows that about half of the study population is not immune against T. gondii and requires regular serological monitoring until delivery. According to these results, and given the needs of toxoplasmosis diagnosis on the field characterized by an important decrease of immunized women, this test may be recommended in the laboratory diagnosis of toxoplasmosis in peripheral levels of the health pyramid.

Increased mitochondrial-encoded gene transcription in immortal DF-1 cells.

PubMed

Kim, H; You, S; Kim, I J; Farris, J; Foster, L K; Foster, D N

2001-05-01

We have established, in continuous cell culture, a spontaneously immortalized chicken embryo fibroblast (CEF) cell line (DF-1) as well as several other immortal CEF cell lines. The immortal DF-1 cells divided more rapidly than primary and other immortal CEF cells. To identify the genes involved in rapidly dividing DF-1 cells, we have used differential display RT-PCR. Of the numerous genes analyzed, three mitochondrial-encoded genes (ATPase 8/6, 16S rRNA, and cytochrome b) were shown to express at higher levels in DF-1 cells compared to primary and other immortal CEF cells. The inhibition of mitochondrial translation by treatment with chloramphenicol markedly decreased ATP production and cell proliferation in DF-1 cells, while not affecting growth in either primary or other immortal CEF cells. This result suggests a correlation between rapid cell proliferation and the increased mitochondrial respiratory functions. We also determined that the increased transcription of mitochondrial-encoded genes in DF-1 cells is due to increased de novo transcript synthesis as shown by mitochondrial run-on assays, and not the result of either increased mitochondrial biogenesis or mitochondrial transcript half-lives. Together, the present studies suggest that the transcriptional activation of mitochondrial-encoded genes and the elevated respiratory function should be one of the characteristics of rapidly dividing immortal cells. Copyright 2001 Academic Press.

El Nino influence on Holocene reef accretion in Hawai'i

USGS Publications Warehouse

Rooney, J.; Fletcher, C.; Grossman, E.; Engels, M.; Field, M.

2004-01-01

New observations of reef accretion from several locations show that in Hawai'i accretion during early to middle Holocene time occurred in areas where today it is precluded by the wave regime, suggesting an increase in wave energy. Accretion of coral and coralline algae reefs in the Hawaiian Islands today is largely controlled by wave energy. Many coastal areas in the main Hawaiian Islands are periodically exposed to large waves, in particular from North Pacific swell and hurricanes. These are of sufficient intensity to prevent modern net accretion as evidenced by the antecedent nature of the seafloor. Only in areas sheltered from intense wave energy is active accretion observed. Analysis of reef cores reveals patterns of rapid early Holocene accretion in several locations that terminated by middle Holocene time, ca. 5000 yr ago. Previous analyses have suggested that changes in Holocene accretion were a result of reef growth "catching up" to sea level. New data and interpretations indicate that the end of reef accretion in the middle Holocene may be influenced by factors in addition to sea level. Reef accretion histories from the islands of Kaua'i, O'ahu, and Moloka'i may be interpreted to suggest that a change in wave energy contributed to the reduction or termination of Holocene accretion by 5000 yr ago in some areas. In these cases, the decrease in reef accretion occurred before the best estimates of the decrease in relative sea-level rise during the mid-Holocene high stand of sea level in the main Hawaiian Islands. However, reef accretion should decrease following the termination of relative sea-level rise (ca. 3000 yr ago) if reef growth were "catching up" to sea level. Evidence indicates that rapid accretion occurred at these sites in early Holocene time and that no permanent accretion is occurring at these sites today. This pattern persists despite the availability of hard substrate suitable for colonization at a wide range of depths between -30 m and the intertidal zone. We infer that forcing other than relative sea-level rise has altered the natural ability to support reef accretion on Hawaiian insular shelves. The limiting factor in these areas today is wave energy. Numbers of both large North Pacific swell events and hurricanes in Hawai'i are greater during El Nino years. We infer that if these major reef-limiting forces were suppressed, net accretion would occur in some areas in Hawai'i that are now wave-limited. Studies have shown that El Nino/Southern Oscillation (ENSO) was significantly weakened during early-mid Holocene time, only attaining an intensity similar to the current one ca. 5000 yr ago. We speculate that this shift in ENSO may assist in explaining patterns of Holocene Hawaiian reef accretion that are different from those of the present and apparently not related to relative sen-level rise.

Alteration of Proteins and Pigments Influence the Function of Photosystem I under Iron Deficiency from Chlamydomonas reinhardtii

PubMed Central

Yadavalli, Venkateswarlu; Jolley, Craig C.; Malleda, Chandramouli; Thangaraj, Balakumar; Fromme, Petra; Subramanyam, Rajagopal

2012-01-01

Background Iron is an essential micronutrient for all organisms because it is a component of enzyme cofactors that catalyze redox reactions in fundamental metabolic processes. Even though iron is abundant on earth, it is often present in the insoluble ferric [Fe (III)] state, leaving many surface environments Fe-limited. The haploid green alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii is used as a model organism for studying eukaryotic photosynthesis. This study explores structural and functional changes in PSI-LHCI supercomplexes under Fe deficiency as the eukaryotic photosynthetic apparatus adapts to Fe deficiency. Results 77K emission spectra and sucrose density gradient data show that PSI and LHCI subunits are affected under iron deficiency conditions. The visible circular dichroism (CD) spectra associated with strongly-coupled chlorophyll dimers increases in intensity. The change in CD signals of pigments originates from the modification of interactions between pigment molecules. Evidence from sucrose gradients and non-denaturing (green) gels indicates that PSI-LHCI levels were reduced after cells were grown for 72 h in Fe-deficient medium. Ultrafast fluorescence spectroscopy suggests that red-shifted pigments in the PSI-LHCI antenna were lost during Fe stress. Further, denaturing gel electrophoresis and immunoblot analysis reveals that levels of the PSI subunits PsaC and PsaD decreased, while PsaE was completely absent after Fe stress. The light harvesting complexes were also susceptible to iron deficiency, with Lhca1 and Lhca9 showing the most dramatic decreases. These changes in the number and composition of PSI-LHCI supercomplexes may be caused by reactive oxygen species, which increase under Fe deficiency conditions. Conclusions Fe deficiency induces rapid reduction of the levels of photosynthetic pigments due to a decrease in chlorophyll synthesis. Chlorophyll is important not only as a light-harvesting pigment, but also has a structural role, particularly in the pigment-rich LHCI subunits. The reduced level of chlorophyll molecules inhibits the formation of large PSI-LHCI supercomplexes, further decreasing the photosynthetic efficiency. PMID:22514709

Population-level coordination of pigment response in individual cyanobacterial cells under altered nitrogen levels

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

Murton, Jaclyn; Nagarajan, Aparna; Nguyen, Amelia Y.

Cyanobacterial phycobilisome (PBS) pigment-protein complexes harvest light and transfer the energy to reaction centers. Previous ensemble studies have shown that cyanobacteria respond to changes in nutrient availability by modifying the structure of PBS complexes, but this process has not been visualized for individual pigments at the single-cell level due to spectral overlap. We characterized the response of four key photosynthetic pigments to nitrogen depletion and repletion at the subcellular level in individual, live Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803 cells using hyperspectral confocal fluorescence microscopy and multivariate image analysis. Our results revealed that PBS degradation and re-synthesis comprise a rapid response tomore » nitrogen fluctuations, with coordinated populations of cells undergoing pigment modifications. Chlorophyll fluorescence originating from photosystem I and II decreased during nitrogen starvation, but no alteration in subcellular chlorophyll localization was found. Lastly, we observed differential rod and core pigment responses to nitrogen deprivation, suggesting that PBS complexes undergo a stepwise degradation process.« less

Insulin-coated gold nanoparticles as a new concept for personalized and adjustable glucose regulation.

PubMed

Shilo, Malka; Berenstein, Peter; Dreifuss, Tamar; Nash, Yuval; Goldsmith, Guy; Kazimirsky, Gila; Motiei, Menachem; Frenkel, Dan; Brodie, Chaya; Popovtzer, Rachela

2015-12-28

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disease, characterized by high blood glucose levels, affecting millions of people around the world. Currently, the main treatment for diabetes requires multiple daily injections of insulin and self-monitoring of blood glucose levels, which markedly affect patients' quality of life. In this study we present a novel strategy for controlled and prolonged glucose regulation, based on the administration of insulin-coated gold nanoparticles (INS-GNPs). We show that both intravenous and subcutaneous injection of INS-GNPs into a mouse model of type 1 diabetes decreases blood glucose levels for periods over 3 times longer than free insulin. We further showed that conjugation of insulin to GNPs prevented its rapid degradation by the insulin-degrading-enzyme, and thus allows controlled and adjustable bio-activity. Moreover, we assessed different sizes and concentrations of INS-GNPs, and found that both parameters have a critical effect in vivo, enabling specific adjustment of blood glucose levels. These findings have the potential to improve patient compliance in diabetes mellitus.

Copeptin as a biomarker and a diagnostic tool in the evaluation of patients with polyuria-polydipsia and hyponatremia.

PubMed

Christ-Crain, M; Morgenthaler, N G; Fenske, W

2016-03-01

Copeptin is part of the 164 amino acid precursor protein preprovasopressin together with vasopressin and neurophysin II. During precursor processing, copeptin is released together with vasopressin. Copeptin concentrations respond as rapidly as vasopressin to changes in osmolality, a decrease in blood pressure or stress and there is a close correlation of vasopressin and copeptin concentrations. For these reasons, copeptin is propagated as a surrogate marker for vasopressin in the differential diagnosis of the polyuria-polydipsia syndromes and hyponatremia. Results of prospective studies show that a baseline copeptin level without prior fluid deprivation >20 pmol/L is able to identify patients with nephrogenic diabetes insipidus, whereas osmotically stimulated copeptin levels differentiate between patients with partial central diabetes insipidus and primary polydipsia with a high sensitivity and specificity >94%. In hyponatremia, low copeptin levels point to primary polydipsia and high levels to hypovolemic hyponatremia. The copeptin to urinary sodium ratio differentiates accurately between volume-depleted and normovolemic disorders. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Insulin-coated gold nanoparticles as a new concept for personalized and adjustable glucose regulation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shilo, Malka; Berenstein, Peter; Dreifuss, Tamar; Nash, Yuval; Goldsmith, Guy; Kazimirsky, Gila; Motiei, Menachem; Frenkel, Dan; Brodie, Chaya; Popovtzer, Rachela

2015-12-01

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disease, characterized by high blood glucose levels, affecting millions of people around the world. Currently, the main treatment for diabetes requires multiple daily injections of insulin and self-monitoring of blood glucose levels, which markedly affect patients' quality of life. In this study we present a novel strategy for controlled and prolonged glucose regulation, based on the administration of insulin-coated gold nanoparticles (INS-GNPs). We show that both intravenous and subcutaneous injection of INS-GNPs into a mouse model of type 1 diabetes decreases blood glucose levels for periods over 3 times longer than free insulin. We further showed that conjugation of insulin to GNPs prevented its rapid degradation by the insulin-degrading-enzyme, and thus allows controlled and adjustable bio-activity. Moreover, we assessed different sizes and concentrations of INS-GNPs, and found that both parameters have a critical effect in vivo, enabling specific adjustment of blood glucose levels. These findings have the potential to improve patient compliance in diabetes mellitus.

Population-level coordination of pigment response in individual cyanobacterial cells under altered nitrogen levels

DOE PAGES

Murton, Jaclyn; Nagarajan, Aparna; Nguyen, Amelia Y.; ...

2017-07-21

Cyanobacterial phycobilisome (PBS) pigment-protein complexes harvest light and transfer the energy to reaction centers. Previous ensemble studies have shown that cyanobacteria respond to changes in nutrient availability by modifying the structure of PBS complexes, but this process has not been visualized for individual pigments at the single-cell level due to spectral overlap. We characterized the response of four key photosynthetic pigments to nitrogen depletion and repletion at the subcellular level in individual, live Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803 cells using hyperspectral confocal fluorescence microscopy and multivariate image analysis. Our results revealed that PBS degradation and re-synthesis comprise a rapid response tomore » nitrogen fluctuations, with coordinated populations of cells undergoing pigment modifications. Chlorophyll fluorescence originating from photosystem I and II decreased during nitrogen starvation, but no alteration in subcellular chlorophyll localization was found. Lastly, we observed differential rod and core pigment responses to nitrogen deprivation, suggesting that PBS complexes undergo a stepwise degradation process.« less

Coral and mollusc resistance to ocean acidification adversely affected by warming

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rodolfo-Metalpa, R.; Houlbrèque, F.; Tambutté, É.; Boisson, F.; Baggini, C.; Patti, F. P.; Jeffree, R.; Fine, M.; Foggo, A.; Gattuso, J.-P.; Hall-Spencer, J. M.

2011-09-01

Increasing atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) concentrations are expectedto decrease surface ocean pH by 0.3-0.5 units by 2100 (refs , ), lowering the carbonate ion concentration of surfacewaters. This rapid acidification is predicted to dramatically decrease calcification in many marine organisms. Reduced skeletal growth under increased CO2 levels has already been shown for corals, molluscs and many other marine organisms. The impact of acidification on the ability of individual species to calcify has remained elusive, however, as measuring net calcification fails to disentangle the relative contributions of gross calcification and dissolution rates on growth. Here, we show that corals and molluscs transplanted along gradients of carbonate saturation state at Mediterranean CO2 vents are able to calcify and grow at even faster than normal rates when exposed to the high CO2 levels projected for the next 300 years. Calcifiers remain at risk, however, owing to the dissolution of exposed shells and skeletons that occurs as pH levels fall. Our results show that tissues and external organic layers play a major role in protecting shells and skeletons from corrosive sea water, limiting dissolution and allowing organisms to calcify. Our combined field and laboratory results demonstrate that the adverse effects of global warming are exacerbated when high temperatures coincide with acidification.

Dual inhibition of survivin and MAOA synergistically impairs growth of PTEN-negative prostate cancer

PubMed Central

Xu, S; Adisetiyo, H; Tamura, S; Grande, F; Garofalo, A; Roy-Burman, P; Neamati, N

2015-01-01

Background: Survivin and monoamine oxidase A (MAOA) levels are elevated in prostate cancer (PCa) compared to normal prostate glands. However, the relationship between survivin and MAOA in PCa is unclear. Methods: We examined MAOA expression in the prostate lobes of a conditional PTEN-deficient mouse model mirroring human PCa, with or without survivin knockout. We also silenced one gene at a time and examined the expression of the other. We further evaluated the combination of MAOA inhibitors and survivin suppressants on the growth, viability, migration and invasion of PCa cells. Results: Survivin and MAOA levels are both increased in clinical PCa tissues and significantly associated with patients' survival. Survivin depletion delayed MAOA increase during PCa progression, and silencing MAOA decreased survivin expression. The combination of MAOA inhibitors and the survivin suppressants (YM155 and SC144) showed significant synergy on the inhibition of PCa cell growth, migration and invasion with concomitant decrease in survivin and MMP-9 levels. Conclusions: There is a positive feedback loop between survivin and MAOA expression in PCa. Considering that survivin suppressants and MAOA inhibitors are currently available in clinical trials and clinical use, their synergistic effects in PCa support a rapid translation of this combination to clinical practice. PMID:26103574

Laser cytometric analysis of FIV-induced injury in astroglia.

PubMed

Zenger, E; Collisson, E W; Barhoumi, R; Burghardt, R C; Danave, I R; Tiffany-Castiglioni, E

1995-02-01

Glia are the predominant brain cells infected by the lentiviruses human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV). The importance of astrocytes in maintenance of central nervous system homeostasis suggests that astrocytes are likely to play a strategic role in the progression of neurological disease in lentiviral-infected patients. In consideration of this postulate, the ability of FIV to cause injury by infection of cultured feline astroglia was examined via vital fluorescence assays. Intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis, plasma membrane permeability and fluidity, and cytosolic glutathione (GSH) levels were evaluated. Although basal intracellular Ca2+ was not significantly different between groups, FIV-infected astroglia displayed both a significant delay in development of peak Ca2+ levels following ionophore application and a decrease in the amount of Ca2+ released from intracellular stores. Plasma membrane lipid mobility was increased in FIV-infected cells within 24 h of infection. Glutathione levels were affected in a dose dependent fashion. With a standard viral inoculum there was a decrease in GSH which became significant after 8 days postinfection. With a high inoculum dose there was rapid loss of cell viability with an increase in GSH in surviving cells. We have identified several cellular processes altered in FIV-infected astroglia and our findings suggest that FIV-infection of feline astroglia affects cellular membranes, both structurally and functionally.

Fiber Concentrate from Orange (Citrus sinensis L.) Bagase: Characterization and Application as Bakery Product Ingredient

PubMed Central

Romero-Lopez, Maria R.; Osorio-Diaz, Perla; Bello-Perez, Luis A.; Tovar, Juscelino; Bernardino-Nicanor, Aurea

2011-01-01

Orange is a tropical fruit used in the juice industry, yielding important quantities of by products. The objective of this work was to obtain a dietary fiber-rich orange bagasse product (DFROBP), evaluate its chemical composition and its use in the preparation of a bakery product (muffin). Muffins containing two different levels of DFROBP were studied regarding chemical composition, in vitro starch digestibility, predicted glyceamic index and acceptability in a sensory test. DFROBP showed low fat and high dietary fiber contents. The soluble and insoluble dietary fiber fractions were balanced, which is of importance for the health beneficial effects of fiber sources. DFROBP-containing muffins showed the same rapidly digestible starch content as the reference muffin, whilst the slowly digestible starch level increased with the addition of DFROBP. However, the resistant starch content decreased when DFROBP increased in the muffin. The addition of DFROBP to muffin decreased the predicted glyceamic index, but no difference was found between the muffins prepared with the two DFROBP levels. The sensory score did not show difference between control muffin and that added with 10% of DFROBP. The addition of DFROBP to bakery products can be an alternative for people requiring low glyceamic response. PMID:21731434

Alterations of the Intracellular Peptidome in Response to the Proteasome Inhibitor Bortezomib

PubMed Central

Berezniuk, Iryna; Dasgupta, Sayani; Castro, Leandro M.; Gozzo, Fabio C.; Ferro, Emer S.; Fricker, Lloyd D.

2013-01-01

Bortezomib is an antitumor drug that competitively inhibits proteasome beta-1 and beta-5 subunits. While the impact of bortezomib on protein stability is known, the effect of this drug on intracellular peptides has not been previously explored. A quantitative peptidomics technique was used to examine the effect of treating human embryonic kidney 293T (HEK293T) cells with 5–500 nM bortezomib for various lengths of time (30 minutes to 16 hours), and human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells with 500 nM bortezomib for 1 hour. Although bortezomib treatment decreased the levels of some intracellular peptides, the majority of peptides were increased by 50–500 nM bortezomib. Peptides requiring cleavage at acidic and hydrophobic sites, which involve beta-1 and -5 proteasome subunits, were among those elevated by bortezomib. In contrast, the proteasome inhibitor epoxomicin caused a decrease in the levels of many of these peptides. Although bortezomib can induce autophagy under certain conditions, the rapid bortezomib-mediated increase in peptide levels did not correlate with the induction of autophagy. Taken together, the present data indicate that bortezomib alters the balance of intracellular peptides, which may contribute to the biological effects of this drug. PMID:23308178

Activity and circadian rhythm influence synaptic Shank3 protein levels in mice.

PubMed

Sarowar, Tasnuva; Chhabra, Resham; Vilella, Antonietta; Boeckers, Tobias M; Zoli, Michele; Grabrucker, Andreas M

2016-09-01

Various recent studies revealed that the proteins of the Shank family act as major scaffold organizing elements in the post-synaptic density of excitatory synapses and that their expression level is able to influence synapse formation, maturation and ultimately brain plasticity. An imbalance in Shank3 protein levels has been associated with a variety of neuropsychological and neurodegenerative disorders including autism spectrum disorders and Phelan-McDermid syndrome. Given that sleep disorders and low melatonin levels are frequently observed in autism spectrum disorders, and that circadian rhythms may be able to modulate Shank3 signaling and thereby synaptic function, here, we performed in vivo studies on CBA mice using protein biochemistry to investigate the synaptic expression levels of Shank3α during the day in different brain regions. Our results show that synaptic Shank3 protein concentrations exhibit minor oscillations during the day in hippocampal and striatal brain regions that correlate with changes in serum melatonin levels. Furthermore, as circadian rhythms are tightly connected to activity levels in mice, we increased physical activity using running wheels. The expression of Shank3α increases rapidly by induced activity in thalamus and cortex, but decreases in striatum, superimposing the circadian rhythms of different brain regions. We conclude that synaptic Shank3 proteins build highly dynamic platforms that are modulated by the light:dark cycles but even more so driven by activity. Using wild-type CBA mice, we show that Shank3 is a highly dynamic and activity-regulated protein at synapses. In the hippocampus, changes in synaptic Shank3 levels are influenced by circadian rhythm/melatonin concentration, while running activity increases and decreases levels of Shank3 in the cortex and striatum respectively. © 2016 International Society for Neurochemistry.

Understanding rapid changes in phase partitioning between cloud liquid and ice in an Arctic stratiform mixed-phase cloud

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kalesse, Heike; de Boer, Gijs; Solomon, Amy; Oue, Mariko; Ahlgrimm, Maike; Zhang, Damao; Shupe, Matthew; Luke, Edward; Protat, Alain

2016-04-01

In the Arctic, a region particularly sensitive to climate change, mixed-phase clouds occur as persistent single or multiple stratiform layers. For many climate models, the correct partitioning of hydrometeor phase (liquid vs. ice) remains a challenge. However, this phase partitioning plays an important role for precipitation processes and the radiation budget. To better understand the partitioning of phase in Arctic clouds, observations using a combination of surface-based remote sensors are useful. In this study, the focus is on a persistent low-level single-layer stratiform Arctic mixed-phase cloud observed during March 11-12, 2013 at the US Department of Energy's (DOE) Atmospheric Radiation Measurement (ARM) North Slope of Alaska (NSA) permanent site in Barrow, Alaska. This case is of particular interest due to two significant shifts in observed precipitation intensity over a 36 hour period. For the first 12 hours of this case, the observed liquid portion of the cloud cover featured a stable cloud top height with a gradually descending liquid cloud base and continuous ice precipitation. Then the ice precipitation intensity significantly decreased. A second decrease in ice precipitation intensity was observed a few hours later coinciding with the advection of a cirrus over the site. Through analysis of the data collected by extensive ground-based remote-sensing and in-situ observing systems as well as Nested Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) simulations and ECMWF radiation scheme simulations, we try to shed light on the processes responsible for these rapid changes in precipitation rates. A variety of parameters such as the evolution of the internal dynamics and microphysics of the low-level mixed-phase cloud and the influence of the cirrus cloud are evaluated.

Mycobacterium tuberculosis dysregulates MMP/TIMP balance to drive rapid cavitation and unrestrained bacterial proliferation

PubMed Central

Kübler, André; Luna, Brian; Larsson, Christer; Ammerman, Nicole C.; Andrade, Bruno B.; Orandle, Marlene; Bock, Kevin W.; Xu, Ziyue; Bagci, Ulas; Molura, Daniel J.; Marshall, John; Burns, Jay; Winglee, Kathryn; Ahidjo, Bintou Ahmadou; Cheung, Laurene S.; Klunk, Mariah; Jain, Sanjay K.; Kumar, Nathella Pavan; Babu, Subash; Sher, Alan; Friedland, Jon S.; Elkington, Paul T. G.; Bishai, William R.

2014-01-01

Active tuberculosis (TB) often presents with advanced pulmonary disease, including irreversible lung damage and cavities. Cavitary pathology contributes to antibiotic failure, transmission, morbidity and mortality. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), in particular MMP-1 are implicated in TB pathogenesis. We explored the mechanisms relating MMP/TIMP imbalance to cavity formation in a modified rabbit model of cavitary TB. Our model results in consistent progression of consolidation to human-like cavities (100% by day 28) with resultant bacillary burdens (>107 CFU/g) far greater than those found in matched granulomatous tissue (105 CFU/g). Using a novel, breath-hold computerized tomography scanning and image analysis protocol. We show that cavities develop rapidly from areas of densely consolidated tissue. Radiological change correlated with a decrease in functional lung tissue as estimated by changes in lung density during controlled pulmonary expansion (R2=0.6356, p<0.0001). We demonstrated that the expression of interstitial collagenase (MMP-1) is specifically greater in cavitary compared to granulomatous lesions (p<0.01), and that TIMP-3 significantly decreases at the cavity surface. Our findings demonstrate that an MMP-1/TIMP imbalance, is associated with the progression of consolidated regions to cavities containing very high bacterial burdens. Our model provided mechanistic insight, correlating with human disease at the pathological, microbiological and molecular levels,. It also provides a strategy to investigate therapeutics in the context of complex TB pathology. We used these findings to predict a MMP/TIMP balance in active TB; and confirmed this in human plasma, revealing the potential of MMP/TIMP levels as key components of a diagnostic matrix aimed at distinguishing active from latent TB (PPV=92.9%; 95%CI 66.1–99.8%, NPV=85.6%; 95%CI 77.0–91.9%). PMID:25186281

Rapid Copper Acquisition by Developing Murine Mesothelioma: Decreasing Bioavailable Copper Slows Tumor Growth, Normalizes Vessels and Promotes T Cell Infiltration

PubMed Central

Crowe, Andrew; Jackaman, Connie; Beddoes, Katie M.; Ricciardo, Belinda; Nelson, Delia J.

2013-01-01

Copper, an essential trace element acquired through nutrition, is an important co-factor for pro-angiogenic factors including vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Decreasing bioavailable copper has been used as an anti-angiogenic and anti-cancer strategy with promising results. However, the role of copper and its potential as a therapy in mesothelioma is not yet well understood. Therefore, we monitored copper levels in progressing murine mesothelioma tumors and analyzed the effects of lowering bioavailable copper. Copper levels in tumors and organs were assayed using atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Mesothelioma tumors rapidly sequestered copper at early stages of development, the copper was then dispersed throughout growing tumor tissues. These data imply that copper uptake may play an important role in early tumor development. Lowering bioavailable copper using the copper chelators, penicillamine, trientine or tetrathiomolybdate, slowed in vivo mesothelioma growth but did not provide any cures similar to using cisplatin chemotherapy or anti-VEGF receptor antibody therapy. The impact of copper lowering on tumor blood vessels and tumor infiltrating T cells was measured using flow cytometry and confocal microscopy. Copper lowering was associated with reduced tumor vessel diameter, reduced endothelial cell proliferation (reduced Ki67 expression) and lower surface ICAM/CD54 expression implying reduced endothelial cell activation, in a process similar to endothelial normalization. Copper lowering was also associated with a CD4+ T cell infiltrate. In conclusion, these data suggest copper lowering is a potentially useful anti-mesothelioma treatment strategy that slows tumor growth to provide a window of opportunity for inclusion of other treatment modalities to improve patient outcomes. PMID:24013775

Early containment of high-alkaline solution simulating low-level radioactive waste stream in clay-bearing blended cement

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

Kruger, A.A.; Olson, R.A.; Tennis, P.D.

1995-04-01

Portland cement blended with fly ash and attapulgite clay was mixed with high-alkaline solution simulating low-level radioactive waste stream at a one-to-one weight ratio. Mixtures were adiabatically and isothermally cured at various temperatures and analyzed for phase composition, total alkalinity, pore solution chemistry, and transport properties as measured by impedance spectroscopy. Total alkalinity is characterized by two main drops. The early one corresponds to a rapid removal of phosphorous, aluminum, sodium, and to a lesser extent potassium solution. The second drop from about 10 h to 3 days is mainly associated with the removal of aluminum, silicon, and sodium. Thereafter,more » the total alkalinity continues descending, but at a lower rate. All pastes display a rapid flow loss that is attributed to an early precipitation of hydrated products. Hemicarbonate appears as early as one hour after mixing and is probably followed by apatite precipitation. However, the former is unstable and decomposes at a rate that is inversely related to the curing temperature. At high temperatures, zeolite appears at about 10 h after mixing. At 30 days, the stabilized crystalline composition Includes zeolite, apatite and other minor amounts of CaCO{sub 3}, quartz, and monosulfate Impedance spectra conform with the chemical and mineralogical data. The normalized conductivity of the pastes shows an early drop, which is followed by a main decrease from about 12 h to three days. At three days, the permeability of the cement-based waste as calculated by Katz-Thompson equation is over three orders of magnitude lower than that of ordinary portland cement paste. However, a further decrease in the calculated permeability is questionable. Chemical stabilization is favorable through incorporation of waste species into apatite and zeolite.« less

Immunoadsorption to remove ß2 adrenergic receptor antibodies in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome CFS/ME.

PubMed

Scheibenbogen, Carmen; Loebel, Madlen; Freitag, Helma; Krueger, Anne; Bauer, Sandra; Antelmann, Michaela; Doehner, Wolfram; Scherbakov, Nadja; Heidecke, Harald; Reinke, Petra; Volk, Hans-Dieter; Grabowski, Patricia

2018-01-01

Infection-triggered disease onset, chronic immune activation and autonomic dysregulation in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome/Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME) point to an autoimmune disease directed against neurotransmitter receptors. We had observed elevated autoantibodies against ß2 adrenergic receptors, and muscarinic 3 and 4 acetylcholine receptors in a subset of patients. Immunoadsorption (IA) was shown to be effective in removing autoantibodies and improve outcome in various autoimmune diseases. 10 patients with post-infectious CFS/ME and elevated ß2 autoantibodies were treated with IA with an IgG-binding column for 5 days. We assessed severity of symptoms as outcome parameter by disease specific scores. Antibodies were determined by ELISA and B cell phenotype by flow cytometry. IgG levels dropped to median 0.73 g/l (normal 7-16 g/l) after the 4th cycle of IA, while IgA and IgM levels remained unchanged. Similarly, elevated ß2 IgG antibodies rapidly decreased during IA in 9 of 10 patients. Also 6 months later ß2 autoantibodies were significantly lower compared to pretreatment. Frequency of memory B cells significantly decreased and frequency of plasma cells increased after the 4th IA cycle. A rapid improvement of symptoms was reported by 7 patients during the IA. 3 of these patients had long lasting moderate to marked improvement for 6-12+ months, 2 patients had short improvement only and 2 patients improved for several months following initial worsening. IA can remove autoantibodies against ß2 adrenergic receptor and lead to clinical improvement. B cell phenotyping provides evidence for an effect of IA on memory B cell development. Data from our pilot trial warrants further studies in CFS/ME.

Losartan attenuates chronic cigarette smoke exposure-induced pulmonary arterial hypertension in rats: possible involvement of angiotensin-converting enzyme-2.

PubMed

Han, Su-Xia; He, Guang-Ming; Wang, Tao; Chen, Lei; Ning, Yun-Ye; Luo, Feng; An, Jin; Yang, Ting; Dong, Jia-Jia; Liao, Zeng-Lin; Xu, Dan; Wen, Fu-Qiang

2010-05-15

Chronic cigarette smoking induces pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) by largely unknown mechanisms. Renin-angiotensin system (RAS) is known to function in the development of PAH. Losartan, a specific angiotensin II receptor antagonist, is a well-known antihypertensive drug with a potential role in regulating angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 (ACE2), a recently found regulator of RAS. To determine the effect of losartan on smoke-induced PAH and its possible mechanism, rats were daily exposed to cigarette smoke for 6months in the absence and in the presence of losartan. Elevated right ventricular systolic pressure (RVSP), thickened wall of pulmonary arteries with apparent medial hypertrophy along with increased angiotensin II (Ang II) and decreased ACE2 levels were observed in smoke-exposed-only rats. Losartan administration ameliorated pulmonary vascular remodeling, inhibited the smoke-induced RVSP and Ang II elevation and partially reversed the ACE2 decrease in rat lungs. In cultured primary pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (PASMCs) from 3- and 6-month smoke-exposed rats, ACE2 levels were significantly lower than in those from the control rats. Moreover, PASMCs from 6-month exposed rats proliferated more rapidly than those from 3-month exposed or control rats, and cells grew even more rapidly in the presence of DX600, an ACE2 inhibitor. Consistent with the in vivo study, in vitro losartan pretreatment also inhibited cigarette smoke extract (CSE)-induced cell proliferation and ACE2 reduction in rat PASMCs. The results suggest that losartan may be therapeutically useful in the chronic smoking-induced pulmonary vascular remodeling and PAH and ACE2 may be involved as part of its mechanism. Our study might provide insight into the development of new therapeutic interventions for PAH smokers.

Oct4 Methylation-Mediated Silencing As an Epigenetic Barrier Preventing Müller Glia Dedifferentiation in a Murine Model of Retinal Injury.

PubMed

Reyes-Aguirre, Luis I; Lamas, Monica

2016-01-01

Müller glia (MG) is the most abundant glial type in the vertebrate retina. Among its many functions, it is capable of responding to injury by dedifferentiating, proliferating, and differentiating into every cell types lost to damage. This regenerative ability is notoriously absent in mammals. We have previously reported that cultured mammalian MG undergoes a partial dedifferentiation, but fails to fully acquire a progenitor phenotype and differentiate into neurons. This might be explained by a mnemonic mechanism comprised by epigenetic traits, such as DNA methylation. To achieve a better understanding of this epigenetic memory, we studied the expression of pluripotency-associated genes, such as Oct4, Nanog , and Lin28 , which have been reported as necessary for regeneration in fish, at early times after NMDA-induced retinal injury in a mouse experimental model. We found that although Oct4 is expressed rapidly after damage (4 hpi), it is silenced at 24 hpi. This correlates with a significant decrease in the DNA methyltransferase Dnmt3b expression, which returns to basal levels at 24 hpi. By MS-PCR, we observed a decrease in Oct4 methylation levels at 4 and 12 hpi, before returning to a fully methylated state at 24 hpi. To demonstrate that these changes are restricted to MG, we separated these cells using a GLAST antibody coupled with magnetic beads. Finally, intravitreous administration of the DNA-methyltransferase inhibitor SGI-1027 induced Oct4 expression at 24 hpi in MG. Our results suggest that mammalian MG injury-induced dedifferentiation could be restricted by DNA methylation, which rapidly silences Oct4 expression, preventing multipotency acquisition.

Oct4 Methylation-Mediated Silencing As an Epigenetic Barrier Preventing Müller Glia Dedifferentiation in a Murine Model of Retinal Injury

PubMed Central

Reyes-Aguirre, Luis I.; Lamas, Monica

2016-01-01

Müller glia (MG) is the most abundant glial type in the vertebrate retina. Among its many functions, it is capable of responding to injury by dedifferentiating, proliferating, and differentiating into every cell types lost to damage. This regenerative ability is notoriously absent in mammals. We have previously reported that cultured mammalian MG undergoes a partial dedifferentiation, but fails to fully acquire a progenitor phenotype and differentiate into neurons. This might be explained by a mnemonic mechanism comprised by epigenetic traits, such as DNA methylation. To achieve a better understanding of this epigenetic memory, we studied the expression of pluripotency-associated genes, such as Oct4, Nanog, and Lin28, which have been reported as necessary for regeneration in fish, at early times after NMDA-induced retinal injury in a mouse experimental model. We found that although Oct4 is expressed rapidly after damage (4 hpi), it is silenced at 24 hpi. This correlates with a significant decrease in the DNA methyltransferase Dnmt3b expression, which returns to basal levels at 24 hpi. By MS-PCR, we observed a decrease in Oct4 methylation levels at 4 and 12 hpi, before returning to a fully methylated state at 24 hpi. To demonstrate that these changes are restricted to MG, we separated these cells using a GLAST antibody coupled with magnetic beads. Finally, intravitreous administration of the DNA-methyltransferase inhibitor SGI-1027 induced Oct4 expression at 24 hpi in MG. Our results suggest that mammalian MG injury-induced dedifferentiation could be restricted by DNA methylation, which rapidly silences Oct4 expression, preventing multipotency acquisition. PMID:27895551

Losartan attenuates chronic cigarette smoke exposure-induced pulmonary arterial hypertension in rats: Possible involvement of angiotensin-converting enzyme-2

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

Han Suxia; He Guangming; Wang Tao

Chronic cigarette smoking induces pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) by largely unknown mechanisms. Renin-angiotensin system (RAS) is known to function in the development of PAH. Losartan, a specific angiotensin II receptor antagonist, is a well-known antihypertensive drug with a potential role in regulating angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 (ACE2), a recently found regulator of RAS. To determine the effect of losartan on smoke-induced PAH and its possible mechanism, rats were daily exposed to cigarette smoke for 6 months in the absence and in the presence of losartan. Elevated right ventricular systolic pressure (RVSP), thickened wall of pulmonary arteries with apparent medial hypertrophy along withmore » increased angiotensin II (Ang II) and decreased ACE2 levels were observed in smoke-exposed-only rats. Losartan administration ameliorated pulmonary vascular remodeling, inhibited the smoke-induced RVSP and Ang II elevation and partially reversed the ACE2 decrease in rat lungs. In cultured primary pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (PASMCs) from 3- and 6-month smoke-exposed rats, ACE2 levels were significantly lower than in those from the control rats. Moreover, PASMCs from 6-month exposed rats proliferated more rapidly than those from 3-month exposed or control rats, and cells grew even more rapidly in the presence of DX600, an ACE2 inhibitor. Consistent with the in vivo study, in vitro losartan pretreatment also inhibited cigarette smoke extract (CSE)-induced cell proliferation and ACE2 reduction in rat PASMCs. The results suggest that losartan may be therapeutically useful in the chronic smoking-induced pulmonary vascular remodeling and PAH and ACE2 may be involved as part of its mechanism. Our study might provide insight into the development of new therapeutic interventions for PAH smokers.« less

Neonatal injury rapidly alters markers of pain and stress in rat pups.

PubMed

Victoria, Nicole C; Karom, Mary C; Eichenbaum, Hila; Murphy, Anne Z

2014-01-01

Less than 60% of infants undergoing invasive procedures in the neonatal intensive care unit receive analgesic therapy. These infants show long-term decreases in pain sensitivity and cortisol reactivity. In rats, we have previously shown that inflammatory pain experienced on the day of birth significantly decreases adult somatosensory thresholds and responses to anxiety- and stress-provoking stimuli. These long-term changes in pain and stress responsiveness are accompanied by two-fold increases in central met-enkephalin and β-endorphin expression. However, the time course over which these changes in central opioid peptide expression occur, relative to the time of injury, are not known. The present studies were conducted to determine whether the observed changes in adult opioid peptide expression were present within the first postnatal week following injury. The impact of neonatal inflammation on plasma corticosterone, a marker for stress reactivity, was also determined. Brain, spinal cord, and trunk blood were harvested at 24 h, 48 h, and 7 d following intraplantar administration of the inflammatory agent carrageenan on the day of birth. Radioimmunoassay was used to determine plasma corticosterone and met-enkephalin and β-endorphin levels within the forebrain, cortex, midbrain, and spinal cord. Within 24 h of injury, met-enkephalin levels were significantly increased in the midbrain, but decreased in the spinal cord and cortex; forebrain β-endorphin levels were significantly increased as a result of early life pain. Corticosterone levels were also significantly increased. At 7 d post-injury, opioid peptides remained elevated relative to controls, suggesting a time point by which injury-induced changes become programmed and permanent. Copyright © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Diverse environmental stresses elicit distinct responses at the level of pre-mRNA processing in yeast

PubMed Central

Bergkessel, Megan; Whitworth, Gregg B.; Guthrie, Christine

2011-01-01

Gene expression in eukaryotic cells is profoundly influenced by the post-transcriptional processing of mRNAs, including the splicing of introns in the nucleus and both nuclear and cytoplasmic degradation pathways. These processes have the potential to affect both the steady-state levels and the kinetics of changes to levels of intron-containing transcripts. Here we report the use of a splicing isoform-specific microarray platform to investigate the effects of diverse stress conditions on pre-mRNA processing. Interestingly, we find that diverse stresses cause distinct patterns of changes at this level. The responses we observed are most dramatic for the RPGs and can be categorized into three major classes. The first is characterized by accumulation of RPG pre-mRNA and is seen in multiple types of amino acid starvation regimes; the magnitude of splicing inhibition correlates with the severity of the stress. The second class is characterized by a rapid decrease in both pre- and mature RPG mRNA and is seen in many stresses that inactivate the TORC1 kinase complex. These decreases depend on nuclear turnover of the intron-containing pre-RNAs. The third class is characterized by a decrease in RPG pre-mRNA, with only a modest reduction in the mature species; this response is observed in hyperosmotic and cation-toxic stresses. We show that casein kinase 2 (CK2) makes important contributions to the changes in pre-mRNA processing, particularly for the first two classes of stress responses. In total, our data suggest that complex post-transcriptional programs cooperate to fine-tune expression of intron-containing transcripts in budding yeast. PMID:21697354

Diverse environmental stresses elicit distinct responses at the level of pre-mRNA processing in yeast.

PubMed

Bergkessel, Megan; Whitworth, Gregg B; Guthrie, Christine

2011-08-01

Gene expression in eukaryotic cells is profoundly influenced by the post-transcriptional processing of mRNAs, including the splicing of introns in the nucleus and both nuclear and cytoplasmic degradation pathways. These processes have the potential to affect both the steady-state levels and the kinetics of changes to levels of intron-containing transcripts. Here we report the use of a splicing isoform-specific microarray platform to investigate the effects of diverse stress conditions on pre-mRNA processing. Interestingly, we find that diverse stresses cause distinct patterns of changes at this level. The responses we observed are most dramatic for the RPGs and can be categorized into three major classes. The first is characterized by accumulation of RPG pre-mRNA and is seen in multiple types of amino acid starvation regimes; the magnitude of splicing inhibition correlates with the severity of the stress. The second class is characterized by a rapid decrease in both pre- and mature RPG mRNA and is seen in many stresses that inactivate the TORC1 kinase complex. These decreases depend on nuclear turnover of the intron-containing pre-RNAs. The third class is characterized by a decrease in RPG pre-mRNA, with only a modest reduction in the mature species; this response is observed in hyperosmotic and cation-toxic stresses. We show that casein kinase 2 (CK2) makes important contributions to the changes in pre-mRNA processing, particularly for the first two classes of stress responses. In total, our data suggest that complex post-transcriptional programs cooperate to fine-tune expression of intron-containing transcripts in budding yeast.

Anti-Apoptotic Protein Bcl-xL Expression in the Midbrain Raphe Region Is Sensitive to Stress and Glucocorticoids.

PubMed

Shishkina, Galina T; Kalinina, Tatyana S; Bulygina, Veta V; Lanshakov, Dmitry A; Babluk, Ekaterina V; Dygalo, Nikolay N

2015-01-01

Anti-apoptotic proteins are suggested to be important for the normal health of neurons and synapses as well as for resilience to stress. In order to determine whether stressful events may influence the expression of anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-xL in the midbrain and specifically in the midbrain serotonergic (5-HT) neurons involved in neurobehavioral responses to adverse stimuli, adult male rats were subjected to short-term or chronic forced swim stress. A short-term stress rapidly increased the midbrain bcl-xl mRNA levels and significantly elevated Bcl-xL immunoreactivity in the midbrain 5-HT cells. Stress-induced increase in glucocorticoid secretion was implicated in the observed effect. The levels of bcl-xl mRNA were decreased after stress when glucocorticoid elevation was inhibited by metyrapone (MET, 150 mg/kg), and this decrease was attenuated by glucocorticoid replacement with dexamethasone (DEX; 0.2 mg/kg). Both short-term stress and acute DEX administration, in parallel with Bcl-xL, caused a significant increase in tph2 mRNA levels and slightly enhanced tryptophan hydroxylase immunoreactivity in the midbrain. The increasing effect on the bcl-xl expression was specific to the short-term stress. Forced swim repeated daily for 2 weeks led to a decrease in bcl-xl mRNA in the midbrain without any effects on the Bcl-xL protein expression in the 5-HT neurons. In chronically stressed animals, an increase in tph2 gene expression was not associated with any changes in tryptophan hydroxylase protein levels. Our findings are the first to demonstrate that both short-term stress and acute glucocorticoid exposures induce Bcl-xL protein expression in the midbrain 5-HT neurons concomitantly with the activation of the 5-HT synthesis pathway in these neurons.

The use of sulfasalazine and pentoxifylline (low-cost antitumour necrosis factor drugs) as adjuvant therapy for the treatment of pemphigus vulgaris: a comparative study.

PubMed

el-Darouti, M; Marzouk, S; Abdel Hay, R; el-Tawdy, A; Fawzy, M; Leheta, T; Gammaz, H; Al Gendy, N

2009-08-01

Pemphigus vulgaris (PV) represents a potentially life-threatening autoimmune blistering disease in which IgG autoantibodies are directed against cell-cell adhesion molecules. Tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha has been suggested to have a possible role in the mechanism underlying acantholysis. This comparative double-blinded study was carried out to estimate the use of both sulfasalazine (SSZ) and pentoxifylline (PTX) (low-cost anti-TNF drugs) as an adjuvant therapy for PV. The study included 64 patients with PV: 42 patients received the full treatment regimen (with SSZ and PTX) and 22 patients followed the same regimen except they received placebo instead of PTX and SSZ. Five healthy subjects were included as controls. Serum samples were taken to measure TNF-alpha levels in the control group and before starting treatment in both the patient groups and this was repeated every 2 weeks for 8 weeks; a clinical assessment was made every week for all the patients. The serum level of TNF-alpha was statistically higher in both groups of patients than in the healthy individuals. There was a statistically significant decrease in the serum levels of TNF-alpha in patients in group 1 compared with those in group 2 at 6 and 8 weeks. There was also a significant clinical improvement in patients in group 1 compared with those in group 2. The use of PTX and SSZ as adjuvant therapy in the treatment of PV induced a faster and more significant decrease in the serum level of TNF-alpha, and this decrease was associated with rapid clinical improvement.

Microglial numbers attain adult levels after undergoing a rapid decrease in cell number in the third postnatal week.

PubMed

Nikodemova, Maria; Kimyon, Rebecca S; De, Ishani; Small, Alissa L; Collier, Lara S; Watters, Jyoti J

2015-01-15

During postnatal development, microglia, CNS resident innate immune cells, are essential for synaptic pruning, neuronal apoptosis and remodeling. During this period microglia undergo morphological and phenotypic transformations; however, little is known about how microglial number and density is regulated during postnatal CNS development. We found that after an initial increase during the first 14 postnatal days, microglial numbers in mouse brain began declining in the third postnatal week and were reduced by 50% by 6weeks of age; these "adult" levels were maintained until at least 9months of age. Microglial CD11b levels increased, whereas CD45 and ER-MP58 declined between P10 and adulthood, consistent with a maturing microglial phenotype. Our data indicate that both increased microglial apoptosis and a decreased proliferative capacity contribute to the developmental reduction in microglial numbers. We found no correlation between developmental reductions in microglial numbers and brain mRNA levels of Cd200, Cx3Cl1, M-Csf or Il-34. We tested the ability of M-Csf-overexpression, a key growth factor promoting microglial proliferation and survival, to prevent microglial loss in the third postnatal week. Mice overexpressing M-Csf in astrocytes had higher numbers of microglia at all ages tested. However, the developmental decline in microglial numbers still occurred, suggesting that chronically elevated M-CSF is unable to overcome the developmental decrease in microglial numbers. Whereas the identity of the factor(s) regulating microglial number and density during development remains to be determined, it is likely that microglia respond to a "maturation" signal since the reduction in microglial numbers coincides with CNS maturation. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

A rapid method for determining salinomycin and monensin sensitivity in Eimeria tenella.

PubMed

Jenkins, M C; O'Brien, C N; Fuller, L; Mathis, G F; Fetterer, R

2014-12-15

Standard methods of determining the ionophore sensitivity of Eimeria rely on infecting chickens with an isolate or a mixture of Eimeria spp. oocysts in the presence of different anti-coccidial drugs. The purpose of this study was to develop a rapid in vitro method for assessing salinomycin and monensin sensitivity in Eimeria tenella. Cultures of MDBK cells were grown to 85% confluency, and then inoculated with excysted E. tenella laboratory strain (APU-1) sporozoites in the presence of different concentrations of salinomycin or monensin. At various timepoints, the monolayers were fixed for counting intraceullar sporozoites, or were subjected to DNA extraction, followed by molecular analysis using quantitative (qPCR) or semi-quantitative PCR (sqPCR). Preliminary experiments showed that 24h was the optimum time for harvesting the E. tenella-infected cell cultures. The average number of E. tenella sporozoites relative to untreated controls displayed a linear decrease between 0.3 and 33.0 μg/ml salinomycin and between 0.3 and 3.3 μg/ml monensin. A similar pattern was observed in the relative amount of E. tenella DNA as measured by sqPCR. A linear decrease in the relative amount of E. tenella DNA was observed over the entire range of salinomycin and monensin concentrations as measured by qPCR possibly reflecting the greater sensitivity of this assay. Comparison of sporozoite counting, sqPCR, and qPCR signals using a criterion of 50% inhibition in sporozoite numbers or level of PCR amplification product showed good agreement between the three assays. E. tenella field isolates (FS-1 and FS-2) displaying resistance to salinomycin and monensin were evaluated in the in vitro assay using qPCR and sqPCR. Compared to E. tenella APU-1, the E. tenella FS-1 and FS-2 isolates showed higher levels of E. tenella DNA at 24h by both qPCR and sqPCR. This in vitro assay represents a significant advance in developing rapid, cost-effective methods for assessing ionophore sensitivity in E. tenella. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Lack of evidence for a decrease in synthetic pesticide use on the main arable crops in France.

PubMed

Hossard, Laure; Guichard, Laurence; Pelosi, Céline; Makowski, David

2017-01-01

The frequent, widespread use of pesticides in agriculture adversely affects biodiversity, human health, and water quality. In 2008, the French government adopted an environmental policy plan, "Ecophyto 2018", to halve pesticide use within 10years. Trends in synthetic pesticide sales and use in France were described, through three different indicators: the number of unit doses (NUD), the quantity of active ingredient (QAI), and the treatment frequency index (TFI). Changes in pesticide use on seven of the principal arable crops in France since the implementation of this policy plan were analyzed, together with the impact of changes in pesticide use on water quality. No evidence was found for a decrease in pesticide sales at national level between 2008 and 2013. In terms of the TFI values for individual crops, the only decrease in pesticide use observed since 2001 was for soft wheat. This decrease was very slight, and pesticide use did not decline more rapidly after 2006 than before. Changes in pesticide use differed between French regions and crops. Water pollution did not decrease during the period studied. Possible explanations for the lack of effectiveness of the French environmental plan are considered in the context of European legislation. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Developmental Effects of Ocean Acidification Conditions and Elevated Temperature on Homarus Americanus Larvae

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mcveigh, H.; Waller, J. D.

2016-02-01

The Gulf of Maine is experiencing a rapid warming in sea surface temperature and a marked decrease in pH. This study aimed to quantify the impact of elevated temperature and acidification on the larval development of the iconic American lobster (Homarus americanus). Experimental conditions were reflective of current and IPCC predicted levels of temperature and pCO2 to be reached by the end of the century. Larvae were measured for growth (carapace length), development time, and survivorship over the larval duration. Treatments of elevated temperatures experienced decreased development time across the larval stages of H. americanus. Consequently mortality increased at a significantly higher rate under elevated temperature. An increase in larval mortality may decrease recruitment to the commercial fishery, thus impacting the most valuable single species in the state of Maine. Furthermore, experimental pCO2 treatments yielded a significantly decreased development time between larval stages II and III, yet did not have a significant impact on carapace length or mortality. This study indicates that warmer temperatures may have a greater influence than decreased pH on larval development and survival. Determining how this species may respond to changing climactic conditions will better inform the sustainability efforts of such a critical marine fishery.

Dynamics of selected pre-existing polybrominated diphenylethers (PBDEs) in municipal wastewater sludge under anaerobic conditions.

PubMed

Shin, Mari; Duncan, Brigitte; Seto, Peter; Falletta, Patricia; Lee, Dae-Young

2010-03-01

Despite the rapid, widespread accumulation of polybrominated diphenylethers (PBDEs) in our surroundings, their environmental fate has been largely unknown. In the present study, most common congeners (BDE 47, 99, 100, 138, 153, 154, 183 and 209) were investigated for their dynamics in municipal sewage sludge under mesophilic condition (37 degrees C). In anaerobic batch cultures, the concentrations of BDE 47, 99, 100 and 209, exhibited significant decreases (by 22-40% from their initial concentration), whereas the levels of the other congeners, BDE 138, 153, 154 and 183, remained stable during a 238-d incubation. However, in a parallel study conducted in a pilot-scale anaerobic sludge digester, loss of all eight congeners was observed. The present study indicates that certain PBDE congeners undergo a significant mass decrease under anaerobic conditions. Crown Copyright (c) 2010. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Gender differences in the age-changing relationship between instrumentality and family contact in emerging adulthood.

PubMed

Sneed, Joel R; Johnson, Jeffrey G; Cohen, Patricia; Gilligan, Carol; Chen, Henian; Crawford, Thomas N; Kasen, Stephanie

2006-09-01

Data from the Children in the Community Transitions Study were used to examine gender differences in the impact of family contact on the development of finance and romance instrumentality from ages 17 to 27 years. Family contact decreased among both men and women across emerging adulthood, although it decreased more rapidly in men than in women. Both finance and romance instrumentality increased for men and women across emerging adulthood. The growth rate did not differ between men and women in either domain, although men tended to be characterized by higher levels of instrumentality than women. There were noteworthy gender differences in the impact of family contact on the development of instrumentality. At age 17, family contact was negatively associated with instrumentality for both men and women; at age 27, the impact of family contact on instrumentality was less negative for women and was positive for men.

Studies on the Mechanism of Action of Dinitramine

PubMed Central

Travis, Robert L.; Woods, William G.

1977-01-01

The effect of dinitramine, a selective herbicide, on the plasma membrane of the soybean (Glycine max L.) root was studied. Used as marker systems to observe the herbicide effect were two plasma-membrane-specific enzymes, pH 6.5 ATPase and glucan synthetase. The activity of pH 6.5 ATPase decreased significantly in membrane vesicles prepared from roots harvested 15 minutes after treatment with dinitramine. Maximum inhibition occurred in roots harvested 2 hours after treatment. Glucan synthetase activity decreased similarly within 2 hours of treatment. Membrane permeability to 86Rb was rapidly increased by dinitramine. The activity of pH 6.5 ATPase returned to the control level within 8 hours of treatment with dinitramine. These results show dinitramine's initial site of action to be the plasma membrane, producing an over-all reduction in membrane function through inactivation of membrane-associated proteins. PMID:16660043

Phagocytosis: studies by optical tweezers and time-resolved microspectrofluorometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schneckenburger, Herbert; Sailer, Reinhard; Hendinger, Anita; Gschwend, Michael H.; Bauer, Manfred; Strauss, Wolfgang S. L.

1999-01-01

Cellular uptake of transparent Latex particles by J774A.1 mouse macrophages has been studied: First, single beads were kept within an optical light trap and located in close vicinity to individual cells. Uptake of the beads was visualized, and intrinsic fluorescence was detected in the spectral range of 420 - 530 nm. Second, time-gated fluorescence spectra of single cells were recorded at pre- selected times during one hour after cellular uptake. A rapid increase of autofluorescence and a subsequent decrease to the level of control cells within about 10 min. was measured within a time gate of 0 - 5 ns after the exciting laser pulses, and attributed to the 'free' coenzyme NAD(P)H. In contrast, fluorescence increase of NAD(P)H bound to proteins (measured within time gates of 5 - 10 ns or 10 - 15 ns) was less pronounced, and the subsequent decrease occurred within a longer period (about one hour).

Whole Atmosphere Simulation of Anthropogenic Climate Change

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Solomon, Stanley C.; Liu, Han-Li; Marsh, Daniel R.; McInerney, Joseph M.; Qian, Liying; Vitt, Francis M.

2018-02-01

We simulated anthropogenic global change through the entire atmosphere, including the thermosphere and ionosphere, using the Whole Atmosphere Community Climate Model-eXtended. The basic result was that even as the lower atmosphere gradually warms, the upper atmosphere rapidly cools. The simulations employed constant low solar activity conditions, to remove the effects of variable solar and geomagnetic activity. Global mean annual mean temperature increased at a rate of +0.2 K/decade at the surface and +0.4 K/decade in the upper troposphere but decreased by about -1 K/decade in the stratosphere-mesosphere and -2.8 K/decade in the thermosphere. Near the mesopause, temperature decreases were small compared to the interannual variation, so trends in that region are uncertain. Results were similar to previous modeling confined to specific atmospheric levels and compared favorably with available measurements. These simulations demonstrate the ability of a single comprehensive numerical model to characterize global change throughout the atmosphere.

Utility of the Montreal assessment of need questionnaire for community mental health planning.

PubMed

Tremblay, Jacques; Bamvita, Jean-Marie; Grenier, Guy; Fleury, Marie-Josée

2014-09-01

Needs assessment facilitates mental health services planning, provision, and evaluation. This study aimed to (a) validate a new instrument, the Montreal Assessment of Needs Questionnaire (MANQ), and (b) use this to assess variations and predictors of need (number and seriousness) in 297 individuals with severe mental disorders for 18 months, during implementation of the Quebec Mental Health Action Plan. MANQ internal and external validations were adequate. Variables significantly associated with need number and seriousness variations were used to build multiple linear regression models. Autonomous housing, not receiving welfare, not having consulted a health educator, higher level of help from services, Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test total score, and social support were associated with decreasing need number and seriousness over time. Having a higher education was also associated with decreasing need number. In a reform context, the MANQ's unique ability to detect rapid improvement in patient needs has usefulness for Quebec mental health planning.

The scourge of antibiotic resistance: the important role of the environment.

PubMed

Finley, Rita L; Collignon, Peter; Larsson, D G Joakim; McEwen, Scott A; Li, Xian-Zhi; Gaze, William H; Reid-Smith, Richard; Timinouni, Mohammed; Graham, David W; Topp, Edward

2013-09-01

Antibiotic resistance and associated genes are ubiquitous and ancient, with most genes that encode resistance in human pathogens having originated in bacteria from the natural environment (eg, β-lactamases and fluoroquinolones resistance genes, such as qnr). The rapid evolution and spread of "new" antibiotic resistance genes has been enhanced by modern human activity and its influence on the environmental resistome. This highlights the importance of including the role of the environmental vectors, such as bacterial genetic diversity within soil and water, in resistance risk management. We need to take more steps to decrease the spread of resistance genes in environmental bacteria into human pathogens, to decrease the spread of resistant bacteria to people and animals via foodstuffs, wastes and water, and to minimize the levels of antibiotics and antibiotic-resistant bacteria introduced into the environment. Reducing this risk must include improved management of waste containing antibiotic residues and antibiotic-resistant microorganisms.

Influence of loading and unloading velocity of confining pressure on strength and permeability characteristics of crystalline sandstone

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Dong-ming; Yang, Yu-shun; Chu, Ya-pei; Zhang, Xiang; Xue, Yan-guang

2018-06-01

The triaxial compression test of crystalline sandstone under different loading and unloading velocity of confining pressure is carried out by using the self-made "THM coupled with servo-controlled seepage apparatus for containing-gas coal", analyzed the strength, deformation and permeability characteristics of the sample, the results show that: with the increase of confining pressures loading-unloading velocity, Mohr's stress circle center of the specimen shift to the right, and the ultimate intensity, peak strain and residual stress of the specimens increase gradually. With the decrease of unloading velocity of confining pressure, the axial strain, the radial strain and the volumetric strain of the sample decrease first and then increases, but the radial strain decreases more greatly. The loading and unloading of confining pressure has greater influence on axial strain of specimens. The deformation modulus decreases rapidly with the increase of axial strain and the Poisson's ratio decreases gradually at the initial stage of loading. When the confining pressure is loaded, the deformation modulus decrease gradually, and the Poisson's ratio increases gradually. When the confining pressure is unloaded, the deformation modulus increase gradually, and the Poisson's ratio decreases gradually. When the specimen reaches the ultimate intensity, the deformation modulus decreases rapidly, while the Poisson's ratio increases rapidly. The fitting curve of the confining pressure and the deformation modulus and the Poisson's ratio in accordance with the distribution of quadratic polynomial function in the loading-unloading confining pressure. There is a corresponding relationship between the evolution of rock permeability and damage deformation during the process of loading and unloading. In the late stage of yielding, the permeability increases slowly, and the permeability increases sharply after the rock sample is destroyed. Fitting the permeability and confining pressure conform to the variation law of the exponential function.

Variations of rat thyroid activity during exposure to high environmental temperature (34 degrees C). Relation between hypothalamic pituitary and thyroid hormone levels.

PubMed

Rousset, B; Cure, M

1975-01-01

Changes in thyroid activity and variations in the hypthalamo-pituitary-thyroid hormone levels were examined in rats exposed to heat (34 degrees C)for3 weeks. Thyroid activity evaluated histologically (epithelium/colloid ratio, nuclear size) by radioiodine exploration (24 hrs 125 I uptake, ratio of mono- to di-125 iodotyrosines - MIT/DIT, ratio of tri- to tetra-125 iodothyronines-T3/T4, and plasma 125I-T4 and assay of plasma T4, evolves in a triphasic manner. 1.a depression phase between day 0 and day 2.5. 2. a rebound of thyroid activity between day 2.5 and day 9.3 a stabilization of thyroid parameters from day 9 to day 24. These results indicate adaptation of thyroid function to heat after 3 weeks. In phase i, plasma TSH )MeKenzie bioassay) fell to undectable levels concurrent with a 50% decrease in hypothalamic TRH (in vitro assay). Plasma TSH peaked on day 4.5, fell on day 9.5 and returned progressively to initial levels. Hypothalamic TRH returned to initial levels after 6.5 days. The rapid and simultaneous decrease in hypothalamic TRH, plasma TSH, plasma T4 and thyroid activity by the 36th hour of heat exposure (34 degrees C) suggests initiation at the hypothalamic level. In the secound phase, the rebound in thyroid activity is presumably due to the peak in circulating TSH in ralation to the marked decrease in plasma T4. The oscillations of phase 2 and the stabilization of all the thyroid parameters in phase 3 may be the reflection of an apparent discrepancy remains between a low plasma T4 and a normal or subnormal plasma TSH. A modification in the "set point" for the control of TSH secretion is discussed.