Constitutive Signaling from an Engineered IL7 Receptor Promotes Durable Tumor Elimination by Tumor-Redirected T Cells.

PubMed

Shum, Thomas; Omer, Bilal; Tashiro, Haruko; Kruse, Robert L; Wagner, Dimitrios L; Parikh, Kathan; Yi, Zhongzhen; Sauer, Tim; Liu, Daofeng; Parihar, Robin; Castillo, Paul; Liu, Hao; Brenner, Malcolm K; Metelitsa, Leonid S; Gottschalk, Stephen; Rooney, Cliona M

2017-11-01

Successful adoptive T-cell immunotherapy of solid tumors will require improved expansion and cytotoxicity of tumor-directed T cells within tumors. Providing recombinant or transgenic cytokines may produce the desired benefits but is associated with significant toxicities, constraining clinical use. To circumvent this limitation, we constructed a constitutively signaling cytokine receptor, C7R, which potently triggers the IL7 signaling axis but is unresponsive to extracellular cytokine. This strategy augments modified T-cell function following antigen exposure, but avoids stimulating bystander lymphocytes. Coexpressing the C7R with a tumor-directed chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) increased T-cell proliferation, survival, and antitumor activity during repeated exposure to tumor cells, without T-cell dysfunction or autonomous T-cell growth. Furthermore, C7R-coexpressing CAR T cells were active against metastatic neuroblastoma and orthotopic glioblastoma xenograft models even at cell doses that had been ineffective without C7R support. C7R may thus be able to enhance antigen-specific T-cell therapies against cancer. Significance: The constitutively signaling C7R system developed here delivers potent IL7 stimulation to CAR T cells, increasing their persistence and antitumor activity against multiple preclinical tumor models, supporting its clinical development. Cancer Discov; 7(11); 1238-47. ©2017 AACR. This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 1201 . ©2017 American Association for Cancer Research.

Gene 1.7 of bacteriophage T7 confers sensitivity of phage growth to dideoxythymidine.

PubMed

Tran, Ngoc Q; Rezende, Lisa F; Qimron, Udi; Richardson, Charles C; Tabor, Stanley

2008-07-08

Bacteriophage T7 DNA polymerase efficiently incorporates dideoxynucleotides into DNA, resulting in chain termination. Dideoxythymidine (ddT) present in the medium at levels not toxic to Escherichia coli inhibits phage T7. We isolated 95 T7 phage mutants that were resistant to ddT. All contained a mutation in T7 gene 1.7, a nonessential gene of unknown function. When gene 1.7 was expressed from a plasmid, T7 phage resistant to ddT still arose; analysis of 36 of these mutants revealed that all had a single mutation in gene 5, which encodes T7 DNA polymerase. This mutation changes tyrosine-526 to phenylalanine, which is known to increase dramatically the ability of T7 DNA polymerase to discriminate against dideoxynucleotides. DNA synthesis in cells infected with wild-type T7 phage was inhibited by ddT, suggesting that it resulted in chain termination of DNA synthesis in the presence of gene 1.7 protein. Overexpression of gene 1.7 from a plasmid rendered E. coli cells sensitive to ddT, indicating that no other T7 proteins are required to confer sensitivity to ddT.

Reconstruction of 7T-Like Images From 3T MRI

PubMed Central

Bahrami, Khosro; Shi, Feng; Zong, Xiaopeng; Shin, Hae Won; An, Hongyu

2016-01-01

In the recent MRI scanning, ultra-high-field (7T) MR imaging provides higher resolution and better tissue contrast compared to routine 3T MRI, which may help in more accurate and early brain diseases diagnosis. However, currently, 7T MRI scanners are more expensive and less available at clinical and research centers. These motivate us to propose a method for the reconstruction of images close to the quality of 7T MRI, called 7T-like images, from 3T MRI, to improve the quality in terms of resolution and contrast. By doing so, the post-processing tasks, such as tissue segmentation, can be done more accurately and brain tissues details can be seen with higher resolution and contrast. To do this, we have acquired a unique dataset which includes paired 3T and 7T images scanned from same subjects, and then propose a hierarchical reconstruction based on group sparsity in a novel multi-level Canonical Correlation Analysis (CCA) space, to improve the quality of 3T MR image to be 7T-like MRI. First, overlapping patches are extracted from the input 3T MR image. Then, by extracting the most similar patches from all the aligned 3T and 7T images in the training set, the paired 3T and 7T dictionaries are constructed for each patch. It is worth noting that, for the training, we use pairs of 3T and 7T MR images from each training subject. Then, we propose multi-level CCA to map the paired 3T and 7T patch sets to a common space to increase their correlations. In such space, each input 3T MRI patch is sparsely represented by the 3T dictionary and then the obtained sparse coefficients are used together with the corresponding 7T dictionary to reconstruct the 7T-like patch. Also, to have the structural consistency between adjacent patches, the group sparsity is employed. This reconstruction is performed with changing patch sizes in a hierarchical framework. Experiments have been done using 13 subjects with both 3T and 7T MR images. The results show that our method outperforms previous

L'etude de l'InP et du GaP suite a l'implantation ionique de Mn et a un recuit thermique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bucsa, Ioan Gigel

Cette these est dediee a l'etude des materiaux InMnP et GaMnP fabriques par implantation ionique et recuit thermique. Plus precisement nous avons investigue la possibilite de former par implantation ionique des materiaux homogenes (alliages) de InMnP et GaMnP contenant de 1 a 5 % atomiques de Mn qui seraient en etat ferromagnetique, pour des possibles applications dans la spintronique. Dans un premier chapitre introductif nous donnons les motivations de cette recherche et faisons une revue de la litterature sur ce sujet. Le deuxieme chapitre decrit les principes de l'implantation ionique, qui est la technique utilisee pour la fabrication des echantillons. Les effets de l'energie, fluence et direction du faisceau ionique sur le profil d'implantation et la formation des dommages seront mis en evidence. Aussi dans ce chapitre nous allons trouver des informations sur les substrats utilises pour l'implantation. Les techniques experimentales utilisees pour la caracterisation structurale, chimique et magnetique des echantillons, ainsi que leurs limitations sont presentees dans le troisieme chapitre. Quelques principes theoriques du magnetisme necessaires pour la comprehension des mesures magnetiques se retrouvent dans le chapitre 4. Le cinquieme chapitre est dedie a l'etude de la morphologie et des proprietes magnetiques des substrats utilises pour implantation et le sixieme chapitre, a l'etude des echantillons implantes au Mn sans avoir subi un recuit thermique. Notamment nous allons voir dans ce chapitre que l'implantation de Mn a plus que 1016 ions/cm 2 amorphise la partie implantee du materiau et le Mn implante se dispose en profondeur sur un profil gaussien. De point de vue magnetique les atomes implantes se trouvent dans un etat paramagnetique entre 5 et 300 K ayant le spin 5/2. Dans le chapitre 7 nous presentons les proprietes des echantillons recuits a basses temperatures. Nous allons voir que dans ces echantillons la couche implantee est polycristalline et les

Hyperglycemia-Induced Changes in ZIP7 and ZnT7 Expression Cause Zn2+ Release From the Sarco(endo)plasmic Reticulum and Mediate ER Stress in the Heart.

PubMed

Tuncay, Erkan; Bitirim, Verda C; Durak, Aysegul; Carrat, Gaelle R J; Taylor, Kathryn M; Rutter, Guy A; Turan, Belma

2017-05-01

Changes in cellular free Zn 2+ concentration, including those in the sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum [S(E)R], are primarily coordinated by Zn 2+ transporters (ZnTs) whose identity and role in the heart are not well established. We hypothesized that ZIP7 and ZnT7 transport Zn 2+ in opposing directions across the S(E)R membrane in cardiomyocytes and that changes in their activity play an important role in the development of ER stress during hyperglycemia. The subcellular S(E)R localization of ZIP7 and ZnT7 was determined in cardiomyocytes and in isolated S(E)R preparations. Markedly increased mRNA and protein levels of ZIP7 were observed in ventricular cardiomyocytes from diabetic rats or high-glucose-treated H9c2 cells while ZnT7 expression was low. In addition, we observed increased ZIP7 phosphorylation in response to high glucose in vivo and in vitro. By using recombinant-targeted Förster resonance energy transfer sensors, we show that hyperglycemia induces a marked redistribution of cellular free Zn 2+ , increasing cytosolic free Zn 2+ and lowering free Zn 2+ in the S(E)R. These changes involve alterations in ZIP7 phosphorylation and were suppressed by small interfering RNA-mediated silencing of CK2α. Opposing changes in the expression of ZIP7 and ZnT7 were also observed in hyperglycemia. We conclude that subcellular free Zn 2+ redistribution in the hyperglycemic heart, resulting from altered ZIP7 and ZnT7 activity, contributes to cardiac dysfunction in diabetes. © 2017 by the American Diabetes Association.

Cloning and expression of the gene for bacteriophage T7 RNA polymerase

DOEpatents

Studier, F.W.; Davanloo, P.; Rosenberg, A.H.; Moffatt, B.A.; Dunn, J.J.

1997-12-02

This application describes a means to clone a functional gene for bacteriophage T7 RNA polymerase. Active T7 RNA polymerase is produced from the cloned gene, and a plasmid has been constructed that can produce the active enzyme in large amounts. T7 RNA polymerase transcribes DNA very efficiently and is highly selective for a relatively long promoter sequence. This enzyme is useful for synthesizing large amounts of RNA in vivo or in vitro, and is capable of producing a single RNA selectively from a complex mixture of DNAs. The procedure used to obtain a clone of the R7 RNA polymerase gene can be applied to other T7-like phages to obtain clones that produce RNA polymerases having different promoter specificities, different bacterial hosts, or other desirable properties. T7 RNA polymerase is also used in a system for selective, high-level synthesis of RNAs and proteins in suitable host cells. 10 figs.

Cloning and expression of the gene for bacteriophage T7 RNA polymerase

DOEpatents

Studier, F. William; Davanloo, Parichehre; Rosenberg, Alan H.; Moffatt, Barbara A.; Dunn, John J.

1999-02-09

This application describes a means to clone a functional gene for bacteriophage T7 RNA polymerase. Active T7 RNA polymerase is produced from the cloned gene, and a plasmid has been constructed that can produce the active enzyme in large amounts. T7 RNA polymerase transcribes DNA very efficiently and is highly selective for a relatively long promoter sequence. This enzyme is useful for synthesizing large amounts of RNA in vivo or in vitro, and is capable of producing a single RNA selectively from a complex mixture of DNAs. The procedure used to obtain a clone of the R7 RNA polymerase gene can be applied to other T7-like phages to obtain clones that produce RNA polymerases having different promoter specificities, different bacterial hosts, or other desirable properties. T7 RNA polymerase is also used in a system for selective, high-level synthesis of RNAs and proteins in suitable host cells.

Cloning and expression of the gene for bacteriophage T7 RNA polymerase

DOEpatents

Studier, F. William; Davanloo, Parichehre; Rosenberg, Alan H.; Moffatt, Barbara A.; Dunn, John J.

1997-12-02

This application describes a means to clone a functional gene for bacteriophage T7 RNA polymerase. Active T7 RNA polymerase is produced from the cloned gene, and a plasmid has been constructed that can produce the active enzyme in large amounts. T7 RNA polymerase transcribes DNA very efficiently and is highly selective for a relatively long promoter sequence. This enzyme is useful for synthesizing large amounts of RNA in vivo or in vitro, and is capable of producing a single RNA selectively from a complex mixture of DNAs. The procedure used to obtain a clone of the R7 RNA polymerase gene can be applied to other T7-like phages to obtain clones that produce RNA polymerases having different promoter specificities, different bacterial hosts, or other desirable properties. T7 RNA polymerase is also used in a system for selective, high-level synthesis of RNAs and proteins in suitable host cells.

Cloning and expression of the gene for bacteriophage T7 RNA polymerase

DOEpatents

Studier, F.W.; Davanloo, P.; Rosenberg, A.H.; Moffatt, B.A.; Dunn, J.J.

1999-02-09

This application describes a means to clone a functional gene for bacteriophage T7 RNA polymerase. Active T7 RNA polymerase is produced from the cloned gene, and a plasmid has been constructed that can produce the active enzyme in large amounts. T7 RNA polymerase transcribes DNA very efficiently and is highly selective for a relatively long promoter sequence. This enzyme is useful for synthesizing large amounts of RNA in vivo or in vitro, and is capable of producing a single RNA selectively from a complex mixture of DNAs. The procedure used to obtain a clone of the R7 RNA polymerase gene can be applied to other T7-like phages to obtain clones that produce RNA polymerases having different promoter specificities, different bacterial hosts, or other desirable properties. T7 RNA polymerase is also used in a system for selective, high-level synthesis of RNAs and proteins in suitable host cells. 10 figs.

Recombinant human interleukin-7 (CYT107) promotes T-cell recovery after allogeneic stem cell transplantation

PubMed Central

Goldberg, Jenna D.; Yuan, Jianda; Koehne, Guenther; Lechner, Lauren; Papadopoulos, Esperanza B.; Young, James W.; Jakubowski, Ann A.; Zaidi, Bushra; Gallardo, Humilidad; Liu, Cailian; Rasalan, Teresa; Wolchok, Jedd D.; Croughs, Therese; Morre, Michel; Devlin, Sean M.; van den Brink, Marcel R. M.

2012-01-01

Delays in immune recovery after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) are associated with increased risks of infection and relapse. IL-7 has a central role in T-cell development and survival and enhances immune recovery in murine models of allo-HSCT. We performed a phase 1 trial of r-hIL-7 (CYT107) in recipients of T-cell depleted allo-HSCTs. Twelve patients were treated with escalating doses of r-hIL-7 administered weekly for 3 weeks. The study drug was well tolerated with only one patient developing acute skin GVHD. At baseline, patients were profoundly lymphopenic. CYT107 induced a doubling in CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. The main effect of IL-7 was an expansion of effector memory T cells, the predominant subset identified in our patients. There was no significant effect on CD4+CD25+FoxP3+ T cells, NK, or B cells. Importantly, we not only saw quantitative increases in T cells after a short course of IL-7 but also demonstrated an increase in functional T cells, including viral-specific T cells that recognize CMV. Enhanced TCR diversity was also observed after treatment. Our results indicate that r-hIL-7 can enhance immune recovery after a T cell–depleted allo-HSCT without causing significant GVHD or other serious toxicity (www.clinicaltrials.gov; NCT00684008). PMID:23012326

Mathematical Model of Naive T Cell Division and Survival IL-7 Thresholds.

PubMed

Reynolds, Joseph; Coles, Mark; Lythe, Grant; Molina-París, Carmen

2013-01-01

We develop a mathematical model of the peripheral naive T cell population to study the change in human naive T cell numbers from birth to adulthood, incorporating thymic output and the availability of interleukin-7 (IL-7). The model is formulated as three ordinary differential equations: two describe T cell numbers, in a resting state and progressing through the cell cycle. The third is introduced to describe changes in IL-7 availability. Thymic output is a decreasing function of time, representative of the thymic atrophy observed in aging humans. Each T cell is assumed to possess two interleukin-7 receptor (IL-7R) signaling thresholds: a survival threshold and a second, higher, proliferation threshold. If the IL-7R signaling strength is below its survival threshold, a cell may undergo apoptosis. When the signaling strength is above the survival threshold, but below the proliferation threshold, the cell survives but does not divide. Signaling strength above the proliferation threshold enables entry into cell cycle. Assuming that individual cell thresholds are log-normally distributed, we derive population-average rates for apoptosis and entry into cell cycle. We have analyzed the adiabatic change in homeostasis as thymic output decreases. With a parameter set representative of a healthy individual, the model predicts a unique equilibrium number of T cells. In a parameter range representative of persistent viral or bacterial infection, where naive T cell cycle progression is impaired, a decrease in thymic output may result in the collapse of the naive T cell repertoire.

Transverse water relaxation in whole blood and erythrocytes at 3T, 7T, 9.4T, 11.7T and 16.4T; determination of intracellular hemoglobin and extracellular albumin relaxivities.

PubMed

Grgac, Ksenija; Li, Wenbo; Huang, Alan; Qin, Qin; van Zijl, Peter C M

2017-05-01

Blood is a physiological substance with multiple water compartments, which contain water-binding proteins such as hemoglobin in erythrocytes and albumin in plasma. Knowing the water transverse (R 2 ) relaxation rates from these different blood compartments is a prerequisite for quantifying the blood oxygenation level-dependent (BOLD) effect. Here, we report the Carr-Purcell-Meiboom-Gill (CPMG) based transverse (R 2CPMG ) relaxation rates of water in bovine blood samples circulated in a perfusion system at physiological temperature in order to mimic blood perfusion in humans. R 2CPMG values of blood plasma, lysed packed erythrocytes, lysed plasma/erythrocyte mixtures, and whole blood at 3 T, 7 T, 9.4 T, 11.7 T and 16.4 T were measured as a function of hematocrit or hemoglobin concentration, oxygenation, and CPMG inter-echo spacing (τ cp ). R 2CPMG in lysed cells showed a small τ cp dependence, attributed to the water exchange rate between free and hemoglobin-bound water to be much faster than τ cp . This was contrary to the tangential dependence in whole blood, where a much slower exchange between cells and blood plasma applies. Whole blood data were fitted as a function of τ cp using a general tangential correlation time model applicable for exchange as well as diffusion contributions to R 2CPMG , and the intercept R 20blood at infinitely short τ cp was determined. The R 20blood values at different hematocrit and the R 2CPMG values of lysed erythrocyte/plasma mixtures at different hemoglobin concentration were used to determine the relaxivity of hemoglobin inside the erythrocyte (r 2Hb ) and albumin (r 2Alb ) in plasma. The r 2Hb values obtained from lysed erythrocytes and whole blood were comparable at full oxygenation. However, while r 2Hb determined from lysed cells showed a linear dependence on oxygenation, this dependence became quadratic in whole blood. This possibly suggests an additional relaxation effect inside intact cells, perhaps due to hemoglobin

Survie au cancer du sein à Rabat (Maroc) 2005-2008

PubMed Central

Mechita, Nada Bennani; Tazi, Mohammed Adnane; Er-Raki, Abdelouahed; Mrabet, Mustapha; Saadi, Asma; Benjaafar, Noureddine; Razine, Rachid

2016-01-01

Introduction Le cancer du sein représente un problème de santé publique au Maroc. L’objectif de ce travail était d’estimer le taux de survie au cancer du sein chez les patientes habitant la ville de Rabat. Méthodes Etude pronostique réalisée chez les patientes diagnostiquées pour cancer du sein de 2005 à 2008, habitant la ville de Rabat et enregistrées au registre des cancers de Rabat. La date d’inclusion dans l’étude correspondait à la date de confirmation histologique du cancer. L’estimation de la survie a été réalisée par la méthode de Kaplan Meier, et la comparaison entre les différentes classes d’une variable a été réalisée par le test de log rank. L’étude des facteurs associés à la survie a été effectuée par le modèle de Cox. Résultats Durant la période d’étude 628 cas de cancer du sein ont été collectés. Le pourcentage de décès était de 19,9%. La survie globale à un an était de 97,1%, elle était de 89,2% à 3 ans et de 80,6 % à 5 ans. En analyse multivariée la survie au cancer du sein était statistiquement moins bonne chez les patientes âgées de plus de 70 ans (p<0,001), ayantune grande taille de tumeur (p<0,001), un stade avancé d’adénopathies (p=0,007), présentant des métastases (p<0,001) et non traitées par hormonothérapie (p=0,002). Conclusion Une grande taille de la tumeur et la présence de métastases sont des facteurs de mauvais pronostic du cancer du sein d’où la nécessité de renforcer les programmes de dépistage. PMID:28292106

In-vitro Gd-DTPA Relaxometry Studies in Oxygenated Venous Human Blood and Aqueous Solution at 3 and 7T

PubMed Central

Kalavagunta, Chaitanya; Michaeli, Shalom; Metzger, Gregory J.

2014-01-01

In-vitro T1 and T2* relaxivities (r1 and r2*) of Gd-DTPA (GaD) in oxygenated human venous blood (OVB) and aqueous solution (AS) at 3T and 7T were calculated. GaD concentrations ([GaD]) in OVB and AS were prepared in the range 0–5 mM. All measurements were acquired at 37±2 °C. At both 3T and 7T, a linear relationship was observed between [GaD] and R1 in both AS and OVB. At 7T, r1 in AS decreased by 7.5% (p = 0.045) while there was a negligible change in OVB. With respect to R2*, a linear relationship with [GaD] was only observed in AS, while a more complex relationship was observed in OVB; quadratic below and linear above 2 mM at both field strengths. There was a significant increase of over four-fold in r2* with GaD in OVB at 7T (for [GaD] above 2mM, p ≪0.01) as compared to 3T. Furthermore, in comparison to r1, r2* in AS was less than two-fold higher at both field strengths while in OVB it was ~twenty-fold and ~ninety-fold higher at 3T and 7T, respectively. This observation emphasizes the importance of r2* knowledge at high magnetic fields, ≥3T. The comparison between r1 and r2* presented in this work is crucial in the design and optimization of high field MRI studies making use of paramagnetic contrast agents. This is especially true in multiple compartment systems such as blood where r2* dramatically increases while r1 remains relatively constant with increasing magnetic field strength. PMID:24523062

Overexpression of Escherichia coli udk mimics the absence of T7 Gp2 function and thereby abrogates successful infection by T7 phage.

PubMed

Shadrin, Andrey; Sheppard, Carol; Savalia, Dhruti; Severinov, Konstantin; Wigneshweraraj, Sivaramesh

2013-02-01

Successful infection of Escherichia coli by bacteriophage T7 relies upon the transcription of the T7 genome by two different RNA polymerases (RNAps). The bacterial RNAp transcribes early T7 promoters, whereas middle and late T7 genes are transcribed by the T7 RNAp. Gp2, a T7-encoded transcription factor, is a 7 kDa product of an essential middle T7 gene 2, and is a potent inhibitor of the host RNAp. The essential biological role of Gp2 is to inhibit transcription of early T7 genes that fail to terminate efficiently in order to facilitate the coordinated usage of the T7 genome by both host and phage RNAps. Overexpression of the E. coli udk gene, which encodes a uridine/cytidine kinase, interferes with T7 infection. We demonstrate that overexpression of udk antagonizes Gp2 function in E. coli in the absence of T7 infection and thus independently of T7-encoded factors. It seems that overexpression of udk reduces Gp2 stability and functionality during T7 infection, which consequently results in inadequate inhibition of host RNAp and in the accumulation of early T7 transcripts. In other words, overexpression of udk mimics the absence of Gp2 during T7 infection. Our study suggests that the transcriptional regulation of the T7 genome is surprisingly complex and might potentially be affected at many levels by phage- and host-encoded factors.

P2X7 receptor expression levels determine lethal effects of a purine based danger signal in T lymphocytes.

PubMed

Aswad, Fred; Dennert, Gunther

2006-09-01

Contact of T lymphocytes with nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) or ATP causes cell death that requires expression of purinergic receptor P2X(7) (P2X(7)R). T cell subsets differ in their responses to NAD and ATP, which awaits a mechanistic explanation. Here, we show that sensitivity to ATP correlates with P2X(7)R expression levels in CD4 cells, CD8 cells and CD4(+)CD25(+) cells from both C57BL/6 and BALB/c mice. But P2X(7)R ligands do not only induce cell death but also shedding of CD62L. It is shown here that in CD62L(high) T cells, CD62L shedding correlates with low expression of P2X(7)Rs and lower cell death, whereas in CD62L(low) cells P2X(7)R expression and death are higher. The possibility is therefore investigated that P2X(7)Rs induce T cell activation. Experiments show that spontaneous T cell proliferation is somewhat higher in cells expressing P2X(7)Rs, but this effect we suggest is caused by P2X(7)R expression on accessory cells.

Interventional loopless antenna at 7 T.

PubMed

Ertürk, Mehmet Arcan; El-Sharkawy, Abdel-Monem M; Bottomley, Paul A

2012-09-01

The loopless antenna magnetic resonance imaging detector is comprised of a tuned coaxial cable with an extended central conductor that can be fabricated at submillimeter diameters for interventional use in guidewires, catheters, or needles. Prior work up to 4.7 T suggests a near-quadratic gain in signal-to-noise ratio with field strength and safe operation at 3 T. Here, for the first time, the signal-to-noise ratio performance and radiofrequency safety of the loopless antenna are investigated both theoretically, using the electromagnetic method-of-moments, and experimentally in a standard 7 T human scanner. The results are compared with equivalent 3 T devices. An absolute signal-to-noise ratio gain of 5.7 ± 1.5-fold was realized at 7 T vs. 3 T: more than 20-fold higher than at 1.5 T. The effective field-of-view area also increased approximately 10-fold compared with 3 T. Testing in a saline gel phantom suggested that safe operation is possible with maximum local 1-g average specific absorption rates of <12 W kg(-1) and temperature increases of <1.9°C, normalized to a 4 W kg(-1) radiofrequency field exposure at 7 T. The antenna did not affect the power applied to the scanner's transmit coil. The signal-to-noise ratio gain enabled magnetic resonance imaging microscopy at 40-50 μm resolution in diseased human arterial specimens, offering the potential of high-resolution large-field-of-view or endoscopic magnetic resonance imaging for targeted intervention in focal disease. Copyright © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Etude du pronostic maternel et périnatal au cours de l’accouchement chez l’adolescente à Lubumbashi, République Démocratique du Congo

PubMed Central

Luhete, Prosper Kakudji; Mukuku, Olivier; Tambwe, Albert Mwembo; Kayamba, Prosper Kalenga Muenze

2017-01-01

Introduction L’objectif de cette étude était de déterminer la fréquence et d’évaluer le pronostic maternel et périnatal lors de l’accouchement chez les adolescentes dans la ville de Lubumbashi. Méthodes C’était une étude cas-témoin des accouchées d’une grossesse monofoetale de Décembre 2013 à Mai 2014 dans 10 maternités de référence à Lubumbashi (RD Congo). Les adolescentes (< 20 ans) ont été comparées aux femmes âgées de 20-34 ans. Les paramètres sociodémographiques maternels, la morbi-mortalité maternelle et périnatale ont été analysées. Les statistiques usuelles et la régression logistique ont été utilisées pour analyser les résultats. Le seuil de signification a été fixé à une valeur de p<0,05. Résultats La fréquence d’accouchement chez les adolescentes était de 7,7%. Nous avons observé que la césarienne (ORa=1,9 (1,1-3,1)), l’épisiotomie (ORa=4,2 (2,9-5,9)), la délivrance pathologique (ORa= 2,7 (1,1-6,5)), l’éclampsie (ORa= 4,4 (1,3-14,5)) et le faible poids de naissance (ORa=2,0 (1,3-3,0)) ont été significativement plus élevés chez les adolescentes que chez les adultes. Conclusion L’accouchement chez les adolescentes, comparativement à celui de femmes âgées de 20-34 ans, reste associé à un mauvais pronostic. D’où l’organisation des séances de sensibilisation pour une meilleure fréquentation des services consultations prénatales, une optimisation du dépistage, de la surveillance et de la prévention des pathologies de la grossesse chez les adolescentes s’avère importante et urgente. Introduction This study aimed to determine the frequency and to assess maternal and perinatal prognosis for vaginal delivery in adolescent girls in the city of Lubumbashi. Methods We conducted a case-control study of vaginal deliveries in singleton pregnancy in 10 referral hospitals in Lubumbashi (DR Congo) from December 2013 to May 2014. Adolescent girls (< 20 years) were compared to older women

A self-initiating eukaryotic transient gene expression system based on contransfection of bacteriophage T7 RNA polymerase and DNA vectors containing a T7 autogene.

PubMed Central

Chen, X; Li, Y; Xiong, K; Wagner, T E

1994-01-01

A novel cytoplasmic gene expression system has been developed. This system differs from other expression systems in that it relies on the co-delivery of plasmid DNA and T7 RNA polymerase (RNAP) during transfection. The plasmid contains a T7 RNAP gene driven by the T7 promoter (T7 autogene) and a functional/reporter gene driven by another T7 promoter (T7T7/T7-gene construct). Once this DNA-enzyme complex is introduced into eukaryotic cells, the transcription of the T7 RNAP and the functional/reporter genes is initiated by the co-delivered T7 RNAP. The T7 RNAP, which is responsible for the initiation and maintenance of expression of both T7 and functional/reporter genes, is replenished by translation of newly synthesized T7 mRNA. This T7 system was designed in such a manner that the expression of the functional/reporter genes can occur in the cytoplasm and does not require any nuclear involvement. When transfected by either a pT7T7/T7Luc or a pT7T7/T7hGH plasmids with the cointroduced T7 RNAP, mouse L cells were found to express high levels of luciferase immediately after transfection, apparently due to the cytoplasmic gene expression; the expression of human growth hormone (hGH) could be sustained for at least 6 days. Both T7 and hGH mRNA were expressed by the cells transfected with pT7T7/T7hGH. These results suggest that this cytoplasmic expression system may be used for certain targets of somatic gene therapy. Images PMID:8029020

Facteurs de risque de la tuberculose multi-résistante dans la ville de Kinshasa en République Démocratique du Congo

PubMed Central

Misombo-Kalabela, André; Nguefack-Tsague, Georges; Kalla, Ginette Claude Mireille; Ze, Emmanuel Afane; Diangs, Kimpanga; Panda, Tshapenda; Kebela, Ilunga; Fueza, Serge Bisuta; Magazani, Nzanzu; Mbopi-Kéou, François-Xavier

2016-01-01

Introduction L'objectif de cette étude était de déterminer les facteurs de risque associés à la tuberculose multi résistance à Kinshasa en République Démocratique du Congo. Méthodes Il s'agissait d'une étude cas témoins. Les cas comprenaient tous les patients tuberculeux résistants à la rifampicine et à l'isoniazide notifiés à Kinshasa de janvier 2012 à juin 2013. Les témoins étaient les patients tuberculeux traités durant la même période que les cas et qui à la fin du traitement étaient déclarés guéris. Pour cette étude, nous avons obtenu une clairance éthique. Résultats L’échantillon était constitué de 213 participants dont 132 hommes (62%) et 81 femmes (38%). L’âge médian était de 31ans (16-73 ans). Les facteurs associés significatifs (p< 0,05) à la tuberculose multi résistante étaient le non-respect des heures de prise de médicaments (0R = 111) (80% chez les cas et 4% chez les témoins), l’échec au traitement (0R = 20) (76% chez les cas et 13% chez les témoins); la notion de tuberculose multi résistante dans la famille (0R = 6.4) (28% chez les cas et 6% chez les témoins); la méconnaissance de la tuberculose multi résistante (0R = 3.2) (31% chez les cas et 59% chez les témoins); un séjour en prison (0R = 7.6) (10% chez les cas et 1% chez les témoins) et l'interruption du traitement (0R = 6.1) ( 59% chez les cas et 19% chez les témoins). Conclusion L’émergence de la tuberculose multi résistante peut être évitée par la mise en place des stratégies de diagnostic et de traitement appropriées. PMID:27516818

Zn2+-transporters ZIP7 and ZnT7 play important role in progression of cardiac dysfunction via affecting sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum-mitochondria coupling in hyperglycemic cardiomyocytes.

PubMed

Tuncay, Erkan; Bitirim, C Verda; Olgar, Yusuf; Durak, Aysegul; Rutter, Guy A; Turan, Belma

2018-01-04

Functional contribution of S(E)R-mitochondria coupling to normal cellular processes is crucial and any alteration in S(E)R-mitochondria axis may be responsible for the onset of diseases. Mitochondrial free Zn 2+ level in cardiomyocytes ([Zn 2+ ] Mit ) is lower comparison to either its cytosolic or S(E)R level under physiological condition. However, there is little information about distribution of Zn 2+ -transporters on mitochondria and role of Zn 2+ -dependent mitochondrial-function associated with [Zn 2+ ] Mit . Since we recently have shown how hyperglycemia (HG)-induced changes in ZIP7 and ZnT7 contribute to Zn 2+ -transport across S(E)R and contribute to S(E)R-stress in the heart, herein, we hypothesized that these transporters can also be localized to mitochondria and affect the S(E)R-mitochondria coupling, and thereby contribute to cellular Zn 2+ -muffling between S(E)R-mitochondria in HG-cells. Mitochondrial localizations of ZIP7 and ZnT7 were demonstrated using fluorescence technique while they were confirmed in isolated mitochondrial fractions using biochemical analysis. Markedly decreased ZIP7 and increased ZnT7 levels were measured in isolated mitochondrial fractions from either HG- or doxorubicin, DOX (as positive control)-treated cardiomyocytes. Significantly increases in [Zn 2+ ] Mit and ROS production levels and depolarized mitochondrial membrane potential were also measured in HG cells. The expression levels of some key proteins, responsible for proper S(E)R-mitochondria coupling such as Mfn-1, Fis-1, OPA1, BAP31, STIM1 and PML in either HG- or DOX-cells were supported our above hypothesis, strongly. Overall, this study provides an important description about the role of ZIP7 and ZnT7, localized to both mitochondria and S(E)R and contribute to cellular Zn 2+ -muffling between cellular-compartments in HG or hypertrophic cardiomyocytes via affecting S(E)R-mitochondria coupling. Any alteration in this axis and/or cellular [Zn 2+ ] may provide new

7 T renal MRI: challenges and promises.

PubMed

de Boer, Anneloes; Hoogduin, Johannes M; Blankestijn, Peter J; Li, Xiufeng; Luijten, Peter R; Metzger, Gregory J; Raaijmakers, Alexander J E; Umutlu, Lale; Visser, Fredy; Leiner, Tim

2016-06-01

The progression to 7 Tesla (7 T) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) yields promises of substantial increase in signal-to-noise (SNR) ratio. This increase can be traded off to increase image spatial resolution or to decrease acquisition time. However, renal 7 T MRI remains challenging due to inhomogeneity of the radiofrequency field and due to specific absorption rate (SAR) constraints. A number of studies has been published in the field of renal 7 T imaging. While the focus initially was on anatomic imaging and renal MR angiography, later studies have explored renal functional imaging. Although anatomic imaging remains somewhat limited by inhomogeneous excitation and SAR constraints, functional imaging results are promising. The increased SNR at 7 T has been particularly advantageous for blood oxygen level-dependent and arterial spin labelling MRI, as well as sodium MR imaging, thanks to changes in field-strength-dependent magnetic properties. Here, we provide an overview of the currently available literature on renal 7 T MRI. In addition, we provide a brief overview of challenges and opportunities in renal 7 T MR imaging.

Development of regulatory T cells requires IL-7Rα stimulation by IL-7 or TSLP

PubMed Central

Mazzucchelli, Renata; Hixon, Julie A.; Spolski, Rosanne; Chen, Xin; Li, Wen Qing; Hall, Veronica L.; Willette-Brown, Jami; Hurwitz, Arthur A.; Leonard, Warren J.

2008-01-01

Interleukin-7 (IL-7), a cytokine produced by stromal cells, is required for thymic development and peripheral homeostasis of most major subsets of T cells. We examined whether regulatory T (Treg) cells also required the IL-7 pathway by analyzing IL-7Rα−/− mice. We observed a striking reduction in cells with the Treg surface phenotype (CD4, CD25, GITR (glucocorticoid-induced tumor necrosis factor [TNF]-like receptor), CD45RB, CD62L, CD103) or intracellular markers (cytotoxic T-lymphocyte–associated antigen-4, CTLA-4, and forkhead box transcription factor 3, Foxp3). Foxp3 transcripts were virtually absent in IL-7Rα−/− lymphoid tissues, and no Treg cell suppressive activity could be detected. There are 2 known ligands for IL-7Rα: IL-7 itself and thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP). Surprisingly, mice deficient in IL-7 or the other chain of the TSLP receptor (TSLPR) developed relatively normal numbers of Treg cells. Combined deletion of IL-7 and TSLP receptor greatly reduced Treg cell development in the thymus but was not required for survival of mature peripheral Treg cells. We conclude that Treg cells, like other T cells, require signals from the IL-7 receptor, but unlike other T cells, do not require IL-7 itself because of at least partially overlapping actions of IL-7 and TSLP for development of Treg cells. PMID:18664628

Etude descriptive et analytique du cancer de l’œsophage au Togo

PubMed Central

Oumboma, Bouglouga; Mawuli, Lawson-Ananissoh Laté; Aklesso, Bagny; Laconi, Kaaga; Datouda, Redah

2014-01-01

Introduction Décrire les aspects épidémiologiques, cliniques, endoscopiques et histologiques du cancer de l’œsophage (CO) au Togo. Méthodes Il s'agit d'une étude rétrospective descriptive et analytique menée sur 8 ans (Janvier 2005-Décembre 2012) dans le service d'hépato-gastroentérologie (HGE) du CHU Campus de Lomé. Etaient inclus les dossiers des patients hospitalisés pour CO confirmé histologiquement. Résultats Sur 8 ans, 24 patients remplissant nos critères d'inclusion ont été retenus soit 3cas de CO par an et 0,55% des hospitalisations. L’âge moyen des patients était de 57,08 ans (extrêmes: 32 et 82 ans). La dysphagie et l’épigastralgie étaient les motifs d'hospitalisation les plus rencontrés. L'alcool (n=15), le tabac (n=13) étaient les facteurs de risque les plus présents. A la fibroscopie, les lésions étaient ulcéro-bourgeonnantes et hémorragiques (n=12), ulcéro-bourgeonnantes (n=5); ces lésions siégeaient au niveau du 1/3 inférieur (n= 11), à l'union 1/3 supérieur 1/3moyen de l’œsophage (n= 13) et aucun au niveau du 1/3 supérieur. Seize lésions étaient des carcinomes épidermoïdes et 3 des adénocarcinomes. L’évolution dans le service a été fatale dans 2cas; 16 patients avaient été transférés en chirurgie pour des soins palliatifs et 5 patients (20,8%) étaient perdus de vue. Conclusion Le CO semble en augmentation au Togo. L'alcool et le tabac sont les facteurs de risque et le pronostic sévère dans notre série est lié au retard diagnostic. Son dépistage précoce passe par une consultation rapide devant toute dysphagie chez un sujet de 50 ans et plus. PMID:25883742

Expression of MCM-3 and MCM-7 in Primary Cutaneous T-cell Lymphomas.

PubMed

Jankowska-Konsur, Alina; Kobierzycki, Christopher; Reich, Adam; Grzegrzolka, Jedrzej; Maj, Joanna; Dziegiel, Piotr

2015-11-01

Primary cutaneous T-cell lymphomas is a group of rare non-Hodgkin lymphomas, originally affecting the skin. Increased proliferation activity is a hallmark of diverse tumors and the proliferation rate, measured by the expression of various markers has a predictive value regarding the malignancy course. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the prognostic value and the potential correlation between the expression of proliferation markers Ki-67, MCM-3 and MCM-7, and clinicopathological data for different types of primary cutaneous T-cell lymphomas. Immunohistochemical reactions were performed on paraffin blocks obtained from 90 patients with mycosis fungoides (MF) and 21 patients with other CTCL (oCTCL), in comparison to 19 patients with benign inflammatory dermatosis (lichen planus, eczema), serving as control. Statistically significant differences in the expression of Ki-67, MCM-3 and MCM-7 were observed between oCTCL vs. the control group (29% vs. 5%; 17% vs. 5%; 13% vs. 1.5%, respectively, ANOVA with Scheffé post-hoc test: p<0.01). In both, MF and oCTCL Ki-67 expression highly correlated with the expression of MCM-3 (r=0.83; p<0.001 and r=0.91; p<0.001, respectively) and MCM-7 (r=0.84; p<0.001 and r=0.87; p<0.01, respectively; Pearson correlation test). Similarly, a strong positive correlation was observed between MCM-3 and MCM-7 (r=0.81, p<0.001 and r=0.85, p<0.001). Regarding the MF group, Ki-67 and MCM-3 expression was significantly higher in advanced compared to early stages (11% vs. 3% and 15.5% vs. 5.0%, respectively, Student's t-test: p<0.05). Advanced MF had also significantly higher labeling indexes for Ki-67, MCM-3 and MCM-7 compared to benign inflammatory dermatoses (Student's t-test: p<0.01, p<0.001 and p=0.02, respectively). Considering skin involvement in MF, T1b had a significantly higher expression of Ki-67, MCM-3 and MCM-7 than T1a (p<0.001 for all comparisons) with similar observations between T2b and T2a (p=0.02; p<0.01; p=0

Aspects cliniques et thérapeutiques des anomalies de la jonction pyélo-urétérale au CHU du point G

PubMed Central

Tembely, Aly; Kassogué, Amadou; Berthé, Honoré; Ouattara, Zanafon

2016-01-01

Cette étude a été faite pour analyser les aspects cliniques et thérapeutiques des anomalies de la jonction pyélo-urétérale. Etude transversale et descriptive portant sur 35 cas d'anomalies de la jonction pyélo-urétérale (AJPU) colligés au service d'Urologie du CHU du Point G durant une période de 4 ans (Janvier 2010 au Décembre 2014). Les données ont été recueillies sur les fiches d'enquête, les dossiers médicaux et les registres du bloc. Les données sociodémographique, clinique et thérapeutique ont été saisies sur Microsoft Word 2007 et analysées sur Excel 2007 et SPSS 18.0. 35 cas d'AJPU ont été colligés en 4 ans. La moyenne d’âge était de 29,3 ans. La douleur lombaire était le motif de consultation le plus fréquent soit 40%. 20% des patients ont été en consultation pour la première fois 10 ans d’évolution symptomatique. Une destruction rénale avait été observée dans 28,6%. Le couple Echographie + UIV a permis d’établir le diagnostic chez 37,1%. La complication lithiasique était présente chez 17,1% des patients. 51,4% des patients ont reçu une pyéloplastie à ciel ouvert selon Anderson KUSS. L'anomalie de la jonction pyélo-urétérale dans notre étude a été caractérisée par un retard de consultation avec des complications redoutables. La chirurgie à ciel ouvert a été le gold standard avec des résultats satisfaisants. L'endopyéloplastie, la cure de la jonction coelioscopique sont des chirurgies mini invasives non disponible chez nous mais à encourager et à intégrer dans l'arsenal thérapeutique. PMID:27516821

Analyse des facteurs histo-pronostiques du cancer du rectum non métastatique dans une série ouest Algérienne de 58 cas au CHU-Tlemcen

PubMed Central

Mesli, Smain Nabil; Regagba, Derbali; Tidjane, Anisse; Benkalfat, Mokhtar; Abi-Ayad, Chakib

2016-01-01

Introduction L'objectif de notre travail est d'analyser les facteurs histo-pronostiques des cancers du rectum non métastatique opérés au service de chirurgie «A» de Tlemcen à ouest Algérien durant une période de six ans. Méthodes Etude rétrospective de 58 patients qui avait un adénocarcinome rectal. Le critère de jugement était la survie. Les paramètres étudiés, le sexe, l’âge, stade tumoral, et les récidives tumorales. Résultats L’âge moyen était de 58 ans. Avec 52% d'hommes contre 48% femmes avec sex-ratio (1,08). Le siège tumoral était: moyen rectum avec 41,37%, 34,48% au bas rectum et dans 24,13% au haut rectum. La classification TNM avec 17,65% au stade I, 18,61% au stade II, 53, 44% au stade III et 7,84% au stade IV. La survie médiane globale était de 40 mois ±2,937 mois. La survie en fonction du stade tumoral, le stade III et IV avait un faible taux de survie (19%) a 3 ans contre le stade I, II avait un taux de survie de (75%) (P = 0,000) (IC 95%). Les patients avec récidives tumorales avaient un taux de survie faible à 3 ans par rapport à ceux n'ayant pas eu de récidive (30,85% Vs 64,30% P = 0,043). Conclusion Dans cette série, l’étude uni varié des différents facteurs pronostiques conditionnant la survie n'a permis de retenir que trois facteurs influençant la survie, à savoir la taille tumorale, le stade, et les récidives tumorales. En analyse multi variée en utilisant le modèle Cox un seul facteur été retenu la récidive tumorale. PMID:27583069

Reconstruction de la surface de Fermi dans l'etat normal d'un supraconducteur a haute Tc: Une etude du transport electrique en champ magnetique intense

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Le Boeuf, David

Des mesures de resistance longitudinale et de resistance de Hall en champ magnetique intense transverse (perpendiculaire aux plans CuO2) ont ete effectuees au sein de monocristaux de YBa2Cu3Oy (YBCO) demacles, ordonnes et de grande purete, afin d'etudier l'etat fondamental des supraconducteurs a haute Tc dans le regime sous-dope. Cette etude a ete realisee en fonction du dopage et de l'orientation du courant d'excitation J par rapport a l'axe orthorhombique b de la structure cristalline. Les mesures en champ magnetique intense revelent par suppression de la supraconductivite des oscillations magnetiques des resistances longitudinale et de Hall dans YBa2Cu 3O6.51 et YBa2Cu4O8. La conformite du comportement de ces oscillations quantiques au formalisme de Lifshitz-Kosevich, apporte la preuve de l'existence d'une surface de Fermi fermee a caractere quasi-2D, abritant des quasiparticules coherentes respectant la statistique de Fermi-Dirac, dans la phase pseudogap d'YBCO. La faible frequence des oscillations quantiques, combinee avec l'etude de la partie monotone de la resistance de Hall en fonction de la temperature indique que la surface de Fermi d'YBCO sous-dope comprend une petite poche de Fermi occupee par des porteurs de charge negative. Cette particularite de la surface de Fermi dans le regime sous-dope incompatible avec les calculs de structure de bande est en fort contraste avec la structure electronique presente dans le regime surdope. Cette observation implique ainsi l'existence d'un point critique quantique dans le diagramme de phase d'YBCO, au voisinage duquel la surface de Fermi doit subir une reconstruction induite par l'etablissement d'une brisure de la symetrie de translation du reseau cristallin sous-jacent. Enfin, l'etude en fonction du dopage de la resistance de Hall et de la resistance longitudinale en champ magnetique intense suggere qu'un ordre du type onde de densite (DW) est responsable de la reconstruction de la surface de Fermi. L'analogie de

Advances in the T7 phage display system (Review).

PubMed

Deng, Xiangying; Wang, Li; You, Xiaolong; Dai, Pei; Zeng, Yanhua

2018-01-01

The present review describes the advantages and updated applications of the T7 phage display system in bioscience and medical science. Current phage display systems are based on various bacteriophage vectors, including M13, T7, T4 and f1. Of these, the M13 phage display is the most frequently used, however, the present review highlights the advantages of the T7 system. As a phage display platform, M13 contains single‑stranded DNA, while the T7 phage consists of double‑stranded DNA, which exhibits increased stability and is less prone to mutation during replication. Additional characteristics of the T7 phage include the following: The T7 phage does not depend on a protein secretion pathway in the lytic cycle; expressed peptides and proteins are usually located on the C‑terminal region of capsid protein gp10B, which avoids problems associated with steric hindrance; and T7 phage particles exhibit high stability under various extreme conditions, including high temperature and low pH, which facilitates effective high‑throughput affinity elutriation. Recent applications of the T7 phage display system have been instrumental in uncovering mechanisms of molecular interaction, particularly in the fields of antigen discovery, vaccine development, protein interaction, and cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Fentes labiopalatines dans la province du Katanga en République Démocratique du Congo: Aspects épidémiologiques, anatomocliniques et thérapeutiques

PubMed Central

Sangwa, Cedrick Milindi; Mukuku, Olivier; Tshisuz, Christian; Panda, Jules Mulefu; Kakinga, Mireille; Kitembo, Marius Feruzi; Mutomb, Jean-Felix; Odimba, Bwana Fwamba

2014-01-01

Les fentes labiopalatines sont les malformations les plus rencontrées de la sphère orofaciale. L'objectif est de décrire le profil épidémiologique, anatomoclinique et thérapeutique des fentes labiopalatines observées dans la province minière du Katanga au sud-est de la République Démocratique du Congo. Il s'agit d'une étude transversale réalisée dans quatre institutions hospitalières de la province du Katanga dans des districts sanitaires différents (Hôpital Jason Sendwe à Lubumbashi, Hôpital Gécamines Panda à Likasi, Hôpital Gécamines du personnel à Kolwezi, Hôpital General de référence de Kamina) et qui a porté sur 154 cas de fentes labiopalatines enregistrés au cours de la période allant du 1er mai 2010 au 30 septembre 2012. L'âge moyen de consultation était de 11,8 ans et une prédominance masculine (55,2%) était notée. Un pic était noté chez les deux premiers nés de la famille (55,8%). Nous avons enregistré 20,7% des cas de consanguinité dont 54,2% de premier degré. La fréquence des différents types de fentes labiopalatines diminue au fur à mesure que la fente s'étend de la lèvre supérieure au palais en passant par l'alvéole : 72% (labiales), 21,4% (labiopalatines) et 7,7% (palatines). Les variétés unilatérales sont plus fréquentes (76,7%) que les bilatérales (16,1%). Dans les formes unilatérales, le côté gauche est plus concerné (47,1%) par rapport au côté droit (38,6%). L'évaluation de la gravité selon Anastassov montre que 50,6% de nos patients étaient de degré moyen et 16,2% étaient à un degré sévère. Les malformations associées ont été retrouvées dans 5% des cas et elles sont à prédominance squelettique. C'est la technique de Millard qui a été la plus pratiquée (72/130). Les résultats étaient excellents dans 71,5% contre 1,5% de mauvais. Le séjour d'hospitalisation était de 3 jours et le taux de complications post opératoire était de 2,98%. PMID:25328615

Assessment of MR-based R2* and quantitative susceptibility mapping for the quantification of liver iron concentration in a mouse model at 7T.

PubMed

Simchick, Gregory; Liu, Zhi; Nagy, Tamas; Xiong, May; Zhao, Qun

2018-03-25

To assess the feasibility of quantifying liver iron concentration (LIC) using R2* and quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM) at a high field strength of 7 Tesla (T). Five different concentrations of Fe-dextran were injected into 12 mice to produce various degrees of liver iron overload. After mice were sacrificed, blood and liver samples were harvested. Ferritin enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry were performed to quantify serum ferritin concentration and LIC. Multiecho gradient echo MRI was conducted to estimate R2* and the magnetic susceptibility of each liver sample through complex nonlinear least squares fitting and a morphology enabled dipole inversion method, respectively. Average estimates of serum ferritin concentration, LIC, R2*, and susceptibility all show good linear correlations with injected Fe-dextran concentration; however, the standard deviations in the estimates of R2* and susceptibility increase with injected Fe-dextran concentration. Both R2* and susceptibility measurements also show good linear correlations with LIC (R 2  = 0.78 and R 2  = 0.91, respectively), and a susceptibility-to-LIC conversion factor of 0.829 ppm/(mg/g wet) is derived. The feasibility of quantifying LIC using MR-based  R2* and QSM at a high field strength of 7T is demonstrated. Susceptibility quantification, which is an intrinsic property of tissues and benefits from being field-strength independent, is more robust than R2* quantification in this ex vivo study. A susceptibility-to-LIC conversion factor is presented that agrees relatively well with previously published QSM derived results obtained at 1.5T and 3T. © 2018 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.

Investigation of specific interactions between T7 promoter and T7 RNA polymerase by force spectroscopy using atomic force microscope.

PubMed

Zhang, Xiaojuan; Yao, Zhixuan; Duan, Yanting; Zhang, Xiaomei; Shi, Jinsong; Xu, Zhenghong

2018-01-11

The specific recognition and binding of promoter and RNA polymerase is the first step of transcription initiation in bacteria and largely determines transcription activity. Therefore, direct analysis of the interaction between promoter and RNA polymerase in vitro may be a new strategy for promoter characterization, to avoid interference due to the cell's biophysical condition and other regulatory elements. In the present study, the specific interaction between T7 promoter and T7 RNA polymerase was studied as a model system using force spectroscopy based on atomic force microscope (AFM). The specific interaction between T7 promoter and T7 RNA polymerase was verified by control experiments, and the rupture force in this system was measured as 307.2 ± 6.7 pN. The binding between T7 promoter mutants with various promoter activities and T7 RNA polymerase was analyzed. Interaction information including rupture force, rupture distance and binding percentage were obtained in vitro , and reporter gene expression regulated by these promoters was also measured according to a traditional promoter activity characterization method in vivo Using correlation analysis, it was found that the promoter strength characterized by reporter gene expression was closely correlated with rupture force and the binding percentage by force spectroscopy. These results indicated that the analysis of the interaction between promoter and RNA polymerase using AFM-based force spectroscopy was an effective and valid approach for the quantitative characterization of promoters. © 2018 The Author(s). Published by Portland Press Limited on behalf of the Biochemical Society.

Bacteriophage T7 RNA polymerase-based expression in Pichia pastoris.

PubMed

Hobl, Birgit; Hock, Björn; Schneck, Sandra; Fischer, Reinhard; Mack, Matthias

2013-11-01

A novel Pichia pastoris expression vector (pEZT7) for the production of recombinant proteins employing prokaryotic bacteriophage T7 RNA polymerase (T7 RNAP) (EC 2.7.7.6) and the corresponding promoter pT7 was constructed. The gene for T7 RNAP was stably introduced into the P. pastoris chromosome 2 under control of the (endogenous) constitutive P. pastoris glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAP) promoter (pGAP). The gene product T7 RNAP was engineered to contain a nuclear localization signal, which directed recombinant T7 RNAP to the P. pastoris nucleus. To promote translation of uncapped T7 RNAP derived transcripts, the internal ribosomal entry site from hepatitis C virus (HCV-IRES) was inserted directly upstream of the multiple cloning site of pEZT7. A P. pastoris autonomous replicating sequence (PARS1) was integrated into pEZT7 enabling propagation and recovery of plasmids from P. pastoris. Rapid amplification of 5' complementary DNA ends (5' RACE) experiments employing the test plasmid pEZT7-EGFP revealed that transcripts indeed initiated at pT7. HCV-IRES mediated translation of the latter mRNAs, however, was not observed. Surprisingly, HCV-IRES and the reverse complement of PARS1 (PARS1rc) were both found to display significant promoter activity as shown by 5' RACE. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Regulator of G Protein Signaling 7 (RGS7) Can Exist in a Homo-oligomeric Form That Is Regulated by Gαo and R7-binding Protein.

PubMed

Tayou, Junior; Wang, Qiang; Jang, Geeng-Fu; Pronin, Alexey N; Orlandi, Cesare; Martemyanov, Kirill A; Crabb, John W; Slepak, Vladlen Z

2016-04-22

RGS (regulator of G protein signaling) proteins of the R7 subfamily (RGS6, -7, -9, and -11) are highly expressed in neurons where they regulate many physiological processes. R7 RGS proteins contain several distinct domains and form obligatory dimers with the atypical Gβ subunit, Gβ5 They also interact with other proteins such as R7-binding protein, R9-anchoring protein, and the orphan receptors GPR158 and GPR179. These interactions facilitate plasma membrane targeting and stability of R7 proteins and modulate their activity. Here, we investigated RGS7 complexes using in situ chemical cross-linking. We found that in mouse brain and transfected cells cross-linking causes formation of distinct RGS7 complexes. One of the products had the apparent molecular mass of ∼150 kDa on SDS-PAGE and did not contain Gβ5 Mass spectrometry analysis showed no other proteins to be present within the 150-kDa complex in the amount close to stoichiometric with RGS7. This finding suggested that RGS7 could form a homo-oligomer. Indeed, co-immunoprecipitation of differentially tagged RGS7 constructs, with or without chemical cross-linking, demonstrated RGS7 self-association. RGS7-RGS7 interaction required the DEP domain but not the RGS and DHEX domains or the Gβ5 subunit. Using transfected cells and knock-out mice, we demonstrated that R7-binding protein had a strong inhibitory effect on homo-oligomerization of RGS7. In contrast, our data indicated that GPR158 could bind to the RGS7 homo-oligomer without causing its dissociation. Co-expression of constitutively active Gαo prevented the RGS7-RGS7 interaction. These results reveal the existence of RGS protein homo-oligomers and show regulation of their assembly by R7 RGS-binding partners. © 2016 by The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.

Genetic requirements for sensitivity of bacteriophage t7 to dideoxythymidine.

PubMed

Tran, Ngoc Q; Tabor, Stanley; Richardson, Charles C

2014-08-01

We previously reported that the presence of dideoxythymidine (ddT) in the growth medium selectively inhibits the ability of bacteriophage T7 to infect Escherichia coli by inhibiting phage DNA synthese (N. Q. Tran, L. F. Rezende, U. Qimron, C. C. Richardson, and S. Tabor, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U. S. A. 105:9373-9378, 2008, doi:10.1073/pnas.0804164105). In the presence of T7 gene 1.7 protein, ddT is taken up into the E. coli cell and converted to ddTTP. ddTTP is incorporated into DNA as ddTMP by the T7 DNA polymerase, resulting in chain termination. We have identified the pathway by which exogenous ddT is converted to ddTTP. The pathway consists of ddT transport by host nucleoside permeases and phosphorylation to ddTMP by the host thymidine kinase. T7 gene 1.7 protein phosphorylates ddTMP and ddTDP, resulting in ddTTP. A 74-residue peptide of the gene 1.7 protein confers ddT sensitivity to the same extent as the 196-residue wild-type gene 1.7 protein. We also show that cleavage of thymidine to thymine and deoxyribose-1-phosphate by the host thymidine phosphorylase greatly increases the sensitivity of phage T7 to ddT. Finally, a mutation in T7 DNA polymerase that leads to discrimination against the incorporation of ddTMP eliminates ddT sensitivity. Copyright © 2014, American Society for Microbiology. All Rights Reserved.

Genetic Requirements for Sensitivity of Bacteriophage T7 to Dideoxythymidine

PubMed Central

Tran, Ngoc Q.; Tabor, Stanley

2014-01-01

We previously reported that the presence of dideoxythymidine (ddT) in the growth medium selectively inhibits the ability of bacteriophage T7 to infect Escherichia coli by inhibiting phage DNA synthese (N. Q. Tran, L. F. Rezende, U. Qimron, C. C. Richardson, and S. Tabor, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U. S. A. 105:9373–9378, 2008, doi:10.1073/pnas.0804164105). In the presence of T7 gene 1.7 protein, ddT is taken up into the E. coli cell and converted to ddTTP. ddTTP is incorporated into DNA as ddTMP by the T7 DNA polymerase, resulting in chain termination. We have identified the pathway by which exogenous ddT is converted to ddTTP. The pathway consists of ddT transport by host nucleoside permeases and phosphorylation to ddTMP by the host thymidine kinase. T7 gene 1.7 protein phosphorylates ddTMP and ddTDP, resulting in ddTTP. A 74-residue peptide of the gene 1.7 protein confers ddT sensitivity to the same extent as the 196-residue wild-type gene 1.7 protein. We also show that cleavage of thymidine to thymine and deoxyribose-1-phosphate by the host thymidine phosphorylase greatly increases the sensitivity of phage T7 to ddT. Finally, a mutation in T7 DNA polymerase that leads to discrimination against the incorporation of ddTMP eliminates ddT sensitivity. PMID:24858186

IL-7 Receptor Mutations and Steroid Resistance in Pediatric T cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia: A Genome Sequencing Study

PubMed Central

Stubbs, Andrew P.; Vroegindeweij, Eric M.; Smits, Willem K.; van Marion, Ronald; Dinjens, Winand N. M.; Horstmann, Martin; Kuiper, Roland P.; Zaman, Guido J. R.; van der Spek, Peter J.; Pieters, Rob; Meijerink, Jules P. P.

2016-01-01

Background Pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is the most common childhood cancer and the leading cause of cancer-related mortality in children. T cell ALL (T-ALL) represents about 15% of pediatric ALL cases and is considered a high-risk disease. T-ALL is often associated with resistance to treatment, including steroids, which are currently the cornerstone for treating ALL; moreover, initial steroid response strongly predicts survival and cure. However, the cellular mechanisms underlying steroid resistance in T-ALL patients are poorly understood. In this study, we combined various genomic datasets in order to identify candidate genetic mechanisms underlying steroid resistance in children undergoing T-ALL treatment. Methods and Findings We performed whole genome sequencing on paired pre-treatment (diagnostic) and post-treatment (remission) samples from 13 patients, and targeted exome sequencing of pre-treatment samples from 69 additional T-ALL patients. We then integrated mutation data with copy number data for 151 mutated genes, and this integrated dataset was tested for associations of mutations with clinical outcomes and in vitro drug response. Our analysis revealed that mutations in JAK1 and KRAS, two genes encoding components of the interleukin 7 receptor (IL7R) signaling pathway, were associated with steroid resistance and poor outcome. We then sequenced JAK1, KRAS, and other genes in this pathway, including IL7R, JAK3, NF1, NRAS, and AKT, in these 69 T-ALL patients and a further 77 T-ALL patients. We identified mutations in 32% (47/146) of patients, the majority of whom had a specific T-ALL subtype (early thymic progenitor ALL or TLX). Based on the outcomes of these patients and their prednisolone responsiveness measured in vitro, we then confirmed that these mutations were associated with both steroid resistance and poor outcome. To explore how these mutations in IL7R signaling pathway genes cause steroid resistance and subsequent poor outcome, we

Comparison of 7T and 3T MRI in patients with moyamoya disease.

PubMed

Oh, Byeong Ho; Moon, Hyeong Cheol; Baek, Hyeon Man; Lee, Youn Joo; Kim, Sang Woo; Jeon, Young Jai; Lee, Gun Seok; Kim, Hong Rae; Choi, Jai Ho; Min, Kyung Soo; Lee, Mou Seop; Kim, Young Gyu; Kim, Dong Ho; Kim, Won Seop; Park, Young Seok

2017-04-01

Magnetic resonance imaging and magnetic resonance angiography (MRI/MRA) are widely used for evaluating the moyamoya disease (MMD). This study compared the diagnostic accuracy of 7Tesla (T) and 3T MRI/MRA in MMD. In this case control study, 12 patients [median age: 34years; range (10-66years)] with MMD and 12 healthy controls [median age: 25years; range (22-59years)] underwent both 7T and 3T MRI/MRA. To evaluate the accuracy of MRI/MRA in MMD, five criteria were compared between imaging systems of 7T and 3T: Suzuki grading system, internal carotid artery (ICA) diameter, ivy sign, flow void of the basal ganglia on T2-weighted images, and high signal intensity areas of the basal ganglia on time-of-flight (TOF) source images. No difference was observed between 7T and 3T MRI/MRA in Suzuki stage, ICA diameter, and ivy sign score; while, 7T MRI/MRA showed a higher detection rate in the flow void on T2-weighted images and TOF source images (p<0.001). Receiver operating characteristic curves of both T2 and TOF criteria showed that 7T MRI/MRA had higher sensitivity and specificity than 3T MRI/MRA. Our findings indicate that 7T MRI/MRA is superior to 3T MRI/MRA for the diagnosis of MMD in point of detecting the flow void in basal ganglia by T2-weighted and TOF images. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier Inc.

T7-RNA Polymerase

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1997-01-01

T7-RNA Polymerase grown on STS-81. Structure-Function Relationships of RNA Polymerase: DNA-dependent RNA polymerase is the key enzyme responsible for the biosynthesis of RNA, a process known as transcription. Principal Investigator's include Dr. Dan Carter, Dr. B.C. Wang, and Dr. John Rose of New Century Pharmaceuticals.

Detailing magnetic field strength dependence and segmental artifact distribution of myocardial effective transverse relaxation rate at 1.5, 3.0, and 7.0 T.

PubMed

Meloni, Antonella; Hezel, Fabian; Positano, Vincenzo; Keilberg, Petra; Pepe, Alessia; Lombardi, Massimo; Niendorf, Thoralf

2014-06-01

Realizing the challenges and opportunities of effective transverse relaxation rate (R2 *) mapping at high and ultrahigh fields, this work examines magnetic field strength (B0 ) dependence and segmental artifact distribution of myocardial R2 * at 1.5, 3.0, and 7.0 T. Healthy subjects were considered. Three short-axis views of the left ventricle were examined. R2 * was calculated for 16 standard myocardial segments. Global and mid-septum R2 * were determined. For each segment, an artifactual factor was estimated as the deviation of segmental from global R2 * value. The global artifactual factor was significantly enlarged at 7.0 T versus 1.5 T (P = 0.010) but not versus 3.0 T. At 7.0 T, the most severe susceptibility artifacts were detected in the inferior lateral wall. The mid-septum showed minor artifactual factors at 7.0 T, similar to those at 1.5 and 3.0 T. Mean R2 * increased linearly with the field strength, with larger changes for global heart R2 * values. At 7.0 T, segmental heart R2 * analysis is challenging due to macroscopic susceptibility artifacts induced by the heart-lung interface and the posterior vein. Myocardial R2 * depends linearly on the magnetic field strength. The increased R2 * sensitivity at 7.0 T might offer means for susceptibility-weighted and oxygenation level-dependent MR imaging of the myocardium. Copyright © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Identification of direct target genes of miR-7, miR-9, miR-96, and miR-182 in the human breast cancer cell lines MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231.

PubMed

Moazzeni, Hamidreza; Najafi, Ali; Khani, Marzieh

2017-08-01

Some microRNAs have carcinogenic or tumor suppressive effects in breast cancer, which is the most common cancer in women worldwide. MiR-7 and miR-9 are tumor suppressor microRNAs, which induce apoptosis and inhibit proliferation in breast cancer cells. Moreover, miR-96 and miR-182 are onco-microRNAs that increase proliferation, migration, and tumorigenesis in breast cancer cells. This study aimed to identify the direct target genes of these four microRNAs in the human breast cancer cell lines MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231. Initially, bioinformatics tools were used to identify the target genes that have binding sites for miR-7, MiR-9, MiR-96, and miR-182 and are also associated with breast cancer. Subsequently, the findings of the bioinformatics analysis relating to the effects of these four microRNAs on the 3'-UTR activity of the potential target genes were confirmed using the dual luciferase assay in MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells co-transfected with the vectors containing 3'-UTR segments of the target genes downstream of a luciferase coding gene and each of the microRNAs. Finally, the effects of microRNAs on the endogenous expression of potential target genes were assessed by the overexpression of each of the four microRNAs in MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells. Respectively, three, three, three, and seven genes were found to have binding sites for miR-7, miR-9, miR-96, and miR-182 and were associated with breast cancer. The results of empirical studies including dual luciferase assays and real-time PCR confirmed that miR-7 regulates the expression of BRCA1 and LASP1; MiR-9 regulates the expression of AR; miR-96 regulates the expression of ABCA1; and miR-182 regulates the expression of NBN, TOX3, and LASP1. Taken together, our results suggest that the tumor suppressive effects of miR-7 may be mediated partly by regulating the expression of BRCA1 as a tumor suppressor gene in breast cancer. In addition, this microRNA and miR-182 may have effects on the nodal-positivity and tumor

7T: Physics, safety, and potential clinical applications.

PubMed

Kraff, Oliver; Quick, Harald H

2017-12-01

With more than 60 installed magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) systems worldwide operating at a magnetic field strength of 7T or higher, ultrahigh-field (UHF) MRI has been established as a platform for clinically oriented research in recent years. Profound technical and methodological developments have helped overcome the inherent physical challenges of UHF radiofrequency (RF) signal homogenization in the human body. The ongoing development of dedicated RF coil arrays was pivotal in realizing UHF body MRI, beyond mere brain imaging applications. Another precondition to clinical application of 7T MRI is the safety testing of implants and the establishment of safety concepts. Against this backdrop, 7T MRI and MR spectroscopy (MRS) recently have demonstrated capabilities and potentials for clinical diagnostics in a variety of studies. This article provides an overview of the immanent physical challenges of 7T UHF MRI and discusses recent technical solutions and safety concepts. Furthermore, recent clinically oriented studies are highlighted that span a broad application spectrum from 7T UHF brain to body MRI. 4 Technical Efficacy: Stage 1 J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2017;46:1573-1589. © 2017 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.

A T3 and T7 Recombinant Phage Acquires Efficient Adsorption and a Broader Host Range

PubMed Central

Lin, Tiao-Yin; Lo, Yi-Haw; Tseng, Pin-Wei; Chang, Shun-Fu; Lin, Yann-Tsyr; Chen, Ton-Seng

2012-01-01

It is usually thought that bacteriophage T7 is female specific, while phage T3 can propagate on male and female Escherichia coli. We found that the growth patterns of phages T7M and T3 do not match the above characteristics, instead showing strain dependent male exclusion. Furthermore, a T3/7 hybrid phage exhibits a broader host range relative to that of T3, T7, as well as T7M, and is able to overcome the male exclusion. The T7M sequence closely resembles that of T3. T3/7 is essentially T3 based, but a DNA fragment containing part of the tail fiber gene 17 is replaced by the T7 sequence. T3 displays inferior adsorption to strains tested herein compared to T7. The T3 and T7 recombinant phage carries altered tail fibers and acquires better adsorption efficiency than T3. How phages T3 and T7 recombine was previously unclear. This study is the first to show that recombination can occur accurately within only 8 base-pair homology, where four-way junction structures are identified. Genomic recombination models based on endonuclease I cleavages at equivalent and nonequivalent sites followed by strand annealing are proposed. Retention of pseudo-palindromes can increase recombination frequency for reviving under stress. PMID:22347414

A T3 and T7 recombinant phage acquires efficient adsorption and a broader host range.

PubMed

Lin, Tiao-Yin; Lo, Yi-Haw; Tseng, Pin-Wei; Chang, Shun-Fu; Lin, Yann-Tsyr; Chen, Ton-Seng

2012-01-01

It is usually thought that bacteriophage T7 is female specific, while phage T3 can propagate on male and female Escherichia coli. We found that the growth patterns of phages T7M and T3 do not match the above characteristics, instead showing strain dependent male exclusion. Furthermore, a T3/7 hybrid phage exhibits a broader host range relative to that of T3, T7, as well as T7M, and is able to overcome the male exclusion. The T7M sequence closely resembles that of T3. T3/7 is essentially T3 based, but a DNA fragment containing part of the tail fiber gene 17 is replaced by the T7 sequence. T3 displays inferior adsorption to strains tested herein compared to T7. The T3 and T7 recombinant phage carries altered tail fibers and acquires better adsorption efficiency than T3. How phages T3 and T7 recombine was previously unclear. This study is the first to show that recombination can occur accurately within only 8 base-pair homology, where four-way junction structures are identified. Genomic recombination models based on endonuclease I cleavages at equivalent and nonequivalent sites followed by strand annealing are proposed. Retention of pseudo-palindromes can increase recombination frequency for reviving under stress.

Etude aerodynamique d'un jet turbulent impactant une paroi concave

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

LeBlanc, Benoit

Etant donne la demande croissante de temperatures elevees dans des chambres de combustion de systemes de propulsions en aerospatiale (turbomoteurs, moteur a reaction, etc.), l'interet dans le refroidissement par jets impactant s'est vu croitre. Le refroidissement des aubes de turbine permet une augmentation de temperature de combustion, ce qui se traduit en une augmentation de l'efficacite de combustion et donc une meilleure economie de carburant. Le transfert de chaleur dans les au bages est influence par les aspects aerodynamiques du refroidissement a jet, particulierement dans le cas d'ecoulements turbulents. Un manque de comprehension de l'aerodynamique a l'interieur de ces espaces confinees peut mener a des changements de transfert thermique qui sont inattendus, ce qui augmente le risque de fluage. Il est donc d'interet pour l'industrie aerospatiale et l'academie de poursuivre la recherche dans l'aerodynamique des jets turbulents impactant les parois courbes. Les jets impactant les surfaces courbes ont deja fait l'objet de nombreuses etudes. Par contre des conditions oscillatoires observees en laboratoire se sont averees difficiles a reproduire en numerique, puisque les structures d'ecoulements impactants des parois concaves sont fortement dependantes de la turbulence et des effets instationnaires. Une etude experimentale fut realisee a l'institut PPRIME a l'Universite de Poitiers afin d'observer le phenomene d'oscillation dans le jet. Une serie d'essais ont verifie les conditions d'ecoulement laminaires et turbulentes, toutefois le cout des essais experimentaux a seulement permis d'avoir un apercu du phenomene global. Une deuxieme serie d'essais fut realisee numeriquement a l'Universite de Moncton avec l'outil OpenFOAM pour des conditions d'ecoulement laminaire et bidimensionnel. Cette etude a donc comme but de poursuivre l'enquete de l'aerodynamique oscillatoire des jets impactant des parois courbes, mais pour un regime d'ecoulement transitoire, turbulent

Key clinical benefits of neuroimaging at 7T.

PubMed

Trattnig, Siegfried; Springer, Elisabeth; Bogner, Wolfgang; Hangel, Gilbert; Strasser, Bernhard; Dymerska, Barbara; Cardoso, Pedro Lima; Robinson, Simon Daniel

2018-03-01

The growing interest in ultra-high field MRI, with more than 35.000 MR examinations already performed at 7T, is related to improved clinical results with regard to morphological as well as functional and metabolic capabilities. Since the signal-to-noise ratio increases with the field strength of the MR scanner, the most evident application at 7T is to gain higher spatial resolution in the brain compared to 3T. Of specific clinical interest for neuro applications is the cerebral cortex at 7T, for the detection of changes in cortical structure, like the visualization of cortical microinfarcts and cortical plaques in Multiple Sclerosis. In imaging of the hippocampus, even subfields of the internal hippocampal anatomy and pathology may be visualized with excellent spatial resolution. Using Susceptibility Weighted Imaging, the plaque-vessel relationship and iron accumulations in Multiple Sclerosis can be visualized, which may provide a prognostic factor of disease. Vascular imaging is a highly promising field for 7T which is dealt with in a separate dedicated article in this special issue. The static and dynamic blood oxygenation level-dependent contrast also increases with the field strength, which significantly improves the accuracy of pre-surgical evaluation of vital brain areas before tumor removal. Improvement in acquisition and hardware technology have also resulted in an increasing number of MR spectroscopic imaging studies in patients at 7T. More recent parallel imaging and short-TR acquisition approaches have overcome the limitations of scan time and spatial resolution, thereby allowing imaging matrix sizes of up to 128×128. The benefits of these acquisition approaches for investigation of brain tumors and Multiple Sclerosis have been shown recently. Together, these possibilities demonstrate the feasibility and advantages of conducting routine diagnostic imaging and clinical research at 7T. Copyright © 2016 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights

Evaluation of 39 medical implants at 7.0 T

PubMed Central

Feng, David X; McCauley, Joseph P; Morgan–Curtis, Fea K; Salam, Redoan A; Pennell, David R; Loveless, Mary E

2015-01-01

Objective: With increased signal to noise ratios, 7.0-T MRI has the potential to contribute unique information regarding anatomy and pathophysiology of a disease. However, concerns for the safety of subjects with metallic medical implants have hindered advancement in this field. The purpose of the present research was to evaluate the MRI safety for 39 commonly used medical implants at 7.0 T. Methods: Selected metallic implants were tested for magnetic field interactions, radiofrequency-induced heating and artefacts using standardized testing techniques. Results: 5 of the 39 implants tested may be unsafe for subjects undergoing MRI at 7.0 T. Conclusion: Implants were deemed either “MR Conditional” or “MR Unsafe” for the 7.0-T MRI environment. Further research is needed to expand the existing database categorizing implants that are acceptable for patients referred for MRI examinations at 7.0 T. Advances in knowledge: Lack of MRI testing for common metallic medical implants limits the translational potential of 7.0-T MRI. For safety reasons, patients with metallic implants are not allowed to undergo a 7.0-T MRI scan, precluding part of the population that can benefit from the detailed resolution of ultra-high-field MRIs. This investigation provides necessary MRI testing of common medical implants at 7.0 T. PMID:26481696

The robustness of T2 value as a trabecular structural index at multiple spatial resolutions of 7 Tesla MRI.

PubMed

Lee, D K; Song, Y K; Park, B W; Cho, H P; Yeom, J S; Cho, G; Cho, H

2018-04-15

To evaluate the robustness of MR transverse relaxation times of trabecular bone from spin-echo and gradient-echo acquisitions at multiple spatial resolutions of 7 T. The effects of MRI resolutions to T 2 and T2* of trabecular bone were numerically evaluated by Monte Carlo simulations. T 2 , T2*, and trabecular structural indices from multislice multi-echo and UTE acquisitions were measured in defatted human distal femoral condyles on a 7 T scanner. Reference structural indices were extracted from high-resolution microcomputed tomography images. For bovine knee trabecular samples with intact bone marrow, T 2 and T2* were measured by degrading spatial resolutions on a 7 T system. In the defatted trabecular experiment, both T 2 and T2* values showed strong ( |r| > 0.80) correlations with trabecular spacing and number, at a high spatial resolution of 125 µm 3 . The correlations for MR image-segmentation-derived structural indices were significantly degraded ( |r| < 0.50) at spatial resolutions of 250 and 500 µm 3 . The correlations for T2* rapidly dropped ( |r| < 0.50) at a spatial resolution of 500 µm 3 , whereas those for T 2 remained consistently high ( |r| > 0.85). In the bovine trabecular experiments with intact marrow, low-resolution (approximately 1 mm 3 , 2 minutes) T 2 values did not shorten ( |r| > 0.95 with respect to approximately 0.4 mm 3 , 11 minutes) and maintained consistent correlations ( |r| > 0.70) with respect to trabecular spacing (turbo spin echo, 22.5 minutes). T 2 measurements of trabeculae at 7 T are robust with degrading spatial resolution and may be preferable in assessing trabecular spacing index with reduced scan time, when high-resolution 3D micro-MRI is difficult to obtain. © 2018 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.

Séroprévalence et facteurs associés à l’acceptation du Conseil et Dépistage Volontaire du VIH chez l’enfant à Lubumbashi, République Démocratique du Congo

PubMed Central

Ngwej, Dieudonné Tshikwej; Mukuku, Olivier; Malonga, Françoise Kaj; Luboya, Oscar Numbi; Kakoma, Jean-Baptiste Sakatolo; Wembonyama, Stanis Okitotsho

2017-01-01

Résumé Introduction Malgré le dépistage du VIH proposé lors de la naissance ou au cours des consultations préscolaires, la proportion des enfants qui croissent ou décèdent sous statut sérologique au VIH inconnu est importante en République Démocratique du Congo (RDC). L’objectif de cette étude était de déterminer la séroprévalence au cours d’un dépistage volontaire et d’identifier les facteurs associés à l’acceptation du conseil et dépistage du VIH (CDV) en dehors de la maladie ou de toute exposition au VIH dans une population pédiatrique à Lubumbashi, RDC. Méthodes Il s’agissait d’une étude prospective transversale à visée analytique menée du 1er août 2006 au 31 septembre 2007. Elle avait été réalisée dans 4 centres communautaires de CDV répartis dans 4 zones de santé de la ville de Lubumbashi en RDC (Lubumbashi, Ruashi, Kampemba et de Kenya). L’étude avait consisté à faire le dépistage volontaire du VIH chez les enfants de moins de 15 ans. Les caractéristiques sociodémographiques et les paramètres relatifs au conseil et dépistage volontaire ont été étudiés. Les analyses statistiques descriptives usuelles et une régression logistique ont été réalisées. Résultats Sur 463 enfants dépistés du VIH, 41 (8,9%; IC 95%: 6,5%-11,9%) ont été testés positifs. L’acceptation du conseil et dépistage volontaire du VIH en dehors de la maladie ou de l’exposition au VIH était significativement plus élevée lorsque l’enfant était âgé de plus de 2 ans (Odds ratio ajusté (ORa) = 3,6 [IC 95%: 1,1-12,2]), lorsque le statut sérologique du VIH des parents était négatif ou inconnu (ORa = 27,4 [IC 95%: 9,4-80,0]), lorsque l’un ou l’autre ou les deux parents biologiques étaient en vie (ORa = 24,9 [IC 95%: 2,4-250,8]) et lorsque la connaissance du lieu de dépistage était fait par des moyens autres que le professionnel de santé (ORa = 2,9 [IC 95%: 1,0-7,9]). Conclusion Notre étude montre une forte

Fusion of Huntingtin interacting protein 1 to platelet-derived growth factor beta receptor (PDGFbetaR) in chronic myelomonocytic leukemia with t(5;7)(q33;q11.2).

PubMed

Ross, T S; Bernard, O A; Berger, R; Gilliland, D G

1998-06-15

We report the fusion of the Huntingtin interactin protein 1 (HIP1) gene to the platelet-derived growth factor betareceptor (PDGFbetaR) gene in a patient with chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML) with a t(5;7)(q33;q11.2) translocation. Southern blot analysis of patient bone marrow cells with a PDGFbetaR gene probe demonstrated rearrangement of the PDGFbetaR gene. Anchored polymerase chain reaction using PDGFbetaR primers identified a chimeric transcript containing the HIP1 gene located at 7q11.2 fused to the PDGFbetaR gene on 5q33. HIP1 is a 116-kD protein recently cloned by yeast two-hybrid screening for proteins that interact with Huntingtin, the mutated protein in Huntington's disease. The consequence of t(5;7)(q33;q11.2) is an HIP1/PDGFbetaR fusion gene that encodes amino acids 1 to 950 of HIP1 joined in-frame to the transmembrane and tyrosine kinase domains of the PDGFbetaR. The reciprocal PDGFbetaR/HIP1 transcript is not expressed. HIP1/PDGFbetaR is a 180-kD protein when expressed in the murine hematopoietic cell line, Ba/F3, and is constitutively tyrosine phosphorylated. Furthermore, HIP1/PDGFbetaR transforms the Ba/F3 cells to interleukin-3-independent growth. These data are consistent with an alternative mechanism for activation of PDGFbetaR tyrosine kinase activity by fusion with HIP1, leading to transformation of hematopoietic cells, and may implicate Huntingtin or HIP1 in the pathogenesis of hematopoietic malignancies.

Portage vaginal du streptocoque du groupe B chez la femme enceinte au niveau de la région de Marrakech

PubMed Central

Bassir, Ahlam; Dhibou, Hanane; Farah, Majdi; Mohamed, Lharmis; Amal, Addebous; Nabila, Souraa; Abderahim, Aboulfalah; Asmouki, Hamid; Soummani, Abderraouf

2016-01-01

Introduction Le streptocoque du groupe B est le principal agent impliqué dans les infections materno-fœtales, les septicémies et les méningites du nouveau-né à terme. L'objectif est de déterminer le taux de portage maternel du streptocoque du groupe B (SGB) à terme. Méthodes Un prélèvement vaginal a été réalisé de manière prospective chez 275 parturientes lors de l'entrée en salle d'accouchement sur une période de 06 mois. Résultats Le taux de portage était de 20,2%. Le portage était variable en fonction de l’âge gestationnel, il constitue 57.5% entre 37 et 38 semaines d'aménorrhée. Aucun des facteurs de risque n'a était statistiquement prédictif du portage maternel du SGB. Conclusion Le dépistage doit être réalisé à partir de 37 semaines d'aménorrhée, et comme le portage est intermittent, un prélèvement négatif ne garantirait pas que le portage soit négatif à l'accouchement. PMID:27222693

7 CFR 29.3052 - Red color (R).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Red color (R). 29.3052 Section 29.3052 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE (Standards, Inspections, Marketing... Red color (R). A brownish red. [24 FR 8771, Oct. 29, 1959. Redesignated at 47 FR 51722, Nov. 17, 1982...

7 CFR 29.3052 - Red color (R).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Red color (R). 29.3052 Section 29.3052 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE (Standards, Inspections, Marketing... Red color (R). A brownish red. [24 FR 8771, Oct. 29, 1959. Redesignated at 47 FR 51722, Nov. 17, 1982...

7 CFR 29.3052 - Red color (R).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Red color (R). 29.3052 Section 29.3052 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE (Standards, Inspections, Marketing... Red color (R). A brownish red. [24 FR 8771, Oct. 29, 1959. Redesignated at 47 FR 51722, Nov. 17, 1982...

7 CFR 29.3052 - Red color (R).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Red color (R). 29.3052 Section 29.3052 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE (Standards, Inspections, Marketing... Red color (R). A brownish red. [24 FR 8771, Oct. 29, 1959. Redesignated at 47 FR 51722, Nov. 17, 1982...

7 CFR 29.3052 - Red color (R).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Red color (R). 29.3052 Section 29.3052 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE (Standards, Inspections, Marketing... Red color (R). A brownish red. [24 FR 8771, Oct. 29, 1959. Redesignated at 47 FR 51722, Nov. 17, 1982...

Statistical power comparisons at 3T and 7T with a GO / NOGO task.

PubMed

Torrisi, Salvatore; Chen, Gang; Glen, Daniel; Bandettini, Peter A; Baker, Chris I; Reynolds, Richard; Yen-Ting Liu, Jeffrey; Leshin, Joseph; Balderston, Nicholas; Grillon, Christian; Ernst, Monique

2018-07-15

The field of cognitive neuroscience is weighing evidence about whether to move from standard field strength to ultra-high field (UHF). The present study contributes to the evidence by comparing a cognitive neuroscience paradigm at 3 Tesla (3T) and 7 Tesla (7T). The goal was to test and demonstrate the practical effects of field strength on a standard GO/NOGO task using accessible preprocessing and analysis tools. Two independent matched healthy samples (N = 31 each) were analyzed at 3T and 7T. Results show gains at 7T in statistical strength, the detection of smaller effects and group-level power. With an increased availability of UHF scanners, these gains may be exploited by cognitive neuroscientists and other neuroimaging researchers to develop more efficient or comprehensive experimental designs and, given the same sample size, achieve greater statistical power at 7T. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Etude de la qualité bactériologique de l’eau utilisée dans l’industrie agroalimentaire dans le Nord du Maroc

PubMed Central

Haijoubi, El Houcine; Benyahya, Fatiha; Bendahou, Abdrezzak; Essadqui, Faima Zahra; Behhari, Mohammed El; El Mamoune, Ahmed Fouad; Ghailani, Naima Nourouti; Mechita, Mohcine Bennani; Barakat, Amina

2017-01-01

Introduction L'eau est utilisée d'une façon primordiale dans tout le processus de la fabrication des produits alimentaires. Les industries agroalimentaires du Nord du Maroc utilisent différentes sources d'eaux mais l'eau de réseau public et l'eau de puits sont les principales sources d'eau utilisée. Cette eau peut s'avérer la source principale des éventuelles contaminations et altérations des aliments. Notre but est d'évaluer la qualité bactériologique de l'eau utilisée par les industries agroalimentaires dans la région du Nord du Maroc, d'identifier les différents germes responsables de la pollution de ces eaux et de définir les principales causes de cette pollution. Méthodes Des échantillons d'eau prélevés aux robinets ou des puits ont été analysés pour la recherche des germes indicateurs de la pollution (coliformes totaux (CT), coliformes fécaux (CF), entérocoques intestinaux (E), microorganismes revivifiables (MOR), anaérobies sulfitoréducteurs) et les germes pathogènes (Salmonelles, Staphylocoques, Pseudomonas aeruginosa). Le dénombrement des bactéries a été fait par la technique de filtration et par incorporation en milieu solide en surfusion. Résultats Les résultats ont montré que les eaux du réseau public ont été de qualité bactériologique satisfaisante tandis que 40% des eaux des puits ont été non conformes aux normes à cause de la présence des indicateurs de pollution CT, CF, E et MOR. En revanche, les germes pathogènes, en particulier les Salmonelles, ont été absents dans les eaux de tous les puits analysés. Conclusion La pollution de ces puits a été généralement liée au non-respect des conditions de puisage hygiéniques. La qualité bactériologique des eaux de ces puits peut être améliorée par une protection adéquate. PMID:28450992

Translocation by T7 RNA polymerase: a sensitively poised Brownian ratchet.

PubMed

Guo, Qing; Sousa, Rui

2006-04-21

Studies of halted T7 RNA polymerase (T7RNAP) elongation complexes (ECs) or of T7RNAP transcription against roadblocks due to DNA-bound proteins indicate that T7RNAP translocates via a passive Brownian ratchet mechanism. Crystal structures of T7RNAP ECs suggest that translocation involves an active power-stroke. However, neither solution studies of halted or slowed T7RNAP ECs, nor crystal structures of static complexes, are necessarily relevant to how T7RNAP translocates during rapid elongation. A recent single molecule study of actively elongating T7RNAPs provides support for the Brownian ratchet mechanism. Here, we obtain additional evidence for the existence of a Brownian ratchet during active T7RNAP elongation by showing that both rapidly elongating and halted complexes are equally sensitive to pyrophosphate. Using chemical nucleases tethered to the polymerase we achieve sub-ångström resolution in measuring the average position of halted T7RNAP ECs and find that the positional equilibrium of the EC is sensitively poised between pre-translocated and post-translocated states. This may be important in maximizing the sensitivity of the polymerase to sequences that cause pausing or termination. We also confirm that a crystallographically observed disorder to order transition in a loop formed by residues 589-612 also occurs in solution and is coupled to pyrophosphate or NTP release. This transition allows the loop to make interactions with the DNA that help stabilize the laterally mobile, ligand-free EC against dissociation.

Dynamic Blue Light-Inducible T7 RNA Polymerases (Opto-T7RNAPs) for Precise Spatiotemporal Gene Expression Control.

PubMed

Baumschlager, Armin; Aoki, Stephanie K; Khammash, Mustafa

2017-11-17

Light has emerged as a control input for biological systems due to its precise spatiotemporal resolution. The limited toolset for light control in bacteria motivated us to develop a light-inducible transcription system that is independent from cellular regulation through the use of an orthogonal RNA polymerase. Here, we present our engineered blue light-responsive T7 RNA polymerases (Opto-T7RNAPs) that show properties such as low leakiness of gene expression in the dark state, high expression strength when induced with blue light, and an inducible range of more than 300-fold. Following optimization of the system to reduce expression variability, we created a variant that returns to the inactive dark state within minutes once the blue light is turned off. This allows for precise dynamic control of gene expression, which is a key aspect for most applications using optogenetic regulation. The regulators, which only require blue light from ordinary light-emitting diodes for induction, were developed and tested in the bacterium Escherichia coli, which is a crucial cell factory for biotechnology due to its fast and inexpensive cultivation and well understood physiology and genetics. Opto-T7RNAP, with minor alterations, should be extendable to other bacterial species as well as eukaryotes such as mammalian cells and yeast in which the T7 RNA polymerase and the light-inducible Vivid regulator have been shown to be functional. We anticipate that our approach will expand the applicability of using light as an inducer for gene expression independent from cellular regulation and allow for a more reliable dynamic control of synthetic and natural gene networks.

Study of the Tributyl Phosphate--30 Percent Dodecane Solvent; ETUDE DU SOLVANT PHOSPHATE TRIBUTYLIQUE 30 PERCENT--DODECANE (in French)

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

Leroy, P.

1967-07-01

This study, originating mainly from a literature survey, gives the principal chemical and physical features of the tributyl-phosphate (TBP) agent diluted at 30 volumes per cent in dodecane. The mixture is a very commonly used extractant in nuclear fuel processing. In this paper, the main following points are reported: -) the components (TBP and diluents) -) the TBP-diluents systems (non-loaded), -) the TBP-diluents-water systems, -) TBP-diluents-water-nitric acid systems, and -) industrial solvents. (author) [French] Cette etude, d'origine bibliographique, regroupe les caracteristiques physico-chimiques essentielles du phosphate tributylique (TBP) dilue a 30% en volume dans du dodecane. Ce melange constitue un agentmore » d'extraction tres utilise dans le traitement des combustibles nucleaires. Les principaux points traites sont les suivants: -) les constituants (TBP et diluants), -) les systemes TBP-diluants non charges, -) les systemes TBP-diluants-eau, -) les systemes TBP-diluants-eau-acide nitrique, et -) les solvants industriels. (auteur)« less

Etude des aspects cliniques, échographiques et nutritionnels du syndrome des ovaires micropolykystiques (SOMPK) à Mbuji-Mayi, RD du Congo

PubMed Central

Kalenda, Louis Mbuyamba Ntobo; Mikenji, Justin Biayi; Nkoy, Albert Mwembo-Tambwe; Kayamba, Prosper Kalenga Muenze

2014-01-01

Introduction Le Syndrome des Ovaires Micropolykystiques (SOMPK) est polymorphe. L'objectif de cette étude était de déterminer la prévalence et rechercher les facteurs nutritionnels éventuellement associés. Méthodes Chez 300 patientes atteintes de SOMPK faisant l'objet de cette étude, les données anamnestiques, cliniques et échographiques, et les habitudes alimentaires ont été analysées. Les statistiques usuelles et les mesures d'association ont été utilisées pour analyser les résultats. Résultats La prévalence de SOMPK était de 23,6%. L’âge moyen des patientes avec SOMPK était 24 ± 7 ans et chez celles sans SOMPK 36 ± 7 ans (P < 0,05). Le risque de développer le SOMPK en présence d'un niveau de vie élevé était de 2,03 (RR = 2,03; IC à 95%: 1,73-2,38; P = 0,00). Le risque de développer le SOMPK en exerçant une activité légère est de 2,15 (RR = 2,15; IC à 95%: 1,87-2,87; P= 0,00). La proportion des patientes avec SOMPK ayant accumulé plus de 2400 kcal était de 59% vs 36% (P < 0,05) et le risque de développer le SOMPK lorsque l’énergie accumulée était supérieure à 2400 kcal était de 1,57 (RR = 1,57; IC à 95%: 1,33-1,85; P= 0,00). Conclusion Dans notre milieu la prévalence de SOMPK était de 23,6%. Les facteurs associés au SOMPK étaient l’âge, l’énergie accumulée de plus de 2400 Kcal, le niveau socio-économique élevé et l'activité physique légère. Des études analytiques plus poussées sont nécessaires, pour évaluer la force du risque que représentent ces différents facteurs étudiés. PMID:25870722

46 CFR 35.40-7 - Carbon dioxide alarm-T/ALL.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 46 Shipping 1 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Carbon dioxide alarm-T/ALL. 35.40-7 Section 35.40-7... Requirements-TB/ALL. § 35.40-7 Carbon dioxide alarm—T/ALL. Adjacent to all carbon dioxide fire extinguishing... AT ONCE. CARBON DIOXIDE BEING RELEASED.” ...

Hémophilie: état des lieux dans un service de pédiatrie dans la région de l'oriental du Maroc

PubMed Central

Benajiba, Noufissa; Boussaadni, Yousra EL; Aljabri, Mohammed; Bentata, Yassamine; Amrani, Rim; Rkain, Maria

2014-01-01

Pour les pays en voie de développement, l'hémophilie continue d’être une maladie de conséquence médicale et sociale désastreuse. Le but de ce travail est d'analyser le suivi d'une cohorte de patients hémophiles. Patients et méthodes: étude prospective étalée sur deux années et menée au centre référent d'hémophilie dans la région de l'orient du Maroc. Ont été inclus tous les patients présentant une hémophilie confirmée et âgé de moins de 18 ans. Résultats: sur 16 hémophiles, Quinze patients présentait une hémophilie A, l’âge moyen des patients était de 6,18 ans, la forme sévère, représentait 20,7%, la forme modérée: 33,3% et la forme mineure: 40%. Les circonstances de découverte étaient post circoncisionnelle chez 53,3% des patients, 20,7% post traumatique, 20% à l’âge de la marche; la durée d’évolution variait entre 2 mois et 10 ans. L'hémarthrose a été décrite au niveau des genoux, coudes et chevilles, avec une moyenne allant de 2 à 5 fois par an; l'arthropathie a été remarquée dans 33,3%. Le bilan immunologique a révélé des facteurs circulant inhibant chez deux patients. Le traitement était à base d'antalgiques, de plasma frais congelé. L'administration de facteurs VIII recombinés a été instaurée chez 40,6% des patients (plus de 90% des formes modérées et graves), grâce au programme national de prise en charge des hémophiles. Le décès était noté dans un seul cas lié à une hémorragie cérébrale. Conclusion: Nous insistons sur l'intérêt du programme national de prise en charge des hémophiles dernièrement instauré qui pourrait améliorer les conditions de vie de ces enfants. PMID:25404986

Expression of fusion IL2-B7.1(IgV+C) and effects on T lymphocytes.

PubMed

Kong, Linghong; Li, Yaochen; Yang, Ye; Li, Kangsheng

2007-12-01

The search for an effective immunotherapeutic treatment for tumors is an important area of cancer research. To prepare a more effective form of the bifunctional fusion protein IL2-B7.1(IgV+C) and analyze its effect on the stimulation of T lymphocyte proliferation, we used DNAStar 5.03 software to predict the structural diversity and biochemical character of IL2-B7.1(IgV+C). We then prepared fusion protein IL2-B7.1(IgV+C) by establishing its prokaryotic expression system, and tested its effect on the stimulation of T lymphocytes in vitro. The results indicated that IL2-B7.1(IgV+C) correctly formed a secondary structure in which both IL2 and B7.1(IgV+C) maintained their original hydrophilicity and epitopes. Western blot analysis revealed that IL2-B7.1(IgV+C) was efficiently expressed. Our analysis of CTLL-2 and T-cell proliferation showed that recombinant human (rh) IL2-B7.1(IgV+C) exerted the combined stimulating effects of both rhIL2 and rh B7.1(IgV+C) on cell proliferation, and that these effects could be blocked by adding either anti-IL2 or anti-B7.1 monoclonal antibodies. A >2-fold increase in [3H]TdR incorporation compared with that of cells treated with recombinant protein IL2, or B7.1(IgV+C) alone, revealed that rhIL2-B7.1(IgV+C) had dose-dependent synergetic effects on T-cell activation in the presence of anti-CD3 monoclonal antibody. We concluded that the augmented potency of rhIL2-B7.1(IgV+C) resulted in a stronger stimulation of T-cell proliferation than either rhB7.1(IgV+C) or rhIL2 alone.

Arabidopsis ARGONAUTE7 selects miR390 through multiple checkpoints during RISC assembly

PubMed Central

Endo, Yayoi; Iwakawa, Hiro-oki; Tomari, Yukihide

2013-01-01

Plant ARGONAUTE7 (AGO7) assembles RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC) specifically with miR390 and regulates the auxin-signalling pathway via production of TAS3 trans-acting siRNAs (tasiRNAs). However, how AGO7 discerns miR390 among other miRNAs remains unclear. Here, we show that the 5′ adenosine of miR390 and the central region of miR390/miR390* duplex are critical for the specific interaction with AGO7. Furthermore, despite the existence of mismatches in the seed and central regions of the duplex, cleavage of the miR390* strand is required for maturation of AGO7–RISC. These findings suggest that AGO7 uses multiple checkpoints to select miR390, thereby circumventing promiscuous tasiRNA production. PMID:23732541

Arabidopsis ARGONAUTE7 selects miR390 through multiple checkpoints during RISC assembly.

PubMed

Endo, Yayoi; Iwakawa, Hiro-oki; Tomari, Yukihide

2013-07-01

Plant ARGONAUTE7 (AGO7) assembles RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC) specifically with miR390 and regulates the auxin-signalling pathway via production of TAS3 trans-acting siRNAs (tasiRNAs). However, how AGO7 discerns miR390 among other miRNAs remains unclear. Here, we show that the 5' adenosine of miR390 and the central region of miR390/miR390* duplex are critical for the specific interaction with AGO7. Furthermore, despite the existence of mismatches in the seed and central regions of the duplex, cleavage of the miR390* strand is required for maturation of AGO7-RISC. These findings suggest that AGO7 uses multiple checkpoints to select miR390, thereby circumventing promiscuous tasiRNA production.

A validation of dynamic causal modelling for 7T fMRI.

PubMed

Tak, S; Noh, J; Cheong, C; Zeidman, P; Razi, A; Penny, W D; Friston, K J

2018-07-15

There is growing interest in ultra-high field magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in cognitive and clinical neuroscience studies. However, the benefits offered by higher field strength have not been evaluated in terms of effective connectivity and dynamic causal modelling (DCM). In this study, we address the validity of DCM for 7T functional MRI data at two levels. First, we evaluate the predictive validity of DCM estimates based upon 3T and 7T in terms of reproducibility. Second, we assess improvements in the efficiency of DCM estimates at 7T, in terms of the entropy of the posterior distribution over model parameters (i.e., information gain). Using empirical data recorded during fist-closing movements with 3T and 7T fMRI, we found a high reproducibility of average connectivity and condition-specific changes in connectivity - as quantified by the intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC = 0.862 and 0.936, respectively). Furthermore, we found that the posterior entropy of 7T parameter estimates was substantially less than that of 3T parameter estimates; suggesting the 7T data are more informative - and furnish more efficient estimates. In the framework of DCM, we treated field-dependent parameters for the BOLD signal model as free parameters, to accommodate fMRI data at 3T and 7T. In addition, we made the resting blood volume fraction a free parameter, because different brain regions can differ in their vascularization. In this paper, we showed DCM enables one to infer changes in effective connectivity from 7T data reliably and efficiently. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Diagnostic et prévalence du syndrome métabolique chez les diabétiques suivis dans un contexte de ressources limitées: cas du Burkina-Faso

PubMed Central

Marceline, Yaméogo Téné; Issiaka, Sombié; Gilberte, Kyélem Carole; Nadège, Rouamba; Macaire, Ouédraogo Sampawindé; Arsène, Yaméogo Aimé; Djingri, Lankoandé; Apollinaire, Sawadogo; Joseph, Drabo Youssouf

2014-01-01

Introduction Les conséquences du syndrome métabolique impliquent son diagnostic effectif pour une prise en charge globale des comorbidités dépistées. Objectif: Déterminer la capacité à diagnostiquer le syndrome métabolique en routine, sa prévalence chez les diabétiques, leurs connaissances et pratiques vis-à-vis du risque cardio-métabolique. Méthodes Il s'est agi d'une étude transversale auprès de 388 diabétiques au CHU de Bobo-Dioulasso. Les critères de la fédération internationale du diabète (2009) ont été utilisés. Résultats l’âge moyen était de 53,5±13,5 ans, le sex ratio de 0,7. L'obésité abdominale était présente dans 61,9% des cas; L'HTA l’était dans 56,4% des cas. La prescription du bilan lipidique a été documentée dans 55,4% des cas pour le HDL et 56,2% pour les triglycérides pour un taux de réalisation de 49,3% et 62,9%. Le taux de dépistage des critères lipidiques était de 26,8%. Un taux de HDL bas a été noté dans 46 cas (43,4%) et une hypertriglycéridémie dans 24 cas (17,6%). In fine, la prévalence du syndrome métabolique était de 48,9% (n = 190). Seuls 27,4% savaient que d'autres facteurs de risque cardiovasculaire pouvaient être associés au diabète et seulement 6,7% pratiquaient une activité physique régulière. Conclusion Malgré la faible contribution du laboratoire, le syndrome métabolique est fréquent parmi nos diabétiques. Les patients sont peu sensibilisés sur le risque vasculaire et la pratique d'une activité physique régulière reste faible. Un programme d’éducation adaptée contribuerait à un meilleur dépistage et à une prise en charge optimale des cas. PMID:25932077

Kinetics of the R + NO2 reactions (R = i-C3H7, n-C3H7, s-C4H9, and t-C4H9) in the temperature range 201-489 K.

PubMed

Rissanen, Matti P; Arppe, Suula L; Eskola, Arkke J; Tammi, Matti M; Timonen, Raimo S

2010-04-15

The bimolecular rate coefficients of four alkyl radical reactions with NO(2) have been measured in direct time-resolved experiments. Reactions were studied under pseudo-first-order conditions in a temperature-controlled tubular flow reactor coupled to a laser photolysis/photoionization mass spectrometer (LP-PIMS). The measured reaction rate coefficients are independent of helium bath gas pressure within the experimental ranges covered and exhibit negative temperature dependence. For i-C(3)H(7) + NO(2) and t-C(4)H(9) + NO(2) reactions, the dependence of ordinate (logarithm of reaction rate coefficients) on abscissa (1/T or log(T)) was nonlinear. The obtained results (in cm(3) s(-1)) can be expressed by the following equations: k(n-C(3)H(7) + NO(2)) = ((4.34 +/- 0.08) x 10(-11)) (T/300 K)(-0.14+/-0.08) (203-473 K, 1-7 Torr), k(i-C(3)H(7) + NO(2)) = ((3.66 +/- 2.54) x 10(-12)) exp(656 +/- 201 K/T)(T/300 K)(1.26+/-0.68) (220-489 K, 1-11 Torr), k(s-C(4)H(9) + NO(2)) = ((4.99 +/- 0.16) x 10(-11))(T/300 K)(-1.74+/-0.12) (241-485 K, 2 - 12 Torr) and k(t-C(4)H(9) + NO(2)) = ((8.64 +/- 4.61) x 10(-12)) exp(413 +/- 154 K/T)(T/300 K)(0.51+/-0.55) (201-480 K, 2-11 Torr), where the uncertainties shown refer only to the 1 standard deviations obtained from the fitting procedure. The estimated overall uncertainty in the determined bimolecular rate coefficients is about +/-20%.

46 CFR 35.40-7 - Carbon dioxide alarm-T/ALL.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 46 Shipping 1 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Carbon dioxide alarm-T/ALL. 35.40-7 Section 35.40-7 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY TANK VESSELS OPERATIONS Posting and Marking Requirements-TB/ALL. § 35.40-7 Carbon dioxide alarm—T/ALL. Adjacent to all carbon dioxide fire extinguishing...

Target-specific copper hybrid T7 phage particles.

PubMed

Dasa, Siva Sai Krishna; Jin, Qiaoling; Chen, Chin-Tu; Chen, Liaohai

2012-12-18

Target-specific nanoparticles have attracted significant attention recently, and have greatly impacted life and physical sciences as new agents for imaging, diagnosis, and therapy, as well as building blocks for the assembly of novel complex materials. While most of these particles are synthesized by chemical conjugation of an affinity reagent to polymer or inorganic nanoparticles, we are promoting the use of phage particles as a carrier to host organic or inorganic functional components, as well as to display the affinity reagent on the phage surface, taking advantage of the fact that some phages host well-established vectors for protein expression. An affinity reagent can be structured in a desired geometry on the surface of phage particles, and more importantly, the number of the affinity reagent molecules per phage particle can be precisely controlled. We previously have reported the use of the T7 phage capsid as a template for synthesizing target-specific metal nanoparticles. In this study herein, we reported the synthesis of nanoparticles using an intact T7 phage as a scaffold from which to extend 415 copies of a peptide that contains a hexahistidine (6His) motif for capture of copper ions and staging the conversion of copper ions to copper metal, and a cyclic Arginine-Glycine-Aspartic Acid (RGD4C) motif for targeting integrin and cancer cells. We demonstrated that the recombinant phage could load copper ions under low bulk copper concentrations without interfering with its target specificity. Further reduction of copper ions to copper metal rendered a very stable copper hybrid T7 phage, which prevents the detachment of copper from phage particles and maintains the phage structural integrity even under harsh conditions. Cancer cells (MCF-7) can selectively uptake copper hybrid T7 phage particles through ligand-mediated transmembrane transportation, whereas normal control cells (MCF-12F) uptake 1000-fold less. We further demonstrated that copper hybrid T7

MicroRNA-24 promotes 3T3-L1 adipocyte differentiation by directly targeting the MAPK7 signaling

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

Jin, Min, E-mail: min_jin@zju.edu.cn; Wu, Yutao; Wang, Jing

Over the past years, MicroRNAs (miRNAs) act as a vital role in harmony with gene regulation and maintaining cellular homeostasis. It is well testified that miRNAshave been involved in numerous physiological and pathological processes, including embryogenesis, cell fate decision, and cellular differentiation. Adipogenesis is an organized process of cellular differentiation by which pre-adipocytes differentiate towards mature adipocytes, and it is tightly modulated by a series of transcription factors such as peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPAR-γ) and sterol regulatory-element binding proteins 1 (SREBP1). However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the connection between miRNAs and adipogenesis-related transcription factors remain obscure. In this study,more » we unveiled that miR- 24 was remarkably upregulated during 3T3-L1 adipogenesis. Overexpression of miR-24 significantly promoted 3T3-L1 adipogenesis, as evidenced by its ability to increase the expression of PPAR-γ and SREBP1, lipid droplet formation and triglyceride (TG) accumulation. Furthermore, we found that neither ectopic expression of miR-24nor miR-24 inhibitor affect cell proliferation and cell cycle progression. Finally, we demonstrated that miR-24 plays the modulational role by directly repressing MAPK7, a key number in the MAPK signaling pathway. These data indicate that miR-24 is a novel positive regulator of adipocyte differentiation by targeting MAPK7, which provides new insights into the molecular mechanism of miRNA-mediated cellular differentiation. -- Highlights: •We firstly found miR-24 was upregulated in 3T3-L1 pre-adipocytes differentiation. •miR-24 promoted 3T3-L1 pre-adipocytes differentiation while silencing the expression of miR-24 had an opposite function. •miR-24 regulated 3T3-L1 differentiation by directly targeting MAPK7 signaling pathway. •miR-24did not affect 3T3-L1 pre-adipocytes cellular proliferation.« less

Functional Architecture of T7 RNA Polymerase Transcription Complexes

PubMed Central

Nayak, Dhananjaya; Guo, Qing; Sousa, Rui

2007-01-01

Summary T7 RNA polymerase is the best-characterized member of a widespread family of single-subunit RNA polymerases. Crystal structures of T7 RNA polymerase initiation and elongation complexes have provided a wealth of detailed information on RNA polymerase interactions with the promoter and transcription bubble, but the absence of DNA downstream of the melted region of the template in the initiation complex structure, and the absence of DNA upstream of the transcription bubble in the elongation complex structure means that our picture of the functional architecture of T7 RNA polymerase transcription complexes remains incomplete. Here we use the site-specifically tethered chemical nucleases and functional characterization of directed T7 RNAP mutants to both reveal the architecture of the duplex DNA that flanks the transcription bubble in the T7 RNAP initiation and elongation complexes, and to define the function of the interactions made by these duplex elements. We find that downstream duplex interactions made with a cluster of lysines (K711/K713/K714) are present during both elongation and initiation where they contribute to stabilizing a bend in the downstream DNA that is important for promoter opening. The upstream DNA in the elongation complex is also found to be sharply bent at the upstream edge of the transcription bubble, thereby allowing formation of upstream duplex:polymerase interactions that contribute to elongation complex stability. PMID:17580086

Place du traitement chirurgical sous circulation extracorporelle à cœur battant dans les cancers du rein avec envahissement cave supra-diaphragmatique: à propos de sept cas

PubMed Central

Lahyani, Mounir; Karmouni, Tarik; Elkhader, Khalid; Koutani, Abdellatif; Andaloussi, Ahmed Ibn Attya

2014-01-01

Ce travail vise à analyser les résultats de la néphrectomie avec thrombectomie atrio-cave sous circulation extracorporelle (CEC) chez sept patients ayant un cancer du rein avec envahissement cave supra-diaphragmatique et de discuter les indications opératoires. Sept patients, six hommes et une femme dont l’âge varie entre 46ans et 65ans, ont été opérés d'un cancer du rein avec extension atrio-cave. L’écho-doppler a toujours permis la mise en évidence de l'extension veineuse mais la limite supérieure du thrombus était formellement identifiée par l'examen tomodensitométrique quatre fois, et par la résonance magnétique nucléaire dans tous les cas. Tous les patients ont été opérés sous CEC à cœur battant en normothermie. Un seul décès postopératoire est survenu. La durée du séjour en réanimation a été de 4,5 jours. Cinq patients ont eu à distance une dissémination métastatique. Cinq malades ont eu une médiane de survie de 11,5 mois (de 7 à16). Un malade a subi une métastasectomie pulmonaire 6 mois après la néphrectomie. L'exérèse des thrombi atrio-caves a été facilitée par la CEC avec une mortalité et une morbidité postopératoires acceptables mais les résultats à distance ont été décevants. Cette intervention ne peut être proposée qu'aux patients n'ayant aucune extension locorégionale et générale décelable, ce qui souligne l'importance des examens morphologiques préopératoires. PMID:25995777

T2L2 on JASON-2: First Evaluation of the Flying Model

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-01-01

Para, J.-M. Torre R&D Metrology CNRS/GEMINI Observatoire de la Côte d’Azur Caussol, France E-mail: philippe.guillemot@cnes.fr Abstract...Laser Link” experiment T2L2 [1], under development at OCA (Observatoire de la Côte d’Azur) and CNES (Centre National d’Etudes Spatiales), France, will be...Experimental Astronomy, 7, 191-207. [2] P. Fridelance and C. Veillet, 1995, “Operation and data analysis in the LASSO experiment,” Metrologia

Cloning and expression of autogenes encoding RNA polymerases of T7-like bacteriophages

DOEpatents

Studier, F. William; Dubendorff, John W.

1998-01-01

This invention relates to the cloning and expression of autogenes encoding RNA polymerases of T7 and T7-like bacteriophages, in which the RNA polymerase gene is transcribed from a promoter which is recognized by the encoded RNA polymerase. Cloning of T7 autogenes was achieved by reducing the activity of the RNA polymerase sufficiently to permit host cell growth. T7 RNA polymerase activity was controlled by combining two independent methods: lac-repression of the recombinant lac operator-T7 promoter in the autogene and inhibition of the polymerase by T7 lysozyme. Expression systems for producing the RNA polymerases of T7 and other T7-like bacteriophages, and expression systems for producing selected gene products are described, as well as other related materials and methods.

Cloning and expression of autogenes encoding RNA polymerases of T7-like bacteriophages

DOEpatents

Studier, F.W.; Dubendorff, J.W.

1998-10-20

This invention relates to the cloning and expression of autogenes encoding RNA polymerases of T7 and T7-like bacteriophages, in which the RNA polymerase gene is transcribed from a promoter which is recognized by the encoded RNA polymerase. Cloning of T7 autogenes was achieved by reducing the activity of the RNA polymerase sufficiently to permit host cell growth. T7 RNA polymerase activity was controlled by combining two independent methods: lac-repression of the recombinant lac operator-T7 promoter in the autogene and inhibition of the polymerase by T7 lysozyme. Expression systems for producing the RNA polymerases of T7 and other T7-like bacteriophages, and expression systems for producing selected gene products are described, as well as other related materials and methods. 12 figs.

Cloning and expression of autogenes encoding RNA polymerases of T7-like bacteriophages

DOEpatents

Studier, F.W.; Dubendorff, J.W.

1998-11-03

This invention relates to the cloning and expression of autogenes encoding RNA polymerases of T7 and T7-like bacteriophages, in which the RNA polymerase gene is transcribed from a promoter which is recognized by the encoded RNA polymerase. Cloning of T7 autogenes was achieved by reducing the activity of the RNA polymerase sufficiently to permit host cell growth. T7 RNA polymerase activity was controlled by combining two independent methods: lac-repression of the recombinant lac operator-T7 promoter in the autogene and inhibition of the polymerase by T7 lysozyme. Expression systems for producing the RNA polymerases of T7 and other T7-like bacteriophages, and expression systems for producing selected gene products are described, as well as other related materials and methods. 12 figs.

MEG-guided analysis of 7T-MRI in patients with epilepsy.

PubMed

Colon, A J; Osch, M J P van; Buijs, M; Grond, J V D; Hillebrand, A; Schijns, O; Wagner, G J; Ossenblok, P; Hofman, P; Buchem, M A V; Boon, P

2018-05-26

To study possible detection of structural abnormalities on 7T MRI that were not detected on 3T MRI and estimate the added value of MEG-guidance. For abnormalities found, analysis of convergence between clinical, MEG and 7T MRI localization of suspected epileptogenic foci. In adult patients with well-documented localization-related epilepsy in whom a previous 3T MRI did not demonstrate an epileptogenic lesion but MEG indicated a plausible epileptogenic focus, 7T MRI was performed. Based on semiologic data, visual analysis of the 7T images was performed as well as based on prior MEG results. Correlation with other data from the patient charts, for as far as these were available, was analysed. To establish the level of concordance between the three observers the generalized or Fleiss kappa was calculated. In 3/19 patients abnormalities that, based on semiology, could plausibly represent an epileptogenic lesion were detected using 7T MRI. In an additional 3/19 an abnormality was detected after MEG-guidance. However, in these later cases there was no concordance among the three observers with regard to the presence of a structural abnormality. In one of these three cases intracranial recording was performed, proving the possible abnormality on 7T MRI to be the epileptogenic focus. In 32% of patients 7T MRI showed abnormalities that could indicate an epileptogenic lesion whereas previous 3T MRI did not, especially when visual inspection was guided by the presence of focal interictal MEG abnormalities. Copyright © 2018 British Epilepsy Association. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Gold in the layered structures of R 3Au 7Sn 3: From relativity to versatility

DOE PAGES

Provino, Alessia; Steinberg, Simon Alexander; Smetana, Volodymyr; ...

2016-07-11

A new isotypic series of ternary rare earth element-gold-tetrel intermetallic compounds has been synthesized and their structures and properties have been characterized. R 3Au 7Sn 3 (R = Y, La-Nd, Sm, Gd-Tm, Lu) crystallize with the hexagonal Gd 3Au 7Sn 3 prototype (Pearson symbol hP26; P6 3/m, a = 8.110-8.372 Å, c = 9.351-9.609 Å, V cell = 532.7-583.3 Å3, Z = 2), an ordered variant of the Cu 10Sn 3-type. Their structure is built up by GdPt 2Sn-type layers, which feature edge-sharing Sn@Au 6 trigonal antiprisms connected by trigonal R3 groups. Additional insertion of gold atoms leads to themore » formation of new homoatomic Au clusters, Au@Au 6; alternatively, the structure can be considered as a superstructural polyhedral packing of the ZrBeSi-type. The magnetization, heat ca-pacity and electrical resistivity have been measured for R 3Au 7Sn 3 (R = Ce, Pr, Nd and Tb). All four compounds order antiferromagnetically with the highest T N of 13 K for Tb 3Au 7Sn 3. In Ce 3Au 7Sn 3, which has a T N of 2.9 K, the heat capacity and electrical resistivity data in zero and applied fields indicate the presence of Kondo interactions. The coefficient of the linear term in the electronic heat capacity, γ, derived from the heat capacity data below 0.5 K is 211 mJ/Ce mol K 2 suggesting strong electronic correlations due to the Kondo interaction. The electronic structure calculations based on the projector augmented wave method for particular representatives of the series suggest different tendencies of the localized R-4f AOs to hybridize with the valence states. LMTO-based bonding analysis on the non-magnetic La 3Au 7Sn 3 indicates that the integrated crystal orbital Hamilton popu-lations (COHPs) are dominated by the heteroatomic Au–Sn contacts; however, contributions from La–Au and La–Sn separations are significant, both together exceeding 40 % in the overall bonding. Furthermore, homoatomic Au–Au interactions are evident for the Au@Au 6 units but, despite of the

Gold in the layered structures of R 3Au 7Sn 3: From relativity to versatility

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

Provino, Alessia; Steinberg, Simon Alexander; Smetana, Volodymyr

A new isotypic series of ternary rare earth element-gold-tetrel intermetallic compounds has been synthesized and their structures and properties have been characterized. R 3Au 7Sn 3 (R = Y, La-Nd, Sm, Gd-Tm, Lu) crystallize with the hexagonal Gd 3Au 7Sn 3 prototype (Pearson symbol hP26; P6 3/m, a = 8.110-8.372 Å, c = 9.351-9.609 Å, V cell = 532.7-583.3 Å3, Z = 2), an ordered variant of the Cu 10Sn 3-type. Their structure is built up by GdPt 2Sn-type layers, which feature edge-sharing Sn@Au 6 trigonal antiprisms connected by trigonal R3 groups. Additional insertion of gold atoms leads to themore » formation of new homoatomic Au clusters, Au@Au 6; alternatively, the structure can be considered as a superstructural polyhedral packing of the ZrBeSi-type. The magnetization, heat ca-pacity and electrical resistivity have been measured for R 3Au 7Sn 3 (R = Ce, Pr, Nd and Tb). All four compounds order antiferromagnetically with the highest T N of 13 K for Tb 3Au 7Sn 3. In Ce 3Au 7Sn 3, which has a T N of 2.9 K, the heat capacity and electrical resistivity data in zero and applied fields indicate the presence of Kondo interactions. The coefficient of the linear term in the electronic heat capacity, γ, derived from the heat capacity data below 0.5 K is 211 mJ/Ce mol K 2 suggesting strong electronic correlations due to the Kondo interaction. The electronic structure calculations based on the projector augmented wave method for particular representatives of the series suggest different tendencies of the localized R-4f AOs to hybridize with the valence states. LMTO-based bonding analysis on the non-magnetic La 3Au 7Sn 3 indicates that the integrated crystal orbital Hamilton popu-lations (COHPs) are dominated by the heteroatomic Au–Sn contacts; however, contributions from La–Au and La–Sn separations are significant, both together exceeding 40 % in the overall bonding. Furthermore, homoatomic Au–Au interactions are evident for the Au@Au 6 units but, despite of the

α7nAchR/NMDAR coupling affects NMDAR function and object recognition.

PubMed

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

2013-12-20

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

Magnetic resonance spectroscopy of the canine brain at 3.0 T and 7.0 T.

PubMed

Martin-Vaquero, Paula; da Costa, Ronaldo C; Echandi, Rita L; Sammet, Christina L; Knopp, Michael V; Sammet, Steffen

2012-08-01

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H MRS) to study the concentration of metabolites in the brain of dogs at 3.0 and 7.0 T. Four healthy male beagles were scanned using 3.0 T and 7.0 T human magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) units. The results obtained showed that all dogs had excellent quality spectra for a small (1 cm3) and large (8 cm3) voxel at 3.0 T, whereas only 2 dogs had high quality spectra at 7.0 T due to insufficient water suppression. 1H MRS at 3.0 T appears to be a reliable method to study metabolite concentrations in the canine brain. The development of more advanced water suppression techniques is necessary to improve the results at 7.0 T. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Engineering T7 bacteriophage as a potential DNA vaccine targeting delivery vector.

PubMed

Xu, Hai; Bao, Xi; Wang, Yiwei; Xu, Yue; Deng, Bihua; Lu, Yu; Hou, Jibo

2018-03-20

DNA delivery with bacteriophage by surface-displayed mammalian cell penetrating peptides has been reported. Although, various phages have been used to facilitate DNA transfer by surface displaying the protein transduction domain of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 Tat protein (Tat peptide), no similar study has been conducted using T7 phage. In this study, we engineeredT7 phage as a DNA targeting delivery vector to facilitate cellular internalization. We constructed recombinant T7 phages that displayed Tat peptide on their surface and carried eukaryotic expression box (EEB) as a part of their genomes (T7-EEB-Tat). We demonstrated that T7 phage harboring foreign gene insertion had packaged into infective progeny phage particles. Moreover, when mammalian cells that were briefly exposed to T7-EEB-Tat, expressed a significant higher level of the marker gene with the control cells infected with the wide type phage without displaying Tat peptides. These data suggested that the potential of T7 phage as an effective delivery vector for DNA vaccine transfer.

Structural reorganization of the interleukin-7 signaling complex

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

McElroy, Craig A.; Holland, Paul J.; Zhao, Peng

2012-06-29

We report here an unliganded receptor structure in the common gamma-chain ({gamma}{sub c}) family of receptors and cytokines. The crystal structure of the unliganded form of the interleukin-7 alpha receptor (IL-7R{alpha}) extracellular domain (ECD) at 2.15 {angstrom} resolution reveals a homodimer forming an 'X' geometry looking down onto the cell surface with the C termini of the two chains separated by 110 {angstrom} and the dimer interface comprising residues critical for IL-7 binding. Further biophysical studies indicate a weak association of the IL-7R{alpha} ECDs but a stronger association between the {gamma}{sub c}/IL-7R{alpha} ECDs, similar to previous studies of the full-lengthmore » receptors on CD4{sup +} T cells. Based on these and previous results, we propose a molecular mechanism detailing the progression from the inactive IL-7R{alpha} homodimer and IL-7R{alpha}-{gamma}{sub c} heterodimer to the active IL-7-IL-7R{alpha}-{gamma}{sub c} ternary complex whereby the two receptors undergo at least a 90{sup o} rotation away from the cell surface, moving the C termini of IL-7R{alpha} and {gamma}{sub c} from a distance of 110 {angstrom} to less than 30 {angstrom} at the cell surface. This molecular mechanism can be used to explain recently discovered IL-7- and {gamma}{sub c}-independent gain-of-function mutations in IL-7R{alpha} from B- and T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia patients. The mechanism may also be applicable to other {gamma}{sub c} receptors that form inactive homodimers and heterodimers independent of their cytokines.« less

Myristic Acid-Modified DA7R Peptide for Whole-Process Glioma-Targeted Drug Delivery.

PubMed

Ying, Man; Wang, Songli; Zhang, Mingfei; Wang, Ruifeng; Zhu, Hangchang; Ruan, Huitong; Ran, Danni; Chai, Zhilan; Wang, Xiaoyi; Lu, Weiyue

2018-06-13

The clinical treatment of aggressive glioma has been a great challenge, mainly because of the complexity of the glioma microenvironment and the existence of the blood-brain tumor barrier (BBTB)/blood-brain barrier (BBB), which severely hampers the effective accumulation of most therapeutic agents in the glioma region. Additionally, vasculogenic mimicry (VM), angiogenesis, and glioma stem cells (GSC) in malignant glioma also lead to the failure of clinical therapy. To address the aforementioned issues, a whole-process glioma-targeted drug delivery strategy was proposed. The D A7R peptide has effective BBTB-penetrating and notable glioma-, angiogenesis-, and VM-targeting abilities. Herein, we designed a myristic acid modified D A7R ligand (MC- D A7R), which combines tumor-homing D A7R with BBB-penetrable MC. MC- D A7R was then immobilized to PEGylated liposomes (MC- D A7R-LS) to form a whole-process glioma-targeting system. MC- D A7R-LS exhibited exceptional internalization in glioma, tumor neovascular, and brain capillary endothelial cells. Enhanced BBTB- and BBB-traversing efficiencies were also observed on MC- D A7R-LS. Ex vivo imaging on brain tumors also demonstrated the feasibility of MC- D A7R-LS in intracranial glioma-homing, whereas the immunofluorescence studies demonstrated its GSC and angiogenesis homing. Furthermore, doxorubicin-loaded MC- D A7R-LS accomplished a remarkable therapeutic outcome, as a result of a synergistic improvement on the glioma microenvironment. Our study highlights the potential of the MC-modified D A7R peptide as a great candidate for the whole-process glioma-targeted drug delivery.

Feasibility of imaging superficial palmar arch using micro-ultrasound, 7T and 3T magnetic resonance imaging.

PubMed

Pruzan, Alison N; Kaufman, Audrey E; Calcagno, Claudia; Zhou, Yu; Fayad, Zahi A; Mani, Venkatesh

2017-02-28

To demonstrate feasibility of vessel wall imaging of the superficial palmar arch using high frequency micro-ultrasound, 7T and 3T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Four subjects (ages 22-50 years) were scanned on a micro-ultrasound system with a 45-MHz transducer (Vevo 2100, VisualSonics). Subjects' hands were then imaged on a 3T clinical MR scanner (Siemens Biograph MMR) using an 8-channel special purpose phased array carotid coil. Lastly, subjects' hands were imaged on a 7T clinical MR scanner (Siemens Magnetom 7T Whole Body Scanner) using a custom built 8-channel transmit receive carotid coil. All three imaging modalities were subjectively analyzed for image quality and visualization of the vessel wall. Results of this very preliminary study indicated that vessel wall imaging of the superficial palmar arch was feasible with a whole body 7T and 3T MRI in comparison with micro-ultrasound. Subjective analysis of image quality (1-5 scale, 1: poorest, 5: best) from B mode, ultrasound, 3T SPACE MRI and 7T SPACE MRI indicated that the image quality obtained at 7T was superior to both 3T MRI and micro-ultrasound. The 3D SPACE sequence at both 7T and 3T MRI with isotropic voxels allowed for multi-planar reformatting of images and allowed for less operator dependent results as compared to high frequency micro-ultrasound imaging. Although quantitative analysis revealed that there was no significant difference between the three methods, the 7T Tesla trended to have better visibility of the vessel and its wall. Imaging of smaller arteries at the 7T is feasible for evaluating atherosclerosis burden and may be of clinical relevance in multiple diseases.

CoRoT-7b: SUPER-EARTH OR SUPER-Io?

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

Barnes, Rory; Kaib, Nathan A.; Raymond, Sean N.

2010-02-01

CoRoT-7b, a planet about 70% larger than the Earth orbiting a Sun-like star, is the first-discovered rocky exoplanet, and hence has been dubbed a 'super-Earth'. Some initial studies suggested that since the planet is so close to its host star, it receives enough insolation to partially melt its surface. However, these past studies failed to take into consideration the role that tides may play in this system. Even if the planet's eccentricity has always been zero, we show that tidal decay of the semimajor axis could have been large enough that the planet formed on a wider orbit which receivedmore » less insolation. Moreover, CoRoT-7b could be tidally heated at a rate that dominates its geophysics and drives extreme volcanism. In this case, CoRoT-7b is a 'super-Io' that, like Jupiter's volcanic moon, is dominated by volcanism and rapid resurfacing. Such heating could occur with an eccentricity of just 10{sup -5}. This small value could be driven by CoRoT-7c if its own eccentricity is larger than {approx}10{sup -4}. CoRoT-7b may be the first of a class of planetary super-Ios likely to be revealed by the CoRoT and Kepler spacecraft.« less

Gadolinium-based magnetic resonance contrast agents at 7 Tesla: in vitro T1 relaxivities in human blood plasma.

PubMed

Noebauer-Huhmann, Iris M; Szomolanyi, Pavol; Juras, Vladimír; Kraff, Oliver; Ladd, Mark E; Trattnig, Siegfried

2010-09-01

PURPOSE/INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study was to determine the T1 relaxivities (r1) of 8 gadolinium (Gd)-based MR contrast agents in human blood plasma at 7 Tesla, compared with 3 Tesla. Eight commercially available Gd-based MR contrast agents were diluted in human blood plasma to concentrations of 0, 0.25, 0.5, 1, and 2 mmol/L. In vitro measurements were performed at 37 degrees C, on a 7 Tesla and on a 3 Tesla whole-body magnetic resonance imaging scanner. For the determination of T1 relaxation times, Inversion Recovery Sequences with inversion times from 0 to 3500 ms were used. The relaxivities were calculated. The r1 relaxivities of all agents, diluted in human blood plasma at body temperature, were lower at 7 Tesla than at 3 Tesla. The values at 3 Tesla were comparable to those published earlier. Notably, in some agents, a minor negative correlation of r1 with a concentration of up to 2 mmol/L could be observed. This was most pronounced in the agents with the highest protein-binding capacity. At 7 Tesla, the in vitro r1 relaxivities of Gd-based contrast agents in human blood plasma are lower than those at 3 Tesla. This work may serve as a basis for the application of Gd-based MR contrast agents at 7 Tesla. Further studies are required to optimize the contrast agent dose in vivo.

Cloning and expression of the gene for bacteriophage T7 RNA polymerase

DOEpatents

Studier, F. William; Davanloo, Parichehre; Rosenberg, Alan H.; Moffatt, Barbara A.; Dunn, John J.

1990-01-01

This application describes a means to clone a functional gene for bacteriophage T7 RNA polymerase. Active T7 RNA polymerase is produced from the cloned gene, and a plasmid has been constructed that can produce the active enzyme in large amounts. T7 RNA polymerase transcribes DNA very efficiently and is highly selective for a relatively long promoter sequence. This enzyme is useful for synthesizing large amounts of RNA in vivo or in vitro, and is capable of producing a single RNA selectively from a complex mixture of DNAs. The procedure used to obtain a clone of the T7 RNA polymerase gene can be applied to other T7-like phages to obtain clones that produce RNA polymerases having different promoter specificities, different bacterial hosts, or other desirable properties. T7 RNA polymerase is also used in a system for selective, high-level synthesis of RNAs and proteins in suitable host cells.

RGS7/Gβ5/R7BP complex regulates synaptic plasticity and memory by modulating hippocampal GABABR-GIRK signaling

PubMed Central

Ostrovskaya, Olga; Xie, Keqiang; Masuho, Ikuo; Fajardo-Serrano, Ana; Lujan, Rafael; Wickman, Kevin; Martemyanov, Kirill A

2014-01-01

In the hippocampus, the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA shapes the activity of the output pyramidal neurons and plays important role in cognition. Most of its inhibitory effects are mediated by signaling from GABAB receptor to the G protein-gated Inwardly-rectifying K+ (GIRK) channels. Here, we show that RGS7, in cooperation with its binding partner R7BP, regulates GABABR-GIRK signaling in hippocampal pyramidal neurons. Deletion of RGS7 in mice dramatically sensitizes GIRK responses to GABAB receptor stimulation and markedly slows channel deactivation kinetics. Enhanced activity of this signaling pathway leads to decreased neuronal excitability and selective disruption of inhibitory forms of synaptic plasticity. As a result, mice lacking RGS7 exhibit deficits in learning and memory. We further report that RGS7 is selectively modulated by its membrane anchoring subunit R7BP, which sets the dynamic range of GIRK responses. Together, these results demonstrate a novel role of RGS7 in hippocampal synaptic plasticity and memory formation. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.02053.001 PMID:24755289

Diagnostic moléculaire du complexe Mycobacterium tuberculosis résistant à l'isoniazide et à la rifampicine au Burkina Faso

PubMed Central

Désire, Ilboudo; Cyrille, Bisseye; Florencia, Djigma; Souba, Diande; Albert, Yonli; Valerie, Bazie Jean Telesphore; Rebecca, Compaore; Charlemagne, Gnoula; Tamboura, Djibril; Rémy, Moret; Virginio, Pietra; Simplice, Karou Damintoti; Martial, Ouedraogo; Jacques, Simpore

2015-01-01

Introduction Cette étude a eu pour objectifs de diagnostiquer la tuberculose pulmonaire par l'examen microscopique et par la PCR des crachats et de déterminer les bases moléculaires de la résistance à la rifampicine et à l'isoniazide. Méthodes Le diagnostic du Complexe Mycobacterium Tuberculosis (CMTB) a été effectué par microscopie après coloration au Ziehl Nielsen et par PCR en temps réel en utilisant le kit d'identification du complexe MTB (Sacace Biotechnologie, Italie). Les résistances à la Rifampicine et à l'Isoniazide ont été étudiées par la technique de la PCR en utilisant le kit MTB résistance 8 (Sacace, Biotechnologie). Résultats Sur les 59 patients diagnostiqués pour la tuberculose pulmonaire, 59,3% étaient positifs en microscopie optique et 44,1% étaient positifs par PCR en Temps réel. Les résistances à la rifampicine (rpoB) et à l'isoniazide (katG et inhA) ont été observées chez 9 patients. La résistance à la rifampicine était due aux mutations (Asp516Val, Ser531Trp, Leu533Pro) et celle à l'isoniazide par les substitutions Ser315Thr du gène katG et C209T du gène inhA. Les multi résistances à la rifampicine et à l'isoniazide ont été observées dans 55,5% des échantillons et concernaient les associations: ropBAsp513Val + inhAC209T et rpoBLeu533Pro + katGSer315Thr. Conclusion La PCR en temps réel qui permet l'identification des allèles mutants rpoB, katG et inhA de M. tuberculosis est un outil de diagnostic épidémiologique de grande importance car elle permet de déterminer le niveau de résistance à la rifampicine et à l'isoniazide. PMID:26491516

miR-539-5p inhibits experimental choroidal neovascularization by targeting CXCR7.

PubMed

Feng, Yifan; Wang, Jing; Yuan, Yuanzhi; Zhang, Xi; Shen, Minqian; Yuan, Fei

2018-03-01

Stromal cell-derived factor-1 (SDF-1) has been previously confirmed to participate in the formation of choroidal neovascularization (CNV) via its receptor, CXC chemokine receptor (CXCR) 4; CXCR7 is a recently identified receptor for SDF-1. The molecular mechanisms and therapeutic value of CXCR7 in CNV remain undefined. In this study, experimental CNV was induced by laser photocoagulation in Brown-Norway pigmented rats, and aberrant CXCR7 overexpression was detected in the retinal pigment epithelial/choroid/sclera tissues of laser-injured eyes. Blockade of CXCR7 activation via CXCR7 knockdown or neutralizing Ab administration inhibited SDF-1-induced cell survival and the tubular formation of human retinal microvascular endothelial cells (HRMECs) in vitro and reduced CNV leakage and lesion size in vivo. By using microRNA array screening and bioinformatic analyses, we identified miR-539-5p as a regulator of CXCR7. Transfection of HRMECs and choroid-retinal endothelial (RF/6A) cells with the miR-539-5p mimic inhibited their survival and tube formation, whereas CXCR7 overexpression rescued the suppressive effect of miR-539-5p. The antiangiogenic activities of the miR-539-5p mimic were additionally demonstrated in vivo by intravitreal injection. ERK1/2 and AKT signaling downstream of CXCR7 is involved in the miR-539-5p regulation of endothelial cell behaviors. These findings suggest that the manipulation of miR-539-5p/CXCR7 levels may have important therapeutic implications in CNV-associated diseases.-Feng, Y., Wang, J., Yuan, Y., Zhang, X., Shen, M., Yuan, F. miR-539-5p inhibits experimental choroidal neovascularization by targeting CXCR7.

Sevoflurane represses the self-renewal ability by regulating miR-7a,7b/Klf4 signalling pathway in mouse embryonic stem cells.

PubMed

Wang, Qimin; Li, Guifeng; Li, Baolin; Chen, Qiu; Lv, Dongdong; Liu, Jiaying; Ma, Jieyu; Sun, Nai; Yang, Longqiu; Fei, Xuejie; Song, Qiong

2016-10-01

Sevoflurane is a frequently-used clinical inhalational anaesthetic and can cause toxicity to embryos during foetal development. Embryonic stem cells (ESCs) are derived from the inner cell mass of blastospheres and can be used as a useful model of early development. Here, we found that sevoflurane significantly influenced self-renewal ability of mESCs on stemness maintenance and cell proliferation. The cell cycle was arrested via G1 phase delay. We further found that sevoflurane upregulated expression of miR-7a,7b to repress self-renewal. Next we performed rescue experiments and found that after adding miR-7a,7b inhibitor into mESCs treated with sevoflurane, its influence on self-renewal could be blocked. Further we identified stemness factor Klf4 as the direct target of miR-7a,7b. Overexpression of Klf4 restored self-renewal ability repressed by miR-7a,7b or sevoflurane. In this work, we determined that sevoflurane repressed self-renewal ability by regulating the miR-7a,7b/Klf4 signalling pathway in mESCs. Our study demonstrated molecular mechanism underlying the side effects of sevoflurane during early development, laying the foundation for studies on safe usage of inhalational anaesthetic during non-obstetric surgery. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

T7 phage factor required for managing RpoS in Escherichia coli.

PubMed

Tabib-Salazar, Aline; Liu, Bing; Barker, Declan; Burchell, Lynn; Qimron, Udi; Matthews, Steve J; Wigneshweraraj, Sivaramesh

2018-06-05

T7 development in Escherichia coli requires the inhibition of the housekeeping form of the bacterial RNA polymerase (RNAP), Eσ 70 , by two T7 proteins: Gp2 and Gp5.7. Although the biological role of Gp2 is well understood, that of Gp5.7 remains to be fully deciphered. Here, we present results from functional and structural analyses to reveal that Gp5.7 primarily serves to inhibit Eσ S , the predominant form of the RNAP in the stationary phase of growth, which accumulates in exponentially growing E. coli as a consequence of the buildup of guanosine pentaphosphate [(p)ppGpp] during T7 development. We further demonstrate a requirement of Gp5.7 for T7 development in E. coli cells in the stationary phase of growth. Our finding represents a paradigm for how some lytic phages have evolved distinct mechanisms to inhibit the bacterial transcription machinery to facilitate phage development in bacteria in the exponential and stationary phases of growth.

Cultural Resources Survey, Harry S. Truman Dam and Reservoir Project, Missouri. Volume 7. Archeological Test Excavations: 1975

DTIC Science & Technology

1983-02-01

Cultural Resources Survey, Harry S. Truman Dam 3 1 ,1rd Reservoir Projert, Missouri, Volumes I - X 6 PERFORMING ORG. REPORT NUMBER N/A 7. AUrHOR(*)Curtis H...A05TNACr ( towfs.e du e 81 f nevee" Old fdfliffV bw block niatber) The ten volumes report the results of a cultural resources survey in the Harry S...and Surf icial Geology of the Harry S. Truman Reservoir Area, West Central Missouri, by R. A. Ward and T. L. Thompson, pp. 1-21 part II: Report on

Comparison of 3T and 7T susceptibility-weighted angiography of the substantia nigra in diagnosing Parkinson disease.

PubMed

Cosottini, M; Frosini, D; Pesaresi, I; Donatelli, G; Cecchi, P; Costagli, M; Biagi, L; Ceravolo, R; Bonuccelli, U; Tosetti, M

2015-03-01

Standard neuroimaging fails in defining the anatomy of the substantia nigra and has a marginal role in the diagnosis of Parkinson disease. Recently 7T MR target imaging of the substantia nigra has been useful in diagnosing Parkinson disease. We performed a comparative study to evaluate whether susceptibility-weighted angiography can diagnose Parkinson disease with a 3T scanner. Fourteen patients with Parkinson disease and 13 healthy subjects underwent MR imaging examination at 3T and 7T by using susceptibility-weighted angiography. Two expert blinded observers and 1 neuroradiology fellow evaluated the 3T and 7T images of the sample to identify substantia nigra abnormalities indicative of Parkinson disease. Diagnostic accuracy and intra- and interobserver agreement were calculated separately for 3T and 7T acquisitions. Susceptibility-weighted angiography 7T MR imaging can diagnose Parkinson disease with a mean sensitivity of 93%, specificity of 100%, and diagnostic accuracy of 96%. 3T MR imaging diagnosed Parkinson disease with a mean sensitivity of 79%, specificity of 94%, and diagnostic accuracy of 86%. Intraobserver and interobserver agreement was excellent at 7T. At 3T, intraobserver agreement was excellent for experts, and interobserver agreement ranged between good and excellent. The less expert reader obtained a diagnostic accuracy of 89% at 3T. Susceptibility-weighted angiography images obtained at 3T and 7T differentiate controls from patients with Parkinson disease with a higher diagnostic accuracy at 7T. The capability of 3T in diagnosing Parkinson disease might encourage its use in clinical practice. The use of the more accurate 7T should be supported by a dedicated cost-effectiveness study. © 2015 by American Journal of Neuroradiology.

46 CFR 39.20-7 - Tankship liquid overfill protection-T/ALL.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 46 Shipping 1 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Tankship liquid overfill protection-T/ALL. 39.20-7 Section 39.20-7 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY TANK VESSELS VAPOR CONTROL SYSTEMS Design and Equipment § 39.20-7 Tankship liquid overfill protection—T/ALL. (a) Each cargo tank of a...

46 CFR 39.20-7 - Tankship liquid overfill protection-T/ALL.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 46 Shipping 1 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Tankship liquid overfill protection-T/ALL. 39.20-7 Section 39.20-7 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY TANK VESSELS VAPOR CONTROL SYSTEMS Design and Equipment § 39.20-7 Tankship liquid overfill protection—T/ALL. (a) Each cargo tank of a...

46 CFR 39.20-7 - Tankship liquid overfill protection-T/ALL.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 46 Shipping 1 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Tankship liquid overfill protection-T/ALL. 39.20-7 Section 39.20-7 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY TANK VESSELS VAPOR CONTROL SYSTEMS Design and Equipment § 39.20-7 Tankship liquid overfill protection—T/ALL. (a) Each cargo tank of a...

miR-106a suppresses tumor cells death in colorectal cancer through targeting ATG7.

PubMed

Hao, Haibin; Xia, Guangfeng; Wang, Chao; Zhong, Fuping; Liu, Laipeng; Zhang, Dong

2017-06-01

Autophagy-related gene 7 (ATG7) and miR-106a play an important role in cancer cell autophagy and apoptosis, but the outcome of ATG7 and miR-106a in colorectal cancer (CRC) still remains not clear. In this study, we found that ATG7 and miR-106a expression were mutually related with cell death and prognosis in CRC patients. In addition, we also showed that ATG7 and miR-106a expression were changeable in colorectal cancer cell lines when compared with normal cell lines, but ATG7 and miR-106a mRNA level was negatively correlated. Furthermore, ATG7 protein and mRNA levels decreased after over-expression of miR-106a, whereas the suppression of ATG7 had the opposite effect. We confirmed that miR-106a down-regulated ATG7 mRNA level by binding the specific sequence of ATG7 mRNA 3'UTR region. Moreover, the over-expression of ATG7 induced CRC cells death both in vitro and in vivo. Taken together, our study data demonstrated that ATG7 aggravated the cell death of CRC, which was inhibited by miR-106a.

Cloning and expression of autogenes encoding RNA poly,erases of T7-like bacteriophages

DOEpatents

Studier, F. William; Dubendorff, John W.

1998-01-01

This invention relates to the cloning and expression of autogenes encoding RNA polymerases of T7 and T7-like bacteriophages, in which the RNA polymerase gene is transcribed from a promoter which is recognized by the encoded RNA polymerase. Cloning of T7 autogenes was achieved by reducing the activity of the RNA polymerase sufficiently to permit host cell growth. T7 RNA polymerase activity was controlled by combining two independent methods: lac-repression of the recombinant lac operator-T7 promoter in the autogene and inhibition of the polymerase by T7 lysozyme. Expression systems for producing the RNA polymerases of T7 and other T7-like bacteriophages, and expression systems for producing selected gene products are described, as well as other related materials and methods.

Cloning and expression of the gene for bacteriophage T7 RNA polymerase

DOEpatents

Studier, F.W.; Davanloo, P.; Rosenberg, A.H.

1984-03-30

This application describes a means to clone a functional gene for bacteriophage T7 RNA polymerase. Active T7 RNA polymerase is produced from the cloned gene, and a plasmid has been constructed that can produce the active enzyme in large amounts. T7 RNA polymerase transcribes DNA very efficiently and is highly selective for a relatively long promoter sequence. This enzyme is useful for synthesizing large amounts of RNA in vivo or in vitro, and is capable of producing a single RNA selectively from a complex mixture of DNAs. The procedure used to obtain a clone of the T7 RNA polymerase gene can be applied to other T7-like phages to obtain clones that produce RNA polymerases having different promoter specificities, different bacterial hosts, or other desirable properties.

N7-Methylguanine at position 46 (m7G46) in tRNA from Thermus thermophilus is required for cell viability at high temperatures through a tRNA modification network.

PubMed

Tomikawa, Chie; Yokogawa, Takashi; Kanai, Tamotsu; Hori, Hiroyuki

2010-01-01

N(7)-methylguanine at position 46 (m(7)G46) in tRNA is produced by tRNA (m(7)G46) methyltransferase (TrmB). To clarify the role of this modification, we made a trmB gene disruptant (DeltatrmB) of Thermus thermophilus, an extreme thermophilic eubacterium. The absence of TrmB activity in cell extract from the DeltatrmB strain and the lack of the m(7)G46 modification in tRNA(Phe) were confirmed by enzyme assay, nucleoside analysis and RNA sequencing. When the DeltatrmB strain was cultured at high temperatures, several modified nucleotides in tRNA were hypo-modified in addition to the lack of the m(7)G46 modification. Assays with tRNA modification enzymes revealed hypo-modifications of Gm18 and m(1)G37, suggesting that the m(7)G46 positively affects their formations. Although the lack of the m(7)G46 modification and the hypo-modifications do not affect the Phe charging activity of tRNA(Phe), they cause a decrease in melting temperature of class I tRNA and degradation of tRNA(Phe) and tRNA(Ile). (35)S-Met incorporation into proteins revealed that protein synthesis in DeltatrmB cells is depressed above 70 degrees C. At 80 degrees C, the DeltatrmB strain exhibits a severe growth defect. Thus, the m(7)G46 modification is required for cell viability at high temperatures via a tRNA modification network, in which the m(7)G46 modification supports introduction of other modifications.

Trinucleotide cassettes increase diversity of T7 phage-displayed peptide library.

PubMed

Krumpe, Lauren R H; Schumacher, Kathryn M; McMahon, James B; Makowski, Lee; Mori, Toshiyuki

2007-10-05

Amino acid sequence diversity is introduced into a phage-displayed peptide library by randomizing library oligonucleotide DNA. We recently evaluated the diversity of peptide libraries displayed on T7 lytic phage and M13 filamentous phage and showed that T7 phage can display a more diverse amino acid sequence repertoire due to differing processes of viral morphogenesis. In this study, we evaluated and compared the diversity of a 12-mer T7 phage-displayed peptide library randomized using codon-corrected trinucleotide cassettes with a T7 and an M13 12-mer phage-displayed peptide library constructed using the degenerate codon randomization method. We herein demonstrate that the combination of trinucleotide cassette amino acid codon randomization and T7 phage display construction methods resulted in a significant enhancement to the functional diversity of a 12-mer peptide library. This novel library exhibited superior amino acid uniformity and order-of-magnitude increases in amino acid sequence diversity as compared to degenerate codon randomized peptide libraries. Comparative analyses of the biophysical characteristics of the 12-mer peptide libraries revealed the trinucleotide cassette-randomized library to be a unique resource. The combination of T7 phage display and trinucleotide cassette randomization resulted in a novel resource for the potential isolation of binding peptides for new and previously studied molecular targets.

Revisiting the Acanthamoeba species that form star-shaped cysts (genotypes T7, T8, T9, and T17): characterization of seven new Brazilian environmental isolates and phylogenetic inferences.

PubMed

Magliano, Ana C M; Teixeira, Marta M G; Alfieri, Silvia C

2012-01-01

Free-living amoebae of the genus Acanthamoeba are the agents of both opportunistic and non-opportunistic infections and are frequently isolated from the environment. Of the 17 genotypes (T1-T17) identified thus far, 4 (T7, T8, T9, and T17) accommodate the rarely investigated species of morphological group I, those that form large, star-shaped cysts. We report the isolation and characterization of 7 new Brazilian environmental Acanthamoeba isolates, all assigned to group I. Phylogenetic analyses based on partial (~1200 bp) SSU rRNA gene sequences placed the new isolates in the robustly supported clade composed of the species of morphological group I. One of the Brazilian isolates is closely related to A. comandoni (genotype T9), while the other 6, together with 2 isolates recently assigned to genotype T17, form a homogeneous, well-supported group (2·0% sequence divergence) that likely represents a new Acanthamoeba species. Thermotolerance, osmotolerance, and cytophatic effects, features often associated with pathogenic potential, were also examined. The results indicated that all 7 Brazilian isolates grow at temperatures up to 40°C, and resist under hyperosmotic conditions. Additionally, media conditioned by each of the new Acanthamoeba isolates induced the disruption of SIRC and HeLa cell monolayers.

Etude theorique des fluctuations structurales dans les composes organiques a dimensionnalite reduite

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dumoulin, Benoit

Les systemes a dimensionnalite reduite constituent maintenant une branche entiere de la physique de la matiere condensee. Cette derniere s'est developpee rapidement au cours des dernieres annees, avec la decouverte des materiaux organiques qui presentent, justement, des proprietes physiques fortement anisotropes. Cette these presente une etude en trois parties de plusieurs composes organiques qui, bien que tres differents du point de vue de leurs compositions chimiques et de leurs proprietes physiques a haute temperature, subissent tous une instabilite structurale a tres basse temperature. De plus, dans chacun des cas, l'instabilite structurale est precedee d'un important regime fluctuatif a partir duquel les proprietes physiques changent de maniere significative. Notre etude suit un ordre chronologique inverse puisque nous nous attardons en premier lieu au cas de composes recemment decouverts: les composes de la famille des (BCPTTF)2X (X = PF6 , AsF6). Ces derniers sont des isolants magnetiques a la temperature ambiante et subissent une instabilite structurale de type spin-Peierls a une temperature appelee TSP. En particulier, nous nous interessons a l'etude des proprietes physiques de ces systemes dans le regime fluctuatif, qui precede cette instabilite. Notre etude theorique nous permet de comprendre en detail comment ces systemes s'approchent de l'instabilite struturale. Dans la seconde partie de cette these, nous etudions le regime fluctuatif (pre-transitionnel) observe experimentalement dans le compose de (TMTTF)2PF6. Ce compose organique, dont la structure s'apparente aux sels de Bechgaard, subit une instabilite de type spin-Peierls a une temperature T SP = 19K. Bien que ce compose possede la particularite d'etre un bon conducteur a la temperature ambiante, il subit une transition de type Mott-Hubbard a une temperature Trho ≈ 220K et devient alors un isolant magnetique, analogue aux composes de la famille des (BCPTTF)2X. Le regime fluctuatif precedant l

miR-Let7A Modulates Autophagy Induction in LPS-Activated Microglia

PubMed Central

Song, Juhyun; Oh, Yumi

2015-01-01

Microglia regulate the secretion of various immunomediators in central nervous system diseases. Microglial autophagy is the crucial process for cell's survival and cytokine productions. Recent studies have reported that several microRNAs are involved in the autophagy system. miR-Let7A is such a microRNA that plays a role in various inflammation responses, and is magnified as a key modulator particularly in the autophagy system. In present study, we investigated whether miR-Let7A is involved in autophagy in activating microglia. Overexpression of miR-Let7A in LPS-stimulated BV2 microglial cells promoted the induction of the autophagy related factors such as LC3II, Beclin1, and ATG3. Our results suggest a potential role of miR-Let7A in the autophagy process of microglia during CNS inflammation. PMID:26113790

7T MRI in focal epilepsy with unrevealing conventional field strength imaging.

PubMed

De Ciantis, Alessio; Barba, Carmen; Tassi, Laura; Cosottini, Mirco; Tosetti, Michela; Costagli, Mauro; Bramerio, Manuela; Bartolini, Emanuele; Biagi, Laura; Cossu, Massimo; Pelliccia, Veronica; Symms, Mark R; Guerrini, Renzo

2016-03-01

To assess the diagnostic yield of 7T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in detecting and characterizing structural lesions in patients with intractable focal epilepsy and unrevealing conventional (1.5 or 3T) MRI. We conducted an observational clinical imaging study on 21 patients (17 adults and 4 children) with intractable focal epilepsy, exhibiting clinical and electroencephalographic features consistent with a single seizure-onset zone (SOZ) and unrevealing conventional MRI. Patients were enrolled at two tertiary epilepsy surgery centers and imaged at 7T, including whole brain (three-dimensional [3D] T1 -weighted [T1W] fast-spoiled gradient echo (FSPGR), 3D susceptibility-weighted angiography [SWAN], 3D fluid-attenuated inversion recovery [FLAIR]) and targeted imaging (2D T2*-weighted dual-echo gradient-recalled echo [GRE] and 2D gray-white matter tissue border enhancement [TBE] fast spin echo inversion recovery [FSE-IR]). MRI studies at 1.5 or 3T deemed unrevealing at the referral center were reviewed by three experts in epilepsy imaging. Reviewers were provided information regarding the suspected localization of the SOZ. The same team subsequently reviewed 7T images. Agreement in imaging interpretation was reached through consensus-based discussions based on visual identification of structural abnormalities and their likely correlation with clinical and electrographic data. 7T MRI revealed structural lesions in 6 (29%) of 21 patients. The diagnostic gain in detection was obtained using GRE and FLAIR images. Four of the six patients with abnormal 7T underwent epilepsy surgery. Histopathology revealed focal cortical dysplasia (FCD) in all. In the remaining 15 patients (71%), 7T MRI remained unrevealing; 4 of the patients underwent epilepsy surgery and histopathologic evaluation revealed gliosis. 7T MRI improves detection of epileptogenic FCD that is not visible at conventional field strengths. A dedicated protocol including whole brain FLAIR and GRE images at 7T

Antisense miR-7 impairs insulin expression in developing pancreas and in cultured pancreatic buds.

PubMed

Nieto, Margarita; Hevia, Pedro; Garcia, Enrique; Klein, Dagmar; Alvarez-Cubela, Silvia; Bravo-Egana, Valia; Rosero, Samuel; Damaris Molano, R; Vargas, Nancy; Ricordi, Camillo; Pileggi, Antonello; Diez, Juan; Domínguez-Bendala, Juan; Pastori, Ricardo L

2012-01-01

MicroRNAs regulate gene expression by inhibiting translation or inducing target mRNA degradation. MicroRNAs regulate organ differentiation and embryonic development, including pancreatic specification and islet function. We showed previously that miR-7 is highly expressed in human pancreatic fetal and adult endocrine cells. Here we determined the expression profile of miR-7 in the mouse-developing pancreas by RT-PCR and in situ hybridization. MiR-7 expression was low between embryonic days e10.5 and e11.5, then began to increase at e13.5 through e14.5, and eventually decreased by e18. In situ hybridization and immunostaining analysis showed that miR-7 colocalizes with endocrine marker Isl1, suggesting that miR-7 is expressed preferentially in endocrine cells. Whole-mount in situ hybridization shows miR-7 highly expressed in the embryonic neural tube. To investigate the role of miR-7 in development of the mouse endocrine pancreas, antisense miR-7 morpholinos (MO) were delivered to the embryo at an early developmental stage (e10.5 days) via intrauterine fetal heart injection. Inhibition of miR-7 during early embryonic life results in an overall downregulation of insulin production, decreased β-cell numbers, and glucose intolerance in the postnatal period. This phenomenon is specific for miR-7 and possibly due to a systemic effect on pancreatic development. On the other hand, the in vitro inhibition of miR-7 in explanted pancreatic buds leads to β-cell death and generation of β-cells expressing less insulin than those in MO control. Therefore, in addition to the potential indirect effects on pancreatic differentiation derived from its systemic downregulation, the knockdown of miR-7 appears to have a β-cell-specific effect as well. These findings suggest that modulation of miR-7 expression could be utilized in the development of stem cell therapies to cure diabetes.

Comparative analysis of B7-1 and B7-2 costimulatory ligands: expression and function

PubMed Central

1994-01-01

Antigen-specific T cell activation requires the engagement of the T cell receptor (TCR) with antigen as well as the engagement of appropriate costimulatory molecules. The most extensively characterized pathway of costimulation has been that involving the interaction of CD28 and CTLA4 on the T cell with B7 (now termed B7-1) on antigen presenting cells. Recently, B7-2 a second costimulatory ligand for CTLA4, was described, demonstrating the potential complexity of costimulatory interactions. This report examines and compares the expression and function of B7-1 and B7-2. Overall these results indicate that (a) B7-1 and B7-2 can be expressed by multiple cell types, including B cells, T cells, macrophages, and dendritic cells, all of which are therefore candidate populations for delivering costimulatory signals mediated by these molecules; (b) stimulating B cells with either LPS or anti-IgD-dextran induced expression of both B7- 1 and B7-2, and peak expression of both costimulatory molecules occurred after 18-42 h of culture. Expression of B7-2 on these B cell populations was significantly higher than expression of B7-1 at all times assayed after stimulation; (c) blocking of B7-2 costimulatory activity inhibited TCR-dependent T cell proliferation and cytokine production, without affecting early consequences of TCR signaling such as induction of CD69 or interleukin 2 receptor alpha (IL-2R alpha); and (d) expression of B7-1 and of B7-2 can be regulated by a variety of stimuli. Moreover, expression of B7-1 and B7-2 can be independently regulated by the same stimulus, providing an additional complexity in the mechanisms available for regulating costimulation and hence immune response. PMID:7519245

Le surpoids, l’obésité et le contrôle glycémique chez les diabétiques du centre de référence provincial de diabète (CRD), Kénitra, Maroc

PubMed Central

Lotfi, Zeghari; Aboussaleh, Youssef; Sbaibi, Rachid; Achouri, Imane; Benguedour, Rachid

2017-01-01

Introduction Le diabète est définit comme un trouble de l'assimilation, de l'utilisation et du stockage des sucres apportés par l'alimentation, sa prise en charge est assurée par le suivi du surpoids et l'obésité et le contrôle glycémique régulier. L'objectif de ce travail était l'étude du surpoids, l'obésité et le contrôle glycémique chez 2227 diabétiques de différent type (type 1, 2 et gestationnel), consultants le centre de référence provincial de diabète (CRD), Kénitra-Maroc. Méthodes L'étude s'est déroulée sur une période d'une année du mois janvier au mois décembre 2015, L'évaluation du surpoids et l'obésité a été effectuée par le calcul de l'Indice de Masse Corporelle (IMC=Poids/Taille2 (Kg/m2)), elles sont définit respectivement par IMC > 25 Kg/m2, et IMC > 30 Kg/m2, le poids et la taille ont été mesurés selon les recommandations de l'organisation mondiale de santé (OMS), Le contrôle glycémique a été effectué par l'analyse sanguine de l'Hémoglobine glycosylée et de la Glycémie à jeun. Les normes sont 7% pour l'Hémoglobine glycosylée et 0,70g/l à 1,10g/l pour la Glycémie à jeun. Résultats L'intervalle d'âges des patients est compris entre 8 mois et 80 ans, avec une dominance des diabétiques provenant du milieu urbain (74%) par rapport à ceux provenant du milieu rural (26%). Le surpoids touche l'ensemble de cette population. L'IMC moyen des femmes tends vers l'obésité (IMC≈30): (29,21 Kg/m2 ± 3,1) pour le diabète gestationnel et (29,15 Kg/m2 ± 3,2) pour le diabète de type 2. Les valeurs du contrôle glycémique sont supérieures aux normes: avec 8,5% ± 2,6 > 7% pour l'hémoglobine glycosylée et 1,5 g/l ± 1,3 > 1,10g/l pour la Glycémie à jeun. La différence entre les valeurs de l'hémoglobine glycosylée entre les hommes (8,5 7% ± 2,6) et les femmes (8,1% ± 2,3) n'est pas significative (P > 0,05), même chose pour la Glycémie capillaire à jeun: pour les hommes (1,44 g/l ± 1,1) et les

Genomewide screens for Escherichia coli genes affecting growth of T7 bacteriophage

PubMed Central

Qimron, Udi; Marintcheva, Boriana; Tabor, Stanley; Richardson, Charles C.

2006-01-01

Use of bacteriophages as a therapy for bacterial infection has been attempted over the last century. Such an endeavor requires the elucidation of basic aspects of the host–virus interactions and the resistance mechanisms of the host. Two recently developed bacterial collections now enable a genomewide search of the genetic interactions between Escherichia coli and bacteriophages. We have screened >85% of the E. coli genes for their ability to inhibit growth of T7 phage and >90% of the host genes for their ability to be used by the virus. In addition to identifying all of the known interactions, several other interactions have been identified. E. coli CMP kinase is essential for T7 growth, whereas overexpression of the E. coli uridine/cytidine kinase inhibits T7 growth. Mutations in any one of nine genes that encode enzymes for the synthesis of the E. coli lipopolysaccharide receptor for T7 adsorption leads to T7 resistance. Selection of T7 phage that can recognize these altered receptors has enabled the construction of phage to which the host is 100-fold less resistant. PMID:17135349

Actes du colloque sur le bilinguisme, Universite de Neuchatel, 14/15 Septembre, 1981 (Proceedings of the Colloquium on Bilingualism, University of Neuchatel, September 14-15, 1981).

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

TRANEL, 1982

1982-01-01

This issue contains proceedings of a colloquium on linguistics at the University of Neuchatel: (1) "Propositions epistemologiques pour une etude du bilinguisme (Epistemological Propositions for a Study of Bilingualism)," by B. Py; (2) "Comment on di ca? Prolegomenes a une etude de la composante semantique du langage des migrants (How Do You Say…

Evaluation du niveau de connaissance des patients sur la gestion du traitement par les antis vitamines K dans le service de cardiologie de Ouagadougou

PubMed Central

Samadoulougou, André; Temoua Naibe, Dangwé; Mandi, Germain; Yameogo, Relwendé Aristide; Kabore, Elisé; Millogo, Georges; Yameogo, Nobila Valentin; Kologo, Jonas Koudougou; Thiam/Tall, Anna; Toguyeni, Boubacar Jean Yves; Zabsonre, Patrice

2014-01-01

Introduction Les antivitamines K (AVK), traitement anticoagulant oral le plus largement prescrit, posent un réel problème de santé publique du fait de leur risque iatrogène. L'objectif de cette étude était de préciser le niveau de connaissance des patients sur la gestion de leur traitement par les AVK. Méthodes Il s'est agi d'une enquête transversale descriptive réalisée au CHU-Yalgado Ouédraogo, sur une période de 03 mois : du 1er mars au 31 mai 2012. Un questionnaire a été administré aux patients bénéficiant d'un traitement AVK depuis au moins un mois. Résultats Soixante-dix patients ont été inclus dans l'étude dont 30 hommes. L'âge moyen était de 49 ans ± 16 ans. Les cardiopathies et la maladie thromboembolique veineuse justifiant l'institution du traitement AVK étaient retrouvées respectivement dans 58,6% et 41,4% des cas. Le nom de l'AVK et la raison exacte du traitement étaient connus respectivement dans 91,4% et 67,1% des cas. Plus de la moitié des patients (68,6%) savaient que les AVK rendaient le sang plus fluide. Quarante-six patients (65,7%) citaient l'INR comme examen biologique de surveillance du traitement et seulement 28 patients (40%) connaissaient les valeurs cibles. La majorité des patients ne connaissait pas les risques encourus en cas de surdosage (72,8%) et de sous-dosage (71,4%). Une automédication par anti-inflammatoire non stéroïdien était signalée par 18 patients (25,7%). Les choux (74,3%) et la laitue (62,9%), aliments à consommer avec modération, étaient les plus cités. Conclusion Les connaissances des patients sur la gestion des AVK étaient fragmentaires et insuffisantes pour assurer la sécurité et l'efficacité du traitement. La création d'un programme d'éducation thérapeutique sur les AVK s'avère alors nécessaire. PMID:25870741

Molecular and Cytological Comparisons of Chromosomes 7el₁, 7el₂, 7E(e), and 7E ⁱ Derived from Thinopyrum.

PubMed

Guo, Jun; He, Fang; Cai, Jin-Jin; Wang, Hong-Wei; Li, An-Fei; Wang, Hong-Gang; Kong, Ling-Rang

2015-01-01

Thinopyrum chromosomes 7el1, 7el2, 7E(e), and 7E(i), homoeologous to group 7 chromosomes of common wheat (Triticum aestivum), were determined to have many useful agronomical traits for wheat improvement. To analyze the genetic relationships among the 4 Thinopyrum 7E chromosomes, the conserved orthologous set markers, genomic in situ hybridization (GISH), and meiotic chromosome pairing were used in this study. The unweighted pair-group method with arithmetical averages (UPGMA) analysis indicated that 7el1, derived from T. ponticum, and 7E(i), derived from T. intermedium, were the most closely related. 7el2, derived from T. ponticum, was relatively distant from the 7el1-7E(i) complex. While 7E(e), derived from T. elongatum, was more distantly related to 7el1, 7el2, and 7E(i). This is the first report showing that 7el1 and 7E(i) may be similar, which could be explained by the similar chromosome signal distribution revealed by GISH as well as UPGMA analysis revealed by both molecular markers and the highest frequency of meiotic pairing. The newly developed genome-specific molecular markers may be useful for marker-assisted selection of Lr19, Bdv3, and Fhblop. © 2015 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Discordance gradient-surface dans le rétrécissement mitral: le gradient moyen transmitral est-il un critère de sévérité ou un indice de tolérance du rétrécissement mitral serré?

PubMed Central

Najih, Hayat; Arous, Salim; Laarje, Aziza; Baghdadi, Dalila; Benouna, Mohamed Ghali; Azzouzi, Leila; Habbal, Rachida

2016-01-01

Le rétrécissement mitral (RM) rhumatismal demeure une valvulopathie fréquente dans les pays en voie de développement. Cependant, les pays industrialisés ont vu l'émergence ces dernières années de nouvelles étiologies de RM; notamment l'origine médicamenteuse et/ou toxique responsable de valvulopathies restrictives aussi bien sténosantes que régurgitantes. Pour cette raison, l'évaluation échocardiographique du RM et surtout, la définition de critères objectifs pour conclure au caractère serré du RM reste toujours d'actualité. Les objectifs du travail sont: évaluer l'existence ou non d'une corrélation directe entre le gradient moyen transmitral (GMT) et la sévérité du RM chez les patients porteurs d'un RM serré ou très serré (critère primaire) et analyser les différents paramètres qui conditionnent le gradient moyen transmitral (GMT) (Critère secondaire). Il s'agit d'une étude transversale monocentrique incluant tous les patients admis au service de Cardiologie du CHU Ibn Rochd de Casablanca pour un RM serré ou très serré, sur une période d'une année (Janvier 2014 à Décembre 2014). Nous avons analysés séparément deux groupes de patients : ceux avec un gradient moyen transmitral<10 mmHg (groupe 1) et ceux avec un gradient>10mmHg (groupe2). 50 patients porteurs d'un RM serré ou très serré ont été inclus. L'âge moyen de nos patients est de 41,7 ans avec prédominance féminine (sex ratio: 0,25). 64% de nos patients avaient un RM serré et 36% avaient un RM très serré. 52% (26 patients) avaient un GMT <10mmHg et 48% (24 patients) avaient un gradient moyen >10mmHg, ce qui suggère l'absence de corrélation directe entre la sévérité du RM et le GMT (coefficient de Pearson R: -0,137). Pour la dyspnée, 80% des patients du groupe 1 étaient dyspnéiques stade II de la NYHA et 70% des patients du groupe 2 étaient dyspnéiques stade III (41%) ou IV (29%) de la NYHA, ce qui signifie l'existence d'une corr

The chimeric gene CHRFAM7A, a partial duplication of the CHRNA7 gene, is a dominant negative regulator of α7*nAChR function.

PubMed

Araud, Tanguy; Graw, Sharon; Berger, Ralph; Lee, Michael; Neveu, Estele; Bertrand, Daniel; Leonard, Sherry

2011-10-15

The human α7 neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptor gene (CHRNA7) is a candidate gene for schizophrenia and an important drug target for cognitive deficits in the disorder. Activation of the α7*nAChR, results in opening of the channel and entry of mono- and divalent cations, including Ca(2+), that presynaptically participates to neurotransmitter release and postsynaptically to down-stream changes in gene expression. Schizophrenic patients have low levels of α7*nAChR, as measured by binding of the ligand [(125)I]-α-bungarotoxin (I-BTX). The structure of the gene, CHRNA7, is complex. During evolution, CHRNA7 was partially duplicated as a chimeric gene (CHRFAM7A), which is expressed in the human brain and elsewhere in the body. The association between a 2bp deletion in CHRFAM7A and schizophrenia suggested that this duplicate gene might contribute to cognitive impairment. To examine the putative contribution of CHRFAM7A on receptor function, co-expression of α7 and the duplicate genes was carried out in cell lines and Xenopus oocytes. Expression of the duplicate alone yielded protein expression but no functional receptor and co-expression with α7 caused a significant reduction of the amplitude of the ACh-evoked currents. Reduced current amplitude was not correlated with a reduction of I-BTX binding, suggesting the presence of non-functional (ACh-silent) receptors. This hypothesis is supported by a larger increase of the ACh-evoked current by the allosteric modulator 1-(5-chloro-2,4-dimethoxy-phenyl)-3-(5-methyl-isoxazol-3-yl)-urea (PNU-120596) in cells expressing the duplicate than in the control. These results suggest that CHRFAM7A acts as a dominant negative modulator of CHRNA7 function and is critical for receptor regulation in humans. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The chimeric gene CHRFAM7A, a partial duplication of the CHRNA7 gene, is a dominant negative regulator of α7*nAChR function

PubMed Central

Araud, Tanguy; Graw, Sharon; Berger, Ralph; Lee, Michael; Neveu, Estelle; Bertrand, Daniel; Leonard, Sherry

2011-01-01

The human α7 neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptor gene (CHRNA7) is a candidate gene for schizophrenia and an important drug target for cognitive deficits in the disorder. Activation of the α7*nAChR, results in opening of the channel and entry of mono- and divalent cations, including Ca++, that presynaptically participates to neurotransmitter release and postsynaptically to down-stream changes in gene expression. Schizophrenic patients have low levels of α7*nAChR, as measured by binding of the ligand [125I]-α-bungarotoxin (I-BTX). The structure of the gene, CHRNA7, is complex. During evolution, CHRNA7 was partially duplicated as a chimeric gene (CHRFAM7A), which is expressed in the human brain and elsewhere in the body. The association between a 2bp deletion in CHRFAM7A and schizophrenia suggested that this duplicate gene might contribute to cognitive impairment. To examine the putative contribution of CHRFAM7A on receptor function, co-expression of α7 and the duplicate genes was carried out in cell lines and Xenopus oocytes. Expression of the duplicate alone yielded protein expression but no functional receptor and co-expression with α7 caused a significant reduction of the amplitude of the ACh-evoked currents. Reduced current amplitude was not correlated with a reduction of I-BTX binding, suggesting the presence of non-functional (ACh-silent) receptors. This hypothesis is supported by a larger increase of the ACh-evoked current by the allosteric modulator 1-(5-chloro-2,4-dimethoxy-phenyl)-3-(5-methyl-isoxazol-3-yl)-urea (PNU-120596) in cells expressing the duplicate than in the control. These results suggest that CHRFAM7A acts as a dominant negative modulator of CHRNA7 function and is critical for receptor regulation in humans. PMID:21718690

Etude hyperfrequence et ultrasonore des supraconducteurs organiques kappa-(ET)(2)X (X = copper(thiocyanogen), copper[N(CN)(2)]bromine)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Frikach, Kamal

2001-09-01

Dans ce travail je presente une etude de l'impedance de surface, ainsi que de l'attenuation et la variation de la vitesse ultrasonores dans les etats normal et supraconducteur sur les composes organiques k-(ET)2X (X = Cu(SCN) 2, Cu[N(CN)2]Br). A partir des mesures d'impedance de surface, les deux composantes sigma 1 et sigma2 de la conductivite complexe sont extraites en utilisant le modele de Drude. Ces mesures montrent que la symetrie du parametre d'ordre dans ces composes est differente de celle du cas BCS. Afin de comprendre le profil de sigma1 (T) nous avons etudie les fluctuations supraconductrices a partir de la paraconductivite sigma'( T). Cette etude est rendue possible grace a la structure quasi-2D des composes k-(ET)2X dans lesquelles les fluctuations supraconductrices sont fortes. Ces dernieres sont observees sur deux decades de temperatures dans le Cu(SCN)2. L'application du modele de Aslamazov-Larkin 2D et 3D montre la possibilite du passage du regime 2D a haute temperature au regime 3D au voisinage de Tc. En se basant sur ce resultat, nous avons calcule la paraconductivite en utilisant une approche a l'ordre d'une boucle a partir du modele de Lawrence-Doniach. En tenant compte de la correction par la self energie dans la limite dynamique (17 GHz), l'ajustement de la paraconductivite calculee est en bon accord avec les donnees experimentales. Le couplage interplan obtenu est compatible avec le caractere quasi-2D des composes organiques. Le temps de relaxation des quasi-particules dans l'etat supraconducteur est ensuite extrait pour la premiere fois dans ces composes dont le comportement en fonction de la temperature est compatible avec la presence des noeuds dans le gap. Dans l'etat normal, la variation de la vitesse ultrasonore presente un comportement anormal caracterise par un fort ramollissement a T = 38 K et 50 K dans k-(ET) 2Cu(SCN)2 et k-(ET)2Cu[N(CN) 2]Br respectivement dont l'amplitude est independante du champ magnetique jusqu'a H = Hc 2

Ising versus XY anisotropy in frustrated R(2)Ti(2)O(7) compounds as "Seen" by Polarized Neutrons.

PubMed

Cao, H; Gukasov, A; Mirebeau, I; Bonville, P; Decorse, C; Dhalenne, G

2009-07-31

We studied the field induced magnetic order in R(2)Ti(2)O(7) pyrochlore compounds with either uniaxial (R=Ho, Tb) or planar (R=Er, Yb) anisotropy, by polarized neutron diffraction. The determination of the local susceptibility tensor {chi(parallel to),chi(perpendicular)} provides a universal description of the field induced structures in the paramagnetic phase (2-270 K), whatever the field value (1-7 T) and direction. Comparison of the thermal variations of chi(parallel to) and chi(perpendicular) with calculations using the rare earth crystal field shows that exchange and dipolar interactions must be taken into account. We determine the molecular field tensor in each case and show that it can be strongly anisotropic.

Interdependent IL-7 and IFN-γ signalling in T-cell controls tumour eradication by combined α-CTLA-4+α-PD-1 therapy

PubMed Central

Shi, Lewis Zhichang; Fu, Tihui; Guan, Baoxiang; Chen, Jianfeng; Blando, Jorge M.; Allison, James P.; Xiong, Liangwen; Subudhi, Sumit K.; Gao, Jianjun; Sharma, Padmanee

2016-01-01

Combination therapy with α-CTLA-4 and α-PD-1 has shown significant clinical responses in different types of cancer. However, the underlying mechanisms remain elusive. Here, combining detailed analysis of human tumour samples with preclinical tumour models, we report that concomitant blockade of CTLA-4 and PD-1 improves anti-tumour immune responses and synergistically eradicates tumour. Mechanistically, combination therapy relies on the interdependence between IL-7 and IFN-γ signalling in T cells, as lack of either pathway abrogates the immune-boosting and therapeutic effects of combination therapy. Combination treatment increases IL-7Rα expression on tumour-infiltrating T cells in an IFN-γ/IFN-γR signalling-dependent manner, which may serve as a potential biomarker for clinical trials with immune checkpoint blockade. Our data suggest that combining immune checkpoint blockade with IL-7 signalling could be an effective modality to improve immunotherapeutic efficacy. Taken together, we conclude that combination therapy potently reverses immunosuppression and eradicates tumours via an intricate interplay between IFN-γ/IFN-γR and IL-7/IL-7R pathways. PMID:27498556

Musculoskeletal MRI at 3.0 T and 7.0 T: a comparison of relaxation times and image contrast.

PubMed

Jordan, Caroline D; Saranathan, Manojkumar; Bangerter, Neal K; Hargreaves, Brian A; Gold, Garry E

2013-05-01

The purpose of this study was to measure and compare the relaxation times of musculoskeletal tissues at 3.0 T and 7.0 T, and to use these measurements to select appropriate parameters for musculoskeletal protocols at 7.0 T. We measured the T₁ and T₂ relaxation times of cartilage, muscle, synovial fluid, bone marrow and subcutaneous fat at both 3.0 T and 7.0 T in the knees of five healthy volunteers. The T₁ relaxation times were measured using a spin-echo inversion recovery sequence with six inversion times. The T₂ relaxation times were measured using a spin-echo sequence with seven echo times. The accuracy of both the T₁ and T₂ measurement techniques was verified in phantoms at both magnetic field strengths. We used the measured relaxation times to help design 7.0 T musculoskeletal protocols that preserve the favorable contrast characteristics of our 3.0 T protocols, while achieving significantly higher resolution at higher SNR efficiency. The T₁ relaxation times in all tissues at 7.0 T were consistently higher than those measured at 3.0 T, while the T₂ relaxation times at 7.0 T were consistently lower than those measured at 3.0 T. The measured relaxation times were used to help develop high resolution 7.0 T protocols that had similar fluid-to-cartilage contrast to that of the standard clinical 3.0 T protocols for the following sequences: proton-density-weighted fast spin-echo (FSE), T₂-weighted FSE, and 3D-FSE-Cube. The T₁ and T₂ changes were within the expected ranges. Parameters for musculoskeletal protocols at 7.0 T can be optimized based on these values, yielding improved resolution in musculoskeletal imaging with similar contrast to that of standard 3.0 T clinical protocols. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Papillomavirus E7 Oncoproteins Share Functions with Polyomavirus Small T Antigens

PubMed Central

White, Elizabeth A.; Kramer, Rebecca E.; Hwang, Justin H.; Pores Fernando, Arun T.; Naetar, Nana; Hahn, William C.; Roberts, Thomas M.; Schaffhausen, Brian S.; Livingston, David M.

2014-01-01

ABSTRACT Many of the small DNA tumor viruses encode transforming proteins that function by targeting critical cellular pathways involved in cell proliferation and survival. In this study, we have examined whether some of the functions of the polyomavirus small T antigens (ST) are shared by the E6 and E7 oncoproteins of two oncogenic papillomaviruses. Using three different assays, we have found that E7 can provide some simian virus 40 (SV40) or murine polyomavirus (PyV) ST functions. Both human papillomavirus 16 (HPV16) and bovine papillomavirus (BPV1) E7 proteins are capable of partially substituting for SV40 ST in a transformation assay that also includes SV40 large T antigen, the catalytic subunit of cellular telomerase, and oncogenic Ras. Like SV40 ST, HPV16 E7 has the ability to override a quiescence block induced by mitogen deprivation. Like PyV ST, it also has the ability to inhibit myoblast differentiation. At least two of these activities are dependent upon the interaction of HPV16 E7 with retinoblastoma protein family members. For small T antigens, interaction with PP2A is needed for each of these functions. Even though there is no strong evidence that E6 or E7 share the ability of small T to interact with PP2A, E7 provides these functions related to cellular transformation. IMPORTANCE DNA tumor viruses have provided major insights into how cancers develop. Some viruses, like the human papillomaviruses, can cause cancer directly. Both the papillomaviruses and the polyomaviruses have served as tools for understanding pathways that are often perturbed in cancer. Here, we have compared the functions of transforming proteins from several DNA tumor viruses, including two papillomaviruses and two polyomaviruses. We tested the papillomavirus E6 and E7 oncoproteins in three functional assays and found that E7 can provide some or all of the functions of the SV40 small T antigen, another well-characterized oncoprotein, in two of these assays. In a third assay

EPA Region 7 Aquatic Focus Areas (ECO_RES.R7_AQUATIC_FOCUS_AREAS)

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

This shapefile consists of 347 individual Aquatic Ecological System (AES) polygons that are the Aquatic Conservation Focus Areas for EPA Region 7. The focus areas are those areas within each aquatic ecological system types that, if preserved, would maintain the biological and ecological diversity extant within that ecological system type. The layer consists of those polygons from the R7_AES.shp shapefile that had the highest ranks. The AES polygons in the Missouri portion of the file were appended and are those that contain the 158 aquatic conservation opportunity areas identified in Missouri as part of another project (Missouri Department of Conservation Aquatic Biodiversity Assessment 2005). Note that the identifiers in the Missouri portion of this file will not match the ID's in any Missouri specific files.

Genome sequence of the Lotus spp. microsymbiont Mesorhizobium loti strain R7A.

PubMed

Kelly, Simon; Sullivan, John; Ronson, Clive; Tian, Rui; Bräu, Lambert; Munk, Christine; Goodwin, Lynne; Han, Cliff; Woyke, Tanja; Reddy, Tatiparthi; Huntemann, Marcel; Pati, Amrita; Mavromatis, Konstantinos; Markowitz, Victor; Ivanova, Natalia; Kyrpides, Nikos; Reeve, Wayne

2014-01-01

Mesorhizobium loti strain R7A was isolated in 1993 in Lammermoor, Otago, New Zealand from a Lotus corniculatus root nodule and is a reisolate of the inoculant strain ICMP3153 (NZP2238) used at the site. R7A is an aerobic, Gram-negative, non-spore-forming rod. The symbiotic genes in the strain are carried on a 502-kb integrative and conjugative element known as the symbiosis island or ICEMlSym(R7A). M. loti is the microsymbiont of the model legume Lotus japonicus and strain R7A has been used extensively in studies of the plant-microbe interaction. This report reveals that the genome of M. loti strain R7A does not harbor any plasmids and contains a single scaffold of size 6,529,530 bp which encodes 6,323 protein-coding genes and 75 RNA-only encoding genes. This rhizobial genome is one of 100 sequenced as part of the DOE Joint Genome Institute 2010 Genomic Encyclopedia for Bacteria and Archaea-Root Nodule Bacteria (GEBA-RNB) project.

UV irradiation experiments under simulated martian surface conditions: Bio-effects on glycine, phage T7 and isolated T7 DNA

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bérces, Attila; ten Kate, I. L.; Fekete, A.; Hegedus, M.; Garry, J. R. C.; Lammer, Helmut; Ehrenfreund, Pascale; Peeters, Zan; Kovacs, G.; Ronto, G.

Mars is considered as a main target for astrobiologically relevant exploration programmes. In order to explain the non-detection of organic material to a detection level of several parts per billion (ppb) by the Viking landers, several hypotheses have been suggested, including degradation processes occurring on the martian surface and in the martian soil and subsurface. UV exposure experiments have been performed in which thin layers of glycine ( 300 nm), and aqueous suspensions of phage T7 and isolated T7 DNA were irradiated with a Deuterium lamp and for comparison with a Xenon arc lamp, modified to simulate the solar irradiation on the surface of Mars (MarsUV). The glycine sample was subjected to 24 hours of irradiation with MarsUV. The results of this glycine experiment show a destruction rate comparable to the results of previous experiments in which thin layers of glycine were irradiated with a deuterium lamp (ten Kate et al., 2005, 2006). After exposure of different doses of simulated Martian UV radiation a decrease of the biological activity of phages and characteristic changes in the UV absorption spectrum have been detected, indicating the UV damage of isolated and intraphage T7 DNA. The results of our experiments show that intraphage DNA is 4 times more sensitive to simulated martian UV and deuterium lamp radiation than isolated T7 DNA. This result indicates the significant role that phage proteins play in the UV damage. The effect of simulated martian radiation is smaller than the biological defects observed after the exposure with a deuterium lamp for both cases, in intraphage and isolated DNA, despite of the 100 times larger intensity of the MarsUV lamp. The detected spectral differences are about ten times smaller; the biological activity is about 3 - 4 times smaller, indicating that the shorter wavelength UV radiation from the deuterium lamp is more effective in inducing DNA damage, irrespective of being intraphage or isolated.

Le Programme d’enseignement décentralisé et la rétention des médecins omnipraticiens dans la région du Bas-Saint-Laurent au Québec

PubMed Central

Bustinza, Ray; Gagnon, Suzanne; Burigusa, Guillaume

2009-01-01

Résumé OBJECTIF Le but de cette étude était d’évaluer l’impact sur la rétention des médecins omnipraticiens du programme d’enseignement décentralisé, des mesures incitatives financières et de l’origine du médecin. DEVIS Nos données sont tirées de la banque du suivi des effectifs médicaux de la Régie régionale de la santé et des services sociaux du Bas-Saint-Laurent. Les questionnaires complétés par les médecins dans le cadre de cette étude ont été envoyés par la poste. MILIEU Bas-Saint-Laurent, Qué. PARTICIPANTS Des médecins omnipraticiens pratiquant depuis 1985 à août 2003 dans la région. MÉTHODOLOGIE Pour les analyses statistiques, nous avons fait appel à l’analyse multivariée, en utilisant le modèle des taux proportionnels de Cox de l’analyse de survie. RÉSULTATS La probabilité ajustée de demeurer en région, selon l’exposition aux stages de résidence en région, présente une tendance positive avec un rapport de 2,12 (P = 0,15). La probabilité de rester dans la région grimpe jusqu’à 4,5 fois plus (P < 0,01) pour un médecin originaire du Bas-Saint-Laurent. Le lien avec les mesures incitatives financières montre que la probabilité ajustée de demeurer dans le Bas-Saint-Laurent n’est pas significativement différente selon qu’ils aient ou non reçu les primes d’installation ou la bourse de la Régie de l’assurance-maladie du Québec. CONCLUSION Les facteurs les plus prometteurs pour retenir les médecins omnipraticiens en région touchent le recrutement en médecine de candidats des régions rurales et la formation décentralisée. PMID:19752242

Elucidating the pH-Dependent Structural Transition of T7 Bacteriophage Endolysin.

PubMed

Sharma, Meenakshi; Kumar, Dinesh; Poluri, Krishna Mohan

2016-08-23

Bacteriophages are the most abundant and diverse biological entities on earth. Bacteriophage endolysins are unique peptidoglycan hydrolases and have huge potential as effective enzybiotics in various infectious models. T7 bacteriophage endolysin (T7L), also known as N-acetylmuramoyl-l-alanine amidase or T7 lysozyme, is a 17 kDa protein that lyses a range of Gram-negative bacteria by hydrolyzing the amide bond between N-acetylmuramoyl residues and the l-alanine of the peptidoglycan layer. Although the activity profiles of several of the T7 family members have been known for many years, the molecular basis for their pH-dependent differential activity is not clear. In this study, we explored the pH-induced structural, stability, and activity characteristics of T7L by applying a variety of biophysical techniques and protein nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. Our studies established a reversible structural transition of T7L below pH 6 and the formation of a partially denatured conformation at pH 3. This low-pH conformation is thermally stable and exposed its hydrophobic pockets. Further, NMR relaxation measurements and structural analysis unraveled that T7L is highly dynamic in its native state and a network of His residues are responsible for the observed pH-dependent conformational dynamics and transitions. As bacteriophage chimeric and engineered endolysins are being developed as novel therapeutics against multiple drug resistance pathogens, we believe that our results are of great help in designing these entities as broadband antimicrobial and/or antibacterial agents.

Utilisation d'images aeroportees a tres haute resolution spatiale pour l'estimation de la vigueur des peuplements forestiers du nord-ouest du Nouveau-Brunswick

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Louis, Ognel Pierre

Le but de cette etude est de developper un outil permettant d'estimer le niveau de risque de perte de vigueur des peuplements forestiers de la region de Gounamitz au nord-ouest du Nouveau-Brunswick via des donnees d'inventaires forestiers et des donnees de teledetection. Pour ce faire, un marteloscope de 100m x 100m et 20 parcelles d'echantillonnages ont ete delimites. A l'interieur de ces derniers, le niveau de risque de perte de vigueur des arbres ayant un DHP superieur ou egal a 9 cm a ete determine. Afin de caracteriser le risque de perte de vigueur des arbres, leurs positions spatiales ont ete repertoriees a partir d'un GPS en tenant compte des defauts au niveau des tiges. Pour mener a bien ce travail, les indices de vegetation et de textures et les bandes spectrales de l'image aeroportee ont ete extraits et consideres comme variables independantes. Le niveau de risque de perte de vigueur obtenu par espece d'arbre a travers les inventaires forestiers a ete considere comme variable dependante. En vue d'obtenir la superficie des peuplements forestiers de la region d'etude, une classification dirigee des images a partir de l'algorithme maximum de vraisemblance a ete effectuee. Le niveau de risque de perte de vigueur par type d'arbre a ensuite ete estime a l'aide des reseaux de neurones en utilisant un reseau dit perceptron multicouches. Il s'agit d'un modele de reseau de neurones compose de : 11 neurones sur la couche d'entree, correspondant aux variables independantes, 35 neurones sur la couche cachee et 4 neurones sur la couche de sortie. La prediction a partir des reseaux de neurones produit une matrice de confusion qui permet d'obtenir des mesures quantitatives d'estimation, notamment un pourcentage de classification globale de 91,7% pour la prediction du risque de perte de vigueur du peuplement de resineux et de 89,7% pour celui du peuplement de feuillus. L'evaluation de la performance des reseaux de neurones fournit une valeur de MSE globale de 0,04, et une

Investigation of the B1 field distribution and RF power deposition in a birdcage coil as functions of the number of coil legs at 4.7 T, 7.0 T, and 11.7 T

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Seo, Jeung-Hoon; Han, Sang-Doc; Kim, Kyoung-Nam

2015-06-01

The proper design of birdcage (BC) coils plays a very important role in the acquisition of highresolution magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of small animals such as rodents. In this context, we investigate multiple-leg (8-, 16-, 32-, 64-, and 128-leg) BC coils operating at ultra-high fields (UHF) of 7.0 T and 11.7 T and a high-field (HF) of 4.7 T for rodent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Primarily, Our study comparatively examines the parameters of the radiofrequency (RF) transmission (|B1 +|)-field, the magnetic flux (|B1|)-field, and RF power deposition (RF-PD) as functions of the number of BC-coil legs via finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) calculations under realistic loading conditions with a biological phantom. In particular, the specific ratio |E/B1 +| is defined for predicting RF-PD values in different coil structures. Our results indicate that the optimal number of legs of the BC coil can be chosen for different resonance frequencies of 200 MHz, 300 MHz, and 500 MHz and that this choice can be lead to superior |B1 +|-field intensity and |B1|-field homogeneity and decreased RF-PD. We believe that our approach to determining the optimal number of legs for a BC coil can contribute to rodent MR imaging.

The highly efficient T7 RNA polymerase: A wonder macromolecule in biological realm.

PubMed

Borkotoky, Subhomoi; Murali, Ayaluru

2018-05-27

The study of bacteriophage has always been of keen interest for biologists to understand the fundamentals of biology. Bacteriophage T7 was first isolated in 1945 and its first comprehensive genetic map of was published in 1969. Since then, it gained immense attention of researchers and became a prime model system for experimental biologists. The major gene product of T7 phage, T7 RNA polymerase (T7RNAP), continues to attract researchers since a long time due to its high and specific processivity with a single subunit structure and its capability of transcribing a complete gene without additional proteins. Since the first review article in 1993 there has been around nine reviews on this polymerase till year 2009, most of which focussed on particular aspects of T7RNAP such as structure and function. However, this review encapsulates a broad view on T7RNAP, one of the simplest macromolecule catalyzing RNA synthesis including recent updates on its applications, structure, activators and inhibitors. Thus this brief review bridges the huge gap on the recent updates on this polymerase and will help the biologists in their endeavours that include the use of T7RNAP. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier B.V.

T7 replisome directly overcomes DNA damage

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sun, Bo; Pandey, Manjula; Inman, James T.; Yang, Yi; Kashlev, Mikhail; Patel, Smita S.; Wang, Michelle D.

2015-12-01

Cells and viruses possess several known `restart' pathways to overcome lesions during DNA replication. However, these `bypass' pathways leave a gap in replicated DNA or require recruitment of accessory proteins, resulting in significant delays to fork movement or even cell division arrest. Using single-molecule and ensemble methods, we demonstrate that the bacteriophage T7 replisome is able to directly replicate through a leading-strand cyclobutane pyrimidine dimer (CPD) lesion. We show that when a replisome encounters the lesion, a substantial fraction of DNA polymerase (DNAP) and helicase stay together at the lesion, the replisome does not dissociate and the helicase does not move forward on its own. The DNAP is able to directly replicate through the lesion by working in conjunction with helicase through specific helicase-DNAP interactions. These observations suggest that the T7 replisome is fundamentally permissive of DNA lesions via pathways that do not require fork adjustment or replisome reassembly.

Cholesterol 7alpha-hydroxylase (CYP7A1) activity is modified after chronic ingestion of depleted uranium in the rat.

PubMed

Racine, R; Grandcolas, L; Grison, S; Stefani, J; Delissen, O; Gourmelon, P; Veyssière, G; Souidi, M

2010-05-01

Depleted uranium (DU) is a radioactive heavy metal derived from the nuclear energy production. Its wide use in civilian and military items increases the risk of its environmental dissemination, and thus the risk of internal contamination of populations living in such contaminated territories. Previous studies have shown that vitamin D and cerebral cholesterol metabolisms were affected following chronic ingestion of DU. Even more than the brain, the liver is a crucial organ in cholesterol homeostasis since it regulates cholesterol distribution and elimination at body level. The aim of this work was to assess the impact of a low-level chronic ingestion of DU on hepatic cholesterol metabolism. Rats were contaminated with DU in their drinking water at a concentration of 40mg/l for 9 months. The major effect induced by DU was a decrease of CYP7A1 specific activity (-60%) correlated with a matching decrease of its product 7alpha-hydroxycholesterol in the plasma. Hepatic gene expression of transporters ABC A1, ABC G5, ABC G8 and of nuclear receptor RXR was increased, whereas that of catabolism enzyme CYP7B1 was decreased. Thus, after a chronic ingestion of DU, rats experience a modulation of cholesterol catabolism but overcome it, since their cholesterolemia is preserved and no pathology is declared.

Expression of zinc transporter ZnT7 in mouse superior cervical ganglion

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The superior cervical ganglion (SCG) neurons contain a considerable amount of zinc ions, but little is known about zinc homeostasis in the SCG. It is known that zinc transporter 7 (ZnT7, Slc30a7), a member of the Slc30 ZnT family, is involved in mobilizing zinc ions from the cytoplasm into the Golgi...

Séroprévalence des marqueurs viraux sur les dons du sang au Centre de Transfusion Sanguine, Hôpital Militaire d’Instruction Mohammed V de Rabat

PubMed Central

Uwingabiye, Jean; Zahid, Hafidi; Unyendje, Loubet; Hadef, Rachid

2016-01-01

Le but de ce travail était de déterminer la prévalence du virus de l’immunodéficience humaine (VIH), du virus de l’hépatite B (VHB) et C (VHC) sur les dons du sang collectés au Centre de transfusion sanguine(CTS) de l’hôpital militaire d’instruction Mohammed V entre 2010 et 2012. Etude rétrospective menée auprès des donneurs de sang militaires âgés de 18 à 50 ans avec prédominance masculine (95%). L’entretien médical pré-don constitue la première barrière de sélection des sujets à risque. Le dépistage biologique était réalisé par technique immuno-enzymatique en milieu liquide utilisant des anticorps et/ou des antigènes. L’ELISA (enzyme linked immuno-sorbent assay) combiné de quatrième génération pour VHC et VIH a été utilisé. La confirmation a été faite en réalisant la même technique en double au CTS et au laboratoire de virologie. Dans notre série de 25661 échantillons testés, la prévalence du VHB était 3,97‰ (n=102), celle de VHC était 2,45 ‰ (n=63), celle de VIH était 0,15 ‰ (n=4). Un seul cas de coïnfection (0,039 ‰) par le VHB et VHC a été noté, aucune association entre VIH-VHB, VIH-VHC ou VHB, VHC et VIH n’a été enregistrée. Les taux faibles de séroprévalence des marqueurs viraux de notre étude montrent l’amélioration des mesures préventives en ce qui concerne la sélection des donneurs et des tests de dépistage. Cette prévalence constatée incite à maintenir l’utilisation du réactif combiné qui est la seule alternative à la biologie moléculaire pour les pays en voie de développement. PMID:28292147

Intermittent IL-7 Signaling Essential for T cell Homeostasis | Center for Cancer Research

Cancer.gov

In order for the immune system to mount an appropriate response to foreign antigens throughout a person’s life, the body must maintain a sufficient population of circulating mature, naïve T cells, a process known as T cell homeostasis. Previous studies revealed that this process depends upon signaling from the cytokine interleukin-7 (IL-7) as well as from the T cell antigen receptor (TCR). Intriguingly, signals from each pathway affect the other and lead to their alternating activation: IL-7 binding to its receptor leads to increasing expression of the TCR co-receptor CD8; sufficient CD8 expression allows TCRs to signal when bound to self-ligands, blocking IL-7 signaling; suppressed IL-7 signals lead to down-regulation of CD8 and ligand disengagement, which allows T cells to again respond to IL-7. Alfred Singer, M.D., and his colleagues in CCR’s Experimental Immunology Branch set out to understand how this intricate pathway promotes T cell survival.

Transport and thermoelectric properties of Sr{sub 3}(Ti{sub 0.95}R{sub 0.05}){sub 2}O{sub 7} (R = Ta, Nb, W) oxides

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

Sun, R. R.; Qin, X. Y.; Li, L. L.

2012-12-15

The Sr{sub 3}(Ti{sub 0.95}R{sub 0.05}){sub 2}O{sub 7} (R = Ta, Nb, W) polycrystalline compounds were fabricated, and their transport and thermoelectric properties were investigated. The results indicate that at T > 300 K electrical resistivity {rho} for all the doped compounds increases monotonically with temperature, and basically can be described by a relation {rho}{proportional_to}T{sup M} at T > {approx}650 K, with M = 1.39, 1.66, and 1.77 for R = Ta, Nb, and W, respectively, implying that at the high temperatures the acoustic phonon scattering dominates the scattering process. Although the resistivity {rho} of Sr{sub 3}(Ti{sub 0.95}Ta{sub 0.05}){sub 2}O{sub 7}more » exhibits a metallic-like behavior at the temperature as low as 5 K, a transition from metallic state (d{rho}/dT > 0) to semiconductor-like state (d{rho}/dT < 0) was observed at a critical low temperature {approx}41 K and {approx}79 K for R = Nb and W, respectively. At T < {approx}22 K, {approx}57 K, and {approx}80 K, a relation of {sigma}{proportional_to}T{sup 1/2} (here conductivity {sigma} = 1/{rho}) holds for the doped compounds with R = Nb, Ta, and W, respectively, suggesting that at the low temperatures the main transport mechanism is electron-electron interaction due to the presence of disorder induced by the dopants. The thermoelectric figure of merit (ZT) for Ta-doped compound increases more steeply with increasing temperature among the three compounds and reaches 0.066 at 1000 K.« less

T7 RNA Polymerase Functions In Vitro without Clustering

PubMed Central

Finan, Kieran; Torella, Joseph P.; Kapanidis, Achillefs N.; Cook, Peter R.

2012-01-01

Many nucleic acid polymerases function in clusters known as factories. We investigate whether the RNA polymerase (RNAP) of phage T7 also clusters when active. Using ‘pulldowns’ and fluorescence correlation spectroscopy we find that elongation complexes do not interact in vitro with a Kd<1 µM. Chromosome conformation capture also reveals that genes located 100 kb apart on the E. coli chromosome do not associate more frequently when transcribed by T7 RNAP. We conclude that if clustering does occur in vivo, it must be driven by weak interactions, or mediated by a phage-encoded protein. PMID:22768341

Photocatalytic properties of amine functionalized Bi2Sn2O7/rGO nanocomposites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gnanamoorthy, G.; Muthamizh, S.; Sureshbabu, K.; Munusamy, S.; Padmanaban, A.; Kaaviya, A.; Nagarajan, R.; Stephen, A.; Narayanan, V.

2018-07-01

The binary metal oxide nanomaterials are having applications in various fields like sensors, optics, electrocatalyst and photocatalyst so on. Bi2Sn2O7 with pyrochlore structure is having low band gap energy; hence it is utilized in battery storage and gas sensor applications. In the present work, we have made an attempt to synthesis amine-functionalized Bi2Sn2O7/rGO nanocomposites by a thermal decomposition method and in-situ method; the synthesized nanocomposites were confirmed by XRD, FT-IR and Raman analysis. The AF-Bi2Sn2O7/rGO nanocomposites morphology was confirmed by FE-SEM along with EDX spectroscopy, we obtained different flowers and nest-like morphology. The pure and composite material band gap energy is decreases from 2.6 eV to 1.6 eV. All three nanomaterials Bi2Sn2O7, AF-Bi2Sn2O7, AF-Bi2Sn2O7/rGO nanocomposites (AF-amine functionalized) were utilized for the photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue dye under visible light irradiation. AF-Bi2Sn2O7/rGO nanocomposite showed an excellent photocatalytic activity than pure Bi2Sn2O7 and AF- Bi2Sn2O7.

Etude séro-épidémiologique de la leishmaniose canine au centre du Maroc

PubMed Central

Fellah, Hajiba; Doughmi, Oursula; Maniar, Saâd; Lalami, Abdelhakim El Ouali

2014-01-01

Dans le monde, la leishmaniose viscérale humaine est connue pour avoir comme principale source d'infection les Canidés domestiques et sauvages. Au centre du Maroc, les données épidémiologiques, cliniques et parasitologiques sur la leishmaniose canine, sont quasiment inexistantes. Ce travail traite une étude prospective au cours de laquelle 61 sérums canins ont été analysés par un test rapide et par l'immunofluorescence indirecte. La sensibilité du test rapide par rapport à celle de l'immunofluorescence indirecte (IFI) est de 33,33%. La fréquence de la maladie chez les chiens s’élève à 9,83% (Test Rapide) et 24,59% (IFI). 73,33% des cas canins positifs à la sérologie sont asymptomatiques. Ce sont les jeunes chiens de moins de 5 ans qui sont les plus fréquemment atteints avec une sensibilité de la race Berger Allmand à l'infection. Cette étude a permis de mettre en évidence la présence de chiens leishmaniens (15 chiens séropositifs parmi 61) et de prouver l'existence du réservoir canin. Une stratégie de prévention active doit être mise en place. PMID:25852791

C-terminal Phenylalanine of Bacteriophage T7 Single-stranded DNA-binding Protein Is Essential for Strand Displacement Synthesis by T7 DNA Polymerase at a Nick in DNA*

PubMed Central

Ghosh, Sharmistha; Marintcheva, Boriana; Takahashi, Masateru; Richardson, Charles C.

2009-01-01

Single-stranded DNA-binding protein (gp2.5), encoded by gene 2.5 of bacteriophage T7, plays an essential role in DNA replication. Not only does it remove impediments of secondary structure in the DNA, it also modulates the activities of the other replication proteins. The acidic C-terminal tail of gp2.5, bearing a C-terminal phenylalanine, physically and functionally interacts with the helicase and DNA polymerase. Deletion of the phenylalanine or substitution with a nonaromatic amino acid gives rise to a dominant lethal phenotype, and the altered gp2.5 has reduced affinity for T7 DNA polymerase. Suppressors of the dominant lethal phenotype have led to the identification of mutations in gene 5 that encodes the T7 DNA polymerase. The altered residues in the polymerase are solvent-exposed and lie in regions that are adjacent to the bound DNA. gp2.5 lacking the C-terminal phenylalanine has a lower affinity for gp5-thioredoxin relative to the wild-type gp2.5, and this affinity is partially restored by the suppressor mutations in DNA polymerase. gp2.5 enables T7 DNA polymerase to catalyze strand displacement DNA synthesis at a nick in DNA. The resulting 5′-single-stranded DNA tail provides a loading site for T7 DNA helicase. gp2.5 lacking the C-terminal phenylalanine does not support this event with wild-type DNA polymerase but does to a limited extent with T7 DNA polymerase harboring the suppressor mutations. PMID:19726688

C-terminal phenylalanine of bacteriophage T7 single-stranded DNA-binding protein is essential for strand displacement synthesis by T7 DNA polymerase at a nick in DNA.

PubMed

Ghosh, Sharmistha; Marintcheva, Boriana; Takahashi, Masateru; Richardson, Charles C

2009-10-30

Single-stranded DNA-binding protein (gp2.5), encoded by gene 2.5 of bacteriophage T7, plays an essential role in DNA replication. Not only does it remove impediments of secondary structure in the DNA, it also modulates the activities of the other replication proteins. The acidic C-terminal tail of gp2.5, bearing a C-terminal phenylalanine, physically and functionally interacts with the helicase and DNA polymerase. Deletion of the phenylalanine or substitution with a nonaromatic amino acid gives rise to a dominant lethal phenotype, and the altered gp2.5 has reduced affinity for T7 DNA polymerase. Suppressors of the dominant lethal phenotype have led to the identification of mutations in gene 5 that encodes the T7 DNA polymerase. The altered residues in the polymerase are solvent-exposed and lie in regions that are adjacent to the bound DNA. gp2.5 lacking the C-terminal phenylalanine has a lower affinity for gp5-thioredoxin relative to the wild-type gp2.5, and this affinity is partially restored by the suppressor mutations in DNA polymerase. gp2.5 enables T7 DNA polymerase to catalyze strand displacement DNA synthesis at a nick in DNA. The resulting 5'-single-stranded DNA tail provides a loading site for T7 DNA helicase. gp2.5 lacking the C-terminal phenylalanine does not support this event with wild-type DNA polymerase but does to a limited extent with T7 DNA polymerase harboring the suppressor mutations.

7T MRI subthalamic nucleus atlas for use with 3T MRI.

PubMed

Milchenko, Mikhail; Norris, Scott A; Poston, Kathleen; Campbell, Meghan C; Ushe, Mwiza; Perlmutter, Joel S; Snyder, Abraham Z

2018-01-01

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) of the subthalamic nucleus (STN) reduces motor symptoms in most patients with Parkinson disease (PD), yet may produce untoward effects. Investigation of DBS effects requires accurate localization of the STN, which can be difficult to identify on magnetic resonance images collected with clinically available 3T scanners. The goal of this study is to develop a high-quality STN atlas that can be applied to standard 3T images. We created a high-definition STN atlas derived from seven older participants imaged at 7T. This atlas was nonlinearly registered to a standard template representing 56 patients with PD imaged at 3T. This process required development of methodology for nonlinear multimodal image registration. We demonstrate mm-scale STN localization accuracy by comparison of our 3T atlas with a publicly available 7T atlas. We also demonstrate less agreement with an earlier histological atlas. STN localization error in the 56 patients imaged at 3T was less than 1 mm on average. Our methodology enables accurate STN localization in individuals imaged at 3T. The STN atlas and underlying 3T average template in MNI space are freely available to the research community. The image registration methodology developed in the course of this work may be generally applicable to other datasets.

CHEMOKINE RECEPTOR 7 (CCR7)-EXPRESSION AND IFNγ PRODUCTION DEFINE VACCINE-SPECIFIC CANINE T CELL SUBSETS

PubMed Central

Hartley, Ashley N.; Tarleton, Rick L.

2015-01-01

Canines suffer from and serve as strong translational animals models for many immunological disorders and infectious diseases. Routine vaccination has been a mainstay of protecting dogs through the stimulation of robust antibody responses and expansion of memory T cell populations. Commercially available reagents and described techniques are limited for identifying and characterizing canine T cell subsets and evaluating T cell-specific effector function. To define reagents for delineating naïve versus activated T cells and identify antigen-specific T cells, we tested anti-human and anti-bovine T-cell specific cell surface marker reagents for cross-reactivity with canine peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs. Both CD4+ and CD8+ T cells from healthy canine donors showed reactivity to CCL19-Ig, a CCR7 ligand, and coexpression with CD62L. An in vitro stimulation with concanavalin A validated downregulation of CCR7 and CD62L expression on stimulated healthy control PBMCs, consistent with an activated T cell phenotype. Anti-IFNγ antibodies identified antigen-specific IFNγ-producing CD4+ and CD8+ T cells upon in vitro vaccine antigen PBMC stimulation. PBMC isolation within 24 hours of sample collection allowed for efficient cell recovery and accurate T cell effector function characterization. These data provide a reagent and techniques platform via flow cytometry for identifying canine T cell subsets and characterizing circulating antigen-specific canine T cells for potential use in diagnostic and field settings. PMID:25758065

Re-entrant relaxor behavior of Ba{sub 5}RTi{sub 3}Nb{sub 7}O{sub 30} (R = La, Nd, Sm) tungsten bronze ceramics

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

Li, Kun; Li Zhu, Xiao; Qiang Liu, Xiao

2013-03-18

Ba{sub 5}RTi{sub 3}Nb{sub 7}O{sub 30} (R = La, Nd, Sm) tungsten bronze ceramics were prepared, and the dielectric and ferroelectric properties were investigated over a broad temperature range. The relaxor nature was determined for all compositions in their permittivity curves, and a second anomaly of the dielectric loss (tan {delta}) was observed around 250 K in Ba{sub 5}NdTi{sub 3}Nb{sub 7}O{sub 30} and around 275 K in Ba{sub 5}SmTi{sub 3}Nb{sub 7}O{sub 30}. Both the maximum and remanent polarization tended to decrease and vanish at low temperatures in the ferroelectric phase for all compositions, which was referred to as the low temperaturemore » re-entrant relaxor behavior. The remanent polarization increased with decreasing temperature first and then reached the maximum value at the re-entrant temperature (T{sub r}). For Ba{sub 5}RTi{sub 3}Nb{sub 7}O{sub 30} (R = La, Nd, Sm), T{sub r} decreased with the radius of R{sup 3+} cations and the applied field amplitude.« less

Etude longitudinale de la névralgie cervico-brachiale dans le service de neurologie du CHU Gabriel Touré, Bamako (Mali)

PubMed Central

Maiga, Youssoufa; Fara, Amina Ahmed; Sogoba, Youssouf; Diango, Djibo; Diakite, Sara; Diallo, Mohamed; Ak, Hadiza; Diallo, Gangaly; Traore, Hamar Alassane

2013-01-01

Introduction La Névralgie Cervico-Brachiale (NCB) est une pathologie relativement fréquente dans la pratique courante. Elle est pourvoyeuse d'importants coûts médicaux et socio-économiques. Peu de données existent sur la NCB en Afrique. Méthodes Il s'agit d'une étude longitudinale, descriptive et prospective qui s'est déroulée du 1er novembre 2009 au 30 Août 2010 au CHU Gabriel Touré de Bamako, Mali. Elle a pour objectif d’étudier les caractéristiques épidémiologiques et cliniques de la NCB. Le diagnostic à été strictement clinique, et la DN4 a permis de déterminer les caractéristiques de cette névralgie. L'intensité de la douleur a été évaluée par l’échelle verbale simple (EVS). L’échelle concis de la douleur et l’échelle HAD ont permis d’étudier l'impact de la douleur sur la qualité de vie des patients. Résultats La fréquence de la NCB est de 10,9%. Les ménagères sont les plus touchées, 21(40,4%). L’âge moyen des patients est de 48 ±7 ans. La tranche d’âge de 50-59 ans représente la classe modale. La douleur est à prédominance nocturne chez 75,0% des patients. Les décharges électriques sont la caractéristique principale soit 48,1% des patients et 57,7% malades présentent une douleur intense. Sur le plan topographique, la racine C7, est la plus atteinte soit 50,0%. Sur la qualité de la vie, 44,2% des malades présentent des troubles du sommeil. Sur le plan thérapeutique l’évolution a été favorable chez 78,8% des patients sous AINS, Tramadol et Amitriptilline. Conclusion otre travail à l'instar des études antérieures sur la NCB montre que cette pathologie reste une entité clinique relativement courante. Le pronostic généralement favorable est fonction d'un diagnostic précoce et d'une prise en charge adaptée. PMID:24648859

Identification and utilization of cleistogamy gene cl7(t) in rice (Oryza sativa L.).

PubMed

Ni, Da-Hu; Li, Juan; Duan, Yong-Bo; Yang, Ya-Chun; Wei, Peng-Cheng; Xu, Rong-Fang; Li, Chun-Rong; Liang, Dan-Dan; Li, Hao; Song, Feng-Shun; Ni, Jin-Long; Li, Li; Yang, Jian-Bo

2014-05-01

Gene transformation is an important method for improvement of plants into elite varieties. However, the possibility of gene flow between genetically modified (GM) crops and similar species is a serious public issue that may potentially endanger ecological stability. Cleistogamy is expected to be an ideal genetic tool for preventing transgene propagation from GM crops. A rice mutant, cl7(t), was created by ethyl methanesulfonate mutagenesis. The mutant exhibited cleistogamy, and had closed spikelets, reduced plant height, and altered morphology of the leaves, panicle, and seeds. Anatomical investigations revealed that the cl7(t) mutant contained more vascular bundles and thicker stems than the wild type, which increased the mechanical strength of its internodes, and anti-lodging ability. Further studies demonstrated that the force required to open the lemma and palea was higher in the cl7(t) mutant, and there was weak swelling ability in the lodicules, which leads to cleistogamy. Allelic analyses and complementation tests indicated that cl7(t) was a novel allele of dep2, a mutant that was previously reported to have similar panicle morphology. Sequence analysis showed that cl7(t) had a single nucleotide substitution (C to A) in the third exon that leads to a Ser substitution with a stop codon, giving a truncated DEP2 protein. Quantitative RT-PCR and in situ hybridization tests demonstrated that there was lower CL7(t) expression level in the spikelets and weaker CL7(t) signals in the lodicules of the cl7(t) mutant compared with wild type, which implies that CL7(t) might participate in the development of lodicules. To improve the agronomic traits of cl7(t) to fit the needs of field production, the cl7(t) mutant was crossed with an intermediate-type rice variety named Guanghui102, which bears some important agronomic traits, including increased grain numbers and high rate of seed setting. Through multi-generational pedigree selection, cleistogamy lines with improved

Haute prévalence du Burnout dans les unités Tunisiennes prenant en charge des patients en fin de vie

PubMed Central

Amamou, Badii; Bannour, Ahmed Souhaiel; Ben Hadj Yahia, Meriem; Ben Nasr, Selma; Ben Hadj Ali, Bechir

2014-01-01

Introduction Chez le personnel soignant, le burnout touche un infirmier sur trois. Ce taux est plus élevé dans les unités prenant en charge des patients en fin de vie. L'objectif de notre travail était d'évaluer la fréquence du burnout chez les infirmiers qui travaillent en soins de fin de vie. Méthodes Il s'agit d'une étude descriptive transversale réalisée entre le 1er Avril et le 31 Mai 2010. 60 infirmiers de six services de Sousse et de Monastir (Tunisie) ont été recrutés. L'évaluation du burnout a été réalisée par deux échelles: MBI (Maslach Burnout Inventory) et BMS (Burnout Measure Short version). Résultats La prévalence du burnout était de 70%; il était élevé chez 81.7%. 80% avaient un niveau élevé d'épuisement émotionnel, 70% avaient un niveau élevé de dépersonnalisation et 17% avaient un niveau bas de sentiment d'accomplissement personnel. Le burnout était plus élevé chez les hommes (70,8% vs 69,4%; p=0,013); ceux qui voulaient améliorer les conditions du travail (70.2% vs. 66.7%; p= 0.017); du salaire (70.2% vs. 66.7%; p= 0.017) et chez les infirmiers suivi en psychiatrie (71.4% vs. 69.8%; p= 0.008). Conclusion Dans notre étude le niveau de burnout était élevé chez les infirmiers prenant en charge des patients en fin de vie. Il était associé au sexe masculin et à l'insatisfaction des conditions de travail et du salaire. D'autres études longitudinales sont nécessaires pour suivre l'évolution de ce syndrome et mettre des stratégies de prévention adéquates. PMID:25584122

Diagnostic and prognostic potential of serum miR-7, miR-16, miR-25, miR-93, miR-182, miR-376a and miR-429 in ovarian cancer patients.

PubMed

Meng, Xiaodan; Joosse, Simon A; Müller, Volkmar; Trillsch, Fabian; Milde-Langosch, Karin; Mahner, Sven; Geffken, Maria; Pantel, Klaus; Schwarzenbach, Heidi

2015-11-03

Owing to late diagnosis in advanced disease stages, prognosis of patients with epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is poor. The quantification of deregulated levels of microRNAs could facilitate earlier diagnosis and improve prognosis of EOC. Seven microRNAs (miR-7, miR-16, miR-25, miR-93, miR-182, miR-376a and miR-429) were quantified in the serum of 180 EOC patients and 66 healthy women by TaqMan PCR microRNA assays. Median follow-up time was 21 months. The effects of miR-7 and miR-429 on apoptosis, cell proliferation, migration and invasion were investigated in two (EOC) cell lines. Serum levels of miR-25 (P=0.0001) and miR-93 (P=0.0001) were downregulated, whereas those of miR-7 (P=0.001) and miR-429 (P=0.0001) were upregulated in EOC patients compared with healthy women. The four microRNAs discriminated EOC patients from healthy women with a sensitivity of 93% and a specificity of 92%. The levels of miR-429 positively correlated with CA125 values (P=0.0001) and differed between FIGO I-II and III-IV stages (P=0.001). MiR-429 was an independent predictor of overall survival (P=0.011). Overexpressed miR-429 in SKOV3 cells led to suppression of cell migration (P=0.037) and invasion (P=0.011). Increased levels of miR-7 were associated with lymph node metastases (P=0.0001) and FIGO stages III-IV (P=0.0001). Overexpressed miR-7 in SKOV3 cells resulted in increased cell migration (P=0.001) and invasion (P=0.011). Additionally, the increased levels of miR-376a correlated with FIGO stages III-IV (P=0.02). Our data indicate the diagnostic potential of miR-7, miR-25, miR-93 and miR-429 in EOC and the prognostic potential of miR-429. This microRNA panel may be promising molecules to be targeted in the treatment of EOC.

Etude du champ magnetique dans les nuages moleculaires

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Houde, Martin

2001-12-01

Ce travail est une étude du champ magnétique duns l'environnement circumstellaire des étoiles jeunes. Il a pour origine la certitude qu'avait l'auteur qu'il se devait d'être possible de détecter la présence d'un champ magnétique, et de possiblement le caractériser, par le biais d'observations de profils spectraux d'espèces moléculaires ioniques. Il en découle donc qu'un des buts principaux était de prouver que cela est effectivement possible. La thèse comporte alors des éléments théoriques et expérimentaux qui sont à la fois complémentaires et intimement liés. L'aspect théorique est basé sur l'interaction mutuelle que des particules neutres et chargées peuvent avoir l'une sur l'autre daps un plasma faiblement ionisé comme ceux existants daps les nuages moléculaires sites de formation stellaire. Il appert que la présence d'un champ magnétique a un effet direct sur le comportement des ions (via la force de Lorentz) et indirect sur les molécules neutres (via les nombreuses collisions entre les deux types de particules). Une telle interaction est, comme il est maintenant bien connu, présente dans les premières étapes de la formation dune étoile. Il s'agit bien sûr de la diffusion ambipolaire. Nous montrerons qu'il existe cependant un autre type de diffusion, jusqu'ici inconnue, qui se manifeste plus tard au tours de l'évolution des nuages moléculaires. Celle-ci peut avoir un effet dramatique sur l'apparence des profils spectraux (de rotation moléculaire) des espèces ioniques lorsque comparés à ceux qu'exhibent des espèces neutres coexistantes. Mais pour ce faire, il doit y avoir existence de mouvements organisés (des flots ou jets) de matière ou encore la présence de turbulence dans les régions considérées. Une distribution de vélocité du type maxwellienne ne révèlera pas la présence du champ magnétique. Les observations, qui ont pour but de confirmer la théorie, se situent dans le domaine des longueurs d

Microstrip Butler matrix design and realization for 7 T MRI.

PubMed

Yazdanbakhsh, Pedram; Solbach, Klaus

2011-07-01

This article presents the design and realization of 8 × 8 and 16 × 16 Butler matrices for 7 T MRI systems. With the focus on low insertion loss and high amplitude/phase accuracy, the microstrip line integration technology (microwave-integrated circuit) was chosen for the realization. Laminate material of high permittivity (ε(r) = 11) and large thickness (h = 3.2 mm) is shown to allow the best trade-off of circuit board size versus insertion loss, saving circuit area by extensive folding of branch-line coupler topology and meandering phase shifter and connecting strip lines and reducing mutual coupling of neighboring strip lines by shield structures between strip lines. With this approach, 8 × 8 Butler matrices were produced in single boards of 310 mm × 530 mm, whereas the 16 × 16 Butler matrices combined two submatrices of 8 × 8 with two smaller boards. Insertion loss was found at 0.73 and 1.1 dB for an 8 × 8 matrix and 16 × 16 matrix, respectively. Measured amplitude and phase errors are shown to represent highly pure mode excitation with unwanted modes suppressed by 40 and 35 dB, respectively. Both types of matrices were implemented with a 7 T MRI system and 8- and 16-element coil arrays for RF mode shimming experiments and operated successfully with 8 kW of RF power. Copyright © 2011 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Single-shot spiral imaging at 7 T.

PubMed

Engel, Maria; Kasper, Lars; Barmet, Christoph; Schmid, Thomas; Vionnet, Laetitia; Wilm, Bertram; Pruessmann, Klaas P

2018-03-25

The purpose of this work is to explore the feasibility and performance of single-shot spiral MRI at 7 T, using an expanded signal model for reconstruction. Gradient-echo brain imaging is performed on a 7 T system using high-resolution single-shot spiral readouts and half-shot spirals that perform dual-image acquisition after a single excitation. Image reconstruction is based on an expanded signal model including the encoding effects of coil sensitivity, static off-resonance, and magnetic field dynamics. The latter are recorded concurrently with image acquisition, using NMR field probes. The resulting image resolution is assessed by point spread function analysis. Single-shot spiral imaging is achieved at a nominal resolution of 0.8 mm, using spiral-out readouts of 53-ms duration. High depiction fidelity is achieved without conspicuous blurring or distortion. Effective resolutions are assessed as 0.8, 0.94, and 0.98 mm in CSF, gray matter and white matter, respectively. High image quality is also achieved with half-shot acquisition yielding image pairs at 1.5-mm resolution. Use of an expanded signal model enables single-shot spiral imaging at 7 T with unprecedented image quality. Single-shot and half-shot spiral readouts deploy the sensitivity benefit of high field for rapid high-resolution imaging, particularly for functional MRI and arterial spin labeling. © 2018 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.

Tamoxifen Inhibition of Kv7.2/Kv7.3 Channels

PubMed Central

Ferrer, Tania; Aréchiga-Figueroa, Ivan Arael; Shapiro, Mark S.; Tristani-Firouzi, Martin; Sanchez-Chapula, José A.

2013-01-01

KCNQ genes encode five Kv7 K+ channel subunits (Kv7.1–Kv7.5). Four of these (Kv7.2–Kv7.5) are expressed in the nervous system. Kv7.2 and Kv7.3 are the principal molecular components of the slow voltage-gated M-channel, which regulates neuronal excitability. In this study, we demonstrate that tamoxifen, an estrogen receptor antagonist used in the treatment of breast cancer, inhibits Kv7.2/Kv7.3 currents heterologously expressed in human embryonic kidney HEK-293 cells. Current inhibition by tamoxifen was voltage independent but concentration-dependent. The IC50 for current inhibition was 1.68 ± 0.44 µM. The voltage-dependent activation of the channel was not modified. Tamoxifen inhibited Kv7.2 homomeric channels with a higher potency (IC50 = 0.74 ± 0.16 µM). The mutation Kv7.2 R463E increases phosphatidylinositol- 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2) - channel interaction and diminished dramatically the inhibitory effect of tamoxifen compared with that for wild type Kv7.2. Conversely, the mutation Kv7.2 R463Q, which decreases PIP2 -channel interaction, increased tamoxifen potency. Similar results were obtained on the heteromeric Kv7.2 R463Q/Kv7.3 and Kv7.2 R463E/Kv7.3 channels, compared to Kv7.2/Kv7.3 WT. Overexpression of type 2A PI(4)P5-kinase (PIP5K 2A) significantly reduced tamoxifen inhibition of Kv7.2/Kv7.3 and Kv7.2 R463Q channels. Our results suggest that tamoxifen inhibited Kv7.2/Kv7.3 channels by interfering with PIP2-channel interaction because of its documented interaction with PIP2 and the similar effect of tamoxifen on various PIP2 sensitive channels. PMID:24086693

Tamoxifen inhibition of kv7.2/kv7.3 channels.

PubMed

Ferrer, Tania; Aréchiga-Figueroa, Ivan Arael; Shapiro, Mark S; Tristani-Firouzi, Martin; Sanchez-Chapula, José A

2013-01-01

KCNQ genes encode five Kv7 K(+) channel subunits (Kv7.1-Kv7.5). Four of these (Kv7.2-Kv7.5) are expressed in the nervous system. Kv7.2 and Kv7.3 are the principal molecular components of the slow voltage-gated M-channel, which regulates neuronal excitability. In this study, we demonstrate that tamoxifen, an estrogen receptor antagonist used in the treatment of breast cancer, inhibits Kv7.2/Kv7.3 currents heterologously expressed in human embryonic kidney HEK-293 cells. Current inhibition by tamoxifen was voltage independent but concentration-dependent. The IC50 for current inhibition was 1.68 ± 0.44 µM. The voltage-dependent activation of the channel was not modified. Tamoxifen inhibited Kv7.2 homomeric channels with a higher potency (IC50 = 0.74 ± 0.16 µM). The mutation Kv7.2 R463E increases phosphatidylinositol- 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2) - channel interaction and diminished dramatically the inhibitory effect of tamoxifen compared with that for wild type Kv7.2. Conversely, the mutation Kv7.2 R463Q, which decreases PIP2 -channel interaction, increased tamoxifen potency. Similar results were obtained on the heteromeric Kv7.2 R463Q/Kv7.3 and Kv7.2 R463E/Kv7.3 channels, compared to Kv7.2/Kv7.3 WT. Overexpression of type 2A PI(4)P5-kinase (PIP5K 2A) significantly reduced tamoxifen inhibition of Kv7.2/Kv7.3 and Kv7.2 R463Q channels. Our results suggest that tamoxifen inhibited Kv7.2/Kv7.3 channels by interfering with PIP2-channel interaction because of its documented interaction with PIP2 and the similar effect of tamoxifen on various PIP2 sensitive channels.

Spiral MR fingerprinting at 7T with simultaneous B1 estimation.

PubMed

Buonincontri, Guido; Schulte, Rolf F; Cosottini, Mirco; Tosetti, Michela

2017-09-01

Magnetic resonance fingerprinting is an efficient, new approach for quantitative imaging with MR. We aimed to extend this technique to cases with B1+ inhomogeneities within the imaging volume. Previous approaches have used abrupt changes in flip angles to estimate the B1+ field simultaneously with T1 and T2, using a Cartesian approach in a small-animal scanner at 4.7T. Here, we evaluated whether a similar approach would be suitable for imaging human brains using spiral readouts with a 7T scanner. We found that our modified scheme could significantly reduce the adverse effects of B1+ inhomogeneities even in extreme cases, reducing both the bias and the variance in T2 estimations by an order of magnitude when compared to literature methods. Acquisitions used less than 1.5W/kg SAR and could be performed in 12s per slice. In conclusion, our approach can be used to perform quantitative imaging of the brain at 7T in a short time, simultaneously estimating the B1+ profile. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

First Application of 7T Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Endoscopic Endonasal Surgery of Skull Base Tumors

PubMed Central

Barrett, Thomas F; Dyvorne, Hadrien A; Padormo, Francesco; Pawha, Puneet S; Delman, Bradley N; Shrivastava, Raj K; Balchandani, Priti

2018-01-01

Background Successful endoscopic endonasal surgery for the resection of skull base tumors is reliant on preoperative imaging to delineate pathology from the surrounding anatomy. The increased signal-to-noise ratio afforded by 7T MRI can be used to increase spatial and contrast resolution, which may lend itself to improved imaging of skull base. In this study, we apply a 7T imaging protocol to patients with skull base tumors and compare the images to clinical standard of care. Methods Images were acquired at 7T on 11 patients with skull base lesions. Two neuroradiologists evaluated clinical 1.5T, 3T, and 7T scans for detection of intracavernous cranial nerves and ICA branches. Detection rates were compared. Images were utilized for surgical planning and uploaded to a neuronavigation platform and used to guide surgery. Results Image analysis yielded improved detection rates of cranial nerves and ICA branches at 7T. 7T images were successfully incorporated into preoperative planning and intraoperative neuronavigation. Conclusion Our study represents the first application of 7T MRI to the full neurosurgical workflow for endoscopic endonasal surgery. We detected higher rates of cranial nerves and ICA branches at 7T MRI compared to 3T and 1.5 T, and found that integration of 7T into surgical planning and guidance was feasible. These results suggest a potential for 7T MRI to reduce surgical complications. Future studies comparing standardized 7T, 3T, and 1.5 T MRI protocols in a larger number of patients are warranted to determine the relative benefit of 7T MRI for endonasal endoscopic surgical efficacy. PMID:28359922

Quantitation of enantiomers of r-7,t-8,9,c-10-tetrahydroxy-7,8,9,10-tetrahydrobenzo[a]-pyrene in human urine: evidence supporting metabolic activation of benzo[a]pyrene via the bay region diol epoxide.

PubMed

Hecht, Stephen S; Hochalter, Jon Bradley

2014-09-01

Benzo[a]pyrene (BaP), a potent polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon carcinogen, is widely distributed in the human environment. All humans are exposed to BaP through the diet and contact with the general environment; cigarette smokers have higher exposure. An important pathway of BaP metabolism proceeds through formation of diol epoxides including the 'bay region diol epoxide' 7R,8S-dihydroxy-9S,10R-epoxy-7,8,9,10-tetrahydrobenzo[a]pyrene [BaP-(7R,8S)-diol-(9S,10R)-epoxide] and the 'reverse diol epoxide' 9S,10R-dihydroxy-7R,8S-epoxy-7,8,9,10-tetrahydrobenzo [a]pyrene [BaP-(9S,10R)-diol-(7R,8S)-epoxide]. The bay region diol epoxide is considered a major ultimate carcinogen of BaP based on studies in cell culture and laboratory animals, but the available data in humans are less convincing. The bay region diol epoxide and the reverse diol epoxide react with H2O to produce enantiomeric BaP-tetraols that are excreted in the urine. We used chiral stationary-phase high-performance liquid chromatography and gas chromatography-negative ion chemical ionisation-tandem mass spectrometry to quantify these enantiomeric BaP-tetraols in the urine of 25 smokers and 25 non-smokers. The results demonstrated that the BaP-tetraol enantiomer representing the carcinogenic bay region diol epoxide pathway accounted for 68±6% (range 56-81%) of total BaP-tetraol in smokers and 64±6% (range 46-78%) in non-smokers. Levels of the major BaP-tetraol enantiomer decreased by 75% in smokers who quit smoking. These data provide convincing evidence in support of the bay region diol epoxide mechanism of BaP carcinogenesis in humans. © The Author 2014. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the UK Environmental Mutagen Society. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Etude du comportement et de la modélisation viscoplastique du zircaloy 4recristallisé sous chargements monotones et cycliques uni et multiaxes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Delobelle, P.; Robinet, P.

1994-08-01

The results of experiment performed on a recrystallized zircaloy 4 alloy in the intermediate temperature domain 20 leqslant T leqslant 400 ^{circ}C are presented. To characterize the anisotropy, especially at 350 ^{circ}C, the tests were made under both monotonic and cyclic uni- and bidirectional loadings, i.e. tension-compression, tension-torsion and tension-internal pressure tests. The different anisotropy coefficients and especially R^p = \\varepsilon^p_{θθ} /\\varepsilon^ p _ {{^-_-}{^-_-} } seem to be temperature independent. An important feature of the behavior of this alloy in the neighbourhood of 300 ^{circ}C is attributed to the dislocations-point defects interactions (dynamic strain aging), phenomena often observed in the solid solutions. For the 2D cyclic non proportional loadings it is shown that a weak supplementary hardening appears, which is a function of the degree of the phase lag. We propose to particularize and to apply a unified viscoplastic model with internal variables to the considered alloy, as the model as already been developed and identified elsewhere for other isotropic materials. From a general point of view the introduction of the anisotropy in the model is made by four tensors of rank 4 ; [ M] is assigned to the flow directions, [ N] to the linear parts of the kinematical hardening variables and [ Q] , [ R] respectively to the dynamic and static recoveries of these tensorial variables. This phenomenological formulation leads to a correct representation of the set of the experimental results presented at 350 ^{circ}C, which provides an a posteriori confirmation of the formalism used. On étudie, entre 20 et 400 ^{circ}C, à l'aide d'essais sous chargements multiaxiaux monotones et cycliques (traction, torsion et pression interne) les propriétés viscoplastiques anisotropes de tube de zircaloy 4 recristallisé. A la température de 350 ^{circ}C, l'anisotropie a été quantifiée de façon détaillée. Les quelques résultats obtenus

Functional Human α7 Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor (nAChR) Generated from Escherichia coli.

PubMed

Tillman, Tommy S; Alvarez, Frances J D; Reinert, Nathan J; Liu, Chuang; Wang, Dawei; Xu, Yan; Xiao, Kunhong; Zhang, Peijun; Tang, Pei

2016-08-26

Human Cys-loop receptors are important therapeutic targets. High-resolution structures are essential for rational drug design, but only a few are available due to difficulties in obtaining sufficient quantities of protein suitable for structural studies. Although expression of proteins in E. coli offers advantages of high yield, low cost, and fast turnover, this approach has not been thoroughly explored for full-length human Cys-loop receptors because of the conventional wisdom that E. coli lacks the specific chaperones and post-translational modifications potentially required for expression of human Cys-loop receptors. Here we report the successful production of full-length wild type human α7nAChR from E. coli Chemically induced chaperones promote high expression levels of well-folded proteins. The choice of detergents, lipids, and ligands during purification determines the final protein quality. The purified α7nAChR not only forms pentamers as imaged by negative-stain electron microscopy, but also retains pharmacological characteristics of native α7nAChR, including binding to bungarotoxin and positive allosteric modulators specific to α7nAChR. Moreover, the purified α7nAChR injected into Xenopus oocytes can be activated by acetylcholine, choline, and nicotine, inhibited by the channel blockers QX-222 and phencyclidine, and potentiated by the α7nAChR specific modulators PNU-120596 and TQS. The successful generation of functional human α7nAChR from E. coli opens a new avenue for producing mammalian Cys-loop receptors to facilitate structure-based rational drug design. © 2016 by The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.

A bacteriophage T7 RNA polymerase/promoter system for controlled exclusive expression of specific genes.

PubMed Central

Tabor, S; Richardson, C C

1985-01-01

The RNA polymerase gene of bacteriophage T7 has been cloned into the plasmid pBR322 under the inducible control of the lambda PL promoter. After induction, T7 RNA polymerase constitutes 20% of the soluble protein of Escherichia coli, a 200-fold increase over levels found in T7-infected cells. The overproduced enzyme has been purified to homogeneity. During extraction the enzyme is sensitive to a specific proteolysis, a reaction that can be prevented by a modification of lysis conditions. The specificity of T7 RNA polymerase for its own promoters, combined with the ability to inhibit selectively the host RNA polymerase with rifampicin, permits the exclusive expression of genes under the control of a T7 RNA polymerase promoter. We describe such a coupled system and its use to express high levels of phage T7 gene 5 protein, a subunit of T7 DNA polymerase. Images PMID:3156376

Antibody modified gold nanoparticles for fast and selective, colorimetric T7 bacteriophage detection.

PubMed

Lesniewski, Adam; Los, Marcin; Jonsson-Niedziółka, Martin; Krajewska, Anna; Szot, Katarzyna; Los, Joanna M; Niedziolka-Jonsson, Joanna

2014-04-16

Herein, we report a colorimetric immunosensor for T7 bacteriophage based on gold nanoparticles modified with covalently bonded anti-T7 antibodies. The new immunosensor allows for a fast, simple, and selective detection of T7 virus. T7 virions form immunological complexes with the antibody modified gold nanoparticles which causes them to aggregate. The aggregation can be observed with the naked eye as a color change from red to purple, as well as with a UV-vis spectrophotometer. The aggregate formation was confirmed with SEM imaging. Sensor selectivity against the M13 bacteriophage was demonstrated. The limit of detection (LOD) is 1.08 × 10(10) PFU/mL (18 pM) T7. The new method was compared with a traditional plaque test. In contrast to biological tests the colorimetric method allows for detection of all T7 phages, not only those biologically active. This includes phage ghosts and fragments of virions. T7 virus has been chosen as a model organism for adenoviruses. The described method has several advantages over the traditional ones. It is much faster than a standard plaque test. It is more robust since no bacteria-virus interactions are utilized in the detection process. Since antibodies are available for a large variety of pathogenic viruses, the described concept is very flexible and can be adapted to detect many different viruses, not only bacteriophages. Contrary to the classical immunoassays, it is a one-step detection method, and no additional amplification, e.g., enzymatic, is needed to read the result.

Amplified 7q21-22 gene MCM7 and its intronic miR-25 suppress COL1A2 associated genes to sustain intestinal gastric cancer features.

PubMed

Tamilzhalagan, Sembulingam; Rathinam, Dhanasekaran; Ganesan, Kumaresan

2017-06-01

Frequent amplification of 7q21-22 genomic region is known in gastric cancer. Multiple genes including SHFM1, MCM7, and COL1A2 were reported to be the potential cancer candidate genes of this 20 Mb amplicon. This amplicon has two polycistrionic miRNA clusters and in the present study, miR-106b-25 cluster located in intron-13 of MCM7 was identified to express in gastric tumors. Among the 7q21-22 candidate genes, SHFM1 and MCM7 are expressed in intestinal type gastric tumors, whereas COL1A2 is expressed in diffuse type gastric tumors. Across gastric tumors, miR-25 was identified to co-express with MCM7 and SHFM1. On the other hand, negative correlation was observed between miR-25 and COL1A2 expression. miR-25 originating from MCM7 was found capable of selectively targeting the adjacent gene COL1A2. Silencing of miR-25 was found capable of elevating the expression of COL1A2 and inhibiting E-cadherin expression, revealing the diffuse type gastric cancer suppressive role conferred by miR-25. miR-25 was also found to suppress p53, and activate c-Src revealing its intestinal type gastric cancer associated oncogenic functions. Genome-wide expression profiling upon miR-25 silencing reveals that miR-25 is capable of suppressing 40 genes which are co-expressed with COL1A2, involved in epithelial to mesenchymal transition and angiogenesis which are the typical diffuse type gastric cancer features. The results clearly demonstrate 7q21-22 amplification, MCM7, and its intronic miR-25 are the major molecular switches involved in the complex oncogenic circuits of gastric cancer. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Association between IL7R polymorphisms and severe liver disease in HIV/HCV coinfected patients: a cross-sectional study.

PubMed

Guzmán-Fulgencio, María; Berenguer, Juan; Jiménez-Sousa, María A; Pineda-Tenor, Daniel; Aldámiz-Echevarria, Teresa; García-Broncano, Pilar; Carrero, Ana; García-Álvarez, Mónica; Tejerina, Francisco; Diez, Cristina; Vazquez-Morón, Sonia; Resino, Salvador

2015-06-30

Interleukin-7 (IL-7) is a critical factor for T cell development and for maintaining and restoring homeostasis of mature T cells. Polymorphisms at α-chain of the IL-7 receptor (IL7R or CD127) gene are related to evolution of HIV-infection, but there are no data concerning the evolution of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. The aim of this study was to analyze the association between IL7R polymorphisms and severe liver disease in HCV/HIV coinfected patients. We performed a cross-sectional study in 220 naïve patients who underwent a liver biopsy. IL7R polymorphisms (rs6897932, rs987106 and rs3194051) were genotyped using the GoldenGate(®) assay. The outcome variables were: (a) liver biopsy: advanced fibrosis (F ≥ 3), severe activity grade (A3); (b) non-invasive indexes: advanced fibrosis (APRI ≥1.5 and FIB-4 ≥3.25). Logistic regression analysis was used to investigate the association between IL7R polymorphisms and outcome variables. This test gives the differences between groups and the odds ratio (OR) for liver disease. Patients with rs6897932 CC genotype had higher likelihood of having A3 than patients with rs6897932 CT/TT (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 4.16; p = 0.026). Patients with rs987106 TT genotype had higher odds of having F ≥ 3 (aOR = 3.09; p = 0.009) than rs987106 AA/AT carriers. Finally, patients with rs3194051 AA genotype had higher odds of having severe liver fibrosis (F ≥ 3; APRI ≥1.5, and FIB4 ≥3.25) than patients with rs3194051 AG/GG genotype [aOR = 2.73 (p = 0.010); aOR = 2.52 (p = 0.029); and aOR = 4.01 (p = 0.027); respectively]. The CTA haplotype (comprised of rs6897932, rs987106, and rs3194051) carriers had higher odds of having F ≥ 3 (aOR = 1.85; p = 0.012), APRI ≥1.5 (aOR = 1.94; p = 0.023), and FIB4 ≥3.25 (aOR = 2.47; p = 0.024). Conversely, the CAG haplotype carriers had lower odds of having F ≥ 3 (aOR = 0.48; p = 0.011), APRI ≥1.5 (aOR = 0.48; p = 0.029), and FIB4 ≥3.25 (aOR = 0.29; p = 0.010). The presence of IL

Tumor Regression and Delayed Onset Toxicity Following B7-H4 CAR T Cell Therapy

PubMed Central

Smith, Jenessa B; Lanitis, Evripidis; Dangaj, Denarda; Buza, Elizabeth; Poussin, Mathilde; Stashwick, Caitlin; Scholler, Nathalie; Powell, Daniel J

2016-01-01

B7-H4 protein is frequently overexpressed in ovarian cancer. Here, we engineered T cells with novel B7-H4-specific chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) that recognized both human and murine B7-H4 to test the hypothesis that B7-H4 CAR T cell therapy can be applied safely in preclinical models. B7-H4 CAR T cells specifically secreted IFN-γ and lysed B7-H4(+) targets. In vivo, B7-H4 CAR T cells displayed antitumor reactivity against B7-H4(+) human ovarian tumor xenografts. Unexpectedly, B7-H4 CAR T cell treatment reproducibly showed delayed, lethal toxicity 6–8 weeks after therapy. Comprehensive assessment of murine B7-H4 protein distribution uncovered expression in ductal and mucosal epithelial cells in normal tissues. Postmortem analysis revealed the presence of widespread histologic lesions that correlated with B7-H4(+) expression, and were inconsistent with graft versus host disease. Lastly, expression patterns of B7-H4 protein in normal human tissue were comparable to distribution in mice, advancing our understanding of B7-H4. We conclude that B7-H4 CAR therapy mediates control of cancer outgrowth. However, long-term engraftment of B7-H4 CAR T cells mediates lethal, off-tumor toxicity that is likely due to wide expression of B7-H4 in healthy mouse organs. This model system provides a unique opportunity for preclinical evaluation of safety approaches that limit CAR-mediated toxicity after tumor destruction in vivo. PMID:27439899

Effects of tocotrienols on cell viability and apoptosis in normal murine liver cells (BNL CL.2) and liver cancer cells (BNL 1ME A.7R.1), in vitro.

PubMed

Har, Chan Hooi; Keong, Chan Kok

2005-01-01

The effects of tocotrienols on murine liver cell viability and their apoptotic events were studied over a dose range of 0-32 microg mL(-1). Normal murine liver cells (BNL CL.2) and murine liver cancer cells (BNL 1ME A.7R.1) were treated with tocotrienols (T(3)), alpha tocopherol (alpha-T) and the chemo drug, Doxorubicin (Doxo, as a positive control). Cell viability assay showed that T(3) significantly (P < or = 0.05) lowered the percentage of BNL 1ME A.7R.1 cell viability in a dose-responsive manner (8-16 microg mL(-1)), whereas T did not show any significant (P>0.05) inhibition in cell viability with increasing treatment doses of 0-16 microg mL(-1). The IC(50) for tocotrienols were 9.8, 8.9, 8.1, 9.7, 8.1 and 9.3 microg mL(-1) at 12, 24, 36, 48, 60 and 72 hours respectively. Early apoptosis was detected 6 hours following T(3) treatment of BNL 1ME A.7R.1 liver cancer cells, using Annexin V-FITC fluorescence microscopy assay for apoptosis, but none were observed for the non-treated liver cancer cells at the average IC(50) of 8.98 microg mL(-1) tocotrienols for liver cancer cells. Several apoptotic bodies were detected in BNL 1ME A.7R.1 liver cancer cells at 6 hours post-treatment with tocotrienols (8.98 microg mL(-1)) using Acridine Orange/Propidium Iodide fluorescence assay. However, only a couple of apoptotic bodies were seen in the non-treated liver cancer cells and the BNL CL.2 normal liver cells. Some mitotic bodies were also observed in the T(3)-treated BNL 1ME A.7R.1 liver cancer cells but were not seen in the untreated BNL 1ME A.7R.1 cells and the BNL CL.2 liver cells. Following T(3)-treatment (8.98 microg mL(-1)) of the BNL 1ME A.7R.1 liver cancer cells, 24.62%, 25.53% and 44.90% of the cells showed elevated active caspase 3 activity at 9, 12 and 24 hours treatment period, respectively. DNA laddering studies indicated DNA fragmentation occurred in the T(3)-treated liver cancer cells, BNL 1ME A.7R.1 but not in non-treated liver cancer cells and the T(3

Modulation of let-7 miRNAs controls the differentiation of effector CD8 T cells

PubMed Central

Wells, Alexandria C; Daniels, Keith A; Angelou, Constance C; Fagerberg, Eric; Burnside, Amy S; Markstein, Michele; Alfandari, Dominique; Welsh, Raymond M; Pobezinskaya, Elena L; Pobezinsky, Leonid A

2017-01-01

The differentiation of naive CD8 T cells into effector cytotoxic T lymphocytes upon antigen stimulation is necessary for successful antiviral, and antitumor immune responses. Here, using a mouse model, we describe a dual role for the let-7 microRNAs in the regulation of CD8 T cell responses, where maintenance of the naive phenotype in CD8 T cells requires high levels of let-7 expression, while generation of cytotoxic T lymphocytes depends upon T cell receptor-mediated let-7 downregulation. Decrease of let-7 expression in activated T cells enhances clonal expansion and the acquisition of effector function through derepression of the let-7 targets, including Myc and Eomesodermin. Ultimately, we have identified a novel let-7-mediated mechanism, which acts as a molecular brake controlling the magnitude of CD8 T cell responses. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.26398.001 PMID:28737488

Les fractures luxations du cotyle: prise en charge et pronostic à long terme; étude rétrospective portant sur 40 cas

PubMed Central

Chagou, Aniss; Hmouri, Ismail; Rhanim, Abdelkarim; Lahlou, Abdou; Berrada, Mohammed Saleh; Yaacoubi, Moradh

2014-01-01

Les fractures luxations du cotyle sont le plus souvent dues à des traumatismes de haute énergie. Elles constituent une urgence thérapeutique, l'association de la luxation à une fracture du cotyle fait apparaître la question du choix thérapeutique entre traitement orthopédique et traitement médical. L'objectif de l’étude est de mettre le point sur l'aspect thérapeutique dans ces lésions mais aussi leurs pronostics à long terme. Nous rapportons une étude rétrospective portant sur 40 cas colligés au service d'orthopédie du centre hospitalier universitaire de Rabat. Nous avons évalué les résultats de notre prise en charge mais aussi le pronostic à court et à long terme. Dans notre série, vingt cinq patients ont bénéficié d'un traitement orthopédique alors que les quinze restants ont été opérés, la voie d'abord la plus utilisée est la voie postérieure. Les résultats fonctionnels ont été évalués, après un recul de 3 à 8 ans, selon la cotation de Merle d'Aubigné. Nous avons obtenu 90% de résultats satisfaisants. La comparaison de nos résultats à ceux de la littérature montre que le résultat des traitements orthopédiques et chirurgicaux dépend essentiellement du type de fracture. Le pronostic à long terme reste imprévisible. La survenue des complications tardives telle que la nécrose céphalique et de l'arthrose reste toujours imprévisible, ce qui impose un suivi régulier et prolongé des patients. PMID:25722763

7. Historic American Buildings Survey Nathaniel R. Ewan, Photographer May ...

Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

7. Historic American Buildings Survey Nathaniel R. Ewan, Photographer May 24, 1938 INTERIOR - FIREPLACE DETAIL - LIVING ROOM #2 - Boudinot Mansion, 1073 East Jersey Avenue, Elizabeth, Union County, NJ

Measurement of T1 of human arterial and venous blood at 7T.

PubMed

Rane, Swati D; Gore, John C

2013-04-01

Techniques for measuring cerebral perfusion require accurate longitudinal relaxation (T1) of blood, an MRI parameter that is field dependent. T1 of arterial and venous human blood was measured at 7T using three different sources - pathology laboratory, blood bank and in vivo. The T1 of venous blood was measured from sealed samples from a pathology lab and in vivo. Samples from a blood bank were oxygenated and mixed to obtain different physiological concentrations of hematocrit and oxygenation. T1 relaxation times were estimated using a three-point fit to a simple inversion recovery equation. At 37°C, the T1 of blood at arterial pO2 was 2.29±0.1s and 2.07±0.12 at venous pO2. The in vivo T1 of venous blood, in three subjects, was slightly longer at 2.45±0.11s. T1 of arterial and venous blood at 7T was measured and found to be significantly different. The T1 values were longer in vivo than in vitro. While the exact cause for the discrepancy is unknown, the additives in the blood samples, degradation during experiment, oxygenation differences, and the non-stagnant nature of blood in vivo could be potential contributors to the lower values of T1 in the venous samples. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Expression of alkyl hydroperoxide reductase is regulated negatively by OxyR1 and positively by RpoE2 sigma factor in Azospirillum brasilense Sp7.

PubMed

Singh, Sudhir; Dwivedi, Susheel Kumar; Singh, Vijay Shankar; Tripathi, Anil Kumar

2016-10-01

OxyR proteins are LysR-type transcriptional regulators, which play an important role in responding to oxidative stress in bacteria. Azospirillum brasilense Sp7 harbours two copies of OxyR. The inactivation of the oxyR1, the gene organized divergently to ahpC in A. brasilense Sp7, led to an increased tolerance to alkyl hydroperoxides, which was corroborated by an increase in alkyl hydroperoxide reductase (AhpC) activity, enhanced expression of ahpC :lacZ fusion and increased synthesis of AhpC protein in the oxyR1::km mutant. The upstream region of ahpC promoter harboured a putative OxyR binding site, T-N11-A. Mutation of T, A or both in the T-N11-Amotif caused derepression of ahpC in A. brasilense suggesting that T-N11-A might be the binding site for a negative regulator. Retardation of the electrophoretic mobility of the T-N11-A motif harbouring oxyR1-ahpC intergenic DNA by recombinant OxyR1, under reducing as well as oxidizing conditions, indicated that OxyR1 acts as a negative regulator of ahpC in A. brasilense. Sequence of the promoter of ahpC, predicted on the basis of transcriptional start site, and an enhanced expression of ahpC:lacZ fusion in chrR2::km mutant background suggested that ahpC promoter was RpoE2 dependent. Thus, this study shows that in A. brasilense Sp7, ahpC expression is regulated negatively by OxyR1 but is regulated positively by RpoE2, an oxidative-stress-responsive sigma factor. It also shows that OxyR1 regulates the expression RpoE1, which is known to play an important role during photooxidative stress in A. brasilense.

Interleukin-7 negatively regulates the development of mature T cells in fetal thymus organ cultures.

PubMed

DeLuca, Dominick; Clark, Dawn R

2002-05-01

We added antibody specific for interleukin-7 (IL-7) to chimeric fetal thymus organ cultures (FTOC) to investigate the involvement of this cytokine at distinct stages of T cell development. We report that the neutralization of IL-7 early in fetal T cell development results in a decrease in the production of mature CD4 or CD8 ('single positive', SP) or CD4/8 negative ('double negative', DN) T cell phenotypes, as defined by their expression of CD3. This loss of T cell development was not complete, but it did include the development of gammadelta T cells. However, if IL-7 was neutralized at later stages of FTOC, the production of CD4/8 positive ('double positive', DP) T cells was increased, and if the addition of the antibody was delayed further, the production of mature SP T cells was increased. This last result could be extended to both alphabeta and gammadelta T cells. These data suggested that IL-7 played a negative regulatory role in the development of progressively mature T cells. Tissue sections of FTOC showed that IL-7 was expressed in the subcapsular region of the tissue where immature T cells reside. However, IL-7 was not detected in the medullary region where mature T cells are located. These data suggest that IL-7 not only supports the development of immature fetal T cells, but it may inhibit the development of mature T cells. The production of mature fetal T cells may, therefore, be delayed until their precursors enter the medullary microenvironment, where IL-7 production is low. In this way, T cells may be prevented from maturing until negative selection or anergy events eliminate or inactivate autoreactive clones.

Library of synthetic transcriptional AND gates built with split T7 RNA polymerase mutants

PubMed Central

Shis, David L.; Bennett, Matthew R.

2013-01-01

The construction of synthetic gene circuits relies on our ability to engineer regulatory architectures that are orthogonal to the host’s native regulatory pathways. However, as synthetic gene circuits become larger and more complicated, we are limited by the small number of parts, especially transcription factors, that work well in the context of the circuit. The current repertoire of transcription factors consists of a limited selection of activators and repressors, making the implementation of transcriptional logic a complicated and component-intensive process. To address this, we modified bacteriophage T7 RNA polymerase (T7 RNAP) to create a library of transcriptional AND gates for use in Escherichia coli by first splitting the protein and then mutating the DNA recognition domain of the C-terminal fragment to alter its promoter specificity. We first demonstrate that split T7 RNAP is active in vivo and compare it with full-length enzyme. We then create a library of mutant split T7 RNAPs that have a range of activities when used in combination with a complimentary set of altered T7-specific promoters. Finally, we assay the two-input function of both wild-type and mutant split T7 RNAPs and find that regulated expression of the N- and C-terminal fragments of the split T7 RNAPs creates AND logic in each case. This work demonstrates that mutant split T7 RNAP can be used as a transcriptional AND gate and introduces a unique library of components for use in synthetic gene circuits. PMID:23479654

Library of synthetic transcriptional AND gates built with split T7 RNA polymerase mutants.

PubMed

Shis, David L; Bennett, Matthew R

2013-03-26

The construction of synthetic gene circuits relies on our ability to engineer regulatory architectures that are orthogonal to the host's native regulatory pathways. However, as synthetic gene circuits become larger and more complicated, we are limited by the small number of parts, especially transcription factors, that work well in the context of the circuit. The current repertoire of transcription factors consists of a limited selection of activators and repressors, making the implementation of transcriptional logic a complicated and component-intensive process. To address this, we modified bacteriophage T7 RNA polymerase (T7 RNAP) to create a library of transcriptional AND gates for use in Escherichia coli by first splitting the protein and then mutating the DNA recognition domain of the C-terminal fragment to alter its promoter specificity. We first demonstrate that split T7 RNAP is active in vivo and compare it with full-length enzyme. We then create a library of mutant split T7 RNAPs that have a range of activities when used in combination with a complimentary set of altered T7-specific promoters. Finally, we assay the two-input function of both wild-type and mutant split T7 RNAPs and find that regulated expression of the N- and C-terminal fragments of the split T7 RNAPs creates AND logic in each case. This work demonstrates that mutant split T7 RNAP can be used as a transcriptional AND gate and introduces a unique library of components for use in synthetic gene circuits.

First Application of 7-T Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Endoscopic Endonasal Surgery of Skull Base Tumors.

PubMed

Barrett, Thomas F; Dyvorne, Hadrien A; Padormo, Francesco; Pawha, Puneet S; Delman, Bradley N; Shrivastava, Raj K; Balchandani, Priti

2017-07-01

Successful endoscopic endonasal surgery for the resection of skull base tumors is reliant on preoperative imaging to delineate pathology from the surrounding anatomy. The increased signal-to-noise ratio afforded by 7-T MRI can be used to increase spatial and contrast resolution, which may lend itself to improved imaging of the skull base. In this study, we apply a 7-T imaging protocol to patients with skull base tumors and compare the images with clinical standard of care. Images were acquired at 7 T on 11 patients with skull base lesions. Two neuroradiologists evaluated clinical 1.5-, 3-, and 7-T scans for detection of intracavernous cranial nerves and internal carotid artery (ICA) branches. Detection rates were compared. Images were used for surgical planning and uploaded to a neuronavigation platform and used to guide surgery. Image analysis yielded improved detection rates of cranial nerves and ICA branches at 7 T. The 7-T images were successfully incorporated into preoperative planning and intraoperative neuronavigation. Our study represents the first application of 7-T MRI to the full neurosurgical workflow for endoscopic endonasal surgery. We detected higher rates of cranial nerves and ICA branches at 7-T MRI compared with 3- and 1.5-T MRI, and found that integration of 7 T into surgical planning and guidance was feasible. These results suggest a potential for 7-T MRI to reduce surgical complications. Future studies comparing standardized 7-, 3-, and 1.5-T MRI protocols in a larger number of patients are warranted to determine the relative benefit of 7-T MRI for endonasal endoscopic surgical efficacy. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

IL-7 signaling imparts polyfunctionality and stemness potential to CD4+ T cells

PubMed Central

Ding, Zhi-Chun; Liu, Chufeng; Cao, Yang; Habtetsion, Tsadik; Kuczma, Michal; Pi, Wenhu; Kong, Heng; Cacan, Ercan; Greer, Susanna F.; Cui, Yan; Blazar, Bruce R.; Munn, David H.; Zhou, Gang

2016-01-01

ABSTRACT The functional status of CD4+ T cells is a critical determinant of antitumor immunity. Polyfunctional CD4+ T cells possess the ability to concomitantly produce multiple Th1-type cytokines, exhibiting a functional attribute desirable for cancer immunotherapy. However, the mechanisms by which these cells are induced are neither defined nor it is clear if these cells can be used therapeutically to treat cancer. Here, we report that CD4+ T cells exposed to exogenous IL-7 during antigenic stimulation can acquire a polyfunctional phenotype, characterized by their ability to simultaneously express IFNγ, IL-2, TNFα and granzyme B. This IL-7-driven polyfunctional phenotype was associated with increased histone acetylation in the promoters of the effector genes, indicative of increased chromatin accessibility. Moreover, forced expression of a constitutively active (CA) form of STAT5 recapitulated IL-7 in inducing CD4+ T-cell polyfunctionality. Conversely, the expression of a dominant negative (DN) form of STAT5 abolished the ability of IL-7 to induce polyfunctional CD4+ T cells. These in-vitro-generated polyfunctional CD4+ T cells can traffic to tumor and expand intratumorally in response to immunization. Importantly, adoptive transfer of polyfunctional CD4+ T cells following lymphodepletive chemotherapy was able to eradicate large established tumors. This beneficial outcome was associated with the occurrence of antigen epitope spreading, activation of the endogenous CD8+ T cells and persistence of donor CD4+ T cells exhibiting memory stem cell attributes. These findings indicate that IL-7 signaling can impart polyfunctionality and stemness potential to CD4+ T cells, revealing a previously unknown property of IL-7 that can be exploited in adoptive T-cell immunotherapy. PMID:27471650

alpha(4)beta(7) independent pathway for CD8(+) T cell-mediated intestinal immunity to rotavirus.

PubMed

Kuklin, N A; Rott, L; Darling, J; Campbell, J J; Franco, M; Feng, N; Müller, W; Wagner, N; Altman, J; Butcher, E C; Greenberg, H B

2000-12-01

Rotavirus (RV), which replicates exclusively in cells of the small intestine, is the most important cause of severe diarrhea in young children worldwide. Using a mouse model, we show that expression of the intestinal homing integrin alpha(4)ss(7) is not essential for CD8(+) T cells to migrate to the intestine or provide immunity to RV. Mice deficient in ss7 expression (ss7(-/-)) and unable to express alpha(4)ss(7) integrin were found to clear RV as quickly as wild-type (wt) animals. Depletion of CD8(+) T cells in ss7(-/-) animals prolonged viral shedding, and transfer of immune ss7(-/-) CD8(+) T cells into chronically infected Rag-2-deficient mice resolved RV infection as efficiently as wt CD8(+) T cells. Paradoxically, alpha(4)ss(7)(hi) memory CD8(+) T cells purified from wt mice that had been orally immunized cleared RV more efficiently than alpha(4)ss(7)(low) CD8(+) T cells. We explained this apparent contradiction by demonstrating that expression of alpha(4)ss(7) on effector CD8(+) T cells depends upon the site of initial antigen exposure: oral immunization generates RV-specific CD8(+) T cells primarily of an alpha(4)ss(7)(hi) phenotype, but subcutaneous immunization yields both alpha(4)ss(7)(hi) and alpha(4)ss(7)(low) immune CD8(+) T cells with anti-RV effector capabilities. Thus, alpha(4)ss(7) facilitates normal intestinal immune trafficking to the gut, but it is not required for effective CD8(+) T cell immunity.

Facteurs de risque de mortalité chez les nouveaux-nés transférés au service de néonatologie de l'Hôpital Jason Sendwe de Lubumbashi, République Démocratique du Congo

PubMed Central

Katamea, Tina; Mukuku, Olivier; Kamona, Lewis; Mukelenge, Kethye; Mbula, Otikeke; Baledi, Lambert; Ntambwe, Emile; Mutombo, Augustin Mulangu; Wembonyama, Stanis Okitotsho; Luboya, Oscar Numbi

2014-01-01

Introduction La mortalité néonatale reste préoccupante dans notre milieu et plusieurs facteurs dont ceux liés à l'organisation du transfert de nouveau-nés au niveau des structures de prise en charge y contribuent. Les objectifs de notre étude sont de déterminer la fréquence du transfert néonatal extrahospitalier à l'unité de néonatologie et identifier les facteurs de risque de mortalité dans notre milieu. Méthodes Il s'agit d'une étude prospective et analytique menée sur une période de douze mois allant du 1er Janvier 2012 au 31 décembre 2012 ayant ciblé tous les nouveau-nés transférés des maternités extérieurs, traités et suivis dans le service de néonatologie de l'hôpital Sendwe. Les caractéristiques maternelles (âge, parité, état-civil, profession, niveau d’étude, antécédents médicaux et toxicologiques) et perpartales (âge gestationnel, état de la poche des eaux, voie d'accouchement) et néonataux (âge lors du transfert, sexe, poids de naissance, moyen de transfert, motif de transfert et évolution (guérison ou décès)) ont été étudiés. La saisie et l'analyse des données ont été faites sur le logiciel Epi Info 2011 (version 7.0.8.3) et le seuil de signification de 5%. Résultats La fréquence du transfert néonatal extrahospitalier est de 12,9%. La mortalité était significativement liée à la profession (vendeuse ou travailleuse) de la mère (OR = 7,43 (1,38-39,97)), au niveau d’étude élevé (OR = 4,22 (1,18-15,10)), à l’âge gestationnel <37 SA (OR=3,21 (1,46-7,06)), à l’accouchement par voie basse de manière dystocique (OR=6,50 (1,54-27,38)), au sexe masculin du nouveau-né (OR=2,43 (1,08-5,46)), au poids de naissance <1500 grammes (OR=15,3 (5,73-40,78)) et à la prématurité comme motif de transfert (OR=5,56 (1,47-20,98)). Conclusion Le bilan de la mortalité néonatale est lourd dans les pays en développement où les nouveau-nés continuent de mourir pour des causes souvent évitables. La r

Classification of the venous architecture of the pineal gland by 7T MRI.

PubMed

Cho, Zang-Hee; Choi, Sang-Han; Chi, Je-Gun; Kim, Young-Bo

2011-10-01

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at 7.0 Tesla (7T) can show many details of anatomical structures with unprecedented resolution and contrast. In this report, we describe for the first time the unexpected wide variation in pineal gland structure, as visualized by MR images obtained with 7T in a group of healthy young volunteers. A total of 34 volunteers (22 men and 12 women) were enrolled in the study. Their 7T MR images revealed such wide variations in pineal gland shape that it led us to attempt to classify the patterns seen in these pineal glands. Indeed, they were successfully correlated with a previous human cadaver study of venous structures by Tamaki et al., who classified the venous structures of the pineal gland into three categories. This is the first human in vivo pineal vein imaging study using 7T MRI. Pineal venous imaging may permit the early diagnosis of a pineal tumor. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

An 8-channel transceiver 7-channel receive RF coil setup for high SNR ultrahigh-field MRI of the shoulder at 7T.

PubMed

Rietsch, Stefan H G; Pfaffenrot, Viktor; Bitz, Andreas K; Orzada, Stephan; Brunheim, Sascha; Lazik-Palm, Andrea; Theysohn, Jens M; Ladd, Mark E; Quick, Harald H; Kraff, Oliver

2017-12-01

In this work, we present an 8-channel transceiver (Tx/Rx) 7-channel receive (Rx) radiofrequency (RF) coil setup for 7 T ultrahigh-field MR imaging of the shoulder. A C-shaped 8-channel Tx/Rx coil was combined with an anatomically close-fitting 7-channel Rx-only coil. The safety and performance parameters of this coil setup were evaluated on the bench and in phantom experiments. The 7 T MR imaging performance of the shoulder RF coil setup was evaluated in in vivo measurements using a 3D DESS, a 2D PD-weighted TSE sequence, and safety supervision based on virtual observation points. Distinct SNR gain and acceleration capabilities provided by the additional 7-channel Rx-only coil were demonstrated in phantom and in vivo measurements. The power efficiency indicated good performance of each channel and a maximum B 1 + of 19 μT if the hardware RF power limits of the MR system were exploited. MR imaging of the shoulder was demonstrated with clinically excellent image quality and submillimeter spatial resolution. The presented 8-channel transceiver 7-channel receive RF coil setup was successfully applied for in vivo 7 T MRI of the shoulder providing a clear SNR gain vs the transceiver array without the additional receive array. Homogeneous images across the shoulder region were obtained using 8-channel subject-specific phase-only RF shimming. © 2017 American Association of Physicists in Medicine.

Prévalence du portage asymptomatique du plasmodium chez les donneurs bénévoles de sang à Kisangani, République Démocratique du Congo

PubMed Central

Bassandja, Jacques Ossinga; Agasa, Salomon Batina; Likwela, Joris Losimba

2014-01-01

Introduction Le paludisme transfusionnel est une réalité en Afrique Sub-saharienne, en raison des transfusions sanguines répétées, peu ou non contrôlées et où les donneurs sont en majorité potentiellement porteurs d'hématozoaires. L'objectif de cette étude était de déterminer la prévalence du portage asymptomatique du plasmodium chez les donneurs bénévoles de sang à Kisangani. Méthodes Une étude transversale a été menée au Centre Provincial de Transfusion Sanguine à Kisangani du 1er Décembre 2012 au 31 Mars 2013 et a concerné 480 donneurs bénévoles de sang. Résultats La prévalence du portage asymptomatique du plasmodium chez les donneurs bénévoles de sang était de 28,3%. Plasmodium falciparum était l'espèce la plus répandue (96,3%). Près de la moitié des donneurs avait une parasitémie supérieure à 2000 parasites/µl. Les facteurs qui étaient significativement associés à la parasitémie étaient le jeune âge, le 1er don, et la non utilisation de la moustiquaire imprégnée d'insecticide à longue durée (MILD). Conclusion Les résultats de cette étude montrent que la prévalence du portage asymptomatique du plasmodium chez les donneurs bénévoles de sang était élevée, constituant ainsi un risque important de transmission du parasite aux receveurs souvent en mauvais état général. Cependant, l'utilisation de la MILD et la fidélisation des donneurs bénévoles semblent constituer des moyens utiles de réduction du risque de portage asymptomatique du Plasmodium. Une sensibilisation et éventuellement des distributions ciblées de MILD aux donneurs, en particuliers les plus jeunes, pourraient réduire considérablement le portage du Plasmodium parmi les donneurs de sang et ainsi réduire le risque de paludisme transfusionnel. PMID:25328616

Immunization with M2e-Displaying T7 Bacteriophage Nanoparticles Protects against Influenza A Virus Challenge

PubMed Central

Hashemi, Hamidreza; Pouyanfard, Somayeh; Bandehpour, Mojgan; Noroozbabaei, Zahra; Kazemi, Bahram; Saelens, Xavier; Mokhtari-Azad, Talat

2012-01-01

Considering the emergence of highly pathogenic influenza viruses and threat of worldwide pandemics, there is an urgent need to develop broadly-protective influenza vaccines. In this study, we demonstrate the potential of T7 bacteriophage-based nanoparticles with genetically fused ectodomain of influenza A virus M2 protein (T7-M2e) as a candidate universal flu vaccine. Immunization of mice with non-adjuvanted T7-M2e elicited M2e-specific serum antibody responses that were similar in magnitude to those elicited by M2e peptide administered in Freund’s adjuvant. Comparable IgG responses directed against T7 phage capsomers were induced following vaccination with wild type T7 or T7-M2e. T7-M2e immunization induced balanced amounts of IgG1 and IgG2a antibodies and these antibodies specifically recognized native M2 on the surface of influenza A virus-infected mammalian cells. The frequency of IFN-γ-secreting T cells induced by T7-M2e nanoparticles was comparable to those elicited by M2e peptide emulsified in Freund’s adjuvant. Emulsification of T7-M2e nanoparticles in Freund’s adjuvant, however, induced a significantly stronger T cell response. Furthermore, T7-M2e-immunized mice were protected against lethal challenge with an H1N1 or an H3N2 virus, implying the induction of hetero-subtypic immunity in our mouse model. T7-M2e-immunized mice displayed considerable weight loss and had significantly reduced viral load in their lungs compared to controls. We conclude that display of M2e on the surface of T7 phage nanoparticles offers an efficient and economical opportunity to induce cross-protective M2e-based immunity against influenza A. PMID:23029232

Let-7b promotes alpaca hair growth via transcriptional repression of TGFβR I.

PubMed

Yan, Shen; Yu, Zhang; Ning, Liu; Hai-Dong, Wang; Jian-Shan, Xie; Shu-Yuan, Gao; Jia-Qi, Cheng; Xiu-Ju, Yu; Ting, Wang; Chang-Sheng, Dong; Xiao-Yan, He

2016-02-10

The young male alpaca ear and the back skins were used to investigate the effect of transforming growth factor receptor-β I (TGFβR I) on alpaca hair follicles and hair growth. The expression level and location of TGFβR I in alpaca ear and dorsal skin were detected through real-time quantitative PCR (RT-PCR) and paraffin section immunohistochemical technique (ICC-P). The results shown TGFβR I was lower expression in back skin compared to ear skin and the mean density of the positive reaction in ear skin was significantly higher than back skin. The targeted relationship with let-7b was detected using the dual-luciferase reporter vector of TGFβR I, which showed a significant target relationship between let-7b and TGFβR I. After transfection with let-7b eukaryotic expression vector, the relative mRNA expression of TGFβR I in alpaca skin fibroblasts did not differ, while the relative protein level was significantly decreased. In summary, a higher TGFβR I expression level in the ear skin suggests that TGFβR I may inhibit coat hair elongation. Further studies showed TGFβR I protein was downregulated by let-7b through transcriptional repression. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

46 CFR 35.40-7 - Carbon dioxide and clean agent alarms-T/ALL.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 46 Shipping 1 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Carbon dioxide and clean agent alarms-T/ALL. 35.40-7 Section 35.40-7 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY TANK VESSELS OPERATIONS Posting and Marking Requirements-TB/ALL § 35.40-7 Carbon dioxide and clean agent alarms—T/ALL. Each carbon dioxide or clean agent fire extinguishing alarm...

Loss of syd-1 from R7 Neurons Disrupts Two Distinct Phases of Presynaptic Development

PubMed Central

Holbrook, Scott; Finley, Jennifer K.; Lyons, Eric L.

2012-01-01

Genetic analyses in both worm and fly have identified the RhoGAP-like protein Syd-1 as a key positive regulator of presynaptic assembly. In worm, loss of syd-1 can be fully rescued by overexpressing wild-type Liprin-α, suggesting that the primary function of Syd-1 in this process is to recruit Liprin-α. We show that loss of syd-1 from Drosophila R7 photoreceptors causes two morphological defects that occur at distinct developmental time points. First, syd-1 mutant R7 axons often fail to form terminal boutons in their normal M6 target layer. Later, those mutant axons that do contact M6 often project thin extensions beyond it. We find that the earlier defect coincides with a failure to localize synaptic vesicles, suggesting that it reflects a failure in presynaptic assembly. We then analyze the relationship between syd-1 and Liprin-α in R7s. We find that loss of Liprin-α causes a stronger early R7 defect and provide a possible explanation for this disparity: we show that Liprin-α promotes Kinesin-3/Unc-104/Imac-mediated axon transport independently of Syd-1 and that Kinesin-3/Unc-104/Imac is required for normal R7 bouton formation. Unlike loss of syd-1, loss of Liprin-α does not cause late R7 extensions. We show that overexpressing Liprin-α partly rescues the early but not the late syd-1 mutant R7 defect. We therefore conclude that the two defects are caused by distinct molecular mechanisms. We find that Trio overexpression rescues both syd-1 defects and that trio and syd-1 have similar loss- and gain-of-function phenotypes, suggesting that the primary function of Syd-1 in R7s may be to promote Trio activity. PMID:23238725

Lack of chemopreventive effects of P2X7R inhibitors against pancreatic cancer

PubMed Central

Mohammed, Altaf; Janakiram, Naveena B.; Madka, Venkateshwar; Pathuri, Gopal; Li, Qian; Ritchie, Rebekah; Biddick, Laura; Kutche, Hannah; Zhang, Yuting; Singh, Anil; Gali, Hariprasad; Lightfoot, Stan; Steele, Vernon E.; Suen, Chen S.; Rao, Chinthalapally V.

2017-01-01

Pancreatic cancer (PC) is an almost uniformly lethal disease with inflammation playing an important role in its progression. Sustained stimulation of purinergic receptor P2X7 drives induction of NLRP inflammasome activation. To understand the role of P2X7 receptor and inflammasome, we performed transcriptomic analysis of p48Cre/+-LSL-KrasG12D/+ mice pancreatic tumors by next generation sequencing. Results showed that P2X7R's key inflammasome components, IL-1β and caspase-1 are highly expressed (p < 0.05) in pancreatic tumors. Hence, to target P2X7R, we tested effects of two P2X7R antagonists, A438079 and AZ10606120, on pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasms (PanINs) and their progression to PC in p48Cre/+-LSL-KrasG12D/+ mice. Following dose optimization studies, for chemoprevention efficacy, six-week-old p48Cre/+-LSL-KrasG12D/+ mice (24–36/group) were fed modified AIN-76A diets containing 0, 50 or 100 ppm A438079 and AZ10606120 for 38 weeks. Pancreata were collected, weighed, and evaluated for PanINs and PDAC. Control diet-fed male mice showed 50% PDAC incidence. Dietary A438079 and AZ10606120 showed 60% PDAC incidence. A marginal increase of PanIN 3 (carcinoma in-situ) was observed in drug-treated mice. Importantly, the carcinoma spread in untreated mice was 24% compared to 43–53% in treatment groups. Reduced survival rates were observed in mice exposed to P2X7R inhibitors. Both drugs showed a decrease in caspase-3, caspase-1, p21 and Cdc25c. Dietary A438079 showed modest inhibition of P2X7R, NLRP3, and IL-33, whereas AZ10606120 had no effects. In summary, targeting the P2X7R pathway by A438079 and AZ10606120 failed to show chemopreventive effects against PC and slightly enhanced PanIN progression to PDAC. Hence, caution is needed while treating high-risk individuals with P2X7R inhibitors. PMID:29228654

Evaluation of non-selective refocusing pulses for 7 T MRI

PubMed Central

Moore, Jay; Jankiewicz, Marcin; Anderson, Adam W.; Gore, John C.

2011-01-01

There is a continuing need for improved RF pulses that achieve proper refocusing in the context of ultra-high field (≥ 7 T) human MRI. Simple block or sinc pulses are highly susceptible to RF field inhomogeneities, and adiabatic pulses are generally considered too SAR intensive for practical use at 7 T. The performance of the array of pulses falling between these extremes, however, has not been systematically evaluated. The aim of this work was to compare the performances of 21 non-selective refocusing pulses spanning a range of durations and SAR levels. The evaluation was based upon simulations and both phantom and in vivo human brain experiments conducted at 7 T. Tested refocusing designs included block, composite block, BIR-4, hyperbolic secant, and numerically optimized composite waveforms. These pulses were divided into three SAR classes and two duration categories, and, based on signal gain in a 3-D spin echo sequence, practical recommendations on usage are made within each category. All evaluated pulses were found to produce greater volume-averaged signals relative to a 180° block pulse. Although signal gains often come with the price of increased SAR or duration, some pulses were found to result in significant signal enhancement while also adhering to practical constraints. This work demonstrates the signal gains and losses realizable with single-channel refocusing pulse designs and should assist in the selection of suitable refocusing pulses for practical 3-D spin-echo imaging at 7 T. It further establishes a reference against which future pulses and multi-channel designs can be compared. PMID:22177384

The structural changes of T7 RNA polymerase from transcription initiation to elongation

PubMed Central

Steitz, Thomas A

2010-01-01

Summary The structures of T7 RNA polymerase (T7 RNAP) captured in the initiation and elongation phases of transcription, as well as an intermediate stage provide insights into how this RNA polymerase protein can initiate RNA synthesis and synthesize 7 to 10 nucleotides of RNA while remaining bound to the DNA promoter site. Recently, the structures of T7 RNAP bound to it promoter DNA along with either a 7 nucleotide or 8 nucleotide transcript show an elongated product site resulting from a 40° or 45° rotation of the promoter and domain that binds it. The different functional properties of the initiation and elongation phases of transcription are illuminated from structures of the initiation and elongation complexes. Structural insights into the translocation of the product transcript of RNAP, its separation of the downstream duplex DNA and its removal of the transcript from the heteroduplex are provided by the structures of several states of nucleotide incorporation. A conformational change in the “fingers” domain that results from the binding or dissociation of incoming NTP or PPi appears to be associated with the state of translocation of T7 RNAP. PMID:19811903

MicroRNA let-7, T cells, and patient survival in colorectal cancer

PubMed Central

Dou, Ruoxu; Nishihara, Reiko; Cao, Yin; Hamada, Tsuyoshi; Mima, Kosuke; Masuda, Atsuhiro; Masugi, Yohei; Shi, Yan; Gu, Mancang; Li, Wanwan; da Silva, Annacarolina; Nosho, Katsuhiko; Zhang, Xuehong; Meyerhardt, Jeffrey A.; Giovannucci, Edward L.; Chan, Andrew T.; Fuchs, Charles S.; Qian, Zhi Rong; Ogino, Shuji

2016-01-01

Experimental evidence suggests that the let-7 family of noncoding RNAs suppresses adaptive immune responses, contributing to immune evasion by the tumor. We hypothesized that the amount of let-7a and let-7b expression in colorectal carcinoma might be associated with limited T-lymphocyte infiltrates in the tumor microenvironment and worse clinical outcome. Utilizing the molecular pathological epidemiology resources of 795 rectal and colon cancers in two U.S.-nationwide prospective cohort studies, we measured tumor-associated let-7a and let-7b expression levels by quantitative reverse-transcription PCR, and CD3+, CD8+, CD45RO (PTPRC)+, and FOXP3+ cell densities by tumor tissue microarray immunohistochemistry and computer-assisted image analysis. Logistic regression analysis and Cox proportional hazards regression were used to assess associations of let-7a (and let-7b) expression (quartile predictor variables) with T-cell densities (binary outcome variables) and mortality, respectively, controlling for tumor molecular features, including microsatellite instability, CpG island methylator phenotype, LINE-1 methylation, and KRAS, BRAF, and PIK3CA mutations. Compared with cases in the lowest quartile of let-7a expression, those in the highest quartile were associated with lower densities of CD3+ [multivariate odds ratio (OR), 0.40; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.23 to 0.67; Ptrend = 0.003] and CD45RO+ cells (multivariate OR, 0.31; 95% CI, 0.17 to 0.58; Ptrend = 0.0004), and higher colorectal cancer-specific mortality (multivariate hazard ratio, 1.82; 95% CI, 1.42 to 3.13; Ptrend = 0.001). In contrast, let-7b expression was not significantly associated with T-cell density or colorectal cancer prognosis. Our data support the role of let-7a in suppressing antitumor immunity in colorectal cancer, and suggest let-7a as a potential target of immunotherapy. PMID:27737877

Symmetry and light stuffing of H o 2 T i 2 O 7 ,   E r 2 T i 2 O 7 , and Y b 2 T i 2 O 7 characterized by synchrotron x-ray diffraction

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

Baroudi, Kristen; Gaulin, Bruce D.; Lapidus, Saul H.

2015-07-01

The Ho2Ti2O7, Er2Ti2O7 and Yb2Ti2O7 pyrochlores were studied by synchrotron X-ray diffraction to determine whether the (002) peak, forbidden in the pyrochlore space group Fd-3m but observed in single crystal neutron scattering measurements, is present due to a deviation of their pyrochlore structure from Fd-3m symmetry. Synchrotron diffraction measurements on precisely synthesized stoichiometric and non-stoichiometric powders and a crushed floating zone crystal of Ho2Ti2O7 revealed that the (002) reflection is absent in all cases to a sensitivity of approximately one part in 30,000 of the strongest X-ray diffraction peak. This indicates to high sensitivity that the structural space group ofmore » these rare earth titanate pyrochlores is Fd-3m, and that thus the (002) peak observed in the neutron scattering experiments has a non-structural origin. The cell parameters and internal strain for lightly stuffed Ho2+xTi2-xO7 are also presented.« less

Etude par resistivite electrique du comportement d'un alliage amorphe Fe 40Ni 38Mo 4B 18 deforme par traction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hoang, Long Phan; Sacovy, Paulette; Delaplace, Jean

1983-02-01

Des rubans d'alliages amorphes Metglas du type Fe 40Ni 38Mo 4B 18 à l'état brut de trempe ont été déformés par traction à la température ambiante et l'on a suivi les variations de la résistance électrique des échantillons au cours de la déformation. Il ressort de ces essais que la déformation plastique qui est de l'ordre de 0.5% avant rupture ne se produit pas de faĉon homogène dans l'échantillon. Les mesures électriques effectuées au cours de la déformation mettent en évidence dans le domaine élastique un effet d'élastorésistance, relativement important ( K ≠ 1); elles montrent que dans le domaine plastique la déformation permanente des échantillons s'accompagne d'une diminution de la résistivité électrique du matériau. Deux hypothèses sont discutées pour expliquer cet effet inattendu, l'un qui fait appel à l'existence de volumes libres, l'autre qui suppose une cristallisation localisée du matériau sous l'effet de la contrainte.

Eight new T4.5-T7.5 dwarfs discovered in the UKIDSS Large Area Survey Data Release 1

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lodieu, N.; Pinfield, D. J.; Leggett, S. K.; Jameson, R. F.; Mortlock, D. J.; Warren, S. J.; Burningham, B.; Lucas, P. W.; Chiu, K.; Liu, M. C.; Venemans, B. P.; McMahon, R. G.; Allard, F.; Baraffe, I.; Barrado y Navascués, D.; Carraro, G.; Casewell, S. L.; Chabrier, G.; Chappelle, R. J.; Clarke, F.; Day-Jones, A. C.; Deacon, N. R.; Dobbie, P. D.; Folkes, S. L.; Hambly, N. C.; Hewett, P. C.; Hodgkin, S. T.; Jones, H. R. A.; Kendall, T. R.; Magazzù, A.; Martín, E. L.; McCaughrean, M. J.; Nakajima, T.; Pavlenko, Y.; Tamura, M.; Tinney, C. G.; Zapatero Osorio, M. R.

2007-08-01

We present eight new T4.5-T7.5 dwarfs identified in the UKIRT (United Kingdom Infrared Telescope) Infrared Deep Sky Survey (UKIDSS) Large Area Survey (LAS) Data Release 1 (DR1). In addition we have recovered the T4.5 dwarf SDSSJ020742.91+000056.2 and the T8.5 dwarf ULASJ003402.77-005206.7. Photometric candidates were picked up in two-colour diagrams over 190deg2 (DR1) and selected in at least two filters. All candidates exhibit near-infrared spectra with strong methane and water absorption bands characteristic of T dwarfs and the derived spectral types follow the unified scheme of Burgasser et al.. We have found six new T4.5-T5.5 dwarfs, one T7 dwarf, one T7.5 dwarf and recovered a T4.5 dwarf and a T8.5 dwarf. We provide distance estimates which lie in the 15-85pc range; the T7.5 and T8.5 dwarfs are probably within 25pc of the Sun. We conclude with a discussion of the number of T dwarfs expected after completion of the LAS, comparing these initial results to theoretical simulations. Based on observations made with the United Kingdom Infrared Telescope, operated by the Joint Astronomy Centre on behalf of the UK Particle Physics and Astronomy Research Council. E-mail: nlodieu@iac.es ‡ Alfred P. Sloan Research Fellow.

26 CFR 1.382-7T - Built-in gains and losses (temporary).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 26 Internal Revenue 4 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Built-in gains and losses (temporary). 1.382-7T... TAX (CONTINUED) INCOME TAXES Insolvency Reorganizations § 1.382-7T Built-in gains and losses... recognized built-in gain. The term prepaid income means any amount received prior to the change date that is...

Neuroprotective Activity of (1S,2E,4R,6R,-7E,11E)-2,7,11-cembratriene-4,6-diol (4R) in vitro and in vivo in Rodent Models of Brain Ischemia

PubMed Central

Xu, Zhenfeng; Mu, Chaofeng; Alvarez, Paloma; Ford, Byron D.; El Sayed, Khalid; Eterovic, Vesna A.; Ferchmin, Pedro A.; Hao, Jiukuan

2015-01-01

(1S,2E,4R,6R,-7E,11E)-2,7,11-cembratriene-4,6-diol (4R) is a precursor to key flavor ingredients in leaves of Nicotiana species. The present study shows 4R decreased brain damage in rodent ischemic stroke models. The 4R-pretreated mice had lower infarct volume (26.2±9.7 mm3) than those in control groups (untreated: 63.4±4.2 mm3, DMSO: 60.2±14.2 mm3). The 4R-posttreated rats also had less infarct volume (120±65 mm3) than those in the rats of DMSO group (291±95 mm3). The results from in vitro experiments indicate that 4R decreased neuro2a cells (neuroblastoma cells) apoptosis induced by oxygen glucose deprivation (OGD), and improved the population spikes (PSs) recovery in rat acute hippocampal slices under OGD; a phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) inhibitor, wortmannin, abolished the effect of 4R on PSs recovery. Furthermore, 4R also inhibited monocyte adhesion to bEND5 cells (murine brain-derived endothelial cells) and upregulation of intercellular adhesion molecule-1(ICAM-1) induced by OGD/reoxygenation (OGD/R), and restored the p-Akt level to pre-OGD/R values in bEND5 cells. In conclusion, the present study indicates that 4R has a protective effect in rodent ischemic stroke models. Inhibition of ICAM-1 expression and restoration of Akt phosphorylation are the possible mechanisms involved in cellular protection by 4R. PMID:25677097

Response of bacteriophage T7 biological dosimeter to dehydration and extraterrestrial solar UV radiation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hegedüs, M.; Fekete, A.; Módos, K.; Kovács, G.; Rontó, Gy.; Lammer, H.; Panitz, C.

2007-02-01

The experiment "Phage and uracil response" (PUR) will be accommodated in the EXPOSE facility of the ISS. Bacteriophage T7/isolated T7 DNA will be exposed to different subsets of extreme environmental parameters in space, in order to study the Responses of Organisms to the Space Environment (ROSE). Launch into orbit is preceded by EXPOSE Experiment Verification Tests (EVT) to optimize the methods and the evaluation. Bacteriophage T7/isolated T7 DNA thin layers were exposed to vacuum ( 10-6Pa), to monochromatic (254 nm) and polychromatic (200-400 nm) UV radiation in air as well as in simulated space vacuum. Using neutral density (ND) filters dose-effect curves were performed in order to define the maximum doses tolerated. The effect of temperature fluctuation in vacuum was also studied. The structural/chemical effects on bacteriophage T7/isolated T7 DNA were analyzed by spectroscopic and microscopical methods. Characteristic changes in the absorption spectrum and in the electrophoretic pattern of phage/DNA have been detected indicating the damage of isolated and intraphage DNA. DNA damage was also determined by quantitative PCR (QPCR) using 555 and 3826 bp fragments of T7 DNA. We obtained substantial evidence that DNA lesions (e.g. strand breaks, DNA-protein cross-links, cyclobutane pirimidine dimers (CPDs) etc.) accumulate throughout exposure. Preliminary results suggest a synergistic action of space vacuum and UV radiation with DNA being the critical target.

Monoamine uptake inhibitors block alpha7-nAChR-mediated cerebral nitrergic neurogenic vasodilation.

PubMed

Long, Cheng; Chen, Mei-Fang; Sarwinski, Susan J; Chen, Po-Yi; Si, Minliang; Hoffer, Barry J; Evans, M Steven; Lee, Tony J F

2006-07-01

We have proposed that activation of cerebral perivascular sympathetic alpha7-nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (alpha7-nAChRs) by nicotinic agonists releases norepinephrine, which then acts on parasympathetic nitrergic nerves, resulting in release of nitric oxide and vasodilation. Using patch-clamp electrophysiology, immunohistochemistry, and in vitro tissue bath myography, we tested this axo-axonal interaction hypothesis further by examining whether blocking norepinephrine reuptake enhanced alpha7-nAChR-mediated cerebral nitrergic neurogenic vasodilation. The results indicated that choline- and nicotine-induced alpha7-nAChR-mediated nitrergic neurogenic relaxation in endothelium-denuded isolated porcine basilar artery rings was enhanced by desipramine and imipramine at lower concentrations (0.03-0.1 microM) but inhibited at higher concentrations (0.3-10 microM). In cultured superior cervical ganglion (SCG) neurons of the pig and rat, choline (0.1-30 mM)-evoked inward currents were reversibly blocked by 1-30 microM mecamylamine, 1-30 microM methyllycaconitine, 10-300 nM alpha-bungarotoxin, and 0.1-10 microM desipramine and imipramine, providing electrophysiological evidence for the presence of similar functional alpha7-nAChRs in cerebral perivascular sympathetic neurons of pigs and rats. In alpha7-nAChR-expressing Xenopus oocytes, choline-elicited inward currents were attenuated by alpha-bungarotoxin, imipramine, and desipramine. These monoamine uptake inhibitors appeared to directly block the alpha7-nAChR, resulting in diminished nicotinic agonist-induced cerebral nitrergic vasodilation. The enhanced nitrergic vasodilation by lower concentrations of monoamine uptake inhibitors is likely due to a greater effect on monoamine uptake than on alpha7-nAChR blockade. These results further support the hypothesis of axo-axonal interaction in nitrergic regulation of cerebral vascular tone.

Two R7 RGS proteins shape retinal bipolar cell signaling

PubMed Central

Mojumder, Deb Kumar; Qian, Yan; Wensel, Theodore G.

2009-01-01

RGS7, RGS11, and their binding partner Gβ5 are localized to the dendritic tips of retinal ON bipolar cells (ON-BPC), where mGluR6 responds to glutamate released from photoreceptor terminals by activation of the RGS7/RGS11 substrate, Gαo. To determine their functions in retinal signaling, we investigated cell-specific expression patterns of RGS7 and RGS11 by immunostaining, and measured light responses by electroretinography (ERG) in mice with targeted disruptions of the genes encoding them. RGS7 staining is present in dendritic tips of all rod ON-BPC, but missing in those for subsets of cone ON-BPC, whereas the converse was true for RGS11 staining. Genetic disruption of either RGS7 or RGS11 produced delays in the ON-BPC-derived electroretinogram b-wave, but no changes in the photoreceptor-derived a-wave. Homozygous RGS7 mutant mice had delays in rod-driven b-waves, whereas, RGS11 mutant mice had delays in rod-driven, and especially in cone-driven b-waves. The b-wave delays were further enhanced in mice homozygous for both RGS7 and RGS11 gene disruptions. Thus, RGS7 and RGS11 act in parallel to regulate the kinetics of ON bipolar cell responses, with differential impacts on the rod and cone pathways. PMID:19535587

Hexagonally packed DNA within bacteriophage T7 stabilized by curvature stress.

PubMed Central

Odijk, T

1998-01-01

A continuum computation is proposed for the bending stress stabilizing DNA that is hexagonally packed within bacteriophage T7. Because the inner radius of the DNA spool is rather small, the stress of the curved DNA genome is strong enough to balance its electrostatic self-repulsion so as to form a stable hexagonal phase. The theory is in accord with the microscopically determined structure of bacteriophage T7 filled with DNA within the experimental margin of error. PMID:9726924

In vivo replication of T4 and T7 bacteriophages in germ-free mice colonized with Escherichia coli.

PubMed

Weiss, Marietta; Denou, Emmanuel; Bruttin, Anne; Serra-Moreno, Ruth; Dillmann, Marie-Lise; Brüssow, Harald

2009-10-10

The gut transit of T4 phages was studied in axenic mice mono-colonized with the non-pathogenic Escherichia coli strain K-12. Thirty minutes, 1 and 2 h after phage feeding, T4 phage had reached the jejunum, ileum and cecum, respectively. Phage was found in the lumen and was also associated with the mucosa. One day later no phage was detected in the feces. Compared to germ-free control animals, oral T4 phage led to a 300-fold higher fecal phage titer in mice mono-colonized with E. coli strain WG-5. The in vivo T4 phage replication was transient and reached peak fecal titers about 8 h after oral phage application followed by a rapid titer decrease over two days. Similar data were obtained in mice colonized with E. coli strain Nissle. In contrast, orally applied T7 phage experienced a massive and sustained in vivo replication in mice mono-colonized with E. coli strain WG-5 irrespective whether phage or E. coli host was applied first. T7 phage replication occurred mainly in the large intestine. High titers of T7 phage and high E. coli cell counts coexisted in the feces. The observation of only 20% T7 phage-resistant fecal E. coli colonies suggests a refuge model where phage-sensitive E. coli cells are physically or physiologically protected from phage infection in the gut. The difference between T7 and T4 with respect to gut replication might partly reflect their distinct in vitro capacity to replicate on slowly growing cells.

T7 lytic phage-displayed peptide libraries: construction and diversity characterization.

PubMed

Krumpe, Lauren R H; Mori, Toshiyuki

2014-01-01

In this chapter, we describe the construction of T7 bacteriophage (phage)-displayed peptide libraries and the diversity analyses of random amino acid sequences obtained from the libraries. We used commercially available reagents, Novagen's T7Select system, to construct the libraries. Using a combination of biotinylated extension primer and streptavidin-coupled magnetic beads, we were able to prepare library DNA without applying gel purification, resulting in extremely high ligation efficiencies. Further, we describe the use of bioinformatics tools to characterize library diversity. Amino acid frequency and positional amino acid diversity and hydropathy are estimated using the REceptor LIgand Contacts website http://relic.bio.anl.gov. Peptide net charge analysis and peptide hydropathy analysis are conducted using the Genetics Computer Group Wisconsin Package computational tools. A comprehensive collection of the estimated number of recombinants and titers of T7 phage-displayed peptide libraries constructed in our lab is included.

La plastie en rail dans le traitement des brides rétractiles du creux poplite

PubMed Central

Achbouk, A.; Khales, A.; Bourra, K.; Tourabi, K.; Ababou, K.; Ihrai, H.

2011-01-01

Summary Les Auteurs décrivent le cas d’un patient âgé de 45 ans atteint de brûlures thermiques par flammes suite à la déflagration d’une bonbonne de gaz. Les lésions initiales intéressaient les quatre membres (en particulier, le genou) et le tronc. La prise en charge initiale a consisté en une excision-greffe précoce des membres. L’évolution a été marquée par la survenue de cicatrices hypertrophiques au niveau des zones non greffées et à la bordure de la greffe ainsi que la survenue de brides rétractiles. Devant l’handicap fonctionnel engendré par la bride à cause de la limitation importante de l’extension, le patient a été admis pour cure chirurgicale. Grâce à la technique en rail décrite, le patient a pu récupérer une fonction normale du genou. Les suites ont été simples avec une durée d’hospitalisation d’un mois. Le résultat esthétique est relativement satisfaisant. La technique en rail est un moyen parmi l’arsenal thérapeutique qui permet de traiter la bride du creux poplité. Sa simplicité, sa facilité technique et son résultat satisfaisant ainsi que ses suites simples permettent de la rendre une technique très prisée dans le traitement de ce type de bride. PMID:21991240

Etude comparative des complications liées à l'utilisation du cathéter veineux périphérique avec et sans système clos à bouchon hépariné

PubMed Central

Liu, Ying Chun; Seydou, Togo; Sadio, Yéna; Liang, Tu Zheng; Ge, jin

2015-01-01

Introduction L'utilisation correcte du système clos à bouchon hépariné sur les cathéters périphériques pendant les perfusions est une pratique courante dans les pays développés et aussi dans plusieurs pays en développement selon un consensus international établi. Nous comparons les résultats de la formation de thrombus et de l'infection liées au cathéter veineux périphérique chez les patients ayant bénéficié de perfusion avec système clos à bouchon hépariné (groupe expérimentale) et ceux qui ont été perfusé sans bouchon hépariné (groupe témoin). Méthodes Nous avons colligé 100 patients hospitalisés pendant la période de Juillet 2014 à Décembre 2014 dans le service d'hospitalisation de chirurgie thoracique de l'hôpital du Mali qui ont été repartis en 2 groupes de 50 patients chacun pour une analyse comparative. L'observation du thrombus dans la lumière du cathéter est effectuée puis enregistré et tous les cathéters ont été repris pour réalisation de culture bactérienne au laboratoire dans les 2 groupes. Résultats Dans le groupe témoin, il existe un thrombus dans la lumière du cathéter dans 36 cas (72%) et l'examen de culture bactérienne était positif dans 90%. Tandis que dans le groupe expérimental on retrouve 3 cas (6%) de thrombose du cathéter et on note une absence de germe dans l'examen bactériologique. Conclusion L'utilisation correcte du système clos à bouchon hépariné lors des perfusions peut réduire et prévenir de façon significative les complications liées au cathéter notamment l'occlusion par thrombus, leur migration et la survenue de l'infection. PMID:26600900

PLACD-7T Study: Atherosclerotic Carotid Plaque Components Correlated with Cerebral Damage at 7 Tesla Magnetic Resonance Imaging.

PubMed

den Hartog, A G; Bovens, S M; Koning, W; Hendrikse, J; Pasterkamp, G; Moll, F L; de Borst, G J

2011-02-01

In patients with carotid artery stenosis histological plaque composition is associated with plaque stability and with presenting symptomatology. Preferentially, plaque vulnerability should be taken into account in pre-operative work-up of patients with severe carotid artery stenosis. However, currently no appropriate and conclusive (non-) invasive technique to differentiate between the high and low risk carotid artery plaque in vivo is available. We propose that 7 Tesla human high resolution MRI scanning will visualize carotid plaque characteristics more precisely and will enable correlation of these specific components with cerebral damage. The aim of the PlaCD-7T study is 1: to correlate 7T imaging with carotid plaque histology (gold standard); and 2: to correlate plaque characteristics with cerebral damage ((clinically silent) cerebral (micro) infarcts or bleeds) on 7 Tesla high resolution (HR) MRI. We propose a single center prospective study for either symptomatic or asymptomatic patients with haemodynamic significant (70%) stenosis of at least one of the carotid arteries. The Athero-Express (AE) biobank histological analysis will be derived according to standard protocol. Patients included in the AE and our prospective study will undergo a pre-operative 7 Tesla HR-MRI scan of both the head and neck area. We hypothesize that the 7 Tesla MRI scanner will allow early identification of high risk carotid plaques being associated with micro infarcted cerebral areas, and will thus be able to identify patients with a high risk of periprocedural stroke, by identification of surrogate measures of increased cardiovascular risk.

PLACD-7T Study: Atherosclerotic Carotid Plaque Components Correlated with Cerebral Damage at 7 Tesla Magnetic Resonance Imaging

PubMed Central

den Hartog, A.G; Bovens, S.M; Koning, W; Hendrikse, J; Pasterkamp, G; Moll, F.L; de Borst, G.J

2011-01-01

Introduction: In patients with carotid artery stenosis histological plaque composition is associated with plaque stability and with presenting symptomatology. Preferentially, plaque vulnerability should be taken into account in pre-operative work-up of patients with severe carotid artery stenosis. However, currently no appropriate and conclusive (non-) invasive technique to differentiate between the high and low risk carotid artery plaque in vivo is available. We propose that 7 Tesla human high resolution MRI scanning will visualize carotid plaque characteristics more precisely and will enable correlation of these specific components with cerebral damage. Study objective: The aim of the PlaCD-7T study is 1: to correlate 7T imaging with carotid plaque histology (gold standard); and 2: to correlate plaque characteristics with cerebral damage ((clinically silent) cerebral (micro) infarcts or bleeds) on 7 Tesla high resolution (HR) MRI. Design: We propose a single center prospective study for either symptomatic or asymptomatic patients with haemodynamic significant (70%) stenosis of at least one of the carotid arteries. The Athero-Express (AE) biobank histological analysis will be derived according to standard protocol. Patients included in the AE and our prospective study will undergo a pre-operative 7 Tesla HR-MRI scan of both the head and neck area. Discussion: We hypothesize that the 7 Tesla MRI scanner will allow early identification of high risk carotid plaques being associated with micro infarcted cerebral areas, and will thus be able to identify patients with a high risk of periprocedural stroke, by identification of surrogate measures of increased cardiovascular risk. PMID:22294972

Production du baryon Sigma+ dans les collisions e+e- au LEP

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Joly, Andre

Les mécanismes de production des baryons dans les interactions e+e- font l'objet de nombreuses études. De plus, les modes de production des baryons étranges semblent faire appel A des processus spécifiques, qui sont encore mal compris. Notre étude de la production des baryons Σ+ dans les interactions e+e- nous permet de formuler certaines remarques sur l'état des connaîssances acquises sur le sujet. Une methode de reconstruction originale et des critères de sélection spécifiques ont été développés afin d'identifier des baryons Σ+ de haute Energie ( ES+ > 5 GeV), partir de leur canal de désintégration en un proton et un π0 (S+-->p+p0 ). Trois mesures principales sont réalisées à partir de notre échantillon de baryons reconstruits. Le nombre mesuré de baryons Σ+ produits par événement e +e- à 91 GeV est de: =0.102+/-0.006(stat.) +/-0.008(syst.) +/-0.003(extrap.) où les erreurs sont dues à la statistique, aux systématiques et à la procédure d'extrapolation. Ce résultat est en accord avec ceux obtenus précédemment, mais avec des erreurs réduites. La section efficace différentielle en fonction de l'energie est mesurée et comparée aux prédictions des principaux générateurs Monte-Carlo (JETSET7.4(MOPS), JETSET7.4 et HERWIG5.9). A haute énergie, HERWIG ne semble pas reproduire les mesures, aussi bien que les deux versions de JETSET. Enfin, la position du maximum de la section efficace différentielle de production des baryons Σ+ en fonction de l'impulsion est mesurée. On trouve: overlinexoverlineS+=2.32+/- 0.47 Une étude spécifique du générateur JETSET7.4(MOPS) est réalisee, afin de mieux comprendre les mécanismes de production de l'étrangeté et du spin dans la production des baryons. Aucun générateur ne semble capable de décrire de manière simultanée la production du spin et de l'étrangeté.

Etude du strabisme chez des enfants de 0 à 15 ans suivis a Lubumbashi, République Démocratique du Congo: analyse des aspects épidémiologiques et cliniques

PubMed Central

Bienvenu, Yogolelo Asani; Angel, Musau Nkola; Sebastien, Mbuyi Musanzayi; Philippe, Cilundika Mulenga; Léon, Kabamba Ngombe; Eugene, Twite Kabange; Chami, Cham Lubamba; Prosper, Kalenga Muenze Kayamba; Claude, Speeg-Schatz; Gaby, Chenge Borasisi

2015-01-01

Introduction Le strabisme est défini comme un syndrome à double composante: motrice et sensorielle. Le but de ce travail est de décrire les aspects épidémiologiques et cliniques du strabisme chez l'enfant congolais de 0 à 15 ans dans la ville de Lubumbashi. Méthodes Il s'agit d'une étude descriptive longitudinale sur les aspects épidémiologiques et cliniques du strabisme chez l'enfant congolais de 0 à 15 ans dans la ville de Lubumbashi entre Décembre 2012 à Décembre 2013. Nous avons recueilli l’âge des patients, leur sexe, leur provenance, le type de strabisme, la réfraction, le fond d'oeil, les antécédents (hérédité) ainsi que le type de la déviation strabique observé sur 70 patients. Résultats Nous avons observé 70 cas de strabisme manifeste dont 31 cas (44,28%) étaient dans la tranche d’âge comprise entre 0 et 5 ans. L’âge moyen de nos patients était de 6,7 ans avec une prédominance du sexe féminin, soit 51,42%. Le strabisme était convergent dans 65,71%, divergent dans 30%, et vertical dans 4,28%. Les ésotropies représentaient 65 cas (92,85%), quatre cas (5,71%) avaient un antécédent familial de strabisme au premier degré de parenté, 21 cas (30%) au second degré de parenté, 45 cas (64,28%) n'avaient pas cet antécédent. L'oeil gauche était le plus dominé dans 30% des cas. Les facteurs favorisant le strabisme étaient inconnus dans 54 cas (77,14%). Le strabisme était secondaire à l'hypermétropie chez 32 patients (42,71%). Conclusion La fréquence du strabisme dans la ville de Lubumbashi chez les enfants âgés de 0 à 15 ans est de 0,50%. Comme dans la plupart des études sur le strabisme de l'enfant, c'est l’ésotropie qui est la déviation la plus commune. PMID:26834919

Distribution épidémiologique de l'infection à VIH chez les femmes enceintes dans les dix régions du Cameroun et implications stratégiques pour les programmes de prévention

PubMed Central

Billong, Serge-Clotaire; Fokam, Joseph; Billong, Edson-Joan; Nguefack-Tsague, Georges; Essi, Marie-Josée; Fodjo, Raoul; Sosso, Samuel-Martin; Gomba, Armelle; Mosoko-Jembia, Joseph; Loni-Ekali, Gabriel; Colizzi, Vittorio; Bissek, Anne-Cécile Zoung-Kani; Monebenimp, Francisca; Nfetam, Jean-Bosco Elat

2015-01-01

Introduction Le Cameroun se situe dans un contexte d’épidémie généralisée du VIH. La sous-population des femmes enceintes, facilement accessible au sein de la population générale, représente une cible probante pour mener la surveillance du VIH et estimer l’évolution épidémiologique. L'objectif de notre étude était d’évaluer la distribution épidémiologique du VIH chez les femmes enceintes. Méthodes Étude transversale menée en 2012 chez 6521 femmes enceintes (49,3% âgées de 15-24 ans) en première consultation prénatale (CPN1) dans 60 sites des 10 régions Camerounaises. L'algorithme en série a été utilisé pour le sérodiagnostic du VIH. Résultats La prévalence du VIH était de 7,8% (508/6521), avec une différence non significative (p = 0,297) entre milieu rural (7,4%) et milieu urbain (8,1%). En zone rurale, cette prévalence variait de 0,7% à l'Extrême-Nord à 11,8% au Sud. Cependant, en zone urbaine elle variait de 4% à l'Ouest à 11,1% au Sud-Ouest. Suivant l’âge, la prévalence était plus élevée (11,3%) chez les femmes de 35-39 ans. Suivant le niveau de scolarisation, la prévalence du VIH était plus faible (4,4%) chez celles non-scolarisées, et plus élevée (9,3%) chez celles ayant un niveau primaire. Selon la profession, l'infection était plus élevée chez les coiffeuses (15,5%), secrétaires (14,8%), commerçantes (12,9%) et institutrices/enseignantes (10,8%). Conclusion La prévalence du VIH reste élevée chez les femmes enceintes au Cameroun, sans distinction entre milieux rural et urbain. Les stratégies de prévention devraient s'orienter préférentiellement chez les femmes enceintes âgées, celles du niveau d'instruction primaire, et celles du secteur des petites et moyennes entreprises. PMID:26090037

miR-7-1 POTENTIATED ESTROGEN RECEPTOR AGONISTS FOR FUNCTIONAL NEUROPROTECTION IN VSC4.1 MOTONEURONS

PubMed Central

CHAKRABARTI, M.; BANIK, N. L.; RAY, S. K.

2013-01-01

Protection of motoneurons is an important goal in the treatment of spinal cord injury (SCI). We tested whether neuroprotective microRNAs (miRs) like miR-206, miR-17, miR-21, miR-7-1, and miR-106a could enhance efficacy of estrogen receptor (ER) agonists such as 1,3,5-tris (4-hydroxyphenyl)-4-propyl-1H-pyrazole (PPT, ERα agonist), Way200070 (WAY, ERβ agonist), and estrogen (EST, ERα and ERβ agonist) in preventing apoptosis in the calcium ionophore (CI) insulted VSC4.1 motoneurons. We determined that 200 nM CI induced 70% cell death. Treatment with 50 nM PPT, 100 nM WAY, and 150 nM EST induced overexpression of ERα, ERβ, and both receptors, respectively, at mRNA and protein levels. Treatment with ER agonists significantly upregulated miR-206, miR-17, and miR-7-1 in the CI insulted VSC4.1 motoneurons. Transfection with miR-206, miR-17, or miR-7-1 mimic potentiated WAY or EST to inhibit apoptosis in the CI insulted VSC4.1 motoneurons. Overexpression of miR-7-1 maximally increased efficacy of WAY and EST for down regulation of pro-apoptotic Bax and upregulation of anti-apoptotic Bcl-2. A search using miRDB indicated that miR-7-1 could inhibit expression of L-type Ca2+ channel protein alpha 1C (CPα1C). miR-7-1 overexpression and WAY or EST treatment down regulated CPα1C but upregulated p-Akt to trigger cell survival signaling. The same therapeutic strategy increased expression of the Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II beta (CaMKIIβ) and the phosphorylated cAMP response element binding protein (p-CREB) so as to promote Bcl-2 transcription. Whole cell membrane potential and mitochondrial membrane potential studies indicated that miR-7-1 highly potentiated EST to preserve functionality in the CI insulted VSC4.1 motoneurons. In conclusion, our data indicated that miR-7-1 most significantly potentiated efficacy of EST for functional neuroprotection and this therapeutic strategy could be used in the future to attenuate apoptosis of motoneurons in SCI. PMID

Cirque du Monde en tant qu’intervention en santé

PubMed Central

Fournier, Cynthia; Drouin, Mélodie-Anne; Marcoux, Jérémie; Garel, Patricia; Bochud, Emmanuel; Théberge, Julie; Aubertin, Patrice; Favreau, Gil; Fleet, Richard

2014-01-01

Résumé Objectif Présenter le programme Cirque du Monde du Cirque du Soleil et son potentiel en tant qu’intervention en soins de santé de première ligne pour les médecins de famille. Sources des données Une revue de la littérature menée dans les bases de données PubMed, Cochrane Library, PsycINFO, La Presse, Eureka, Google Scholar et Érudit à l’aide des mots-clés circus, social circus, Cirque du Monde et Cirque du Soleil. Une initiative à Montréal nommée Espace Transition qui s’inspire directement de Cirque du Monde. Communication personnelle avec le conseiller principal en formation en cirque social du Cirque du Soleil. Sélection d’études Les 50 premiers articles ou sites Internet répertoriés pour chaque mot-clé dans chacune des bases de données ciblées ont été révisés sur la base des titres et des résumés, s’il s’agissait d’un article, ou sur la base du titre et du contenu de la page, s’il s’agissait d’une page Internet. Ensuite, les articles et les sites Internet qui étudiaient un aspect du cirque social ou qui présentaient une intervention impliquant le cirque étaient retenus pour une révision. Aucune contrainte d’année de publication n’a été appliquée étant donné qu’on cherchait une littérature générale sur le cirque social. Synthèse Aucun article n’a été trouvé sur le cirque social en tant qu’intervention en santé. Nous avons trouvé une étude sur l’utilisation du cirque en tant qu’intervention en milieu scolaire. Cette étude a démontré une augmentation de l’estime personnelle des enfants grâce à l’intervention. Nous avons trouvé une étude sur l’utilisation du cirque en tant qu’intervention sur une réserve amérindienne. Cette étude présente des résultats qualitatifs non spécifiques au programme du cirque social. Les autres articles répertoriés n’étaient que des descriptions du cirque social. Un site web concernant l’utilisation du cirque social pour

Neuroprotective activity of (1S,2E,4R,6R,-7E,11E)-2,7,11-cembratriene-4,6-diol (4R) in vitro and in vivo in rodent models of brain ischemia.

PubMed

Martins, Antonio H; Hu, Jing; Xu, Zhenfeng; Mu, Chaofeng; Alvarez, Paloma; Ford, Byron D; El Sayed, Khalid; Eterovic, Vesna A; Ferchmin, Pedro A; Hao, Jiukuan

2015-04-16

(1S,2E,4R,6R,-7E,11E)-2,7,11-cembratriene-4,6-diol (4R) is a precursor to key flavor ingredients in leaves of Nicotiana species. The present study shows 4R decreased brain damage in rodent ischemic stroke models. The 4R-pretreated mice had lower infarct volumes (26.2±9.7 mm3) than those in control groups (untreated: 63.4±4.2 mm3, DMSO: 60.2±14.2 mm3). The 4R-posttreated rats also had less infarct volumes (120±65 mm3) than those in the rats of the DMSO group (291±95 mm3). The results from in vitro experiments indicate that 4R decreased neuro2a cell (neuroblastoma cells) apoptosis induced by oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD), and improved the population spikes' (PSs) recovery in rat acute hippocampal slices under OGD; a phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) inhibitor, wortmannin, abolished the effect of 4R on PSs recovery. Furthermore, 4R also inhibited monocyte adhesion to murine brain-derived endothelial (bEND5) cells and upregulation of intercellular adhesion molecule-1(ICAM-1) induced by OGD/reoxygenation (OGD/R), and restored the p-Akt level to pre-OGD/R values in bEND5 cells. In conclusion, the present study indicates that 4R has a protective effect in rodent ischemic stroke models. Inhibition of ICAM-1 expression and restoration of Akt phosphorylation are the possible mechanisms involved in cellular protection by 4R. Copyright © 2015 IBRO. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Rupture simultanée du ligament croisé antérieur et du ligament patellaire: à propos d'un cas

PubMed Central

Achkoun, Abdessalam; Houjairi, Khalid; Quahtan, Omar; Hassoun, Jalal; Arssi, Mohamed; Rahmi, Mohamed; Garch, Abdelhak

2016-01-01

La rupture simultanée du tendon rotulien et du ligament croisé antérieur est une lésion relativement rare. Son diagnostic peut facilement manquer lors de l'examen initial. Les options de traitement incluent la réparation immédiate du tendon rotulien avec soit la reconstruction simultanée ou différée de ligament croisé antérieur. Nous rapportons le cas d'une rupture combinée du tendon rotulien et du ligament croisé antérieur chez un jeune footballeur de 22 ans. Une approche de traitement en deux temps a été effectuée avec un excellent résultat fonctionnel. PMID:27366288

Identifying the cellular targets of natural products using T7 phage display.

PubMed

Piggott, Andrew M; Karuso, Peter

2016-05-04

Covering: up to the end of 2015While Nature continues to deliver a myriad of potent and structurally diverse biologically active small molecules, the cellular targets and modes of action of these natural products are rarely identified, significantly hindering their development as new chemotherapeutic agents. This article provides an introductory tutorial on the use of T7 phage display as a tool to rapidly identify the cellular targets of natural products and is aimed specifically at natural products chemists who may have only limited experience in molecular biology. A brief overview of T7 phage display is provided, including its strengths, weaknesses, and the type of problems that can and cannot be tackled with this technology. Affinity probe construction is reviewed, including linker design and natural product derivatisation strategies. A detailed description of the T7 phage biopanning procedure is provided, with valuable tips for optimising each step in the process, as well as advice for identifying and avoiding the most commonly encountered challenges and pitfalls along the way. Finally, a brief discussion is provided on techniques for validating the cellular targets identified using T7 phage display.

La reconstruction du sourcil par greffon composite du cuir chevelu: une astuce pour faciliter la technique

PubMed Central

El Omari, Mounia; El Mazouz, Samir; Gharib, Noureddine; EL Abbassi, Abdallah

2015-01-01

Les sourcils jouent un rôle important dans l’équilibre esthétique du visage. Leur reconstruction ou ophriopoïése, après séquelle de brûlure fait partie intégrante du programme de réhabilitation de la face brûlée. Plusieurs techniques ont été décrites. Nous insistons ici sur l'intérêt d'une technique simple, à la portée de tous les chirurgiens, et dont la méthode et les résultats peuvent être améliorés par un dessin bien planifié des zones donneuse et receveuse: la greffe composite prélevée au niveau du cuir chevelu dessinée à l'aide d'un calque du sourcil controlatéral. PMID:26401195

17 CFR 240.15b7-3T - Operational capability in a Year 2000 environment.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... 17 Commodity and Securities Exchanges 3 2012-04-01 2012-04-01 false Operational capability in a Year 2000 environment. 240.15b7-3T Section 240.15b7-3T Commodity and Securities Exchanges SECURITIES... § 240.15b7-3T Operational capability in a Year 2000 environment. (a) This section applies to every...

17 CFR 240.15b7-3T - Operational capability in a Year 2000 environment.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 17 Commodity and Securities Exchanges 3 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Operational capability in a Year 2000 environment. 240.15b7-3T Section 240.15b7-3T Commodity and Securities Exchanges SECURITIES... § 240.15b7-3T Operational capability in a Year 2000 environment. (a) This section applies to every...

17 CFR 240.15b7-3T - Operational capability in a Year 2000 environment.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... 17 Commodity and Securities Exchanges 3 2013-04-01 2013-04-01 false Operational capability in a Year 2000 environment. 240.15b7-3T Section 240.15b7-3T Commodity and Securities Exchanges SECURITIES... § 240.15b7-3T Operational capability in a Year 2000 environment. (a) This section applies to every...

17 CFR 240.15b7-3T - Operational capability in a Year 2000 environment.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... 17 Commodity and Securities Exchanges 4 2014-04-01 2014-04-01 false Operational capability in a Year 2000 environment. 240.15b7-3T Section 240.15b7-3T Commodity and Securities Exchanges SECURITIES... § 240.15b7-3T Operational capability in a Year 2000 environment. (a) This section applies to every...

17 CFR 240.15b7-3T - Operational capability in a Year 2000 environment.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 17 Commodity and Securities Exchanges 3 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Operational capability in a Year 2000 environment. 240.15b7-3T Section 240.15b7-3T Commodity and Securities Exchanges SECURITIES... § 240.15b7-3T Operational capability in a Year 2000 environment. (a) This section applies to every...

Interleukin-7 induces HIV replication in primary naive T cells through a nuclear factor of activated T cell (NFAT)-dependent pathway

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

Managlia, Elizabeth Z.; Landay, Alan; Al-Harthi, Lena

2006-07-05

Interleukin (IL)-7 plays several roles critical to T cell maturation, survival, and homeostasis. Because of these functions, IL-7 is under investigation as an immune-modulator for therapeutic use in lymphopenic clinical conditions, including HIV. We reported that naive T cells, typically not permissive to HIV, can be productively infected when pre-treated with IL-7. We evaluated the mechanism by which IL-7-mediates this effect. IL-7 potently up-regulated the transcriptional factor NFAT, but had no effect on NF{kappa}B. Blocking NFAT activity using a number of reagents, such as Cyclosporin A, FK-506, or the NFAT-specific inhibitor known as VIVIT peptide, all markedly reduced IL-7-mediated inductionmore » of HIV replication in naive T cells. Additional neutralization of cytokines present in IL-7-treated cultures and/or those that have NFAT-binding sequences within their promotors indicated that IL-10, IL-4, and most significantly IFN{gamma}, all contribute to IL-7-induction of HIV productive replication in naive T cells. These data clarify the mechanism by which IL-7 can overcome the block to HIV productive infection in naive T cells, despite their quiescent cell status. These findings are relevant to the treatment of HIV disease and understanding HIV pathogenesis in the naive CD4+ T cell compartment, especially in light of the vigorous pursuit of IL-7 as an in vivo immune modulator.« less

IL-7–dependent STAT1 activation limits homeostatic CD4+ T cell expansion

PubMed Central

Le Saout, Cecile; Luckey, Megan A.; Villarino, Alejandro V.; Smith, Mindy; Hasley, Rebecca B.; Myers, Timothy G.; Imamichi, Hiromi; Park, Jung-Hyun; O’Shea, John J.; Lane, H. Clifford

2017-01-01

IL-7 regulates homeostatic mechanisms that maintain the overall size of the T cell pool throughout life. We show that, under steady-state conditions, IL-7 signaling is principally mediated by activation of signal transducers and activators of transcription 5 (STAT5). In contrast, under lymphopenic conditions, there is a modulation of STAT1 expression resulting in an IL-7–dependent STAT1 and STAT5 activation. Consequently, the IL-7–induced transcriptome is altered with enrichment of IFN-stimulated genes (ISGs). Moreover, STAT1 overexpression was associated with reduced survival in CD4+ T cells undergoing lymphopenia-induced proliferation (LIP). We propose a model in which T cells undergoing LIP upregulate STAT1 protein, “switching on” an alternate IL-7–dependent program. This mechanism could be a physiological process to regulate the expansion and size of the CD4+ T cell pool. During HIV infection, the virus could exploit this pathway, leading to the homeostatic dysregulation of the T cell pools observed in these patients. PMID:29202461

Intermittent IL-7 Signaling Essential for T cell Homeostasis | Center for Cancer Research

Cancer.gov

In order for the immune system to mount an appropriate response to foreign antigens throughout a person’s life, the body must maintain a sufficient population of circulating mature, naïve T cells, a process known as T cell homeostasis. Previous studies revealed that this process depends upon signaling from the cytokine interleukin-7 (IL-7) as well as from the T cell antigen

Electrically tunable transport and high-frequency dynamics in antiferromagnetic S r3I r2O7

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Seinige, Heidi; Williamson, Morgan; Shen, Shida; Wang, Cheng; Cao, Gang; Zhou, Jianshi; Goodenough, John B.; Tsoi, Maxim

2016-12-01

We report dc and high-frequency transport properties of antiferromagnetic S r3I r2O7 . Temperature-dependent resistivity measurements show that the activation energy of this material can be tuned by an applied dc electrical bias. The latter allows for continuous variations in the sample resistivity of as much as 50% followed by a reversible resistive switching at higher biases. Such a switching is of high interest for antiferromagnetic applications in high-speed memory devices. Interestingly, we found the switching behavior to be strongly affected by a high-frequency (microwave) current applied to the sample. The microwaves at 3-7 GHz suppress the dc switching and produce resonancelike features that we tentatively associated with the dissipationless magnonics recently predicted to occur in antiferromagnetic insulators subject to ac electric fields. We have characterized the effects of microwave irradiation on electronic transport in S r3I r2O7 as a function of microwave frequency and power, strength and direction of external magnetic field, strength and polarity of applied dc bias, and temperature. Our observations support the potential of antiferromagnetic materials for high-speed/high-frequency spintronic applications.

La matério-vigilance dans un Centre Hospitalo-Universitaire du Centre-Est tunisien: enquête auprès des médecins

PubMed Central

Mahjoub, Mohamed; Jedidi, Maher; Masmoudi, Tasnim; Bouafia, Nabiha; Njah, Mansour

2016-01-01

Introduction Pour la meilleure gestion des risques en milieu hospitalier et l’amélioration de la qualité et la sécurité de nos soins, le CHU de Sousse (Tunisie), a mis en place, suite aux recommandations de l’ANCSEP (Agence Nationale de Contrôle Sanitaire et Environnementale des Produits) un système de matério-vigilance (MV). En Tunisie l’absence d’un cadre réglementaire organisant la MV est l’obstacle majeur à l’implication des soignants à ce système. L’objectif de cette étude est de déterminer les connaissances, attitudes et pratiques des médecins du CHU quant à la mise en place du système de MV. Méthodes Etude descriptive de type CAP (connaissances, attitudes et pratiques) transversale auprès de tous les médecins titulaires exerçant au CHU de Sousse (Tunisie) qui sont utilisateurs des dispositifs médicaux (DMs) lors de leur pratique d’activité de soin. Un questionnaire auto-administré, préétabli et pré-testé a été établi. Saisie et l’analysée des données par logiciel SPSS20.0. Résultats Le taux de réponse de 51,9 % (183/95), un manque des connaissances relatif à la MV a été rapporté. Plus de la moitié des répondants ne connaissent pas le correspondant local de son établissement et l’existence d’un formulaire standardisé de signalement. Concernant les attitudes, 89,5 % notifient l’intérêt de mise en place du système de MV et 37,5 % reconnaissent que le signalement doit émaner du soignant constatant l’incident. Pour les pratiques, la majorité confirment l’absence d’une gestion organisée de la maintenance des DMs dans leurs services. 90,5 % expriment leurs souhaits de recevoir une information mais peu d’entre eux expriment leurs désirs de suivre une formation (57,9 %). Conclusion Un manque d’information et de formation dans un domaine pourtant sensible et devant être lourdement réglementé est soulevé. La promulgation de textes réglementaires est nécessaire afin de promouvoir le

Up-Regulation of MiR-300 Promotes Proliferation and Invasion of Osteosarcoma by Targeting BRD7

PubMed Central

Xue, Zhen; Zhao, Jindong; Niu, Liyuan; An, Gang; Guo, Yashan; Ni, Linying

2015-01-01

Increasing reports suggest that deregulated microRNAs (miRNAs) might provide novel therapeutic targets for cancers. However, the expression and function of miR-300 in osteosarcoma is still unknown. In our study, we found that the expression of miR-300 was up-regulated in osteosarcoma tissues and cells compared with paired adjacent non-tumor bone tissues and osteoblastic cells using RT-qPCR. The enforced expression of miR-300 could promote cell proliferation, invasion and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Moreover, we identified that bromodomain-containing protein 7 (BRD7), a new tumor suppressor gene, was a direct target of miR-300. Ectopic expression of BRD7 could significantly inhibit miR-300-promoted proliferation, invasion and EMT. Therefore, our results identify an important role for miR-300 in osteosarcoma through regulating BRD7 expression. PMID:26010572

Up-Regulation of MiR-300 Promotes Proliferation and Invasion of Osteosarcoma by Targeting BRD7.

PubMed

Xue, Zhen; Zhao, Jindong; Niu, Liyuan; An, Gang; Guo, Yashan; Ni, Linying

2015-01-01

Increasing reports suggest that deregulated microRNAs (miRNAs) might provide novel therapeutic targets for cancers. However, the expression and function of miR-300 in osteosarcoma is still unknown. In our study, we found that the expression of miR-300 was up-regulated in osteosarcoma tissues and cells compared with paired adjacent non-tumor bone tissues and osteoblastic cells using RT-qPCR. The enforced expression of miR-300 could promote cell proliferation, invasion and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Moreover, we identified that bromodomain-containing protein 7 (BRD7), a new tumor suppressor gene, was a direct target of miR-300. Ectopic expression of BRD7 could significantly inhibit miR-300-promoted proliferation, invasion and EMT. Therefore, our results identify an important role for miR-300 in osteosarcoma through regulating BRD7 expression.

7. Anthony Bley, Photographer September, 1976 L TO R: TWO ...

Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

7. Anthony Bley, Photographer September, 1976 L TO R: TWO CHICKEN HOUSES, PIG BARN, MILKSHED, BARN - Dundore Farm, State Route 183 & Church Road vicinity, Penn Township (moved to Brownsville vicinity, Lower Heidelberg Township, Berks County), Mount Pleasant, Berks County, PA

IL-7 and CD4 T Follicular Helper Cells in HIV-1 Infection

PubMed Central

Chiodi, Francesca; Bekele, Yonas; Lantto Graham, Rebecka; Nasi, Aikaterini

2017-01-01

IL-7 was previously shown to upregulate the expression of molecules important for interaction of CD4+ T cells with B cells. It is poorly studied whether IL-7 has a role in the biology of T follicular helper (Tfh) cells and whether IL-7 dysregulates the expression of B-cell costimulatory molecules on Tfh cells. We review the literature and provide arguments in favor of IL-7 being involved in the biology of human Tfh cells. The CD127 IL-7 receptor is expressed on circulating Tfh and non-Tfh cells, and we show that IL-7, but not IL-6 or IL-21, upregulates the expression of CD70 and PD-1 on these cells. We conclude that IL-7, a cytokine whose level is elevated during HIV-1 infection, may have a role in increased expression of B cell costimulatory molecules on Tfh cells and lead to abnormal B cell differentiation. PMID:28473831

IL-7 and CD4 T Follicular Helper Cells in HIV-1 Infection.

PubMed

Chiodi, Francesca; Bekele, Yonas; Lantto Graham, Rebecka; Nasi, Aikaterini

2017-01-01

IL-7 was previously shown to upregulate the expression of molecules important for interaction of CD4+ T cells with B cells. It is poorly studied whether IL-7 has a role in the biology of T follicular helper (Tfh) cells and whether IL-7 dysregulates the expression of B-cell costimulatory molecules on Tfh cells. We review the literature and provide arguments in favor of IL-7 being involved in the biology of human Tfh cells. The CD127 IL-7 receptor is expressed on circulating Tfh and non-Tfh cells, and we show that IL-7, but not IL-6 or IL-21, upregulates the expression of CD70 and PD-1 on these cells. We conclude that IL-7, a cytokine whose level is elevated during HIV-1 infection, may have a role in increased expression of B cell costimulatory molecules on Tfh cells and lead to abnormal B cell differentiation.

P2X7R is involved in the progression of atherosclerosis by promoting NLRP3 inflammasome activation

PubMed Central

PENG, KUANG; LIU, LUSHAN; WEI, DANGHENG; LV, YUNCHENG; WANG, GANG; XIONG, WENHAO; WANG, XIAOQING; ALTAF, AFRASYAB; WANG, LILI; HE, DAN; WANG, HONGYAN; QU, PENG

2015-01-01

Purinergic 2X7 receptor (P2X7R) and nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) are expressed in macrophages in atherosclerotic lesions. However, the mechanisms through which P2X7R participates in the inflammatory response in atherosclerosis remain largely unknown. The aim of the present study was to investigate the role of P2X7R in atherosclerosis and the mechanisms of action of the NLRP3 inflammasome following stimulation with oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL). We observed the expression and distribution of P2X7R in the atherosclerotic plaque in the coronary arteries from an autopsy specimen and in that of the aortic sinuses of apoE−/− mice by immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence staining. The specificity of short interfering RNA (siRNA) was used to suppress P2X7R and NLRP3 mRNA expression. RT-qPCR and western blot analysis were used to analyze mRNA and protein expression, respectively. Co-immunoprecipitation was used to examine the interaction between protein kinase R (PKR) phosphorylation and NLRP3. P2X7R and NLRP3 were expressed at high levels in the atherosclerotic plaque in the coronary arteries. Stimulation with oxLDL upregulated P2X7R, NLRP3 and interleukin (IL)-1β expression. P2X7R knockdown by siRNA suppressed NLRP3 inflammasome activation by inhibiting the PKR phosphorylation mediated by oxLDL. In the atherosclerotic lesions in the aortic sinuses of apoE−/− mice, P2X7R expression was found at high levels. Moreover, P2X7R siRNA attenuated the development of atherosclerosis in the apoE−/− mice. In conclusion, our results demonstrate that P2X7R plays a significant role in the development of atherosclerosis and regulates NLRP3 inflammasome activation by promoting PKR phosphorylation. PMID:25761252

mGluR7 genetics and alcohol: intersection yields clues for addiction.

PubMed

Gyetvai, Beatrix; Simonyi, Agnes; Oros, Melinda; Saito, Mariko; Smiley, John; Vadász, Csaba

2011-06-01

Development of addiction to alcohol or other substances can be attributed in part to exposure-dependent modifications at synaptic efficacy leading to an organism which functions at an altered homeostatic setpoint. Genetic factors may also influence setpoints and the stability of the homeostatic system of an organism. Quantitative genetic analysis of voluntary alcohol drinking, and mapping of the involved genes in the quasi-congenic Recombinant QTL Introgression strain system, identified Eac2 as a Quantitative Trait Locus (QTL) on mouse chromosome 6 which explained 18% of the variance with an effect size of 2.09 g/kg/day alcohol consumption, and Grm7 as a quantitative trait gene underlying Eac2 [Vadasz et al. in Neurochem Res 32:1099-1112, 100, Genomics 90:690-702, 102]. In earlier studies, the product of Grm7 mGluR7, a G protein-coupled receptor, has been implicated in stress systems [Mitsukawa et al. in Proc Natl Acad Sci USA 102:18712-18717, 63], anxiety-like behaviors [Cryan et al. in Eur J Neurosci 17:2409-2417, 14], memory [Holscher et al. in Learn Mem 12:450-455, 26], and psychiatric disorders (e.g., [Mick et al. in Am J Med Genet B Neuropsychiatr Genet 147B:1412-1418, 61; Ohtsuki et al. in Schizophr Res 101:9-16, 72; Pergadia et al. in Paper presented at the 38th Annual Meeting of the Behavior Genetics Association, Louisville, Kentucky, USA, 76]. Here, in experiments with mice, we show that (1) Grm7 knockout mice express increased alcohol consumption, (2) sub-congenic, and congenic mice carrying a Grm7 variant characterized by higher Grm7 mRNA drink less alcohol, and show a tendency for higher circadian dark phase motor activity in a wheel running paradigm, respectively, and (3) there are significant genetic differences in Grm7 mRNA abundance in the mouse brain between congenic and background mice identifying brain areas whose function is implicated in addiction related processes. We hypothesize that metabotropic glutamate receptors may function as

Traitement préventif intermittent à la sulfadoxine – pyriméthamine du paludisme chez les femmes enceintes: efficacité et observance dans deux hôpitaux urbains du Burkina Faso

PubMed Central

Bamba, Sanata; Séré, Adama; Nikiéma, Rodrigues; Halidou, Tinto; Thiéba, Blandine; Dao, Blami; Guiguemdé, Robert Tinga

2013-01-01

Introduction La présente étude prospective se propose dévaluer l'efficacité thérapeutique du traitement préventif intermittent à la sulfadoxine - pyriméthamine et son observance chez la femme enceinte dans deux hôpitaux urbains au Burkina Faso. Méthodes Chaque femme répondant aux critères d'inclusion a été soumise à un questionnaire pour la collecte des données socio - démographiques et des renseignements sur la grossesse. A l'accouchement, une apposition placentaire a été réalisée systématiquement. La lecture a été faite au microscope à lobjectif 100 à immersion. Résultats Au total, 542 femmes ont été incluses avec un âge moyen de 26,0 ± 6,45 ans (extrêmes 13- 43 ans). Le taux de couverture du TPI à la sulfadoxine- pyriméthamine a été de 80%. Le taux d'infestation placentaire a été de 4,7%. Il a diminué avec le nombre de dose de traitement préventif intermittent. Il a augmenté cependant de juillet à octobre. De 42,9% en octobre, il a diminué significativement à 9,5% en novembre (p < 0,05). Le taux global de bonne d'observance a été de 55%. Il a augmenté avec l’âge (p < 0,05). Conclusion Le taux de couverture de la sulfadoxine - pyriméthamine a été de 80%. Ce résultat est en conformité avec les objectifs du plan stratégique 2006-2010 de lutte contre le paludisme au Burkina Faso, qui préconisait un taux de couverture en sulfadoxine - pyriméthamine de 80% pour 2010. L'augmentation de la fréquence d'infestation de juillet à octobre, serait liée à la recrudescence de la transmission palustre pendant la saison des pluies (mai-octobre). PMID:23717719

MiR-7-1 potentiated estrogen receptor agonists for functional neuroprotection in VSC4.1 motoneurons.

PubMed

Chakrabarti, M; Banik, N L; Ray, S K

2014-01-03

Protection of motoneurons is an important goal in the treatment of spinal cord injury (SCI). We tested whether neuroprotective microRNAs (miRs) like miR-206, miR-17, miR-21, miR-7-1, and miR-106a could enhance efficacy of estrogen receptor (ER) agonists such as 1,3,5-tris (4-hydroxyphenyl)-4-propyl-1H-pyrazole (PPT, ERα agonist), Way200070 (WAY, ERβ agonist), and estrogen (EST, ERα and ERβ agonist) in preventing apoptosis in the calcium ionophore (CI)-insulted ventral spinal cord 4.1 (VSC4.1) motoneurons. We determined that 200 nM CI induced 70% cell death. Treatment with 50 nM PPT, 100 nM WAY, and 150 nM EST induced overexpression of ERα, ERβ, and both receptors, respectively, at mRNA and protein levels. Treatment with ER agonists significantly upregulated miR-206, miR-17, and miR-7-1 in the CI-insulted VSC4.1 motoneurons. Transfection with miR-206, miR-17, or miR-7-1 mimic potentiated WAY or EST to inhibit apoptosis in the CI-insulted VSC4.1 motoneurons. Overexpression of miR-7-1 maximally increased efficacy of WAY and EST for down regulation of pro-apoptotic Bax and upregulation of anti-apoptotic Bcl-2. A search using microRNA database (miRDB) indicated that miR-7-1 could inhibit the expression of L-type Ca(2+) channel protein alpha 1C (CPα1C). miR-7-1 overexpression and WAY or EST treatment down regulated CPα1C but upregulated p-Akt to trigger cell survival signaling. The same therapeutic strategy increased expression of the Ca(2+)/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II beta (CaMKIIβ) and the phosphorylated cAMP response element binding protein (p-CREB) so as to promote Bcl-2 transcription. Whole cell membrane potential and mitochondrial membrane potential studies indicated that miR-7-1 highly potentiated EST to preserve functionality in the CI-insulted VSC4.1 motoneurons. In conclusion, our data indicated that miR-7-1 most significantly potentiated efficacy of EST for functional neuroprotection and this therapeutic strategy could be used in the future

Characterization of the R162W Kir7.1 mutation associated with snowflake vitreoretinopathy

PubMed Central

Zhang, Wei; Zhang, Xiaoming; Wang, Hui; Sharma, Anil K.; Edwards, Albert O.

2013-01-01

KCNJ13 encodes Kir7.1, an inwardly rectifying K+ channel that is expressed in multiple ion-transporting epithelia. A mutation in KCNJ13 resulting in an arginine-to-tryptophan change at residue 162 (R162W) of Kir7.1 was associated with snowflake vitreoretinal degeneration, an inherited autosomal-dominant disease characterized by vitreous degeneration and mild retinal degeneration. We used the Xenopus laevis oocyte expression system to assess the functional properties of the R162W (mutant) Kir7.1 channel and determine how wild-type (WT) Kir7.1 is affected by the presence of the mutant subunit. Recordings obtained via the two-electrode voltage-clamp technique revealed that injection of oocytes with mutant Kir7.1 cRNA resulted in currents and cation selectivity that were indistinguishable from those in water-injected oocytes, suggesting that the mutant protein does not form functional channels in the plasma membrane. Coinjection of oocytes with equal amounts of mutant and WT Kir7.1 cRNAs resulted in inward K+ and Rb+ currents with amplitudes that were ∼17% of those in oocytes injected with WT Kir7.1 cRNA alone, demonstrating a dominant-negative effect of the mutant subunit. Similar to oocytes injected with WT Kir7.1 cRNA alone, coinjected oocytes exhibited inwardly rectifying Rb+ currents that were more than seven times larger than K+ currents, indicating that mutant subunits did not alter Kir7.1 channel selectivity. Immunostaining of Xenopus oocytes or Madin-Darby canine kidney cells expressing mutant or WT Kir7.1 demonstrated distribution of both proteins primarily in the plasma membrane. Our data suggest that the R162W mutation suppresses Kir7.1 channel activity, possibly by negatively impacting gating by membrane phosphadidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate. PMID:23255580

Long-Term Heart Transplant Survival by Targeting the Ionotropic Purinergic Receptor P2X7

PubMed Central

Vergani, Andrea; Tezza, Sara; D’Addio, Francesca; Fotino, Carmen; Liu, Kaifeng; Niewczas, Monika; Bassi, Roberto; Molano, R. Damaris; Kleffel, Sonja; Petrelli, Alessandra; Soleti, Antonio; Ammirati, Enrico; Frigerio, Maria; Visner, Gary; Grassi, Fabio; Ferrero, Maria E.; Corradi, Domenico; Abdi, Reza; Ricordi, Camillo; Sayegh, Mohamed H.; Pileggi, Antonello; Fiorina, Paolo

2013-01-01

Background Heart transplantation is a lifesaving procedure for patients with end-stage heart failure. Despite much effort and advances in the field, current immunosuppressive regimens are still associated with poor long-term cardiac allograft outcomes as well as with the development of complications including infections and malignancies. The development of a novel, short-term and effective immunomodulatory protocol will thus be an important achievement. The purine adenosine 5′-triphosphate (ATP), released during cell damage/activation, is sensed by the ionotropic purinergic receptor P2X7 (P2X7R) on lymphocytes and regulates T cell activation. Novel clinical-grade P2X7R inhibitors are available, rendering the targeting of P2X7R a potential therapy in cardiac transplantation. Methods and Results We analyzed P2X7R expression in patients and mice and P2X7R targeting in murine recipients in the context of cardiac transplantation. Our data demonstrate that P2X7R is specifically upregulated in graft-infiltrating lymphocytes in cardiac-transplanted humans and mice. Short-term P2X7R targeting with periodate-oxidized ATP (oATP) promotes long-term cardiac transplant survival in 80% of murine recipients of a fully mismatched allograft. Long-term survival of cardiac transplants was associated with reduced T cell activation, Th1/Th17 differentiation and inhibition of STAT3 phosphorylation in T cells, thus leading to a reduced transplant infiltrate and coronaropathy. In vitro genetic upregulation of the P2X7R pathway was also shown to stimulate Th1/Th17 cell generation. Finally, P2X7R targeting halted the progression of coronaropathy in a murine model of chronic rejection as well. Conclusions P2X7R targeting is a novel clinically relevant strategy to prolong cardiac transplant survival. PMID:23250993

Mise au point du rheometre a cisaillement annulaire pour l'etude de rheologie d'un mastic bitumineux avec verre incorpore =

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

El Mansouri, Souleimane

Dans le domaine viscoelastique lineaire (VEL, domaine des petites deformations), le comportement thermomecanique du bitume et du mastic bitumineux (melange uniforme de bitume et de fillers) a ete caracterise au Laboratoire des Chaussees et Materiaux Bitumineux (LCMB) de l'Ecole de technologie superieure (ETS) avec l'appui de nos partenaires externes : la Societe des Alcools du Quebec (SAQ) et Eco Entreprises Quebec (EEQ). Les proprietes rheologiques des bitumes et des mastics ont ete mesurees grâce a un nouvel outil d'investigation appele, Rheometre a Cisaillement Annulaire (RCA), sous differentes conditions de chargement. Cet appareil permet non seulement de solliciter des eprouvettes de tailles importantes par rapport a celles utilisees lors des essais classiques, mais aussi d'effectuer des essais en conditions quasi-homogenes, ce qui permet de donner acces a la loi de comportement des materiaux. Les essais sont realises sur une large gamme de temperatures et de frequences (de -15 °C a 45°C et de 0,03Hz a 10 Hz). Cette etude a ete menee principalement pour comparer le comportement d'un bitume avec celui d'un mastic bitumineux dans le domaine des petites deformations. neanmoins, dans une seconde perspective, on s'interesse a l'influence des fillers de verre de post-consommation sur le comportement d'un mastic a faibles niveaux de deformations en comparant l'evolution des modules complexes de cisaillements (G*) d'un mastic avec fillers de verre et un mastic avec fillers conventionnels (calcaire). Enfin, le modele analogique 2S2P1D est utilise pour simuler le comportement viscoelastique lineaire des bitumes et des mastics bitumineux testes lors de la campagne experimentale.

Cooperative interplay of let-7 mimic and HuR with MYC RNA

PubMed Central

Gunzburg, Menachem J; Sivakumaran, Andrew; Pendini, Nicole R; Yoon, Je-Hyun; Gorospe, Myriam; Wilce, Matthew Cj; Wilce, Jacqueline A

2015-01-01

Both RNA-binding proteins (RBP) and miRNA play important roles in the regulation of mRNA expression, often acting together to regulate a target mRNA. In some cases the RBP and miRNA have been reported to act competitively, but in other instances they function cooperatively. Here, we investigated HuR function as an enhancer of let-7-mediated translational repression of c-Myc despite the separation of their binding sites. Using an in vitro system, we determined that a let-7 mimic, consisting of single-stranded (ss)DNA complementary to the let-7 binding site, enhanced the affinity of HuR for a 122-nt MYC RNA encompassing both binding sites. This finding supports the biophysical principle of cooperative binding by an RBP and miRNA purely through interactions at distal mRNA binding sites. PMID:26177105

Cooperative interplay of let-7 mimic and HuR with MYC RNA.

PubMed

Gunzburg, Menachem J; Sivakumaran, Andrew; Pendini, Nicole R; Yoon, Je-Hyun; Gorospe, Myriam; Wilce, Matthew C J; Wilce, Jacqueline A

2015-01-01

Both RNA-binding proteins (RBP) and miRNA play important roles in the regulation of mRNA expression, often acting together to regulate a target mRNA. In some cases the RBP and miRNA have been reported to act competitively, but in other instances they function cooperatively. Here, we investigated HuR function as an enhancer of let-7-mediated translational repression of c-Myc despite the separation of their binding sites. Using an in vitro system, we determined that a let-7 mimic, consisting of single-stranded (ss)DNA complementary to the let-7 binding site, enhanced the affinity of HuR for a 122-nt MYC RNA encompassing both binding sites. This finding supports the biophysical principle of cooperative binding by an RBP and miRNA purely through interactions at distal mRNA binding sites.

HBA1c: clinical and biological agreement for standardization of assay methods. Report by the experts of ALFEDIAM (Association de Langue Française pour lEtude du Diabète et des Maladies Métabolique) and SFBC (Société Française de Biologie Clinique).

PubMed

Gillery, P; Bordas-Fonfrède, M; Chapelle, J P; Drouin, P; Hue, G; Lévy-Marchal, C; Périer, C; Sélam, J L; Slama, G; Thivolet, C; Vialettes, B

1999-09-01

Glycohaemoglobin, and particularly haemoglobin A1c(HbA1c), assays have been used for many years to retrospectively evaluate the glycaemic control of diabetic patients. Cut-off values have been established for deciding treatment modifications. The techniques used in the laboratories however exhibit varying quality, and all of them are not yet standardized. The consequence is an under-utilization of this test, especially in non-hospital practice. In this context, working groups of Société Française de Biologie Clinique (SFBC), Association de Langue Française pour l'Etude du Diabète et des Maladies Métaboliques (ALFEDIAM) and Société Française d'Endocrinologie (SFE) have met together, in order to analyze the national status, and to propose practical recommendations for implementing a standardization process on the basis of international experiences. It is recommended to exclusively express results as HbA1c percentage, using methods standardized and certified by comparison to reference methods such as those using Diabetes Control and Complications Trial (DCCT) values. Simultaneously, contacts have been established with manufacturers, and the realisation of periodic quality control surveys was encouraged.

Role of CTA1R7K-COL-DD as a novel therapeutic mucosal tolerance-inducing vector for treatment of collagen-induced arthritis.

PubMed

Hasselberg, Annemarie; Schön, Karin; Tarkowski, Andrej; Lycke, Nils

2009-06-01

To determine whether a cholera toxin-derived, novel immunomodulating fusion protein, CTA1R7K-COL-DD, carrying the class II major histocompatibility complex H-2q-restricted type II collagen peptide aa 259-274, can induce therapeutic tolerance and prevent collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) when administered intranasally in DBA/1 mice, and to assess whether ADP-ribosylation at the mucosal membranes exerts a regulatory function such that the outcome of tolerance or immune enhancement can be controlled. DBA/1 mice with CIA were treated intranasally with CTA1R7K-COL-DD. The therapeutic effect was monitored for 46 days after the onset of disease. Clinical scoring of disease, histologic examination of inflammation, and bone erosion were assessed, and cytokine levels were determined in the serum or supernatants from splenocytes stimulated with recall antigen. The protective effect of CTA1R7K-COL-DD resulted in roughly 60% of the mice having no clinical signs or histologic evidence of disease after treatment, and those with CIA had significantly milder disease with less bone erosion. The protective status was associated with lower serum titers of IgG1, IgG2a, IgG2b, and IgG3 anticollagen and a substantial decrease in the production of interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL-17, and interferon-gamma, while levels of IL-10 were markedly up-regulated both in the serum and at the T cell level. The enzymatically inactive mutant fusion protein CTA1R7K-COL-DD provided substantial therapeutic protection against CIA following intranasal administration. The mechanism behind the effect appears to be mediated by peptide-specific regulatory T cells induced by mucosal exposure to the peptide containing CTA1R7K-COL-DD vector. In addition, ADP-ribosylation at the mucosal membranes acts as a key regulator controlling mucosal tolerance or immunity.

Regulation of neurite morphogenesis by interaction between R7 regulator of G protein signaling complexes and G protein subunit Gα13.

PubMed

Scherer, Stephanie L; Cain, Matthew D; Kanai, Stanley M; Kaltenbronn, Kevin M; Blumer, Kendall J

2017-06-16

The R7 regulator of G protein signaling family (R7-RGS) critically regulates nervous system development and function. Mice lacking all R7-RGS subtypes exhibit diverse neurological phenotypes, and humans bearing mutations in the retinal R7-RGS isoform RGS9-1 have vision deficits. Although each R7-RGS subtype forms heterotrimeric complexes with Gβ 5 and R7-RGS-binding protein (R7BP) that regulate G protein-coupled receptor signaling by accelerating deactivation of G i/o α-subunits, several neurological phenotypes of R7-RGS knock-out mice are not readily explained by dysregulated G i/o signaling. Accordingly, we used tandem affinity purification and LC-MS/MS to search for novel proteins that interact with R7-RGS heterotrimers in the mouse brain. Among several proteins detected, we focused on Gα 13 because it had not been linked to R7-RGS complexes before. Split-luciferase complementation assays indicated that Gα 13 in its active or inactive state interacts with R7-RGS heterotrimers containing any R7-RGS isoform. LARG (leukemia-associated Rho guanine nucleotide exchange factor (GEF)), PDZ-RhoGEF, and p115RhoGEF augmented interaction between activated Gα 13 and R7-RGS heterotrimers, indicating that these effector RhoGEFs can engage Gα 13 ·R7-RGS complexes. Because Gα 13 /R7-RGS interaction required R7BP, we analyzed phenotypes of neuronal cell lines expressing RGS7 and Gβ 5 with or without R7BP. We found that neurite retraction evoked by Gα 12/13 -dependent lysophosphatidic acid receptors was augmented in R7BP-expressing cells. R7BP expression blunted neurite formation evoked by serum starvation by signaling mechanisms involving Gα 12/13 but not Gα i/o These findings provide the first evidence that R7-RGS heterotrimers interact with Gα 13 to augment signaling pathways that regulate neurite morphogenesis. This mechanism expands the diversity of functions whereby R7-RGS complexes regulate critical aspects of nervous system development and function. © 2017 by

Brain extraction in partial volumes T2*@7T by using a quasi-anatomic segmentation with bias field correction.

PubMed

Valente, João; Vieira, Pedro M; Couto, Carlos; Lima, Carlos S

2018-02-01

Poor brain extraction in Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) has negative consequences in several types of brain post-extraction such as tissue segmentation and related statistical measures or pattern recognition algorithms. Current state of the art algorithms for brain extraction work on weighted T1 and T2, being not adequate for non-whole brain images such as the case of T2*FLASH@7T partial volumes. This paper proposes two new methods that work directly in T2*FLASH@7T partial volumes. The first is an improvement of the semi-automatic threshold-with-morphology approach adapted to incomplete volumes. The second method uses an improved version of a current implementation of the fuzzy c-means algorithm with bias correction for brain segmentation. Under high inhomogeneity conditions the performance of the first method degrades, requiring user intervention which is unacceptable. The second method performed well for all volumes, being entirely automatic. State of the art algorithms for brain extraction are mainly semi-automatic, requiring a correct initialization by the user and knowledge of the software. These methods can't deal with partial volumes and/or need information from atlas which is not available in T2*FLASH@7T. Also, combined volumes suffer from manipulations such as re-sampling which deteriorates significantly voxel intensity structures making segmentation tasks difficult. The proposed method can overcome all these difficulties, reaching good results for brain extraction using only T2*FLASH@7T volumes. The development of this work will lead to an improvement of automatic brain lesions segmentation in T2*FLASH@7T volumes, becoming more important when lesions such as cortical Multiple-Sclerosis need to be detected. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Monkey liver cytochrome P450 2C19 is involved in R- and S-warfarin 7-hydroxylation.

PubMed

Hosoi, Yoshio; Uno, Yasuhiro; Murayama, Norie; Fujino, Hideki; Shukuya, Mitsunori; Iwasaki, Kazuhide; Shimizu, Makiko; Utoh, Masahiro; Yamazaki, Hiroshi

2012-12-15

Cynomolgus monkeys are widely used as primate models in preclinical studies. However, some differences are occasionally seen between monkeys and humans in the activities of cytochrome P450 enzymes. R- and S-warfarin are model substrates for stereoselective oxidation in humans. In this current research, the activities of monkey liver microsomes and 14 recombinantly expressed monkey cytochrome P450 enzymes were analyzed with respect to R- and S-warfarin 6- and 7-hydroxylation. Monkey liver microsomes efficiently mediated both R- and S-warfarin 7-hydroxylation, in contrast to human liver microsomes, which preferentially catalyzed S-warfarin 7-hydroxylation. R-Warfarin 7-hydroxylation activities in monkey liver microsomes were not inhibited by α-naphthoflavone or ketoconazole, and were roughly correlated with P450 2C19 levels and flurbiprofen 4-hydroxylation activities in microsomes from 20 monkey livers. In contrast, S-warfarin 7-hydroxylation activities were not correlated with the four marker drug oxidation activities used. Among the 14 recombinantly expressed monkey P450 enzymes tested, P450 2C19 had the highest activities for R- and S-warfarin 7-hydroxylations. Monkey P450 3A4 and 3A5 slowly mediated R- and S-warfarin 6-hydroxylations. Kinetic analysis revealed that monkey P450 2C19 had high V(max) and low K(m) values for R-warfarin 7-hydroxylation, comparable to those for monkey liver microsomes. Monkey P450 2C19 also mediated S-warfarin 7-hydroxylation with V(max) and V(max)/K(m) values comparable to those for recombinant human P450 2C9. R-warfarin could dock favorably into monkey P450 2C19 modeled. These results collectively suggest high activities for monkey liver P450 2C19 toward R- and S-warfarin 6- and 7-hydroxylation in contrast to the saturation kinetics of human P450 2C9-mediated S-warfarin 7-hydroxylation. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Miniature lowpass filters in low loss 9k7 LTCC

DOE PAGES

Dai, Steve; Hsieh, Lung -Hwa

2015-07-01

DuPont 9k7 low temperature cofired ceramic (LTCC) is a low loss, or high quality factor Q, tape system targeting at radio frequency (RF) applications. This paper reports the effect of a critical process parameter, heating rate, on the densification and dielectric properties of the 9k7 LTCC. The role of competing densification and crystallization during the sintering of 9k7 is discussed. The high Q of DuPont 9K7 can be used to improve RF system performance, for example a better receiver noise figure, by designing embedded passive RF components such as inductors, capacitors and filters. As a result, miniaturized multilayer low passmore » filters (LPF) with a wide stopband were fabricated to showcase the technology.« less

Miniature lowpass filters in low loss 9k7 LTCC

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

Dai, Steve; Hsieh, Lung -Hwa

DuPont 9k7 low temperature cofired ceramic (LTCC) is a low loss, or high quality factor Q, tape system targeting at radio frequency (RF) applications. This paper reports the effect of a critical process parameter, heating rate, on the densification and dielectric properties of the 9k7 LTCC. The role of competing densification and crystallization during the sintering of 9k7 is discussed. The high Q of DuPont 9K7 can be used to improve RF system performance, for example a better receiver noise figure, by designing embedded passive RF components such as inductors, capacitors and filters. As a result, miniaturized multilayer low passmore » filters (LPF) with a wide stopband were fabricated to showcase the technology.« less

IL-7Rαlow memory CD8+ T cells are significantly elevated in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus.

PubMed

Kim, Jung-Sik; Cho, Bon-A; Sim, Ji Hyun; Shah, Kamini; Woo, Connie M; Lee, Eun Bong; Lee, Dong-Sup; Kang, Jae Seung; Lee, Wang Jae; Park, Chung-Gyu; Craft, Joe; Kang, Insoo; Kim, Hang-Rae

2012-09-01

Human effector memory (EM) CD8(+) T cells include IL-7Rα(high) and IL-7Rα(low) cells with distinct cellular characteristics, including the expression of cytotoxic molecules. Both NK cells and the NK cell-associated molecule 2B4 that is expressed on CD8(+) T cells promote cytotoxicity. Here we analysed the expression of 2B4 on IL-7Rα(high) and IL-7Rα(low) EM CD8(+) T cells and its contribution to cytotoxicity. We also analysed the frequency of IL-7Rα(high) and IL-7Rα(low) EM CD8(+) T cells in patients with SLE or lupus and in healthy individuals given the potential role of cytotoxic CD8(+) T cells in the pathogenesis of lupus. We used flow cytometry to measure the expression of 2B4 on IL-7Rα(high) and IL-7Rα(low) EM CD8(+) T cells as well as the frequency of these cell populations in the peripheral blood of healthy individuals and patients with SLE. Also, 2B4-mediated cytotoxicity was quantitated in IL-7Rα(high) and IL-7Rα(low) EM CD8(+) T cells using target cells with CD48 antigen. We found that IL-7Rα(high) EM CD8(+) T cells had higher levels of 2B4 expression compared with IL-7Rα(low) EM CD8(+) T cells. Triggering 2B4 enhanced the cytotoxic function of IL-7Rα(low) EM CD8(+) T cells against target cells. We also noticed that patients with SLE had an increased frequency of IL-7Rα(low) EM CD8(+) T cells that correlated with disease manifestation. Our findings show that SLE patients have increased IL-7Rα(low) EM CD8(+) T cells, possibly contributing to tissue damage through 2B4-mediated cytotoxicity.

The B7 family of immunoregulatory receptors: A comparative and evolutionary perspective

USGS Publications Warehouse

Hansen, J.D.; Pasquier, L.D.; Lefranc, M.-P.; Lopez, V.; Benmansour, A.; Boudinot, P.

2009-01-01

In mammals, T cell activation requires specific recognition of the peptide-MHC complex by the TcR and co-stimulatory signals. Important co-stimulatory receptors expressed by T cells are the molecules of the CD28 family, that regulate T cell activation, proliferation and tolerance. These receptors recognize B7s and B7-homologous (B7H) molecules that are typically expressed by the antigen presenting cells. In teleost fish, typical T cell responses have been described and the TcR, MHC and CD28/CTLA4 genes have been characterized. In contrast, the members of the B7 gene family have only been described in mammals and birds and have yet to be addressed in lower vertebrates. To learn more about the evolution of components guiding T cell activation in vertebrates, we performed a systematic genomic survey for the B7 co-stimulatory and co-inhibitory IgSF receptors in lower vertebrates with an emphasis on teleost fish. Our search identified fish sequences that are orthologous to B7, B7-H1/B7-DC, B7-H3 and B7-H4 as defined by sequence identity, phylogeny and combinations of short or long-range syntenic relationships. However, we were unable to identify clear orthologs for B7-H2 (CD275, ICOS ligand) in bony fish, which correlates with our prior inability to find ICOS in fish. Interestingly, our results indicate that teleost fish possess a single B7.1/B7.2 (CD80/86) molecule that likely interacts with CD28/CTLA4 as the ligand-binding regions seem to be conserved in both partners. Overall, our analyses implies that gene duplication (and loss) have shaped a molecular repertoire of B7-like molecules that was recruited for the refinement of T cell activation during the evolution of the vertebrates.

Exploring structure and function of sensory cortex with 7T MRI.

PubMed

Schluppeck, Denis; Sanchez-Panchuelo, Rosa-Maria; Francis, Susan T

2018-01-01

In this paper, we present an overview of 7T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies of the detailed function and anatomy of sensory areas of the human brain. We discuss the motivation for the studies, with particular emphasis on increasing the spatial resolution of functional MRI (fMRI) using reduced field-of-view (FOV) data acquisitions. MRI at ultra-high-field (UHF) - defined here as 7T and above - has several advantages over lower field strengths. The intrinsic signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of images is higher at UHF, and coupled with the increased blood-oxygen-level-dependent (BOLD) signal change, this results in increased BOLD contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR), which can be exploited to improve spatial resolution or detect weaker signals. Additionally, the BOLD signal from the intra-vascular (IV) compartment is relatively diminished compared to lower field strengths. Together, these properties make 7T functional MRI an attractive proposition for high spatial specificity measures. But with the advantages come some challenges. For example, increased vulnerability to susceptibility-induced geometric distortions and signal loss in EPI acquisitions tend to be much larger. Some of these technical issues can be addressed with currently available tools and will be discussed. We highlight the key methodological considerations for high resolution functional and structural imaging at 7 T. We then present recent data using the high spatial resolution available at UHF in studies of the visual and somatosensory cortex to highlight promising developments in this area. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Characterization of FaDu-R, a radioresistant head and neck cancer cell line, and cancer stem cells.

PubMed

Cho, Kwang-Jae; Park, Eun-Ji; Kim, Min-Sik; Joo, Young-Hoon

2018-06-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of CSC on insensitivity to radiotherapy in HNSCC. A radioresistant cell line, FaDu-R, was established using fractionated ionizing radiation. Cells with high and low CD44/ALDH activity were isolated. FaDu-R cells demonstrated significantly increased cell viability after radiation exposure compared with parental cells. CD44 high /ALDH high FaDu-R cells demonstrated significantly faster wound closure (p<0.05) and more efficient invasion (p<0.05) compared to the CD44 high /ALDH high FaDu cells or the CD44 low /ALDH low FaDu-R cells. There was a significant difference in tumor volume between the CD44 high /ALDH high FaDu-R cells and the CD44 high /ALDH high FaDu cells (p<0.05) as well as the CD44 low /ALDH low FaDu-R cells (p<0.05). Cancer stem cells (CSC) were associated with invasion and tumorigenesis in a radioresistant head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) cell line. This concept might help to improve the understanding of these mechanisms and to develop drugs that can overcome radioresistance during radiotherapy. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

TRAV7-2*02 Expressing CD8+ T Cells Are Responsible for Palladium Allergy

PubMed Central

Takeda, Yuri; Suto, Yoshiko; Ito, Koyu; Hashimoto, Wataru; Nishiya, Tadashi; Ueda, Kyosuke; Narushima, Takayuki; Takahashi, Tetsu; Ogasawara, Kouetsu

2017-01-01

While metallic biomaterials have led to an improvement in the quality of life, metal allergies, especially to palladium (Pd), has caused a recent increase in allergic patients. Metal allergy is known to be a T cell-mediated delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH); however, the pathogenic T cell subsets and the specific T cell receptor (TCR) have not been identified. Therefore, we attempted to identify the pathogenic T cells responsible for Pd allergy. We found that activating CD8+ T cells significantly increased and that the TRAV (TCRα variable) 7-2*02 chain skewed in Pd allergic mice. Furthermore, adoptive transfer experiments revealed that in vitro-cultured Pd-stimulated antigen presenting cells (APCs) function as memory APCs with recipient mice developing Pd allergy and that the frequency of TRAV7-2*02 increases the same as conventional Pd allergic mice. In contrast, neither proliferation of CD8+ T cells nor increasing of TRAV7-2*02 was observed in major histocompatibility complex I (MHC I)-deficient Pd-APCs transferred to mice. Taken together, we revealed that TRAV7-2*02-expressing CD8+ T cells are the pathogenic T cells for the development of Pd allergy. We also identified the CDR3 consensus motif of pathogenic TCRs as CAAXSGSWQLIF in TRAV7-2*02/TRAJ (TCRα junction)22*01 positive cells. These results suggest that the specific TCRs represent novel targets for the development of diagnostics and treatments for metal allergy. PMID:28561797

Multi-turn multi-gap transmission line resonators - Concept, design and first implementation at 4.7T and 7T.

PubMed

Frass-Kriegl, Roberta; Laistler, Elmar; Hosseinnezhadian, Sajad; Schmid, Albrecht Ingo; Moser, Ewald; Poirier-Quinot, Marie; Darrasse, Luc; Ginefri, Jean-Christophe

2016-12-01

A novel design scheme for monolithic transmission line resonators (TLRs) is presented - the multi-turn multi-gap TLR (MTMG-TLR) design. The MTMG-TLR design enables the construction of TLRs with multiple turns and multiple gaps. This presents an additional degree of freedom in tuning self-resonant TLRs, as their resonance frequency is fully determined by the coil geometry (e.g. diameter, number of turns, conductor width, etc.). The novel design is evaluated at 4.7T and 7T by simulations and experiments, where it is demonstrated that MTMG-TLRs can be used for MRI, and that the B 1 distribution of MTMG-TLRs strongly depends on the number and distribution of turns. A comparison to conventional loop coils revealed that the B 1 performance of MTMG-TLRs is comparable to a loop coil with the same mean diameter; however, lower 10g SAR values were found for MTMG-TLRs. The MTMG-TLR design is expected to bring most benefits at high static field, where it allows for independent size and frequency selection, which cannot be achieved with standard TLR design. However, it also enables more accurate geometric optimization at low static field. Thereby, the MTMG-TLR design preserves the intrinsic advantages of TLRs, i.e. mechanical flexibility, high SAR efficiency, mass production, and coil miniaturization. Copyright © 2016 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Apigenin sensitizes hepatocellular carcinoma cells to doxorubic through regulating miR-520b/ATG7 axis.

PubMed

Gao, Ai-Mei; Zhang, Xiao-Yu; Hu, Juan-Ni; Ke, Zun-Ping

2018-01-25

Chemo-resistance is a serious obstacle for successful treatment of cancer. Apigenin, a dietary flavonoid, has been reported as an anticancer drug in various malignant cancers. This study aimed to investigate the potential chemo-sensitization effect of apigenin in doxorubicin-resistant hepatocellular carcinoma cell line BEL-7402/ADM. We observed that apigenin significantly enhanced doxorubicin sensitivity, induced miR-520b expression and inhibited ATG7-dependent autophagy in BEL-7402/ADM cells. In addition, we also showed that miR-520b mimics increased doxorubicin sensitivity and inhibited ATG7-dependent autophagy. Meanwhile, we indicated that ATG7 was a potential target of miR-520b. Furthermore, APG inhibited the growth of hepatocellar carcinoma xenografts in nude mice by up-regulating miR-520b and inhibiting ATG7. Our finding provides evidence that apigenin sensitizes BEL-7402/ADM cells to doxorubicin through miR-520b/ATG7 pathway, which furtherly supports apigenin as a potential chemo-sensitizer for hepatocellular carcinoma. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

46 CFR 35.40-7 - Carbon dioxide and clean agent alarms-T/ALL.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 46 Shipping 1 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Carbon dioxide and clean agent alarms-T/ALL. 35.40-7... Marking Requirements-TB/ALL § 35.40-7 Carbon dioxide and clean agent alarms—T/ALL. Each carbon dioxide or...: “WHEN ALARM SOUNDS VACATE AT ONCE. [CARBON DIOXIDE/CLEAN AGENT—as appropriate] BEING RELEASED.” [USCG...

46 CFR 35.40-7 - Carbon dioxide and clean agent alarms-T/ALL.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 46 Shipping 1 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Carbon dioxide and clean agent alarms-T/ALL. 35.40-7... Marking Requirements-TB/ALL § 35.40-7 Carbon dioxide and clean agent alarms—T/ALL. Each carbon dioxide or...: “WHEN ALARM SOUNDS VACATE AT ONCE. [CARBON DIOXIDE/CLEAN AGENT—as appropriate] BEING RELEASED.” [USCG...

B7-H4 as a Target for Breast Cancer Immunotherapy

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-06-01

lymphoma and leukemia cell lines. CEM, Karpas 299, and TLBR -1, cell lines derived from acute T-cell lymphoblastic leukemia, large cell anaplastic...Accomplishments  Generation of human B7-H4-Fc fusion protein (antigen).  Discovery of a B7-H4 receptor on CEM, Karpas 299, and TLBR -1 cell lines...CEM Karpas 299 TLBR -1 Jurkat B7-H4R Figure 3. B7-H4 binding to human T-cell lymphoma cell lines. Red

Immunogenicity of T7 bacteriophage nanoparticles displaying G-H loop of foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV).

PubMed

Xu, Hai; Bao, Xi; Lu, Yu; Liu, Yamei; Deng, Bihua; Wang, Yiwei; Xu, Yue; Hou, Jibo

2017-06-01

Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is a highly contagious disease of cloven-hoofed animals that causes severe economic losses worldwide. The G-H loop of the FMDV VP1 structural protein is the major neutralizing antigenic site. However, a fully protective G-H loop peptide vaccine requires the addition of promiscuous Th sites from a source outside VP1. Thus, we demonstrated the potential of T7 bacteriophage based nanoparticles displaying a genetically fused G-H loop peptide (T7-GH) as a FMDV vaccine candidate. Recombinant T7-GH phage was constructed by inserting the G-H loop coding region into the T7 Select 415-1b vector. Purified T7-GH phage nanoparticles were analyzed by SDS-PAGE, Western blot and Dot-ELISA. Pigs seronegative for FMDV exposure were immunized with T7-GH nanoparticles along with the adjuvant Montanide ISA206, and two commercially available FMDV vaccines (InactVac and PepVac). Humoral and cellular immune responses, as well as protection against virulent homologous virus challenge were assessed following single dose immunization. Pigs immunized T7-GH developed comparable anti-VP1 antibody titers to PepVac, although lower LPBE titers than was induced by InactVac. Antigen specific lymphocyte proliferation was detected in T7-GH group similar to that of PepVac group, however, weaker than InactVac group. Pigs immunized with T7-GH developed a neutralizing antibody response stronger than PepVac, but weaker than InactVac. Furthermore, 80% (4/5) of T7-GH immunized pigs were protected from challenge with virulent homologous virus. These findings demonstrate that the T7-GH phage nanoparticles were effective in eliciting antigen specific immune responses in pigs, highlighting the value of such an approach in the research and development of FMDV vaccines. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

States of phage T3/T7 capsids: buoyant density centrifugation and cryo-EM.

PubMed

Serwer, Philip; Wright, Elena T; Demeler, Borries; Jiang, Wen

2018-04-01

Mature double-stranded DNA bacteriophages have capsids with symmetrical shells that typically resist disruption, as they must to survive in the wild. However, flexibility and associated dynamism assist function. We describe biochemistry-oriented procedures used to find previously obscure flexibility for capsids of the related phages, T3 and T7. The primary procedures are hydration-based buoyant density ultracentrifugation and purified particle-based cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM). We review the buoyant density centrifugation in detail. The mature, stable T3/T7 capsid is a shell flexibility-derived conversion product of an initially assembled procapsid (capsid I). During DNA packaging, capsid I expands and loses a scaffolding protein to form capsid II. The following are observations made with capsid II. (1) The in vivo DNA packaging of wild type T3 generates capsid II that has a slight (1.4%), cryo-EM-detected hyper-expansion relative to the mature phage capsid. (2) DNA packaging in some altered conditions generates more extensive hyper-expansion of capsid II, initially detected by hydration-based preparative buoyant density centrifugation in Nycodenz density gradients. (3) Capsid contraction sometimes occurs, e.g., during quantized leakage of DNA from mature T3 capsids without a tail.

Low-field spin dynamics of Cr7Ni and Cr7Ni-Cu -Cr 7Ni molecular rings as detected by μ SR

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sanna, S.; Arosio, P.; Bordonali, L.; Adelnia, F.; Mariani, M.; Garlatti, E.; Baines, C.; Amato, A.; Sabareesh, K. P. V.; Timco, G.; Winpenny, R. E. P.; Blundell, S. J.; Lascialfari, A.

2017-11-01

Muon spin rotation measurements were used to investigate the spin dynamics of heterometallic Cr7Ni and Cr7Ni -Cu-Cr7Ni molecular clusters. In Cr7Ni the magnetic ions are arranged in a quasiplanar ring and interact via an antiferromagnetic exchange coupling constant J , while Cr7Ni -Cu-Cr7Ni is composed of two Cr7Ni linked by a bridging moiety containing one Cu ion, that induces an inter-ring ferromagnetic interaction J'≪J . The longitudinal muon relaxation rate λ collected at low magnetic fields μ0H <0.15 Tesla, shows that the two systems present differences in spin dynamics vs temperature. While both samples exhibit a main peak in the muon relaxation rate vs temperature, at T ˜10 K for Cr7Ni and T ˜8 K for Cr7Ni -Cu-Cr7Ni , the two compounds have distinct additional features: Cr7Ni shows a shoulder in λ (T ) for T <8 K, while Cr7Ni -Cu-Cr7Ni shows a flattening of λ (T ) for T <2 K down to temperatures as low as T =20 mK. The main peak of both systems is explained by a Bloembergen-Purcell-Pound (BPP)-like heuristic fitting model that takes into account of a distribution of electronic spin characteristic times for T >5 K, while the shoulder presented by Cr7Ni can be reproduced by a BPP function that incorporates a single electronic characteristic time theoretically predicted to dominate for T <5 K. The flattening of λ (T ) in Cr7Ni -Cu-Cr7Ni occurring at very low temperature can be tentatively attributed to field-dependent quantum effects and/or to an inelastic term in the spectral density of the electronic spin fluctuations.

MiR-let-7a inhibits cell proliferation, migration, and invasion by down-regulating PKM2 in cervical cancer

PubMed Central

Guo, Man; Zhao, Xinying; Yuan, Xiaolei; Jiang, Jing; Li, Peiling

2017-01-01

In recent decades, miRNA has been reported as a crucial modulator in some biology progressions. This work aims to assess the expression and role of miR-let-7a and pyruvate kinase muscle isozyme M2 (PKM2) in CC tissues and cell lines. Here, we identified that miR-let-7a expression was decreased in CC tissues, and SiHa and HeLa cells (all P < 0.001), however, PKM2 expression was increased in these samples. Statistically, miR-let-7a was inversely associated with PKM2 mRNA or protein (p = 0.013, p = 0.015, respectively). In-vitro assays revealed that ectopic miR-let-7a expression repressed SiHa and HeLa cell proliferation, migration and invasion, and enhanced SiHa and HeLa cell apoptosis. Furthermore, luciferase reporter assays revealed the 3′-UTR of PKM2 was identified a target of miR-let-7a, by which miR-let-7a affected the expression of PKM2 in SiHa and HeLa cells. Besides, PKM2 plasmids partially abrogated the inhibitory effects of miR-let-7a, while si-PKM2 enhanced the inhibitory effects of miR-let-7a. In vivo, miR-let-7a mimics indeed repressed tumor growth in mice xenograft model. In conclusion, our results demonstrated that miR-let-7a inhibits cell proliferation, migration and invasion by down-regulation of PKM2 in cervical cancer. miR-let-7a/PKM2 pathway may be a useful therapeutic target for CC patients. PMID:28415668

26 CFR 1.414(r)-7 - Determination of the employees of an employer's qualified separate lines of business.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... qualified separate lines of business. 1.414(r)-7 Section 1.414(r)-7 Internal Revenue INTERNAL REVENUE..., Profit-Sharing, Stock Bonus Plans, Etc. § 1.414(r)-7 Determination of the employees of an employer's... residual shared employee as defined in § 1.414(r)-11(b)(2) and (4)) is assigned to a single qualified...

26 CFR 1.414(r)-7 - Determination of the employees of an employer's qualified separate lines of business.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... qualified separate lines of business. 1.414(r)-7 Section 1.414(r)-7 Internal Revenue INTERNAL REVENUE..., Profit-Sharing, Stock Bonus Plans, Etc. § 1.414(r)-7 Determination of the employees of an employer's... residual shared employee as defined in § 1.414(r)-11(b)(2) and (4)) is assigned to a single qualified...

26 CFR 1.414(r)-7 - Determination of the employees of an employer's qualified separate lines of business.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... qualified separate lines of business. 1.414(r)-7 Section 1.414(r)-7 Internal Revenue INTERNAL REVENUE..., Profit-Sharing, Stock Bonus Plans, Etc. § 1.414(r)-7 Determination of the employees of an employer's... residual shared employee as defined in § 1.414(r)-11(b)(2) and (4)) is assigned to a single qualified...

26 CFR 1.414(r)-7 - Determination of the employees of an employer's qualified separate lines of business.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... qualified separate lines of business. 1.414(r)-7 Section 1.414(r)-7 Internal Revenue INTERNAL REVENUE..., Profit-Sharing, Stock Bonus Plans, Etc. § 1.414(r)-7 Determination of the employees of an employer's... residual shared employee as defined in § 1.414(r)-11(b)(2) and (4)) is assigned to a single qualified...

26 CFR 1.414(r)-7 - Determination of the employees of an employer's qualified separate lines of business.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... qualified separate lines of business. 1.414(r)-7 Section 1.414(r)-7 Internal Revenue INTERNAL REVENUE...-Sharing, Stock Bonus Plans, Etc. § 1.414(r)-7 Determination of the employees of an employer's qualified... residual shared employee as defined in § 1.414(r)-11(b)(2) and (4)) is assigned to a single qualified...

B7-H1 expression is associated with expansion of regulatory T cells in colorectal carcinoma

PubMed Central

Hua, Dong; Sun, Jing; Mao, Yong; Chen, Lu-Jun; Wu, Yu-Yu; Zhang, Xue-Guang

2012-01-01

AIM: To investigate the expression of B7-H1 in human colorectal carcinoma (CRC) to define its regulating effects on T cells in tumor microenvironment. METHODS: One hundred and two paraffin blocks and 33 fresh samples of CRC tissues were subject to this study. Immunohistochemistry was performed for B7-H1 and CD3 staining in CRC tissues. Ficoll-Hypaque density gradient centrifugation was used to isolate peripheral blood mononuclear cells of fresh CRC tissues; flow cytometry and immunofluorescence staining were used for detection of regulatory T cells. Data was analyzed with statistical software. RESULTS: Costimulatory molecule B7-H1 was found strongly expressed in CRC tissues, localized in tumor cell membrane and cytoplasm, while weak or none expression of B7-H1 was detected in pared normal colorectal tissues. Meanwhile, CD3 positive T cells were found congregated in CRC tumor nest and stroma. Statistic analysis showed that B7-H1 expression level was negatively correlated to the total T cell density in tumor nest (P < 0.0001) and tumor stroma (P = 0.0200) of 102 cases of CRC tissues. Among the total T cells, a variable amount of regulatory T cells with a clear Foxp3+ (forkhead box P3) staining could be detected in CRC tissues and patients’ blood. Interestingly, in the 33 samples (15 cases of B7-H1high CRC tissues and 18 cases of B7-H1low CRC tissues) of freshly isolated mononuclear cells from CRC tissues, the percentages of CD4+Foxp3+ and CD8+Foxp3+ regulatory T cells were found remarkably higher in B7-H1high CRC tissues than in B7-H1low CRC tissues (P = 0.0024, P = 0.0182), indicating that B7-H1 expression was involved in proliferation of regulatory T cell. No significant difference was found in CRC peripheral blood (P = 0.0863, P = 0.0678). PD-1 is the specific ligand for B7-H1 pathway transferring inhibitory signal to T cell, which is expressed by activated T cell. Our further analysis of PD-1 expression on T cells in CRC tissues showed that conventional T cells

B7-H1 expression is associated with expansion of regulatory T cells in colorectal carcinoma.

PubMed

Hua, Dong; Sun, Jing; Mao, Yong; Chen, Lu-Jun; Wu, Yu-Yu; Zhang, Xue-Guang

2012-03-07

To investigate the expression of B7-H1 in human colorectal carcinoma (CRC) to define its regulating effects on T cells in tumor microenvironment. One hundred and two paraffin blocks and 33 fresh samples of CRC tissues were subject to this study. Immunohistochemistry was performed for B7-H1 and CD3 staining in CRC tissues. Ficoll-Hypaque density gradient centrifugation was used to isolate peripheral blood mononuclear cells of fresh CRC tissues; flow cytometry and immunofluorescence staining were used for detection of regulatory T cells. Data was analyzed with statistical software. Costimulatory molecule B7-H1 was found strongly expressed in CRC tissues, localized in tumor cell membrane and cytoplasm, while weak or none expression of B7-H1 was detected in pared normal colorectal tissues. Meanwhile, CD3 positive T cells were found congregated in CRC tumor nest and stroma. Statistic analysis showed that B7-H1 expression level was negatively correlated to the total T cell density in tumor nest (P < 0.0001) and tumor stroma (P = 0.0200) of 102 cases of CRC tissues. Among the total T cells, a variable amount of regulatory T cells with a clear Foxp3⁺ (forkhead box P3) staining could be detected in CRC tissues and patients' blood. Interestingly, in the 33 samples (15 cases of B7-H1(high) CRC tissues and 18 cases of B7-H1(low) CRC tissues) of freshly isolated mononuclear cells from CRC tissues, the percentages of CD4⁺Foxp3⁺ and CD8⁺Foxp3⁺ regulatory T cells were found remarkably higher in B7-H1(high) CRC tissues than in B7-H1(low) CRC tissues (P = 0.0024, P = 0.0182), indicating that B7-H1 expression was involved in proliferation of regulatory T cell. No significant difference was found in CRC peripheral blood (P = 0.0863, P = 0.0678). PD-1 is the specific ligand for B7-H1 pathway transferring inhibitory signal to T cell, which is expressed by activated T cell. Our further analysis of PD-1 expression on T cells in CRC tissues showed that conventional T cells (CD4�

The role of IL-1beta in reduced IL-7 production by stromal and epithelial cells: a model for impaired T-cell numbers in the gut during HIV-1 infection.

PubMed

Thang, P H; Ruffin, N; Brodin, D; Rethi, B; Cam, P D; Hien, N T; Lopalco, L; Vivar, N; Chiodi, F

2010-08-01

Interleukin (IL)-7 is a key cytokine in T-cell homeostasis. Stromal cells, intestinal epithelial cells and keratinocytes are known to produce this cytokine. The mechanisms and cellular factors regulating IL-7 production are still unclear. We assessed whether IL-1beta and interferon (IFN)-gamma, cytokines produced during inflammatory conditions, may impact on IL-7 production. We used human intestinal epithelial cells (DLD-1 cell line) and bone marrow stromal cells (HS27 cell line), known to produce IL-7; IL-7 production was evaluated at the mRNA and protein levels. To assess whether treatment of HS27 cells with IL-1beta and/or IFN-gamma leads to changes in the gene expression of cytokines, Toll-like receptors (TLRs) and chemokines, we analysed gene expression profiles using the whole-genome microarray Human Gene 1.0 ST. We found that IFN-gamma enhanced the expression of IL-7 mRNA (P < 0.001) in both cell lines. IL-1beta treatment led to a significant down-regulation (P < 0.001) of IL-7 mRNA expression in both cell lines. The IL-7 concentration in supernatants collected from treated DLD-1 and HS27 cell cultures reflected the trend of IL-7 mRNA levels. The gene profiles revealed dramatic changes in expression of cytokines and their receptors (IL-7/IL-7R alpha; IL-1alpha,IL-1beta/IL-1R1; IFN-gamma/IFN-gammaR1), of IFN regulatory factors (IRF-1 and 2), of TLRs and of important chemo-attractants for T cells. The microarray results were verified by additional methods. Our results are discussed in the setting of inflammation and T-cell survival in the gut compartment during HIV-1 infection where stromal and epithelial cells may produce factors that contribute to impaired IL-7 homeostasis and homing of T cells.

Unclassified Publications of Lincoln Laboratory. Volume 7

DTIC Science & Technology

1979-12-15

4984 IA-4774, JA-4846, .)A-4849, JA-41)38; ADAPTIVE ARRAY MS-4856 TN-1978- 1 , TN-1979-8 ALTAIR ADAPTIVE CONTROL TN-1978-6, TN-1979-41; .IA-4952 MS-5090...8217 ~CI. ,\\ SS IFIEIJ Pl i UI.ICATIO~ S OF 1 . 1 ’ c : o 1 . \\ 1 . .\\ n o n ,, T o n Y VOLUME 7 15 DECEMBER 1979 Requests for informat ion should be...L I ’:-J C 0 L \\ L .-\\ B 0 R :\\ T 0 R Y L 1 :::\\ I \\ G T 0 \\. \\ 1 .-\\ ~ S :\\ C H l S E T T S The work liste~ in this bibliography was performed at

Myh7b/miR-499 gene expression is transcriptionally regulated by MRFs and Eos

PubMed Central

Yeung, Fan; Chung, Eunhee; Guess, Martin G.; Bell, Matthew L.; Leinwand, Leslie A.

2012-01-01

The sarcomeric myosin gene, Myh7b, encodes an intronic microRNA, miR-499, which regulates cardiac and skeletal muscle biology, yet little is known about its transcriptional regulation. To identify the transcription factors involved in regulating Myh7b/miR-499 gene expression, we have mapped the transcriptional start sites and identified an upstream 6.2 kb region of the mouse Myh7b gene whose activity mimics the expression pattern of the endogenous Myh7b gene both in vitro and in vivo. Through promoter deletion analysis, we have mapped a distal E-box element and a proximal Ikaros site that are essential for Myh7b promoter activity in muscle cells. We show that the myogenic regulatory factors, MyoD, Myf5 and Myogenin, bind to the E-box, while a lymphoid transcription factor, Ikaros 4 (Eos), binds to the Ikaros motif. Further, we show that through physical interaction, MyoD and Eos form an active transcriptional complex on the chromatin to regulate the expression of the endogenous Myh7b/miR-499 gene in muscle cells. We also provide the first evidence that Eos can regulate expression of additional myosin genes (Myosin 1 and β-Myosin) via the miR-499/Sox6 pathway. Therefore, our results indicate a novel role for Eos in the regulation of the myofiber gene program. PMID:22638570

IUE observations of circumstellar emission from the late type variable R Aquarii /M7 + pec/

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Michalitsianos, A. G.; Hobbs, R. W.; Kafatos, M.

1980-01-01

IUE observations of R Aquarii (M7 + pec) have been obtained in low dispersion in order to study its circumstellar emission. Strong permitted, semiforbidden, and forbidden emission lines are identified that are superposed on a bright ultraviolet continuum. From the analysis it is deduced that the strong emission-line spectrum that involves semiforbidden C III, C IV, semiforbidden Si III, forbidden O II, and forbidden O III probably arises from a dense compact nebula the size of which is comparable to the binary system of which R Aqr is the primary star. Low-excitation emission lines of Fe II, Mg II, O I, and Si II suggest the presence of a warm chromosphere (T less than about 10,000 K) in the primary M7 late type giant. The secondary is identified as a white dwarf, comparable to or somewhat brighter than the sun, since such a star can produce enough ionizing photons to excite the continuum and emission-line spectrum and yet be sufficiently faint to escape detection by direct observation. The UV continuum observed is attributed to Balmer recombination and not to blackbody emission from the hot companion. The general spectral properties of R Aqr between 1200 A and 3200 A are discussed in the context of the model for the circumstellar nebula, the companion, and the mass-loss rate of the primary star.

L'Aventure du LHC

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

None

2010-06-11

Cette présentation s’adressera principalement aux personnes qui ont construit le LHC. La construction du LHC fut longue et difficile. De nombreux problèmes sont apparus en cours de route. Tous ont été résolus grâce au dévouement et à l’engagement du personnel et des collaborateurs. Je reviendrai sur les coups durs et les réussites qui ont marqués ces 15 dernières années et je vous montrerai combien cette machine, le fruit de vos efforts, est extraordinaire.

Profil bactériologique du pied diabétique et son impact sur le choix des antibiotiques

PubMed Central

Zemmouri, Adil; Tarchouli, Mohamed; Benbouha, Abdellatif; Lamkinsi, Tarik; Bensghir, Mustapha; Elouennass, Mostafa; Haimeur, Cherqui

2015-01-01

Introduction Analyse du profil bactériologique des pieds diabétiques pris en charge à l'hôpital militaire de Rabat et son influence sur l'antibiothérapie de première intention. Méthodes Etude prospective non randomisée étalée sur 18 mois, ayant concerné 105 patients. Après recueil des données et en attente des résultats bactériologiques nos patients ont été divisés en deux groupes: un groupe a été mis sous Amoxicilline + Acide clavulanique + Gentamycine (59 patients) et un groupe sous Ertapénème±Gentamycine (46 patients). Résultats L’étude a regroupé 85 hommes et 20 femmes (sexe ratio = 4.26). L’âge moyen est de 64.4 ans. La gangrène a été observée chez 79% des malades; elle était humide-donc surinfectée en principe- dans 43% des cas. Par ailleurs, 67% des malades ont un chiffre de globules blancs 12000 définissant une infection sévère. L'ostéolyse a été mise en évidence chez 27% de nos patients. Parmi les différentes techniques de prélèvements: 81% ont été profonds dont 21% de biopsie osseuse per opératoire et 14% de prélèvements combinés. 42% de ces prélèvements sont poly microbiens et 21% sont stériles. Les résultats bactériologiques viennent confirmer la prédominance des bactéries aérobies à Gram positif. Le taux de remplacement de l'Ertapénème est de 22% contre un taux de 50% pour l'Amoxiclav. Conclusion L'antibiothérapie ne doit être instaurée qu'en cas d'infection du pied diabétique diagnostiquée sur les critères cliniques établis par les consensus internationaux récents. Le respect des mesures de lutte contre la diffusion de la résistance bactérienne s'avère primordiale. PMID:27386024

MR imaging of the temporomandibular joint: comparison between acquisitions at 7.0 T using dielectric pads and 3.0 T

PubMed Central

Kuhn, Felix P; Spinner, Georg; Del Grande, Filippo; Wyss, Michael; Piccirelli, Marco; Erni, Stefan; Pfister, Pascal; Ho, Michael; Sah, Bert-Ram; Filli, Lukas; Ettlin, Dominik A; Gallo, Luigi M; Andreisek, Gustav

2017-01-01

Objectives: To qualitatively and quantitatively compare MRI of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) at 7.0 T using high-permittivity dielectric pads and 3.0 T using a clinical high-resolution protocol. Methods: Institutional review board-approved study with written informed consent. 12 asymptomatic volunteers were imaged at 7.0 and 3.0 T using 32-channel head coils. High-permittivity dielectric pads consisting of barium titanate in deuterated suspension were used for imaging at 7.0 T. Imaging protocol consisted of oblique sagittal proton density weighted turbo spin echo sequences. For quantitative analysis, pixelwise signal-to-noise ratio maps of the TMJ were calculated. For qualitative analysis, images were evaluated by two independent readers using 5-point Likert scales. Quantitative and qualitative results were compared using t-tests and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests, respectively. Results: TMJ imaging at 7.0 T using high-permittivity dielectric pads was feasible in all volunteers. Quantitative analysis showed similar signal-to-noise ratio for both field strengths (mean ± SD; 7.0 T, 13.02 ± 3.92; 3.0 T, 14.02 ± 3.41; two-sample t-tests, p = 0.188). At 7.0 T, qualitative analysis yielded better visibility of all anatomical subregions of the temporomandibular disc (anterior band, intermediate zone and posterior band) than 3.0 T (Wilcoxon signed-rank tests, p < 0.05, corrected for multiple comparisons). Conclusions: MRI of the TMJ at 7.0 T using high-permittivity dielectric pads yields superior visibility of the temporomandibular disc compared with 3.0 T. PMID:27704872

MR imaging of the temporomandibular joint: comparison between acquisitions at 7.0 T using dielectric pads and 3.0 T.

PubMed

Kuhn, Felix P; Spinner, Georg; Del Grande, Filippo; Wyss, Michael; Piccirelli, Marco; Erni, Stefan; Pfister, Pascal; Ho, Michael; Sah, Bert-Ram; Filli, Lukas; Ettlin, Dominik A; Gallo, Luigi M; Andreisek, Gustav; Manoliu, Andrei

2017-01-01

To qualitatively and quantitatively compare MRI of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) at 7.0 T using high-permittivity dielectric pads and 3.0 T using a clinical high-resolution protocol. Institutional review board-approved study with written informed consent. 12 asymptomatic volunteers were imaged at 7.0 and 3.0 T using 32-channel head coils. High-permittivity dielectric pads consisting of barium titanate in deuterated suspension were used for imaging at 7.0 T. Imaging protocol consisted of oblique sagittal proton density weighted turbo spin echo sequences. For quantitative analysis, pixelwise signal-to-noise ratio maps of the TMJ were calculated. For qualitative analysis, images were evaluated by two independent readers using 5-point Likert scales. Quantitative and qualitative results were compared using t-tests and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests, respectively. TMJ imaging at 7.0 T using high-permittivity dielectric pads was feasible in all volunteers. Quantitative analysis showed similar signal-to-noise ratio for both field strengths (mean ± SD; 7.0 T, 13.02 ± 3.92; 3.0 T, 14.02 ± 3.41; two-sample t-tests, p = 0.188). At 7.0 T, qualitative analysis yielded better visibility of all anatomical subregions of the temporomandibular disc (anterior band, intermediate zone and posterior band) than 3.0 T (Wilcoxon signed-rank tests, p < 0.05, corrected for multiple comparisons). MRI of the TMJ at 7.0 T using high-permittivity dielectric pads yields superior visibility of the temporomandibular disc compared with 3.0 T.